engine nearly died....

[samuria]

got stuck in traffic and the engine wanted to die...
it was very lumpy. when i did get moving it seemed ok
until the next hold up...
never had this happen before....
it was ticking over ok but just got worse

[bmcecosse]

Set too rich? Was the fuel pump ticking furiously?

[samuria]

Set too rich? Was the fuel pump ticking furiously?

yes it was roy

[bmcecosse]

Well - likely the float valve is leaking and fuel was overflowing the jet - not a problem when running along, the fuel is then used - but makes it too rich at idle......

[samuria]

whats the cure for leaking float valve please

[Trickydicky]

If its brass then you could solder the hole, if its plastic then all you can do is replace it. If you can solder it make sure the float has no petrol in it when you repair it, if you trap liquid in it then it will be heavier.

[mogbob]

The cure for most people.. is to replace the valve with either a standard one or a Grose jet ( claimed to have a superior non stick/ better flow control ).
Fans of both options will argue their case.

Replacement part , either option, costs circa £9 / £11 pounds.

DIY ? disconnect battery, remove and plug the petrol supply pipe to carb.Have a rag to catch any drips of petrol.
Remove carb lid screws (3) and undo the existing valve.A thin box spanner ( of the right size ? sorry can't recall off hand ) is useful.Clean out the bowl of the carb, if there is sediment present.
Replace and refit with new lid gasket ( £1.55'ish ).Refit the supply pipe ( replace if the rubber pipe is looking as though it's perishing ..engine fires aren't good news !! ).Clean up and reconnect the battery when all secure.

If the cause was dirt/ bit of grit stuck in the valve, rather than a worn valve, you can sometimes get away with just blowing the valve through with an airline / bicycle foot pump but most people choose the straight replacement option.
Bob

[samuria]

many thanks for the info guys
will have a go later today

[M25VAN]

I had a similar problem recently. Philthehill had the clever suggestion of dunking the float in a cup of hot water. If it's holey then bubbles will come out.

[bmcecosse]

Yes - for the float that's right. The valve when inspected will likely have a ridge worn on the seat. The Grose valve uses a ball rather than a taper pin to seal. They should be great - but I know someone who bought a pair for his MGB and had endless problems with flooding - so they may be sensitive to supply pressure...which shouldn't be a problem with a Minor.