dmcnews-digest Saturday, December 13 1997 Volume 03 : Number 311
In this issue:
Re: DML: Why I don't drive in the winter
[none]
DML: test track.mov on PC = failure
DML: DeLorean Holiday Gifts
Re: DML: Fwd: DMC Christmas gifts
Re: DML: ~ DeLorean Auction Questions
DML: Re: Defrost Problems
DML: Another reason for winter garage: Insurance
DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
DML: Are we the most loyal car owners in the world?
DML: Another 'Why I don't drive in the winter'
DML: droopy doors
DML: DMC-Key Colors-Update
DML: My next project?
DML: RE-GASSING STRUTS
Re: DML: 140 MPH SPEEDO
DML: Holiday/Birthday Greeting cards...
DML: RE: Version 1.0 of DMC parts database uploaded
DML: Polished Wheels
DML: re: Ram Air scoops
Re: DML: droopy doors
DML: CarTalk reference to DeLorean owners
DML: HE SIGNED MY PICTURE
Re: DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
Re: DML: droopy doors
Re: DML: Another reason for winter garage: Insurance
DML: Nitrous
Re: DML: droopy doors
Re: DML: re: Ram Air scoops
DML: Ram-Air
Re: DML: RE-GASSING STRUTS
Re: DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
Re: DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
DML: New Accumulator Worked Miracles
[none]
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Date: Wed, 10 Dec 1997 15:38:54 -0600
From: Bill Marcussen <billmarcussen@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: Why I don't drive in the winter
Mike Substelny wrote:
> But the main reason I garage my car in the winter is to avoid
> accidents.
> Those icy roads cause a lot of fender-benders, and I don't want my
> DeLorean anywhere near them!
It is far better for a car to drive it occasionally than to lay it up
for long periods of time. With the DeLorean, deterioration of the fuel
system is a particular susceptibility during long periods of
inactivity. As a long time resident of the frozen north, I have always
found at least occasional days during winter when the weather and road
conditions are appropriate for driving a collector/classic car. It is
far better to drive a car once or twice a month until it is warmed up
than to lay it up for several months at a stretch.
Bill
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 15:34:18 -0500 (EST)
From: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [none]
Problems with the list over the past few days has been due to problems
with the mail server at my internet service provider (ISP). They hope to
have it straightened out within the next day or two. Thanks for your
patience.
Sender: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Precedence: list
Reply-To: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
James Espey
Moderator, DeLorean Mailing List
http://www.dmcnews.com/
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 10 Dec 1997 19:46:54 EST
From: TGraham999 <TGraham999@xxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: test track.mov on PC = failure
I've tried all of the popular video viewers for my PC (Adobe Premier,
SmartVid, etc.) These programs are supposed to read MOV files, but none
of
them can read this particular file...I've also tried direct MOV to AVI
converters, but they can't read track.mov either. Has any PC user been
able
to watch this movie? I'll keep trying to figure out a way to convert it,
but
don't have much free time in the near future.
Travis
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 10 Dec 1997 21:48:57 -0600
From: Marcie Haug <products@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: DeLorean Holiday Gifts
Check out the New DeLorean Poster on the DeLorean Owners Association web
site at:
http://www.delorean-owners.org/new/poster.html
This beautiful poster was created especially for the Association by
renowned automotive artist, Shin Yoshikawa. 100 of the limited edition
posters have been personally signed by the artist and are available for
$50.00 plus $5.00 S/H. Unsigned copies are available for $25.00 plus
$5.00 S/H.
Orders may be placed on-line on our Secure Server located at:
http://www.delorean-owners.org/market/index.html
Click on the Public Products and check out the Poster, DeLorean Gold
Portfolio, cool DeLorean shirts, a DeLorean collector plate, Back from
the Future video, and a neat Delorean Mouse Pad. Members may order
copies of Delorean World, and soon all other Association products by
clicking on the Member Products.
All shipments are made to US locations by USPS Priority Mail, so you can
still receive them for the holidays.
Marcie Haug, Products Director
DeLorean Owners Association
1617 Del Valle Avenue
Glendale, CA 91208
FAX/Phone: (818)547-3638
email: products@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 14:39:21 +0000 (GMT)
From: Martin Gutkowski <msg101@xxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: Fwd: DMC Christmas gifts
> Now that it has started to get really cold, treat yourself to a new set
> of Door Struts (that's #1 on my X-mas list)
>
> Michael Babb
>
If you mean the gas struts for lifting the door, I know of an owner who
spent less than $20 (equivalent) on simply getting them re-gassed - doors
work fine now.
Martin
------------------------------
Date: Wed, 10 Dec 1997 14:17:57 -0800
From: kseel@xxxxxxxxx
Subject: Re: DML: ~ DeLorean Auction Questions
started
up and its cold (the temp is below about 45 degrees). It smoothes out
shortly
thereafter and drives just fine. I don't know what causes this, but it
hasn't
been a problem.
Sender: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Precedence: list
Reply-To: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
______________________________ Reply Separator
_________________________________
>Subject: DML: ~ DeLorean Auction Questions
>Author: JAR RXR <JARRXR@xxxxxxx> at Internet
>Date: 12/8/97 10:49 PM
>
>
>Dear List members,
>
>I have recently been doing some DeLorean shopping in South Florida. I have
>found a 1981 DeLorean to be auctioned off, so I went to check it out.
>According to the Auctioneer, the DeLorean has been in storage for 15
>years and
>runs 100%. After some research I found out that the DeLorean had been out
>of
>storage for over a year. The Autioneer tried to start it up..but the
>engine
>wouldn't fire over...and after spraying gobbs of Starter fluid into the
>intake
>it finally got going but the motor keep trying to cut of..pulsing up and
>down...
>
>Does anyone know what may have caused this??
>Is this an easy problem to fix??
>
>The DeLorean was Auctioned off for $14,000.00
>Is this considered a fair price for it's motor trouble??
>
>Thanx,
> ~ JAR (((((((88 m.p.h.)))))))
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 15:30:27 -0500
From: Mike Griese <magriese@xxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Re: Defrost Problems
The hissing noise you hear is a vacuum leak in the
mode control switch. This is most likely the source of
your defroster problems. You can rebuild the switch
or you can replace it for around $60 - $65 last time
I checked. Rebuilding is a good option as long as the
switch doesn't have any burn marks on the electrical
portion of the mechanism. If it does, replace it as the
switch is probably heat distorted.
Getting the switch in and out is a bit of a chore because
you have to reach around the back side of the console
to get at the connectors. You might want to consider
removing the radio to give you better access.
Michael A. Griese
IBM Storage Systems Division
Rochester, MN 55901
Internet: magriese@xxxxxxxxxx
voice: (507)253-1853
fax: (507)253-2880
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 13:53:53 -0500
From: Mike Substelny <SUBSTEM@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Another reason for winter garage: Insurance
After I said I garage my car for the winter, Bill Marcussen said:
> It is far better for a car to drive it occasionally than to lay it up
> for long periods of time. With the DeLorean, deterioration of the
> fuel system is a particular susceptibility during long periods of
> inactivity . . .
I absolutely agree. I do start my DeLorean regularly during the winter.
I
warm it up to operating temperature and I drive it around in my driveway
(which is fairly long). I used to take it on the road occasionally, but
not
anymore.
This year I have a special deal with my insurance agent (my new
father-in-law) wherby I cut my insurance to fire & theft only in the
winter. This saves me several hundred dollars. The only penalty is that
I
can't take it on the road until spring.
Before making that decision I considered the prescious few minutes I
used to take my DeLorean on the road in previous winters. To me, a
couple of short drives on those dangerous winter roads are not worth
HUNDREDS of dollars in insurance premiums. The driveway is good
enough.
I believe this type of deal is hard to find. I had to marry into the
family to
get it.
- - Mike Substelny
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 16:03:33 -0800
From: "Murray Fisher" <murrayf@xxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
Can someone tell me where I can acquire a clear wiring
diagram for my 81 DeLorean. I have the copy from a single]
page in one of the manuals and also from the DeLorean World, but they
will not blow up so you can read the color code. Is something
better available?
I am installing a remote starter and need it for that purpose.
Murray Fisher Vin 05962
murrayf@xxxxxxx
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 17:41:19 -0500
From: Mike Substelny <SUBSTEM@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Are we the most loyal car owners in the world?
I am embarrassed to say that I completely missed the revelation of the
latest CarTalk owner survey results. Many thanks to Travis Graham for
pointing it out on his homepage. Everyone on the DML will be pleased to
see this graph:
http://cartalk.com/Survey/Results/Charts/Demographics/loyalty.html
Thanks to our responses, the DeLorean sample was much larger this
time, and they included our marque in the results.
When asked "How likely are you to buy the same make of car again?" the
DeLorean marque got the highest score of any car in the world! It blew
away Ferrari, Jaguar, Lamborghini, even Mercedes-Benz and Porsche
(both notorious for loyal owners). It wasn't even close. DeLorean
scored a 95% owner loyalty, which beat the runners-up (Infiniti, Volvo,
Studebaker, Lexus) by over 15%.
Can you believe it? The written comments about the DeLorean are also
very positive. I hope that Tom and Ray mention it on the radio. Thanks
to
all the DMLers who participated. You can still take the survey and count
in the statistics at:
http://cartalk.com/Info/newsurvey.html
I hope John Z. DeLorean sees that graph.
- - Mike Substelny
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 14:22:57 -0600
From: Don Gowler-CFPO01 <Don_Gowler-CFPO01@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Another 'Why I don't drive in the winter'
In the Chicago-Land area winter brings on the hazards of icy streets one
moment and salty streets the next. To avoid the driving errors of
others on the streets not so use to the ice (I'm Canadian), to avoid the
possibility of road salt creeping into any possible frame epoxy cracks
and silently eating away my investment, and finally to avoid the cost of
insurance to cover all those days the foregoing takes place I let my two
DeLoreans rest for our 5 winter months. And we all know they need to be
run, not necessarily driven, now and then during these down periods to
keep things lubricated.
Regards, The Silver Fox
------------------------------
Date: Thu, 11 Dec 1997 21:30:59 EST
From: TGraham999 <TGraham999@xxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: droopy doors
This is my first winter with a De Lorean. As soon as the cold temps came
in,
my doors started to droop down and now I am beginning to feel like Marty
McFly
bumping my head all of the time... Do the door pistons recover when the
weather heats up, or should I go ahead and buy new pistons? If I do get
new
pistons, will they droop too?
Thanks,
Travis
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 03:00:18 -0800
From: "lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx" <lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: DMC-Key Colors-Update
Hello All!
We have started shipping the DMC-12 Keys. Depending on your shipping
instructions Keys should start getting to list members around mid-next
week.
There are over 100 on the list, at the moment, so please don't get upset
if you don't get them right away. be sure that I will get to everyone. To
be sure that there is no confusion, each list member is contacted in order
and if that person sends in an order, the keys are made, then payment is
collected (Credit card or check deposited) and the keys are shipped. If I
don't get an order from the list member is placed at the end of the list
to
be contacted again when their name comes up.
I have had several contacts of people who wanted to be on the list but
have not yet received the Key-Info e-mail. That could be for two reasons,
one is their name has just not come up yet or, two Win95 does have it's
problems and their name may have gotten dropped. So again, if you haven't
gotten your Key-In for e-mail and you have left your name for the list, do
send your Key info request again.
Finally to Colors: The genuine DMC-12 Keys I have been sent as the models
to use have been matched in color to the point it's not possible to tell
the originals and the new versions. In the past few days several DMC
owners
have mentioned other colors like Brown.
As a practical matter the fewer colors I have to deal with the essayer my
Job is, on the other hand the Key tops can be any color desired. I am open
to doing new colors but I need a sample to match first and I need at least
a dozen orders (24 Keys) to break even on material cost.
If you (any one) have thoughts on the subject feel free to e-mail me or
post to the list. Remember the Key project is just that, for us to have
fun
with and to fill a very tiny void in the DMC world.
OK if you ordered and sent me the form and payment instructions by now you
should be getting your keys next week some time.
Lee
VIN#5729
Lic: 81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 03:16:02 -0800
From: "lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx" <lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: My next project?
James left me a nice plug and asked about my next project?
I have been thinking about the making a die to form "Ram AIR scoops" to
fit
on the intakes of the DMC.
If any one has some thoughts or the dimensions of the past efforts along
these lines feel free to share them.
I think I have a design that would allow the scoops to be free flowing and
be "snap-in" unit which would require no modification to the DMC and no
special tools to install. Just align and "SNAP" it in and functional.
The only questions I can see would be should they be smooth or matt,
textured like the mirrors and trim. Black ?
Any comments?
Lee
VIN#5729
Lic: 81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 8:19:10 -0600
From: Don Gowler-CFPO01 <Don_Gowler-CFPO01@xxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: RE-GASSING STRUTS
Let's hear more about this re-gassing option on struts please.
Regards, The Silver Fox
Vin 01149 Automatic 81 - black
Vin 10788 Manual 82 - gray
>>I know of an owner who spent less than $20 (equivalent)
>>on simply getting them re-gassed - doors work fine now.
>>
>>Martin
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 10:07:15 EST
From: JSteuben <JSteuben@xxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: 140 MPH SPEEDO
Count me in also. JSteuben@xxxxxxx
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 97 11:22:17 -0000
From: James Espey <espey@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Holiday/Birthday Greeting cards...
Just a reminder that John DeLorean's mailing address is on the web page,
and as Marla and I did our cards last night, we sent one to JZD, too.
Remember, too, that JZD turns 72 on January 6th, and it might be nice to
send him a card for that, too.
James
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 13:51:04 EST
From: GunkelWWW <GunkelWWW@xxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: RE: Version 1.0 of DMC parts database uploaded
I have tried Knuts Parts Database and it is a great software!
When I am ready with our german parts database, I will bring this plug-in
(and all updates) on the internet.
I think it will be a good idea if many clubs/delorean homepages will make
static links to
the other club/owners plug-ins around the world.
I also would like if our german club page will/can feature all other
plug-ins
on our site.
So please tell me (and the delorean mailing list) when you have new
plug-ins.
Markus Gunkel
GunkelWWW@xxxxxxx
VIN 2255
Germany
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 13:21:28 EST
From: WINGD 2 <WINGD2@xxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Polished Wheels
Bob Miller was talking about polishing the wheels on the Delorean. At
the
Kapac event I was talking with Darryl Tinnerstet from Washington about
this
same thing. He showed me some pictures of wheels he's polished in the
past and
they looked very nice. He went on to explain that he no longer polishes
wheels, he now has them chrome plated. He has found that having the wheels
chrome plated is easier to do, the wheels don't take as much work to keep
clean and brite, and that the chrome plating has held up very well to
normal
use. I think he said he's got a set he's been running for three years
with no
problems.
I'm sure the big question for everyone is cost, and with this I can't
help. Darryl never did actually tell me what the cost was. I did get the
impression that the cost was comparable to polishing tho.
I know Darryl has been on this mailing list in the past but I don't
know
if he still is. If so, how about some more info, Darryl ? If not, maybe
someone can contact him and pass the info along.
Thanks, Marty
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 97 15:25:16 -0500
From: "Rob Corkum" <rob.corkum@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: re: Ram Air scoops
First off -- is there a good picture around that shows other solutions to
this, as a reference? DOA issues? JPG, URL?
Ideally, Having the same color, finish and texture as the air vents rear
of
the doors would probably the way to go. Snap in is _definately_ nice.
What do you mean by "free-flowing"? And We must not forget about the
radio
antenna hidden in the left rear vent...
//Rob//
rob.corkum@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
vin 1723
http://www.bitsmart.com/dmcc
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 10:46:36 -0600
From: Daniel McGauley <hawkeye@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: droopy doors
My door struts were drooping a little and were very sluggish upon opening,
in warm and cold weather. I bought two replacement struts from PJ Grady
and I was surprised when I put them in because my doors are now
pathetically drooping. I've tried them in cold and warm weather, but they
are even worse then my old struts. The doors do open faster, but then
immediately drop back down about a foot and a half after reaching it's
highest attempt (quite comical if you aren't paying attention). I talked
with Rob and he said that my torsion bar probably needs adjusting. I
could
never ask for them to refund the struts, I order too much from them to
complain about something small like that, but I'm perplexed as to what is
going on with the doors. I'm going to put my old struts back on and see
what happens. Is there any advice on this matter?
Also, is there an easy way to find out why my door perimiter lights aren't
working. I checked them and they aren't burnt out, but only the middle
light on the drivers door works. Very weird.
- -Daniel McGauley
>This is my first winter with a De Lorean. As soon as the cold temps came
>in,
>my doors started to droop down and now I am beginning to feel like Marty
>McFly
>bumping my head all of the time... Do the door pistons recover when the
>weather heats up, or should I go ahead and buy new pistons? If I do get
>new
>pistons, will they droop too?
>
>Thanks,
>Travis
*************************************************************************
"If you're going to build a time machine out of a car, why not do it
with some style?"
Daniel McGauley (VIN #2903)
Home: hawkeye@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Motorola: mcgauley@xxxxxxxxxxx
Home Page: http://www.actlab.utexas.edu/~hawkeye
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 97 08:23:49 -0000
From: James Espey <espey@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: CarTalk reference to DeLorean owners
Thanks to Mike and Travis for pointing out the survey results, but I have
to admit I was a little ticked at their reference to "DeLorean wackos"
http://cartalk.com/Survey/Results/Charts/Demographics/loyalty.html
While I *seriously* doubt they were referring to the owners as "wackos"
(I imagine they were referring to the uniqueness of car), the choice of
words is poor and also disrespectful of the car and the owners. Instead
of discounting the DeLorean owners as truly being the most loyal owners
in the world, IMO they should have researched the phenomena and commented
on it positively.
Feel the same way as I do? TELL THEM!
http://www.cartalk.com/Tools/feedback.pl
James Espey
Not wacko, just really love the car.
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 13:58:57 PST
From: "erik geerdink" <egglett@xxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: HE SIGNED MY PICTURE
Hi,
I've been a watcher of this place for a LONG TIME and still not a
DeLorean owner, Im working at it though, Im only 17. I sent John
DeLorean a picture of me sitting in a DeLorean I was driving around for
the day and he signed it in silver, very appropriet. He said
"To Erik- Best wishes. John DeLorean"
He also wished me Merry Christmas.
For me that was the ultimate thing that could happen, besides owning a
DeLorean. Thought I'd share that
Erik Geerdink
VIN#-remains to be seen
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 97 17:33:06 PST
From: "Brandon S. Moody" <bsmoody@xxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
> Can someone tell me where I can acquire a clear wiring
> diagram for my 81 DeLorean. I have the copy from a single]
> page in one of the manuals and also from the DeLorean World, but they
> will not blow up so you can read the color code. Is something
> better available?
> I am installing a remote starter and need it for that purpose.
>
> Murray Fisher Vin 05962
> murrayf@xxxxxxx
I actually have one that is approx 3' X 5' . I made it
a few years ago to hang on the wall of my shop so I could
see it from the other side. Originally, I made about 15 - 20 of
these but sold all of them soon after. They were on heavy paper
and laminated. I would consider reproducing these if there was
enough demand. Plotter Velum and laminate isn't exactly free :-)
- -Brandon
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 97 17:46:59 PST
From: "Brandon S. Moody" <bsmoody@xxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: droopy doors
> My door struts were drooping a little and were very sluggish upon opening,
> in warm and cold weather. I bought two replacement struts from PJ Grady
> and I was surprised when I put them in because my doors are now
> pathetically drooping. I've tried them in cold and warm weather, but they
> are even worse then my old struts. The doors do open faster, but then
> immediately drop back down about a foot and a half after reaching it's
> highest attempt (quite comical if you aren't paying attention). I talked
> with Rob and he said that my torsion bar probably needs adjusting. I
> could
> never ask for them to refund the struts, I order too much from them to
> complain about something small like that, but I'm perplexed as to what is
> going on with the doors. I'm going to put my old struts back on and see
> what happens. Is there any advice on this matter?
There really isn't anything more than the T-Bar that could be wrong.
Seems
that cars that sit for long periods of time with doors closed tend to
cause
the bars to get weak. They are at there least amout of strength when the
door is open and at the greatest tension when its closed. Adjustment
isn't
really difficult but it requires careful planning and a little help from
friends.
But, first thing to try is to flip the air pistons upside down and try
them this
way. I know it sounds weird but I have actually found that this sometimes
fixes a drooping door. If you want any help with adjusting the bars,
feel free to e-mail me directly and I can help you with more detailed
instructions.
- -Brandon bsmoody@xxxxxxx
>
> Also, is there an easy way to find out why my door perimiter lights aren't
> working. I checked them and they aren't burnt out, but only the middle
> light on the drivers door works. Very weird.
>
> -Daniel McGauley
>
> >This is my first winter with a De Lorean. As soon as the cold temps
came
> >in,
> >my doors started to droop down and now I am beginning to feel like Marty
> >McFly
> >bumping my head all of the time... Do the door pistons recover when the
> >weather heats up, or should I go ahead and buy new pistons? If I do get
> >new
> >pistons, will they droop too?
> >
> >Thanks,
> >Travis
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 23:35:45 +0000
From: BRUCE BENSON <delornut@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: Another reason for winter garage: Insurance
>I absolutely agree. I do start my DeLorean regularly during the winter. I
>warm it up to operating temperature and I drive it around in my driveway
>(which is fairly long). I used to take it on the road occasionally, but
>not anymore.
I've had my DeLorean for 16 years and live in Minnesota so winter is a
non-event in regards to driving mine. A cold engine produces many
corrosive
by-products, the worst of which is sulfuric acid. It takes a good 20 miles
to cook all of these things out of the crankcase and exhaust system. I've
always let my car sit, un-started, from about November 1st to early
April. I
belive in storing it in an unheated garage because I think the cold works
toward preventing the drying out of seals. I fill the fuel tank, add a
stabilizer, put the car on jackstands and cover it. Mid-winter I put a
battery charger on it for a few hours and that's it. There is always
powdery
salt residue along the wintertime roads here, even when they appear to be
clean. I don't want that stuff finding its way into the crevices of the
frame. I belive its harder on the car to start it every month, with out at
least a 20 mile drive, than to let it sit for a few months. The
troublesome
cars have been stored for years, not months.
Bruce Benson
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 17:21:07 -0500 (EST)
From: Pete Cowan <peter@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Nitrous
I've been looking for ways to increase power in my '83 dmc. I've been
toying with aftermarket turbos and possibly with a nitrous system. I've
seen lots of talk about turbocharging and such but never anything on
nitrous. Has anyone ever heard of this being done?
Also, on the topic of lowering (another winter project on the planning)
I was thinking of gas adjustable shocks instead of changing the springs,
thereby being able to lower it at higher speeds on the highway without
having to worry about bottoming out on speedbumps in the city. Comments?
- --pete #16059
/================+=========================+====================\
|Peter A. Cowan | Office: 607.255.8575 | 165 Hollister Hall |
| SysAdmin | Pager: 607.897.1791 | Cornell University |
|Cadif - Cornell | peter@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx | Ithaca NY 14853 |
\================+=========================+====================/
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 19:02:14 -0800
From: "lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx" <lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: droopy doors
At 09:30 PM 12/11/97 EST, you wrote:
>This is my first winter with a De Lorean. As soon as the cold temps came in,
>my doors started to droop down and now I am beginning to feel like Marty McFly
>bumping my head all of the time... Do the door pistons recover when the
>weather heats up, or should I go ahead and buy new pistons? If I do get new
>pistons, will they droop too?
>
>Thanks,
>Travis
>
Reply:
It's my first winter as well! I am in California on the coast so we don't
get the snow and salt covered roads, but it does rain and get down to
freezing.
I have an older home (100 years) with a garage that was just not suitable
for the DMC, so I decided to put up a new one before the rains started
this
fall. The whole job was a solo project starting with shoveling mixing and
plopping 4 Yards of cocreate for a slab and then erecting a 12X18 building
with pull up door. The whole project took a week (over 3 weeks of spar
time). The first rain began just 15 minutes before I finished hanging the
door, so my DMC got a bath under it's car cover which was something less
than adequate.
It stays inside out of sun and weather, but on nice days gets to buzz
around town doing errands and collecting "gotcha's". Why just to day we
collected three straight Gotch's, one sub-gotcha, and one grand gotcha. Of
course a nice new space is just right for working on the DMC, clean floor,
lots of wall space for tools, etc. You can work on the stainless finish
with out it getting dusty or wet. Gee a guy/Gal just needs a special
"tinker-spot" don't you know!
Well back to making Keys.......>wink!
Lee
VIN#5729
Lic:81DMC-12
- ----------------- End Forwarded Message -----------------
------------------------------
Date: Fri, 12 Dec 1997 19:24:15 -0800
From: "lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx" <lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: re: Ram Air scoops
At 03:25 PM 12/12/97 -0500, you wrote:
>First off -- is there a good picture around that shows other solutions to
>this, as a reference? DOA issues? JPG, URL?
>
>Ideally, Having the same color, finish and texture as the air vents rear
>of
>the doors would probably the way to go. Snap in is _definately_ nice.
>
>What do you mean by "free-flowing"? And We must not forget about the
>radio
>antenna hidden in the left rear vent...
>
>//Rob//
>rob.corkum@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
>vin 1723
>http://www.bitsmart.com/dmcc
>
Reply:
"Free-Flowing" means that in order to work properly it's not enough to
just stick any shape and volume scoop shaped thing into the slipstream of
the DMC's rear Deck. The Initial opening must be in alignment with the
local air flow threw the whole of the speed range. Failure to get this
geometry correct can actually starve the intake flow under certain
conditions.
"Free-Flowing" also means that the surface shape inside the scoop must
both increase the air pressure but also change the direction of the air to
flow with a swirling motion.
Yep snap in is a must for me, as well as "soft" bodied as well. That way
if there is ever a clearance problem the scoop just pops off with no
chance
of damaging the intake grill or the s-s panel.
The antenna is actually a simple solution.
A better life through plastics!
Lee
VIN#5729
Lic: 81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 1997 03:19:44 -0800
From: "lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx" <lseiler@xxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: Ram-Air
At 09:16 PM 12/12/97 -0700, you wrote:
>Lee
>
>My, isn't it interesting how the same thoughts go around even though they
>emanate from different origins.
>
>I have been coresponding with several others about the "need" for scoops to
>provide "ram air". The primary people interested are those with turbos - -
>but several "normally aspirated" are interested as well.
>
>
>Dick Ryan
>The Rad DAd
>
Reply:
Hi Rad-D,
Yes you can help...any pictures or photos would be of help. I am working
out the Air-Flow math at the moment, so style design is next. There are a
number of approaches that would work well so I don't see a shape vs
function problem.
As far as finish goes I can take the "TEXTURE" from any part of the DMC
and apply it to the scoops. The antenna is really a very easy design
consideration, I intend to design the scoop right here on the list so
every
one has an opportunity to have input on this project. I need to ask James
if there is a way to upload a file so every one can "view" the project.
I could make the scoops out of just about any thing from stainless to
construction paper. The material considerations are determined by the
specs
that is set for the project. So far, being soft is a requirement, being a
snap in is a requirement, matching the DMC motif is a requirement, and
having no reversed or choking air-flow is a requirement.
I am fairly serious about producing at least one set for my self, and
because I have a DMC at my disposal I can do the necessary Field testing
for air flow, speed, volume, pressure increase etc.
Like our key project, it's a matter of deciding to do it, not can it be
done or should it be done, or what it will cost to do.
With that said, any one who wants to comment either on this list or
direct
to me please feel free to join in this project.
Lee
VIN#5729
Lic: 81DMC-12
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 1997 06:49:20 EST
From: KKoncelik <KKoncelik@xxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: RE-GASSING STRUTS
if you find a place that will do that I HAVE AT LEAST 8 STRUTS THAT I HAVE
COLLECTED THAT NEED REGASSING. I HAVE TRIED LIFT-O-MAT BUT THEY SAID THEY
WOULDN'T. A REGASSED STRUT WON'T LAST AS LONG UNTIL IT LEAKS OUT BUT I
DON'T
CARE I WISH TO MAINTAIN THE ORIGONAL EQUIPMENT SO IF ANYONE FINDS A PLACE
TO
REGASS THE STRUTS COUNT ME IN. AT $20.00 THATS A NO BRAINER.
kEN
KKONCELIK@xxxxxxx
HTTP://IDT.NET/~DMC1219
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 1997 13:31:35 -0700
From: raddad@xxxxxxx
Subject: Re: DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
Brandon - Assuming a "reasonable" price, I'll take one.
- The Rad Dad
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 1997 15:21:55 EST
From: KKoncelik <KKoncelik@xxxxxxx>
Subject: Re: DML: Clear Wiring Diagram needed
i'll take one if you do reproduce it
ken
kkoncelik@xxxxxxx
http://idt.net/~dmc1219
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 1997 02:20:47 -0600
From: Daniel McGauley <hawkeye@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx>
Subject: DML: New Accumulator Worked Miracles
I purchased my first DeLorean about three months ago, and have had a
constant stream of fuel problems. I'm happy to announce that everything
is
now working perfectly. Here's a summary of what happened.
When I test drove the DeLorean it was very sluggish, but everyone seemed
to
think the DeLorean wasn't a very fast car in the List so I just took it as
a underpowered car. The car also had starting problems when I bought it.
Also, when I'd drive the car for about 60 miles, my car would start to
stall under acceleration. This problem only got worse as I used up more
fuel. Well, I finally opened up the tan, all my rubber components were
either COMPLETELY gone from corrosion or close to it. This included the
fuel pump boot, the main suction line and the return line. There was even
more damage in there, but I won't go into detail. The bottom of the tank
was completely covered with rubber tar-like stuff (the previous owner
never
really drove this car). The reason the car was stalling was that the pump
was only getting fuel from the depth it was at in the tank (there was no
pickup hose to get the rest of the tank). Well, I replaced everything
except for the baffle (including the fuel tank sending unit -> it was
completely torn apart for some reason), and completely cleaned the tank
out.
Everything worked great when I turned the car over, but I didn't drive it
right away. I decided to replace my cap, rotor, wires, and plugs (that
was
really a lot harder then it should be in a car!). When I went to turn the
car over, it would start right away (and sound good), but die instantly.
After a few days, I realized I had inadvertadly mixed up two fuel
distributor lines (I felt pretty stupid). I expected the car to just fire
up after I fixed that, but it didn't. If I kept trying to turn the car
over, it would eventually turn over after about 40 cranks (by this point
it
would be overheating though). If I let the car idle for awhile, it would
sound stronger, but if I stepped on the gas, my engine would sound
horrible
and the car would shudder. I had the firing order right, but still it
wouldn't work. After about 3000 RPM, the engine would sound better, but I
could never get it on the road with the 1500-3000 RPM missing range.
After a month of playing with this problem, I gave up and gave it to my
local Volvo repair shop in Austin (Austin N IH 35 Automotive -
512-834-1616
- -> very nice people). The mechanic had never worked on a DeLorean, but
said he could fix it. After a day he told me my problem was that my
injectors were ruined and that my baffle assembly was causing everything
in
the tank to shudder under acceleration (cutting off fuel as it shuddered).
I had no idea why the baffle assembly would do this (I had initially
thought I had a kink in my new pickup hose, but I tested the car with a
full tank and just the pump sitting in the fuel with no hose, but that
didn't work), but he assured me it was and he decided on his own to
redesign the assembly (throwing away my baffle in the process?!?!). I
don't really care what he had to do as long as the thing ran. He replaced
all injectors and told me to come pick it up because it was running great.
I was so excited. I got down there, paid my bill, and sat in my car for a
15 minutes trying to get it to turn over. The mechanic (Ben) came out and
was a little perplexed since it had started fine that morning. He had me
start it as he pushed the air intake plate down which started it. He told
me to just run 104 cleaner through and that would probably help.
Well, for the next week, my car would start OK in the morning, but run
like
crap for a few minutes (even after it warmed up, I still had a very
sluggish off-the-line speed, like when I bought it). If I turned the car
off for 4 minutes or less, it would start right back up, but anything long
would require 15 minutes of (embarassing) cranking before it would turn
over, but then it would run great. I kept running the 104 through, but no
change. I reread all the starting problems postings and soon began to
realize my accumulator had probably decided to stop functioning. Several
list members contacted me and agreed with that and Rob Grady sent me a new
accumulator.
Well, last night was the final test. I replaced the accumulator, and I'm
happy to say that that was the problem. It is running great now. It
fixed
the warm start problem, and it also seemed to fix the sluggish cold rough
running problem. It also has a terrific off-the-line acceleration now
(compared to before). I'm kinda happy I had all these problems, because,
to me, the car accelerates like a bat out of hell now! Oh yeah, the
accumulator problem also seemed to fix my MPG problem. I was averaging
8-9
MPG, but now it's right at 20 MPG!
Just tought it might help other members to know the details of what
happened.
The following businesses were of incredible help through all of this:
Austin IH 35 Automotive (512) 834-1616 -> repair/parts (volvo)
PJ Grady (800) 350-7429 -> parts/advice
Bob Miller -> Bob, I'm so sorry, I've lost your number, but thanks for all
the advice and parts!
Campbell Autosports (Dave Campbell) -> Fuel screen ($6.79) and
cap/rotor/wires
Numerous other companies (DMC-Houston, Don Steger, etc.) have helped me in
the past, but these companies above helped me through all the fuel
problems.
Thanks again for the help. Time for cosmetic work now.
- -Daniel McGauley
P.S. Thanks again to Bruce for answering hours upon hours of desperate
emails.
*************************************************************************
"If you're going to build a time machine out of a car, why not do it
with some style?"
Daniel McGauley (VIN #2903)
Home: hawkeye@xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx
Motorola: mcgauley@xxxxxxxxxxx
Home Page: http://www.actlab.utexas.edu/~hawkeye
------------------------------
Date: Sat, 13 Dec 1997 20:24:23 -0500 (EST)
From: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Subject: [none]
- ---------------- Begin Forwarded Message ----------------
Date: 12/13 9:34 AM
Received: 12/13 6:10 PM
From: John L. Stiefel, jack.stiefel@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
To: DMCNews, dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Sender: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
Precedence: list
Reply-To: dmcnews@xxxxxxxxxxxxx
I had mine refinished at Transwheel in Huntington indiana. I do buisness
with them
and the cost to me was $50 per wheel. Normally it would be $100.00, try
them
- ---
Email me at Jack.Stiefel@xxxxxxxxxxxxxx
1981 DeLorean Vin 3461
- ----------------- End Forwarded Message -----------------
------------------------------
End of dmcnews-digest V3 #311
*****************************
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