9 replies to this topic

[PaulColeman]

My daughter's 1976 Mini 1000 has been restored over the last couple of years and now it won't start. It was running before we stripped it down and I've not touched the position of the distributor.

 

I've just replaced the Accuspark module I had fitted because I couldn't get a spark and I've put it back to points, so now it's sparking on all 4 cylinders. I've checked to make sure there's fuel up to the carburettor, which there is as the float bowl is full.

 

I'm guessing the problem is with the carburettor but I have no idea what to try next. does anybody have any suggestions please?

 

Thanks, Paul.

[KernowCooper]

Could be stale fuel if its had some in the tank, pour a small amount in the elbow of the carb with the filter off and try and start it then, if it fires and dies then I would look at the carb and see if its blocked up.

[Wise Old Elf]

Any compression? Piston rings could have stuck in their grooves.

[PaulColeman]

Fuel is fresh as of last week.

 

The pistons are all free as I only put the head on last week and turned it over to make sure it was free. I haven't done a compression test but with a plug out I can feel the air coming out of the cylinder.

 

Edit: Just checked the pug leads and two were crossed. It now tries to start but dies. Does that indicate timing?

 

Cheers, Paul.

Edited by PaulColeman, 28 June 2013 - 09:33 PM.

[KernowCooper]

Pour a small amount of fuel in the carb elbow and try again

[PaulColeman]

Okay, as soon as I figure out where that is I'll give it a go and report back.

 

Cheers, Paul.

[dklawson]

The carb elbow is just that bit below the air filter.  Remove the air filter housing cover and tip a thimble of gasoline down the hole in the center as Kernow suggested.  If the engine fires briefly to life and quickly dies this indicates a fuel delivery problem.  After sitting for 2 years it would not be unusual for gum and varnish to plug the hole in the jet.

[PaulColeman]

Well I managed to get it to start... briefly. I turned the distributor around and managed to get it to start. It ran for a minute or two and then I decided to try and set the timing but now I can't get it to start again

 

I didn't know if it was a weak spark so I bought a new coil and set of plug leads but now I can't even see a spark at all grrrrrr

 

 

Paul.

[madboy]

Fuel pump ?

[PaulColeman]

I checked the fuel pump and it's fine. The bowl is full so plenty of fuel.

 

Cheers, Paul.