1963 40 hp Lark V Non-Cork Carb Float Replacement?

[SteveVT]

Does anyone know if there a newer ethanol resistant plastic carb float available for a '63 Lark V 40 hp?
The original varnished cork type was part number 375792. And these just keep giving me problems. Thanks!

 

[F_R]

Are you saying you are having problems with new 375792 floats? New ones are still cork, but not the same coating as the old original ones. The new coating is supposed to be ethanol resistant.

A few people have gone to all the work to modify a 50hp float 382363 (18-7210) to fit a 40hp. It is not a direct fit, but can be done if you are determined enough.

Personally, I have no quarrel with the new cork ones.

 

[SteveVT]

Thanks FR for the plastic float mod possibility.

I did get a new OEM cork float last year, but it was very slightly larger diameter than the original -- enough so that it caught against one of the screw bosses on the side of the carb bowl at times -- giving intermittent engine outs. Took a while to diagnose.

I didn't think I could sand it down in that spot to fit, since I don't know what coating to use to cover it again -- whatever it would be would have to resist soaking in alcohol, gasoline, oil, and moisture.

I replaced it with the original (probably 1963) float, and the engine-outs stopped for awhile last summer, but it has deteriorated due to soakage -- probably due to ethanol since last year.

I'm reluctant to get another cork float in case it is oversized like the other one -- but maybe that was a one time production line flaw?

 

[F_R]

Some people seem to get all the bad luck. (just kidding). I guess the new coating is some kind of polyurethane or epoxy, but don't quote me on that.

Surprised that new one was too big. Those things were made for umpteen years with no problem. Maybe they come from the jungles now???

 

[SteveVT]

Thanks FR ....Maybe I'll order another just to see. I'm just wondering now, maybe they glued the brass tab on just a little too far out, which would have the same effect of rubbing the opposite end against the carb bowl. Maybe I just got a lemon....uhhh...float.

I bet these things are presently hand made from the look of them....uh nowadays some place maybe near a jungle.....modern day outsourcing.