Engine Trouble Peculiar Noise

[mepsinas]

... maybe just get a better carburetor?

 

[mepsinas]

... but yeah, I think the ticking is related to an air leak from the carburetor-manifold slip-on, and probably due to higher vibrations from the newer engine loosening the screw that holds them together...

 

[Wrench]

Ya probably just need the correct gasket where the carb slips on the manifold.

By using a homemade DIY plastic gasket it probably shrunk and the screw came loose from engine vibration.
You say the DIY gasket is no good now, so that's probably the source of the intake leak.

IDK what the correct gasket would be I don't have a carb like yours.
But I'm sure the correct gasket can be looked up or whatever is used to make the seal

 

[mepsinas]

The DIY gasket, that lasted longer than trying a different carb, is actually a cut-out piece of medical gown, made out of the same stuff as gasoline containers.

 

[mepsinas]

In both cases (DIY gasket, and no gasket but new carb), I think the screw came loose.
... all 3 cases, including the initial attempt.

 

[mepsinas]

I'll know for sure tomorrow.

 

[Wrench]

I'll know for sure tomorrow.

Sure slap some blue locktite on that screw, It looks easy to access

 

[Chainlube]

Exhaust leak will make a ticking sound also.

 

[mepsinas]

... my experiments with tightening the bolt proved fruitless (still ticking, but why did it go away for a day?); as did removing the DIY gasket between the carb and manifold (high idle came back). I'm going to take a break I think. Maybe letting it settle will remove it.

 

[mepsinas]

... maybe an only partially sealed off vacuum leak and should get o-ring.