bent idle mixture adjustment needle

[sltintexas]

I tore my carb apart and noticed my idle mixture needle is bent. It is bent on the threaded part. I assume that is an issue.

This is on a 1996 mercruiser 3.0LX with a 2barrel mercarb. carb number807504.

Can I bend it back if I don't mess up the needle portion?

Is this included in the carb kit (my is coming Wed.)

 

[EddiePetty]

Re: bent idle mixture adjustment needle

...the idle mixture screw is not normally included in rebuild kits.

If the bent portion in only in the threads and/or slot-drive head, mount the needle in either a drill press on a vise-clamped portable drill. Turn at slow speed and gently tap the bent portion with a small hammer until the run-out is minimized, then using a hardwood scrap, press against the needle (still turning) until straight. Insert the 'straightened' needle into the carb until it bottoms out, observe the needle protrution into the carb's throat for centralization in its port...correct as required.