Chronic float valve problems

[dingbat]

Replaced everything from the tank to the carbs and rebuilt the carbs two years ago. Since that time I have had 3 different float valves hang up and cause problems. The only thing I can think is that alcohol is causing problems.

Noticed when I bought the rebuild kits some kits came with brown gaskets and others with grey. Don?t remember the colors of the previous failures but noticed the valve leaking this time was grey.

Why the two different colors gaskets? One alcohol resistant, one not?

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Chronic float valve problems

are you installing the little spring on the float and float needle? the spring pulls the needle open when the float drops. also change all your fuel lines to alcohol resistant, if not done already.

 

[dingbat]

Re: Chronic float valve problems

The little spring is installed and oriented on the port side of the float chamber per the manual.

All lines are alcohol resistant.

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: Chronic float valve problems

when i set my floats i set the side opposite the hinge a little wider than hinge side. never had a problem. i rebuild about 10 carbs a week. never had an ethanol problem with the float needle.

 

[240 Offshore]

Re: Chronic float valve problems

I can't believe I finally found someone else who has been plagued by stuck float valves. I have had problems with a 1992 40 Johnson on a little Whaler that I have replaced the valve and seats in the carbs twice to try to fix the problem. Finally got a pair of rebuilt carbs from my boat mechanic friend and all was good for about a week, Then same problem. I swore off using Stabil thinking it was causing the tip of the float needle to swell. Now I wonder if it's the ethanol. I have a pair of 1990 Johnson 140s on my Grady and the same problem with one engine constantly. I buy fuel for that at the marina which isn't suppose to have alcohol in it. I figured it was the Stabil 'cause I never replaced those valves. They will start and run shortly after using choke/prime but the not until the float finally gets unstuck. I'm going crazy with this. If you figure out what caused your problems or atleast what you did to minimixe it please let me know...Thanks

 

[Daviet]

Re: Chronic float valve problems

How is your float drop set. Isn't it controlled by a tab on the back of the float?