QuestionJohn;
I did test the float even though I felt that it was not the problem and verified that it was OK. For the record this carb uses the two piece needle and seat kit, square cross section O ring seat and an aluminum needle. I talked with a couple of small engine mechanics here locally and found that they have been experiencing problems with the aftermarket needle and seat kits that are being sold. After the Stens part failed to correct the leaking carb I purchased a second kit of different manufacture and installed it. Unfortunately this kit also continued the leaking problem. Spoke with the mechanics again today and they told me that they at times have gone through as many as four (4) kits to finally get a good one. I was able to purchase a third kit and installed it tonight after work. Success at last!!! Only a day late for the 12 plus inches of snow that we got but I am ready for the next dumping. Ouch, my aching back! I will only use OEM parts for my carbs from now on. A lesson learned the hard way. I thought that I was losing my mind over such a simple problem. I always say that I do not need help to make myself look bad. You may want to keep in mind the use of non OEM parts for other people that you help. Thank you for your quick response to my question. It was really appreciated.
Mike
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The text above is a follow-up to ...
-----Question-----
John;
I have the above Ariens thrower and when I brought it out of storage this past weekend and refilled the fuel tank the fuel continues to come out of the throat of the carb. This thrower has a Tecumseh 8hp engine on it. I have since replaced the needle and seat assembly but without success. The needle and seat kit were a Stens product. I can not see that a rebuild of the carb would help as the engine runs fine other than extremely rich from the leaking carb/needle/seat. It will not idle for long as the engine dies from the over rich condition. If I lightly hold the float up without the bowl on the fuel stops. The float does not appear to have any fuel in it so I am reasonably sure it is ok. Here are the Model and Serial #s off of the shroud:
Model#HM80-155276K
S/N 5318D
I am the original purchaser of this unit. We in this part of the country are running the mandated refomulated gasoline with ethanol. I do'nt know if this is a contributor or not to the problem. I may buy a float just to see if this helps but I really do not want foolishly throw money at it.
Any thoughts on this would be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance!
Mike
-----Answer-----
Hello Mike:
Remove the Float and Using Needle Nose Pliers and Sink the Float in a Small Container of Gas. Watch for Bubbles and when you Remove the Float from the Gas; Shake the Float. You should be Able to Tell if Gas has Gotten into the Float. Did the New Needle and Seat have the Single Needle with a Black Tip or the 2 Piece Needle and Seat? If the Needle was the One Piece, then Purchase the 2 piece Needle and Seat and Install it. The Seat in the Carburetor May be Pitted and causing the Problem. If this is the case the 2 Piece Needle and Seat will Cure the Problem. Hope this Helps. I am here if you Require more Assistance. Let me know what Happens, Please. Thanks. Be Safe.
Good Luck
Respectfully
John
PS: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (:-))
Answer Hello Mike:
Great !!! I'm Glad it Going. Now Did the Mechanics tell you About the Ridge on the Aftermarket Needle and Seat Kits. The Seat is Flat on 1 End and there is a Raised Ridge on the Other End. The Flat End Goes into the Housing First. The Seat is a 1 Way Fit. If Installed Incorrectly you May have the Problem you Described. Once Again I am Very Glad you Got it Going. Till Next Time. May the All Mighty Bless You and Yours. Thanks for the E-Mail Update. Be Safe.
Best Wishes and Good Luck
Respectfully
John
PS: Merry Christmas and Happy New Year (:-))
