The inspection is a very good idea. Unfortunately, there seem to be no expert mechanics on the 140 series around here. I can't remember ever having seen another 142\144 in the 10 years I've owned the car. I've had a number of mechanics refuse to do even straightforward repairs on this car. The ones that I have found that work on them a little are specailists in one area (ie brakes, etc.).

I rebuilt most of the brake system, and had the Zenith carbs rebuilt. I plan on having new ball joints and tie rods installed. I had not thought about bent wheels - I'll have to check into that.

My primary problem is that the car does not want to rev much past 4500 rpm without making a whole lot of racket. It has always smoothly and strongly accelerated to 4000 rpm on all four gears (no o\d on car). Even in neutral, once it approaches 5000 rpm it sounds like its going to break\explode if I don't ease off the gas. I know from old web commercials\videos and old Road & Track reviews what the noise level is supposed to be on this model at high speed, and it certainly ain't this.

The plugs, plug wires, and dizzy parts are new, and valve lash has been adjusted. I know that originally my car was supposed to go at least 6000 rpm before requiring a gear change.

Is it possible that blockage\buildup in the manifold or exhaust system is causing this? How about bad timing, u-joints, or a faulty coil wire?

Many thanks for your input!