Stromberg Questions

jack orchard

Senior Member
I know nothing about Stromberg carbs. I recently read that a 81 flows 125 CFM, a 97 flows 155 CFM, and a 48 flows 170 CFM. Is this correct? If a 97 has a .97" venturi, does an 81 measure .81"? Then what are they measuring on the 48 to get 170 CFM? If the venturi on a 48 is not .48", then what does the 48 mean? If it is true that a 48 flows 170 CFM, then why doesn't everyone run 48s? Why did the Stromberg folks decide to retool to make new 97s instead of 48s?
I would appreciate any clarification. Many Thanks to all...jack
 
The 48 was linked to Ford's part number scheme for their 1935 models. Same as 40 was to 33/34. After that Stromberg used venturi size to designate their model number.
 
Two opening statements, followed by six questions and one closing statement... Jeeez!
Q-1: Correct, give or take.
Q-2: 7/8" or .8750".
Q-3: 1-1/32" or 1.0312". (Venturi).
Q-4: JM said it.
Q-5: Ask the guys who run 97's.
Q-6: Ask the guys who run 97's.
There's five minutes of my life I'll never get back :D.
I know nothing about Stromberg carbs. I recently read that a 81 flows 125 CFM, a 97 flows 155 CFM, and a 48 flows 170 CFM. Is this correct? If a 97 has a .97" venturi, does an 81 measure .81"? Then what are they measuring on the 48 to get 170 CFM? If the venturi on a 48 is not .48", then what does the 48 mean? If it is true that a 48 flows 170 CFM, then why doesn't everyone run 48s? Why did the Stromberg folks decide to retool to make new 97s instead of 48s?
I would appreciate any clarification. Many Thanks to all...jack
 
Simple the 48 owners were complaining of poor gas mileage so ford had a smaller version made the 97. ken ct.
 
Both model 40 (nearly extinct!) and 48 had .48 jets in the normal altitude ones, but I think the part number prefix is the likely source. Many 48's have tiny 48 designations cast in on main body and top right above where the "97" circle was on later carbs, presumably so parts guy didn't get into trouble. It's right where the equivalent "67" prefix was put on early Ford 97's...everyone forgot about that and used the 97, because it could be seen from across the room!
 
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