How does this float and pin look? Maybe coat it with dope and see if it floats? This carb is far different from anything I've known. Is there anything else I should look out for to avoid a train wreck?
As you found out, the TN carb is a bit of a different beast. I know the first time I opened one up I asked for pointers.
This site is about the best help you could get, rather than typing out a lengthy post, Ill simply copy and paste.
Those floats are easily made, harder to actually find. They dont sell rebuild kits for the TN. Even the impeller is no longer available. I took an impeller out of a newer 5.5 and ported out the center a little to let it fit the TN shaft.
I have a couple of corkers re-coated with fuel-proof dope in two engines for a couple of years. I also have a re-coated one that has been floating in a jar of 10% ethanol 50:1 mix for a year and it doesn't seem to be sinking.....
Yea, that one in the picture above, if it's cleaned up and treated right, I think it'll do okay. I have several oldies with cork floats, including a 1947 Sea King 5hp and it's doing just fine.
I have tried a few different concoctions by coating old floats then letting them sit in a jar filled with fuel for a couple months to see how they hold up. Have not tried Gasoila or finger nail polish. The model airplane dope seems to hold up the best so far. I know some guys use the finger nail polish on the welch plugs on the carb, so I cant see it breaking down, but who knows.
