MTFCA Forum

Hello everyone,

Does anyone have suggestions for cleaning a Stromberg OF that doesn't require disassembling it all the way? A recently acquired T had some old fuel in it and I want to clean the carb without potentially ruining all the adjustments/tuning (done by Stan Howe years ago).

Side question: with Stan's passing, is there anyone that works on these anymore?

Thanks

There are four adjustments you need to worry about. The relative position of the throttle lever to the throttle shaft (do not mess with it) and the total lift of the economizer needle (about 1/8" at full lift) which can be put back in short order if it is removed. High speed needle and idle needles are both standard settings for initial starting of the car and then (if necessary) tuned from there. High speed needle is screwed "in" gently until seated and then unscrewed 2 1/2 turns. The idle needle is screwed "in" gently until seated and then unscrewed 1 turn.

Both the main jet and idle jets have very tiny holes and may or may not be fouled. Removal of the idle jet comes with risk of damage and loss of a very special very tiny gasket. The removal of the main jet is more straightforward but it contains a 1 time use lead gasket, so it is best to avoid removing that as well, if possible.

Addendum: after removing the float bowl cover, do NOT be tempted to remove the tiny jam nut on the top of the rod (covered by acorn nut), nor try to adjust it in any manner, shape or form. This will alter the fuel level and you do not want to do that.

Scott,

Thanks for the tips, I will keep them in mind if/when I attempt further cleaning.

Do you know of anyone that rebuilds or tunes these anymore? Most places I find online that work with Strombergs don't work with anything before the 1940s or so.

I either stock, make, or can make anything on an OF that needs replacing. This is for your information because you are asking for information - it is not a solicitation for work.

Feel free to email me if you run into trouble.

Scott,

I see. Thanks! I will email you if I have a need.