greetings new member here, 85 f250 w/302 trying to keep daily.

[mudbag85]

First off really enjoyed the forum and how informative it has been. Bought my 85 f250 in early 2022, just got around to doing some much needed work. The pickup was motor swapped at some point from original straight six, to a 302 v8. noticed that we don't talk about 302 much here lol. swapped the 650 edlebrock avs2 4bbl for a 2100 or a800 2bbl carb still chasing vacuum leaks at the base going to attempt a better installation, any tips there would be appreciated. Ever replaced the steering lock actuator, well I just did and since I had the truck off the road decided to look into a lovely grinding from the front drivers wheel for the past week or so(about the time the new carb and radiator went in) only to find my rotor had been worn down to less than 1/8''. like i said before really enjoy the forum and appreciate it to.

[Gary Lewis]

Welcome!  Glad you joined and glad you like the forum.  

But I disagree that we don't talk about 302's very much on here.  Corey has a 302 in his Mercury pickup that he's hoping to start this weekend for the first time.  And Alex/The WeldingFords just joined and his F250 has a 302, which is rare.

Anyway, why would you go from the AVS2 to a 2100?  I'm curious as the AVS2 is a very good carb.

Also, where's home?  I ask because we have a map (Bullnose Forum/Member's Map in the menu) and we can add you with a city/state or zip.

[grumpin]

Welcome!

[mudbag85]

 I've thought and now heard it was rare. mine is an F250 with a swapped 302, don't think they even offered that motor in 85? My the choice to do the carb swap out of economics and preventative maintenance, being it still has the stock 2bbl intake(stock everything just about). I had no issues what so ever with the avs2 beside it wasn't best suited for my truck or its needs, I was experiencing fouler plugs, and very gassy oil which led me to believed I was pushing gas past rings, 2100 seemed like a great economy choice for myself but have yet to get it inline, could be the carb style itself? manufacture? or deeper issues as we lay up at night thinking about. Other carb choice was a holley street avenger 350-390?(cant remember)cfm 2bbl, went with the obvious cheaper option to start of with. I could have been all wrong Ol'cat I bought the truck from may have been onto something with the 4bbl on a 2bbl. Open to thought and suggestions.  

[mudbag85]

also home is Stanfield OR 97875 if you would add me to the map please and thank you

[Gary Lewis]

The 302 was offered in the "light duty" F250's, the ones below 8500 GVWR.  In early 85 the 302 came with a carb and in late 85 it came with EFI.  My guess is that you have an early 85.

And it sounds like the AVS wasn't properly tuned.  I hope the 2100 is closer.