SU Carburettor

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KenM
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SU Carburettor

Post by KenM »

Hi all, I have brought a 1953 MKII with a Solex carburettor. I want to replace the Solex with a SU HS2 carburettor. Just wondering if anyone has done this upgrade and any tips.
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by david.anderson »

The 54 and later mk2 had a different frame (known as the dogleg frame} to accommodate the SU carburetor. The HS2 is even higher than the SU fitted standard, so it will not fit.
David
KenM
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by KenM »

Thanks David. Will a MC2 fit?
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by KenM »

Hi David, disregard my last comment. Any suggestions for an improved carburettor over the Solex?
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simon.holyfield
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by simon.holyfield »

Why do you want to replace the Solex?
cheers

Simes
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by KenM »

Hi Simon, from what I read parts are an issue plus performnce issues.
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by KenM »

Sorry Simes not Simon, didn't have my reading glasses on :)
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Roger Gwynn
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by Roger Gwynn »

Roger Gwynn, caretaker of the club's works drawings and machine register, membership secretary 2015-26. Director of AOMCC, Draganfly Motorcycles, Craven Equipment and Supreme Motorcycles mostly retired.
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simon.holyfield
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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by simon.holyfield »

KenM wrote: Tue Jun 23, 2026 9:40 am Sorry Simes not Simon, didn't have my reading glasses on :)
Simes, Simon - makes no difference!

I'd use your Solex for a bit and see what you think - mine is fine, and I am sure others will chip in. These carbs were used on thousands of (mostly french) small cars; spares are around though some are difficult like all old stuff.

I'm working on a list identifying alternative sources for these parts.
cheers

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Re: SU Carburettor

Post by paul.jameson »

I will echo what Simon Holyfield says: use the Solex. I have used Solex fitted Square Fours for around 35,000 miles and had very few problems. Perhaps the main issue can be down to wear in the butterfly spindle but a skilled machinist can bush this to restore the Solex to its initial performance. Sadly, David Jones, who used to provide this service is no longer with us but I can think of one or two people with competent model making skills who would be able to tackle the problem.
Paul Jameson
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