1953 Ford Customline with a Stock Flathead V8 with Offenhauser intake. I have a 1955 Holley that was leaking. Had it re-built by a reputable carb guy, but when I hooked it back up it is leaking around the base, with a new gasket and all. Is also leaking at the point where the fuel line comes in as well as another spot. Why? Any ideas would help. What carb should I replace it with? Was told a 390 CFM. But need a adapter (i think) Do I need a vacuum secondary, etc? HELP!
This is a Holley 4 barrel with most of the works on top, or the semi modern one with a float bowl on each end?
No kidding....I have never built a carb for either myself or somebody else that still leaked when I was done. It seems like he did you worse than what you had from the start.
It is the old kind with the works on top. Had it done at Fuel Curve West told by a guy here to take it there. Possible too much pressure all of a sudden?
If you are talking a Ford 94 Holley 2 barrel he might have used the wrong gasket on the power valve? 2 come in the kits.
I use my Holley carbs for door stops and wall art. I got tired of them constantly needing to be rebuilt and usually because of blown power valves and internal vacuum leaks. Take the base plate off and run a straight edge over the flat surface of the carb body or base (whichever is machined flat with no raised lip) If not flat then file flat. The leaking should stop. Expect to repeat this proceedure several times over the course of the carbs use. You will eventually wise up and replace the Holley leak o matic carb.
When you say "leaks", do you mean fuel or vacuum? The Holley 4000 (teapot) has a damper spring under the float that ***ists the closing of the needle valve by the float when the bowl is full. An over filled bowl will spill fuel out of all kinds of places. Especially down the accellerator pump shaft. As far as leaks from the fuel inlet, make sure there's a gasket under the fitting that threads into the bowl. Hope this helps. The Holley 4000 isn't a horrible carburetor if you take the time to understand it!
Stay away from experts, GET A SHOP MANUAL, dis***emble while VERY carefully laying everything out in order. Be sure you understand and follow the float setting instructions, and pay close attention to every gasket and how it seats. Lots of gaskets in these, and Holley seems to have had a lot of faith in gaskets...they liked to have lots of openings and joints below fuel level dependent on them. Most leaks do not require sophisticated carb knowledge, just a little intelligent attention to gasket seating. Someone did something dumb or sloppy in there...dive in and fi**it.
Bruce is right on the money, do it youself and learn as you do.When and if you have a question ask someone for advise or post right here. Dont be afraid to tackle it yourself save money , gain experience and pay youself to learn.
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