MGB Looking for best info regarding throttle cable replacement.

[Celtic 77]

Hey all, I am looking for the best way to install a throttle cable on my 77 B. Could be the cause of a fast or fluctuating idle?

 

[JagConsult2]

probably NOT the cause of idle fluctuation. the cable shpuld have a wee bit or free play when installed and secured to the throttle bracket. Quite possibly a slight vacuum leak created the idle fluctuation, snug the manifild and carb bolts when the car is cold.

 

[Celtic 77]

probably NOT the cause of idle fluctuation. the cable shpuld have a wee bit or free play when installed and secured to the throttle bracket. Quite possibly a slight vacuum leak created the idle fluctuation, snug the manifild and carb bolts when the car is cold.

Thanks for that.. Will try as soon as I fiddle with the other stuff that my beast seemed to stored for years.!

 

[JPSmit]

easiest way to check is to disconnect the cable at the carb. probably easier with a second set of hands, but, if the idle is erratic without the cable connected your issue is elsewhere.

 

[Celtic 77]

easiest way to check is to disconnect the cable at the carb. probably easier with a second set of hands, but, if the idle is erratic without the cable connected your issue is elsewhere.

Many thanks...it'll keep me busy !!!

 

[JPSmit]

and if I can make one more suggestion - loosen the cable but don't remove it - just let it slide. The ends tend to get a bit frayed making it very hard to reinstall. Don't ask me how I know.

 

[DrEntropy]

Hey all, I am looking for the best way to install a throttle cable on my 77 B. Could be the cause of a fast or fluctuating idle?

What carb(s) are you dealing with? The cable disconnect *may* give some insight but a spray bottle with water, engine up to temp, spray around all the intake joints around the manifold and note any changes in running at idle would be my "first step". That will indicate if/where a vacuum leak exists.

 

[emmett1010]

as an aside question, wher/how can I get a longer accel cable for a cross flow head?

 

[DrEntropy]

as an aside question, wher/how can I get a longer accel cable for a cross flow head?

Have a look at bicycle brake cables. Different lengths and many are Teflon lined and smoother than the usual replacements from LBC parts suppliers.

 

[Joe Reed]

A bike shop can make you one, or you can just get a kit from Walmart and make your own....

 

[drooartz]

Have a look at bicycle brake cables. Different lengths and many are Teflon lined and smoother than the usual replacements from LBC parts suppliers.

We did this on a friend's GT when the cable snapped on a road trip -- just happened to stop right across from a shop that had bike parts. Bought a 2-pack and she had a spare. Far as I know the car is still using that bike cable.

My Morris has a generic cable, possibly from a hot rod shop or Summit Racing (can't remember). Needed something different than stock due to my setup, it works great.

 

[Celtic 77]

What carb(s) are you dealing with? The cable disconnect *may* give some insight but a spray bottle with water, engine up to temp, spray around all the intake joints around the manifold and note any changes in running at idle would be my "first step". That will indicate if/where a vacuum leak exists.

The awesome Zenith-Stromberg

 

[JPSmit]

The awesome Zenith-Stromberg

I could never get my ZS to run right - in part because I understand that it really likes to have all the original gubbins - original air filter, all the pollution stuff etc. etc. The carb also has a water choke that almost always is broken by now. On mine, (Midget) I finally put an SU carb on it with a manual choke and the car was ever so much happier.

 

[DrEntropy]

The awesome Zenith-Stromberg

"Awesome" isn't one of the descriptors I'd choose to label a late '70's Zed-S carb!

 

[Celtic 77]

"Awesome" isn't one of the descriptors I'd choose to label a late '70's Zed-S carb!

That's because this is a "family" site !!!

 

[DrEntropy]

If you do decide to rebuild it or want it done by someone familiar with 'em, Joe Curto's outfit is top-of-the-list for parts or rebuild service. And they're almost next door to you.

 

[Celtic 77]

If you do decide to rebuild it or want it done by someone familiar with 'em, Joe Curto's outfit is top-of-the-list for parts or rebuild service. And they're almost next door to you.

All this info is greatly appreciated, and I think I have finally narrowed it down to electrical...per a well-respected MG/Triumph restorer and mechanic here in NJ. He's taking the car in to evaluate it and give me list of priorities from a safety standpoint. The car starts and runs smoothly then after no more than 1/2 mile starts to break and stumble slightly. Then time to nurse it home. Time for a pro!