MGB trouble starting.

[Tomberon]

Apologies if my headline has been seen a few times before but I can't find a similar issue listed in the topics.

I have limited knowledge so do humour me where possible. I have a 1981 mgb and can't get it to start. I've checked for a spark, fuel delivery, electricity, fuel in the tank and I'm definitely putting the key in. It will turn over but won't fire up and I'm not entirely sure where the problem may lie. One thing that may be completely unrelated is that I've just fitted a new battery and the clock seems to be running at double speed.

[nta16]

just thoughts now:

ummmmmmmmm, I wonder how much effort you've made to help yourself and the car

but you have got the right lines normally it's either fuel or electrics

there's more books, videos, DVDs, magazine articles, technical manuals on the MGB than any other classic

where are there sparks, every plug?

basics - this new battery is it brand new or just new to the car, is it fully charged

if the car's been sitting in a barn for a year before you installed the battery did you check or clean the battery posts, clamps, connections at the other end of the main leads - check all are clean, secure and protected including the main earth leads from battery and on engine/gearbox

did you give it choke, check the air filters are clean and not blocked

does it turn over fast or slow, did you check for animal damage or nesting

check the engine turns freely by hand

how old is the petrol, is it contaminated

checked CB points gap, starter relay

you really need to go through a logical diagnostics path, I'm too tired to think I've been on computers too long now

[williredale]

To follow on from Nigel's advice. Did it start normally before the battery was installed?

[Tomberon]

I think I've traced the fault to a faulty fuel pump. I'll be renewing the fuel as well. Thanks very much for the replies, I'll let you know how I get on!