Engine fails, after a couple of miles.

[Andresfalk]

Hi,
Anyone can give me a help with my moggy?

I bought a MM saloon 1969 to drive everyday to work, a 5 miles journey. All was ok, I enjoy every mile that I drive my fantastic car. But, a few weeks ago, something happened and I can't find what it is.
It all started when suddenly the engine failed or, better said, it cuts out and recover again, like stop start stop start. I stop for a few moments, started the engine again and it runs well more a couple of miles, then again, stop and starts. It never stops but jolts a lot.
Can anyone give me some ideas about what is the problem?

Thanks and best.

[beero]

Sounds like fuel starvation. Check the pump is clicking regularly. Check the filter in the pump. You could undo the fuel pipe to the carb and put it in a bottle and with the ignition on you should get about a pint a minute if I remember correctly. (someone will be along soon to correct me on that, I'm sure)

[lambrettalad]

something is working well then breaking down ,try the condenser ,if not the fuel system

[bmcecosse]

Most likely as above is a pump/filter problem. If there is an additional non standard fuel filter fitted - get rid of it! But also could be a vacuum developing in the fuel tank if the cap is not ventilated. So yes - pump fuel into a can (no smoking!!) and tell us how long to pump a couple of pints.

[simmitc]

Most likely fuel problem. It could be a blocked vent leading to vacuum in pump, debris in float chamber, sticking needle valve, even a sticking piston (in the carb, not the engine). It could also be electrical: condenser or (very unlikely) coil. Start with the fuel.

If the pump is delivering a good flow of fuel, then remove the air filter and the piston damper in the carb. Use a finger to lift the piston right up and then let go. It should drop with a clunk. Remove the lid of the lid of the float chamber (three screws, the last of which can just about be undone without taking off the air filter base). Look in the bowl for debris and clean as required. You can reconnect the fuel pipe and check the operation of the float valve. Good luck, report back with findings, and I'm sure we'll get the car running quickly.

[Trickydicky]

I would start with the condensor as it is the simplest fix from the symptoms you describe, if after replacement the fault still occours put the original condensor back in and as others have suggested check the fuel system next.