Hi Guys,
I have read all articles I can find on the forum & put into practise all advice given on here & still have a major issue and I am getting desperate!
998cc A+ 1989 Metro Engine - Stage One Kit - HIF38 carb
Problem:
New (Recon) engine bought & installed - on starting for 1st time, the engine would not run without the choke half-fully open, then the Head Gasket Blew - Replaced with Payen Small Bore Gasket as advised, but the head & valves seats were damaged - Bought Reconditioned/Refaced CAM4810 Head instead of skimming as I live in Malta.
Changed the air filter which was a pancake type to a new one (same style) from Minispares
Existing needle was an AEG - so as advised changed to an AAU
After all the parts arrived 2 days ago - today was the first time firing again - but I still have the same issue with the engine not running without the choke pulled out - but it won't run without it.
What I have done:
1. Installed new Head & HG - block was cleaned & checked for flatness - all OK
2. Torqued head to 47ft/lbs initially
3. Set all valve clearances to 12 thou as per instructions given
4. Fitted new SU service kit to HIF carb - carb throughly cleaned with acetone - piston & suction chamber checked & working as per instructions
4. Replaced AEG needle with AAU
5. Replaced the pancake filter with new
6. Ensured that all connections are correct on SU
7. New gaskets to all mating surfaces of SU & manifold - liquid gasket used to supplement in places of concern to ensure no air leaks
8. Static timing set at between 5-8 BTDC as per instructions given - firing order checked & confirmed - rotor arm at 2'oclock for No.1 cylinder - Valves 1& 2 rocking
9. Re-torqued head after 1st heat cycle (1/4 turn back then up to 50ft/lbs)
Engine will only fire with choke pulled out - I have tried to set the idle mixture (fully in, then 2 turns out for initial start up) - but I am no further forward as this was the same issue originally - except I have a new head, HG, needle & filter
I have dismantled the carb several times to double check the jet is clear, piston dropping correctly, float valve height set correctly - all mating surfaces are clean & sealed.
Please help as I have no-one here in Malta who can help me - the Mini owners club do not respond either - this is my first mini & car project & I am getting desperate for additional input to highlight where I am going wrong or have overlooked.
Regards
Simon.