Q-Recently, I replaced the diesel engine in my 1983 Cadillac Sedan DeVille with a gasoline-powered 350 cubic-inch-displacement rocket engine. Also, I installed a turbo 350 transmission. Since the installation, the engine has been difficult to start. This problem occurs after the engine reaches operating temperature, is turned off and restarted a few minutes later. I installed a new quadrajet carburetor and electronic ignition with no improvement. What’s up? G.S., Honea Path, S.C.
A-The problem may be caused by vapor lock, fuel foaming, high or low fuel Reid Vapor Pressure (the pressure that the fuel emits) or high gasoline alcohol content. This could make the engine hard to start when it’s hot. The heat of the engine causes the fuel to vaporize and foam in the fuel line, which leads to the carburetor. The next time your engine is hot, remove the top of the air cleaner and look into the carburetor throat. Slowly, pump the accelerator linkage. If a steady stream of gas shoots into the venturi, or main part of the carburetor,, the problem isn’t fuel-related. If very little or no fuel squirts into the carburetor, the fuel probably has vaporized. If so, spray cool water onto the fuel line. Cool water should condense and return the fuel to its liquid state to start the engine. Then purchase gasoline that doesn’t contain alcohol. Also, place a series of spring-loaded clip-type wooden clothes pins on the fuel line between the fuel pump and the carburetor. This often helps insulate and cool the line so the fuel won’t vaporize, boil and foam.
Q-When it’s cold outside, the 2.5-liter engine in my 1993 Dodge Spirit intermittently fails to start. The vehicle has been to the dealership four times for this. A technician replaced the AIS (which adjusts the amount of air flow into the fuel system) motor and adjusted the air/fuel mixture. Also, the dealership owner and a technician came to my house to start the vehicle. When they did, they pumped the accelerator to start the engine. I requested arbitration through the Chrysler arbitration board for repairs or replacement of the vehicle. A representative told me the trouble is on file and Chrysler is aware of it. What will happen in cold weather when the truck fails to start? S.M.O., Warren, Mich.
A-From your description, it appears you didn’t provide enough evidence to the arbitration board for them to make the decision you are seeking. Despite this, the air/fuel mixture in your truck is electronically controlled and can’t be adjusted. Also, the proper procedure for starting your engine doesn’t include pumping the gas pedal. That usually floods the engine. When the weather turns cold, return your vehicle to a dealership service department. Leave it for several days. When the engine is cold, it’s likely there is a problem with enrichment of the fuel mixture.
Q-My 1970 Dodge Dart with a slant-6 engine has served me well all these years. The problem is that the body is rusting and the engine is getting noisy. Is this engine available in today’s cars? What do you recommend? N.A.S., Derby, Conn.
A-You won’t find the a 225 CID slant-6 in any late-model Chryslers. You said you are retired and looking for an inexpensive car. Consider the Nissan Sentra, Dodge Colt, Plymouth/Dodge Neon, Ford Aspire and Toyota Tercel. All of these come with a 4-cylinder engine, good reliability and fuel economy that often exceeds 25 miles per gallon around town.
Q-The red paint on my 1988 Ford three-quarter ton truck is peeling like the skin on an orange. I called the hot line number in my manual, but I was told not to bother them with this problem. A person at my local Ford dealership body shop told me there is a problem with the paint not adhering to the primer. He said the truck should be repainted and I should qualify for assistance from the manufacturer. Do I have any recourse? A.V.D., Sandy, Utah
A-I doubt that your truck qualifies for a complete paint job from the manufacturer because of its age. But speak with the dealership person about assistance from the carmaker.
Q-My 1988 Mitsubishi Gallant has an electronically controlled suspension system. I want to install new struts, but I don’t want to buy the electronic struts. Is it possible to install a conventional suspension? Would the change affect the ABS and handling of the car? M.C.E., Pamona, Calif.
A-Though it shouldn’t affect the ABS, it will hurt the handling of the car, so I advise against modification. Besides, sources at Mitsubishi and aftermarket suppliers say they don’t have a conversion kit.
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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.
