The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop 261 Carb

What is the correct carb for a 1960 261? I’m starting to look and want to ensure I get the correct one.

Chris

I think it is Rochester 70015140 (1959 USA) or Rochester 7015013 (1960 Canadian).

The 1959 specifications for that carburetor are listed here.
The 1960 specifications for that carburetor are listed here.

I'll try to remember to look in the USA 1960 Shop Manual (stored in my garage).

Thank you! I know my 216 Rochester B isn’t getting enough fuel due to jet size. I don’t want that to happen to the 261 when I rebuild it.

Chris

Take out the jet.
Better?

I just went through this carb issue on my newly rebuilt 261. I was using an old 216 Rochester. GM had major recall/warranty problems with those Rochester B's back in the 50's when they decided to not use Carter carburetors anymore.

I ended up going with a Zenith 228 model 11963. If you do this, the hard part will be finding a "175" base that fits the 2 15/16" intake manifold hole spacing. It was meant for a GMC 270 motor, which is awfully close to a 261. Much better quality carb than a Rochester from what I have learned.

I also had a Carter YF for a 258 AMC engine recommended as well, since a 258 is so close in size to a 261. That would have been my next option if I hadn't found a good Zenith core to rebuild.

After getting help setting the timing on my 261, it runs wonderfully. Smooth 500 rpm low idle and full power up to wide open throttle. Fast start-ups. For now, it is running like it was intended to.

PM me if you want pictures and details.

Those Zenith 175 bases are worth keeping -

When talking about the 1960 optional 261 you are beginning to travel down the river stix (spelling, don't believe that stuff). the optional 261 in 1960 had for both the automatic and standard shift a #57 metering jet. In my opinion the 57 is a good all round metering jet. Unless you have a 261 from a bus that was governor equipped from factory then you need a #42 jet. This is a Rochester BC carb. If there is any evidence of a governor attached throw it away and go with your exiting BC. Most governor's at the time kept the speed at 45 mph. I'm a Rochester/Carter Nazi so you may need advice from tclederman or hotrodlincoln. There is a gold mine of folks on this web-site that have pretty much seen it all. A plane old Model "B" with a choke pull off is my preference on all the oldies. Stuck in my ways Doc.

I'm running the correct carb for my 261, engine was a 62 casting, it came with its original carb and it is a Rochester B with a 64 metering jet. Engine was out of 1-1/2 ton truck. Now I do remember my 235 with a rochester B had a smaller venturi with a smaller jet believe a 58

Thanks! I know my 216 carb won’t fit, so looks like I will be looking for one to rebuild!

Chris

I replaced the Rochester B on my 1960 261 with a 32/36 progressive 2 barrel carb from Tom Langdon & love it.

Tim - someone far wiser than I once said something to the effect: "if you haven't tasted steak, lunchmeat is great!"

Jon.

On my 1960 261 is a 2-barrel AA1 Zenith (from a GMC 302).

It has variable/adjustable jets added by me (added by my carburetor rebuilder, actually).

It has run flawlessly and economically for over 10+ years.

Tim, you do realize you posted on a three year old thread!

Thanks, Phil

Yes, I knew - that carb info might help someone searching old threads for information.

If you are a moderator and you think my post should be deleted, please delete it

Not my Forum to Moderate but..

I think adding new info to an old post is beneficial for those doing "research".

With only 31,856 posts, I think you you need to "up your game" and continue to help the rest of us with your experience and knowledge. ( humorous sarcasm )

I've only "been around" since 2014 and recall the many times you responded to posts with helpful information and guidance.

Thanks Tim, we appreciate you!

Agree, on all counts. Tim, you are a great source of information and always very willing to share. (And you do good links. ) Thanks for all that and more.

I also agree, Tim has been a mainstay on this ship we call “Stovebolt” for many years now. The top #1 poster on this forum. Always offering good advice and good information. Thanks Tim for all you’ve done to support our hobby. Since number two is OK with this thread, I see no reason to delete anything.

Thanks for the positive comments.

I posted this to help future readers/members.

I have always used Chevrolet Truck Data Books (TDBs) as sources of information/identification about Chevrolet Trucks, even though the TDB has not in the past been enough (here) to allow some TDB vehicles to be called a truck.