fits make: Studebaker. year: 1946–1952.

( Brand: Carter ), ( Manufacturer Part Number: 715S ), ( Type: Carburetor ), ( Oe/oem Part Number: 1947 1948 1949 1950 1951 )
Introducing the Carter Wanderer 1-barrel carburetor, a classic automotive component that graced the 6-cylinder engines of Studebaker vehicles from 1946 to 1952. The Carter 715S carburetor is a single-barrel carburetor, meaning it utilizes a single throttle barrel in contrast to the more complex double-barrel or quadruple-barrel designs. This specific model was a popular choice for its balance between simplicity and performance during the post-war automobile boom.
The Carter 715S 1-barrel carburetor features a traditional design with an external rich/lean mixuring and throttle control setup. It is equipped with a floated, diaphragm-type fuel bowl, which produces consistent fuel delivery to the engine. The carburetor comes with a lever-arm located on the throttle shaft that adjusts the fuel mixture based on the driver's input: turning the throttle opens up the primary metering jets, allowing more fuel to enter, while closing the throttle closes the jets to reduce fuel flow.
This 1940s and early 1950s Studebaker carburetor is built with a marketed "Quadrant" needle and seat assembly. The needle operates a circular needle jet on the underside of the power valley, which mixes the air and fuel and runs it through the secondary metering jets. The 715S carburetor's design focuses on enriching the fuel mixture during deceleration and idling, ensuring a smoother driving experience and steady power output.
Another unique aspect of the Carter 715S 1-barrel carburetor is its manual choke system. Engaging the choke activates the choke cone, which restricts the intake air flow and allows the engine to draw in a richer fuel-air mixture during starting. When the engine is warmed up, the choke is disengaged to allow a normal idle and combustion process.
The Carter 715S 1-barrel carburetor for the Studebaker 6-cylinder engines is a well-engineered product of its time, and remains a desirable component for automotive enthusiasts who appreciate historic cars from the period. This carburetor offers maintained engine performance, power, and a small-town charm, as well as the simplicity and techically-sound design elements that make it a reliable and attractive choice for collectors and restorers.
The Carter WCFB (Wide Combat Fuel Bearer) 1-barrel carburetor was a common carburetor used on various American automobiles including Studebaker's 1946-1952 6-cylinder engines. Here are some pros and cons of installing a Carter 715 on your Studebaker:
Pros:1. Widely Available: The Carter 715 is a popular aftermarket replacement for the original vacuum-operated carburetors used on Studebaker 6-cylinder engines during this time. The availability and accessibility of replacement parts make it easier and more cost-effective for owners to maintain their vehicles.
2. Improved Performance: The Carter 715 is known for its smooth dynamic response, better fuel mixture distribution, and overall improved performance compared to the original vacuum-operated carburetors.
3. Easier to Tune: The Carter 715 is considered easier to tune and modify, providing better fuel mixture adjustability which results in enhanced performance and reduced drivability issues.
4. Larger Air Filter: The Carter 715 features a larger air filter which contributes to improved air flow and better idling. The larger filter also needs less frequent replacement.
5. Fuel Economy: By providing better fuel mixture distribution, the Carter 715 can potentially help improve fuel economy, resulting in cost savings over time for Studebaker owners.
Cons:1. Complexity: Despite being more reliable and easier to tune compared to the original carburetors, the Carter 715 can still be a complex system for novice car enthusiasts or Studebaker owners who are not familiar with mechanical fuel systems. This could lead to a greater learning curve and potential frustration during the installation process.
2. Cost: While the Carter 715 may prove to be more cost-effective in the long run due to its accessibility to aftermarket parts, purchasing and installing the carburetor can be an upfront investment. Moreover, associated installation costs could add to the total expense.
3. Customization: Given the popularity of the Carter 715 within the Studebaker community, it's worth noting that some Studebaker enthusiasts may not prefer the look or feel of the aftermarket carburetor in their vintage vehicles, as it may appear less original.
4. Compatibility: The Carter 715 may require specific adapters or modifications, depending on the particular year and engine of your Studebaker. This can add additional time and complexity to the overall installation process.
5. Potential Differing Vacuum Requirements: The Carter 715 might have different vacuum requirements compared to the original carburetor, leading to vacuum-related issues such as a rich or lean fuel mixture. This could necessitate additional tuning or modifications to rectify.
In conclusion, the Carter 715 1-barrel carburetor offers Studebaker owners several advantages such as improved performance, fuel economy, and better parts availability when compared to the original vacuum-operated carburetors. However, this upgrade comes with some potential downsides, including complexity, upfront costs, issues related to customization, and compatibility challenges.
If you are familiar with carburetor installation and tuning, or are seeking a significant improvement in performance and drivability, the Carter 715 could be an excellent choice. For others who value maintaining the originality of their vintage Studebaker and have a lower budget, it might be wiser to stick with the factory-installed carburetor or consider other upgrades that don't involve such a complex fuel delivery system. Ultimately, it's essential to weigh the pros and cons and consult the Studebaker community or a professional mechanic before making a decision.
Please verify part number and pics match your application. See pics for condition. Carter WE 1-barrel carburetor, ID tag number 715S. Core for rebuilding or parts.
Has manual choke conversion. Linkage moves but is stiff from sitting.