stripped float bowl fuel inlet Holley R3810/4160

[Gary H.]

I have a stripped float bowl fuel inlet on original Holley R3810/4160 and I'm stumped. I hope this image shows the problem. The thread in the float bowl filter side are completely stripped. Any suggestions? Thanks

[Jack H.]

Re: stripped float bowl fuel inlet Holley R3810/4160

I think you have a few options...

The best option in my opinion is to get a donor bowl from another 4160 carb.

The other less desirable options include:

a) I think thread repair kits (heli-coils) are available for that application and may work, but the kit is fairly expensive in that size. I actually like inserts (Time-serts) better, but there isn't enough wall thickness for those here.

b) Get an oversize inlet fitting (look up Dorman 55124 as an example, not sure its the right application, but you get the idea).

c) If in a crunch, use "JB Weld" to temporarily fix it knowing that the next time you want to replace the filter, you have a problem...or if not concerned about originality, then run an inline fuel filter instead and remove the inlet filter.

On a prized Corvette, I'd vote for finding a donor bowl.

[Gary H.]

Re: stripped float bowl fuel inlet Holley R3810/4160

I think you have a few options...

The best option in my opinion is to get a donor bowl from another 4160 carb.

The other less desirable options include:

a) I think thread repair kits (heli-coils) are available for that application and may work, but the kit is fairly expensive in that size. I actually like inserts (Time-serts) better, but there isn't enough wall thickness for those here.

b) Get an oversize inlet fitting (look up Dorman 55124 as an example, not sure its the right application, but you get the idea).

c) If in a crunch, use "JB Weld" to temporarily fix it knowing that the next time you want to replace the filter, you have a problem...or if not concerned about originality, then run an inline fuel filter instead and remove the inlet filter.

On a prized Corvette, I'd vote for finding a donor bowl.

I ordered one of those Dorman plugs. Yea, I thought about the epoxy until I sobered up. What I think I'll do is order one of these on eBay https://www.ebay.com/itm/HOLLEY-CARB...40169#shpCntId so I can drive without any more carburetor problems. And, if the Dorman thingy doesn't work out... I have the original rebuilt. You can never have enough carburetors.

[Joe L.]

Re: stripped float bowl fuel inlet Holley R3810/4160

I ordered one of those Dorman plugs. Yea, I thought about the epoxy until I sobered up. What I think I'll do is order one of these on eBay https://www.ebay.com/itm/HOLLEY-CARB...40169#shpCntId so I can drive without any more carburetor problems. And, if the Dorman thingy doesn't work out... I have the original rebuilt. You can never have enough carburetors.

Gary------


The Heli-Coil repair kit is expensive and far too expensive for a "1 use only" repair. Plus, it really takes some experience to use it properly. However, you can send the bowl to a carb restorer that already has the kit AND has developed the expertise to use it properly. The finished repair is very good and renders the fuel bowl inlet threads "immortal". Most of the carb restorers will have this kit as your problem is FAR from unusual.

I do not recommend the self-tapping repair fittings.

[Gary H.]

Re: stripped float bowl fuel inlet Holley R3810/4160

Gary------


The Heli-Coil repair kit is expensive and far too expensive for a "1 use only" repair. Plus, it really takes some experience to use it properly. However, you can send the bowl to a carb restorer that already has the kit AND has developed the expertise to use it properly. The finished repair is very good and renders the fuel bowl inlet threads "immortal". Most of the carb restorers will have this kit as your problem is FAR from unusual.

I do not recommend the self-tapping repair fittings.

I agree. Self tapping was making me nervous. Just found and ordered this this BOWL - fuel, front (primary), Holley #3810, 3811, 3814 & 3815, w/o provision for float adjustment, as original on chicagocorvette.net. And I did order this HOLLEY CARB,Chev Corvette,327,1967,New on eBay. And Lars in CO will remachine the original bowl housing. Yep. That'll do it.

[Richard G.]

Re: stripped float bowl fuel inlet Holley R3810/4160

Herold is the restorer I used for carbs.
He charges $45.00 + the shipping to repair the threads in a Holley.
He can be reached at chucknorbid@gmail.com
A straight shooter with experience in such repairs.
I see you found the part.
Might consider Herold if you ever want to get your original repaired as a spare?

Rick

[John D.]

Re: stripped float bowl fuel inlet Holley R3810/4160

I put a brand new 3810 on my 67 350 hp last year and the car ran great right out of the box. My only regret is that I didn't do it years ago.