Challenging Adventures in Auto Repair: Stories of Poor Car Repairs and Fascinating Mechanisms

Introduction

Beyond the routine and expected, auto repair can be a fascinating and often challenging field. This article shares two of the most memorable and unusual incidents encountered in the world of automotive repair. These stories serve as cautionary tales and interesting anecdotes for both seasoned mechanics and curious enthusiasts alike.

The Ford LTD Incident

In the late 1970s, I was faced with a challenge unlike any other when a 70s Ford LTD with flooding problems was towed in. The problem was traced back to a sunk float in the carburetor. I didn't even need to start the car to see that an oil filter change was necessary due to severe fuel contamination—so much so that the smell was evident. My intention was to pull the spark plugs, clean them, and add some oil to the cylinders, as they were likely dry from exposure to gasoline.

However, the customer took offense and thought the proposed repairs were overpriced. He paid for the carburetor repair and got into his car. After just three seconds of cranking, a muffled backfire led to a powerful explosion that I will never forget. All the fuel vapor in the crankcase ignited and blew the engine wide open. It was an extraordinary sight, with the rocker covers swelling to about half their normal size, the oil pan swelling and splitting open, and the oil filler cap being ejected with such force that it dented the hood. The engine had literally been over-inflated from the inside out.

The Ford Probe Spark Plug Incident

Another memorable repair involved a Ford Probe. While meticulously changing the spark plugs, I encountered an unexpected issue. Upon tightening the last plug, the engine block was found to be exceptionally soft, leading to improper torque on the original plugs. This led to complications that took six weeks to resolve. The first mechanic, due to the restricted workspace, suffered a heart attack while working on the engine. The intricacies of the Ford Probe, with little room in the engine compartment and parts that couldn't be removed without moving the engine, made the repair process incredibly arduous.

The 1955 Ford Customline Distributor Mishap

Working on a 1955 Ford Customline posed its challenges as well. After rebuilding the distributor, I discovered that the timing kept slipping before the shaft seized in the housing. The repair manual did not mention the end float of the distributor shaft, but it could only be accurately adjusted after the distributor was installed. This unexpected required additional work, taking two days and numerous phone calls to locate a replacement distributor. This experience taught me the importance of understanding the nuances of different models, even as specified in the repair manual.

Conclusion

These incidents serve as reminders of the unique challenges and unpredictable nature of auto repair. From a spectacular engine explosion to a heart-stopping encounter with a restricted workspace, each story holds valuable lessons that will help in future repairs. Whether you're a professional mechanic or an automotive enthusiast, these stories emphasize the importance of meticulous attention to detail and the value of continuous learning in the automotive field.