The previous owner rigged a makeshift throttle return spring setup. It was not period correct and often failed to return to the correct idle position. We installed the correct NOS configuration. It functions properly now.

After fixing the exhaust pipe and flange alignment we discovered the major exhaust leak. It turned out to be a missing bolt on the lower exhaust manifold assembly. Don’t know if we missed it on the rebuild or it worked it’s way out, probably the former!

The problem with the exhaust alignment turned out to be a misaligned exhaust flange on the down pipe from the manifold. Just an eight of an inch can through the hole assembly off requiring too much force on the joints. After replacing the pipe everything lined up correctly.