Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1930, good luck jack, gravity feed


Question
I know you only work on Ford's, however, my 30 studebaker may be set up similarly.  I had to replace the float chamber needle valve.  I did, and now I am having difficulty getting gas to flow to the carburetor.  When I take the float chamber cover off and fill the carb with gas it starts perfectly and runs until the gas leaves the chamber.  Would you have a solution for me?

Thank you for any help you may be able to provide.

Dan

Answer
This should be easy to track down.  Get it apart and blow through it and make sure all is clear.  Make sure the needle unseats with just gravity.  The float may be sticking in the up position.  Make sure that is free.  On a model A, where the fuel line goes in to the carb, there is a small filter screen.  If the line goes too far in, it can hit the screen and reduce flow too much.  Make sure there is nothing like that on your system.  I assume it is gravity feed.  Could be rust in the tank near the pick up.  Get things flowing and then start connecting things and checking that you still have flow.  I'm sure you will find it, then you can have fun with that car.  Be sure to drive it a lot.  That's the best thing you can do to keep it running good.
Good luck
jack