ok nonstoprc i did what you recommended. if i covered the small hole that that is on the base of the regulator the plunger with just the weight of the spring it would hold fuel. the small hole that i'm talking about is the feed hole for the nipple/fuel line that goes to the carb. i reassmbled the regulator again. took the valve cover off and checked the rocker arms/ valve springs/ pushrods they all checked out. i also screwed the regulator screw down all the way and rolled the engine over by hand and still there was fuel getting past the regulator system[:'(] anybody have a idea?? i'm at a loss with this.