I just had my tripower system completely restored by Mike Wasson (
www.pontiactripower.com). I am absolutely thrilled with the results. I bought a "restored" original system last year for my '66 GTO. I paid TOP dollar for it. It looked great, but it never performed well. In looking for solutions and help, I was directed to Mike. He was extremely knowledgable, and helpful. He guided me through many telephone diagnoses to help locate and correct the problems I was having, mostly with poor idling and vacuum leaks. After many attempts to solve the problems myself, I finally asked Mike to rebuild/restore the complete tripower unit. I sent him all three carbs, and got them back in much quicker than expected. They were gorgeous. Appearance was outstanding, and all faulty components were replaced. Mike sealed the throttle blades on both end carbs so they operated correctly and sealed completely. Operation of the center carb is now now smooth and exact. The first time I fired up the new system, all functions worked normally and predicatble. This was the first time I could even get the engine to properly idle. Manifold vacuum was 17" Hg, and steady as a rock! I took the car out last night on the road for the first time, and was delighted again. The engine ran smooth and performed well in all gears. Cruising was a dream, especially on side streets in third. I haven't really gotten into it, but it raps up real fast to 4500 rpm like it wants to keep on going! Maybe this weekend I'll open it up.
So lessons learned, or things I'd do different--- If you're a first time tripower person, read and explore before you buy. I'd definately go to Mike's web site, and get his CD on tripowers. If I had done this first, I'd not only be better informed, I'd be a better customer knowing what to ask and what I was getting. If you have troubles, contact Mike early. He can provide advice, parts and if needed, restoration. Mike is a craftsman and a true gentleman. I highly recommend him and his services.
Schlitzman