Petrol pump hand primer

[Viteran]

On trying to start my ‘37 Ruby I found the hand primer on the fuel pump extremely stiff.
I have taken the opportunity to dismantle it and replace the diaphragm but the primer handle is still extremely stiff even after soaking in diesel for a few days.
There appears to be no adjustment to the spindle, it looks as though it is pressed together.
Is there anything I can do to loosen it.?
If not I can live with it but advice would be appreciated.
Ian        


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[Rick F]

I always prime the pump by hand when starting my RP for the first time. On a couple of occasions it has started and stopped after a few moments and I have discovered the priming lever has stuck in the up position preventing the operating arm from being moved by the cam.

I now always ensure the lever is pushed down after priming. Fortunately it never seems to stick during normal running. In your case, as long as this never happens I guess you can live with it - it may free off after a few weeks driving.

[Bob Culver]

Lever arms often seem to be a source of oil leaks. A tight fitted one could be a blessing.

[John Mason]

My priming lever is also stiff and like Rick I was caught out by it being in the up position. This caused me about half an hour of head scratching before I realised what the problem was.

John Mason