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Friday, 26 July 1996 Volume 02 : Number 146
In this issue:
defrost switch
Re: Defrost switch
WTB (1) Front Goodyear NCT
Re: defrost switch
Automatic DeLoreans
Ear Def switch
Door Sills, vent boots, etc
Who needs defog? / Stainless exhaust?
RE: Automatic DeLoreans
Tires
Re: automatic DeLoreans
Re: Buying a DeLorean
Re: automatic DeLoreans
Insurance for DeLorean in NY/Connecticut area.
Re: Automatic DeLoreans
Fiero and JZD
Re: Insurance for DeLorean
Misc. ramblings.
Split a room in Nashville?
----------------------------------------------------------------------
From: David Olson, olsond(AT)dgabby.mfldclin.edu
Date: Wed, 24 Jul 1996 14:11:05 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: defrost switch
From: olsond Wed Jul 24, 1996 -- 12:48:01 PM
To: dmcnews-digest-approval(AT)facteur.std.com~(AT)
>The defrost switch in my DeLorean doesn't work - not a big deal here in
>AZ, but in preparation for the concours, I'd like to see if it's
>repairable or I should bite the bullet and replace it. I've never seen
>one that did work, so I'm not sure if maybe the problem isn't somewhere
>else - thoughts, comments anyone?
These switches fall into the category of "not available", however it is
possible to get them rebuilt. My understanding that this switch does have
some original problems. Stephen Wynne in Houston rebuilt my switch for
$35.00. Works perfect and up north in Wisconsin is needed.
------------------------------
From: SCiszek(AT)aol.com
Date: Wed, 24 Jul 1996 17:29:01 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Defrost switch
James,
I had the same problem with mine, totally non-functional. You can
send
it off to PJ Grady and he will rebuild it for you. Mine works just great
now,
not that I've ever had to use it.
-Scott Ciszek
------------------------------
From: James Espey, mikasa(AT)goodnet.com
Date: Wed, 24 Jul 1996 18:20:53 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: WTB (1) Front Goodyear NCT
Subject pretty much says it all - I need one front Goodyear NCT tire. My
other three are somewhat worn, so it doesn't matter. These tires will be
mounted on a set of wheels specifically for show only, and not driven on
more than a few miles at a time. Didn;t someone say that KAPAC had tires,
but wouldn't sell them?
James
------------------------------
From: AlphaWolf, awolf(AT)pacific.telebyte.net
Date: Wed, 24 Jul 1996 18:20:57 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: defrost switch
I'd wonder if your switch is at fault also.
I'm certain my switch works as my indicator light functions on my center
console. The defroster does not work, however, and I'm assuming I have
another
electrical fault to look into when I need to.
I've seen this same effect in several DeLoreans.
The rear window has never fogged up, so it's never been enough of a pain
to fix.
------------------------------
From: BHenderlong, bhenderlong(AT)wusf.usf.edu
Date: Wed, 24 Jul 1996 19:49:27 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Automatic DeLoreans
Hello, everyone!
I am a member of the DeLorean Owners Association but not yet the
owner of a DeLorean. As of next month, I will have saved $5000,
one-third the amount of money I expect to need for a DeLorean in
good condition. At my current rate of saving, I could have the rest
of the money by January. I haven't started seriously hunting for the
car yet; I figured I'd wait until I had all the money in the bank.
I've been reading this list for about five months, and from what I've
come to understand, the automatic version of the DeLorean is
somewhat of a hassle concerning reliability and/or bringing a used
car up to speed, as it were. Alas, I do not/cannot drive a
standard-shift car, and I don't have the extra time to take a driving
course right now (I currently work 50 hours/week), so it looks like
I'll be getting an automatic when the time finally comes around.
My questions are: Can one generally expect automatic DeLoreans to
last as long mechanically as standard-shift DeLoreans? Are they
more expensive or more difficult to maintain? And how do they
compare to standard-shift DeLoreans in terms of initial price?
One of my main concerns is that there don't appear to be any
DeLorean service facilities in (or even near) Florida. With detailed
instructions in hand and the purchase of a few tools, I could
probably perform routine maintenance/small repairs myself, but it's
still a concern.
How do you owners of automatic DeLoreans feel about your cars?
Do you service your cars yourselves? Is there anything I should
make a point of looking for when hunting for my automatic?
Thanks for any input you can offer. I hope to be joining the ranks of
honest-to-goodness DeLorean owners early next year!
Sincerely,
_____________________
Brian Henderlong
henderlong(AT)wusf.usf.edu
Concert 90 Public Radio
WUSF-FM 89.7 Tampa / St. Petersburg
WGCU-FM 90.1 Fort Myers / Naples
------------------------------
From: magriese(AT)VNET.IBM.COM
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 11:59:11 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Ear Def switch
The most persistent problem with the rear defrost switch (and the
window switches, for that matter) is carbon buildup on the contacts.
This can be cleaned up by disassembling the switches and polishing
the contacts.
Mike Griese
magriese(AT)vnet.ibm.com
------------------------------
From: magriese(AT)VNET.IBM.COM
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 11:59:15 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Door Sills, vent boots, etc
I'm looking for some new door sills, center vent boots, a drivers
side visor, a shift knob, a dash pad (black), rear window fascia,
and an engine cover center vent clip. If anybody knows of anyone
parting out a car, I'd like to hear about it.
Mike Griese
magriese(AT)vnet.ibm.com
------------------------------
From: Mike Substelny, SUBSTEM(AT)cesmtp.ccf.org
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 11:59:55 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Who needs defog? / Stainless exhaust?
REAR DEFOG:
Wolfie said:
>The rear window has never fogged up, so it's never been
>enough of a pain to fix.
David Olson said:
>Works perfect and up north in Wisconsin is needed.
In Cleveland we have extremes of heat and cold along with
plenty of rain and fog. I have needed/wanted a rear defroster
in every car I've owned EXCEPT the DeLorean. Mine works
but I never use it. That rear window just never fogs up at all.
STAINLESS:
Non-owners and other lurkers may not realize it, but the
SS304 in the DeLorean is non-magnetic. Yes, it really is
steel, but a magnet will not stick to it.
A few weeks ago I mentioned my DMC brochure that
promises a stainless steel exhaust system. You can see
where I'm going . . .
This morning, before driving it to work, I took a magnet to my
exhaust. The results: a magnet sticks to the muffles and
converter. A magnet DOES NOT stick to any of the pipes,
including the tail pipe. I believe my car has a totally original
exhaust.
- -Mike Substelny
------------------------------
From: Rob Hook, mail06754(AT)pop.net
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 12:00:12 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: RE: Automatic DeLoreans
Brian,
The main thing you need to watch out for when shopping for an automatic
DeLorean. The first is the governer. If it is bad, the car won't always
start in first gear. The performance of the automatic is bad enough but
starting in second gear makes it horrible. If you're concerned AT ALL
about performance, an automatic is not for you. I assume from your
inability to drive a manual (and the fact that your mail address is from
a university) that you are fairly young. The young (myself included)
tend to car alot more about performance than the old-timers do. One of
the worst things you could do is save up all that money and then get a
car you are disapointed in. Driving a manual is not that hard. You
would probably catch on in about three days of normal driving. The first
DeLorean I test drove was an automatic and after driving it, I decided I
probably didn't want a DeLorean at all. Luckily, I gave the 5-speed a
chance and am back to wanting a DeLorean. The automatic is, how should I
say it... OMNI slow; Geo Metro slow; Moped slow....Ok. Maybe I'm
exagerating a little.
As for price, at least 80-90% of all of the DeLoreans I've seen for sale
were in the 14,800-15,500 price range. They don't stray from that very
much (at least not around here).
Anyway, I'd try to learn how to drive a stick somehow. If you can work
out a way to do it, use someone else's clutch. Chances are, it'll get
plenty of wear as you learn.
- --Rob Hook
------------------------------
From: ausmith(AT)pdx.oneworld.com
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 12:28:47 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Tires
If anyone is interested, I have a set of Goodyear NCT's with 14K on
them. Slight sidewall checking and the usual rub marks on the inside
of the fronts. Never been curbed.
Make a good offer.
Chris
------------------------------
From: SUBSTEM(AT)cesmtp.ccf.org
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 14:52:32 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: automatic DeLoreans
I agree with Rob Hook. Learn to drive a five speed. All the
DeLorean automatic's I test drove had tranny problems. Of
course, it is possible to keep the auto-trans working well if
you a diligent, but the five speed is more fun, faster, and gets
better fuel economy.
If there is any justice, automatic DeLoreans should be
significantly cheaper than five speeds. If you find a really
great bargain on an automatic, then go for it.
You might take your $5,000 today and get yourself an old
VW Scirocco, Honda CRX, Toyota Supra, or Datsun 280Z.
You can pick up one of these with a stick shift for about
$2,000 and drive it for a few months, then sell it again next
spring when you are shopping for your DeLorean. Not only
will this get your confidence up, it will also be a lot of fun! A
decent old Supra or 280Z will give performance somewhat
similar to a stock DeLorean, which will help you in your
shopping. The CRX or 280Z will also get you accustomed to
life with a 2-seater. A Fiero is even more DeLorean like in its
trunk and passenger space, but not as much fun to drive.
The experience would be valuable. It would be easy to fall in
love with the first DeLorean you drive, even one that's not up
to snuff, if you have never driven a sports car before.
Good luck,
- -Mike Substelny
------------------------------
From: stormrider(AT)socketis.net
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 17:11:25 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Buying a DeLorean
>The experience would be valuable. It would be easy to fall in
>love with the first DeLorean you drive, even one that's not up
>to snuff, if you have never driven a sports car before.
Ha Ha! I've owned/driven plenty of sports cars since I was 16 years old
and
I still bought the first running DeLorean I found that I thought I could
afford. I was even crazy enough to pay for it and receive the title before
I had ever seen the car in person myself. But then I had owned two MG
Midgets previously and I also did have the help of a couple of DeLorean
owners taking a look at the car for me so I kinda knew want I was getting
myself into beforehand. (I know I've said it before a few times, but
THANKS
Dave Takeuchi and Knut Grimsrud for doing that for me).
If you really WANT a DeLorean (or any other car for that matter), then
you'll likely be blind to a hundred little imperfections on each car you
look at, so it is always good to get someone else's opinions. Some wise
advice, that I ought to pay more attention to myself. :)
~ Chase
------------------------------
From: Curtis C.Ballard, curtisb(AT)gr.hp.com
Date: Thu, 25 Jul 1996 18:02:19 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: automatic DeLoreans
> life with a 2-seater. A Fiero is even more DeLorean like in its
> trunk and passenger space, but not as much fun to drive.
As a owner of one and a frequent driver of the other, I would have to
disagree with this statement. The '88 Fiero at least is far more fun to
drive than the DeLorean, and while not much more powerful still very
obviously more powerful. Sure don't get as many neat looks though!
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Curtis C. Ballard (970)
350-4014
Hewlett Packard
curtisb(AT)gr.hp.com
Storage Systems Operation R&D Lab Greeley,
CO
------------------------------
From: perotti, perotti(AT)pi.net
Date: Fri, 26 Jul 1996 09:39:40 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Insurance for DeLorean in NY/Connecticut area.
My brother (living in Stamford/Connecticut) is purchasing an DeLorean for
me.
We found a great car in the NY area.
When the car is ready and in good shape, it will be shipped to The
Netherlands. In the
meanwhile the car must be insured ofcourse. The car will be driven also.
At the moment we find difficulties in getting the car insured for
differrent reasons
(too high risk, don't know the car, not in Connecticut, etc, etc.)
Can anyone advise me where to get the DeLorean insured in the
Connecticut/NY area?
(prefence ofcourse an collector's insurance).
And - if possible - what do you pay for the insurance/conditions (milage,
3 cars etc,
etc.).
I already heard that some DeLoreans are insured at HAGARTY and STATE
FARM. Does anyone
have telephone numbers or addresses for me?
Mario Perotti
The Netherlands
E-Mail: perotti(AT)pi.net
------------------------------
From: Don_Gowler-CFPO01(AT)email.mot.com
Date: Fri, 26 Jul 1996 10:21:32 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Automatic DeLoreans
I HAVE HAD ABSOLUTELY NO PROBLEMS WITH MY AUTOMATIC.
THE SILVER FOX
___________________________________________________________________________
____
Subject: Automatic DeLoreans
From: dmcnews-approval(AT)world.std.com(AT)INTERNET at #EMAIL
Date: 7/24/96 6:49 PM
Hello, everyone!
I am a member of the DeLorean Owners Association but not yet the
owner of a DeLorean. As of next month, I will have saved $5000,
[snip]
How do you owners of automatic DeLoreans feel about your cars?
Do you service your cars yourselves? Is there anything I should
make a point of looking for when hunting for my automatic?
Thanks for any input you can offer. I hope to be joining the ranks of
honest-to-goodness DeLorean owners early next year!
Sincerely,
_____________________
Brian Henderlong
henderlong(AT)wusf.usf.edu
Concert 90 Public Radio
WUSF-FM 89.7 Tampa / St. Petersburg
WGCU-FM 90.1 Fort Myers / Naples
------------------------------
From: Chase Clark, stormrider(AT)socketis.net
Date: Fri, 26 Jul 1996 12:18:00 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Fiero and JZD
Last month I was talking to a Fiero fanatic at an informal car show and he
said that JZD was credited as one of the leading men behind the Fiero
produced. I know he left GM long before the Fiero ever came out, but have
heard he had initially proposed the project. I guess after it proved to be
a flop, they wanted to lay blame on the former executive and gave him much
of the credit for the car.
~ Chase
------------------------------
From: Chase Clark, stormrider(AT)socketis.net
Date: Fri, 26 Jul 1996 12:23:04 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Re: Insurance for DeLorean
I tried to get my DeLorean insured with State Farm in Missouri and they
flat out refused to cover it. Eventually I got full coverage through AAA
of
Missouri with 1,000 deductibles at around $50 per month with the second
car
discount. Almost the same amount as my former '79 Porsche 924 with $500
deductibles.
If the car is going to be driven less than $2,000 miles a year, then I
would go with a speciality insurance company like Hagerty. Full coverage
with no deductible on a DeLorean was like $110 a year when I checked into
it last year.
Their phone number and address are:
Hagerty Classic Automobile Insurance
P.O. Box 87
Traverse City, Michigan 49685
1-800-922-4050
------------------------------
From: ausmith(AT)pdx.oneworld.com
Date: Fri, 26 Jul 1996 12:24:07 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Misc. ramblings.
Some comments have come up lately concerning the differences between
stick and auto and there are several.
My first DeLorean was an auto. I bought it about ten years ago and
sold it about three years later for more than I paid. During the time
I owned it I went through most of the maladys an auto can have. The
Governor Computer went out and I decided to find out why. I took it
apart and found that it had oxide on the contacts. These contacts
pass .5 volts and must be clean. Probably not the fault in all cases
but I'd bet in 90%. An auto is sluggish and does get poor mileage by
comparison but don't let that stop you if that's what you want. The
whole thing is the car, and I don't think there is another to compare.
My current D is a twin turbo five speed that I bought 18 months ago.
It has not been trouble free but most of it's problems are just small
annoyances. Both the doors are apart at the moment. The drivers side
because of the locks and the passenger because of the toll booth
windows' alignment. I hope to have these things fixed this week. No
hurry, do it right. It had a "ping" when the boost came on so I
designed a simple water injection system that is operated by the
pressure and that cured it.
Someone commented that performance probably doesn't matter to the
"older guys" on the list. I think I probably qualify, in years
anyway, and wish to assure you that you are completely wrong!
One last thing, I was at the "Monterey Historic" and people driving
antique sports cars of all kinds would wave on the street, and when I
was parked everyone wanted to swap car stories. I got to drive a
Bugatti because the owner and I got talking cars. Owning a DeLorean
gets you introduced into a select club.
I know, enough already.
Chris
------------------------------
From: mikasa(AT)goodnet.com
Date: Fri, 26 Jul 1996 12:30:50 -0400 (EDT)
Subject: Split a room in Nashville?
I just made reservations for a room Thursday, Friday and Saturday in
Nashville for the DOA expo at Opryland. I got a double double and if
someone wants to split the room with me, let me know.
James Espey
Non-snorer, non-smoker, non-sleepwalker
------------------------------
End of dmcnews-digest V2 #146
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