The following information applies directly to Spittys fitted with SU carbies and may be of some use. Spittys suffer from similar fuel problems as all English sports cars, but to a lesser extent and they are:
- Fuel blockage.
- Fuel vaporisation.
- Flooding carburetors.
I shall deal with these problems in that order.
1. Fuel Blockage
This occurs more frequently in early models as the fuel pick up is at the bottom of the tank . The later models have the fuel pick up coming down from the top of the tank which improves the situation. The reason blockages occur in the first place is usually dirty fuel from the bowser, but some times it is just a rusty tank which in both cases means tank out and cleaning.
2. Fuel Vaporisation
Due to the fuel in the lines or carbies becoming too hot and boiling, the best remedy for this problem is to use the original fuel lines and pump and just lower the under bonnet temperature. This is done very easily by properly tuning the motor, using a full width radiator, using good quality coolant, using a 160° thermostat, problem solved, would not boil in a bushfire or vaporise.
3. Flooding Carburetors
This is a situation where the carbie needle and seats are unable to hold back the small pressure (3lbs) in the fuel lines and the fuel simply gushes everywhere. The reason this happens is due to vibration and not due to heat as is commonly thought. To overcome this problem there are two things you can do:
- Make the motor run smoother which is a matter of trial and error, starting with basic tuning and/or balancing the motor, replace engine and exhaust mounts.
- Experiment with different types of needles and seats; there are basically three different types.
It is always worth the effort to get your Spitty running well as the pleasure you receive from driving your Spitty is as good as it gets.