Dear Walter:
I hope you can help me. The other day I set off for work leaving my
husband in the house watching TV as usual. I hadn't gone more than a
mile down the road when my engine conked out and the car shuddered to a
halt. I walked back home to get my husband's help. When I got home I
couldn't believe my eyes. He was in our bedroom with the neighbor lady.
I am 32, my husband is 34, and we've been married for 12 years.
When I confronted him, he broke down and admitted they had been having
an affair for six months. I told him to stop or I would leave him. He
was let go from his job six months ago, and stated he's feeling
depressed and worthless. I love him very much, but ever since I gave him
the ultimatum he has become increasingly distant. He won't go to
counseling and I'm afraid I can't get through to him anymore.
Can you please help?
Sincerely,
Anne
Dear Anne:
A car stalling after being driven a short distance can be caused by a
variety of faults with the engine. Start by checking that there is no
debris in the fuel line. If it is clear, check the vacuum pipes and
hoses on the intake manifold and also check all grounding wires. If none
of these approaches solves the problem, it could be that the fuel pump
itself is faulty, causing low delivery pressure to the carburetor float
chamber.
I hope this helps.
Walter
