MGB GT Episode 53 Starter Motor Loose Bolt

I decided to do a couple of small jobs, but one took rather longer than expected
#MGB

[@David-wy9jl]

I think it's the white wire under the bonnet that goes to the fuel pump. You can try and hit the fuel pump with a hammer. Sometimes the points stick and hitting the pump jars the points loose. Don't think the fuel pump wire is fused.

[@HenrysGarage]

Thanks David, I'll be taking a look at it from tomorrow I think

[@garethgoodchild2643]

Good work on the bolt Henry. That was a real pain. Good solution though. When tapping you really need to add some oil and work the tap back and forth to avoid snapping it. Also too big a tap in too small a hole will usually cause a problem. Lastly, when closing the bonnet you should push with both hands at the outside edges of the front of the bonnet. Otherwise you will get some big dents. You may have some there already. WRT the fuel pump, you can check for 12v at the pump. If it’s hot (power there) then try a tap with small hammer while power is on. Sometimes this will get it going. However, you may get it happening again which means a rebuild of the pump points or a new pump is required.

[@HenrysGarage]

Thanks Gareth - good to know about the bonnet. Most of the damage to it is due to not locking it down properly that one time. I've never got the shape back properly - I remain very cross with myself about it. Sounds like a simple check on the fuel pump so I'll be looking today

[@carstenmoore5760]

Hi Henry, That was shame about the tap, but at least you have a workable solution. With your fuel pump being inoperative I would start by checking for voltage at the pump. (ignition on of course) If you have voltage then it's going to be the points stuck as David and Gareth have already suggested. If you have no voltage I would think your dodgy connection at the steering column is the culprit. I believe the ignition barrel multiplug is the one with 7 ways, 3 of which are unused. One wire should be totally white, which is the start of the ignition circuit (fuel pump, overdrive & ignition relay circuits) If the plug is a bit 'iffy' then the starter motor circuit (white with red tracer) can be working but the white ignition circuit dead. Good luck with it.

[@HenrysGarage]

Thanks Carsten. I've just finished sorting it and you almost got it spot on. Loose connection was because of the work I had been doing on the starter motor and all the bullet connections in the region. I think I must have given them a good knock

[@carstenmoore5760]

@@HenrysGarage Glad it's sorted.👍 Make sure that multipoint bullet holder is all firmly together as that is also the supply point for your overdrive circuit.