MGC starting problem

[MGC69]

Hi all
It is my first time on here, so hello to all.
I bought an MGC last week, 3 owners and 45000 miles on the clock.The car has not been running for some time, could be 8 years. I have fitted new fuel pump and put a new 12 volt battery on her. Also fitted new points etc, new spark plugs and so on. There is fuel up to the carbs and spark to the spark plugs. The engine is turning over fine, there is good oil pressure, but no starting. I have turned it over several times, but to no avail. Has anybody got any suggestions, please?

[530dTPhil]

If it's still the eight year old fuel, then the general consensus is that this is a potential cause of non start. Fresh fuel right through the lines and into the carbs is worth a try.

[MGC69]

Thanks Phil. The tank was empty and fresh fuel was added. 5ltrs of BP 97 octane. Not sure how much turning over the straight 6 needs? Especially having not been started for around 8 years or more.

[MGC69]

Just to add, there dont seem to be any fuel getting to the plugs, or certainly theres no sign of fuel on the plugs. The bowls on the carbs are full of fuel, and all seems to be as should. But engine wont start!!!

[chormy]

Sounds like you have my car. It seems that there is vacuum so not pulling fuel in on downstroke. However try advancing the dizzy sometimes if its retarded to much it will not start.
If you find the problem mail me . Ive been too busy to return to car.

[flashgit]

MGC69,
I'm assuming from your "handle" that the car is a 1969 and therefore has the SU carbs. You have fuel getting to the float chambers. The fuel gets from the float chambers to the jets (and then into engine) via a thin tube situated below the carburetors. If the car has been sat with old fuel in, it is possible this may have conjealed and possibly blocked something. I have just stripped down and cleaned by MGB twin SU's which had been standing for just a year and the jets and needles now all work smoothly again.
Stuart

[chormy]

Any luck with issue!