Solex carb issue?

[Mytwojeeps2020]

I’m starting up fine. I’m getting a good idle, and the engine warms up fine.

But whenever I release the clutch to add power to the drivetrain, the engine sputters, loses power and nearly dies. Applying the choke seems to help, but not much.

I can only move the Jeep a few inches at a time because it starts dying.

I know little about carbs. Could this problem be related to the air/gas mixture? Could an adjustment to the mixture screw resolve this?

Thanks!

PS: I’m running a Solex carb on a ‘64 engine

[SteveKfl]

This may be a silly question, but does it roll OK with no power?  It almost sounds like maybe brakes, especially e-brake, or  maybe a differential may be bound up to be affected only "when the clutch is released"?  An easy point for 'elimination of potentials'.

[Mytwojeeps2020]

Steve, nope, she rolls just fine. When I release the clutch, it’s almost like the power disappears - I have to keep playing with the pedal and the choke to keep it running.

[Rus Curtis]

I’m starting up fine. I’m getting a good idle, and the engine warms up fine.

But whenever I release the clutch to add power to the drivetrain, the engine sputters, loses power and nearly dies. Applying the choke seems to help, but not much.

I can only move the Jeep a few inches at a time because it starts dying.

I know little about carbs. Could this problem be related to the air/gas mixture? Could an adjustment to the mixture screw resolve this?

Thanks!

PS: I’m running a Solex carb on a ‘64 engine

Steve, nope, she rolls just fine. When I release the clutch, it’s almost like the power disappears - I have to keep playing with the pedal and the choke to keep it running.

I've had a similar problem before (way back when I was still in school driving my jeep to classes) with the Carter carb.  I had to use the choke to keep it idling.  In my case it was debris (tank issues).

I don't know much about solex carbs but feel this could be a universal issue with any carb.  When you have to use the choke (carb isn't getting enough fuel for the fuel/air mixture) to make it run, that circuit needs adjusting/cleaning.  What I don't know is which is the problem.  So, I'd offer first the easiest thing is to check the adjustment screw to allow for a slightly richer mixture (1/8 to 1/4 turn "out" only) to see if your power is better.  Next I'd be checking for sediment in the carb bowl or the fuel filter to see if there is ANY that may restrict flow.  If present, cleaning the bowl, replacing the filter or even removing the adjustment screw to blow air out to see if you can clear the obstruction. 

Others with more experience may be able to add or correct anything to help you with troubleshooting.

It may help to review information here (shameless plug - I go to the Tech section first when I'm trying to figure anything out):
https://cj3b.info/Tech/SolexTips.html

[PercyUK]

Hi, I use a solex on my 53 3A and my first thought is a blocked main jet. It is located behind a nut on the front face of the carb. If you undo it the jet will come out attached to the nut, it then unscrews and you can clean it. I would also blow some carb cleaner through the same port that you extracted the jet through and try again. It will only take a minute to do but the engine should be cold when you do it as some fuel will come out at the same time and it's directly above the exhaust. On the jet will be some markings telling you the size ie 1.25, let us know  if it is smaller than that as it could also be the problem.

[scoutpilot]

When was the last full tuneup?

[Mytwojeeps2020]

When was the last full tuneup?

About one running hour ago

[scoutpilot]

Were there any major issues encountered?

[Mytwojeeps2020]

Hi, SP.

no, no issues. It was running fine.

I’ve made earlier posts (over the last few months) on problems with the fuel pump and PCV line, but I think I have those resolved.

I’m beginning to believe that Jeeps come with a Gremlin when they leave the factory...

PS: I gave up today and towed it to a retired mechanic. When I explained the problem, he said “well, that’s a Jeep.” So true.