To all;
I normally lurk on this list.
I recently uncovered a problem with the SU fuel pump on my 1973 MGB. This tip
may be helpful to someone experiencing a similar problem.
My MGB would lose power and stumble between 3500-4500 rpms. I tried new plugs
and wires, ignition timing, carb tuning and checked for an intake manifold
leak. All with no success.
I tested my fuel pump by disconnecting the fuel hose to the carbs, and the pump
conformed to the test specs I had. It was able to pump 1 pint in 15 seconds.
So, I am out on a drive and all of a sudden my car dies, and I realize that I
cannot hear the SU pump tic, tic, tic. I rapped the pump and it started
working and I was able to get home.
Once home, I removed the pump and discovered the points were in bad shape.
Replaced the points, and my loss of power problem disappeared.
So my conclusions are that a pump can test ok, but not be able to keep up
adequate fuel pressure as RPM's increase, and that from now on I will be
replacing the fuel pump points as a matter of routine maintenance.
BTW, this was a SU pump about 8 years old with 17k miles of use and always
garaged.
I hope this tip helps.
John Di Fede
Hopewell Junction, NY 12533
difejo@optonline.net
1973 MGB
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