Float adjustment

[Slappy]

When adjusting the float on an IH carb, is the measurement made with the gasket on or off?

Thanks

[Bigdog]

With the gasket in place. For a good view check out Lurker Carl's carb fixes at this link:
http://www.cleancomputes.com/Cub/Maintenance%20Tips%20and%20Techniques/Lurker%20Carl's%20Cub%20Carb%20Fixes/index.html

[Donny M]

Have I been doing these carbs all wrong or is the picture on page 2-9 of my service manual correct

IMHO the float height should be set without the gasket. Measured from the throtle body flange a closed float should measure 1-13/32" or 1.406" and in the open position the measurements would be 1-19/32" or 1.593"
Measuring with the gasket installed would make the float lower.

I may be all wet here but haven't had any problems as of yet

[Donny M]

I should also mention that the deepest part of the bowl is 1.650 deep. Setting the float height with the gasket installed would put the float very close to the bottom of the bowl.

[Donny M]

So you experts, whats the correct setting

[Lurker Carl]

All float settings are with the gasket in place on the throttle body. This applies to the IH and Zenith carburetors for the Cub. Gaskets can be different thicknesses. The only way to ensure float adjustments result in a consistant fuel level in the bowl is to measure from the top of the bowl casting - which starts at the gasket.

The float drop setting keeps the float from banging against the bottom of the bowl while the tractor is running. Your float will have a very shiney spot where it contacts the bowl until a hole is worn. If this is occuring, slightly reducing the drop will not affect the operation of the engine unless it restricts needle valve from opening. About the only time you'll see problems with the drop is if the float cage/needle assembly are wrong or there are 2 gaskets under the cage or the float is mangled.

When all things are right with your carburetor, the bowl will not be empty during even during peak demand. So what seems like a close tolerance is not realized during operation.

[Slappy]

Thanks for all the advice. I've set the float with the gasket in place, but the darn thing still starts to weep gas at the bottom drain hole after a couple of days. I've followed LC's directions to the letter - the only thing left is to switch from the IH needle and seat to the Kohler vicon needle and seat.

Even with the slow leak the tractor runs great.

[beaconlight]

Could be leaking around the threads or the fibre gasket at the cage and not the needle leaking. First look for the obvious and when that doesn't work look further.

Bill

[Donny M]

Carl wrote:

All float settings are with the gasket in place on the throttle body. This applies to the IH and Zenith carburetors for the Cub.

That would make the Service Manual incorrect. I agree that for the Zenith carb the gasket should be in place but I think using the gasket on the IH carb will put the float too close to the bottom of the bowl.