Son in law just received a 1977 240 that he bought on Ebay. We have a couple of questions. Neither of us have experience with a 240 and do not have any service manuals yet. I am deep into restoring a 444 but it is much simpler than this car.

I hope to check it out later this week, but have two questions for now based on my first look at it earlier tonight:

1. When we remove the fuel filler cap it acts as if its under a vacuum - there is a whoosh of air rushing into the gas tank. To me it is as if the tank were not vented or the vents are plugged. There are rubber hoses that look intact that we have not traced but which the owner's manual says go to an evaporative control system under the hood. Any suggestions on trouble shooting this? I cannot imagine its normal.

2. The brake warning light is on continuously. The brakes work fine and the fluid level looks ok in the master cylinder. What typically activates this light?

Keith W.
444 Project - Moline, IL

1) Whooshing is normal.

2)http://www.brickboard.com/FAQ/700-900/Brakes.htm#BrakeLightOnAfterBleeding
240 is similar.

Thanks for the info. I never would have thought that whooshing was normal.

I was not aware of the 700/900 FAQ list. That is quite a resource. I was also able to find some info on the brake warning light in the 240 archives. My plans include checking the brakes and replacing the brake fluid as part of the getting acquainted process. So I will check that valve/switch.

Just starting the learning curve on this car and plan to get at later in the week. It has maybe a dozen things that need attention - door latches, lights, gauges, corrosion around the windshield and rear window. But surprisingly it seems to run and drive very well.

I'm sure there will be a lot to learn.

Keith W.
444 Project Moline, IL

Oh they are fun cars mine is an 82 and its like taking care of a child, you have to keep a close eye on them or they get hurt and cost you lots of money:) (Not trying to make light of a child getting hurt) just using it as metaphore.