Hello everyone,

I have a 72 Buick Skylark, 350/4bbl. I put in a 200R-4 (with the help of various people on this site...thank you all). The milage is greatly improved and everything worked out well.

I've noticed that the trans will not down shift when the accelerator is punched on the highway. I have the lock up remotely hooked since there's no computer.

Also, it seems that the engine just doesn't have the take off power it once did. Is this because of the change of gears?

Any help for this soldier?

The first gear ratio is better in the 200R4, not worse. Therefore, something seems wrong.

Are you ABSOLUTELY sure that the TV cable is adjusted properly? If it isn't, that tranny might last 100 miles.

The reason I mention the TV cable is that it could be partially responsible for both symptoms.

-Bob Cunningham

Thanks Bob,

Here's what I've done: I was told to put the carb in full throttle, then back up the cable adjuster until there's no play. Does that sound about right? If not, do you know the best way to adjust the cable? Eeven then, the gear won't kick down.

On a different note, what's your take on MSD's? I have a Pertronix ignitor instead of points and thinking about first going with a 40,000 volt coil, then MSD. I have 6 volts coming to the coil now. I figure this is where my power problem might be.

Thanks again.

Can anyone give me their view? What's your take on MSD's? I have a Pertronix ignitor instead of points and thinking about first going with a 40,000 volt coil, then MSD. I have 6 volts coming to the coil now. I figure this is where a power problem I'm having might be.

I personally do not care for the Pertronix . I run points to trigger my MSD, and it really works well. Points are good to 6000RPM, and most Buick engines are done by 5600, so why use Pertronix?
What convertor are you using in your 200-4R? I have one in my 72 GS with a corvette convertor, and it works GREAT!!

As far as I know, the original convertor that came in the 200-R4. I think it's a 12", but really don't know.

I notice that when I punch the excelerator, black smoke come out in plumes. I figure there not enough spark to burn all that raw gas. Could this be true (hence my want for a stronger coil)?

Does anyone know where I can get a wire and vacuum diagram for my 72 Skylark?

Hi Roy, if your car is smoking like that its most likely the carb is running too rich (too much fuel/air). The stronger spark won't help enough to burn all that gas.
Ebay may yield a Service Manual for the '72 that will help with the wiring and vacuum lines!

Thanks Ted.

I have no idea why it does that. Only when I punch the gas at WOT. I check the carb screws.

I'll check ebay.