Triumph Spitfire Carburetors
by Bob Sykes,
s1500@worldnet.att.net
Wondering what carburettors can be fitted to a Spitfire? The four
most often used are:
- Zenith Stromberg CD 150
- SU HS4 (as a pair)
- Weber DGAV
- Weber DCOE
There are many variations of each type of carb produced.
Zenith Stromberg CD150
Stromberg CD150″
The Zenith Stromberg CD150 series fitted as stock to later North American market Spitfires. Not the best “performance” choice. Many of the subassemblies are not adjustable or rebuildable. Lots of attached hoses and fittings. Early ZS carbs were manual choke. Later ones used a water heated auto-choke. Also shown here is the giant air filter / thermostatic air control contrivance.
SU HS4 (as a pair)
The twin SU HS series fitted to UK home market cars are my favourite. Elegant in their simplicity, they are easily rebuilt and tuned. Shown are the “stubby dashpot” HS4s. They have been converted to non-waxstat jets. K&N chrome air filters make a nice finishing touch.
Weber DGAV
Downdraught”
For added performance and reliability, the Weber DGAV is a good choice. Being a down-flow carb, it adds a ‘merican (two-barrel progressive) touch to your LBC. Set it and forget it, virtually maintenance free.
Weber DCOE
For WOT power and performance, the Weber DCOE. Single 45 model shown here, but duals can be fitted permitting each cylinder to be tuned individually. Can be tuned for a wide range of operating parameters but tuning requires parts (jets, chokes, emulsion tubes etc). This can get expensive. To realize to full power potential of this carb, it should be fitted in conjunction with other engine mods. (free flow exhaust, up-rated cam grind etc.)
Comparison photos of each carb are available in a choice of view angles other than the right view shown on this page: