General information
The fuel system consists of a fuel tank mounted under the rear of the car, a mechanical fuel pump, and a single or twin downdraught carburettor.

On manual transmission and early automatic transmission models, the fuel pump is operated by an eccentric on the camshaft, and is mounted on the rear of the cylinder head. On automatic transmission models manufactured from November 1986, an electric fuel pump submerged in the fuel tank is fitted instead of the previous mechanical type. The two relays which supply the pump are located on the side of the heater. One relay incorporates a safety feature, in that its primary windings are short-circuited to earth via the engine oil pressure switch. When the engine is stationary, this relay will not operate the fuel pump, but as soon as the engine is running it will supply current to the pump. The other relay operates in conjunction with the starter motor to operate the fuel pump for starting.

A number of different Solex and Weber carburettors may be encountered and their type and engine applications are shown in the Specifications. All carburettors are of the fixed jet downdraught type with either manual or automatic choke arrangements. XY8 engine models utilise a twin carburettor configuration.

The air cleaner contains a disposable paper filter element, and on certain models incorporates a flap valve air temperature control system; this allows cold air from the outside of the car, and warm air from the exhaust manifold, to enter the air cleaner in the correct proportions.

Precautions
Warning: Petrol is extremely flammable - great care must be taken when working on any part of the fuel system. Do not smoke or allow any naked flames or uncovered light bulbs near the work area. Note that gas powered domestic appliances with pilot flames, such as heaters, boilers and tumble dryers, also present a fire hazard - bear this in mind if you are working in an area where such appliances are present. Always keep a suitable fire extinguisher close to the work area and familiarise yourself with its operation before starting work. Wear eye protection when working on fuel systems and wash off any fuel spilt on bare skin immediately with soap and water. Note that fuel vapour is just as dangerous as liquid fuel; a vessel that has just been emptied of liquid fuel will still contain vapour and can be potentially explosive. Petrol is a highly dangerous and volatile liquid, and the precautions necessary when handling it cannot be overstressed.

Many of the operations described in this Chapter involve the disconnection of fuel lines, which may cause an amount of fuel spillage. Before commencing work, refer to the above Warning and the information in “Safety first” at the beginning of this manual.

When working with fuel system components, pay particular attention to cleanliness - dirt entering the fuel system may cause blockages which will lead to poor running.