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Hi guys. I just bought an '81 Vette and when I looked under the hood I noticed that it didn't have an air pump on it. The pollution pipes are still there on the exhaust but they're just capped at the top of the main pipe on both sides. I wasn't sure if the pump also provided vacuum? I ask this because the headlights won't go up and I was wondering if that may be tied in with that. I'm guessing maybe not because I did see a vacuum canister in the fender well. I have NO experience with the Vette' headlight system but I do know that they run on vacuum. When I hit the little button under the dash they did want to go up. Now I can't get them back down. Can someone tell me where to start as far as vacuum issues are concerned? Is there a vacuum line diagram that I can access online or maybe here at this site? Any help would be appreciated. Thanks in advance, George
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You don't need the air pump for vac. Sounds like a couple of different issues with the headlights. Most likely your switch if they will go up with the override but not the switch. If they will not go down it could be bad relays. You can release them by reaching under and tugging on the hinged rod that is in the center of each once it breaks over they will drop on their own. There are diagrams and I am sure someone will post one or PM it to you. 71Shark 2008-03-09 20:47:27
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Send PMGreensburg, IN - USA
Joined: 9/24/2003
Posts: 5387
Vette(s): Previous: 1984 Coupe, 1988 Maroon Coupe, 1989 Coupe, 2001 Roadster Present: 1967 Stingray Roadster, 1976 Stingray Coupe, 1989 Roadster..
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Send PMLanoka Harbor, NJ - USA
Joined: 12/21/2006
Posts: 2191
Vette(s): 1975 metallic blue coupe with t-tops,L48, t/t steering, black leather interior. 1990 L98, white/red leather interior, auto,a/c
tux gave you the best troubleshooting guide anywhere plus it's free. better than any manual around.
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Been running without mine for months now. No troubles. (I don't have to pass emmissions inspection anymore---over 25 years old in VA.)
Really helps open the engine bay up by ridding it of not just the pump, but all the mounting hardware and accompanying plumbing to the injection points. Easier to service the AC compressor. I even got rid of my fan and its huge cowling when I installed an electric fan kit. Even more room. Now there's nothing up front on the block except PS, alt, AC, and water pump. One less belt. Removed it's pulley, too. I can see in there now! Hey! It's an engine! Will wonders never cease?
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Send PMMounds View, MN - USA
Joined: 5/24/2007
Posts: 1034
Vette(s): 70 LT1 coupe, 69 350 HP coupe, 69 390HP 427 coupe, 71 LS5 convert, 85 coupe, 93 coupe
If they TRY to open with the manual valve, it sounds like not enough vacuum to raise or lower them. The most common problem is old, leaky hoses. It might be a good investment to buy a hose replacement kit first, then spray all over the system with starter fluid to test for leaks.
I'm betting that will solve your problem.
Larry
I'm betting that will solve your problem.
Larry
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in Forum: C3 HVAC, Fuel, Emissions, and Exhaust
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