i have a center section that i removed the butterflys and shaft and capped the ends if it will help you

Most of my driving is in town with occasional freeway driving. I seldom go over 3000 rpm. If i were to remove the valves what would it do to my fuel economy. What is i were to wire the valves closed and rtv the small leak in the front.

You likely wouldn't notice much difference at all if you removed the shaft and butterfly valves. There's disagreement on here if some people can even tell when the system is fully functioning. I doubt gas mileage would be affected much, if at all.

I'd vote against wiring the lever to the shut position, although that is the low speed setting. They'd still be in position to vibrate enough that I'd worry about the screws in the butterfly plates backing out.

I'm about "this" close to just scanning my schematic for new bushings and making it public. Doesn't sound like I have the resources behind me to get production going.

John B.

Do you mean using the old bushings to having replacement ones made? <img src="/forums/images/graemlins/confused.gif" alt="" />

I am thinking the same thing and even have a used throttle body I got from another engine.

I've already done the work, Ray. I have a technical schematic for making more, measured down to the ten thousandths of an inch. I just can't find a reliable source for making them. I'd love to have Delrin material used, but the prototype set in my truck was made from an aluminum-bronze alloy.

John B.

I have an extra plenum to redo as well. Just need more bushings.

John B.

JohnB

I wonder if THIS would be worthwhile to look into? Looks like a free quote. I'd be willing to chip in to get some made and on hand for future repairs. Since I'm still running stock bushings in my intake, I'm going to want to R&R this thing before too long.

Excellent. I will contact them.

John B.

I am going to pull the plenum Saturday and get some measurements on the bushings and see if i cant make some or get them local. If i can't i will try to find a way to block the shaft opening temporarily and remove the shaft and butterfly valves until i can afford to replace it. That vacuum leak is driving me crazy. If i find some and it is successful i will let you know where and what size i found.

You can. This is what carlos (cap510) has done on his rig IIRC.