[Excaliber]

Popping is generaly associated with a rixh mixture. BUT, that puts you back to square one. Rich mixture can be caused by a weak spark, Oh no! Fuel or spark is ALWAYS the first question to ask, and is not always easy to nail down.

Myself, being very mechanically inclined, would look at my ignition system first, just to rule it out if nothing else. Carb diagnosis is tough, eliminate other possibilities as you proceed. You got "points" or electronic ignition? If points, the capacitor is suspect, replace it, a "weak" one will give these symptoms. While your in there make sure the points are "gapped" properly.

Check the underside of the "rotor bug" (electronic or points) and look for indication of "burn through" where it might be shorting to the metal by "burning" through the plastic.

If electronic make sure you got GOOD volts at the dist. and coil, use your digital volt meter. If you don't have one, buy one! This is THE most important diagnostic tool you can own! Check the coil wire for signs of burn through. If all looks good, proceed to "fuel diagnosis".

Indeed, the floats may be OK for now, and just waiting for your "next cruise". Fuel filter, pump, hoses are also part of this picture to look at.

Ernie