Packard Forum Index » Post-War (1946-54)

Hello all,

Since the carb is all freshened up, I thought it would be a good idea to replace both carb base gaskets while I was at it.

I was hesitant to pull the base insulator because I was afraid it would brake due to it's age. Well... It broke...

So, I'm going to order a new one from Max Merritt. While I was poking around on their site, I noticed the factory style base gasket design.

It looks as though, there is a cutout where the two holes of the base insulator line up to. I also looked under the carb and it looks like there is a channel or cutout on it as well.

Does anyone know what the purpose of this channel or cutout is for?

Thank you,

-Chris

Attach file:

---

  Base Gasket.jpeg (31.49 KB)


  Base Insulator.jpeg (27.88 KB)

Once upon a time exhaust gas was to come up through and heat the bottom of the carb to prevent icing around the idle jets on cold damp mornings. That is why carburated cars will often get fussy and stall in the middle of the warmup cycle if the conditions are unfavorable.

With modern gas, you do not need to heat your carburetor.

Hey Ross,

Thanks for the response. That's pretty interesting. I figured it had to be for something, I just couldn't figure it out for the life of me.

Anywho, I went ahead and ordered both of the gaskets and a new insulator. Hopefully she'll be purrin' like a kitten soon enough.

Thanks again,

-Chris