1987 Ford Escort Burnt material smell when driving over 10

Tiny
RHHERRON865
  • MEMBER
  • 1987 FORD ESCORT
  • 4 CYL
  • FWD
  • MANUAL
  • 75,000 MILES
My grandson died recently and I have been trying to get his car ready to sell. I recently drove to a town about 10 miles away and noticed a "burnt material" smell although there was no evidence of overheating. When cleaning out the car, I found a metal piece about 6"by 8" in the back. I am wondering if this could have been some kind of cover for the catalytic converter and the smell indicates a potential fire hazard?
Monday, March 8th, 2010 AT 12:14 PM

1 Reply

Tiny
SERVICE WRITER
  • MECHANIC
  • 9,123 POSTS
So sorry to hear of your loss.

What does the scent most resemble?

A converter shield soes protect the body and should be installed back on with large hose clamps.
Post a pic if you like.

I would take a look around the exhaust manifold and the pipe for the exhaust at the engine for any signs of oil seapage that may be getting on them and burning off.

Although fires are not common, they are certainly possible.
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Tuesday, March 9th, 2010 AT 5:12 AM

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