[net.auto] Mazda RX-7's & fires

dhk@hp-pcd.UUCP (Dustin Kassman) (12/14/83)

#N:hp-pcd:2400024:000:498
hp-pcd!dhk    Dec 13 11:58:00 1983

Mazda Rx-7's & fires

In the last six months I have heard of two Mazda Rx-7's that have
caught fire after being involved in an accident (mine included).
I was wondering if this is a common problem or if anybody else has
heard of or experience with RX-7's catching fire.  The car was a great
one and I have no complaints about it at all but if they have a
tendency to burn on impact I may think twice about getting another.
Hopefully the incidents I know of are flukes.

Thanks,
hp-pcd!dhk
  
	 
  

seifert@ihuxl.UUCP (D.A. Seifert) (12/15/83)

I don't know if RX-7s are more prone than others to catching fire,
but *any* (non-electric) car can, thus it is a good idea to carry
a fire extinguisher on-board. (even if you don't care about the
car, maybe your loved one is trapped inside and you would *really*
like to get that fire out ASAP)

A big monster in the trunk is better than nothing, but time counts,
and a small, lightweight unit mounted where the driver can get to it
easily is better.  If you don't care about the car, a dry chemical
unit has a low initial purchase price, and will work fine.  If you
do care about the car, get a 'Halon' type.  These cost more initially,
but are *reusable*. Dry chemical types can be used only once.
Dry chemical types do a real number on anything they come in contact
with. Halon types are safe, except for a small possibility of thermal
shock from the rapid cooling.  This is the type of extinguisher
system used to protect computer installations, video equipment, etc.
Dry chemicals *ruin* electronics, and aren't too kind on alloy
heads, etc.  Halon puts out *any* fire, including the dreaded
magnesium fire. (race car types take note)

	The units I have are called 'Sargom', from Pro-Tech Systems.
(287 N. Lindbergh, St Louis, Mo 63141 (314) 726-5191) They put
on a truly impressive demo for our car club, including putting
out magnesium.  The smallest size is great for cars, being
slightly smaller than a standard spray can.

I have no interest in this company other than as an enduser.

Snoopy
BMWCCA, Windy City Chapter
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|OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO|		Dave Seifert
|OOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOOO|		ihnp4!ihuxl!seifert
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