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Old 09-01-2019, 10:22 AM   #1
JayChicago
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Default Carb Deterioration

Follow-up: A few weeks ago I posted that I suddenly could not get my built flathead with a Holley to idle. Only way to keep it running was to keep pumping the accelerator pump. I assumed the carb idle circuit was blocked. I finally got time to rebuild the carb, and I think I now know how it got blocked.

Appears the carb's white metal casting is being eaten away, introducing a granular waste product into the gasoline. What do you guys know / think about this phenomena?

See pics. attached. First pic shows initial find, a pasty substance in the float bowl. Second pic shows it after gasoline has evaporated, leaving a granular residue behind. Third pic shows the metal deterioration.

A Chemical-knowledgeable friend speculates that it's caused by the ethanol in today's gas holding H2O. Would be especially hard on a car that sits for long periods, allowing gas in carb to evaporate. My car has that history with the previous owner.
Attached Images
File Type: jpg primary float bowl 3.jpg (29.1 KB, 93 views)
File Type: jpg primary float bowl 2.jpg (30.2 KB, 94 views)
File Type: jpg primary float bowl 1.jpg (42.1 KB, 98 views)
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Old 09-01-2019, 11:07 AM   #2
19Fordy
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Default Re: Carb Deterioration

What you suggest makes sense. I too run a Holley 390.
Before filling up add some STABIL and Marvel Mystery Oil.
I found that to help when a car sits for a month or two or longer.
Very important to start you car and let it reach operating temp. at least once a week.
Is there a place near you that sells non-ethanol gas?
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Old 09-01-2019, 11:41 AM   #3
JSeery
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Default Re: Carb Deterioration

Ethanol
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Old 09-01-2019, 12:48 PM   #4
supereal
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Default Re: Carb Deterioration

I agree, Today, there is ethanol in all gas, even when the pump says not. Gas pumps usually handle several grades, and if the user ahead used gasohol, what ever remained in the pump and hose goes into your vehicle first. The published switch to E-15 (15%) alcohol will make the problem worse. It is highly corrosive to systems later than the year 2000. Any preventive additives simply dilute the fuel.
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Old 09-01-2019, 02:23 PM   #5
51woodie
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Default Re: Carb Deterioration

One fellow in our club had the same concern about cross contamination at the pump, so he takes a 2 gallon (lawn mower) can with him when he fills his 'stock '48. He fills the 2 gallon, then fills up the car.
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Old 09-01-2019, 09:52 PM   #6
JSeery
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Default Re: Carb Deterioration

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Our pumps have the non-ethanol totally separate, separate hose, nozzle, etc. I've never seen a combined setup, but that would be odd.
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