IH 2444 stopped running

jezorek · Mar 29, 2010

I redently bought a 2444 with a Kubota 3pth backhoe. I operated the backhoe and tractor before I purchased it and both ran OK. When I got it home I did some digging for about an hour without any problems. Later I started to dig again and the tractor started to run rough when under load. I suspected a clogged fuel filter. After installing a new inline filter, the tractor started and died twice and then would not start. I noticed a lot of raw gas coming out of the carb. I took the carb apart and was surprised how clean it was. The float was OK and the needle and seat looked OK. I put it back together but the engine would not start and it leaked gas.
A rebuild kit is not offered for the Zenith carb and only individual parts are available from my dealer. I ordered a needle and seat but it hasn't arrived yet. If the new needle and seat doesn't fix the problem, anyone care to speculate on what else could be wrong?

DJ54 · Mar 29, 2010

Any chance the float sank? Sometimes they get a pinhole at the soldered seam. Shake the float to see if you can feel/hear gas inside it... If it's dry on the outside, shaking it will show you where the hole is, if there is one.

I know when they first brought out unleaded gas, we had a time getting floats set, because of the specific gravity difference. And if you're using gas with alcohol added, it may make a difference too.

jezorek · Mar 29, 2010

I should have mentioned that I checked the float. It is OK. I don't know if the gas in the tank has alcohol but that is what it was running on when it stopped.

DJ54 · Apr 1, 2010

Did you try raising the float, with the bowl off, and see if the needle valve is shutting the gas off? It may be the little tab needs bent a tad. Or in other words adjust the float, to shut it off. If you have a manual for it, it should tell you what to set it at.