MG Car Repair: mgb sputters, carburetter, jam jar

Question
hey Barrie, I have a 1973 mgb  1.8 and when I start the car with choke fully out it doesnt seem to run at a high idle.  When I drive the car, 1st gear isnt too bad with the sputtering but when I put it into second gear it sputters and the car doesnt seem to have any power or want to move.  the car sometimes stalls when at a traffic light, but not all the time.  Can you please give me some information on troubleshooting this problem?  thank you.

Answer
Hi Sheik.  Ii sounds like your car is not getting enough fuel.

First, I would check that the dampers (on top of the carburetters) have enough oil in them.  

I would also consider doing a test of the fuel pump.  Pull the hose from the carburetter and put it into a jam-jar.  How long does it take for the pump to half-fill the jam jar?  It should be less than 30 seconds.

Have you had the car for a long time, or is it new to you?  When was it last serviced?  Have you checked the points inside the distributor for cleanliness and for the correct gap?  Is there an in-line fuel filter and does it look clean?  

There are so many possibilities, I really need more information.