Technical Carb leak

[Kiltedboarder]

Hi all
Went to start the car today as weather is good. Would not start and then I smelt guel

Had a look and I see fuel dripping out top of carb and into the small tray

Car was running fine before einter

Any ideas or thoughts?

Thanks

 

[the green vanper]

Hello,

Ignition?

The engine needs three things: fuel, spark and air. Fuel is there. Checking air supply should be easy, so the more complicated part is the ignition.

 

[Kiltedboarder]

Thanks, but more worried about why I have a fuel leak. Fixing the starting will be the next issue to overcome

 

[Goldnrust]

If the car was running fine before, it could be something simple like a stuck needle valve that controls flow of fuel into the carb. It only takes a small bit of dirt, or gummy old fuel to get it stuck.

Try tapping lightly on the side and top of the carb with the end of a spanner, this might knock it free.

If not it seems likely you’ll need to remove the carb, take it apart and give it a thorough cleaning.

 

[Kiltedboarder]

Thanks, I think the carb is due a good cleaning out, I’ve got cleaned and a gasket kit so will get it done and hope that’s why it was leaking. Thanks again

 

[the hobbler]

Thanks, I think the carb is due a good cleaning out, I’ve got cleaned and a gasket kit so will get it done and hope that’s why it was leaking. Thanks again

Also, check the float when you have the carb stripped---it is not uncommon for these to slowly fill with fuel, which makes them sink to the bottom of the float chamber and therefore stop shutting-off the needle valve. Modern fuel will attack solder (the 500 float is a brass float, soldered together) If, when you gently shake the float it "rattles", it will have fuel in it. It is practically impossible to get the fuel out and repair the (probably the VERY small) hole that is allowing the fuel to enter the float. Fit a new float (they are not very expensive)