8N Gas leaking from air intake on Carb

Is this a common problem if you leave the fuel valve open too long or is there a problem with the float?

Yes, #1) float valve hung open, eather piece of dirt/crud stuck in float needle valve holding it open or.... float no longer floats, not unknown for floats to eventually spring a leak and therefore nolonger float up and close the needle valve.

Yes #2) Turning off the fuel valve under gas tank will prevent #1 from being a problem.....but...if float doesn't control level in chamber and thus to jets....you will have "flooding" problems.

Bottom line, you'll probley be better off to bite the bullet and rebuild your carb. Not exactly rocket science, just get the "big" kit and carefully follow directions.

Can be intimiating to a first time builder, but just wait until you tackle the dual 40 DCOE Webbers I have on my non-stock BMW 2002.

Good Luck..... ..Dell