dwc@hou2b.UUCP (D.CHEN) (06/16/85)
well, it finally happened. my 1980 volvo DL is crapping out on me (with 99,600 miles on it). last saturday, my car died in front of my driveway. after i pushed it into my parking space, i was able to start it again. having great confidence in my volvo, i went out again that night, and got stuck on an exit from the cross island expressway in long island. this time i needed a jump start to get me going. the dealer told me that my battery was bad and replaced it ($100). the next day, i died a block from my driveway on the way home. again, i needed a jump to get going. and i did that electrolyte test on my battery and it was completely dead. the dealer said that my alternator was bad ($300). the next day, my car died in front of the holland tunnel immediately after i turned the fan on. my battery was good but i couldn't get the darned thing started. i decided to fuddle around with the fuses and found that the fuse for the fuel pump was ALMOST burned out (warped). after i jiggled it a bit, the car started again and i got home safely. now i am totally afraid of my trusted volvo. the only thing i fear more is my volvo dealer. can anyone out there recommend a COMPETENT mechanic in the new york/new jersey area (preferably in manhattan so i won't die too far from home). i suspect that i have some short in the system (i have been thru two left headlights so far this year) so the mechanic should specialize in electrical diagnosis. thanks in advance, danny chen ihnp4!hou2b!dwc