1910 Holley 5 ball carb questions

[RGould1910]

I recently acquired a beautiful 1910 Holley 5 ball and getting ready to try it out. Many thanks to Kim for offering it to me. I'm interested in hearing from others who have run these carbs. How do they perform? How are they primed before starting? Any tips, suggestions, etc. appreciated.

[speedytinc]

There is a choke & tickler.
Are there both pull rods outside the radiator? & how are they differentiated?

[RGould1910]

John, I assume the plunger is for priming before cranking and the choke used if necessary while cranking. On my 1910 style Kingston 5 ball without a plunger, I remove the cap and lift the float before cranking to prime and use the choke sparingly. I agree it's usual to see both on one carb

[RGould1910]

I would think only one choke rod would be used. I don't like to open the hood to prime. I'll attach the rod to the plunger, tickler as you say.

[RGould1910]

I just noticed the choke has a little wear on the lower arm where the rod would insert. The plunger arm has zero wear. Tells me the rod was attached only to the coke. This carb has such little wear overall, I would think what I see is what came from the factory.

[KimDobbins]

Richard, my 1910 T had the same carb, only with a pot metal float bowl. I'd seal the float, that was such a nice carb I never even took it apart until I photographed it for you. To start the engine, I'd depress the float plunger for a few seconds then pull the engine through 4 quarter turns then turn on the battery and it should start. Try 1 turn open on the needle valve.

[Aussie16]

Does the Holley have hidden Balls? I am familiar with the era equivalent, the Kingston 5 ball with its 5 screws to access the balls. I have never heard of the Holley being referred to as a 5ball variant. My education continues.

[AndreFordT]

Hi all,

I don't think this is a five ball carburetor but a HOLLEY #4150 used in 1910. "Judging Guidelines Model T Carburetors Part II picture #4 and #5."

Just my idea.

Andre
Belgium

[RGould1910]

Andre you're correct, the balls are hidden under the top cap which is removable. I also have a 1911 Holley which is different. It has an.air valve with a single heavy weight inside an adjacent chamber.
Thanks for the help, Kim.

[KimDobbins]

The balls are hidden as Richard says, and smaller then the more common Kingston 5 ball.

[RGould1910]

Another beautiful carb Kim. I swear I still don't know how you've acquired so many rare pieces in such remarkable condition!
I spoke with Steve at Langs and he recently acquired a pot metal 1910 Holley like yours but needs a new bowl.
That's not gonna be easy to replace.