Honda Civic garage fire!

When building a fast car, modification of the fuel system is almost always needed. To make more power with an engine, it's a simple formula of more air in, more fuel in, more power out! During the build, utmost precaution must be taken to ensure that no fires will be started. The following crew of amateur builders obviously didn't follow the rules, as their Honda Civic project car was sent up in flames. Converting the garage into a variable hell consumed with toxic fumes, hot flames, and the potential for explosion; building a fast car is noted to be a considerably dangerous activity if the proper build ethics aren't followed.


Preventing a car fire like this is very simple. Before actually starting the car and warming up the exhaust manifold, one should pressure test the fuel system. Turn the fuel pressure regulator up slightly higher than intended use, and turn the ignition to the "on" position. This will engage the fuel pump and prime the system for use. Inspecting all fuel connections and especially those around or above the exhaust manifold, use your sniffer to detect gasoline. The great thing about gasoline is that it loves to evaporate, and when it does it stinks to high heaven! If any obvious fuel smell is detected, you have a leak.

Proper preparation of fuel seals should be done before the chance of a leak is even created. Using fuel safe gasket material such as copper based sealants in combination with Teflon pipe thread tape is the best way to assure a good fuel system seal. Wrap the connection threads with Teflon tape going the opposite way you intend to thread (so that it stays on the threads!), then take a small dab of copper sealant on your finger and push it into the threads. Leaving a moderate coat, just enough to fill the threads, extract just slightly more gasket sealer onto the threading towards the rear to provide yet another barrier against the leaks. Let the system set for 24 hours to ensure a proper seal, and then continue with the pressure testing. This time, there shouldn't be any leaks; it's physically impossible.

Video content: Honda Civic garage fire!


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Source: Tampa Sports Car Examiner