leaking fuel

[richardb]

I know I have been totally remiss but I wanted to try and start my 1992 Excel today for the first time in about 4 years - having turned the key to the first position the fuel pump started clicking and then continued for a few seconds before I turned it off. I turned it on again and the same thing happened. This process was completed a couple of more times then I could here liquid dripping and I again turned the key off. On investigation it was found that the fuel was dripping from the air box. Having opened the air box partially, fuel could be seen dripping from the 2 inlet trumpets from the carb, nearest the windscreen. At no time was the engine turned over. Any thoughts as to whats happened would be greatly appreciated.
The air box was not fully removed as the lower clip could not be released as its operation was restricted by a hose beneath that could not be moved to one side - any thoughts on the release of this clip. Many thanks

[Alan_M]

The first thing I would check is the float needle, either stuck or not sealing.

[richardb]

Thanks for that Alan -showing my ignorance is that a simple operation? - I have a service parts list and service notes manual so will have a look in these - but if you can give any further advice I would be really grateful.

[Jason.goad]

If you can imagine something similar to the float in a toilet cistern.
A carburettor has a similar device. A float reaches the correct level and shuts the flow of petrol into the carburettor. With age the float valve can get stuck open or leak
Unscew the fuel line then remove the 4 screws on top of the carb. Then the float assembly can removed and the valve replaced. Usually a sharp tap on top of the carb will free the valve that can get stuck open. Try this first sometimes it a simple fix

[richardb]

Many thanks Jason - I'll give it a go and will report back - Cheers

[Alan_M]

This link gives some good information. It shows the needle valve. It may also be the float level is set too high meaning the fuel level in the carb is too high and overflowing. If it’s stood with old fuel in it for 4 years it may all be a bit gummed up. Get some carb cleaner ready.

http://sideways-technologies.co.uk/foru ... uel-level/

[Roadrunner]

With regard to the air-box lower clip, I had the same problem. I did eventually wrestle the clip loose but there did seem to be a fundamental issue of clearance to re-secure it. I removed the clip and cut about 8-10mm from the length of the lever. Re-fitted and now engages/releases easily without fouling pipework.

[DavidOliver]

While checking the fuel level needle valve, first great care when removing the float securing pin as you can break the supporting alloy towers, may as well replace the needles. Also check the float, in a bowl of warm water look for air bubbles.

Dave the cog.

[Phantasm]

As for the Air Box Clip. I suspect you have A/C?? The hose that is blocking you is the Low Pressure line that comes from the evaporator and goes to the compressor.
If you remove any securing items to the hard line along the bulkhead you'll probably get enough freeplay to slip past the hose with the airbox clamp. It'll scrape by and you have to hold some pressure on the hose, but it's doable. Scared me the first time I did it.
I've since retrofitted R134a to my A.C. and made my own hydraulic lines and positioned them such that they no longer foul.

You can make out the bottom right corner of the Airbox in the top left corner of the pic. The blue Quick Disconnect is on the Low Side line...

[richardb]

Many thanks to all respondents - plenty to keep me busy - I will report in due course - Cheers