Handbrakes, wipers and welding

[markthe45king]

Lily appears to be going through a difficult phase!

I started to look at the wipers which aren't working and noticed the black box was very hot to the touch - is that normal?

Then the push down button and spring in the handbrake have started popping out at a rate of knots when you release the handbrake - I'm sure the temporary solution of sticking them back in every time isn't the best fix possible, so any ideas on a proper fix?

We also seem to be smelling quite petrol-y after a run; there's no obvious leaks around the tank and the visible brackets look solid - so could it just be I'm running her too rich?

Finally does anyone know a good welder in the Surrey area as I have some pre-mot welding that needs doing.

Sorry it's quite long winded!

Mark

[LouiseM]

Then the push down button and spring in the handbrake have started popping out at a rate of knots when you release the handbrake - I'm sure the temporary solution of sticking them back in every time isn't the best fix possible, so any ideas on a proper fix?

I've had this problem previously and the solution was a replacement hand brake assembly. Keep a look out on ebay or place an ad in the wanted forum here as someone may have one.

Regarding the petrol smell, have you checked the braided pipe that goes to the fuel pump as these can deteriorate internally but still look OK externally - check for any leaks when the engine is running.

[bmcecosse]

As I remember the button screws on to the release rod.....surely just a case of perhaps screwing it on tightly with some Loctite - or repairing the threads....

[kennatt]

check the pipe from the filler to the tank,it often dosent leak but lets the fumes from the tank in to the car.

[bmcecosse]

And check the top surface of the petrol tank - often goes in to 'pin holes' due to condensation/moisture settling there...... Petrol smells are very dangerous and not at all 'normal' - you must track down and eliminate any leaks urgently.

[charlie_morris_minor]

I can recommend chertsey minors for welding.

as for the wipers, have you disconnected the rack from the motor and moved it by hand and provided you put the lid back on your motor you will be able to run the motor, to see if the problem is a stiff rack or a broken wiper motor.. sorry if you have already done this.

for the petrol smell have you looked at the carb.. it might be flooding

[tysonn]

Best fix the petrol problem before the welding ;-)