Jetstar 88

As I ponder the greasy (7027156, off a 1967 425 in a Delta) q-jet sitting in front of me, I was wondering if there is a consensus on how to best deal with these things. So...
What company makes the best/most thorough rebuild kits?
Should I stick with the plastic choke pulloff, or go metal?
Chokes? Is there a best one, or does anything go?
Do baseplates interchange throughout the range of models? I may need a new one.
Floats: brass or foam/plastic/whatever?
What would be the best way of cleaning it?
Any tips on building/rebuilding, making them dependable, etc.
Anything else you can think of, but if I really don't want suggestions as to "better" carbs.
Oh, and my secondaries seem to be sooty. Is this normal, or indicative of backfiring/rich running?
The carb will be going on a 1968 350 in a 1964 J88 currently running a 2GC.
It would also be kind of cool if we could make this into a running compilation, but maybe in another section of the forum. (I didn't know which section would be best, so I went with the default).
And, finally, is the swap worth it? Are there any power/mileage gains to be had, or am I banging my head against the wall?

Rickman48

A friend had a 2-bbl chev 350 that switched to a Q-jet - gained 4 MPG, if he kept his foot outa it!
Biggest problem I've found with them, is the primary throttle shafts wear - should be bronze bushed.
Brass floats are the best - might re-solder to be safe.
I've never found a bad rebuilding kit - all seem to be pretty universal.
Haven't used a 'dip' for a while - usually a 1 - 2 gallon bucket, but of the few brands used, seemed all the same.

MX442

Hope this helps.

don71

Looks like you are on you way. I have had good results with the kits purchased at my local auto parts store.

I've used Berrymans cleaner many times. I don't like the "aroma" that sticks around for days if you get it on you...and disposal is a concern. Gumout carb cleaner works pretty good. You'll need more than two cans.

I do think a must have is an air compresser with a blow gun, to get those orifcices cleaned out. A stand for the carb is a good idea, but not required.

Other than that, a clean work area and big tray with sides is a plus, so those small parts don't roll off. Something like a cookie sheet.

Jetstar 88

I like that site (cliffs). I may go for their rebuild kit and get the baseplate rebuilt by them. With the baseplate, if the shafts feel loose, does it need rebuilding, or is there some acceptable amount of looseness?
I'm guessing they don't rebuild customer disassembled carbs...