Dear Walter,

I hope you can help me. The other day, as usual, I set off for work leaving my husband in the house watching TV. I hadn’t gone more than a few hundred yards down the road when my engine conked out and the car shuddered to a halt. I walked back home to get my husband’s help.

When I got home, I couldn’t believe my eyes. He was parading in front of the wardrobe mirror dressed in my underwear, high-heel shoes and wearing my make-up.

I’m 32, he’s 34 and we’ve been married for twelve years. When I confronted him, he tried to make out that he had dressed in my lingerie because he couldn’t find his own underwear. But when I asked him about the make-up,he broke down and admitted that he’d been wearing my clothes for six months. I told him to stop or I’d leave him.

He was let go from his job six months ago and says he’s been feeling depressed and worthless. I love him very much, but ever since I gave him the ultimatum he’s become increasingly distant. I don’t feel I can get through to him anymore. Can you please help?

Sincerely,
Sheila

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Dear Sheila,


A car stalling after being driven a short distance can be caused by a variety of faults with the engine. Start by checking for debris in the fuel line. If it’s clear, check the jubilee clips holding the vacuum pipes onto the inlet manifold.

If none of these approaches solves the problem, it could be that the fuel pump itself is faulty, causing low delivery pressure to the carburetor float chamber. I hope this helps.

Sincerely,
Walter