MG Car Repair: 1966 mgb wont turn over., starter solenoid, rubber button

Question
Hi howard, have a problem with my 1966 mgb not turning over. Started it after time in storage and it went fine. Next day, I can't get it to turn over, it rocks in 4th so it doesnt look like the motor is locked and the ignition light lights up although I'm not hearing the clicks from the fuel pump. What steps should I take to determine the fault. How helpful are the workshop manuals to someone who is just starting out?

Answer
Hi Fabian,
The 66 "B" has an external starter solenoid with a rubber button on it so you can do a simple test by just making sure the shift lever in in neutral and push the rubber button. This manually activates the starter motor. The engine should spin. If it does not you need to take a test light or volt meter and start tracing. (Battery to solenoid, solenoid to starter, engine to frame strap and finally body to + post of the battery. If it still has two 6volt batteries then you need to check the jumper between the two batteries.
Yes, you should get a workshop manual. Factory manual (if you can find one) then Bentley next, then Haynes and Clymers. This is my preference.
Howard