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The Car Care Clinic

Engine Additives

by Bob DeP.
AskBob@stretcher.com

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Hi Bob,
I have a 1979 Lincoln Town Car I bought 3 years ago that seems to have been well maintained. For several months I had to keep adding transmission fluid until I could afford to take it into a shop. They replaced the diaphragm valve in the vacuum module, changed the fluid and filter, and checked out the transmission and said it's still in great shape, however, the engine now runs rough they said because the transmission fluid being burned in the engine has left deposits, and I need to get a tune-up. So my dad has given me some Dura-Lube Fuel Treatment that's supposed to help clean things out until I can get a tune-up. But, I thought I read in one of your articles that this can damage the seals and other things on older cars. Is that only if this is used on a regular basis? Would a one-time treatment hurt? Also, what should I have the car checked for if I want to be able to use it for long road trips (or should I wait till I can get a newer car)? Thanks in advance for your helpful advice.
Mary

Mary,
I can't believe it!! Someone actually told you the truth!!! I can't believe that they only replace the vacuum diaphragm and not the whole modulator. At every chance you gave them to rake you over the coals and charge you a bundle they messed up. Except for one. The story about burning the tranny fluid is true, but the liquid tune up won't help. Try replacing the spark plugs after all that gas is used up and I bet that it will run as great as ever!
Good Luck!
Drive Safely!
Bob, The Auto Answer Man

If you have a question for Bob send it to: AskBob@stretcher.com. He's able to answer many of them personally and we'll include the best questions in future issues of The Dollar Stretcher.

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