MGB Rebuilding a 1977 MGB

[lacombe]

Hello everyone. I am very new to the classic car scene, especially MG’s. My father passed away and left me his 1977 MGB, I graduated this summer so with the extra free time i have started to rebuilt it and get it going again after sitting for about 8 years. So far I haven’t caught any serious snags (engine turns over, starter cranks, etc) however, i am having 2 problems and I’m just wondering how to go about fixing them. First, the shift nob will not budge. When the key of out of the ignition and when the key is it and the ignition is turned to engage the battery (the engine is off though, still won’t start) Secondly, no gas will leave the fuel tank. I don’t know if it’s a fuel pump issue or a plugged line leaving the tank but even when i disconnected the fuel pump from the main gas line and just had it connected to the tank and engaged the ignition to see if it would pump it wouldn’t. Is this most likely a fuel pump, wiring, or a clogged line/tank issue? Thanks

 

[YakkoWarner]

I had a 1977 in the mid 1990's - if it has an original fuel pump it may just be stuck from non-use. The fuel pump electrical connection is in the trunk, I'd check for power there 1st. If you have power but don't hear it running (it will be more of a rapid ticking sound rather than the whirring sound heard on modern cars), try giving it a couple light taps with a block of wood or a leather/plastic mallet (LIGHT taps!). It may also be gummed up with varnish and old fuel - replacement may become necessary if its too far gone. Original ones have contact breakers similar to ignition points internally, replacements often have solid-state triggering.