new engine, not running for longer than a few seconds

[hanvyj]

Hi,

I've just fit a reconditioned 1275. I got to the point of turning it over but it seems to make a worrying bang/crack noise when I start it. Sometimes it doesn't and runs for a few seconds but sometimes it does it just as it starts.

Also, its a 1275 with the standard carb and exhaust (for now) will the carb be set up for the 1098? Would this prevent it running for more than a few second?

[hanvyj]

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eEIuAraT ... e=youtu.be

You cant hear it very well, but right at the end is most pronounced, you can hear the echo afterwards just before the video stops

[IslipMinor]

So long as there is fuel, the carb should not stop it running, at least on light throttle openings.

How have you set up the distributor and timing? What distributor are you using?

[hanvyj]

The distributor is an electronic one, I have been adjusting it by turning it by hand while its running,, I'll try some finer adjustments to see if I can get it to run longer.

[IslipMinor]

What distributor is it, and what advance curve does it have? With the vacuum disconnected, the advance should be around 5° BTDC at idle, and no more than 32/34° BTDC at 4000 rpm. These are very general figures, but will ensure that the engine runs without any problems of over-advance and potential damage to the new engine.

It is very easy to over-advance the timing at idle, because it seems to run very nicely, only for it to be over-advanced at slightly higher engine speeds and cause real problems.

[hanvyj]

So, take the number one plug out (furthest) and crank until the piston is at the top, then rotate the dizzy until the rotor arm is 5 degrees counter clockwise of hitting the pin for no 1 lead?

[bmcecosse]

It doesn't need to be THAT accurate at the moment. Get it running properly first.... As long as it's not kicking against the starter - is that what your 'bang/crack is??? Retard it - it will then start and you can get it warmed up before trying to set it properly. Are the spark plug leads on correct order - 1342 anticlockwise around the dizzy cap ?? Don't worry about carb at the moment either.....

[hanvyj]

Oh, the advance curve should be suited to the engine, it came with it (rebuilt by a series spares).

I just remembered that the vac advance tube didn't reach from the carb though so I didn't have it on (this never made a difference with my previous car though)

[hanvyj]

How do I tell if its kicking against the starter (do you mean the handle? If so, that's not it)

The order is 1342, but I think that is clockwise... I'll check!

[hanvyj]

Got it running, it was just a matter of getting the timing right.

I think the knocking was caused by a tool wedged in it!

[IslipMinor]

Pleased to hear that and a bit of a relief, since it is a new engine!

[mike.perry]

Reconditioned 1275, check for oil drips at the back of the engine

[hanvyj]

What would cause the oil drips?

[bmcecosse]

Don't worry about it until you get them......