Finally got my wife's '79 Spider running after several months. Turned out the problem was really an accumulation of air/vacuum leaks. Solution was to replace carb. gaskets/seals and close off leaking emission controls like the EGR.
Car runs fine without the extra crap!! Only issue remaining is one that has bugged me since buying this car many years ago.
When the car sits for more than a couple of days, it takes forever for the mechanical fuel pump to lift enough gas to start the car. The pump was replaced a few years back but it did not change the behavior. The carb. is in decent condition having been rebuilt a few years back as well. The starting problem appears to be a common complaint. I am finally getting around to thinking seriously about adding an electric fuel pump. Does anybody have a detailed set of installation notes for this project? It seems the safest way to do the install is to ensure that the pump only runs when the engine is turning, not just the ignition switch in the "on" position. Another thought would be to install the electric pump in parallel with the existing mechanical pump and to only use it as an aid to starting. In that case it would be switched on/off independent of the ignition and just run for a minute or so prior to starting the car. Any input/help would be much appreciated.
Fuel Pump
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majicwrench
Re: Fuel Pump
Personally I would fix the issue with the current system and not add an electric pump, wiring running around, relays etc.
The mechanical pump should have a built in check valve which keeps fuel from draining back, all it takes is a little debris in it and it fails. As well, if you search,( or someone may reply) there are in-line check vavles you can install.
Keith
The mechanical pump should have a built in check valve which keeps fuel from draining back, all it takes is a little debris in it and it fails. As well, if you search,( or someone may reply) there are in-line check vavles you can install.
Keith