I know this issue has been written about in length, however I'm trying to reconcile several sources of information while trying to adjust the mixture on my two Strombergs ('72 TR6). Note, I've replaced most of the components of the carbs with the exception of the rebuilding the bypass valves and replacing the throttle rod bushings. Timing is set, valves adjusted and carb idles are synchronized. When using the screwdriver lifting the air valves on the carbs, the RPM continues to drop on both carbs. With the engine off, I'm using the air valve adjustment tool and turning all the way clockwise to stop but the RPM drop continues. My question is if I should be returning the damper rods prior to restarting the engine and retesting by the lift method or can the engine be run and tool adjusted without the damper rods in the carbs? And, if so, is this the reason why I haven't been able to get the lifting method to work properly?