For more than two decades, Edelbrock has offered a streamlined method for helping hot rod enthusiasts boost performance and streamline tuning with their engine building. Edelbrock's Performer and Performer RPM packages feature a complete-system approach to performance, allowing bolt-on upgrades without the trial and error. Installing an Edelbrock intake manifold -- either the Performer or the Performer RPM -- is simple, and can be completed in an afternoon with a few basic tools and parts.
Drain the radiator, and remove the upper radiator hose from the existing intake manifold. Remove the thermostat housing as well. Disconnect the fuel line, the throttle linkage and the vacuum hoses from both the intake manifold and the carburetor. Unfasten the bolts attaching the carburetor to the intake manifold, and remove the carburetor.
Remove the distributor cap, and note which cylinder the rotor is pointing toward. Write it down. Remove the distributor bracket from the intake manifold, then remove the distributor. If there is an EGR valve on the existing intake manifold, remove it.
Unfasten all of the bolts lining the perimeter of the existing intake manifold and set them aside. Remove the intake manifold, and scrape off any bits of gasket that are still stuck to the ports around the cylinder heads.
Affix new intake manifold gaskets to the ports on the intake manifold. Place the Edelbrock intake manifold onto the engine, lining it by the ports on the cylinder heads. Bolt the manifold into place, and torque to 25 foot pounds with a torque wrench.
Install a new thermostat and replace the thermostat housing. Slide the distributor back into place, making sure that the rotor is still pointing to the same cylinder that it was upon removal. Replace the bracket, but do not tighten it yet.
Install a new base plate for the carburetor, then replace the carburetor. Reattach throttle linkage, fuel line and vacuum hoses. For some Performer applications, it may be necessary to install a vacuum bypass valve, especially if you are utilizing an aftermarket Carter-style carburetor.
Time the engine with a timing light, then tune the carburetor.
