I replaced the intake to spacer and carb to spacer gaskets and still have a leak somewhere back here....





I found the leak in this area via spraying starter fluid at idle and the idle would jump.

 

The studs for the carb seem like they are too short and you are not getting enough of the threads to get a proper torque on the nuts. I would get some longer studs and inspect all the mating surfaces to ensure everything is clean and flat. Longer studs or try removing the washers from under the nuts. They didn't have washers from the factory.

 

I assure you they are torqued pretty good. However, I will try your advice.

 

is there a way (spraying) to isolate it further? the exact location.
the gasket in carb looks new as well, maybe that's dodgy?

 

I would get a can with the little straw that goes in the nozzle..That way you should be able to isolate exactly where the leak is when you are spraying.

 

Good idea frdnut and Kalli

 

Oh and since that picture I have rebuilt the carb, so all new gaskets.

 

You should always check for flatness of the mating surfaces. If someone in the past over tightened the the carb then it can bend the ears down and cause leaks. Check the spacer too. Nicks or bumps in the spacer can casue problems. Either way you should really tear it down to see what is going on.

 

Good point. I guess its just a good excuse to upgrade to a 4v! At least thats what Im telling my wife!!!