Weber 32 DCOF?

[Jonathan Webb]

Hello,
This is my first post, so by introduction, I have a S1 1.3 Coupe (as well as a parts car just 2 back on the assembly line, if one is to believe the VIN#s).
There are two new Weber 32 DCOF on ebay at the moment and I am wondering if this would be a good substitute for the stock Solex. My carbs need rebuilding, so a set of new carbs has its appeal.

Also can anyone recommend a source for understanding Weber carb model numbers. I get the number part, but not the significance of the letters that follow.
Thanks to all for a very informative forum.
Jonathan

[Ed Levin]

With all due respect, if you don't understand the letter designations, then you may not fully understand the number designations either.

DCO is Weber's general designation for 2-barrel sidedraft carbs (the last letter of the suffix is a secondary configuration designation). Typically, the numbers are the size of the barrel--not the size of the choke (secondary venturi). For example, a 40 DCOE has 40mm barrels, but takes interchangeable chokes, with a range of 24mm to 36mm; a 45 DCOE has 48 barrels, taking chokes from 28mm to 40mm.

The 32 DCOF is an exception, as it does not take interchangeable chokes. Because of this, it's less flexible than the others in the DCO series. For more details, you can find a set of exploded diagrams for all Weber carbs here:
http://www.piercemanifolds.com/weberexplode.htm

In any case, be careful; the barrel centers on the Webers will probably be different than those of the Solexes, which means that you'll need a different intake manifold. I run Webers on my 1.6 (on a copy of the works Group 4 intake manifold), and I'm very happy with them. But unless you're really committed to make this change, you're probably much better off rebuilding the Solexes. And if you do want to change to Webers, I'd tend to recommend 40 DCOEs (maybe with a 30mm choke) instead of the 32 DCOFs.

[Ed Levin]

typo in my last post--obviously a 45 DCOE has 45mm barrels--not 48mm

[Jonathan Webb]

Ed, thanks for your reply. I checked into the Pierce manifold link and while there found that they are clearing out the 32 DCOFs they have in stock. They have 15 at $75 USD each. That seems to be a pretty great deal if they work for the Fulvia. I'm too much of a novice at this to proceed without more feedback, but maybe someone else is looking for these.

[Ed Levin]

I'm not surprised that they're clearing out 32 DCOFs at fire sale prices; even at $75, I suspect they'll have a lot of trouble moving them. Most people who want Weber sidedrafts wouldn't bother with oddball carbs like 32 DCOFs--they'll go for DCOEs.

Don't get me wrong; I love Webers--on balance I think they're better carbs than Solexes. But unless you're really committed to dealing with some intake and linkage issues, it's probably a much better idea to just rebuild your Solexes. Good luck.

[Stephan]

I'm with Ed. Unless you are building a high performance motor I would just stick with Solexs. If yours are beyond repair check out an Ebay store called ; Alfa 1750,S carburetors parts store. He has rebuilt 32 Solex for $295 a pair. You can then use your manifold and linkage and the jetting is well known.
Overall the Webers are the best carbs due to their versatility, If you must have Webers go with Ed's advice a get DCOEs

[Jonathan Webb]

Again thanks for your thoughts and leads. I'll probably go with the Solex rebuild. I should probably work on the steering links first anyway. It is convenient when the car goes in a straight line rather than turning right everytime you lift off on the throttle. I can hardly wait to get the car sorted. What a fun ride!

[Ed Levin]

Sounds like you've got the priorities straight. On that steering, in addition to the obvious--checking the tie rods and center link--look at the steering idler arm; a friend had the same symptoms, and a worn idler arm bushing was the culprit.