QuestionQUESTION: I have just recently had a 79 MG midget 1500 restored that has sat idle since 1998 since my daughters death.. I have installed A new Basil distributor, New coil, it is electric and doesn't have points, new Resistor, new battery and new fuel pump. The problem is while it is while moving it will quit instantly. no sputtering or missing. After sitting a few minutes it will start but quits again.. After stopping it will fire but wont start.. any ideas? thanks
ANSWER: Jerry,
I would simply put a timing light on it to pin it down to spark or not. If that checks out, I would jump on fuel delivery. Sorry, I can't be more specific without more data.
Nice ride. I happen to have my father-in-law's '77 in my driveway to fix the brake lights.
- Rick
---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------
QUESTION: Rick, i have checked the timing and it is good..I think I have about get it pinpointed to the float in the carburetor. I haven't checked it because I'm not sure how to do it. When the gas is given wide open, it will die out and it continues to do that. Do you think it could possibly be float and if so how do i check it... The car was my daughters and she passed away in 98.. I am trying to get it restored for her daughters 18th birthday..It is painted canary yellow now Beautiful if it would just run!
Thanks for replying back Jerry
AnswerJerry,
From the symptoms you describe, the carb is a distinct possibility, especially since it has been sitting for a number of years. I have seen gas turn to varnish and gunk up a carb in as little as a year of sitting without being run. There are idle jets and main jets. It sounds like the idle jets are open and the mains are clogged. The best advice I have is to disassemble and completely clean the carb. I have used Berrymans Chem Dip with good success.( http://www.berrymanproducts.com/Default.aspx?tabid=146 )
Access to compressed air is very helpful in getting all the ports cleaned out too. I think this is all that is wrong. Good luck!
- Rick
