onan carb questions (float)

3065 Views 8 Replies 6 Participants Last post by mdigby, Dec 17, 2011

mdigby

Discussion Starter · Dec 4, 2011 (Edited)

Well I have a new (to me) GT-18 Hydro 917.257070. It has led a rough life and I'm doing some of the "routine" maintenance that has been ignored for some time.

I disassembled and soaked and cleaned the carb. I reassembled with the old gaskets and float and it ran great, for a while. It now runs like poop.

The next to do items are new fuel line from the filter to the tank, and a float for the carb (it has the "original" foam type float).

I have searched and it is recommended to buy the brass float.

My question is: should I buy the Onan brand float with the assist spring or can I buy the knock-off and get the same results?

The Onan float is about $50 and includes an "assist" spring. http://onanparts.com/index.php?main_page=product_info&cPath=1_12&products_id=287

The "off brand" float is on eBay. It runs about $25. http://www.ebay.com/itm/ONAN-146-0380-CARBURETOR-FLOAT-BF-BG-B-43-B-48-/120821948682?pt=LH_DefaultDomain_0&hash=item1c218ca10a It appears to be compatible, but does NOT have the float spring.

Do I NEED to spend the extra $25 for the spring? Has any one bought the knock-off and then had to replace it with the onan to get it to run right?

I'm torn...

Thanks for your responses.

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Hugh-SS/16

· #2 · Dec 4, 2011

You dont need the spring. My SS/16 never used the spring and it runs mint. I bought $25 dollar one.

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Randy_Linex

· #3 · Dec 4, 2011

Like Hugh said, the spring is not needed. Go with the ebay one, thats what I use and they have worked great.

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SS_Skippy

· #4 · Dec 4, 2011

No spring is needed, it is cheaper directly through the seller's website. http://www.gphope.com/store/cat/57

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mdigby

Discussion Starter · #5 · Dec 4, 2011

Thanks for the help guys.

I'll order a float and get the next step started.

Today, I replaced the clutch pivot bushing, the clutch spring, the clutch pulley and the motor to trans belt.

It is a whole lot better than when I got it, but she ain't a looker.

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boomers_influence

· #6 · Dec 4, 2011

club
the knock off doesn't need the spring.
BECAUSE it is CHEEZY.
too light in weight, and to many fitment problems
where do you think they are made?
thank you. boomer (the used onan engine parts guy)

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Randy_Linex

· #7 · Dec 4, 2011

boomers_influence said:
club
the knock off doesn't need the spring.
BECAUSE it is CHEEZY.
too light in weight, and to many fitment problems
where do you think they are made?
thank you. boomer (the used onan engine parts guy)

Are yours union made that make them so expensive?

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GT_80

· #8 · Dec 4, 2011

Boomer, I have bought three of the "cheezy" ones, all worked perfectly. Just an FYI.

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mdigby

Discussion Starter · #9 · Dec 17, 2011

Thanks for the help guys!

A replacement brass float solves the problem! Now it runs!

(The next step is adjusting the hydro linkage :thThumbsU ) It goes forward and backward, but after reversing,when I put it back in neutral, it continues to reverse! If I then move the lever into the forward range, it will stop.

Either adjustment or worn parts. I'll need to see which. :thanku:

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