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September 29th, 2008

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Q & A: Stalling

Tuesday July 10th, 2007
Q & A, MGA, MGB, MGC, MG T-Type, Midget
John,
I haven't written before, but I ran into a sudden stalling condition that I thought would be helpful to your readers. Perhaps you already know about it though.

Problem:
1. The engine stops dead. No indication anything is wrong.
2. Analysis: No fuel at filter input in engine compartment. Pump runs constantly, but doesn't sound normal. Air pulsations present at fuel line removed from filter in engine compartment. Suspect fuel pump does work and lack of fuel is some other problem.
3. Prepare to remove fuel pump to determine cause for fuel blockage.
4. In process of removing fuel lines, discovered input fuel fitting is very loose.
5. Tighten fitting while pump is still in the car and replace fuel line.
6. Engine starts & runs fine.

Both input and output fittings are of right angle design rather than in-line as they should be. The right angle design puts a rotational load on the fitting's screw thread when the line is connected. With normal vibration, and over time, the fitting can loosen and the pump sucks air.
This repair can be made in a few minutes at no cost if you are aware of the condition. I chose to replace all the fuel lines under the car, so it took a little while longer.

I hope this may also solve a hot idle condition that has eluded me for some time:
When the ambient temperature is extremely hot and the car has been driven for some time in slow city traffic, the idle speed drops to about 200 RPM and it runs very rough. If the engine dies or is shut off, dieseling occurs. Normal idle is restored when engine temperature is lowered, usually by driving at faster speeds. The engine does not appear to be overheated. Temperature gauge is in normal zone, no smells, fans cycle normally. Any comments?

Best regards,
Wes
Wes,


The fuel pump would rather try to move air than fuel. Any leak results in the pump chattering and blowing bubbles!

Your engine sounds like it's too rich. You can lean it out easily with the Stromber... read more