noisy MGB fuel pump

Expect to hear a rapid ticking noise from an SU when first you switch on. This should slow and stop before you turn the key, as pressure builds rapidly up in the fuel hoses further forward. The pump is set up primarily as a 'pusher', that is why it is mounted so low. Generally you do not hear the periodic click when the engine is running.

If the pump is clacking away on turning the key,and does not slow & stop then either you have a large ( and dangerous) puddle beneath the carbs, or perhaps the pump diaphram is split. In this case you may barely be reaching operating pressure at the carbs. Do you notice no hesitation foot to the floorboards at high revs?

In the UK we can still get SU pump spares, but most people ( I think) move quickly to replace the OE with a Hall effect solid state equivalent at nominal cost. That will still give you a reassuring ticking noise, and mine has now done about 30,000 miles without problem.

best of luck P

'67 B '98 F

Hi, I think it could also be that air is getting into your system between the tank and the pump. I have a Midget (don't know if the B suffers from the same issue) and have now gone through two tanks where the metal pipe has corroded through at the join to the tank. This effectively means that the pump is working on air - makes lots of noise and will sometimes not be able to supply enough fuel. Could also mean that fuel leaks out at the join. Might be worth checking.