Alright gang, the hunt for air leaks continues ....
I could tell that despite the car feeling better, there was still something amiss with the rear carb.
Using self penetrating oil (as it froths up nicely and is runny), I sprayed around the typical areas and found that that outer end of the throttle shaft on the rear carb was showing a perfect line in the froth between the end cap and the carb body. Using a razor blade, I gently encouraged it out (which was frankly quite easy).
I discovered a putty type material in there which I assume is there to seal the cap. Not much of it left though.
Looking at the fingers in the cap, you can see where it was leaking has the dark residue.
So I cleaned both the cap and carb big up and using a gasket making paste, I covered the cap, pushed it home and wiped off the residue. I’m sure someone will tell me that I have used the wrong paste ;). Incidentally, I used the same thing on the intake manifold and carb insulators gaskets to ensure a good seal.
I then did the other side to play it safe.
Having given it a good hour to set, I fired up the engine and did the same test, froth everywhere!
So if your ZT carbs start to leak, at least the fix is very quick and simple. Mine have been on for 7 years at an average of 2k miles a year. So I guess it’s fair to expect a little maintenance being required.