Solex 28-PICT-1 refurb

I was fortunate enough to pick up an original Solex 28-PICT-1 for a fiver (literally the same cost as the postage!). It was in need of restoration, but that's what I am all about:

Fortunately I had my VW workshop manual to guide me through the disassembly process (not needed, but reassuring to have): 

Evidentially this carb has never been overhauled as the original Solex branded gasket was still present:

I got hold of a rebuild kit, which gave me the correct gaskets, diaphragms and needle valve, although I ultimately opted to keep the original valve:

After the carb was broken into component parts I gave everything a few hours in the ultrasonic cleaner. It came up better than expected and revealed that the parts were in a good state of repair:

Comparing against an exploded diagram, I took stock of what I had. Everything was present apart from the accelerator pump discharge tube, which I will have to find at a future swap meet. The carb was a pleasure to rebuild as it went back together without issue: 

Looking fresh and now ready for installation on the engine, along with the recently refurbed fuel pump:

However, that's where I hit a slight snag (an issue I once knew, but had forgotten); with the car upgraded to an alternator, there was not enough space to seat the carb in place. Fortunately, there is an aftermarket solution, which is effective a space to raise up the height of the carb slightly. Another thing on the shopping list. 

Hopefully, I will get this tested next year and between this reconditioned carb and the fuel pump, the engine will have a more faithful resemblance to an original engine.