1958 35 hp Big Twin needle valves

[twier]

After five years I finished my boat but have yet to have a relaxed ride (9 tows and counting). The Big Twin has had all the parts replaced, starts, and runs like a top. But….
Either the low or the high speed needle valve always turns out after a while, it kills, usually fouls the plugs, and won’t start. I have put three packing washers on each needle (several do overs on each) and tightened the gland nut so I can barely twist the needle. One of them will still come loose within 20 minutes. Any ideas??? Duct tape the knobs?

 

[racerone]

Something is wrong here.-----Packing washers and proper tightening has always kept those needles from wandering.

 

[tphoyt]

Could try a little RED lock tight.
It may add a bit of drag but not lock it up completely. You have a crazy problem here that’s for sure.
Best of luck.
I have to say you did a really nice job on that boat she’s beautiful.

 

[tphoyt]

Sorry I meant to say BlUE lock tight.

 

[racerone]

Fix what is wrong with packing and jam nut !

 

[twier]

I added yet some more packing and really tightened the gland nut. I'm going to set the needles then duct tape the knobs (stooping low I know). I really want one stress free ride before it gets too cold.
Thanks for the help.

 

[oldboat1]

The needles should be tight enough that they do not rattle loose, but not so tight that you cannot adjust using the knobs. That means the knobs must be tight to the needles (poss. stripped screws if they remain loose). The needles are snugged up with the jam nut -- use a couple of cork gaskets.

I haven't looked at the '58 assembly recently and it might be a little more complex. You should be able to find a parts diagram here to show the assembly. (Beautiful boat, btw!)

 

[twier]

The needles should be tight enough that they do not rattle loose, but not so tight that you cannot adjust using the knobs. That means the knobs must be tight to the needles (poss. stripped screws if they remain loose). The needles are snugged up with the jam nut -- use a couple of cork gaskets.

I haven't looked at the '58 assembly recently and it might be a little more complex. You should be able to find a parts diagram here to show the assembly. (Beautiful boat, btw!)

The knobs are tight to the needle. The needle and gland nut come out together. I just got more new packing washers and will try it with three on each needle. However, the lower unit is leaking oil all over the place after expert A flipped the dog clutch. That solved the jumping out of gear put he did not put in new seals like I asked him to. Why?? Don’t know. I’m taking it to expert B and bagging it for the season.

 

[tphoyt]

Sorry to hear you are having more problems.
I hope you get everything worked out and have a better summer next year.
Keep us posted it would be good to hear if you find a solution to the needle problem.
Best

 

[oldboat1]

The guide/gland nut screw into the carb housing; the needle screws into the guide. Hold the guide in place while loosening and screwing out the needle. Make sure there isn't an extra needle valve bushing up in there by the point of the needle. System does work.