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When it comes to tuning a carbureted engine, choosing the right carburetor can make all the difference in drivability, throttle response, and overall power output. Two of the most popular options from Edelbrock are the 1406 and the 1906, both highly regarded by performance enthusiasts and weekend builders alike. If you're trying to decide between these two options, understanding their differences in design, features, installation, and tuning is essential.
This guide compares the Edelbrock 1406 vs 1906 to help you choose the right carb for your project.
Design and Features: Edelbrock 1406 vs 1906
Edelbrock 1406
The Edelbrock 1406 is a 600 CFM four-barrel carburetor designed for street use. Built with a lightweight aluminum body, it resists warping and heat soak. This model uses a vacuum secondary system and features an electric choke for easier cold starts.
Notable features include:
- Two-piece aluminum construction
- Rear-pivot floats and tub-style bowls for stable fuel delivery
- Electric choke for street-friendly drivability
- Metering rods (no power valves) for backfire resistance
- Great out-of-the-box tuning for fuel economy and reliability
The 1406 is ideal for small block street engines and is often favored by those restoring classic vehicles or upgrading their daily drivers.
Edelbrock 1906
The Edelbrock 1906 is part of the AVS2 Series and is rated at 650 CFM, making it a better fit for moderate performance builds. It shares the same quality aluminum construction as the 1406 but includes a satin finish for a cleaner look under the hood.
Key differences:
- AVS (Adjustable Valve Secondary) design for tunable secondary opening rates
- Annular flow boosters for improved fuel atomization
- Eight equally spaced orifices per booster to reduce hesitation
- Electric choke and four-barrel layout for enhanced throttle response
The 1906 is a better match for engines with higher airflow demands or drivers who want to squeeze out extra performance without going to a full race carb.
Installation and Tuning Differences
Edelbrock 1406
Installation of the 1406 is beginner-friendly. It’s compatible with most square-bore intake manifolds and includes basic adjustability for idle speed and mixture. Tuning is simple with Edelbrock’s calibration kits, and the vacuum secondaries help maintain consistent throttle response without constant readjustment.
Perfect for:
- Mild street builds
- Budget-conscious restorers
- First-time carburetor users
Edelbrock 1906
The 1906 offers more tunability but is slightly more complex to install. Because of its increased airflow capacity and annular boosters, tuning should be done with precision.
Ideal for:
- Mid to high-performance builds
- Tuners who want precise control
- Classic muscle cars with upgraded internals
Value and Cost Comparison
When considering the Edelbrock 1406 vs 1906 in terms of cost and value, both are competitively priced within their categories. The 1406 typically costs less and delivers great drivability and efficiency, making it a strong value for everyday use. The 1906 carries a slightly higher price tag but justifies it with improved performance, better fuel atomization, and added adjustability.
Choose the 1406 if:
- You're restoring a stock or lightly modified vehicle
- You want simplicity and reliability
- You're on a tighter budget
Choose the 1906 if:
- You want better throttle response and more horsepower
- Your engine demands higher airflow
- You're experienced in tuning
Final Thoughts
In the Edelbrock 1406 vs 1906 debate, the right choice depends on your build goals. The 1406 is simple, affordable, and reliable for daily driving and classic restorations. The 1906 delivers more performance with modern enhancements like annular boosters and adjustable secondaries for fine-tuned control.
No matter which you choose, both carburetors represent Edelbrock’s commitment to American-made quality and proven performance.
Ready to upgrade your fuel system? Shop Edelbrock 1406 and 1906 carburetors at JEGS for fast shipping, expert tech support, and all the components you need to complete your build. Call 1-800-345-4545 if you need help choosing the right carburetor or tuning your setup.
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