Q-In 1985, the engine in my 1979 Ford LTD had a stalling problem. I took the car to a Ford dealership where a mechanic diagnosed and repaired the trouble in 15 minutes. At that time, I was told that a pollution device caused the stalling. The car is stalling, again. This time a mechanic at the same Ford dealership doesn’t know what’s causing the stalling without examining the car. I told him what happened the last time, but he didn’t know what I was talking about. Do you know what was replaced in 1985? A.H.Q., West Chicago
A-Because you mentioned a pollution device that took 15 minutes to replace, I would guess it was a vacuum line or the EGR (exhaust gas recirculation) valve. Replacing one of those might fix the trouble, but no one will know for sure what’s wrong with your engine until it’s examined. If the EGR valve is causing the engine to stall, an experienced mechanic can replace the part in about half an hour.
Q-Recently, I paid $400 to replace the parking brake cables on my 1984 Pontiac 6000 STE. The owner’s manual states that when parking the car, the transmission should be placed in park and the parking brake should be applied. Nowhere in the manual does it state that the rear brake adjustment or brake function depends on using the parking brake. I feel that Pontiac should clearly state the need to use the parking brake. Because they don’t, I think they are responsible for at least some of the repair costs. What do you think? J.S.M., Munster
A-To help prevent the parking cables from binding, the parking brake should be used. Also, the system should be lubricated to help prevent corrosion. This can be done during oil change services and when the rear brakes are inspected, cleaned and adjusted. My reference manual says the parking brake should be adjusted and lubricated every 7,500 miles. Also, the brake cables should be lubricated. Pontiac is not responsible for problems due to conditions beyond their control.
Q-The engine in my 1978 Dodge Aspen refuses to start on damp mornings. The engine cranks fine, but won’t turn over. I inspected the distributor cap and found it to be bone dry. Three years ago the ignition coil was replaced so I don’t think there is a problem with that. Why won’t the engine start? R.W., Deerfield
A-A failing ignition coil might be the trouble. Also, the coil wire might have too much resistance or poor insulation. The next time the engine won’t start, look under the hood while someone cranks the engine. You might see sparks arcing to ground from the ignition coil, coil wire or the spark plug wires. Be careful not to touch the wires. If you don’t see or hear any sparks, you may re-create moist conditions by spraying the ignition wires with a water mist from a squirt bottle. If you see sparks, replace the arcing wires. If you don’t have the skill to do this, allow a qualified technician to diagnose the problem.
Q-When I purchased a new 1986 Mercury Sable, I had the car rustproofed. Last July I noticed rust in the door seams. I took the car to the dealership that applied the rustproofing for an inspection. I was told they no longer deal with the rustproofing company. They suggested that I call the company directly. I did and received forms to claim rust repairs. The company requested that I have the car inspected at another garage. I did, but my claim to repair the rust was denied. I called a consumer representative at the rustproofing company about this, but was told they don’t cover surface rust under their policy. What is surface rust? Do you have any suggestions? S.B., Villa Park
A-Surface rust occurs when the outer metal surface rusts. Usually surface rust creeps under the paint. This causes the paint to blister, crack and fall off. Most rustproofing companies cover rust damage that perforates the metal from the inside out. Policies I have read don’t cover rust such as you describe.
Q-In cold weather, the steering in my 1987 Buick Century gets so stiff I can hardly turn the wheel. If I allow the car to warm up for a couple of minutes, the steering is fine. What’s wrong? W.C., Johnstown, Pa.
A-I knew a question such as yours would be in my mailbox when cold weather arrived. The problem is caused by fluid pressure leaks inside the steering rack. The steering rack may need replacement. Some mechanics rebuild the units, but most replace the part with a remanufactured unit. The cost of repair often exceeds $500. If your car has less than 50,000 miles or is less than five years old, contact a local Buick dealership service department.
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Phil Arendt is an automotive technical consultant for the AAA-Chicago Motor Club. Readers may send technical questions about cars and trucks to him at Dr. Gizmo, A+Automotive Career Counselors Inc., P.O. Box 548, Cary, Ill. 60013 or to his America Online mailbox DRGIZMO.
