Re: [DML] Was Re: Accumalator now Inertia switch

[Martin Gutkowski <webmaster@xxxx>]

jtrealtywebspannet wrote:

> The inertia switch was located by the lambda counter on the early
> cars. In a recall it was relocated to the area by the bonnet release
> because it was being hit by the driver's feet and being tripped
> inadvertantly. There was also a recall involving replacing "defective"
> or overly sensitive inertia switches. If your switch doesn't have a
> white splotch of paint on it then it may not have been replaced.

I'll be checking this today. Mine is a May 81 so is very likely to have it in the
original position (though I don't remember seeing it), and I have spent some time "down
there"! If it IS there, it's unlikely to have had the recall - no other recalls have been
performed on my car with the exception of the door guides. I like the "originality" of my
car. It's one of the things that attracted me to it.

> I
> have also seen where the switches were bypassed. This may be the case
> in your car where not only was it bypassed but also removed. I
> strongly recomend having a working inertia switch because not only
> will it shut off the fuel pump in the event of a serious accident,
> it's other purpose is to unlock the doors. This is important because
> the driver may panic and not unlock the doors before trying to open
> them or (worst case) if the driver is unconcious it allows rescuers to
> remove the occupants quickly and without having to damage the car
> further. Of course this assumes that the central locking system is
> functional. The Delorean venders all carry the "improved" inertia
> switch and can help you with the install.

I'm actually working on my central locking module today, and on Paul Salsbury's, whose
module doesn't work at all. Although mine's functional from the passenger lock barrel,
from the driver's inside lock rocker, it only works after the car's warmed up. I haven't
traced the cause yet, but I suspect the connection to the passenger solenoid given the
behaviour. Whatever happenns, I'm replacing the relays, caps and trannies, and installing
protection diodes. There's nothing really wrong with the module, it's just weak and has a
couple of easily rectifiable design flaws.

As to the inertia switch, I'll have a hunt for it. Wiring isn't a problem for me.

>
> The filter located in the tank is only supposed to keep the "big
> stuff" out of the pump. You really shouldn't try to filter too fine on
> the suction side of a pump. Most in-line filters are supposed to be on
> the pressure side.

I bought this one from an MG specialist down the road - it's meant for the fuel pickup. I
understand the pickup filter's only to keep out the "big stuff" but given the pump's
absolutely silent now instead of whining and rattling to the point the car would cut out,
I'm happy with it.

> If the filter inside the tank was very dirty you
> should clean out the tank and replace the filter by the rear wheel.

It's hard to say, but what with being a brand new tank, I can only assume there was some
sort of dust in it (although from new they have protection caps on all the openings).
I'll be changing the fuel filter as a matter of course in the next 500 miles.

Oh, the car suddenly regained all its power on the motorway the other night, after 90 of
a 110 mile trip. I hope it still has it - I'm off for a spin now. It's so much nicer to
drive with the new tyres! I've got Pirelli P600s on the back and P6000s on the front.

Cheers again

Martin
#1458