The older updraft carburetors used before 1935 are MUCH more reliable than more modern downdraft carburetors.
WHY is this true?
The downdraft carb sits on top of the engine and the easiest culprit.
The updraft carburetor is much harder to get to; thus other items are checked and the culprit found before looking at the carburetor.
Glad you found the problem!
Jon
