Okay, everyone--since no one could answer my question about removing
the plastic 8-track storage racks from my glove compartment, I'll try out
a question on an infinitely less complex and easier-to-solve subject:

rebuilding a Quadrajet carburetor.

Specifically: has anyone used a rebuild kit and done this themselves? If
so, where did you get your kit, and what did you think about the
procedure? Is it something that somebody with the most average
mechanical skills and tools can do--or should it be left to a professional?
If so, got any recommendations?

I know that NAPA sells kits; but I've seen at least one mention by another
aftermarket company that their kit--which is significantly more
expensive--is better, because it's more complete (bushings, etc.) True, or
not, in your estimation?

I searched the forum, but didn't really find answers to the above. So thank
you for any and all input on this.

And Joel, just so you know, and I can save you the time and trouble of
posting your recommendation on the essential and proper tool to use for
this procedure, let me assure you: I already HAVE a flanged phenolic
spacer with the optional primary bore pull-off diaphragm. And yes, it's
got dual venturis, made of nitrophyl.

I knew you'd approve.

At least, I think...

Well, gee, Ted....I don't know whut tuh say....

Try THIS!!
Go to "Ken's Projects", and then click on the "Quadrajet" icon. There, you will find an amazing "How To" on Quadrapukes!!.

So...THERE!

And if all else fails, send it to me with the kit and new float.  Wait until I get to it, not too long, and it will return rebuilt.  

How much?  The same price as the last one I did for a friend, and the one I have here now to do for an old man with cash problems trying to earn a living.   Just what materials and cleaners cost me, and an Iced tea when we meet.

SF,

You can't beat a deal like that!!!

 Ken's the BEST!!

Ken, for once, I don't know what to say in reply.

A mere "thank you", for such an extraordinarily generous gesture on your
part, just doesn't seem adequate.

When I posted this question, I expected that I'd receive several very
helpful and informative replies--the kind of spontaneous response that
I'm beginning to get accustomed to around here: from kind and friendly
members who have no agenda other than to share their knowledge and
advice with those of us who need and benefit from it.

I certainly didn't expect such an exceptionally generous offer as yours,
though. And I'm genuinely at a loss as to how to express my gratitude.

This Silver Anniversary Corvette is a real labor of love. These cars have
been in my blood ever since I was in grade school, and a family friend
parked his red '62 convertible in our backyard for the summer for
safekeeping while he was away. Whether by design, or just convenience,
he asked me to 'start it up every so often'.

No 13-year-old has ever been happier to have a summertime task
assigned. The love affair started then--and is still going strong.

My wife, who's English, has loved Corvettes ever since she was young too.
When I parked this one in her parking spot as a surprise this past
Valentine's Day, it was a dream come true for her as well as me.

We can't afford to do any more than the most minor of fixes on it right
now. It's in very sad shape, but it's still something we enjoy every day,
even though it's not yet in driving condition. Just looking at that great
shark shape, or simply popping the hood and making some small repair/
improvement, provides real satisfaction and pride. I know everybody in
this C3VR neighborhood knows that feeling.

So having you offer to help us with something so critical--and complex--
as a carburetor rebuild, and ask for nothing in return except the cost of
materials, is pretty much the definition of true generosity in our book.

So while "thank you" doesn't seem adequate, it's all we have to offer you
in reply right now.

That, and the guarantee that whenever we do fire this beauty up in the
future, and hear and feel those eight cylinders happily spinning in their
sleeves, we'll be reminded of your kindness.

Hopefully we'll have the opportunity to thank you in person some day;
and we'll be sure to make it a 'Long Island Iced Tea'--or two!