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Classic/Antique Car Repair/1955 packard 4 bbl rochester carb

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Expert: - 9/12/2009


Question
I've had carb rebuilt twice in a year. It runs fine for a while and the same problem comes back(it won't start). Last night I poured gas in the carb and it started and after adjustment it idled fine. This morning I started and couldn't get it to idle, it stalled and now won't start. I'm getting good gas flow and checked the timing, points, condensor, and plugs. When I pump the gas pedal, am i suppose to see a spray of gas from the jets? I'm not seeing it. Is it time for a new carb?

Answer
It sounds like either the needed parts were not replaced, or dirt is being drawn up from the fuel tank, or poor workmanship. But the carburetor should be be able to be overhauled and make the car run well. I would go back at the carburetor like a CSI job checking everything. I like to open carburetors that still have the galoline in them. That gives me a clue at the problems.
Brad

Classic/Antique Car Repair

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Brad Sears

Expertise

All automotive including antique and collectible. However if the car has been modified I can only answer in general terms and maybe get you pointed in the right direction.

Experience

Automotive tech instructor. Syndicated auto columnist 1970's though the early 1990's. Syndicated auto radio talk show, Ask Brad About cars, CBS Radio 70's through 90's TV Show "Last Chance Garage" 1980's PBS-TV syndicated. Auto instructor for the following companies: Fram Autolyte Holly Carter AMF Ford Motor University Of Conn Blue Hills Technical School Sugar River Technical Center Grew up in a family garage in Needham Mass and turned wrenches from the age of 14.

Publications
Manchester Union Leader, Nashua Telegraph, Motor Service Magazine, Yankee Magazine, Popular Mechanics (Saturday Mechanic early 80's), Los Angeles Times, New York Times, and lots more.

Education/Credentials
More than I care to remember. Basically Franklin Technical Institute in Boston, Northeastern University, Fitchburg State Teachers College, Tufts University, and a lot of factory schools along the way.

Awards and Honors
Moto Award winner. And much more.

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