Model A

Zenith Carburetor Numbering

The scan above is from the Ford detail drawing for the carburetor lower casting. The notes clearly show the meaning of the Zenith 1, 2, and 3 designations found on Model A Ford carburetors.

The purpose of the numbers was to identify the manufacturer of the carburetor for quality and 'warranty' reasons, in order that any defective parts from dealers could be properly identified, returned, and credited.

Castings marked 'Zenith' with no number were also initially produced by both Zenith and Holley. Those early castings were produced prior to the engineering change which added the supplier number requirement.

In order to meet production volumes and maintain a competitive price, Ford had two suppliers. The design was developed and owned by Zenith-Detroit, but many Model A carburetors were also produced under license from Zenith by Holley, Ford's long standing Model T era carburetor supplier.

Henry Ford had a close personal friendship with George Holley, but note that the Holley name was misspelled on the Ford drawing!

Restorers of carburetors are also aware of the numerous other detail differences and various supplier markings found on many individual components which distinguish the Zenith, Holley, and Ford-produced carburetors.

More related information on Ford Garage:

For more Model A & B related information, use the Site Search box at the top or bottom of this page.
Model A Zenith 3 Carburetor Castings
Model A Zenith Carburetor Theory of Operation
Model A & B Carburetor Jet Sizes & Flow Rates
Model A Zenith Carburetor A-9545 Secondary Well Variations
Model A Carburetor Float Mass
Model A Zenith Carburetor GAV Wrench

January 2002