So went to take the car out of the garage and discovered a river of fuel flowing down from the firewall / bell housing area, as best I can tell from looking underneath the car at ground level ( that is, the car was not up in the air)
And it was a heavy flow. Not dripping but running. I checked the fuel line connection at the filter and going from filter to carbs and all was dry. Looking at the fuel line layout I see it runs along the bulkhead and makes a turn down to a union.
What might cause such a high volume leak? I don’t see how the connection would loosen, but I suppose that’s possible. It shouldn’t rust through, as my car is a California car with very little signs of corrosion anywhere. So not sure what to even look for.
Anything you can tighten can loosen so that is a possibility.
If you’re willing to spill some fuel (catch pan, garage door open, no open flames, fire extinguisher at the ready) the source of the leak should be pretty obvious when the fuel pump is running.
Ok. So I found the problem. The middle carb float turned into a submarine. And pushed the fuel out the overflow, which is angled back towards the firewall.
I’m go into to replace all three floats with the plastic versions. Interesting that XKs floats are about $13 ea where sng wants almost 3 times that amount.
I thought I’d order the XX version unless there is a reason I shouldn’t.
I learned about this on my first day owning the E. Drove it home for the first time and parked in the street while I opened the garage and then did not want to start again a few minutes later. Fuel pouring out of the rear carb. Now the first thing I check if it ever starts missing at idle or have hard start is for fuel overflow from a carb.
Bob,
When sourcing new replacement floats make sure they are the newest version, resistant to Ethanol laced fuel! Ask before buying!!! May cost a few dollars more but well worth the piece of mind IMHO.
Bob,
An easy way to stop the flow when a float has sunk is to tap on the float bowl with something like the handle of a plastic screwdriver. Usually it will dislodge whatever is stuck in the valve and allow it to close. At it’s worth a shot.
Wonder how long it will take the usual parts suppliers to source these new Solid Epoxy Floats. Here’s an Aviation video by MSA on how they revolutionized their carburetor line making them much safer and reliable. Goals I believe each and every Jaguar owner strives for…Pretty amazing technology. No more leaking, fuel soaked floats!!!
Comments???
I have used west system epoxy coated corks for replacement of sinking brake, clutch, and fuel sender floats with no sinking for over 20 years. Have never had a sinking fuel bowl float but if I do it will be fixed with either west system or possibly even jb weld.
