Moss Motors, Ltd

Forgive me if my decorum isn't proper, but this is my first attempt at blogging.  I own a 1980 MGB.  Hereto for it has run well (for a British sports car, anyway...and I've owned it about 15 years) unfortunately, at present it has some issues. 

The fuel pump wore out and was replaced several weeks ago, as such I assume that is functioning properly.   The "ticka- ticka-ticka" I hear once the ignition swith is engaged tends to confirm same.  At present, the car will start promptly, run well for about 5-10 seconds...and then die.  After that it is no longer inclined to start or run...although it will crank and "think" about engaging  The battery is fully charged, it has abundant fuel.

Any suggestions would be welcomed...and thanks in advance for your help.

 MG fan in Missouri

 

 

MG Fan,

Does this car have its original electronic ignition? or has that been replace with aftermarket electronic ignition? or even points and condenser? Have you checked for spark when it won't run? We'll figure this out.

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Motorbill
From Lola to Land Rover, If it's British and has wheels, it's likely I've bloodied me knuckles thereupon

Have you disconnected the fuel line to the cabs and verified fuel flow?  If you remove the gas cap, does it do the same thing?

MG Fan In Missouri,

I think I know what your problem is. I owned a 76 MGB years ago with the same symptoms. Take the rubber gas line off from the gas tank, I think it's on the passenger side, attach a hose of the same dimension on the metal connector of the tank and blow back into the tank by mouth or light compressed air. Basically what's happening is the top of the gas tank has rusted and rust particals have fallen to the bottom of the tank where the gas line picks up the gas.  Blowing back into the tank will push the rust away from the pickup tube. Your MGB should run longer but it will eventually clog again. I had to do this a number of times to drive to work each day until I could afford a new tank. A new tank is the only permanent fix and I would suggest a good slushing compound to coat the inside of your tank so the rusting will not happen again and to seal the front edge of the tank to the body with some type of caulk to prevent water from laying on top of the tank and rust through from the outside in. Rust probably did your fuel pump in as well and I suggest putting a fuel filter between your tank and the pump so rust can't get to the pump.

Hope this helps,

Mike