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Question
I have a 72 Olds Cutlas and it really give off a strong gas fumes. The other day the break cable under the carriage caught fire, think God that’s all it was, but we never found out what set the cable on fire to start. Should I replace my gas lines? Where do I start?
Hi Lester:
There are most likely a couple of reason the brake cable caught fire. I suspect an overheated catalytic converter or muffler. The brake line tend to run too close to the hot elements. Check to make sure you don't have a clogged catalytic converter, which would overheat and glow red hot. Also the heavy gas smell in another indication that you could be dumping large amounts of unburned gas into the catalytic converter. This mean you may have a foul plug or a plug that is not firing (bad wire) or carb out of adjustment (Possible stuck automatic choke). So, to really get to the heart of the fire, trace backward.
1. Start with the plugs, plug wires and carb.
2. Next check the converter and muffler and heat under the car.
3. Check the gas lines and the fuel pump for wear and explosure.
If your gas or brake lines are old and worn due too excess heat explosure, then by all means replace them and even shield them from heat sources. Many older cars may still have outstanding recalls for this that may have never been fixed. Hope this helps.
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Answers by Expert:
Vern Bullock
Expertise
Visit my website at: http://www.classytransportation.com/ I can answer most questions about autos built in the 60's 70's and 80's. Specifically, Lincolns, Rolls Royces and the Excaliburs. Mechanical issues and technical questions are my expertise. I also have a general knowledge of most older automobiles. Keep in mind, I can only provide answers if the questions are very specific and complete. Without details, I can only speculate and that's not good for solving your problem.
Experience
I have owned and maintained Silver Shadows for over 10 years now. I find most mechanics and even Rolls Royce mechanics have very little knowledge about these automobiles. I have researched these cars in quite a bit of detail and can pretty much tell you what is wrong, if you can describe the behavior in detail. I have saved quite a few RR owners a lot of money and aggravation due to improper diagnosis. I am the owner of Classy Transportation, LLC a luxury limousine service specializing in antique cars, classic cars, vintage cars and exotic cars.
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Classy Transportation, LLC Limousine Service.
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All around the Internet
Education/Credentials
I hold a BS degree in computer science and a MS degree in mechanical engineering.
Awards and Honors
I regularly compete at car shows and average around a dozen awards annually.
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See Web site at: http://www.classytransportation.com/
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