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MG TD TF 1500 - Swapping the Bowden Choke Cable for Piano Wire.

Thought I should elaborate on why it is useful to make this change.
I have fitted Teflon O rings in place of the graphite cork jet seals and have not had any issues for many years with this set up.
The jets move up and down freely but even with the return springs replaced, they do not move back on their own. I don't think they ever did.
When the choke is pushed back in, the multi strand cable will bend and even when strengthened with solder, did not assist the jets to move all the way back up to the jet nuts.
The problem is solved by replacing the Bowden cable with solid Piano Wire. Now the jets are pushed back up firmly, and my engine does not run rich after choke usage.
I no longer have to open the Bonet and push them up by hand, once the engine is warm.
Rod





Rod Jones

BTW does this happen to the rear carb if the two carbs are disconnected by the cross linkage?

Also is there no recommended lube for the Teflon O rings and of course are they the correct size?
Christopher Couper

Chris,
Other than just to test, I don't know if it is workable without the cross link connected. It certainly adds to the stiffness in the system with both jet leavers in play. Even with both return springs attached. Thay do not pull the jets all the way back up on their own. I have had the Teflon O rings for over 10 years now (courtesy of Tom Bryant) and have had absolutely no issues with them. Lube has not been applied, or I think needed. Carbs are dry below and no leak ever seen. The stiffness in the way this works, just requires a little push to get the jets to move back up to the jet nut for optimum mixture for normal running. I do use a little Lithium white grease in the choke cable tube. As it does not freeze and helps lube the action. Keeping the path of the choke cable to the jet linkage as straight as possible is also advisable. I just got tired of having to open the bonnet to manually push the jets back up once the engine was warm. Piano Wire solved that for me - But I do think using Silver Solder to stiffen the last 5 inches of the Bowden cable might produce the same effect. Normal solder did not last for me. As you can see from the photo.
Rod
Rod Jones

I used a narrow section of old radio antenna tubing on the wire to prevent the woven strand wire kinking. Works well. The other aspect is to check the tension of the return springs to the carburettors. One of mine was stretched beyond useful operation. That said, the 'piano' wire suggestions sounds a useful modification.
M Hyde

Sounds good. What size piano wire?

Gord Clark
Rockburn, Qué.
Gord Clark

Gordon,
I used this wire from amazon.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08KSJK9PM?ref=ppx_yo2ov_dt_b_fed_asin_title

I have an extra bit if you need it. Just PM me where.
Rod
Rod Jones

This thread was discussed between 16/01/2025 and 20/02/2025

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