If you have fitted some other carburettor or distributor to your engine and still have the original unit, it is a good idea to have the
original unit rebuilt and fitted to the engine.
Also worn out cylinders, pistons, piston rings, valves and valve guides will give increased fuel consumption. Although there were some sounds from this engine I feel it is fairly good. A compression test could confirm or indicate the opposite.
Incorrect spark plugs can also increase the fuel consumption.
Incorrect tyre pressure and wheel alignment also increase the fuel consumption Bad pull off springs or sticking wheel cylinders in the braking system will also increase the fuel consumption.
As you can see, there can be plenty of reasons for high fuel consumption and it is a major task to find out the actual reason. Often it is a mix of small things adding up to something you can measure.
Part of the job in finding the fault is straightforward and easy, although it can be time consuming and cost you some money. It is a pleasure to drive a well performing Morris Minor. This is also worth paying for. Many Morris Minor Owners put performance first and economy next. Often good performance will mean good economy.
In the everyday you can expect 12-16 km/l. If it is under 12, you should find out the reason. If you are using your car in Colombo only, below 12 can be fair enough. If you are driving you Morris Minor in a nice and soft way in peaceful surroundings, it is possible to do over 16 km/l.
Best way to find out the actual fuel consumption is to note down the reading of your meter and the litres whenever you refuel. In some time you will be able to calculate the fuel consumption fairly accurately.
Happy motoring
Anton Kamp
Fuel pressure: ¾ to 1 lb/sq.in. - .05 to .07 kg/sq.m.
Float level: early carburettors 5/16" - late 1/8" - 3.18 mm.
Spark plugs: Champion N5, later developed to N9Y and N9YC.