Let's say the water is 14 - 18 feet deep and bass are holding in the area. Is that too shallow for a carolina rig? What size weight would you use? Should I lift it clear off the bottom and let it fall back or just drag it slowly?

I think that is fine for carolia rigging (14+ feet). As far as the weight I like 3/4 oz brass wgt. With a 16"-24" leader.

It's never too shallow (almost) to Carolina Rig imo. Just match your weight size to the depth. I'd use 1/2 for the depth you're talking about, but that's just me. I think most would go heavier.

14-18' is deep water in most of the lakes I fish. A C-rig is often a fine choice at those depths. I want the weight to be in contact with the bottom at all times. At that depth 3/4 oz would be as light as I would go unless I kept losing rigs; usually 1 oz. Sometimes dragging it a foot or two and letting it set for several seconds works, other times working it faster is better. Good luck.

I c rig at any depth. I usually stay with a 1/2 oz weight but will go to 3/4 at times. Just drag your bait by moving your rod backwards, don't raise the weight off of the bottom keep your rod tip low. The c rig will produce just about anywhere at anytime