I took the 4 carbs off my 74 xke and rebuilt them. When I turn the ignition on and the fuel pump runs, gas pours out along the seam where the 2 halves match up and bolt on with the air cleaner. It is the parts that have a pipe that connects the 2 U shaped pieces on the top of the carb when looking from inside the air cleaner with the filter out. The 2 U shaped pieces bolt together, and I have either hooked something up wrong or there should be a gasket between the 2 halves. I have looked at the service manual but it is not well pictured.
Thanks for your help, Jerry Nutt

Submitted by rcmaury@bellso… on Tue, 11/10/2009 - 20:53

Tapping on the side of the carburetor is a sure sign that the float or needle is stuck. Also, if you have no spark, no matter how hard you try, it will not start. The V12 engines are not a problem to keep running. One of the weak points is the OPUS ignition system. There are better systems out there that actually work reliably. Now that you have fuel and it is not spilling over, spark should get it running.

Submitted by Boat54@aol.com on Tue, 11/10/2009 - 20:46

I tapped the side of the carburetor with a hammer and it now does not over flow. The car still will not run, and I have put a new opus transistorized ignition, cleaned the pickup tube in the tank, replaced the fuel filter, replaced the fuel pump, replaced the distributor cap and rotor, new coil, and rebuilt all 4 carbs. It still will not start. I put a timing light on the number 1 plug wire and I do not get any sign of a spark. Also the tachometer does not move when you are trying to start the car. Any insite would be appreciated. Does everyone have a tough time keeping the v12 running? Thanks, Jerry Nutt

Submitted by rcmaury@bellso… on Tue, 11/10/2009 - 14:42

Sounds like the carbs are flooding. From there it is caused by the float not closing. This can be from sticking, to much fuel pressure from incorrect pump or restricted return line on the V12, or the float chamber vent clogged of restricted or very rarely the float itself can sink. Clogging can occur from use of a improper gasket. On the gaskets, make sure that all of the holes on the carb have a corresponding hole on the gasket. The u-shaped pieces mentioned vent the float chamber to the connecting pipes that then connect to the carbon canister. If they are restricted, this can also cause flooding. For diagnosis purposes, take the u-shape pieces off and remove the air filter housings and gaskets. Now try the fuel pump and see if gas still comes out of the carb. If so, then it is in the carb itself. Just a matter of narrowing down the possibilities. Post what you find please.