delbene@homxa.UUCP (K.DELBENE) (10/22/85)
On the question of how to set MGB valves, I set mine at .014 hot and haven't run into any problems. This is tighter than recommended, but I hate the noise that is generated otherwise (I've set them this way for years, so don't anyone flame me that I'll burn my valves, etc.). As noted, there is a *BIG* difference between setting cold and hot, so keep this in mind. There are other sources of valve noises on B's, the most common being a sloppy rocker shaft or a worn out cam. If you set them as tight as you dare and still have the noise, I suggest you break down the top end for a good overhaul. Another way to remove a lot of the noise is to replace the thin rocker box cover with an alloy one. The other side effect is that it looks fantastic (You can get one from Moss Motors, 1-800-235-6954, or the MG Owners Club, 2/4 Statin Road, Swavesey, Cambridgeshire CB4 5QJ - yes that's in England). As far as the German car owner that responded on the same, doesn't everyone know that MGs aren't like any other car? On the MGB fuel pump points, the SU fuel pump is a very easily maintained component. I've overhauled mine a couple of times, always with good results. Never replace them until you absolutely have to (since they run $80+ per!). I recommend buying the Haynes shop manual and a rebuild kit. The instructions in the former are easily followed. Good Luck! Kurt D. Del Bene Bell Labs - WLB ...!ihnp4!homxa!delbene