The Wet Foot Syndrom

Q:

I have a 1987 Spider Veloce that leaks when it rains. The leak is on the driver's side near the pedals. The passenger side also leaks, but less severly. Why? -- Mark R

Q:

My right foot gets drenched when I make a right turn. Any ideas? -- David R.

A:

Assuming the leaks are not coming from the convertible top (a common source of water ingress) you should probably check three areas:

1. The windshield sealing rubber: Remove the metal trim piece at the base of the windshield and make sure the windshield sealing rubber isn't pulling away from the frame or glass. If it is, seal it with windshield sealer. Use a silicone sealant since it will stay flexible longer.

2. The drain tube coming from the air conditioner: If the A/C is running and the tube is clogged or loose, your foot will get drenched from a right turn. Clean out the drain using compressed air or a piece of wire. Make sure the drain tube is firmly affixed to the A/C nipple, use a cable tie if neccessary.

3. The hoses that drain the air grate (the slotted metal piece mounted directly in front of the windshield). In theory, rain water that enters the air grate drains out two drain hoses that are routed into the front wheel wells. When either or both drain hoses get plugged, water instead pours out of the eyeball vents on either side of the dash. An easy test is to get out the garden hose and run water into the air grate. Water should pour out of the drain hoses. If not, the hose is blocked and needs to be cleaned out. The solution is to remove the air grate and clean out the drain hoses to make sure they are free of debris.

   Reinstalling the air grate can be a real pain, but I think the following procedure helps:

   To help install the air grate, cut a thick metal coat hanger into eleven two-inch sections and bend each section into an "L" or hockey stick shape. Place an "L" between the prongs of each attaching clip (the prongs of the clips are difficult to separate during installation and the "L" pieces do that for you). Install the panel with two prongs above and one prong below the grate (the upper prongs also hold the stainless trim strip in place). When the grate is properly positioned with respect to the clips, pull out the "L" pieces and push the grate into place. Next fit the trim strip. Carefully lay the strip on top of the grate and gently coax it under the clips on the driver's side until the first screw can be inserted. Tighten this screw enough to allow the trim piece to pivot, then carefully press down and back on the trim strip to engage the remainder of the clips (WD-40 may help). Finish by placing a small wood block on the grate and carefully striking it with a rubber mallet to seat the trim strip, working from the driver's side. Tighten both trim screws. Next, insert the rubber seal, adjust the grate's alignment if necessary, and install the four mounting screws.