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September 29th, 2008

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Q & A: MGB Motor Starting

Monday January 02nd, 2006
Q & A, MGA, MGB, MGC, MG T-Type, Midget
Dear Mr. Twist: I am a member of NAMBGR and was reading over your
technotes on the website looking for a solution to a problem I am
investigating. I recently acquired a '77 MGB which runs great except
for a starting problem. When the car sits for 24 hours or so, to start
it I have to turn the motor over repeatedly in 1-2 second runs. It
starts about the tenth or eleventh time--sputtering a bit but then
revving up just fine. I guess I am spoiled with my '66 Chevy just
starting like a dream with one pump of the gas pedal. I know I am not
supposed to prime the MGB at all prior to startin, and I don't, but I
can't narrow the problem down. I figure I have a fuel pump problem or
choking problem--maybe a clogged carburetor. It is taking me awhile to
get used to working on this engine, but it is a lot of fun. Anything
within reason I am sure I can fix. I have rebuilt my Chevy carburetor
lots of times--any suggestions?

I just love this car and want to get it back into its original
configuration. I also am trying to rebuild the air pump to re-install
on the engine which the previous owner removed from the engine. I am
thinking it might just be easier to buy a re-conditioned unit. Many
thanks for any ideas on the starting problem or my air pump project.

George
George!

It is proper, and necessary, the beat the throttle to the floor a
couple of times before trying to start the engine. This sets the automatic
choke -- the more dramatically you can knock the pedal, the more sh... read more