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MG MGB Technical - Lost Power additional

I should have supplied more information. The car is an MGC with the original straight 6. The car was a basket case and has been a real challenge most of the time. After several months things get a bit murky, especially if there are multiple problems at the same time.

In addition to previously mentioned information: I did all I have done because I thought the car would appreciate it and we would bond. Yes, it was running well. I would have to tap on the fuel bowls from time to time to get fuel going in both carbs or to stop fuel from flowing out the over flows. The alternator went bad and because the carbs needed attention I thought I would do the alternator, carbs and while at it a fresh tune up because I did not know when one was done last. These were the final touches to finish the restoration.

The exhaust is clear, probably too clear since it’s bout with backfiring. The clutch is in good shape. The vacuum is working, I can move the dist. plate by sucking on the vacuum tube and the rpm changes if I pull the tube. I have now checked timing both ways and it is to specs. When I turn off the engine the tach needle drops quickly, quickly enough to bounce off the peg. I remember Paul Hunt mentioning that it indicates a problem in the distributor I think.
Tonight I noticed the new solid state fuel pump making a lot more noise than normal. When I mention lost power. It runs nice and smooth without any power at any range or load, much like it is running on only half the cylinders which is what it may be doing which brings me to:

New and old puzzling things: I may again be dealing with several problems.

Presently clear fuel filter before the carbs will empty for a second or two and then squirt to about half full. This process it repeats. Apparently it is running only on the front three cylinders. I previously checked spark with a spark indicator which is placed between the plug and wire. It indicated spark to all the plugs. Pulled plugs and the back three were wet. Have removed the air cleaners with the same effect. Finally removed the last three plug wires and car started and ran as previously mentioned so I am assuming that is the problem. Car is running on the front three cylinders. If this is the case, why:

1. If there is fuel, air and spark why is there is no ignition in the back three cyl.?
2. Why does the rpm increase or decrease if I adjust the back carb if the back cyl. are not firing. The carb cylinders moved up and down together.
3. What if any electrical problem could cause the back cyl. not to fire.

If there are thoughts I would appreciate hearing them. I will put another fuel pump on but don’t think that’s the problem. I appreciated all the responses!
Randy Palsgrove

Don't change the subject heading to add more info, just add it to the existing thread like others responses.
Paul Hunt

This thread was discussed on 01/11/2002

MG MGB Technical index

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