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.
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.
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