The Stovebolt Site Forums The Shop Area Engine Shop Carb problem

The Edelbrock carb on my truck seems to loose the fuel when it isn't driven for a week. The fuel tank has been relocated in the rear and a new hi vol pump installed. I still have to crank it for 10-15 sec, to get the fuel up. the carb is fairly new.

Dunno anything about how the Edelbrock is plumbed, but I had that problem with my Carter W-1. (Cranking 10-15 secs)

I just rebuilt it, and it fires on the first crank now. Runs smoother, too.

Is the new fuel pump electric? If it is, try turning on the key, pumping the gas pedal a few times, and then try starting it.

I had this happen on my old 63 Nova with either an Edelbrock or Demon carb. The problem seemed to be the Edelbrock fuel pump. I don't think there's any anti-drainback valve in it. I never did check into the possbility of installing a valve like that between the tank and the pump, but it seems like it otta work. I don't know of any sources for such a valve, tho.

The fuel pump is a brand New Holly Hi-performance type.
don't know the number right now.

That is a pretty common problem with the AFB (Edelbrock performer) carb. If it is going to set for periods of time I put an electric fuel pump back by the tank with a switch under the dash. Turn on the switch for a few seconds & it kicks right off. A spring return switch works best.

If I put the electric in, do I eliminate the old pump?

No. Just use the electric pump to prime it. The mech. pump will pull right through the electric pump. Be shure to put a filter in front of the electric pump & mount it low along the frame & near the tank.

Gazim,
It sounds like a lack of fuel problem to me. Is the choke working, and the accelerator pump in the carbie?

Wombat

I think what he is talking about is the carb is drying out over a weeks time. The Quadrajets used to leak the fuel out of the plugs under the main body. Epoxy was a good cure for them. Take the carburater off the truck while its still fule of fuel. Let it set on a bench for the same amount of time it did on the truck and check it for leaks. Could be just a simple plug leaking or it could be just evaporation. The electric primer pump will help it start, but thats not the main problem. The fuel doesn't run back out the carburaters due to the location of the needle and seat. The fuel line my run dry, but the carb should stay full and it should start right up.

Joe

Thanks Joe, sounds like your advice fits my situation. Will give it a try. can you give me a better discription of where the plugs are. Hate to epoxy the wrong thing