Index
Figure Index
Rochester "BC" One barrel
Rochester "2GC" Two barrel
Carter "WCFB" Four barrel
Fuel pump
Air cleaner
Trouble and remedies
Fuel system specifications
Figure Index
Fig. 1 - Carburetor Cross Section
Fig. 2 - Fast Idle Cam
Fig. 3 - Idle Speed and Mixture Adjustment
Fig. 4 - Checking Fast Idle
Fig. 5 - Adjusting Choke Rod
Fig. 6 - Checking Unloader
Fig. 7 - Checking Float Level
Fig. 8 - Checking Float Centering
Fig. 9 - Checking Float Drop
Fig. 10 - Choke Baffle Plate
Fig. 11 - Choke Valve Installation
Fig. 12 - Throttle Control Rod Adjustment
Fig. 13 - Removing Float
Fig. 14 - Removing Pump Discharge Guide
Fig. 15 - Carburetor Disassembled
Fig. 16 - Installing Pump Discharge Ball
Fig. 17 - Float System
Fig. 18 - Idle System
Fig. 19 - Main Metering and Power Systems
Fig. 20 - Pump System
Fig. 21 - Choke System
Fig. 22 - Idle Speed and Pump Adjustment
Fig. 23 - Idle Mixture Adjustment
Fig. 24 - Checking Throttle Linkage
Fig. 25 - Checking Float Level
Fig. 26 - Checking Float Drop
Fig. 27 - Checking Pump Lever Position
Fig. 28 - Checking Fast Idle
Fig. 29 - Checking Unloader
Fig. 30 - Removing Trip Lever Screw
Fig. 31 - Choke and Bowl Cover Exploded
Fig. 32 - Bowl and Throttle Body Exploded
Fig. 33 - Bowl and Throttle Body Assembled
Fig. 34 - Bowl Cover Assembled
Fig. 35 - Six Cylinder Fuel Pump
Fig. 36 - Eight Cylinder Pump Cross Section
Fig. 37 - Raising Fuel Link
Fig. 38 - Six Cylinder Pump Disassembled
Fig. 39 - Air Cleaner Oil Bath Action
Fig. 40 - Carburetor Special Tools
Rochester "BC"
General Description
Operation
Care, Maintenance and Adjustments . Idle Speed Adjustment
Idle Mixture Adjustment
Automatic Choke Adjustment
Float Level Adjustment
Choke Overhaul
Throttle Rod Adjustment
Major Service Operations
Removal
Disassembly
Inspection
Assembly
Installation
General Description
The carburetor used on all six cylinder models is a Rochester Model "BC" downdraft carburetor, equipped with an automatic choke. This carburetor presents several distinct features of importance to the car owner and the mechanic. Foremost among these features are:
Idle and Part Throttle System
The carburetor section in figure 1 shows the passages for carburetion during idle and part throttle operating conditions. At idle speed, the throttle valve is almost closed. Below the valve is manifold vacuum. Above the valve is atmospheric pressure. Atmospheric pressure is also present in the balanced-type float chamber. This differential of pressure causes fuel to pass from the float chamber, through the main metering jet, to the idle mixture port via the carburetor crossbar. As the fuel passes through the crossbar, it is mixed with air from two air bleed holes in the crossbar and the mixture calibrated by a restriction tube in the crossbar. Additional amounts of air are mixed with the idle fuel, entering from the float chamber via the float chamber passage and from the carburetor bore above the throttle valve via the auxiliary idle passage. The correct amount of fuel air mixture is then metered to the intake manifold by the adjustable idle mixture needle.
As the throttle valve is opened slightly, the auxiliary idle passage is gradually exposed to manifold vacuum, delivering additional fuel-air mixture to the manifold instead of adding air to the mixture. This permits operation of the idle system to provide sufficient fuel-air mixture for the engine until engine speed and throttle opening are high enough to bring the part throttle system into operation.
The float chamber passage also serves a dual purpose. When the engine is stopped, the fuel in the carburetor is heated by the warm air rising from the exhaust manifold and tends to form a vapor. The float chamber passage permits the idle system to vent, preventing hard starting due to a vapor build-up in the idle system.
Further opening of the throttle valve causes sufficient flow through the carburetor bore to develop venturi action at the main discharge nozzle. The end result of the venturi action is the development of a reduced pressure or partial vacuum and a high air velocity at the main discharge nozzle in the crossbar. This pressure differential and high air velocity causes a fuel flow from the float chamber to the cross crossbar and out through the main discharge nozzle, where it atomizes into the air flow through the small venturi.
The transition from the fuel delivered from the idle passage to the fuel delivered from the main discharge nozzle is a gradual move. The idle passage fuel is slowly reduced as the main discharge nozzle delivers more fuel. Thus, the two systems interact and produce a smooth fuel-air flow at all engine speeds.
Power System
The power system of the Rochester Carburetor acts as a supplementary fuel source automatically coupled to engine demands. It is, in effect, an auxiliary main metering jet.
The power valve is a double step, spring-loaded ball type valve, controlled by a vacuum piston and metered by a power jet. When engine demands increase, the load is reflected in a manifold vacuum decrease. As the vacuum is reduced, the vacuum piston is held in the up position by manifold vacuum above the piston and atmospheric pressure and power valve spring force below the piston. A piston spring tends to push the piston down to unseat the power valve ball. When manifold vacuum drops below 5 inches of mercury, the piston unseats the power valve ball, adding an additional fuel supply line to the main discharge nozzle. The power valve contains a double step arrangement, allowing more fuel to pass the valve as manifold vacuum decreases further.
During high vacuum operation, the power valve is closed, and the main metering jet controls an economical fuel-air ratio. A relief passage from a piston groove leads to the carburetor throat, preventing fuel from passing into the intake manifold under high manifold vacuum.
Accelerating Pump System
The accelerating pump system functions to supply added amounts of fuel for increasing engine power output. The pump plunger, equipped with a spring loaded leather seal, is linked to the throttle control lever. A depression of the accelerator pedal by the driver, calling for more engine output, opens the throttle valve to allow a greater air-fuel intake and depresses the pump plunger to obtain a temporarily richer fuel-air mixture for the accelerating process. When the plunger is depressed, it unseats the discharge ball check valve and forces the fuel into the carburetor throat, spraying it against the inner or small venturi to break up the droplets of fuel for better atomization. The downward travel of the plunger also seats a bypass ball check in the plunger.
In the case of a rapid depression of the accelerator pedal, a spring-loaded feature in the pump linkage allows the linkage to over-run the pump plunger. This prevents an excessive pressure build-up in the accelerating system and smooths out the delivery of the acceleration fuel to the carburetor bore.
When the throttle is closed, the plunger is moved up, the discharge ball check is seated, and fuel is allowed into the pump cylinder by a bypass ball check in the plunger itself. This ball check also serves to eliminate any build-up of fuel vapors in the accelerating system when the engine is stopped.
Float System
The level of fuel in the float bowl directly affects the fuel-air ratio by determining the distance that the fuel must rise to enter the crossbar for the idle and main discharge systems. A low level will produce a lean mixture, a high fuel level, a rich fuel-air ratio. The Rochester Carburetor has a concentric fuel bowl to minimize surge effects on acceleration and deceleration. Twin floats operate a needle valve to control the fuel level.
Automatic Choke System
The automatic choke is designed to insure proper starting and driving during cold weather operation. The system is comprised of a thermostatic coil, choke piston, choke valve and fast idle cam and linkage. It is controlled by a combination of intake manifold vacuum, the offset choke valve, atmospheric temperature and exhaust manifold heat.
The thermostatic coil, which is linked to the choke valve shaft, holds the choke valve closed when the engine is below 85°F.
As the engine is started, air velocity against the offset choke valve causes the valve to open slightly against the torque of the thermostatic coil. In addition, as the engine starts, intake manifold vacuum is applied to the choke piston, which also tends to pull the choke valve open.
As a consequence, the choke valve assumes a position where the torque of the thermostatic coil is balanced against the vacuum pull upon the choke piston and air velocity against the offset choke valve. This causes a regulated air flow into the carburetor which provides a proper mixture during the warm-up period.
During warm-up, the choke piston serves to modify the choking action to compensate for varying engine loads or acceleration. Any acceleration or increased road load decreases the vacuum exerted on the choke piston. This allows the thermostatic coil torque to momentarily increase choke valve closure to provide the engine with a sufficiently richer mixture for acceleration.
As the engine warms up, hot air from the exhaust manifold "stove" is drawn into the thermostatic coil cover by the vacuum behind the choke piston. This hot air causes a rise in temperature causing the bi-metallic coil to slowly relax its tension. Thus, the choke valve is allowed to move gradually to the full open position.
To prevent stalling during the warm-up period, it is necessary
to run the engine at an idle speed slightly higher than that for a warm
engine. This is accomplished by the fast idle cam (fig. 2) which is linked to the choke valve shaft and holds the
throttle valve open sufficiently during the warmup period to give the
increased idle RPM until such time as the choke valve moves to the full
open position. While the automatic choke is in operation, the driver may
wish to advance the throttle to the full wide open position. Since this
would decrease vacuum pull on the choke piston, thereby closing the
choke valve, it is necessary to provide increased carburetor air flow by
opening the choke valve mechanically. To accomplish this, a tang on the
throttle lever is made to contact the fast idle cam linkage at wide open
throttle position so as to partially open the choke valve. This will
also relieve excess choking on starting by allowing more air to enter
the carburetor when the engine is cranked with the accelerator held
fully depressed.
Care, Maintenance and Adjustments
Because of the simple construction of the "BC" carburetor, it is possible to make all carburetor adjustments without removing the carburetor from the vehicle.
Idle Speed Adjustment
Idle Mixture Adjustment
The idle mixture adjustment should be made to give a smooth idle at the specified idle speed. Missing is an indication of too lean an idle mixture, while "rolling" or "loping" indicates too rich a mixture.
Normal setting of the choke is such that the scribed index mark on the choke cover is in line with the long cast mark on the choke housing casting. If it is believed that the indexing is wrong, it may be checked as follows:
Fast Idle Adjustment
No adjustment of the fast idle speed is provided since the steps on the fast idle cam are correctly proportioned to give the correct speed steps above normal speed. It is necessary to have the correct relationship between the fast idle cam position and the choke valve position. To check and adjust this setting, proceed as follows:
Unloader Adjustment
Check and make any necessary correction of the unloader adjustment as follows:
Float Drop Adjustment
To insure sufficient entry of fuel under high speed operation, it is necessary to check and adjust the float drop.
Air Horn Installation
Carefully place cover assembly on bowl.
Disassembly
Assembly
NOTE: Check choke valve for free movement.
Automatic Choke Stove
Installation
When the "BC" carburetor is installed on past model vehicles or should the stove be removed for any reason, the following procedure of installation should be followed to assure proper alignment of stove unit.
NOTE: If heater is being installed on a replacement
manifold, remove point from manifold at heater location before
installation.
Throttle Rod Adjustment
The length of the throttle control rod is adjustable to
insure wide open throttle with full accelerator pedal depression. The
adjustment is made at the bell crank on the left side of the engine
block. With the pedal fully depressed and the carburetor throttle fully
opened, the swivel should be adjusted on the control rod for free entry
into the bell crank. (fig. 12).
The swivel should then be given two turns to lengthen the throttle
control rod. Assemble the rod to the bell crank.
Major Service Operations
The perfect carburetor delivers the proper gasoline and air ratios for all speeds of the particular engine for which it was designed. By completely disassembling at regular intervals, which will allow cleaning of all parts and passages, the carburetor can be returned to its original condition and it will then deliver the proper ratios as it did when new.
Because of the simplicity of design of the Model "BC" carburetor, few parts are used which will require replacement. Accurate calibration of passages and discharge holes, require that extreme care be taken in cleaning. Use only carburetor solvent and compressed air to clean all passages and passage discharge holes. Never use wire or other pointed instrument to clean as calibration of carburetor will be affected.
Removal
The Rochester Model 2GC two barrel carburetor is standard equipment on all eight cylinder models. While not interchangeable, the carburetors used on Powerglide-equipped models and standard shift models are basically the same, and the description and service operations are identical. The carburetor incorporates the calibrated cluster design.
The cluster casting is the heart of the carburetor; it embodies the small or secondary venturi, the high speed passages, the main well tubes and nozzles, the idle tubes and the calibrated air bleeds for both the low and high speed metering systems, as well as the accelerating pump jets.
When the cluster is removed for service purposes, all of these vital parts can be readily seen, cleaned and examined; the main well tubes and idle tubes are permanently installed in the cluster body by means of a precision pressed fit.
The cluster fits on a platform provided in the body casting of the carburetor so that the main well and idle tubes are suspended in the fuel.
A gasket is used between the cluster casting and the body platform. This method of design and assembly serves to insulate the main well tubes and idle tubes from engine heat, thus reducing heat expansion and percolation spill-over during hot idle periods of operation and during the time the hot engine is not operating.
An external vent with a protective cover to keep out dirt and other foreign matter is located in the center of the bowl cover to provide adequate venting of the unit under all types of operating conditions.
The Model 2GC carburetor functions conventionally, -using the standard six systems of carburetion: Float, Idle, Part Throttle, Power, Pump and Choke. These systems are basically simple and can easily be traced and understood.
The Model 2GC Carburetor is of side bowl construction. It is
designed, however, with fuel supply jets and passages submerged enough
below the liquid level to provide proper engine operation under all
driving conditions.
Operation
Float System
The float system (fig. 17) controls the level of fuel in the carburetor bowl.
Fuel entering the carburetor first travels through the inlet strainer or filter screen to remove particles which might block jets or passages. Then the fuel passes through the needle and seat into the carburetor bowl; flow continues until the rising liquid level raises the float to a position where the valve is closed. Thus the fuel level can be regulated by setting the float to close the valve when the proper level is reached.
The float tang prevents the float from traveling too far downward. A float needle pull clip connecting the float arm to the needle valve keeps the needle from sticking closed in the seat. The needle is equipped with a spring loaded pin which provides a positive shut off under all conditions.
Idle System
The idle system (fig. 18) consists of the idle tubes, idle passages, idle air bleeds, idle adjustment needles and idle discharge holes.
In the idle speed position the throttle valve is cracked slightly open, allowing a small amount of air to pass through between the wall of the carburetor bore and the edge of the throttle valve.
The idle needle hole is in the high vacuum area below the throttle valve, while the fuel bowl is vented to atmospheric pressure. Vacuum can be called a lack of pressure, so a high vacuum area can be spoken of as an area of low pressure. Thus it can be said that there is considerable pressure difference between the normal atmospheric pressure on the fuel in the bowl and the low pressure (or high vacuum) at the idle needle hole.
The fuel and fuel-air mixture is drawn from the highest pressure point to the lowest pressure point and flows from the fuel bowl to the manifold in the following manner:
Fuel is drawn from the fuel bowl through the main metering jets into the main well (shown in fig. 19). It is metered by the idle fuel metering orifice at the lower tip of the idle tube and travels up the idle tube. When the fuel reaches the top of the idle tube, it mixes with air drawn through the primary idle air bleed and the mixture moves through the horizontal idle passage.
The fuel-air mixture next moves down the vertical idle passage to the secondary idle discharge holes located just above the closed throttle valve. Through these holes further air is added to the mixture, which then passes through the idle needle hole.
In addition to this mixture of fuel and air, there is air entering the bore through the slightly open throttle valve; for smooth operation, the air from the bore and the fuel air mixture from the idle needle hole must combine to form the correct final mixture for curb idle engine speed.
The position of the idle adjustment needle governs the amount of air-fuel mixture admitted to the carburetor bore.
Except for this variable at the idle adjustment needle, the idle system is specifically calibrated for idle engine speed.
Part Throttle System
As the throttle valve is opened, there is a change in pressure differential points.
Initial opening of the valve progressively exposes the secondary idle discharge holes to manifold vacuum and the air stream with the result that they deliver additional air-fuel mixture for fast idle engine requirements.
Further opening of the throttle valve increases the speed of the air stream passing through the venturi, thus lowering the pressure (or raising the vacuum) in the small venturi area of the carburetor bore (fig. 19). At the same time, the edge of the throttle valve is moved away from the wall of the bore, progressively reducing the vacuum and thus the mixture flow at the idle discharge holes.
Since the low pressure point is now in the small venturi area, fuel and fuel air mixture will be drawn from the fuel bowl through the main metering system to the venturi.
The fuel passes through the main metering jet into the main well, where it rises in the main well tube. Air entering through the main well air bleeds in the cluster is mixed with the fuel through the main well tube vents. The mixture continues up the main well tube through the nozzle, where more air is added. The mixture flows through the high speed passage to the small venturi, mixes with additional air and moves on to the bore of the carburetor, through the intake manifold, and into the cylinder as a final mixture for part throttle operation.
Permanent jets and air bleeds calibrate the main metering system for proper part throttle operation.
Power System
The power system provides additional fuel for heavy load and high speed engine requirements.
A spring loaded power piston, controlled by vacuum, regulates the power valve to supply additional fuel according to engine speed and load.
The power piston vacuum channel is open to manifold vacuum beneath the throttle valves; thus the vacuum in the channel rises and falls with manifold vacuum.
During idle and part throttle operation, the manifold vacuum in the channel is normally high enough to hold the power piston in the fully raised position against the tension of the spring. As the manifold vacuum drops with load, the calibrated spring forces the piston down against the power valve, to open it and allow additional fuel flow through the calibrated power restrictions into the main wells.
A two-step valve allows a partial increase in fuel flow for low speed-low vacuum without over-enrichment, as the power valve is opened; at full throttle position, the power valve is fully opened to permit maximum calibrated fuel flow from the power system.
As the load decreases, manifold vacuum increases. The increasing vacuum pull on the piston gradually overcomes the spring tension and returns the power piston to its original raised position, with the valve fully closed.
Pump System
Extra fuel for smooth, quick acceleration is supplied by a double spring pump plunger (fig. 20). The combination of the top and bottom springs is calibrated to move the plunger in such a manner that a smooth, sustained charge of fuel is delivered for acceleration.
The fuel passes from the bowl past the pump plunger ball check into the pump well on the intake stroke of the plunger. When the plunger is pushed downward for acceleration, the fuel is forced up the pump discharge passage.
The pressure of the fuel lifts the pump outlet ball check from its seat and the fuel passes on through the pump jets in the cluster, where it is sprayed into the venturi and delivered to the engine.
The pump plunger head embodies a unique ball check and seat, designed to eliminate fuel percolation in the pump system. When the engine is idling or not operating, excessive fuel vapors in the pump well rise through the plunger head and by-pass the ball, then circulate into the fuel bowl, which is vented to the atmosphere.
Without this feature, vapor pressure in the pump system might force fuel from the pump well into the engine, causing hard hot starting because of excess fuel in the manifold or poor initial acceleration due to vapor in the pump system.
Choke System
For cold engine operation, a rich mixture at the carburetor is required, so that a combustible mixture remains to be drawn into the cylinder after condensation of much of the fuel vapor on the cold engine parts. The function of the choke system is to subject all fuel outlets in the bore of the carburetor to high vacuum while restricting the intake of air, thus drawing into the engine the required rich mixture.
The Model 2GC Carburetor employs the newly designed Rochester Multistage Balanced Piston automatic choke system, to insure proper starting and driving during cold weather operation (fig. 21).
The choke system includes a thermostatic coil, housing, choke piston, choke valve and fast idle cam and linkage. It is controlled by a combination of intake manifold vacuum, air velocity against the offset choke valve, atmospheric temperature and exhaust manifold heat.
The thermostatic coil, which is attached to the choke housing cover acts to hold the choke valve closed when the engine is cold.
The offset choke valve is first slightly opened by a combination of manifold vacuum on the choke piston and air velocity against the offset choke valve.
In the first choking stage, manifold vacuum is applied to the choke piston through a vacuum slot in the housing. This vacuum pulls the piston to help open the choke valve against the thermostatic coil torque. The piston moves in the housing to a point where the piston blocks the vacuum slot; at this point there is very small amount of vacuum pull on the piston and further choke valve opening is primarily the function of the thermostatic coil.
In the second stage, the coil is gradually heated by air drawn from the exhaust manifold "stove," through the center of the thermostatic coil cover, then through a calibrated vacuum by-pass into the main vacuum passage. The calibrated restriction of the vacuum by-pass slows the flow of air through the coil, so that the heating is gradual. Baffle plate serves to distribute the heat from its entering point at the center of the coil throughout the choke housing, to prevent a "hot spot" in the coil center.
The coil "relaxes" as it is heated and the piston moves in the housing until the shoulder of the "slabbed" portion uncovers the edge of the vacuum slot. One side of the piston is "slabbed" cut away, so that vacuum from the slot can draw air directly from the choke housing, thus allowing a greater flow of heat through the coils for the rest of the opening operation.
The thermostatic coil controls the majority the choking action and coils with high thermal activity can be chosen to best fit engine characteristics. Also, low manifold vacuum (during acceleration or load) cannot allow the choke partially close as much as often happens in conventional vacuum controlled choke system.
The choke system uses a conventional fast idle cam and linkage to maintain sufficient engine speed for cold operation.
The carburetor is also equipped with a mechanical "unloader" to eliminate the possibility of choke closing during heavy load or acceleration At wide open throttle, the throttle lever lifts tang on the fast idle cam and restricts the choke from closing past a certain point. This feature particularly useful in preventing excess choking when the engine is cranked with the throttle wide open.
In addition, the unloader also eliminates possibility of the
choke sticking closed, or closing during heavy load or acceleration due
to low vacuum on the piston.
Care, Maintenance and Adjustments
The carburetors are carefully designed and calibrated to meet engine requirements. They are tested and adjusted at the factory to meet specifications. It is a common practice to blame the carburetor for many engine problems, and before making carburetor adjustments, there are several items to be checked.
Preliminary Checks
The length of the throttle linkage is adjustable to assure wide-open throttle with full accelerator pedal depression. To check, depress accelerator pedal fully and check to see if throttle is wide open. If not, adjust threaded swivel at throttle lever to suit. With the accelerator pedal fully depressed and the carburetor throttle valve fully open (through detent on Powerglide models) the threaded swivel should be adjusted for free entry into the throttle lever (fig. 24). The swivel should then be turned two full turns to lengthen the control rod.
Float Level and Drop Adjustment
Automatic Choke Adjustment
Normal setting of the choke is such that the scribed index mark on the cover is in line with the long cast mark on the choke housing casting. If it is believed that the indexing is wrong, it may be checked as follows:
No adjustment of the fast idle speed is provided since the steps on the fast idle cam are correctly proportioned to give the correct speed steps above normal idle speed. It is necessary, however, to have the correct relationship between the fast idle cam position and the choke valve position. To check and adjust this setting, proceed as follows:
Unloader Adjustment
Check and make any necessary correction of the unloader adjustment as follows:
Flooding, stumble on acceleration and other performance complaints are, in many instances, caused by the presence of dirt, water or other foreign matter in the carburetor. To aid in diagnosing the cause of the complaint, the carburetor should be carefully removed from the engine without draining the fuel from the howl. The contents of the fuel bowl may then be examined for contamination as the carburetor is disassembled.
The following is a step-by-step sequence by which the Rochester Model 2 GC Carburetor may be completely disassembled and reassembled. Adjustments may be made and various parts of the carburetor may be serviced without completely disassembling the entire unit.
Choke
Dirt, gum, water or carbon contamination in or on the exterior moving parts of a carburetor are often responsible for unsatisfactory performance. For this reason, efficient carburetion depends upon careful cleaning and inspection while servicing.
Throttle Body
Bowl
It is good shop practice to fill the carburetor bowl before installing the carburetor. This reduces the strain on the starting motor and battery and reduces the possibility of backfiring while attempting to start the engine. A fuel pump clamped to the bench, a small supply of fuel and the necessary fittings enable the carburetor to be filled and the operation of the float and intake needle and seat to be checked. Operate the throttle several times and check the discharge from the pump jets before installing the carburetor.
"Classic Data Note: For illustrations of WCFB please refer to 1956 Engine Fuel Section".
General Description and Operation
Care, Maintenance and Adjustments
Float Adjustments
Pump Adjustment
Metering Rod Adjustment
Vapor Vent Adjustment
Fast Idle Cam Clearance Adjustment
Unloader Adjustment
Lockout Adjustment
Fast Idle Adjustment
Idle Mixture Adjustment
Major Service Operations
Disassembly
Air Horn
Carburetor Body
Throttle Flange
Cleaning and Inspection
Assembly
Throttle Flange
Carburetor Body
Air Horn
Carter WCFB Four Barrel
A Carter WCFB carburetor is available as optional equipment on 8-cylinder engines. This carburetor is used in conjunction with a dual exhaust system when higher engine performance is desired.
The Carter Model WCFB carburetor is basically two (2) dual carburetors contained in one assembly. The section containing the metering rods, accelerating pump and choke is termed the primary side of the carburetor, the other section, the secondary side. It has five (5) conventional circuits as have been used in previous carburetors. They are:
2-Float Circuits
1-Low Speed Circuit
2-High Speed Circuits
1-Pump Circuit
1-Climatic Control (choke) Circuit
FLOAT CIRCUITS
The purpose of the float circuits is to maintain an adequate supply of fuel at the proper level in the bowls for use by the low speed, high speed, pump and choke circuits. Primary and secondary bowls are separated by a partition. The fuel line connection is on the primary side. Fuel is supplied to the primary and secondary intake needles and seats through a passage in the bowl cover, located at the fuel inlet.
Setting the floats to specifications assures an adequate supply of fuel in the bowls for all operating conditions. Float adjustments must be made with the bowl cover gaskets removed and should be checked vertically (specified distance between bowl cover and bottom of floats) and laterally (sides of floats should just clear the arms of gauge). Correct lateral adjustment is important. If the floats are misaligned, they may bind or drag against the inner walls of the bowl.
Intake needles and seats are carefully matched during manufacture. Do not use the primary needle in the secondary seat or vice-versa. To avoid unnecessary bending, floats should be reinstalled in their original positions and then adjusted.
The bowls are vented to the inside of the air horn. Bowl vents are calibrated to provide proper air pressure above the fuel at all times. To assure a positive seal, always use a new bowl cover gasket and a new dust cover gasket when reassembling. An air leak at these points can result in a mileage complaint.
A connecting passage along the outside of the body effects a balance of the fuel levels and air pressures between the two bowls.
LOW SPEED CIRCUITS
Fuel for idle and early part throttle operation is metered through the low speed circuit.
Fuel enters the idle wells through the metering rod jets on the primary side of the carburetor. No idle system is used in the secondary side of the carburetor.
The low speed jets measure the amount of fuel for idle and early part throttle operation. The air by-pass, economizers, and idle bleeds are carefully calibrated and serve to break up the liquid fuel and mix it with air as it moves through the passages to the idle ports and idle adjustment needle ports. Turning the idle adjustment needles toward their seats reduces the quantity of fuel mixture supplied by the idle circuit.
The idle ports are slot shaped, as the throttle valves are opened more of the idle ports are uncovered, allowing a greater quantity of fuel and air mixture to enter the carburetor bores. The secondary throttle valves remain seated at idle.
The vapor vent valve operated by the arm on the countershaft provides a vent for fuel vapors to escape from the carburetor bowls to the outside at idle and when engine is not in operation.
Air leakage at the gasketed surface surrounding the low speed mixture passages or between the flange and manifold may cause poor idle and low speed operation. Always use new gaskets.
All by-pass, bleeds, economizers, idle ports, idle adjustment screw ports, as well as the boxes of the flange must be clean and free of carbon. Obstructions will cause poor low speed engine operation. Worn or damaged idle adjustment screws or low speed jets should be replaced.
HIGH SPEED CIRCUITS
Fuel for part throttle and full throttle operation is supplied through the high speed circuits. Main discharge nozzles are permanently installed and must not be removed in service.
Primary Side
The position of the metering rods in the metering rod jets control the amount of fuel flowing in the high speed circuit of the primary side of the carburetor. The position of the metering rods is dual controlled; mechanically by movement of the throttle, and by manifold vacuum applied to the vacuum piston on the vacumeter link.
Mechanical Metering Rod Action
During part throttle operation, manifold vacuum pulls the vacumeter piston, link and metering rod assembly down holding the vacumeter link against the metering rod countershaft arm. Movement of the metering rods will then be controlled by the metering rod countershaft arm which is connected to the throttle shaft. This is true at all times that the vacuum under the piston is strong enough to overcome the tension of the vacumeter spring.
Vacuum Metering Action
Under any operating condition (acceleration, hill climbing, etc.), when the tension of the vacumeter spring overcomes the pull of vacuum under the piston, the metering rods will move toward their wide-open throttle or power position.
Secondary Side
Fuel for the high speed circuit of the secondary side is metered at the main metering jets (no metering rods used).
Throttle valves in the secondary side remain closed until the primary throttle valves have been opened a predetermined amount. They arrive at wide open throttle position at the same time as the primary valves. This is accomplished by linkage between the throttle levers.
Secondary throttle valves are locked closer during choke operation to insure faster cold engine starting and warm-up.
Anti-Percolator
To prevent vapor bubbles in the nozzle passages and low speed wells from forcing fuel out of the nozzles, anti-percolator and calibrated plugs and bushings are used. Their purpose is to vent the vapors and relieve the pressure before it is sufficient to push the fuel out of the nozzles and into the intake manifold. Anti-percolator plugs and bushings are permanently installed and must not be removed in service.
The pump circuit is located only in the primary side of the carburetor. The accelerating pump circuit provides the measured amount of fuel necessary to insure smooth engine operation during acceleration at speeds below approximately 30 MPH.
When the throttle is closed the pump plunger moves upward in its cylinder and fuel is drawn into the pump cylinder through the inlet passage. The discharge needle is seated at this time to prevent air being drawn into the cylinder. When the throttle is opened the pump plunger moves downward forcing fuel out through the discharge passage, past the discharge needle, and out of the pump jets. When the plunger moves downward the inlet valve is closed preventing fuel from being forced back into the bowl.
If the throttle is opened suddenly the pump spring will be compressed by the plunger shaft telescoping, resulting in a smoother pump discharge of longer duration.
At speeds above approximately 30 MPH pump discharge is no longer necessary to insure smooth acceleration. When the throttle valves are opened a predetermined amount, the pump plunger bottoms in the pump cylinder eliminating pump discharge.
The climatic control circuits provides a correct mixture necessary for quick cold engine starting and warm-up.
When the engine is cold, tension of the thermostatic coil holds the choke valve closed. When the engine is started, air velocity against the offset choke valve causes the valve to open slightly against the thermostatic coil tension. Intake manifold vacuum applied to the choke piston also tends to pull the choke valve open. The choke valve assumes a position where tension of the thermostatic coil is balanced by the pull of vacuum on the piston and air velocity on the offset choke valve.
When the engine starts, slots located in the sides of the choke piston cylinder are uncovered allowing intake manifold vacuum to draw warm air from the hot air tube, located in the exhaust manifold, through the climatic control housing. The flow of warm air in turn heats the thermostatic coil and causes it to lose some of its tension. The thermostatic coil loses its tension gradually until the choke valve reaches wide open position.
When the engine is accelerated during the warm-up period, the corresponding drop in manifold vacuum allows the thermostatic coil to momentarily close the choke, providing a richer mixture.
During the warm-up period it is necessary to provide a fast idle speed to prevent engine stalling. This is accomplished by a fast idle cam which is rotated by a connector rod attached to the choke shaft. The fast idle cam prevents the primary throttle valves from returning to a normal warm engine idle position while the climatic control is in operation.
During the starting period if the engine becomes flooded, the
choke valve can be partially opened manually. This can be accomplished
by depressing the accelerator pedal to the floor and engaging the
starter. The projection on the throttle lever (unloader) will rotate the
fast idle cam and in turn partially open the choke valve.
Care, Maintenance and Adjustments
The float adjustments are described and made during assembly of the bowl cover. The remaining adjustments are made in the following sequence.
Metering Rod Adjustment must be made after completing the pump adjustment using the following procedure: NOTE: No metering rod gauges are necessary.
Flooding, stumble on acceleration and other performance complaints are, in many instances, caused by the presence of dirt, water or other foreign matter in the carburetor. To aid in diagnosing the cause of the complaint, the carburetor should be carefully removed from the engine without draining the fuel from the bowl. The contents of the fuel bowl may then be examined for contamination as the carburetor is disassembled.
CAUTION: Whenever the carburetor is removed from the engine, care must be exercised to avoid damaging the throttle valves, as the lower edge of the valves project below the throttle flange when the valves are in the open position.
Bowl Cover
Throttle Flange
The fuel pumps used on both six and eight cylinder models are of the diaphragm type. The pumps are of similar construction, and the service procedures are the same for each. Both pumps are located on lower right front corner on each engine. On the six cylinder models, an eccentric on the camshaft actuates the pump rocker arm. The eight cylinder pump rocker arm is actuated by a push rod, located in the cylinder block between the pump and the fuel pump eccentric on the camshaft. The eight cylinder model pump is inverted relative to the six cylinder model pump, and has a larger capacity. A leather oil seal is used on the six and a rubber oil seal on the eight. Figure 35 and figure 36 show a cross-section of each pump.
The fuel pump consists of a body, rocker arm and link assembly, fuel diaphragm, fuel diaphragm spring oil seal, seal spring, cover, inlet and outlet valves pulsator diaphragm and cover. The fuel diaphragm consists of several layers of specially treated cloth, which are not affected by gasoline, held together by two metal discs and a push rod. An oil seal assembly fits around the push rod and is held down on the pump body by the seal spring.
As the rocker arm is moved toward the pump, compressing the rocker arm spring, it bears against the fuel link which is pivoted on the rocker arm pin bushing. The end of the fuel link
is hooked to the fuel diaphragm pull rod. This moves the diaphragm away from fuel chamber and the fuel diaphragm spring is compressed. The enlarging fuel chamber moves gasoline from the tank through the fuel line, inlet valve and into the space on the valve side of the diaphragm.
As the rotating eccentric permits the rocker arm to move away from contact with the link, the compressed diaphragm spring is free to move the diaphragm up to expel the fuel through the outlet valve to the carburetor bowl and float needle valve.
Because the fuel diaphragm is moved toward the valves only by
the fuel diaphragm spring, the pump delivers fuel to the carburetor only
when the pressure in the outlet line is less than the pressure
maintained by the diaphragm spring. Thus, fuel is delivered to the
carburetor only when the needle valve is open. When the needle valve is
closed by pressure of fuel on the float in the carburetor, the pump
builds up pressure until the diaphragm spring is compressed. The
diaphragm remains in a stationary condition to maintain a static
pressure until more fuel is required. Normal diaphragm stroke is about
1/64" .The pulsator diaphragm in the fuel section cover acts as a
pulsator or air dome to increase effective fuel flow by leveling off the
flow variation experienced with the two stroke diaphragm cycle.
Care, Maintenance and Adjustments
The fuel pump should be checked regularly to make sure that the mounting bolts, cover to body bolts, pulsator diaphragm cover screw and inlet and outlet connections are tight.
Check the pump while it is mounted on the engine.
After removal of pump from engine and before disassembly is started, plug all openings and thoroughly wash exterior of pump with cleaning solvent to remove all dirt and grease.
Installation
Air cleaners on all models operate primarily to remove dust and dirt from the air that is take into the carburetor and engine. All air cleaner used incorporate flame arresters. In addition, the air cleaner design is such that the sound of a rushing into the carburetor is deadened, reducing engine operating noise.
Standard Cleaner
The standard cleaner has an element consisting of a metallic gauze filter that is saturated heavy oil. As air filters through this element, dirt and dust are deposited on the oily surfaces o the gauze. This gauze also quenches any flame that may be caused by engine backfire through the carburetor.
Oil Bath Air Cleaner
A heavy duty, oil bath type cleaner is also available when
vehicles are to be used in unusually dusty areas. This cleaner is
interchangeable with the standard air cleaner and will not affect power
or economy in any way. Air entering this cleaner must go directly down
in a narrow space around the cleaner to the oil level in the cleaner
body. The air must then turn and go up through the copper gauze and into
the carburetor. As the direction of air flow is reversed, heavy
particles in the air are thrown into the oil in the cleaner body,
greatly reducing the amount of dirt to be deposited in the copper gauze.
Oil is carried up into the gauze with the air. It is caught on the
gauze, where it aids in trapping the finer dust particles from the air.
The predetermined amount of oil being carried into the gauze washes the
gauze and carries the dirt back to the sump. (fig. 39).
Service Operations
Symptom and Probable Cause
Probable Remedy
Excessive Fuel Consumption
a. Improper adjustment
a. Adjust idling mixture screws
b. Improper float adjustment
b. Check and adjust float level
c. Dirty air cleaner
c. Clean air cleaner
d. Fuel leaks
d. Check carburetor, fuel pump, fuel tank and connections for leaks
e. Sticking controls
e. Check choke and throttle valve and manifold heat control valve or
spring for proper operation
f. Improper engine temperature
f. Refer to Cooling Section
g. Dragging brakes
g. Refer to Brake Section
h. Engine improperly tuned
h. Tune engine-See Engine Section
i. Tires underinflated
i. Inflate to recommended pressure
j. Dirt in carburetor
j. Clean carburetor
k. Wrong jets
k. Install correct jets
Fast Idling
a. Improper adjustment
a. Adjust idling and throttle stop screws
b. Controls Sticking
b. Free up controls and lubricate linkage
c. Automatic choke sticking
c. Clean automatic choke
d. Poor automatic choke heat connection
d. Repair automatic choke heat connections
Engine Dies (Will Not Idle)
a. Idle speed or mixture screws improperly adjusted.
a. Adjust carburetor
b. Low speed jet or idle passages plugged.
b. Disassemble and clean carburetor
c. Vacuum leaks, carburetor or manifold
c. Replace necessary gaskets
d. Float needle and seat loose, worn or sticking
d. Replace needle and seat
Engine Misses on Acceleration
a. Accelerating pump jet plugged
a. Disassemble and clean carburetor
b. Accelerating pump check valves sticking or leaking
b. Disassemble and clean carburetor
c. Faulty power piston
c. Free-up or replace power piston
d. Worn pump leather
d. Replace pump plunger
e. Improper spark plug adjustment
e. Adjust spark plugs-See Engine Section
f. Improper tappet adjustment
f. Adjust tappets-See Engine Section
g. Sticking or burned valves
g. Free up sticking valves or replace burned
Fuel System Specifications
Air Cleaner
Make - AC
Type:
Standard - Mesh
Optional - Oil
Bath
Carburetor
Make and Type:
6-cylinder - GM Model "BC""
Downdraft with Automatic Choke
8-cylinder - GM Model 2GC Downdraft,
2 barrel with Automatic Choke
8-cylinder (opt.) - Carter WCFB Downdraft, 4 barrel with Automatic
Choke
Fuel Pump, 6-cylinder
Make, Model - AC, model EM
Pressure - 3 1/2 to 4 1/2 psi
Fuel Pump, 8-cylinder
Make, Model - AC, model EM
Pressure - 4 to 5 1/4 psi