1966 Mercedes 230 Carburetor Issues

Hello all, this is my first post. I have a 1966 Mercedes 230 that has been my daily driver since 1999. It was my first car, and i'm the only one in my circle of friends that has kept the same car in these three years. Anyway, when i recieved the car, i got the carburetors (solex, not zenith, it's a 66') rebuilt, and it ran beautifully for three years. I've driven it for more than 40,000 miles since i've had it. Anyway, one of the carburetors has an air leak, and makes a loud hissing noise. The car has lost about 10-20% of it's total power (all cylinders have compression, i've tested it), and my fuel economy isn't as good. The car randomly idles well, but i usually have to tap the gas when i'm at stop signs, and it can be very difficult because it's a four speed, so it can sometimes be difficult to tap the gas, let go of the clutch, throw it in neutral, press the brake. Gahh. Anyway, the frustration is mounting and i want new carburetors (or a really good rebuild?). what do you guys reccomend i do? Buy webbers? Where can i go to get new carburetors for the car? Will the zenith carburetors used in later model 230s (late 66 until the end of production) fit my engine (M180)? Thanks. Any input will be appreciated.

Ohhh, I don't think you want to do that. The Webers are expensive and the zeniths are a PITA. sound like a vacuum hose has popperd off or a diaphram has sprung a leak if it ran beautiful for 3 years they can't have gone that bad all of a sudden, its probably just one thing on them that has failed. I don't know them well enough to say what but stick with the devil you know.

...Unless you want to trade me for my Zeniths .

Mark

[Douglas Broome]

You can get rebuild kits or have them rebuilt. contact will Samples who does both. But, first, as suggested check all vacuum lines and hoses for leaks. Perhaps simply replace all rubber sections of the vacuum lines as a precaution, then see what gives. Also, might the rubber sections of the fuel lines be so old that they allow small amounts of air to be sucket into the fuel system beginning at the tank then going forward?

[Mark DiSilvestro]

Sometimes a power brake booster can start to fail and cause an 'invisible' vacuum leak.
You can disconnect and plug the vacuun source at the intake manifold to check.

Happy Motoring, Mark

do any of you know of reputable carburetor rebuilders in the southern california (los angeles) area?