MG Midget beginner (1978)

[RichC1968]

Hi- wondering if someone can help me.
Im trying to bring back to life my partners midget. It’s been sat in her garage for around 15 years. I’ve changed the oil and drained the fuel. The engine is free and I’m getting compression on all cylinders. Here comes the question, the rubber fuel pipes seem to have perished and I think the fuel pump is knackered. I see there are 2 types of pump. One with a straight arm and the newer one with a spacer and curved. Looking at the net my engine number should have the spacer one with the curved arm however it’s fitted with the straight arm version. What difference would that make please?

 

[JPSmit]

First of all welcome. The fuel pump is mechanical, operated by the cam shaft. I presume the spacer aligns the curved arm better and probably keeps the pump a bit cooler. Before you start replacing things, make sure the pump works. assuming you have it off the car, you should be able to pump it by hand and see if there is vacuum on the rear facing side with your finger over the hole. Also, assuming your partner drove the car into the garage, it should br OK. The diaphram can break but generally they are built to last.

Make sure you get ethanol worthy fuel lines.

Lot's of good advice here so feel free to ask questions.