High Tech Misfit <me@privacy.net> wrote in
news:2r1x1w07tr1p$.dlg@hightech.misfit:

>
> Update: The exhaust note resulted from a pair of holes in what the
> mechanic referred to as a "front exhaust pipe". Not sure if this is
> the pipe you are referring to, but it's the one that extends from the
> cat toward the front of the car (this was not replaced when I had the
> muffler and cat replaced). This set me back another $220.



That's the famous A-pipe. Mine's original. 275,000 miles and 15 years.
It's still sound, but is looking decidedly ugly. I think its longevity
is due to my relatively high annual mileage. The car doesn't sit much,


>
> Concerning the gas fumes, perhaps that was not fuel I saw on the
> ground yesterday because nothing is leaking from underneath now. But
> the fumes still remain.



A common source of gas fumes is the low-pressure return lines alongside
the fuel tank, below the filler neck. A secondary source is the filler
neck overflow pipe having rotted.


>
> My father suggested to wait until next spring to get a newer car.
> Well, if another non-routine problem comes up between now and winter's
> end, I think that will be it. :-(
>


Corrosion is a major problem up here, at least in Eastern Canada. I have
found that if you buy the car used, it had better be pretty new,
otherwise rust will have gotten away from you by the time you take
ownership.


--
TeGGeR®

The Unofficial Honda/Acura FAQ
www.tegger.com/hondafaq/