HIF44 Carb hoses

[Deaconbrody]

Hi there, I have a Morris Minor Convertible with a Marina 1300 engine fitted. This engine has a HIF44 Carb. One of the hoses from the Carb goes down to the front of the engine into what I think must be some kind of filter. Could someone tell me if I am correct and if it is a filter should it be cleaned. It does look a bit oily on the outside.

[philthehill]

The oil filter (canister) you refer to on the front engine timing chain cover is the engine breather. The canister contains wire wool which acts as an oil separator. The separated/caught oil drains back to the sump.

There is no easy facility for cleaning the filter. To clean the canister/filter you have to remove the front timing chain cover and flush through with degreaser - but that is not always possible as in many cases the canister is full of crud. Below is what I raked out of a oil separator canister.

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If you do remove the timing chain cover - rake out the wire wool and replace with stainless steel pan scrubs.

It looks as though your canister has been modified in that the front half face has been cut off and a flat plate welded in place. This has been done to clear the fan blades.

[Deaconbrody]

Gosh Phil, never thought it was a breather for the engine. Is cleaning it a necessity? Or just leave it. I assume the carb draws air through it, would that cause a problem for correct carb operation if it was not clean? I will investigate what is required with removing the timing chain cover and perhaps add it into my future jobs. Never ending with an older car eh? Thanks for your reply, still learning, Ian.

[philthehill]

Remove the pipe from the carb and give a good suck on the end of the rubber pipe - if you can draw air you will be alright and put it down as another job for another day.
If you cannot draw air you need to remove the timing cover and clean.
Also if you cannot draw air - crankcase pressure can build up resulting oil leaks from various parts of the engine especially the scroll at the rear of the crankshaft/block down into the bell housing.
'A' Series engines need all the crankcase ventilation they can get and that is the most important point to take into consideration.
There may be a slight difference in fuel/air mixture if the canister is blocked but the small difference (if any) will not make a serious or noticeable difference in performance/running.

Phil

[Deaconbrody]

Just been out to the garage and took the pipe off the carb and gave it a suck. Lots of air with no noticeable blockage or heavy oil taste. So it looks as if I have got away with it for now. Gives me a chance to check out the job and do a bit of planning. Thanks for all your help, great to know you guys are there with good advice. Ian

[philthehill]

A good outcome.
Happy to be of help.
Phil