Hello,

I have a 1985 F-250 with a 351W. It's been running extremely lean - to the point of fuel starvation and bucking when I try to accelerate. My mechanic (I'm only semi-handy) says the floats are sinking, and I need a new carb. Anyone know a place where I can get a rebuilt carb (or a better fix) for not too much. I'm into this rig less than a grand, so don't want to dump a bunch on it, but REALLY like driving it.

Thanks for your help.

 

I would check some stuff before just buying a new carb. I have seen mechanics take advanatge of people who dont know cars very well. Im not saying thats happening here but its possible. Something very simple is, just adjust the 2 fuel/air mixture screws on the carb. On the older carbs they were in the front. Dont know where they are on a mid-80's V but look around.

 

I can't tell from your post if you want to work on this thing. The floats sinking sounds like something from a crystal ball reader. I would stay away from that mechanic. But, a good mechanic should be able to rebuild or tune the carb you have. If you are stalling on acceleration then adjusting the Idle mixture screws won't help. You could pull a plug and see what it looks like.

 

Is it a 4-barrel? My brother's '85 F-150 has a 351W, 4-barrel, uses a Holley carburetor. I worked on some older Holleys and they're pretty simple to kit and adjust, and IIRC the kit includes a new float. And I can't think of ANYTHING that would require replacing the entire carburetor unless it's been melted or beaten into a paperweight.

 

Welcome to ( FTE ) It sounds like there is dirt in the needle and seat this
controls float level and fuel level you may just pull it and clean and reset.

 

Thanks for the info, folks. I should have mentioned - the carb is a Motorcraft 2-bbl, and I'm not opposed to working on the thing, just inexperienced with the fuel system.

My grandfather (who has a background in drag racing) said he'd be happy to come help me kit the thing... sounds like fun. Any little gremlins in particular to watch out for when getting into these carbs?

 

If the engine is running lean, sinking floats are not you're problem (they would cause a flooding situation). Have you try replacing the fuel filter?
Its been awhile since I rebuilt one of those but they are pretty simple.
Good luck, have fun!
TR.

 

It depends on how the floats stick . If it sticks high it will flood , if it sticks
low it may starve for fuel at times.





P.S. you may check the accelerator pump .

 

Sorry, you're right about the needle possibly sticking. That should definitely be checked out. I was just going by what his mechanic said about the float "sinking".
Keep smiling!
TR.