To: metropolitan@listserv.azstarnet.com
From: smallman@rockies.net (John Smallman)
Subject: Re: we just bought one!!!!!!!!!! A FEW questions!!
Date: Mon, 29 Sep 1997 15:43:41 -0600

>On Thu, 25 Sep 1997 JAKIEFER@aol.com wrote:
>
>> Congrats!  The only difficulty I have with starting, is the keylock is
>> attached to the headlight knob, and you kinda gotta be careful to avoid
>> leaving the headlights on....
>
>Not to say that someone else wont have the problem, but I've never turned
>on the headlights on my Met when starting it.>Laura 

I suspect a badly fitting ignition key might be the reason lights could get
inadvertantly switched on.
I took the entire switch out of my car, and soaked it in WD 40, and then a
small amount of penetrating oil into the key channel.  It has operated
smoothly ever since.

I notice several new met owners in dialogue.  I've had mine for a couple of
years, and done much work.
Speaking to others also, it seems to me there are 2 areas of special
importance to check out.

1.  Lucas ignition.  If in doubt - replace points, rotor, condenser, plugs
and distributor cap.  There are readily available and inexpensive.
Wiring - try to clean up and tighten all connections in and around fuse
block and voltage regulator.

2.  Gas tank rust.  Inexplicable and unexpectedly - migrating fine rust from
your gas tank WILL stop you!  Take the cap off the fuel pump (hex head screw
right on top) and you'll see indide the sediment trap.  Spoon out all the
crap you can.  And consider taking the gas tank right out, and coating it
with Bill Hirsch gas tank sealant (The alcohol proof variety).  It needs
some care as gasoline is hazardous.  Do it outdoors and ventilate everything
well.  Make new gaskets for gas gauge and fuel line holes.  Also take lid
off gauge sender (careful - there are fine wires waiting to be broken by the
heavy handed!!) And use WD40 or other drying type contact cleaner to clean
this unit.
Its not a hard job and will save you breakdowns!

Let's add the occasional "tech tip" as our experience allows eh??

jrs
Rev. John Smallman, Invermere B.C. (smallman@rockies.net)
   Windermere Valley Shared Ministries (Anglican & United)
         "30 Years of practical cooperative ecumenism"
"I could no more worry than I could curse or swear!" - John Wesley
"I'm afraid with the right stimulation I can do both" - John Smallman