Another weekend and more head scratchers

kursed30

kursed30

Member
Well another weekend in the books with the A. It has now been a month or so since I started trying to get this old dog on the road. Since that time I have cleaned the tank, new fuel valve with filter, installed new fuel float, new fuel sediment bowl, cleaned the carb up, new switch on the starter, fixed exhaust leak, installed new header gaskets and replaced an innertube. After all this, she made her maiden voyage (for me anyway) around the block a few times. I was hoping that would be it...nope. lol

Every time I run it for more then 5 minutes I get a loud back fire when turning it off, I noticed some smoke coming from just above the carb (couldn't find exact spot) appeared to be maybe some light smoke around the water pump and lower engine area and the outside of the radiator gets really hot. I did notice a little bit of gas coming from the back of the carb as well.
 
Shut down the fuel before you turn it off and let it idle until the fuel in the line is gone. Once you hear it start to slow down, shut off the key. Try that to see if it helps.

Also, have you timed it?
 
I have not timed it but I have had a few of the car club guys stop by while it was running and they never mentioned it so I figured it was fine.
 
First, I would time the car.

Second, I would check for leaks around the intake and carb. You can use wd40 but I prefer to use propane(unlit). If the rpms increase you have a leak.

Third, I would check the float level. You should have 5/8" of an inch and this is done with this tool.

Fourth, where do you have your gav set? Close it, then open it 1 turn, and start from there.

https://www.snydersantiqueauto.com/...FUEL-LEVEL-GAUGE?fromCategory=SearchByKeyword

Don't bend the float tabs to get your 5/8", use float shim kits.
 
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I assume you have the Zenith carburetor. There is a good site for this carburetor at http://model-a.org/default.html. It has some problem solving advice and some instructions for normal procedures. The site has detailed instructions on how to set your timing. Make sure the points are adjusted correctly first, which you probably have already done.
 
Were are you running the spark lever during these around the block trips, and pull your spark lever up some when shutting it down.
A timing and points check would be good as advised
Might want to clean your plugs up too, seaform or MMO in the fuel tank can help with any sticky The more you run it the better it will get
 
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