Technical I get REALLY BAD Gas mileage. What's wrong?!?!

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Technical I get REALLY BAD Gas mileage. What's wrong?!?!

jacob25119

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I have a 1979 Fiat Spider. I have tested the miles per gallon about 3 times and each time it is really bad! I've been getting like 11, 12, and 13 mpg. But I dont understand why?

I just did a basic tune up and am hoping that will improve it, but I dont think it will do that much. I just replaced the condenser, plugs, fuel filter, oil, oil filter. Just the basics.

But is there any reason why it would be getting such poor mileage? It should be getting at least about 18-20mpg right?

Any suggestions?

Thanks! Jacob
 
You should be getting 20+ mpg. Check and reset your ignition timing. Check your carb and make sure the choke is releasing after the engine is warmed-up.
 
I think I found the source of the problem...well at least part of the problem. I looked at the choke, it actually wasn't closing at all...so it just stays open. Which shouldn't be a problem on the mileage...right?

But when I looked at the air cleaner assembly, I noticed a problem. I don't know the name of the part but its the part that opens and closes to allow hot or cold air to the carburettor, right before the carb. It was broken, so it was pretty much stuck and only letting in hot air from the engine. I bypassed that part by just tie strapping it, so now it doesn't let in any air from the engine in the carb. I realize that it will take longer to warm up...but this should help with my problem right?

Thanks...Jacob
 
I think I found the source of the problem...well at least part of the problem. I looked at the choke, it actually wasn't closing at all...so it just stays open. Which shouldn't be a problem on the mileage...right?

Thanks...Jacob

Jacob, Sounds like ur running REALLY rich. The choke not opening or closing could account for the gas mileage issue all right, also ur exhaust would still reek like gasoline instead of like the usual carbon monoxide smell. Do you have choke issues at idle? Might be that is was tuned to cover another problem. Mine's doing the same thing right now but I'm waiting to work on that issue until AFTER I get some body work done so that I don't wind up dragging my butt down the road when the seat falls thru... As for the air intake issue, I'd get that sorted as well but I doubt that played as big a part as the choke being stuck... Just my 2 cents from issues I've seen with my own! (y)
 
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