If I don't start my 57 car for 10 days or more (as in winter storage) the fuel seems to drain back, as it all but disappears from the clear in line filter. Also the float bowl, on the 2 bbl Holley, becomes low or empty. That is probably not helped by the float bowl vent, but is there a check of any sort in a Y-block fuel pump? I've resorted to manual priming to avoid running my battery down, when I'm not driving it regularly. Any ideas? Thanks

Paul

Paul.  The fuel line from the carb to the pump can be draining back depending upon the condition of the check valve in the fuel pump but it’s doubtful that the fuel in the carburetor bowl is being siphoned out as a result.

 

Which two barrel carb do you have?  You said ’57 so I’m assuming a model 2300 Holley.  On that model, primary thing to look for would be a leaking power valve that’s draining back into the cavity in the main body behind the power valve.  I’d try a new power valve and gasket first.  Be sure the gasket is correct for the power valve as there are two styles of gaskets. Of secondary consideration would be the use of a cork gasket behind the metering block and that is allowing fuel slowly weep out the fuel through the gasket from the metering block passage ways.  Using a gasket made from the new generation of gasket materials instead of the original cork would fix any 'weeping' issues.

Lorena, Texas (South of Waco)

Ted, Paul,

My 56 does the exact same thing and has done it since I've owned it. I just thought it was normal. I have a clear glass filter between my fuel pump and my Holley 4150 carb. if it sits for more than a day the fuel filter is dry. I attributed this to the fact that the carb has an open air vent in the top of the bowl, so I just figured that this would break the vacuume in the fuel line and cause it to drain back. When starting the car, I would have to pump the gas pedal as I turn it over, but it catches after a few seconds.

Rob

I love the smell of burning rubber in the morning!