my daugter runs a 1989 metro which has done 51000 miles. the engine seems to run on after being turned off, I assume it must be carbonised up. Does any body out there recommend a decent addictive or cleaner. Also the suspension needs pumping up , do I have to take it to a main dealer for this, or is there another way of doing this. thanks.
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Firstly, check that all the service items are ok, oil, air cleaner, plugs, timing. Then examine the carburetter. If it has carbon deposits, get some carb cleaner and apply that. Redex in the fuel tank may help but it's not as good as the advertising. The A-series engine is a 1940's design and 50,000 miles used to be regarded as a good time for a complete rebuild.
The suspension requires a special pump but non-franchised garages or specialists may have one, as well as franchised dealers.
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The A series is as tough as old boots, it'll stagger on for ages yet. Most engines 40 years ago needed work after 50k miles but modern fuels and oils mean even ancient designs in classics go on and on if looked after properly. So don't worry about the A+ in your metro. Change the oil and filter at least every 5k miles and the likelihood is the engine will outlast the body.
If it isn't the anti run-on doobry or the timing (the most likely suspects), and it has been used on short trips, then try an italian tune-up and get rid of the rubbish that builds up. An elderly neighbour of mine used to run a MK1 Granada 3 litre exclusively for the short trip to the shops. Every few months he'd complain about poor performance and I'd borrow it, give it a good thrashing on a dual carriageway (accompanied by large puffs of smoke) and it would then run as sweet as a nut for the next few months. He was always amazed by how well it ran when I gave it back to him, but I'd never tell him the truth about what I did as he'd have had a fit. He thought that gentle and short was best (bit like my sex life, but that's another story).
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A.P. There is an anti run on valve that stops the engine doing this it is on page 4.13 in the Haynes manual, if you dont have a Haynes it is cylindrical with two diameters and a pipe connected to it in the engine compartment,just above the drivers knees HTH tonyh
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90% of running-on problems on Metro are due to excessive idle speed, and / or induction air leaks contributing to excessive idle speed. So, pay particular attention to ignition timing and carb settings to get idle as low as possible - aim for 750rpm with headlights and HRW switched on. Check that distributor vacuum advance diaphragm is working - it is a "direct vacuum" supply from carb so works at idle, and diaphragm failure results in an air leak into the manifold. If you still experience running on then the anti-run-on valve mentioned elsewhere will be the only answer short of de-coking. As far as additives are concerned Forté Gas Treatment is your best bet, but only available from garages who use their products - call 024 7647 4069 to find your nearest stockist.
Regards, Adam
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