DeLorean Mailing List - 7/7/98

Tuesday, July 7 1998          Volume 03 : Number 386



       In this issue:

        DML: Delorean parts for sale.

        DML: Cincinatti Shirt Seller??

        DML: Trunk Struts

        Re: DML: Sports Car Market Magazine and DMC-News

        DML: Quarterly printed version of the DeLorean Mailing List?

        Re: DML: Cincinatti Shirt Seller??

        Re: DML: Quarterly printed version of the DeLorean Mailing List?

        DML: [admin] Welcome to the DeLorean Mailing List!

        DML: Attn. Matt Peak

        DML: FRAME COLOR

        Re: DML: Trip?

        DML: Diodes, cross-ref

        Re: DML: Quarterly printed version of the DeLorean Mailing List?

        DML: Re: Scuffed Stainless

        Re: DML: Suggested repairs/upgrades for a late 81 delorean

        DML: Re: Poor MPG / High Idle in Park / Jittery steering

        Re: DML: AC does not work

        Re: DML: Trunk Struts

        DML: Center AC Vent Install

        DML: DeLorean Christmas Cards (followup)

        DML: European DeLoreans?

        DML: Re: Center AC Vent Install

        Re: DML: Poor MPG / High Idle in Park / Jittery steering

        Re: DML: Center AC Vent Install

        DML: Re: FRAME COLOR

        Re: DML: Trunk Struts

        DML: Not Again!

        DML: Gray Leather Pull Straps For Sale

        Re: DML: Not Again!

        DML: RE: Not Again!

        Re: DML: Not Again!

        DML: [admin] Sporadic postings rest of the week

        RE: DML: Trunk Struts

        DML: Not Again

        DML: Lee's Mysterious Engine Failure

        Re: DML: Not Again!

        DML: DE LOREAN FOR SALE !!!
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Sun, 05 Jul 98 18:43:16 PDT

From: "Brandon S. Moody" <bsmoody(AT)kih.net>

Subject: DML: Delorean parts for sale.
Few items for sale listed at

www.geocities.com/motorcity/downs/7872
- -Brandon

bsmoody(AT)kih.net
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 05 Jul 1998 18:57:18 -0500

From: scottmueller(AT)zebra.net (Scott Mueller)

Subject: DML: Cincinatti Shirt Seller??
While I was at the Cincinatti Show, I purchased a POLO Type Shirt with

an embrodiers DeLorean and "Live the Dream" over the leftside.  I really

like the shirt but do not know the Gentlemans name or how to get in

touch with him.
Do any of the list members know the Gentleman.  Please let me know how

to get in touch with him.
Thanks
Scott Mueller

scottmueller(AT)zebra.net
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 5 Jul 1998 19:53:53 -0500

From: Duke <at88mph(AT)mobis.com>

Subject: DML: Trunk Struts
Does anyone know a cross reference number for the trunk area struts???  =

I've called around with the Mighty  Lift number and the Merit number but =

I can't find them anywhere.  AutoZone here carries the Mightly lifts but =

not that number.

Thanks in advance,

Duke
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 05 Jul 1998 21:40:53 -0700

From: Mostafa Sayed <phoenixl(AT)ix.netcom.com>

Subject: Re: DML: Sports Car Market Magazine and DMC-News
    Actually James, I'm not surprised to see that. I've never in my

whole internet experience seen a mailing list like this for any other

car. You and Knut Grismut have certainly done a fantastic job, and it

shows. I'd like to congratulate Knut for doing a great job maintaing the

list while James was gone.

    Looking at the results of the History Channel's poll on the greatest

car ever, DeLorean being the clear winner, I can see DeLorean getting

much more recognition in the future and it can only get better, and this

mailing list is helping alot.

    Later,
        Mostafa
http://members.tripod.com/~Phoenix007/index.html
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 01:00:45 EDT

From: MJC85(AT)aol.com

Subject: DML: Quarterly printed version of the DeLorean Mailing List?
hi
I'am a subscriber of this digest but don't always have the time to read it

all. Is there a way for me to get a paper copy every qtr?

mike
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 5 Jul 98 22:44:35 -0000

From: James Espey <espey(AT)dmcnews.com>

Subject: Re: DML: Cincinatti Shirt Seller??
On 7/5/98 11:56 PM, Scott Mueller shared these fine thoughts...
>While I was at the Cincinatti Show, I purchased a POLO Type Shirt with

>an embrodiers DeLorean and "Live the Dream" over the leftside.  I really

>like the shirt but do not know the Gentlemans name or how to get in

>touch with him.
I'm pretty sure that was Gary Masie, from New Jersey. I do not recall off 

the top of my head whether or not he is on the list, but I do believe he 

is in the DeLorean Owners Directory.
James
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 5 Jul 98 23:06:50 -0000

From: James Espey <espey(AT)dmcnews.com>

Subject: Re: DML: Quarterly printed version of the DeLorean Mailing List?
On 7/6/98 4:59 AM, MJC85(AT)aol.com shared these fine thoughts...
>I'am a subscriber of this digest but don't always have the time to read it

>all. Is there a way for me to get a paper copy every qtr?
This question has come up a few times before and I guess I'd like to know 

what others thoughts on this are. As of June 23, 1998 there were 333 

people subscribed to the live version of the list, and 688 to the digest.
Is there any interest in having a printed and bound copy of the digests 

sent to your home/office every quarter? Obviously there would have to be 

a fee involved as we are now talking about printing and postage. What 

about a CD-ROM instead of something printed?
On a similar subject - many people saw the printed version of the 'zine 

in Cincinnati and asked if it was something they could have mailed to 

them. I ran about 150 copies of the 'zine to give away in Cincinnati to 

folks that were unfamiliar with it could see what it was and hopefully 

persuade them to come online and join us. It was hard to explain to folks 

that it's normally only available online. Is there an interest in seeing 

the 'zine in a printed form and delivered to your home/office on a 

quarterly basis?
James Espey

Moderator, DeLorean Mailing List

http://www.dmcnews.com
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 5 Jul 98 23:11:09 -0000

From: James Espey <espey(AT)dmcnews.com>

Subject: DML: [admin] Welcome to the DeLorean Mailing List!
Welcome to the DeLorean Mailing List!
Please read this whole message and save it for future reference!
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If you ever want to remove yourself from the digest version of the

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If you ever need to get in contact with the owner of the list,

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 Here's the general information for the list you've subscribed to,

 in case you don't already have it:
[Last updated on: Tue Apr 14 14:32:20 EST 1998]
Hello and welcome to the mailing list.  I am James Espey

<moderator(AT)dmcnews.com>, and I maintain the DeLorean Mailing List.

The list currently has about 1000 subscribers.
This list is not affiliated in any way with any club or parts/service

facility.
Postings to the DELOREAN MAILING LIST are the opinions of the author and

not necessarily those of the list moderator (James Espey) or his Internet

Service Provider(s). The list moderator makes every effort to screen out

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of the DELOREAN MAILING LIST, to realize that nothing should be taken as

actual fact without research and investigation of your own.
Please read this entire introduction and then save it so that you

may refer to it in the future if you need.
This list is a moderated discussion of the DeLorean automobile,

company and man. 
There is an archive of the messages to this list available on 

the World Wide Web at the URL:
   http://www.dmcnews.com
I send this generic introduction out to everyone who requests to

be on the list as sort of a greeting.  Feel free to start a topic

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your old DeLorean, discuss a repair you just made or would like to

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James Espey

Moderator, DeLorean Mailing List

http://www.dmcnews.com/
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 01:27:49 -0500 (CDT)

From: dlwrence(AT)ix.netcom.com

Subject: DML: Attn. Matt Peak
James-my apologies for using the list for this.
Matt, would you please email me at dlwrence(AT)ix.netcom.com.  I am not sure 

if 

you are still at your UCLA email address.  Thanks.
Mike Lawrence
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 08:18:28 -0500 

From: Gowler Don-CFPO01 <cfpo01(AT)email.mot.com>

Subject: DML: FRAME COLOR
Have a club member interested in entering a Concours but he tells me his

frame, and oil pan are black.  He bought it new from a dealer in

Chicago.  Is this something the dealers did as a factory approved

option?
Regards,   The Silver Fox
------------------------------
Date: Sun, 05 Jul 1998 12:17:01 -0700

From: "lseiler(AT)radiance.com" <lseiler(AT)radiance.com>

Subject: Re: DML: Trip?
At 08:09 AM 7/5/98 +0000, you wrote:

>Hi,

>

>Anyone going to the "Monterey Historic"?

>

>Chris

>

Reply:
"Monterey Historic" What is that? We live just north about 100 miles....I

have been thinking about taking a drive that way just as a nice Sunday 

ride.

Lee

81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 11:39:17 +0000 (UTC)

From: Jim Lill <jpl(AT)vectorbd.com>

Subject: DML: Diodes, cross-ref
There's little magic about diodes in cars as they're all just simple

rectifier types. A 3A can replace anything smaller as phyical size

permits. Stuff you're likely to find at Radio Shack etc. are:
1 Amp = 1N4001 thru 1N4007 (all will work)

3 Amp = MR751 and "larger"

- -Jim
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 06:34:06 -0500

From: scottmueller(AT)zebra.net (Scott Mueller)

Subject: Re: DML: Quarterly printed version of the DeLorean Mailing List?
James Espey wrote:
SNIP
 Is there an interest in seeing

> the 'zine in a printed form and delivered to your home/office on a

> quarterly basis?

> 

> James Espey

> Moderator, DeLorean Mailing List

> http://www.dmcnews.com

James
Myself, I am happy with getting the 'zine via the net.  I think that one

of the reasons the list and 'zine are so popular is the cost, zero.  I

store the digests on my PC, but that is not really required since the

search engine works so well.  Now, I would not object to paying a

nominal fee, say $10/year for access to the search engine to help defray

the costs of the server.  Keep the list and 'zine free, but charge for

access to the search feature.
Just my two cents worth.
Scott Mueller
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 09:26:58 -0400

From: Mike Substelny <SUBSTEM(AT)cesmtp.ccf.org>

Subject: DML: Re: Scuffed Stainless
The book "Stainless Steel Illusion" says that DMC abandoned its plan to

have the stainless steel brushed by machine.  Instead every piece of

every car was brushed BY HAND.
The reason for this was exactly the topic discussed on the DML: it is too

difficult to match the brush pattern of a machine when rubbung out

scratches.  If an owner or shop needed a special machine to match the

brush pattern it would have defeated the purpose of the brushed

stainless skin of John Z. DeLorean's "ethical sports car."
I believe that careful brushing by hand can exactly match the brush

pattern on any surface of any DeLorean.  If you are afraid of getting the

wrong type of scotchbright pad, then order your pad from one of the

major DeLorean parts suppliers.  I ordered mine from DMC Houston for

exactly that reason.  They aren't very expensive, and they last a very

long time.
NOTE: If you find yourself rubbing out your stainless with a Scotchbright

more than once or twice a year then you are probably doing something

wrong!  The only time to use this technique is when you actually have a

scratch or scuff to remove.
NOTE: After rubbing out a scratch, the area around it will appear to be a

different color than the rest of your car.  YOU SHOULD RESIST THE

TEMPTATION TO RUB OUT THE WHOLE CAR TO GET IT TO MATCH.  Just

let it sit for a few days and the discolored area will fade to match the

rest of the car perfectly, as if by magic.
- - Mike Substelny
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 00:00:48 -0700

From: "lseiler(AT)radiance.com" <lseiler(AT)radiance.com>

Subject: Re: DML: Suggested repairs/upgrades for a late 81 delorean
At 02:10 PM 7/5/98 PDT, you wrote:

>The Delorean is not mine but the guy who owns it asked me to find out 

>what needs to be done. The car is a late 81(No gas flap, but it has the 

>grooves) 5sp, I dont think anything has been done to it. What are the 

>upgrades/replacements needed on this car. It would help if it was just a 

>list so i could search the back issues for the steps.

>The clutch slipped once and the battery dies every 2-3 days

>

reply:
Hello  Paris,
I also have a late 81' that fits your description. This reply may seam to

be unhelpful, but believe me it is!
There are no standard upgrades that can ensure a perfect running DMC. I

spent a year going through mine. There are still small details I need to

attend to, but many of the problems I found were unique, while others were

very common.
There are some most often found problems, that most DMC's need fixing and

there are many more that should be fixed.
You can find almost if not all the upgrades your friend might encounter in

the DML back issues and the pages of the DeLorean World magazine.
I do have one suggestion.....have an active owner or DMC repair shop go

through your friends car, This is the best way I know of to get an Idea of

what would be required to get the DMC up to speck'
If your friend is any where near San Francisco I would be happy to drop by

and do the Inspection for your friend. I have all the tools and manuals

required, and would be happy to be available.
Lee

81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 09:06:41 -0400

From: Mike Substelny <SUBSTEM(AT)cesmtp.ccf.org>

Subject: DML: Re: Poor MPG / High Idle in Park / Jittery steering
Dave Price complaind of these three problems with his DeLorean: fuel

economy about 15 MPG, high idle (different in park vs neutral), and

"jittery" steering above 60 MPH.  Joe at DeLorean Services had some

excellent advice for him, but here are my two cents anyway.
15 MPG is terrible for a DeLorean!  This may seem unbelievably obvious,

but have you considered a fuel leak as a possible source of your bad

gas mileage?  Do you smell a lot of gas fumes in & around the luggage

compartment, or beneath the car?  Is there any sign of fuel leakage,

especially right after filling the fuel tank?
Since you just acquired this car it is possible that the previous owner 

did

some impromptu repairs before selling, perhaps to the fuel level sending

unit or the fuel pump itself, and didn't put it back together correctly.  

You

should inspect the top of your fuel tank (under the spare tire) 

immediately

after filling up.  This is a good idea for anyone who has just acquired a

DeLorean, even one that gets good mileage.  Also check for leaks in the

fuel lines running the length of the car.
Is your different idle speed really related to the P vs N position of your

transmission lever?  That is bizzarre.  Maybe I'm wrong, but I don't think

that the engine control system is supposed to differentiate between park

and neutral.  Perhaps you can find another correlation, like engine

temperature?
Finally, the jittery steering really points to a worn out steering rack.  

Even

if Joe's hunch is right, driving with a problem in your tires and / or

alignment for a period of time can really beat up your steering rack in a

hurry.  It sure did mine!  Even if your rack isn't worn out now it 

probably

will be soon.  I would have someone inspect that rack immediately,

before you cause an accident.
- - Mike Substelny
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 10:16:10 -0400

From: Mike Griese <magriese(AT)us.ibm.com>

Subject: Re: DML: AC does not work
>     The A/C does not work (may need recharged) but the vent fan operates

> fine in all four speeds.The fan will not work in defrost or any other

> position.After running the engine then shutting down,I can hear the

> vacumm motors open and close when I move the switch.The unit does not

> appear to be leaking,is there something eles to check with the inside

> fan?

>

>      Thanks

>        Richard J.Myosky #4419

Richard - You probably need a new mode switch.  The mode switch

performs two functions - it controls the ventilation vacuum system and

when the fan is on.  Most times the vacuum portion of the switch

fails because of a lack of lubricant allowing a vacuum leak.  I have

also seen switches that "carbon up" in the electrical portion of the

switch preventing the fan from working in certain settings.  The

switch can be rebuilt it you're handy with tools.  The hardest part

is getting the switch out of the console.
Michael A. Griese

IBM Storage Systems Division

Rochester, MN  55901

Internet: magriese(AT)us.ibm.com

voice:     (507)253-1853

fax:        (507)253-2880
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 11:47:58 -0700

From: steve brodsky <a0017673(AT)mail.airmail.net>

Subject: Re: DML: Trunk Struts
Duke wrote:

> 

> Does anyone know a cross reference number for the trunk area struts???  =

> I've called around with the Mighty  Lift number and the Merit number but =

> I can't find them anywhere.  AutoZone here carries the Mightly lifts but =

> not that number.

> 

> Thanks in advance,

> 

> Duke

There does not appear to be any exact replacements other than the ones

DMC Houston carries
Steve Brodsky #10688
------------------------------
Date: 6 Jul 1998 08:41:13 -0500

From: Dave.Sontos(AT)cooperauto.com

Subject: DML: Center AC Vent Install
Don't EVER remove your center AC vent. Thats the one in the middle 

console with the louvers. As soon as you pull it out of the console the 

two rubber hoses connecting it to the AC unit collapse and are nearly 

impossible to re-connect.
Ok, you did already, well here's how I got mine back in:
You will make shims to place inside the hose that will force open the 

hose as you push the vent unit back into the console.
Take tin snips and some standard aluminum flashing material, usually 

comes in a 7" wide roll from your local hardware store, and cut four 

pieces 3-3/8" wide and two pieces 2" wide.
Check and make sure the hoses are attached to the interior AC unit. Next, 

slide the 3-3/8" wide strips through the dash opening into the hose ends 

on the top and bottom of the hose. Next, slide a 2" wide strip inside the 

hose on the outside edge of each hose. You should now have three strips 

in each hose, top, bottom, and (1)outside edges.
Place the vent unit into position in the console and fan the strips to 

the outside of the vent unit and gently press the unit into the hole till 

it is about 1/2" to 1" from completely seating in the console. The ends 

of the aluminum strips should be sticking out the sides around the vent.
Now looking through the louvers find the inside vertical edge of the one 

rubber hose. Using a long skinny screwdriver or heavy wire gently push 

the inside edge of the hose out and at the same time applying gentle 

pressure against the face of the vent unit. Do one hose at a time. If you 

see the hose begining to buckle ease back on the pressure till you get 

the hose around the vent unit.
Continue pushing the vent unit into the console till about 1/4" from 

seating. Check through the vent and make sure that the hose is not 

buckled inside the vent. Now while holding the vent gently pull the 

aluminum strips out. They should slide right out. Do NOT let the vent 

move out here or you will have to start over. After removing all of the 

strips gently press the vent unit into place in the console. Pre ss the 

vent unit into place in the console.
It took me three days to figure this one out after spending many hours 

poking wires through the vent hole trying to line up the hoses. If you 

start getting frustrated, stop and walk away. It will be there tomorrow.
Dave

VIN 2573
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 98 10:11:42 -0000

From: James Espey <espey(AT)dmcnews.com>

Subject: DML: DeLorean Christmas Cards (followup)
Many people have asked about the DeLorean Christmas Cards I mentioned 

last week. Once again, you can see the Christmas card design at:
http://www.dmcnews.com/card.html
The inside text says:
"Best Wishes For A Classic Holiday Season"
Once again, a set of 20 cards and 20 envelopes are $20, which includes 

shipping in the US. Shipping anywhere else in the world is a flat $3, for 

a total of $23.00 in US funds.
There are a limited number of card sets available, and depending on the 

response, there may be a new design each year. Orders may be sent to:
DMC-News

P.O. Box 4833

Mesa, AZ 85211-4833
602/464-1085

602/464-5352 Fax
Thanks!
James Espey

Moderator, DeLorean Mailing List

http://www.dmcnews.com
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 12:20:51 -0600

From: "Gremlin" <gremlin(AT)gremlin.net>

Subject: DML: European DeLoreans?
Does anyone happen to know whether the European DeLoreans were =

'backward' from the American versions, with the steering whell on the =

starboard side?  I've always assumed so, but I've never actually heard =

either way.
- --Gremlin

gremlin(AT)gremlin.net

http://gremlin.net
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 13:05:10 -0500

From: "Jameel Ahed" <ahed(AT)uiuc.edu>

Subject: DML: Re: Center AC Vent Install
Dear DML,

    I smiled when I read this, cuz I thought it was near impossible too!  

I

tried all of that shim stuff and it was just way more complicated that it

was worth.  I found out a lot of things when I went to PJ Grady's shop a

month ago!  He taught me a lot of things.  That being one of them!  All 

you

do is get a heat gun!  Put the rubber boots on the center vent and heat up

the boots basically what this does is gets the shape back into the boots.

Once they are nicely shaped let them cool, then pull them off the vent 

then

stick them on the ducts in the car.  Then get a flash light ready and a 

slim

flat screw driver.  now put the vent in and be careful...  you will see 

that

the boots almost make it back on the vent exactly...  Just help it along 

by

using the screwdriver at the corners of the boots... You shouldn't have 

too

many problems...  I know it might get aggravating but if it does just 

leave

it for a while and get back..  Rob and I did mine in about 5 minutes... so

it isn't that bad at all...  Don't over heat the boots cuz you may melt

them...  Be careful heat guns get really really hot!!!  Hope this works 

for

you guys!

Sincerely,

Jameel
Jameel Ahed CEO of CyberTECH Industries

Consultant for VOITECH Computer Solutions

HOMEPAGE:  http://www.students.uiuc.edu/~ahed/

VOITECH:  http://www.voitech.com

EMAIL:  mailto:ahed(AT)uiuc.edu
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 08:43:00 -0400

From: Marc A Levy <malevy(AT)dnrc.bell-labs.com>

Subject: Re: DML: Poor MPG / High Idle in Park / Jittery steering
1.  The Lambda light is activated by a switch, and is not the same as

modern check engine lights.  If the light is on, it is a warning that a

emission service is due.  Does you car pass inspection?  If not, then it

may be time to replace the O2 sensor.
2.  Sounds high to me!  You can adjust the idle speed.
3.  Get your wheel's balanced!  Even at 120 my car does not shake at

all, and I have a cut and swap (chepo) lowering job.

Dave Price wrote:

> 

> Well, I pretty muched summed it up in the subject...

> 

> 1) I'm getting pretty low gas mileage (about 15 MPG) any ideas on where to

> look?  My lambda light is on, should I start with the sensor?

> 

> 2) When the car is in gear (automatic) I idle in the "normal" range (about

> 750 rpm) but when I put it in Park, I idle at about 1200 rpm.. this seems

> a

> little high, is it normal for park?

> 

> 3) When I am at speeds of about 60 MPH or higher the steering wheel is

> just

> jittering so much I can't hardly control the car.. It's pretty annoying

> trying to pass someone with the feeling that the car is falling apart...

> Is

> there something wrong, or do Deloreans just feel like a bucket of bolts at

> high speeds?  I believe my car was lowered by a previous owner, did they

> just use bunk springs?

> 

> Thanks for the help!

> 

> Dave
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 15:20:47 -0400

From: Marc A Levy <malevy(AT)dnrc.bell-labs.com>

Subject: Re: DML: Center AC Vent Install
MR. Rob Grady showed how to do this in Cincinnati!
Just pull the vent grates out with a small screwdriver in the side, you

can then easily get the boots back over the vents with tools or even

your hand if it is small enough!
Detail:
With a screwdriver, press the tabs in on both sides of the vent to

remove the air flow wheele.  After the wheels are out, put the

screwdriver in the hole to release the tab for the vent grate.  Be

careful, there is a small plastic cross on the other side that hold the

whole thing together (I am missing one, if you have a spare!).  With

both vent grates out, pop the frame back in the dashboard, and use a

screwdriver to get the boot back on.
When it is all set, snap the grates back in, and then snap the wheels

back in.  Took me about 5 min to do the whole thing... It is when I

noticed that the previous owner replaced one of those plastic crosses

with a piece of double stick tape!  no wonder it did not move!
Thanks to ROB GRADY for this information.

Dave.Sontos(AT)cooperauto.com wrote:

> 

> Don't EVER remove your center AC vent. Thats the one in the middle

> console with the louvers. As soon as you pull it out of the console the

> two rubber hoses connecting it to the AC unit collapse and are nearly

> impossible to re-connect.

> 

(SNIP)

> 

> Dave

> VIN 2573
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 16:35:40 -0500

From: "BRUCE BENSON" <delornut(AT)postoffice.worldnet.att.net>

Subject: DML: Re: FRAME COLOR
> Have a club member interested in entering a Concours but he tells me his

> frame, and oil pan are black.  He bought it new from a dealer in

> Chicago.  Is this something the dealers did as a factory approved

> option?

> 

> Regards,   The Silver Fox
Don,
The '83's and possibly some '82's had black undercoating sprayed on the

frames. It's my understanding it was done to prevent corrosion ( or

possibly cover it up ) because these cars sat around for months. I'm not

sure how the concours judges treat this but the were delivered new that

way.
Bruce Benson
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 19:21:05 -0400 (EDT)

From: DJS912(AT)webtv.net (Danny Smith)

Subject: Re: DML: Trunk Struts
Someone recently posted that he took off his louver struts and brought

them to a NAPA store. He said that they had exact matches. He also wrote

that  bringing the originals was the only way to find them. I know this

to be true. I looked in all those books with the struts in the auto

stores. Nothing. I ended up coughing up the dollars for a complete set.

Wonder if there are other strut matches out there.

Dan     vin # 7065
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 17:19:50 -0700

From: "lseiler(AT)radiance.com" <lseiler(AT)radiance.com>

Subject: DML: Not Again!
Hi All,
 Yep It happened again! I was on my way to get my post op surgeons

appointment out of the way. The drive is about 20 miles across a 4 mile

bridge. One mile on the bridge at speed (65mph) the engine just quit. Once

safely on the shoulder, every thing obvious checked out, Inertia switch 

not

tripped, all fuses OK, engine Temp, at the First mark, Engine turns over 

no

problem. Engine was running with no problem at all, purring like a kitten.

 Just Like the last time, My guess is that the Fuel pump is not running?

I was unable to do much scrambling around the "D" being on crutches. The

Calif. Highway Patrol came along and blocked the rear to prevent a rear

endear for me, He like the DMC and was very interested in my "D", called

the local Cal Trans towing and got me hauled off the Bridge. So The "D" is

back home in it's space waiting for some TLC.
 Any suggestions for sudden shut down at speed?
One Knee Lee'....Wink< sounds Chinese

Lee

81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 98 19:12:33 -0000

From: James Espey <espey(AT)dmcnews.com>

Subject: DML: Gray Leather Pull Straps For Sale
I have eight sets of gray leather pull straps for the later style cars 

(no ring, attachs directly to the door panel). I need to move these 

straps! $33 per pair includes shipping anywhere in the US. Send 

check/money order to:
DMC-News

P.O. Box 4833

Mesa, AZ 85211-4833
602/464-1085

602/464-5352 Fax
Thanks!

James Espey

Moderator, DeLorean Mailing List
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 21:48:58 -0500

From: Steve Brodsky <impact.auto(AT)airmail.net>

Subject: Re: DML: Not Again!
lseiler(AT)radiance.com wrote:

> 

> Hi All,

> 

>         Yep It happened again! I was on my way to get my post op surgeons

> appointment out of the way. The drive is about 20 miles across a 4 mile

> bridge. One mile on the bridge at speed (65mph) the engine just quit. Once

> safely on the shoulder, every thing obvious checked out, Inertia switch

> not

> tripped, all fuses OK, engine Temp, at the First mark, Engine turns over

> no

> problem. Engine was running with no problem at all, purring like a kitten.

(SNIP)

> 

>         Any suggestions for sudden shut down at speed?

> 

> One Knee Lee'....Wink< sounds Chinese

> 

> Lee

> 81DMC-12

same thing was happening to me! I check ALMOST everything. Stephen at

DMC found it - a wire at the ballast resistor had become so corroded

that it was only holding on by a few strands.
steve brodsky #10688
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 22:47:55 -0500

From: Duke <at88mph(AT)mobis.com>

Subject: DML: RE: Not Again!
Lee, 
This may be going way out on a limb, but check your main ground wire to 

make sure its not loose.

Hope this helps, 

Duke

- -----Original Message-----

From:	lseiler(AT)radiance.com [SMTP:lseiler(AT)radiance.com]

Sent:	Monday, July 06, 1998 7:20 PM

To:	dmcnews(AT)world.std.com

Subject:	DML: Not Again!
Hi All,
 Yep It happened again! I was on my way to get my post op surgeons

appointment out of the way. The drive is about 20 miles across a 4 mile

bridge. One mile on the bridge at speed (65mph) the engine just quit. Once

safely on the shoulder, every thing obvious checked out, Inertia switch 

not

tripped, all fuses OK, engine Temp, at the First mark, Engine turns over 

no

problem. Engine was running with no problem at all, purring like a kitten.

(SNIP)
 Any suggestions for sudden shut down at speed?
One Knee Lee'....Wink< sounds Chinese

Lee

81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 06 Jul 1998 23:41:03 -0400

From: Richard Strecker <dmc1219(AT)one.net>

Subject: Re: DML: Not Again!
Lee,
Your problem sounds VERY familiar..... Don't rule out the

Inertia Switch yet.  I had exactly the same symptoms & found

that a judicious kick placed in the area of the inertia

switch would cause the pump to start running again.  After I

got tired of the brute force tactic, I pulled the switch &

placed a jumper between the pins of the plug.  When I

removed the switch I could see some melted plastic between

the terminals.  I checked the switch with an Ohmmeter & even

though the plunger was down the switch was open.  Don't know

what caused the failure, could have been corroded contacts

or something else that caused an over current condition.  At

any rate I purchased a new switch while at the warehouse, it

is now installed & everything is OK!
Richard
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 98 20:50:03 -0000

From: James Espey <espey(AT)dmcnews.com>

Subject: DML: [admin] Sporadic postings rest of the week
I just today sold my home computer and have a few days yet to wait for my 

new Macintosh to arrive. In the meantime, I will be moderating the list 

from a friend's computer once a day. Things should be back to normal by 

the weekend. Thanks!
James Espey

Moderator, DeLorean Mailing List
------------------------------
Date: Mon, 6 Jul 1998 22:53:25 -0500

From: Duke <at88mph(AT)mobis.com>

Subject: RE: DML: Trunk Struts
Thanks for all the responses.  I later went down to my local AutoZone =

store to see if I could match it up and got lucky.   It matched up =

perfectly with a MightyLift strut # 95068.  It just snaps right on.  It =

has a small male stud connector on it like if you were to hook up a rear =

defrost wire but other than that, its seems the same.  (It works anyway) =

It also has a lifetime warranty.  (Not bad for $15.95)
Thanks again,
Duke

- -----Original Message-----

From:	Danny Smith [SMTP:DJS912(AT)webtv.net]

Sent:	Monday, July 06, 1998 6:21 PM

To:	dmcnews(AT)world.std.com

Subject:	Re: DML: Trunk Struts
Someone recently posted that he took off his louver struts and brought

them to a NAPA store. He said that they had exact matches. He also wrote

that  bringing the originals was the only way to find them. I know this

to be true. I looked in all those books with the struts in the auto

stores. Nothing. I ended up coughing up the dollars for a complete set.

Wonder if there are other strut matches out there.

Dan     vin # 7065
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 04:12:38 -0700

From: "lseiler(AT)radiance.com" <lseiler(AT)radiance.com>

Subject: DML: Not Again
I posted about My "D" just stopping with out apparent reason while 

cruising

down the Highway, (actually across a bridge).
Acting like the time before....no fuel.
I did note one thing that I have never noted before.
The AC compressor (left side of the engine mounted on top) was to hot to

touch. The AC was on and apparently working.
I haven't been able to run any checks yet but will later this week.
I might mention that many DML'ers offered help which was really what got 

me

up and running the last time this happened. My "D" has a new Fuel pump and

Tank Zilla, Door Zilla, all fuses appear to be OK, all electrical stuff

appear to work.
I recall from the last time there were some great tips like Jumper tricks

to test some parts, and the Like. I have a yet to be installed cold start

switch on the work bench. The last time this happened I put in a new

inertia switch and RPM switch last time.
Any more suggestions would be welcome.

Lee

81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 07 Jul 1998 10:17:48 -0400

From: Mike Substelny <SUBSTEM(AT)cesmtp.ccf.org>

Subject: DML: Lee's Mysterious Engine Failure
Lee,
Because you said that your "engine turns over, no problem" I assume

you mean that the engine cranks but does not start when you turn the

key.  That probably means your ground connection is okay.
Take off your air cleaner and have a helper crank the engine.  Any sign

of gas?  Will a shot of carburetor cleaner start your engine?
If the engine isn't getting gas, listen for the fuel pump to run when you

turn the key.  If your ears are not so keen (personally I rely my wife's

ears for such jobs) remove the cover below your spare tire and check to

be sure the fuel pump is getting power.  Either the fuel pump connection

or the inertia switch may cause the power to cut out.  If the fuel pump

*is* getting power then try adding a gallon of gas to the tank; you may

have simply developed a pinhole or other problem in your inlet line.
If the engine has been getting gas all along, then you probably have an

engine electrical problem.  A corroded ballast might be the culprit.
Just as a commiseration:

My wife and I were driving our DeLorean to a wedding last Saturday,

leading the way for two other couples, when our car spontaneously

died.  It cranked and cranked but wouldn't restart.  We were only one

block from home, and both couples immediately pitched in and helped us

push the DeLorean back to our place.  We were all wearing our best

suits and dresses, and I was very embarrassed.
Of course the moment we got it into our driveway the DeLorean started

right up and has been running perfectly ever since!
- - Mike Substelny
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 7 Jul 1998 14:07:23 EDT

From: NJP548(AT)aol.com

Subject: Re: DML: Not Again!
In a message dated 98-07-06 23:52:44 EDT, you write:
<< same thing was happening to me! I check ALMOST everything. Stephen at

 DMC found it - a wire at the ballast resistor had become so corroded

 that it was only holding on by a few strands.

  >>
I had the same problem with the resistor, but my car wouldn't start.  

This was

because the resister wasn't able to sent the current to the coil to spark 

the

plugs and all my car did was crank and crank.  it was really corroded 

that it

didn't make the connection.
Later,

Nick

VIN#1852
------------------------------
Date: Tue, 7 Jul 1998 22:51:13 +-200

From: bettycat(AT)t-online.de (Dirk Wacker)

Subject: DML: DE LOREAN FOR SALE !!!
1981 DeLorean available for sale.Vin 1130, 32.000 miles but new engine 

with 7.500 miles.

5speed, manual transmission

black interior, recovered, new headliners

more new parts than can be listed here (e.g. brakes, wheels) new service
The car is in switzerland but can be shipped to any place in the world !!!

Call 0041 52 376 3366 or eMail me
Christoph (St.Elmo(AT)gmx.net)
------------------------------
End of dmcnews-digest V3 #386

*****************************
 Postings to the DELOREAN MAILING LIST are the opinions of the author and

 not necessarily those of the list moderator (James Espey) or his

Internet

 Service Provider(s). The list moderator makes every effort to screen out

 false, misleading, and negative postings, but it is up to you, the

reader

 of the DELOREAN MAILING LIST, to realize that nothing should be taken as

 actual fact without research and investigation of your own.







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