Expert Carburettor Servicing at the Finch Powerhouse

At the Finch Powerhouse, we have expertise in the repair, reconditioning, and overhaul of carburettors, mechanical fuel pumps, and ignition distributors. Our expertise extends to pre-1980s carburettors for a wide range of vehicles from American, Australian, English, German, Italian, and other European origins.

Comprehensive Carburettor Services

Whether it's an on-vehicle or off-vehicle* overhaul, our skilled technicians are equipped to handle your needs. We provide detailed engine tune-ups, pre-purchase inspections, safety checks, and thorough servicing for your cherished vehicle. Our diagnostic capabilities ensure that fuel system problems are accurately identified and fixed. For vehicles with modifications, we offer conversion services and re-jetting of carburettors to suit your specific needs.

* Please note that the most appropriate way to diagnose tuning and fuel delivery/carburation issues is ‘on-vehicle’. The problem you have been experiencing may not be due, or only partially due, to your carburettor. Tuning should be carried out on-vehicle.

Carburation is but One Element of Performance

There are five essential elements a petrol engine needs for generating power and to overcome friction, and nearly every engine issue can be traced back to one of these elements. Here's an exploration of each one:

1. Air:

Clogged Air Filters:

An easily rectifiable issue, air filters can become obstructed with debris over time. Regularly cleaning or replacing them is crucial. A clogged filter impedes air intake, forcing the engine to exert more effort and consequently reducing power.

Exhaust Flow Obstructions:

Efficient exhaust expulsion is as vital as air intake. Blockages can diminish airflow and performance. Over time, catalytic converters may become blocked due to improper fuel mixtures or reactions with fuel additives. Similarly, internal damage or rust in mufflers can restrict flow, impeding performance.

Valvetrain Deterioration:

Engines without self-adjusting mechanisms may suffer from valvetrain deterioration. Continuous use leads to wear, affecting valve timing and lift, hence reducing airflow and power. Regular valve adjustments are necessary to compensate for this wear.

2. Fuel:

Restricted fuel delivery into the cylinders can result in power loss, especially if the engine demands more fuel than is supplied.

Fuel Pump Wear:

Fuel pumps may degrade over time, failing to deliver the required fuel pressure, particularly during high demand situations like acceleration or uphill driving. This might manifest as power loss, sputtering, or inability to maintain speed.

3. Spark:

Piston Carbon Deposits:

Deposits on pistons or cylinder walls create hot spots, which can lead to engine knock. The engine may adjust by retarding ignition timing, which decreases power.

Dirty Spark Plugs:

Over time, spark plugs can accumulate deposits leading to misfires. Keeping them clean ensures efficient combustion and power delivery.

4. Compression:

Maintaining compression is often challenging in older engines. A decrease in compression can significantly impact power due to worn-out metal components.

Worn Piston Rings:

Over time, piston rings can wear down, leading to blow-by where combustion gases bypass the piston and reduce pressure and power. This also leads to quicker oil contamination from combustion byproducts.

Valve Carbon Build-up:

Carbon accumulation on valves or valve seats can prevent proper closing, allowing air to escape during compression, thereby lowering the compression ratio and potentially causing backfiring or reduced power.

5. Friction:

Regular oil changes are vital. As oil ages, it thickens, increasing friction and making it harder for the engine to operate efficiently. This not only requires more power to overcome the increased resistance but also accelerates component wear.

In summary, consistent vehicle maintenance is key to minimising power loss. While some degradation over time is inevitable, proper care can significantly extend the life and performance of your vehicle's engine.

Carburettor Servicing Process

Servicing a classic car's carburettor is a detailed process requiring precision and expertise. Here are the typical steps involved:

1. Inspection and Diagnostics:
   • Visual Inspection: Examine the carburettor for signs of wear, damage, or dirt buildup.
   • Functional Check: Test the choke, throttle operation, and idle settings to identify any immediate issues.
   • Assessing Vehicle Symptoms: Consider any problems the vehicle has been having, such as difficulty starting, rough idling, or stalling.
2. Removal:
   • Safety Measures: Disconnect the battery and ensure the vehicle is in a safe, stable condition.
   • Detach Components: Carefully disconnect fuel lines, linkages, and remove the air cleaner.
   • Carburettor Removal: Unscrew and gently lift the carburettor from the manifold.
3. Disassembly:
   • Component Cataloging: We methodically disassemble the carburettor, keeping track of all parts and their placements.
   • Gasket and Seal Removal: Remove old gaskets, seals, and o-rings that will be replaced. Inspect for witness marks. Temporarily retain for identification purposes.
4. Cleaning:
   • Soaking and Scrubbing: We use specialised cleaners to soak and clean all metal components. Non-metal parts should be cleaned separately to avoid damage. 
   • Ultrasonic Cleaning: Some parts may require ultrasonic cleaning to remove stubborn deposits.
   • Air Blowing: Use compressed air to blow out all passages and ensure all parts are completely dry.
5. Inspection and Repair:
   • Wear and Tear Check: Inspect all parts for wear, cracks, or other damage.
   • Replacing Components: Replace any worn or damaged parts with new ones. This often includes jets, needles, gaskets, and seals.
   • Surface Check: Ensure mating surfaces are clean and flat for a proper seal.
6. Reassembly:
   • Gasket and Seal Placement: Install new gaskets, seals, and o-rings.
   • Component Reassembly: Carefully reassemble the carburettor, ensuring all parts are correctly aligned and secured.
   • Adjustments: Set the initial adjustments for idle, mixture, and choke based on manufacturer specifications.
7. Installation:
   • Mount Carburettor: Place the carburettor back onto the manifold, ensuring a proper seal.
     Reconnect Components: Reattach fuel lines, linkages, and the air cleaner.
   • Safety Check: Ensure all connections are secure and there are no leaks.
8. Adjustment and Tuning:
   • Idle Setting: Start the engine and adjust the idle speed and mixture screws for optimal performance.
   • Performance Testing: Test the throttle response, acceleration, and deceleration.
   • Final Checks: Look for any signs of leaks or abnormal behavior.
9. Road Test:
   • Driving Test: Take the vehicle for a drive to ensure it performs well under various conditions.
   • Monitoring Performance: Pay attention to engine responsiveness, idling stability, and overall performance.
10. Post-Service Inspection:
    • Recheck: After the road test, reinspect the carburettor and surrounding area for any issues like leaks or loose components.
    • Final Adjustments: Make any necessary final adjustments to the carburettor settings.

This procedure requires not only technical know-how but also a keen attention to detail and patience. It's vital to follow the manufacturer's specifications and use the right tools and parts for the job. For someone inexperienced with classic cars or carburettors, we reccommend that you use our professional help to ensure the best care for your vehicle.

Convenient Collection and Delivery

Understanding the value of your time, we can arrange collection and return services for your car, truck, motorcycle, or boat (fees apply). Our services cater to both professional repairers and individual vehicle owners. Trust us to handle your Veteran, Brass / Edwardian, Vintage, Pre-War, War era, Post-War, and Classic vehicles, including cars, trucks, motorcycles, carts, marine inboard, outboard motors, and boats.

Carburettor Brands We Service

With over two decades of experience, Finch Powerhouse is proficient in servicing a diverse range of carburettor brands, including:

• AMAL: U.K. carburettors for motorcycles and light industrial engines
• Autolite: U.S. carburettors
• Ball & Ball: U.S. carburettors
• Bendix Stromberg
• Bendix: U.S. carburettors used on Chrysler, International Harvestor, Ford, GM, AMC, and Studebaker
• Bing: carburettors used on motorcycles and boats
• Carter: U.S. carburettors used on Chrysler, International Harvestor, Ford, GM, AMC, and Studebaker and on industrial and agricultural equipment
• Dell'Orto: Italian carburettors used on cars and motorcycles
• Edelbrock: U.S. performance carburettors
• Hitachi: Japanese carburettors
• Holley: U.S. carburettors
• Keihin: Japanese carburettors
• Lectron Fuel Systems: U.S. carburettors
• Magneti Marelli: Italian carburettors
• Marvel Schebler: tractor carburettors
• Mikuni: Japanese motorcycle carburettors
• Reece Fish: Volkswagen, Austin Mini, and Morris Mini carburettors
• Rochester: U.S. carburettors
• Solex: French carburettors
• Stromberg: - U.K. carburettors
• SU carburettors: U.K. carburettors
• Tillotson: carburettors for small engines
• Villiers: UK motorcycle and small engine carburettors
• Walbro: carburettors for small engines
• Weber: Italian/Spanish carburettors
• Zenith: U.K. carburettors used on Austin, Mercedes, Vauxhal, Dodge, and many other cars

Contact us today to schedule a service or learn more about how we can assist with your carburettor needs.