Been busy working on the MINI... new accuspark electronic ignition, new ignition coil, new alternator (see thread on that one), and now putting in a Minispeed stage 1 kit. I installed the new center exhaust kit, new down pipes, gaskets, etc.

When I try to start the car I get a definite gas leak with a puddle forming under the leftside (looking at the car from the front). The car will barely start and then die pretty quick. The mechanical fuel pump is dry, the clamps for the line to the carb are tight and dry. I am not sure where this leak is coming from it is dripping underneath the auto tranny and looks like it is running down one of the battery leads. But I can't see any evidence of a leak further up.

I had to disconnect the throttle/choke side of the carb to move it out of the way for the exhaust install so maybe I did something wrong there? Any suggestions on where to look? Also, the car does not seem to be leaking gas unless the car is on or cranking if that helps.

 

I just replaced everything between the fuel tank and carb so perhaps I can offer some info. My mini has an electric fuel pump but other than that it should be very similar.

From your comment about the leak only when cranking or running, that makes sense because the fuel system will only be under pressure when the fuel pump is active. A mechanical pump will pull a vacuum on the lines to the tank and pressurize the lines to the carb.

With that in mind I would focus on the lines between the pump and carb. Flexible carburetor fuel line is inexpensive and I would replace it for piece of mind if it were me. All it takes is a pin-hole or small crack to cause the fuel to escape. What carb do you have? I'm guessing 1.75" SU. If that's the case your fuel line will likely be 1/4" between the pump and carb. It'll be easy to determine once you get the old fuel line off.

Good luck,
Jeff

 

Thanks, Jeff. I actually have a rigid steel line from the pump to the carb. I went back out and was fortunate enough to spot a single drop from the very bottom of the carb forming. I thought maybe the float was stuck open... So I gave it a quick tap with a screw driver and from what I can tell the car is not leaking while running anymore?!?

I have practically no throttle, so it tells me I did not put together the carb correctly. Even when I pull up on the throttle manually and release it's getting caught 1/2 way down and then the spring pops and it goes all the way down. Something with the order of the spring, throttle cable, the u-shaped bracket I did wrong. Need to sort that out. The Haynes pic isn't great...

 

I can post pics of my HIF6 (1-3/4") if it helps.

 

If ts not too much trouble that would be great...

 

Here's my setup ... Let me know if you want another with specific detail. I can take a close-up if you want.

 

Thanks. Mine looks a bit different with a weird abutment bracket where the throttle return spring connects. I'll post up a pic... The in-laws just surprised us with a visit

 

Based on all the pics I've received (thanks!) my set up looks right. I just have no throttle... I can pull on the cable right at the carb and I get zero change in engine speed. The car will also only roughly idle with full choke. Not sure what to check for, just plan on taking apart tonight and reassembling...

 

did the needle fall out of the piston and is just sitting there plugging the orifice? just a WAG but was the case in a similar thread not long ago . .

 

Yeah that was me with the dropped needle before

I checked no issue there. I took apart the top half of the carb and replaced the dashpot spring, and the guide for the needle... I have a spare carb laying around. I noticed the needle had a lot of lateral play and the spring was very relaxed. Changing the parts the car started right up, idled pretty well. After it warmed up it was great throttle response... Put it in gear and died and could not get it restarted. I need to look at it tonight. I think the timing is off just based on idle. Is it possible that would cause it not to start even tho it was running?

Also, when it was running, if I gave it a deep jab on the throttle I would hear a popping noise coming from the carb area... Almost a backfire sound higher pitch and more popping on metal on metal sound.