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MGB Stormberg leaking like a sieve

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Boggsy64

Boggsy64

Jedi Hopeful
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Since getting the car in Arizona there has always been a very strong fuel smell after driving this car. I was reinstalling the rack and pinion and turned the key to get the wheel unlocked. i turned the key too far and to ignition position. Heard the fuel pump come on, and then quickly turned the key back.
Under I the hood again I then found a healthy puddle of gas in the frame below the carb. Looked online about rebuilding the carb and ordered parts including the bowl plug. This plug is at least 5/8" diameter with a rubber o ring. Went back out to see if this was in fact the leak point. I turned the key to ignition for just a second and sat there watching fuel pour out of the plug for 15 seconds!
I will get the rebuild kit in a few days, (along with new bowl plug) but everyone with this carb needs to aware of this safety hazard. Lucky I did not burn this thing to the ground after driving 2200 miles with a leak that bad. Driving it did not smell as bad, probably the vacuum while running, but engine off..watch out! The bottom float bowl o ring is a definite leak hazard.
 
Those plastic floats are bad to fill up with gas and pour gas everywhere. Easy to change out but the carbs will have to come off.

Marv
 
My parent's '73 E-Type has had one of it's Stromberg carbs do the same thing just last month. I suspect it's an age thing. Look out for sights and smells of these old cars.
Chris...
 
One thing you might check is the gasket around the float bowl. My buddy's Jag had the same issue and come to find out that the excess gasket material was hanging up the float. Took a razor knife and trimmed it back, all is good.
 
The leak definitely from the plug in the bottom of the float bowl (Moss part number 366-070). The old o-ring was so loose the plug nearly fell out. With new plug all is good... for now. What the purpose is for a plastic plug in the bottom of the float bowl is anyone's guess?? Immerse a rubber o-ring in gas for years and deterioration and hardening is sure to happen.
 
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