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MGA MGA hard starting sometime backfires

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dwnuk

Freshman Member
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I have a 1958 MGA with SU carbs. It has become very hard starting. When it does turn over and start it begins like it is not running on all cylinders. Than it kicks in and runs fine. Takes a long time to idle before I can disengage the choke. While at idle if it drops below 900 RPM the engine cuts out and has to be restarted. When first started at times there is a backfire in the engine compartment not the exhaust tailpipe.

Any suggestions greatly appreciated

Thank you
 
I'd first check timing; both ignition & cam timing. Possibly the cam chain tensioner has failed?

But first, Ignition points being way out of adjustment can affect ignition timing & cause this also. Check your points dwell.

Colin
 
Are you sure the choke is working properly? Although you are pulling out the choke knob, it isn't doing any choking?
 
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