Hot Start Problem '77 1500

[JoeV]

Hi all I had a problem Sunday with my Midget after a highway run of 15 miles I parked for 10-15
minutes when I came out it would not start,acting as if it were flooded. Finally as I cranked it extensivly with the accelerator floored it came to life. Later on a hunch that same day I stoped again but lifted the bonnet while I shopped when I returned it started right up! I'm guessing vaper lock,but my question is how to solve it? It's a 1500 with the Zenith carb sans polution stuff runs great except for this problem only in warmer weather it was fine all winter Any ideas are much welcomed
Thanks
Joe V

 

[Trevor Jessie]

Now that the pollution stuff is gone, how is your gas tank vented? If that line was plugged off then it may be part of your problem. Next time loosen the gas when you park the car and see if it helps. Just taking a stab here, because I'm not familiar with the 1500.

 

[aeronca65t]

Yes, be sure you didn't plug the tank vent (quick and dirty solution is to drill a tiny hole in the cap).

The fuel line to the carb runs pretty close to the exhaust pipe: be sure it's insulated. Even aluminum foil wrapped around it would help (this is especially true if you still have the catalytic convertor in place).

Also, be sure the carb heat-shield is in place.

Personally, I'd run a cooler thermostat than the stock one (which is 193 F, I think). A 180 F or even 165 F thermostat might reduce underhood temps and wouldn't really hurt anything.

Be sure ignition coil and condensor are good...these can be heat-sensitive and will quit under heat if they're old.
Your not smelling gas...are you? If so, check the float in that carb.

Also, the piston diaphrams are only good for a few years in those carbs and a tiny tear will spoil them.

Your carb may have an automatic enrichment device (like a choke). Be sure it's not stuck "on".

Be sure you don't have an intake manifold leak (usually, loose bolts holding manifold to the head). To find a leak, start the car and let it idle: spray WD40 near any potential leaks...if there's a leak, the engine will suck in the WD40 and slow down a bit.

Check valve adjustment. Tight valves can create hot-start problems.

Sometimes, a partly plugged fuel filter or weak fuel pump can cause re-start problems.

[ 03-30-2004: Message edited by: aeronca65t ]</p>