MG Car Repair: Mg Midget, wd 40, starter fluid

Question
I have a 1976 Midget that is having problems starting.
It fires up when starting then dies, we have taken the carbs off and cleaned them, where we found rubber in the float chambers from the old fuel pipe which we thought was the problem. Since putting carbs back on car there's sparks from coil and spark plugs but still no life when car is started.

Answer
Hi Eloise,
I take it that this is not a US Midget or it has had the Stromberg carb replaced with SUs?
If you found bits of rubber in the float chambers, then it is quite possible some of that trash made it into the main jets. Did you clean them out too?
To make a rough test of fuel as a cause, have someone start the engine and hold the throttle steady at part open while you spray starter fluid or something like WD-40 in the intake to see if you can keep it running.

If you can keep the engine running by spraying into the intake, then for sure it is a fuel related problem. Did you check fuel pump pressure and delivery?
Let me know,
Howard