So I've got a broken needle stuck in a piston and I can't get it out. Seeing as my new SM needles were fairly loose in the piston I think I need to replace that little metal cylinder that the needle is placed and screwed into. Anyone know how to get it out? I'm thinking it needs to be pressed up into the piston and out?

I'd say either call the boys up at Z therapy. Or take it to a machine shop.

You're saying that when you loosen the screw on the side of the piston the needle won't fall or pull out? And when you insert a new needle into the bottom of a piston and tighten the holding screw the needle is still loose?

I ordered new main jets and needles for my 4 screw carbs from Z therapy. The new SM needles would go in loose and when I tightened them down they went cockeyed so the piston would stick. So I had a rebuild kit laying around with spare needles made by someone else and I stuck them in (they don't go in very easily). Anyway, got the needle in one but the second one snapped off with the base still in the piston.

Did you compare the base diameter of the old & new needles? Some where in the past 30 years the pistons may have seen some activity to damage the holes so good needles will not secure right. ZT has refurbished matched domes & pistons. Have you tried rusted-nut-buster spray, or maybe heating up the area around the broken needle to loosen the fit. Don't know if the metal would expand enough to let go? They freeze motor parts or sleeves and what not to before pressing together, so. . . aaaa

I don't know. Well I guess reach for your oriental friend- Mr. Wallet-San.

Z therapy 503-587-9800