MGExp

MGB & GT Forum

#3 cylinder not firing at idle

Moss Motors
AutoShrine Sponsor
AutoShrine Sponsor
AutoShrine Sponsor
AutoShrine Sponsor

#3 cylinder not firing at idle
#1
  This topic is about my 1973 MG MGB
PVD Peter Van Dine
Doylestown, PA, USA   USA
Sign in to contact
1973 MG MGB
I have checked compression (150-170) and installed new plugs, wires and Pertronix ignition. Still not firing. Could it be a leaking intake manifold gasket? What's the easiest way to check gasket leak?

Was this post helpful or interesting?
Yes No Thank
. Become a Supporting Member to hide this ad & support a small business
dawvid Avatar
dawvid David B
Sharon, MA, USA   USA
Sign in to contact
Did you see this thread which is a little further down? -->> #2 not firing

David



74 Damask Red BGT
Davesmg@outlook.com

Was this post helpful or interesting?
Yes No Thank
rntanner Avatar
rntanner Roger N. Tanner (Disabled)
Oxnard, CA, USA   USA
Sign in to contact
1970 MG MGB
1977 MG MGB
Unless you have already taken on this before, this is what I would encourage you to try:

1) Change all four spark plugs

2) Change all the spark plug wires (buy the ones with silicone insulation...yes, expensive...

http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=80427

3) Buy a new distributor cap, and rotor.

http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=67033

4) . . . and the most important one, which is forever:

a) solid state switching instead of breaker points and condenser.

http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=38780

b) Pertronix high voltage spark coil (must have solid state switching)

http://www.mossmotors.com/Shop/ViewProducts.aspx?PlateIndexID=98397

Don't be surprised that your local auto supply store (e.g., NAPA) can get these MGB parts brought in over a few days.



Roger N. Tanner
Professional Engineer, Retired

Was this post helpful or interesting?
Yes No Thank
. Become a Supporting Member to hide this ad & support a small business
bencii Silver Member Ben Colpitts
Eden Prairie, MN, USA   USA
Sign in to contact
1966 MG MGB
1973 MG MGB
what was the compression on each cylinder? Have you adjusted the valves recently?

Was this post helpful or interesting?
Yes No Thank

To reply or ask your own question:

or

Registration is FREE and takes less than a minute

Having trouble posting or changing forum settings?
Read the Forum Help (FAQ) or contact the webmaster





Join The Club
Sign in to ask questions, share photos, and access all website features
Your Cars
1961 MG Midget MkI
Text Size
Larger Smaller
Reset Save