I tried to start the mini convertible after it had been left dorment for about eight months. I replaced the battery and put some petrol in the tank and carby. The car started then would die after a few seconds. Now it won't even start.
What do you think the problem is?

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DO IT ONCE, DO IT RIGHT

Flooded it Mate!

I don't think it's flooded because I have only tried to start it about four times and the first three times it started and then it idled down and konked out. Then the fourth time when I turned the key it wouldn't even kick over.

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DO IT ONCE, DO IT RIGHT

you have to go throu the cheak list..Spark plugs leads cap points fuel filter..ets ets ets

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Stop Licking the Dog...I Don't Care Who Started It

Having same sort of problems here-when vehicles are sitting around for extended periods and not started.
Finding that the fuel has"gone-off"-especially 98 premium.The fuel turns to a jelly type subtance in the fuel float bowl,then needle and seat sticks.Take top off and ckeck if the fuel has evaporated in here.If you didn't have much fuel in your tank,this also happens in the fuel tank-then when you go to start the vehicle,this "mess" of fuel gets pumped thru the whole fuel system.Usually fowling plugs or will not start.
This also is a problem on other fuel injected make of vehicles,and blocks up the injectors,and won't start.
This only happens when vehicles are sitting around for a long periods.

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I'll check the plugs tomorrow but the fuel problem sounds like the problem. My boss said it could have old fuel cause when I told him it started then konked out afterwards he pointed me towards the fuel and said to check if it was old and off.
How would I get rid of the old fuel at the bottom of the tank if it were the problem?

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DO IT ONCE, DO IT RIGHT

There may be a drain plug (I don't know) but I think the easiest way would be to syphon it out just dont get a mouthful of petrol YUGH

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Roads need more corners
A Deluxe(CG13DE), 2 Clubbies(998 and 1275) and 2 Morris 1100Ss

It wouldn't by any chance have an electric pump on the rear subframe huh?
Mighta started, used up the fuel in the carby bowls and then stopped.

If it has then give it a kick or a rattle to get it going again.

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SooperDooperMiniCooperExpertEngineering

All garage work involves equal measures of enthusiasm, ingenuity and a fair degree of irresponsibility.