MG Car Repair: fuel pump leak 75 mgb, burlen fuel systems, axle stands

Question
hi barrie,
i've got a 1975 mgb, just went to start it this morning but if failed to start. didn't even fire.
then i noticed that the fuel pump was leaking under the rear wheel and also the carb overflow had fuel coming out of it. i gave the dashpots a tap and no more leak there now. how do i take out the fuel pump or is that my problem, also checked one of the spark plugs but it was fairly dry.
thanks for your help,
dermot

Answer
Hi Dermot
The overflowing carb means that the needle valves should be replaced, otherwise this will keep happening and gradually get worse.  

The leaking fuel pump is more serious.  For safety, I would fit a replacement fuel pump.  Also, modern fuel contains all sorts of chemicals (including Ethanol).  This apparently can cause your old rubber hoses to crumble.  Modern hoses have been re-formulated to prevent this from happening,  so I would replace all the rubber hoses at the same time.  All the necessary parts are available from Burlen Fuel Systems in Salisbury.  

Replacing the fuel pump is not a big job.  On a 1975 car the pump is located behind a cover at the back of the boot, but  to replace the pump you will need to access it from underneath after removing the offside rear wheel.  Please use axle stands and be very careful when working under a jacked-up car.