5 replies to this topic

[mini_1275]

hi im looking at buying a 1980 clubman which is a non runner.
he says it will start but wont keep running as there is a possible air leek from a crack in the inlet manifold.
just wanted to check that if i fit a new inlet, should everything be alright or are there any other possible causes of this?

cheers

[Ethel]

People sometimes confuse the casting marks for cracks on cast manifolds. Even if it was cracked (original cast iron?) I wouldn't expect it to have a very big effect. I wouldn't be too worried by rough running problems attributable to engine ancillaries but I would want to test drive the car thoroughly and get it up to running temperature to know the engine and gearbox were ok.

[mini_1275]

People sometimes confuse the casting marks for cracks on cast manifolds. Even if it was cracked (original cast iron?) I wouldn't expect it to have a very big effect. I wouldn't be too worried by rough running problems attributable to engine ancillaries but I would want to test drive the car thoroughly and get it up to running temperature to know the engine and gearbox were ok.

ok so even if there is an air leak from acrack in the manifold, the car should still run ok yeah? because this car starts, revs up and then cuts out.
any ideas what this could be? cheers

[zebidee]

How long does it run for? I presume this from being stood cold? As Ethel says, i wouldn't of thought an air leak would lead to the car not running...would just make it run roughly depending on the size of the crack.

[mini_1275]

How long does it run for? I presume this from being stood cold? As Ethel says, i wouldn't of thought an air leak would lead to the car not running...would just make it run roughly depending on the size of the crack.

it cuts out almost straight away after being started.
unfortunatley the car is nearly 3 hours away so i cant really go up just to have a look either!
he has a new manifold and gasket to be put on but doesnt have the time. . .
dont really want to go all that way, fit the manifold and then find its something more serious and not be able to get it home!

can you think of anything that might cause it to cut out like that?

[MRA]

I agree with ETHEL, don't buy if you can't see it running.

Cracked inlet manifolds are rarer than hens teeth....... tell him straight that if he gets it running than you will drive the 3hrs to see it...... but at the moment it simply is not worth it. unless you don't mind spending a replacemrnt engine and possibly gearbox etc etc........