Classic/Antique Car Repair: 1950 Ford Truck Carburetor, hemmings motor news, barrel carburetor

Question
I have a 1950 Ford Truck original in line 6 cyl.with original one barrel carburetor.  The needle valve on the fuel input is sticking in the closed position.  I have cleaned it with no success.  It appears the needle portion has either a rubber or some other coating on it.  This may or may not be contributing to the problem.  All other needle valves I have seen appear to be solid brass.  Thanks for any help.

Answer
Somewhere in the 1950's the carburetor and carb kit makers began using a material called Viton on the tip of the needle or the seat in the valve. If the Viton has been disintergrated a replacement is needed. Check Hemmings Motor News for carb kits, they are available. www.hemmings.com, the old car classified bible.
Brad