How do I check for fuel in the carbs

I have a '79 308 carb car which died on me on a busy expressway. I could hear my fuel pump going but what is the easiest way to check if my carbs were actually getting fuel? Do I need to take off the air box?

Scott

 

When I start my carb 308, I hear my pump buzzing and the sounds from my carbs as they fill up.
If in doubt, yes, take off the airbox and you can see if the brass floats are near the top. I push them down with a thin screwdriver and see them bounce up. If the floats are low and will not bounce up, then no fuel going to carbs. Check pump.
Do you have original pump?

 

There is a fuel return line going from the cyl #8 carb inlet fitting to the top of the RH fuel tank. If you disconnect that line, and turn on the fuel pump (engine not running) you could see if any fuel comes out (into a jar or some other reasonable container).

With that said, have you confirmed/denied spark during starter motor cranking (e.g., by using a timing light or simple wire contact spark tester)? I'd do that before doing anything with the fuel system.

 

Thanks guys..The fuel pump was replaced years ago and haven't confirmed confirmed the spark but will start there. Remind me where do I get a hot lead for the timing light again? I have a '79 308.

 

This is why a spark tester is more convenient . Is your '79 a US version or a euro version?

 

US

 

Just take off air filter cover with car off and work the throttle linkage to see if the acc pumps spray.

 

Can't recall how easy either of these would be to reach with the airbox in place, but the electrovalve for the airbox flap mechanism and the electrovalve for the air injection air diverter valve both have red wires in their connector that goes +12V with the key "on". Otherwise, run a long wire up to the positive battery terminal .

 

Most of the time, but also sometimes a leaking float.

Best from Germany
Martin