1969 Triumph Spitfire Maintenance 8-20-19:

Issue: Car would start and idle very rough, would die with application of throttle. It appeared that it was either
flooding out, or fuel starvation. A rich fuel exhaust smell led to suspect fuel system problem. However even at
idle #1 and #2 plugs were firing very weak, running rough indicative of an ignition malady.
The fuel in tank was low and the fuel was old (10 months +).

Work Accomplished:

Removed, cleaned and gaped spark plugs to .025

Installed new spark plug wires and coil wire

Installed new distributor base plate ground wire

Installed new distributor points, adjusted to .015” and lubed cam lobes

Checked timing +20 BTDC (should be 3-5 BTDC)

Cleaned both carburetor bowls, and freed up needle valves. Evidence of debris from deteriorating fuel filter
found in aft carb. Floats OK

Replaced ¼ in. rubber fuel line from tank hard line to both carbs

Installed new fuel filter

Replaced vacuum line hose.

Replenished fuel system with 5 gallons fresh gasoline.

Repaired broken choke cable, reinstalled and adjusted.

Lubricated and adjusted heater control mechanism for cold setting.

Accomplished expert bodywork on right door with specialized tool (toilet plunger).

Findings: After fresh fuel reached the carbs, the engine began to smooth out and was running good. After
approximately 30 seconds it would stall. After a few minutes it would start again only to stall after several
seconds. Suspecting an ignition problem, the car was “hot-wired” with a jumper lead from coil to battery and
the car ran smoothly and did not stall.

Diagnosis: Ignition switch or ignition wires are heating or shorting after running a short time stalling engine.

Plan: Inspect ignition wires for condition, possibly trim and reconnect if substantial wire material remains. If
necessary replace ignition switch.