Is this MFI thermostat dirty?
 

My 73E runs very rich, so I had a feeling I'd find the thermostat dirty. But just how bad is this and would this alone make it run like pooh?

Now, it doesn't want to start. Can I remove the side cover and see if the thermostat is doing its job?

http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1130184463.jpg http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1130184480.jpg http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1130184495.jpg http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1130184511.jpg

That would be considered very dirty. you may want to remove the MFI pump and clean it out as well.

Yep! Time for a soak and brush-down in B-12 Chemtool ...

Be sure the hot air hose is not crimped, undamaged, clear, and blowing HOT air continuously after warm-up!

Would you please count the number of bi-metal discs, note their orientation, and measure the spacer washers. That will help us all. Clearly the seal to the pump leaks. What are the numbers on that seal? What is the thickness of the gasket between the thermostat and the pump?

I will second Warren’s advice. The prescribed warm-up curve is very important.

Best,
Grady

Sure, I will do that, Grady. Is this the gasket you're referring to, the very thin fiber one?http://forums.pelicanparts.com/uploa...1130195294.jpg

Yup, that is the gasket. If you have the ability, it would be worthwhile to post a scan of the gasket so others can manufacture a duplicate.

The thickness of that gasket is important to setting the thermostat.

Best,
Grady

Wow, I didn't realize they could get that oily. Is there actually oil pressure in the part of the pump with the whole compensating mechanism? I thought maybe that area was "splash lubricated". I find it surprising that oil could actually get out through the hole in the back of the pump housing, past the gasket, down the rod, and into the thermostat. Could that be indicative of internal problems in the pump?