Carb rebuild or just buy a new one?

[Dave Dubrough]

Hi, I have a 65 v8 with a 2 barrel carb. It is in dire need of some help. I've never rebuilt a carb before so I am afraid to tackle this. I bought a great DVD from power building videos on carburetors and how to rebuild them, but it is mainly on all kinds of performance carbs, and this thing is far from anything they showed. I do have some mechanical skills but I am no mechanic. Should I try it or should I just go down and buy another one? Any help would be great. Thanks!

 

[65ShelbyClone]

What brand and model is it?

 

[D.Hearne]

The big thing about a carb rebuild is making sure it is completely clean before you reassemble it. All the internal passages must be free of dirt, gum and trash. It's worth a try. You've either got an Autolite or Holley 2bbl there, both are simple carbs to rebuild, the Autolite being the more simple, but in my experience, the harder to get it right in making it work.

 

[Mustang Jim]

I've rebuilt the autolite carb on my v8 several times over the last three decades and it is not at all difficult. You will need to pick up the correct rebuild kit and some carb cleaner. Once disassembled, everything needs to be carefully cleaned as Hearne said earlier. Take your time adjusting the float as that can be a bit tricky. Also, make sure you adjust the accelerator pump properly. Rebuilding a carb is not difficult and you will be satisfied with your results if you take your time, have the right rebuild kit and instructions. Rebuild kits are alot cheaper than a new carb.

 

[Dave Dubrough]

It's an old Autolite carb. I think I'll just stick this old thing on the shelf and put a little Edelbrock 500 cfm on it and call it good. Thanks for the tips guys.

 

[D.Hearne]

If you don't want to swap intakes, you can replace the Autolite directly with either of Holley's 2 bbl carbs. They make a 350 cfm and a 500 cfm. Both are bolt on replacements for the Autolite with only a minor reroute of the fuel line to the carb.