MF 135 won't start...help!

drmartin

New User
I have a '69 (I think) MF135 with 3-cyl gas engine and Zenith carb. I cannot get it started. I have checked for spark at the coil, and later found that the needle valve in the carb was stuck. I cleaned it and verified that gas is freely flowing. If I spray starting fluid into the air intake, the engine sputters so I know spark is getting to the plugs. Still, no start. I'm no engine guru so I need advice. What else should I check? BTW, I replaced the carb gasket with a carefully hand made one. Thanks.
 
If it hits with a shot of ether, then it 'will' run. You just need to keep at the carb.
Screwing the needles tight, then backing out 1&1/4, 1&1/2 turns is the old fashioned starting point, but if it is all gummed up, more cleaning and tweeking is needed. Good luck.
 
Did it sit for a long time by chance? If the needle valve was stuck check the float and make it's not stuck closed. When you turn the needles all the way in, pay attention to how they seat. If they feel sticky when it hits the bottom then you have a pretty bad "gummy" problem. If they seat solid and crisply then that is probably ok. Honestly though it looks like rebuild kits are only about 40 bucks. Toss in a big can of carb cleaner and have at it. Lots of resources on the net to help with the process if you are not sure.
 
By "tight" he means lightly seated by hand. Do NOT tighten any of the needles! If you do, that will score the tapered part of the needle and you will never again be able to adjust it properly. Usually all you need to do is take the carburetor apart and clean it well with spray carburetor cleaner. You should remove any all the jets too, as they may have tiny holes that you can't see unless they are out. Use the fine wire found on shipping tags to make sure all the orifices are clean. Blow it out with compressed air and you should be good to go.
 
Careful on wire in the jet though. They are brass and easily damaged. If its gummed up best to just take it out and soak it in cup of cleaner. Don't use anything more than air pressure to clear them out. I used to keep a gallon can of part cleaner around. The kind that has a parts tray and just soak everything over night. However a big can of carb cleaner and a nylon brush work wonders.
 
Thanks for all the suggestions, guys. I discovered all the jets were clogged as well. After cleaning them out, she started right up!
 

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