Topic: Checking Fuel Level With Glass Float Bowl

[DaveBarbier]

Checking float height and fuel level this weekend and decided to try using a glass float bowl (rocks glass). I remember discussing this method a while ago and have seen others talking about putting in a sight glass in the bowl. Just wanted to actually try it out. Worked very well. I personally like it better than using a clear tube as long as you have the carbs on the bench.

I was filling the bowl slowly because I wanted to make sure the other carb’s float wasn’t stuck and going to overflow.

[ekpent]

 I can smell the fumes from here ! Looks like a good way to get a full visual if a person wanted to go that way.

[DaveBarbier]

Avoid smoking during this operation.

[ekpent]

 As hard as those smaller bore 350-550cc Honda carbs are to get back on the bike with the stock airbox its a very smart idea to fill them on the bench to check for leaks before mounting. No fun getting surprises when you think you have it all buttoned up.

[rotortiller]

The fuel level will often be higher when the bike is running and vibrating. This can be demonstrated with a clear tube method by checking the bowl level and rapping lightly on the float bowl with a screwdriver handle or checking while running the bike. Nothing beats in service checks.

[flatlander]

are you implying that your next build will follow a whiskey bar theme? 

[DaveBarbier]

are you implying that your next build will follow a whiskey bar theme? 

Not a bad idea. Maybe I can get Noddy78 to do some wood finishing, haha

[754]

  Lectron carbs came with clear bowls..

[carnivorous chicken]

  Lectron carbs came with clear bowls..

So did the Honda Cuby!

[BenelliSEI]

Learned something new today! Great idea! I will try this, next opportunity. Thanks.

[Medyo Bastos]

Yeah, I run shot glasses in stead of carb bowls so I can look down as I’m riding and make sure they’re all even Steven!


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[Tom C]

Great post!

However, I prefer to fill my rocks glasses with this:

[DaveBarbier]

Great post!

However, I prefer to fill my rocks glasses with this:

Tom, I 100% agree. Rittenhouse is my go to rye! Inexpensive and delicious.

[grcamna2]

I remember working on an automobile carburetor once and noticed that it had a round inspection window built into the bowl.That would be a nice thing to have had on many carbs. 
Was a 70's Datsun B210.

[DaveBarbier]

I remember working on an automobile carburetor once and noticed that it had a round inspection window built into the bowl.That would be a nice thing to have had on many carbs. 

I was thinking of that too, but with these carbs the fuel level should be very close to the bowl seam, like 3-4mm. The sight glass would have to be right at the top and the glass likely be part of the sealing surface. I’m sure it could be done but I’m just saying an inspection on the side in the middle of the carb body wouldn’t show anything other than a sticking float.

[WhyNot2]

When working on carbs in a vice like that, do you have to use gas, or can you use water, as long as it dries out before reinstalling on the bike?

[rotortiller]

Specific gravity of gas is 0.713.

[DaveBarbier]

When working on carbs in a vice like that, do you have to use gas, or can you use water, as long as it dries out before reinstalling on the bike?

As rotortiller said, the specific gravity is different so you need to use gas. The floats will float higher or lower in fluids with different specific gravities.

[grcamna2]

are you implying that your next build will follow a whiskey bar theme? 

Not a bad idea. Maybe I can get Noddy78 to do some wood finishing, haha

How about a tap on a bar made from a carburetor body   

[DaveBarbier]

are you implying that your next build will follow a whiskey bar theme? 

Not a bad idea. Maybe I can get Noddy78 to do some wood finishing, haha

How about a tap on a bar made from a carburetor body 

Now you’re thinking! I want to go to a bar and when I need a refill I’ll say that my float height needs adjusting, haha.

But seriously, I need to find a sohc4 inspired bar.

[grcamna2]

are you implying that your next build will follow a whiskey bar theme? 

Not a bad idea. Maybe I can get Noddy78 to do some wood finishing, haha

How about a tap on a bar made from a carburetor body 

Now you’re thinking! I want to go to a bar and when I need a refill I’ll say that my float height needs adjusting, haha.

But seriously, I need to find a sohc4 inspired bar.

You going to use that deep glass 'float bowl' ? 

[flatlander]

are you implying that your next build will follow a whiskey bar theme? 

Not a bad idea. Maybe I can get Noddy78 to do some wood finishing, haha

How about a tap on a bar made from a carburetor body 

Now you’re thinking! I want to go to a bar and when I need a refill I’ll say that my float height needs adjusting, haha.

But seriously, I need to find a sohc4 inspired bar.

it will be too hard to find one. better build your own. you're half way there already!

[dave500]

i tried using a glass like that but the ice cubes fouled on the float!

[Old Moe Toe]

  Lectron carbs came with clear bowls..

Would have thought some enterprising someone would make clear bowls to fit the sohc's.
They sound cool.

[WhyNot2]

When working on carbs in a vice like that, do you have to use gas, or can you use water, as long as it dries out before reinstalling on the bike?

As rotortiller said, the specific gravity is different so you need to use gas. The floats will float higher or lower in fluids with different specific gravities.

Thanks guys....