Testing Holley Plastic Floats: A Step-By-Step Guide

how to test holley plastic floats

Holley plastic floats are available in black and white. They are also known as Duracon floats and are used in Holley 1850 Cobra Replica carburetors. They do not have external adjustments, and their float adjustments vary for the different types of floats. The float level can be adjusted by turning the adjusting nut clockwise or anticlockwise to lower or raise the float level, respectively. The fuel level should stabilize just below the level of the fuel bowl sight plug hole. The Duracon float setting must be higher to compensate for less fuel in the fuel bowl.

Characteristics Values
Float adjustments Vary for different types of floats
Duracon (plastic) float colour White
Nitrophyl float colour Off-white
Fuel level Should be at the bottom of the hole
Fuel level (according to instruction book) Halfway mark in the middle of the sight glass
Fuel level (according to Holley YouTube video) Bottom of the hole
Fuel level (according to other users) Middle with no issues
Fuel level (for race cars) Middle of the sight glass
Fuel level (for street cars) Bottom edge of the hole
Dry setting for Duracon center hung float (primary side) .3125" (5/16")
Dry setting for Duracon center hung float (secondary side) .3750" (3/8")
Dry setting for Duracon side hung float (primary side) .2188" (7/32")
Dry setting for Duracon side hung float (secondary side) .3125" (5/16")

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Identifying the type of Holley plastic float

Holley plastic floats are available in two types: Nitrophyl and Duracon. Nitrophyl floats are the most common type, used with gasoline in naturally aspirated and blow-through forced induction systems. They are typically used in Holley's 2-bbl and 4-bbl performance carburetors, which come in center- and side-hung designs. Duracon floats, on the other hand, are identified by their white colour and are also known as plastic floats. They are less common and have a different dry setting than Nitrophyl floats.

To identify the type of Holley plastic float you have, you can refer to the Holley technical data and guidelines. The data provides specific information on the float settings and adjustments for each type of float. For example, the dry setting for Nitrophyl floats is 13/64 inch on the heel of the float, while for Duracon plastic floats, it is 5/16 inch. Additionally, you can visually inspect the colour of the float, as Duracon floats are known to be white.

It is important to identify the correct type of Holley plastic float as the float adjustments vary depending on the type. The float level settings can be adjusted according to the guidelines, ensuring that the gas barely dribbles out of the bottom of the plug hole. This adjustment process is crucial for optimal performance and to prevent issues such as overflowing float bowls.

Some Holley carburetors may also use brass floats or a combination of different float types. Brass floats are typically used with alcohol or methanol fuels and are compatible with carbs that use these fuel types. It is recommended to refer to the Holley technical data and guidelines to ensure the correct float type and settings for your specific application.

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Adjusting the float level

First, it is important to prepare your workspace and gather the necessary tools. Place your carburetor in a safe area with good ventilation and have something ready to catch any fuel that exits the float bowl. It is also recommended to have a fire extinguisher nearby as a safety precaution.

Next, determine the type of fuel pump you have, as this will influence the adjustment process. If you have an electric fuel pump, turn it on and let it run. Then, gently rock the fender of the car before checking the fuel level in the float bowl. If the fuel level is too high, it will spill out, and if it is too low, the engine may run out of fuel.

Now, you can make the necessary adjustments to the float level. To lower the float level, loosen the lock screw and turn the adjustment nut clockwise. To raise the float level, turn the adjustment nut counter-clockwise. Make small adjustments until the desired fuel level is reached.

Once the fuel level is correct, tighten the lock screw to secure the adjustment. If your carburetor has a sight glass or plug, ensure that the fuel level is just below the bottom of the sight hole. If you have a Duracon float, it should be set higher than a brass or nitrophyl float to avoid the carburetor running leaner.

Finally, wipe down the area and double-check that the fuel level is correct and stable. Ensure that all hardware, such as the lock screw and adjustment nut, are secure.

It is important to note that this process may vary slightly depending on the specific type of Holley carburetor you have. Some newer models have built-in sight glasses or windows, allowing for easier fuel level observation. Always refer to the manufacturer's instructions or seek professional guidance if you are unsure about any steps.

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Dry setting for Duracon centre-hung float

To test Holley plastic floats, you must first determine the type of float you have. Duracon (plastic) floats are white, while Nitrophyl floats are off-white.

Now, to specifically address the dry setting for Duracon centre-hung floats:

The Duracon float setting must be higher compared to other floats to compensate for the carburetor running leaner due to less fuel in the fuel bowl. For a Duracon centre-hung float, the primary side setting is .3125" (5/16"), measured with the fuel bowl inverted, at the middle of the float. The secondary side setting is .3750" (3/8"), measured with the fuel bowl inverted, at the middle of the float (back side).

It's important to note that the float adjustments vary for different types of floats. The procedure for adjusting the float level involves starting the vehicle, moving it to an open and well-ventilated area, and allowing the idle to stabilize. Then, turn off the engine and remove the sight plug from the primary fuel bowl to inspect the fuel level. If adjustments are required, loosen the lock screw with a large screwdriver and use a 5/8" open-end wrench to turn the adjusting nut—turn it clockwise to lower the float level and counter-clockwise to raise it. Finally, tighten the lock screw, restart the vehicle, and reinspect the fuel level after stabilization.

Additionally, Holley provides two methods for float adjustment: internal (dry) setting and external (wet) setting. The internal float adjustment is done with the fuel bowl off the carburetor, inverting the bowl, and adjusting the float tang or tab until the float surface is parallel to the bowl surface. The external adjustment involves inverting the bowl and turning the adjusting nut to achieve the same parallel float surface.

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Wet setting for Duracon float

The wet setting for a Duracon float is an external float adjustment. This means that the adjustment is made with the fuel bowl on the carburettor. Duracon floats ride higher on the fuel than brass or nitrophyl floats, and therefore a higher setting is required.

To perform a wet level float adjustment, start the vehicle and move it to an open area with plenty of ventilation. The float level can be used as a fine-tuning tool, with adjustments of 1 or 2 flats up or down changing the mixture slightly and affecting the 'turn-on point' of the main circuit. The fuel level should be set so that it is just below the level of the fuel bowl sight plug hole.

The instruction book for the Holley 770 Ultra Avenger states that the fuel level should be kept at the halfway mark in the middle of the sight glass. However, a Holley YouTube video recommends that the level should be at the bottom of the hole, just a little out. Some people prefer to keep the level in the middle of the glass to make it easier to see.

It is important to note that the clear site plug is to be used for tuning purposes only, as there have been problems with them melting from engine heat.

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Troubleshooting common issues

If your Holley plastic float is acting up, there are several things you can do to troubleshoot and resolve the issue.

Firstly, check for any physical damage to the float itself. Disassemble the fuel bowl and inspect the float for any signs of damage or debris that could be causing the issue. A stuck float could be due to something obstructing its path, such as the little plastic fuel diffuser piece. Check that all components are in the correct position and that there is no binding or something "hanging" the secondary float.

If the float appears intact and is not stuck, the next step is to check the fuel level. Remove the sight plug and inspect the fuel level. If it is too high or too low, you will need to adjust the float level accordingly. To lower the float level, turn the adjustment screw clockwise, and to raise it, turn the screw counter-clockwise.

It is also important to ensure that your fuel pressure is within the recommended range for your Holley carburettor, as incorrect pressure can affect float adjustment.

If you are still experiencing issues, try fine-tuning your settings. Perform a test drive and pay attention to any signs of flooding, hesitation, or rough idling. Make small, incremental changes to the float levels until performance improves.

Finally, regular maintenance is key to keeping your Holley carburettor in top shape. Inspect the float levels regularly, clean the carburettor to prevent dirt and debris from interfering with the float's movement, and always use high-quality fuel to minimise contaminants and reduce the risk of clogging or damage to the float system.

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