Carburetor position?

[426 pack]

After searching the web for carb pictures I seen that there are different carbs pointing different ways. I would like to know if there is a proper carb position or dose it really makes a difference which way they are?

[Ace-Garageguy]

This particular design of carb is usually oriented as in the lower photo. The floats and fuel level in the bowls can be oddly sensitive to G-forces from cornering or hard acceleration in each orientation. Tuning problems can be the result, but it really depends on the particular application.

Also, depending on the intake manifold design, having both chokes (and all the primary throats) on one side could be another problem (though the chokes have been removed from the carbs in the upper photo).

Carbs oriented as in the upper photo would also complicate linkage design to an extent.

Edited February 27, 2018 by Ace-Garageguy

[426 pack]

Thanks ACE.

[Muncie]

two Holley carbs end to end won't fit on the Edelbrock C26 manifold for small block Chevy in the top picture - there is not enough space between the carbs and the Holley float bowls interfere.  The manifold is made to fit with AFB carbs.  The primary carb (AFB)(with choke and opens first) is the rear carb.  Somebody made the Holleys fit with carb adapters to rotate the carbs but on a dual plane dual quad manifold, cross mounted carbs are bad news for distribution in the manifold.

However, on a tunnel ram manifold with an open plenum for racing, I believe the top picture is still the preferred orientation for the carbs.

Edited February 27, 2018 by Muncie

[Lizard Racing]

I agree. There are a lot of options in carb position, mostly dealing with float bowl and linkage position. Your best bet is to research your application and build accordingly.  Remember the modeler's eye for detail!

[Force]

The only wrong way is maybe if you mount them upside down or tilted to one end ...otherwise, if you can get it to work somehow it's not wrong.

Edited February 28, 2018 by Force

[Greg Myers]

 Edelbrock Torker #TM2R Big block Chevy

[Ace-Garageguy]

I've been informed repeatedly that "they're only models, and you can mount carburetors any way you want with no degradation in performance", so I respectfully suggest you mount your Holley and other downdraft 4-barrel (or 2-barrel) carbs upside down and call them updrafts.

They'll be sure to be noticed as "something different" too.