Triumph Repair: SPITFIRE QUESTION, wd 40, filter lines

Question
HI HOWARD I HAVE A 1978 TRIUMPH SPITFIRE CONVT I DID A FRAME OFF RES... IT WAS RUNNING GREAT NOW IT BARELY FIRES UP SOMETIMES IT WILL START AND I'LL TAKE IT FOR A SPIN THEN HAVE TO CALL A WRECKER BUT MOST OF THE TIME IT JUST WONT START UP..

Answer
Hi Ryan,
You need to do a few simple tests. First do a compression test. It should be between 125 PSI and 180 PSI. If not don't bother going any further.
If the compression test is OK, spray some starting fluid or something like WD-40 in the intake when it won't start. If that makes it start than it is a fuel problem not ignition, so you then need to do a fuel pressure test at the carb. You need 1 1/2 PSI or more at the carb when it will not start. If you don't it is fuel supply, ie, pump, filter, lines or tank pick-up. If you do, it is a carb problem. If you spray a starting fluid in the intake and it does not start, you need to check the ignition system.
Let me know,
Howard