Classic/Antique Car Repair: Can i do it , or how do i do it ?????, vacuum advance, vacuum switch

Question
My thermostatic vacuum switch is broken on my 1969 Grand Prix, and I can't find a new one. So my question is can I and how do I do away with it.

Answer
The thermostatic vacuum switch was part of the early emissions controls. It controlled the vacuum to the distributor vacuum advance to provide full vacuum during cold operation to battle stalling and the then limited vacuum when warm to try to control emissions. It also sent full vacuum to the distributor vacuum advance to try to prevent overheating at idle. This engine will run very nicely if the valve is bypassed and full vacuum run to the vacuum advance. However I could be fined $10,000 for emissions tampering if I suggested that you do this. Remember when setting the timing after you have done this, to disconnect the vacuum from the distributor when aligning the timing marks and reconnect after the distributor is locked down. It is possible that the idle will be a little lumpy after you do this. If that bothers you find a port on the carburetor that will have vacuum when the engine is running over an idle but has no vacuum at idle. this is called "ported vacuum" and connect the distributor vacuum advance to that port. However if you go this route watch the engine temperature at idle when hot.