Zenith 26 VA choke

[Old Dave]

  When I bought my 1932 RN a few years back, it took me a while to realise that the choke return spring on the 26 VA carb had been repaired by Messers Heath & Robinson at some point. The standard spring was broken and half of what was left was still in place. It worked well enough.

Anyway - that temporary external arrangement finally gave way last week and I thought it was time to replace with the correct spring(s) - I mean how difficult can that be??

I stripped the cover off carefully and the components do look similar to those shown on the diagram shown (widely found on a search)     - it would be nice to have the list of what the numbered items are, but that's just me.

The main section numbered 16 and the actuating lever are pressed together as a severe interference-fit with the broken spring trapped in between. My questions are -

1. Do I just use brute-force and ignorance to separate this item and having replaced the spring re-press the parts together- being careful with the matching flat section? Pressing together with a vice seems OK, but getting it apart??!!

2. If I complete that - it is fairly obvious where the one end of the spring (no.18) goes on the actuating lever but where does the other end purchase against to supply the compression of the spring?

I have stared at this for quite a while and it isn't obvious to me. A couple of pics of the actual item
       

Hope you can help me

[David Stepney]

The choke should come off the brass sleeve with a couple of small screwdriver as levers. The components should be just a good push fit.

The other end of the spring bears against the inside of the shroud (the circular bit that goes over the air intake.)

[Ian Wegg]

- it would be nice to have the list of what the numbered items are, but that's just me.

The Zenith Service Bulletin has the list, plus a lot of useful technical notes on the back.



I don't think there's a version online but you can buy them cheaply, I got mine from a7c.co.uk

[Old Dave]

Thanks David, I will have to be a bit more forceful !! I will order the new springs and get the job done.

Thanks again. I was through Bala last week, fond memories of sailing at the club 30 years ago.

Take care

---

Thanks for tip Ian, I will get a copy ordered.
Take care

[John Mason]

When I did mine I managed to fiddle the spring over the short end piece and by using a circular motion to wind the spring on. The spring stretches a bit but return to its correct shape one in place. Just work out you have it in the correct position before finally winding on to completion.

John Mason.

[Old Dave]

Hi John,

Thanks for your message. I had considered having a go without taking the two parts apart. The half spring still in residence might need sawing or grinding off.

I will have a try when the replacement springs arrive. otherwise it will be brute force to separate the two bits.

Thanks again

Dave