Carb choices
 

Guys, I am at a crossroads, trying to get a new rebuilt Zenith from the vendors is proving to be difficult. My question is, which one is better, Zenith or Tillotson carbs? I can get a Tollotson from Mike's for 550. I think there is a guy near me that can possibly rebuild my Zenith-2. If anyone is in the Canton, MI area and is willing to examine my current carb, (I just did a rebuild on it) That would be great. With the snow and weather my '29 isn't going very far.

Dave

Re: Carb choices
 

I'm sure you will get many opinions, non are wrong. But FWIW, my choice is the Marvel. I think it gives the best mix of easy starting, power, smoothness and reliability.

Re: Carb choices
 

Check out this link...

http://www.snjparts.com/19-Model-A-Carburetors

These guys might be able to help you with choices. All three brands work fine, but personally I prefer the Marvel for a car that's going to be driven regularly. It is a lot less troublesome, has fewer parts to replace, and my car runs outstandly better with the Marvel or the Tillotson. Your choice!

Re: Carb choices
 

I prefer the Tillys over the zenith. just my opinion. Why not send yours to Berts and have them rebuild it?
they are about half the 550. quote you are mentioning.

Re: Carb choices
 

I would start with rebuilding your zenith. Or have it troubleshot. CA Victoria has a good selection with OEM jets, and I will vouch for his work, Look under the for sale listings. I also have a good inventory. Either way we should be able to get you a correct carb.
The pot metal carbs will leak. Think, pot metal, fragile, warping, etc.,

Re: Carb choices
 

wondering if I mis-did one of the jets. Smells rich when running, and I will have to re-clean it as I used Pine-Sol in my ultrasonic cleaner and didn't paint. What paint is recommended on the carbie?

Re: Carb choices
 

Rust oleum automotive. I use carb cleaner in a spray can, with the red plastic extension to chase all the circuits.

Re: Carb choices
 

I have used the Tilly, Zenith, and Marvel. I like Marvel the best and it is what I have on my A.
If a good price is what you are looking for, then go with the Marvel. A completely rebuilt and tested Marvel will cost around $200. Where to get such a deal?

MARVEL SHEMBLER CARBERATOR 903-490-3725
976 COUNTRY ROAD 2310 —[email protected]
Gary Johnston
TEXARKANA, TX 75503 CARBS/EXCELLENT WORK

Re: Carb choices
 

Tilly X was my choice over the Zenith 1 on my truck.

I now have a couple of Marvels I would like to try - and there is a Mochi in my box too which would be fun.

Or possibly the Rayfield (RIF)?

So many carburetors - so many choices.

https://modela.org/other_carbs.html

Joe K

Re: Carb choices
 

Marvel is a better choice. I have a Marvel on both my A's. Both cars run better with the Marvel.

Re: Carb choices
 

I Googled "good carbs" on the internet and this is what it came up with:

• Quinoa. . ...
• Oats. ...
• Buckwheat. ...
• Bananas. ...
• Sweet potatoes. ...
• Beets. ...
• Oranges. ...
• Blueberries.

Re: Carb choices
 

Re: Carb choices
 

I have a Model B Zenith on my A and it runs and idles good.

Re: Carb choices
 

Model A intake manifold? Or Model B - which will take the best advantage of a Model B Carb?

Some have been known to "ream out" the center uptake on an A manifold and get nearly there - without the obvious flat top.

Joe K

Re: Carb choices
 

I agree with Dick M. I had a Zenith carburetor rebuilt by Gary Johnson last year at the recommendation of someone else on this form. He did a great job and tested the carb on his own car. The price was less then most of what has been reported here and his service was quick too.

Re: Carb choices
 

I never realized there were so many Marvel fans. There is no one else in our club that has one (that I know of), besides me.




Marverlous!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Re: Carb choices
 

Joe K, it is a reamed out model A intake. When I purchased the A it had not been enlarged but I have since opened it up.

Re: Carb choices
 

There is a guy on the mafca Website selling restored zenith carbs at a reasonable price.
https://www.mafca.com/cl/cl-p-sale.html

Re: Carb choices
 

I have used Zenith A and B carbs and tillotson carbs on my Fordor. No issues with any. I now have a Marvel. I like it the best for best starting and fuel milage. 19-23 mph as apposed to17-20 with others. Have to open choke nob about 1/2 turn for best mixture.