73 Merc 500 Carb rebuild

[knouse94]

I have removed my carbs and have my rebuild kits. I want to know if it is ok to soak the carbs in paint thinner before I open them up to clean them. When I was taking the carbs off the motor the plastic piece (see picture) that is connected to both the carbs broke. Can I get just this piece or make a new one somehow. This is the first motor I have dug into so I do not know much. Thanks

 

[Chris1956]

Re: 73 Merc 500 Carb rebuild

Paint thinner is a pretty weak solvent. Normally we use a carb cleaner or acetone. That piece that you broke is real common to Mercs. A used motor lot is the cheapest place to find one. A merc dealer may be able to get one for you.

Get a gasket kit for each carb and you probably need new floats and inlet needles and seats, as well.