Tillotson float level

[Redbird]

The top of my Tillotson is a little warped on the inboard side. Can I just bend the float to lower the fuel level? Which way do you bend the float? Up or Down? Is there a video or schematic showing how it is done? I just replaced the gas shutoff with one from Bratton's.

 

[burner31]

It's a common occurrence for the top half of a tilly to end up warped over time.
How I fixed mine:
I completely disassembled the carb, taking off everything I possibly could, using C-clamps I seated the top to the bottom half, and then stuck it in the oven, 350-400, for at least an hour, using mits I snugged down the clamps, (don't over tighten) continued heating for another hour.
Turn off oven and let cool completely, in the oven. This is an important step, let it cool slowly, don't rush this part.
As for the float, once you get it back together with the float installed on the top half of the carb, turn the top half so the float is facing up, adjust so as the top of the float is one inch above the flange where the gasket would sit.
Make sure the float is level after you make this adjustment (this is important)
And that's all there is to it, solved my leaky carb problem, hope it helps you.
I'm not 100% on the oven temps, (I am getting up there in age) may want to let some others chime in on that.

 

[DANA BIZZELL]

Look in search forum for leaking Tillotson

 

[Redbird]

My main question is. Which way do you bend the float to have less gas in the bowl. Less than one inch or more than one inch?

 

[katy]

My main question is. Which way do you bend the float to have less gas in the bowl. Less than one inch or more than one inch?

More

 

[burner31]

Bending it 1 1/4 inch above the gasket face will give you less gas in the bowl.
But it does not fix your problem.

 

[Redbird]

Wouldn't a lower fuel level stop gas from leaking at shutdown, and therefore no dripping on the floor?

 

[burner31]

If you make it 1 1/4 inch it will sit lower in the bowl resulting in less fuel in the bowl.
But your problem is not the float level...its the warp.
Lowering the float level will open up new problems you.
If you really want to fix the problem fix the warp.
Just my humble opinion

 

[Patrick L.]

These critters tend to wear a dimple in the float arm. Sand/polish it smooth. Adjust the float arm carefully beyond the needle.

 

[Redbird]

A friend gave me an old Tillotson and it was warped. I tried the cookie baking option above and it worked. Appears all-square now and put in a new kit. Now to try it and do the same to the old Tillotson.

 

[burner31]

Taa-daa

 

[Redbird]

I took it for a drive this morning. 40*. fired right up. Also baked the old one, straightened it out and back together for a spare. I need to open a Model A bakery, but I don't think my wife would go for it.