I'm very close to starting my 425/SP. I'm trying to figure out how to make the SP work without alot of the factory equipment (gone when I got the car). Is there a way to make it work manually? Any pitfalls to look out for before starting? I've fired many engines (SBC's), but, never a NH. I know to prime the oil pump, I've got all new ignition parts, and maybe a rebuilt carb. Also, how do I know if my water pump is still good. The car ran when I got it, and I drove it so I know it was good then. Would it go bad just sitting there? I'll also accept any tricks of the trade for the experts. Thanks.
working the switch pitch without factory stuff I made my own switches and bracket from parts I got at the electrical store. The easy thing to do is get a couple of the mini limit switches from an electronics store, bracket the switch pitch so that when the throttle is all the way closed, it hits the top one. Set up the other one so that when the throttle linkage passes almost Wide Open Throttle it kicks in the passing gear. You need the power source from the harness (Easy to find) and 2 long wires to reach the transmission. It is easy. I can get a couple of pictures for you in a day or so. I am not near the car right now. The second way is to run a wire from the brake pedal switch to the trans on the SP side so that it is 12volts when the brake pedal is depressed. the trans will switch to high stall until you let up but even then it works pretty well. I did this for a short time while I built my Switches. You will like the car much better with the Switch Pitch working.
I used nitrous activation microswitches on the last car I installed a s-p 400 trans into, the switch looks similar to this: Use 2 of these, attached and wired as stated above. These switches can be found in any decent speed shop and even some pep boys locations.
