Frank Still Asks Re: <VV> Houston - we have a problem!!! Corvair related

[FrankCB at aol.com]

Roger,
    If you REALLY want us to help you diagnose whether  you "damaged your 
motor" you have to provide some answers to the questions we  ask.  Without 
knowing what your engine temp was or whether the overtemp  buzzer activated it's 
difficult for us to assist you.
    Has the car developed any other symptoms since this  incident?  Does it 
leak more oil now (possibly indicating damage to the  push rod tube O-rings)?
    We need feedback to advise you further.
    Regards,
    Frank Burkhard
 
 
In a message dated 12/13/2006 5:19:27 PM Eastern Standard Time, FrankCB  
writes:

 
Roger,
    Do you have a temp gauge on the Spyder?   What was it reading when you 
drove without a functioning fanbelt?  Did  the overtemperature buzzer ever come 
on to indicate a dangerously high engine  temp?
    This is again a perfect example of WHY EVERY  Corvair needs a temp gauge 
to indicate cooling problems BEFORE they cause  damage.  I once drove 7 miles 
home in a Corvair with no functioning  fanbelt (slipping harmonic balancer) by 
stopping every 1-1/2 miles to cool  down when the CHT temp gauge reached 450 
deg.F.   Without that  gauge, I would have called the tow truck.  There was no 
damage to the  engine and it lasted many more miles and many more years (it 
did have Viton O  rings).
    Tighten the fan belt only enough so that you can  turn the generator 
pulley using one finger but with a bit  of effort.  And carry a spare belt with 
you along with the short  9/16 inch wrench needed to change it.
    You likely did NOT seriously damage  the engine provided you were not 
running boosted.  But if it  leaks oil now, your O rings may be cooked.
    Good luck!
    Frank "likes temp gauges" Burkhard 
 
 
In a message dated 12/13/2006 4:50:46 PM Eastern Standard Time,  
ilikeoldcars at bellsouth.net writes:

Okay.  I am trying to calm down but am nervous to say the  least.  Took the 
Spyder out a little while ago to get some lunch.   Nice day here so thought it 
would be nice for me and the wife to take it  out.   We got about 5 miles down 
the road and I looked in my rear  view mirror  and there was smoke coming 
from the engine  compartment.  Looked at my dash and the GEN light was bright 
red.   I immediately turned the engine off and coasted to a stop.  I got out  and 
checked the engine compartment and sure enough the belt had come  loose.  I 
just checked it yesterday and it had very little play.   I didn't have any 
tools with me so I had a tow truck bring it home.   

My question is this? Did I damage my motor? Why would the belt have  come 
loose if it was tight yesterday?  What should I do now?  I  called the guy I 
bought ti from to get some advice but couldn't reach him so  I am asking you  guys.

Roger