Customs Carter WCFB carb question

I have a 289 Studebaker motor with the original Carter WCFB on it. I'd like to replace it with a new carburetor. But not really sure what would be a suitable replacement. The bolt pattern is 5¾ x 4¼. Any help would be greatly appreciated.

 

No help with a replacement, but Carter WCFB's are rebuildable. That's what I'd do.

 

When the WCFB is right, it's the perfect carb for your Stude; as mentioned they're rebuildable.

The current 600 CFM Edelbrocks have a dual bolt pattern which will fit your intake; you'll have to change the throttle linkage, fuel line, air filter base and grind the bottom of the carb linkage.

 

can do edlebrock but not necessarily a good idea--the wcfb is super solid when right, a top shelf rebuild might bring it back. If you're unsure of yourself, consult a good carb guy (preferably old one) and see what it would take--maybe let him do it.

 

I like them…they are tunable and work great. IMO they need an insulator plate below them because of today’s fuel blend.

 

Nothing wrong with the WCFB, I've always had good luck with them. Running two of them on the Cad 331 in my roadster now. Several sources for kits are out there and they're no harder to work on than any other carb...

@carbking is a good resource for these things

 

The WCFB is a really good carb, and probably the very best choice for your Studebaker. The mid-50's Studebaker version flowed a bit less than 300 CFM. Take a look at the SMALLEST new 4-barrels you can find, and then rebuild your WCFB.

The most difficult issue in rebuilding a WCFB is convincing yourself that your can do it.

Rebuilding kits, and most other parts are readily available.

Jon

 

I sent the WCFB on my Avanti to a fella that did a beautiful job cleaning it up with new plating and such, but sumthin bout it ain’t right tho. Have plans to send it to Bob at Competition Carburetion in Reno for a tune up. He’s got me straightened out before

 

Thanks everyone for all the tips. It looks like we're going to try rebuilding it. I haven't been on here in about 17 years (had a '61 Comet back then). Great resource, this board.

 

I had mine on my 64 impala rebuilt a few years ago by an old guy in Manchester nh. Came out great.

 

Hot Heads, and probably others, sell a squeeze plate that necks down to the OEM bore size if bores in the intake can't be opened up.

 

Odd, as all Avanti were originally equipped with the Carter AFB.

jack vines

 

Correct again Jack! Had to go out and check what was on the neglected ol girl. Either way, it’s off for a tune up soon