Jaguar Repair: XJ6 problems, roadster factory, moss motors

Question
Hello Howard
I have a 1971 ; xj6 ; 4.2l. I have a following problem. The engine works very
awkwardly. Huge amounts of black smoke are being released through the
exhaust. There are also a loud shooting-like-sounds. I have recently take the
jag to the garage. The mechanic said he balanced carbs and set up new
points. He also said that the automatic choke delivers to much fuel. I was
trying to find an auto choke for my jag on the web but unsuccessfully. I have
heard that they are very expensive. Could there be other cause of those
problems (less expensive ones). One more thing, I can not start the car. When
I turn the key, the indicators light up but nothing else happens.
I am just a begginer but love my car and would appreciate if someone could
help me here.
Thank you.
Ark  

Answer
Hi Ark,
The coolant operated Stromberg carb chokes are prone to failure and this has prompted a manufacture to produce a replacement manual choke assembly. Even though it was built for Triumphs and MGs I believe it will fit any Stromberg carb.
Look on the Net for Moss Motors, The Roadster Factory and Victoria British. They all have toll free numbers. They use to carry a manual choke replacement to eliminate the auto choke. Be sure to tell them you have two Strombergs and give them the numbers off of the carbs.
I have made temporary repairs to one type of the auto choke but I need to know which Stromberg you have.
You also need to confirm that the problem is not just a high float level causing the problem.
If you want to try to repair this choke yourself, tell me what the numbers are on the carbs and I will walk you through the repairs.
Howard