jvs@iwu1d.UUCP (John V. Smith) (12/12/83)
I have an old 1965 Buick LeSabre which I have had for several years. This car usually runs like a champ and, for the most part, is very dependable, especially in the winter time. However, for about the last year or so, the car seems to have a problem starting whenever it rains. The engine just won't kick in. Some times I do manage to get it started in the rain, but it runs like a dog and it dies every time I stop for a light or whatever. So what's the car's problem and how can it be fixed (or can it) without costing a mint. All legitimate suggestions will be greatly appreciated. Thanks in advance John V. Smith
len10@ihuxw.UUCP (L. C. Dombrowski) (12/12/83)
Auto running problems in wet weather are almost always due to
electrical problems. The most likely items to check are your
distributor cap and your spark plug wires. The distributor cap
will sometimes acquire a hair line crack which allows moisture
to accumulate on the rotor and electrodes. You can usually see
the droplets on these surfaces when you pop off the cap. The
cure is to replace the cap.
Spark plug wires normally deteriorate with age and build up of
dirt and grim. Check them by idling the car at night with the
hood open and looking for electrical flashes around the wires
and plugs (good wires will show no flashes). If you see flashes,
replace the wires. Another fix is to carefully clean the wires
and then spray them with a product called Wire Dryer (available
at auto part stores). This stuff works well but usually lasts
only 4-6 months, but the spray can will last for many applications.
Len Dombrowskirctracy@uokvax.UUCP (12/19/83)
#R:iwu1d:-15700:uokvax:1100002:000:890 uokvax!rctracy Dec 16 23:59:00 1983 Trouble in wet weather (car washes fall in this category as well) tends to implicate the ignition system. You didn't mention the condition of plug wires, the distributor cap, etc., but checking the ignition system components should turn up something. I would expect to find carbon tracks inside the distributor cap and/or on the cap towers if the cap is bad. Plug wire boots and insulation should be checked for cracking as well. Moisture is the culprit here, and arcing due to the moisture will provide your answer. Hint: Try looking under the hood if the conditions of wet weather and darkness happen to coincide. (The show should be rather spectacular :-)). Bob Tracy Western Electric - OKC P.S. I posted this response without noticing similar advice in another note appearing after this one at our site. Sorry if the duplication of info offends anyone, but that's life.