'54 Vette Carbs leaking after shutdown

[Robert Albright]

Have just got thru restoring my 54 Vette, and after the engine has been running and then shut off, gas drips out the inlet on the Carter YH side draft carbs for a short time. I have put new kits in, changed needle and seats and lowered the float level (from what the specs call for), but this still occurs. It doesn't do it very long, but is still dangerous as the exhaust pipes are just below.

I have an idea the gas is expanding after shut down due to heat, but how do I stop it, except setting the floats lower yet? Any one else have this problem on the side draft carbs, and any suggestions?

Thanks, Robert

[Roy B.]

Re: '54 Vette Carbs leaking after shutdown

In the Oooold days we used Corvair kits that the Spider Turbo used (same Carb) has a rubber nose needle and spring loaded , where as the Corvette was solid brass needle. Stop all the leaks on the many 54 Corvettes I had, try them you'll like it.

[mike mccagh]

Re: '54 Vette Carbs leaking after shutdown

as Roy notes, springs to assist the needle to its seat , is the cure. rebuild kits from Carter usually have the springs. i'm indifferent as to whether the brass or neoprene-tipped needles are used. just make sure you get and use the assist springs. mike

[Robert Pelland]

Re: '54 Vette Carbs leaking after shutdown

Years ago there was an article in one of the issues of the " Restorer " that offered a simple solution that would help to eliminate the leak problem. It explained that the problem could be solved by drilling two very small holes in the metal section of the pumps diaphram. Then, upon shut down, the pressure would be released back into the fuel line, rather then remain built up in the carbs.

For the life of me I can't find the copy, so you might want to do a search.

[Clem Z.]

we did that with the early V-8s with 2X4 carbs

for the same reason to prevented them from flooding when you shut off the engine. the holes are .015 dia. you can do this with any take apart fuel pump.