Re: BigKev's 1954 Packard Clipper Deluxe Sedan

Posted by Owen_Dyneto On 2011/1/12 12:09:54

Hi Jerome. Not sure what you mean by leaking at the "linkage" but leaking at the throttle shaft can and often is a sign of the throttle shaft and/or the carburetor base shaft holes being worn excessively, and this is something that a rebuild kit will not address. Normally the base must be drilled, bushings installed, and a new or replacement throttle shaft installed. Even w/o the leaking issue, wear at the shaft can make an engine run poorly as it's a route for reduced vacuum in the venturi.

You should be able to tell if this is a problem just by a good wiggle test. It's also possible that something like a leaking or sunk float or defective needle and seat could cause leaking there. The latter would be addressed by a rebuild kit, but not the former.

I think you've just got to take it apart and see what you've got to work with before deciding on what course to take. Good carb rebuilders will drill/ream and install throttle shaft bushings when needed, but its also not a hard job for a good home-machinist.