Nearly there

[terry52]

Had 1973 40 plus in shed which has not run for about 30 years. Completely dead when first tried it, but thanks to tips on this site have got it sort of running now. My problem is that engine starts well but as soon as I open choke it dies. Only way I can keep engine running Is by leaving choke shut and holding my hand over air intake using a rapid "tap-tap" rhythmn to keep it going. Cleaned carb and fiddled with needle setting but engine still not running properly. Running out of ideas now, but feeling I am almost there. Just need a few tips from you learned gents. Thanks.

[charlesp]

Sounds a little like fuel starvation.

Are you running on the correct mix?

Take the tap and filter out of the tank, and the one out of the craburettor, and thoroughly clean them and the pipe as well.

Check that the carburettor is clean too, and the needle valve is allowing fuel through.

[livewire]

I concur definitely a fuel problem.

http://www.saving-old-seagulls.co.uk/fa ... s_carb.htm

Did you clean the whole fuel system including both fuel filters?

One is the end of your fuel cock, the other on the banjo bolt item 23.

I usually strip the whole carb down including removing the centre piece, i then clear the small hole in the carb intake with the approrriate sized drill bit as i've found these blocked as well.

Another tinker and it'll be running fine.

[joe]

May not apply, but I had a similar experience with a '75 Silver Century Plus and assumed that the carb was a 10:1 version when in fact (or I believe) it was a 25:1. Operated normal after fresh 25:1 fuel. I am not familiar with 40 Plus. See recent WSPCL choke item in general discussion for further details if interested.

[terry52]

Thanks for tips. Have cleaned fuel system again ready for another trial in the next couple of days. Engine converted to 25-1 after John supplied conversion kit. I am sure mix is ok. Thanks for help. Will keep you posted on trial! Terry52

[terry52]

Pleased to say engine fired up on first pull and now have full power. For the record, I am now sure problem was caused by the fine gauze filter in the fuel pipe at the bango bolt. I had cleaned it in petrol previously but I now think it must have been partially blocked by dried oil deposits as I soaked it in thinners no. 3, which I use for cleaning anti fouling brushes, and then the engine fired up. Thanks for all the advice. There is now another Seagull afloat doing the job it was made for! Terry