Hi all, I'm a bit confused...


On my inlet manifold on my series 3, there seems to be a small metal pipe underneath, leading down, this looks as if it has been snapped at some stage, and now and again after switching off the engine, some petrol leaks out.

Also in the engine block, on the same side as the manifolds, there appears to be a small hole that had a pipe screwed into it with a union. this also appears to have been snapped off.

Are they meant to be joined? If not does anyone know what they are for?

Also one other quick question. What grade of oil should I use to replace the oil in the gearbox (no overdrive) and in the rear differential?


Many thanks
Alex

If the pipe is in the centre of the manifold, underneath, it is indeed a drain for excess fuel. It should be made of something like brake pipe and extend down about 4" and be bent to clear the exhaust. The Zeniths (or the Solex) have enthusiastic accelerator pumps, and you can get a lot of petrol in the manifold if you press the accelerator a few times. I presume that the carbs were jetted to allow for the small amount of air which will normally enter via this open pipe.
If the other pipe is also halfway along - but screws into the block, it is the water drain. It should also have a small pipe connected, leading forward to the front mounting plate where there should be a tap to drain the block of water. I cannot explain why Rootes thought it better to drain onto the front wishbone pivot rather than straight down! If this pipe is cut off and blocked, the only drawback is that you won't be able to drain the block - so always use anti-freeze (which, with an alloy head you must anyway).

........so DO NOT join them!
Engine oil (20W/50) is correct for the gearbox - with or without overdrive. Don't use anything else.

Hi Chris

Many thanks for that, yes the pipe under the manifold is metal, I am going to replace it with a new bit of copper brake pipe. As for the one in the block, unless I can get hold of a tap for the pipe, i'll just have to leave as is for now.

Any ideas about the oil grade in the rear differential?

Cheers
Alex

Rear axle and steering box both use EP90