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Posted by: seanery Aug 17 2003, 07:17 PM

Driving for less than 3 minutes today. I slow for a light-BOOM. Then I hear people honking and yelling at me.
"GET OUT YOUR CAR IS ON FIRE!!!"

me, they can't be talking to me. what is that grey shit coming from the hood? OH SHIT, IT IS ME!

944 turbo, up in flames!


Man, I love that car!!

Posted by: tryan Aug 17 2003, 07:21 PM

woe is you. did you get it out quickley?

Posted by: URY914 Aug 17 2003, 07:22 PM

A water pumper catches fire!

Stick with the air cooled ones.

Paul

(Sorry for your loss)

Posted by: rhodyguy Aug 17 2003, 07:26 PM

thank goodness you have the ability to tell us. sorry about the car.

kevin

Posted by: tryan Aug 17 2003, 07:27 PM

did it backfire and set the ass on fire?

Posted by: seanery Aug 17 2003, 07:34 PM

right now, I really don't have the slightest idea.

At first I thought it might have been an oil line, but it aint no 914-6, so my oil's not exposed like that.
It sure made a mess of things. I can't imagine how expensive it's gonna be to fix it!!

I DO carry full coverage! Even on the older cars.

Posted by: scotty Aug 17 2003, 07:37 PM

Wow...glad you're alright. Maybe some FI component blew up?

Posted by: ChrisReale Aug 17 2003, 07:55 PM

Well, to answer the question in the title, no.
Glad you made it out ok.

Posted by: J P Stein Aug 17 2003, 08:03 PM

Had em' go BOOM.....that's bad....but insurance don't cover that.....I've never had a convenient fire....sounds like a gud plan, considering the circumstances.....hope you didn't put it out too qiuck.

Posted by: tryan Aug 17 2003, 08:16 PM

can you stuff a 928 motor in that hole.

Posted by: GWN7 Aug 17 2003, 08:59 PM

Sorry to hear about the loss. Good thing it didn't happen last weekend. Pictures?

Posted by: Aaron Cox Aug 17 2003, 09:09 PM

sucks.....how much is it worth?... could buy some nice 914 stuff with that

Posted by: redshift Aug 17 2003, 10:57 PM

Holy crap! Good to hear you weren't charred!

I burned a teener once, I like talking about it.



M

Posted by: jonwatts Aug 17 2003, 11:02 PM

Sounds like a good candidate for a 350 SBC transplant to me. How bad was the fire damage? Show us the porno for pyros!!!

Posted by: Pnambic Aug 18 2003, 12:22 AM

Wow, ditto the glad to see you made it out OK sentients.

Had an old Hyundai *almost* catch fire on me while I was driving it on a road trip once. I was 17 and somehow an old rag (i musta run over or something) got wrapped around the transaxle right next to the oil pan. I was wondering why people kept passing me giving me strange looks till I noticed the burning embers on the ground behind my car (it was about 10 p.m. or I never would have seen them). I got REAL lucky that I wasn't hurt, but not lucky enough that it didn't kill the Hyundai.

Posted by: 914zim Aug 18 2003, 11:43 AM

Sean:

Damn, I'm sorry to hear about your "incident" That sucks!!
All this talk of cars catching on fire has me spooked...
I was going to try and fire my 914 up (bad choice of words?)
tonight after it's been sitting for 4 years in a garage.
I just got it last week and I've replaced all the fluids and filters,
cleaned out all the mice crap and seeds and got the gas tank
reconditioned. It's got 76K original miles on it.
I thought I'd put a bottle of injector cleaner in and definately
have the fire extinguisher handy when I try to start it.
Any other suggestions?
Good luck Sean.

Andy...

P.S. let me know in the seats.

Posted by: tryan Aug 18 2003, 12:09 PM

two fire extinguishers

Posted by: Lawrence914-6 Aug 18 2003, 12:14 PM

Just catching up on this thread..

Wow - glad to hear that you're okay.

Keep us posted, and hopefully you got pics!

Posted by: Lawrence914-6 Aug 18 2003, 12:17 PM

Andy,

I used to live in Milwaukee... what side of town are you on?

About your teener... you might want to consider pulling the plugs and spraying the insides of the cylinders with some oil - to help mitigate wear on that dry start-up.

You could consider pulling your injectors and spraying them out/off with a bit of carb cleaner. How are the injector o-rings looking? Did you replace the cloth covered fuel lines with the newer style safe ones?

Also, turn the key to run, let the fuel pump work for a bit, and check to make sure all your fuel lines are tight and stuff.

Posted by: Jeroen Aug 18 2003, 12:18 PM

Hey Sean,

Glad you got out alright and hope the insurance will cough up some 914 money

cheers,

Jeroen

Posted by: seanery Aug 18 2003, 12:32 PM

We'll see about the insurance company.

They treated me like a criminal this morning.
Asked me about my financial situation, if the car was for sale, if it had been modified lately.
They asked the same questions about 3 or 4 times in different manners looking for a different answer.
Like NYPD Blue or Law and Order.

They better cough up some dough!
I couldn't find an 86 turbo for less than 9k in excellence or panorama last night.

-sean

Posted by: Brad Roberts Aug 18 2003, 12:34 PM

What did you tell them ?? Um.. I drove the car 8 hours last week. I was sitting in traffic when it burnt...


B

Posted by: Pnambic Aug 18 2003, 12:38 PM

BTDT

I'll bet their first offer doesn't exceed $4200.

Go ahead and get quotes from three separate sources (preferrably dealers) to replace your car. With those quotes, you might stand a chance to get them to up the offer.

Had to go through this 3 years ago....eventually got them to double the offer, but it was hell getting there.

Posted by: Lawrence914-6 Aug 18 2003, 12:39 PM

Don't forget the PCA's valuation service. It's listed in Pano every month.

Posted by: tryan Aug 18 2003, 12:39 PM

i got a 2500 dollar screwing on the teener. the insurance co was nice, but the state won't issue a salvage title on a car more that 10 years old. i have my ways and i am working on it.

keep the vaseline jar handy, you might need it.


i would guess your air box blew with a hung cold start. are we taking bets on the cause yet?


i had a letter from pca on values. it helped. when in doubt, sick mikez on them.

Posted by: #1RAGE Aug 18 2003, 03:10 PM

I just got my teener at the beginning of this summer and not long after I got it I had to get some new fuel hoses because it was leaking gas under the tank. A couple of days after I fixed that I was smelling more gas... I popped the engine lid and got to see gasoline dripping on to my hot engine. Luckily I replaced that before it cause any serious trouble.

My dad's Aerostar van had an alternator that was starting to go. It was in pretty bad shape but he decided to see if I could drive the van in all on battery power. Well only a couple of blocks from the mechanic's place he noticed some smoke coming from under the hood. When he popped the hood a lot of smoke came out and then a huge flame bursted up from the alternator. Luckily he was able to put it out with his water bottle. Didn't think an alternator would catch fire like that.

Oh, and apparently when a 914 burns, IT BURNS! See the attached picture.


Attached thumbnail(s)

Posted by: Bleyseng Aug 18 2003, 03:31 PM

Sean, I'll give up my screen name if you want it as its more fitting for you!

Geoff (Bleyseng pronounced-Blazing)

Posted by: seanery Aug 18 2003, 04:06 PM

I just got back from the insurance company. Went there to pick up some paperwork.

They want me to give them power of attorney for the car - they haven't even seen it yet.
They want me to give them access to all of my financial records - what the fuck!
They want me to give them permission to tear the car apart - what? Remember, they haven't even seen it yet!
They want me to fill out a form describing the incident and all of my life, basically, when I bought the car, how I first found out about the car, yada, yada, yada.

I think this is a load of shit. My dad and brother told me if I sign it-I'm fucked. I tend to agree!


I called her back (didn't answer) and left her a message telling her that this was inapropriate.
They are STILL making me feel like a thief, cheat, liar!

Posted by: Bleyseng Aug 18 2003, 05:10 PM

What insurance company is this? Sounds like time to call your state insurance comissioner.

Geoff

Posted by: URY914 Aug 18 2003, 05:55 PM

I have a friend of mine that says never talk to the insurance company without talking to a lawyer first.

Yes-he's a lawyer.

Paul

Posted by: seanery Aug 18 2003, 05:55 PM

I'm thinking about finding one.

Posted by: Bleyseng Aug 18 2003, 05:59 PM

Talk to a lawyer second, your state should have someone to talk to free about the laws in your state.
Geoff

Posted by: tryan Aug 18 2003, 06:15 PM

may the force be with you luke.

Posted by: Part Pricer Aug 18 2003, 06:16 PM

Sean,

You have to treat them the same way they are treating you. Insurance companies can be crooks, don't trust them.

Tell them:

• You are the owner of the car. You will sign over the title to them when they pay you for the true value of the vehicle. Tell them that you don't understand the request for the Power of Attorney. Ask them why they need it.
• Tell them, \"My financial records are private and confidential.\" Period, end of that conversation.
• Tell them that they do not have permission to tear the car apart. However, you will agree to let an appraiser examine the vehicle for damage.
• Fill out their info form. But, ignore anything that does not have to do with the car.

Did the Fire Department come to extinguish the fire? If so, get a copy of their report. Also, request a copy of the final determination as to cause.

Posted by: vsg914 Aug 18 2003, 06:31 PM

Don't sign anything!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Posted by: seanery Aug 18 2003, 07:40 PM

thanks for the info guys!

I havent signed ANYTHING!
nor will I til this is settled to my satisfaction.

Posted by: GWN7 Aug 18 2003, 08:59 PM

Paul Heery's right on with his info.

Put it all in writing. Their requests to you and your replys. Keep a paper trail.

You might not need a copy of the fire departments service report, yet, but they are available.

Find out where the insurance companys head office is. A letter to the general manager expressing your dissatisfaction of how the agent is handling this matter might be in order in the future.

You do have to give them a statement. The same one you gave to the police (did you report it to them yet?)
But that's it...like "On (date) at (time) I was driving my (car/make/model) on (Street) when neibouring cars started honking their horns at me. I stoppped the car and flames started coming out from under the hood. I got out of my car and called the fire department." date and sign it. mail it to them.

Call your state insurance commisioner and ask what are your rights. Tell them why your calling.

In most jurisdictions the fire department or fire commisioners office has the right to determine how and why a fire has started.

Posted by: street legal go-kart Aug 18 2003, 09:13 PM

s

ask the ins co to provide their request's in writing .
usualy when you ask for written documentation the attitude gets a lot better .
your financial records are of no import to the ins. co. so request an explanation in writing from a senior adjuster as to why they are requesting confiidential information about your financial situation
good luck

jt

Posted by: Doug Leggins Aug 18 2003, 10:05 PM

Good to hear that you didn't get injured in the flames. What a PITA dealing with the aftermath!

Occurances like this piss me off about insurance. We pay an agreed upon amount for an agreed upon service. However, all too often, it turns into a bit of a battle to exercise the agreement that we have already paid for! WTF - Something just ain't right with this! It seems kind of criminal some of the tactics and request that the insurance companies employ.

I've got a friend that works for a national insurance co. Just for the hell of it I'll ask her what the insurance co will do and why, and what the insured should do. - I'll let you know if I can get any good tips.

Good luck with getting this to go your way.

Posted by: Rob Ways Aug 18 2003, 11:19 PM

Hey, you copped my avitar!!! Thats cool Good choice!!

Posted by: Rob Ways Aug 18 2003, 11:23 PM

Thats awful about your 951! Engine fire is the biggest concern I have about my teens and eleven. Insurance companies will try and work you but if you ride them hard you can make out better. I just saw a 356 cab charred in Los Gatos. I went back for picts but it was gone. It was bad too. There's just no way to bring a car back from a bad fire...

Glad you're OK though. Good luck.

Posted by: Pnambic Aug 19 2003, 05:44 AM

I'm insured through Farm Bureau. Never had a claim until last year. Then...

- Hit a deer in March....$1400 damage
- Hit another deer in April....$2600 damage.
 EVEN WITH NEW DEER WHISTLES
- Last car in a pile-up on I-69 in Dec....totalled my car.
 A lady actually came to a complete stop in the fast lane in the middle of morning rush hour b/c someone cut in front of her...5 car pile-up.

Farm Bureau didn't bat an eye. Took care of me 110%. Even if I could find cheaper coverage elsewhere (I'm sure its out there) I wouldn't switch. My rates haven't even changed more than a few bucks per 6mo.

First rate service.

Posted by: 914zim Aug 19 2003, 06:15 AM

Lawrence:
I grew up on the south side (20th and Layton, near Mitchell field) and I am living in New Berlin for the last 10 years.
When did you live in Milwaukee? Did you go to school here?
Can you come over and help me get my 914 started?!
I tried it last night, but no luck. I heard the fuel pump working and it turned over strong, but no firing.
I'll start the troubleshooting tonight. I'll check for spark and then the points (I did replace them) and I think
I may need to check the points gap. I was very dissapointed last night, but maybe I had my hopes too high.
My 914 hasn't been started in 4 years, but was inside a garage.
Wish me luck.
Thanks,
Andy...

Posted by: Lawrence914-6 Aug 19 2003, 06:24 AM

Andy,

When I was young, I lived in North Lake, but for high school, lived in Wauwatosa. I went to MLHS.

I would certainly come over and help, if I was in the area - but I live in Kansas these days.

Tell you what - please start a new thread, and give us the info for your car. There is a great wealth of experience here, and we'll help you if we can.

-Rusty

Posted by: seanery Aug 19 2003, 12:39 PM

Is coolant/antifreeze flamable?

It sounds like the cause of the fire was a flamable substance on the header.
I'm not sure if the "boom" was before or after the fire started now.

Posted by: Brad Roberts Aug 19 2003, 12:41 PM

I just read something last night (while sitting in the Krispy Kreme drive thru at 2am) that POrsche recalled the 944 Turbo's for a fuel line issue at or near the top of the engine.

Know anything about this ??


B

Posted by: Lawrence914-6 Aug 19 2003, 12:42 PM

Was that info on the Krispy Creme drive-thru menu??

Posted by: seanery Aug 19 2003, 12:43 PM

no, but that could be it. It fits with the insurance company's assesment.

Posted by: Part Pricer Aug 19 2003, 12:43 PM

I don't think antifreeze is flamable. However, from the Windshield Washer Fluid bottle:

"Contains over 20% Methonol. FLAMAMABLE - Keep away from heat and open flame"

Posted by: tryan Aug 19 2003, 12:44 PM

disagree with that.

it sounds like the insurance co wants it to be a mechanical failure.

the power steering pump is the only thing on that side?

Posted by: seanery Aug 19 2003, 12:45 PM

power steering is on that side, window washer is on that side.

what about fuel rail?

Posted by: tryan Aug 19 2003, 12:56 PM

you would have smelled gas or the engine would have died. the fuel rail metal and is on the intake side. i don't think the turbo/exhaust would have gotten that hot in just a few miles. they are dreaming

look at you policy and see if there is a loop hole for them on a mechanical failure.

the first thing my insurance co asked about was the parking brake.( i had a photo of the car sitting in the driveway running to prove it worked.) they also asked if the brake been worked on recently. nope.

has the adjuster looked at it yet?

tell the insurance co that you are going to get three estimates for repairs and see what they say.

Posted by: Brad Roberts Aug 19 2003, 01:00 PM

Sorry.. I have to ask this Tryan..

How do you take a pic of a car running (to prove its running)..unless it smokes ?? LOL

I was Trying to understand your post... not Trying to bust your balls.

LB.. I was reading an issue of Porsche 911 world that was sent to me.


B

Posted by: Lawrence914-6 Aug 19 2003, 01:03 PM

In the drivethru at 2am?

Okay.. I suppose that could happen.

If I'm ever at a drivethru at 2am, I'm usually lucky that I can focus on the road - let alone read a magazine.

Posted by: seanery Aug 19 2003, 01:04 PM

i've seen the pic and I think you can see a little smog/steam from the exhaust.

Posted by: tryan Aug 19 2003, 01:39 PM

they are both smokers.

i had a regular camera out and wasted the last two shots on a roll. both smoke/steam when you fire them up after being in the basement. the teener clears up pretty quick, but you have to drive the 911 to make it stop smokin'.

i'm now getting stiffed ( my choice ) for the final 40% check from the insurance co because good 'ol tn won't issue a salvage title on a car older than 10 years. when the t rusts down to the ground and SOMEBODY starts making 914-6 heat exchangers, the two will become one.

Posted by: seanery Aug 19 2003, 01:47 PM

They just totalled the car.

More to come.

Posted by: Part Pricer Aug 19 2003, 02:00 PM

That's a shame. I know how much you loved that car. It was a true classic that will be very difficult to replace.

Good luck.

Posted by: Brad Roberts Aug 19 2003, 02:01 PM

NICE.

I'll holf off on putting the engine back in..LOL


B

Posted by: Lawrence914-6 Aug 19 2003, 05:03 PM

Hang in there. Hopefully they'll do right by you. Stick to your guns.

Posted by: Pnambic Aug 22 2003, 08:25 PM

Felt creative...sung to "Pop goes the weasle."

He drove around, all over town.
He'd just gone to the store (sha).
He heard a noise, what was that sound?
BOOM! goes the Porsche.

Sean escaped, without a scratch,
But the car bured to the floor (sha).
Now Progressive's treating him like a biatch.
BOOM! goes the Porsche.



I must be sleep deprived or something....

Posted by: seanery Aug 28 2003, 03:03 PM

It's done, all done. I feel like I did ok by the deal.

Posted by: tryan Aug 28 2003, 03:06 PM

cool.

Posted by: driver66 Aug 29 2003, 05:33 AM

does anyone use a fire retard system of any kind on these 914's ???????sounds like something to look into...........and again sorry for your loss

Posted by: seanery Aug 29 2003, 07:41 AM

I did well, so, please don't feel sorry for me. It was just a water pumper anyway. Thank God it wasn't a teener!!!