Dear Walter: I hope you can help me here. The other day, I set off for
work in my Volvo 1800 leaving my husband in the house watching the 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 neighbour lady. I am 32, my husband is 34, and we have
been married for twelve years.

When I confronted him, he broke down and admitted that they had been
having an affair for the past six months. I told him to stop or I would
leave him.

He was let go from his job six months ago and he says he has been feeling
increasingly 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 counselling and I'm afraid I can't get through to him
anymore.

Can you please help?

Sincerely, Sheila



Dear Sheila: An 1800 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
lines and hoses on the in-take 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
carburettor float chamber.

I hope this helps.

-Walter