Won't start!!!!!!

[vauxhallbitz]

My Viva has developed an annoying fault, it has been in storage over the Winter and only started occasionally.
The last few times it has taken more and more turns to get it to fire, sometimes in excess of 20 turns!
Once started it runs and revs fine.
Today however it refused to start, flattening two batteries and countless attempts.
I am getting a good spark (electronic ignition) and fuel to the carburettor, I also added an electric pump to make sure but no luck. The spark plugs are dry when removed so I am looking towards a problem with the carburettor which is a Stromberg. I have fitted a new diaphram and checked in the oil level. Is it possible that it could be a stuck needle valve?
Any help would be appreciated.

[1972nail]

It does sound like the valve is stuck. I would try a tap with screwdriver handle first before dismantling the carb.

[vauxhallbitz]

Thanks for that will give it a go, I don't really want to strip the carburettor!!

[Fred Dukes]

Sounds like the float chamber cut off valve is sticking/stuck.
Try some EasyStart sprayed into the the air intake see if it fires a couple of times to confirm.

[carmad]

make sure it doesn’t have any vacuum leaks

[Andrew Morris]

strangely ive had exactly the same problem today. Took nearly 2 batteries today too. Once running, yes no problem but took ages to start .Ive had my HC about 15 years now and have never done much with the carb.The dome or top cover of my carb reads Zenith but it looks very much like a stromberg?
Ive used the VVOC forum for lots of recommendations for most of my Viva mechanicals ,so any members suggest a good carb service company?
Thanks

[cooperman]

I'd recommend Alan at CarbCare, his details are in the "Suppliers Links" section on the forum

[Andrew Morris]

I'd recommend Alan at CarbCare, his details are in the "Suppliers Links" section on the forum

Great,thanks

[1972nail]

I had the same problem a couple of weeks ago. It appears that the petrol in the carb was very stale and the car just about fired up and ran very poorly for a few minutes until fresher petrol from the tank came through.

The petrol in the carbs smelt like cheap household paint thinners rather than petrol, the stuff in the tank did smell a bit better but still not a strong petrol smell. I still haven't got out to top up the tank with fresher stuff though.