Foul Condition -- Use A Common Disinfectant To Clean Air- Conditioned Odor

Q. The air conditioner in my 1989 Mercury Topaz emits a foul odor. What can I do? - Gene C., Dayton, Ohio

A. Spray Lysol, Listerine, hydrogen peroxide or any disinfectant into the air-conditioner plenum, the vent in front of the windshield that admits air. Raise the hood to avoid damaging the paint. You may repeat this as often as needed, but leave the windows open while you do it.

Q. Water drips from the air-conditioner evaporator and wets the right floor mat in my 1983 Ford. What causes this? - Bill J., Apopka, Fla.

A. A drain hose on the right-front edge of the air-conditioner plenum sometimes becomes plugged. You will find the hose at the right front of the evaporator before the firewall. Remove the debris - the leaves, pine needles and dirt - and then clean the tube.

Q. Does the bumping or banging noise coming from under my 1991 Plymouth Acclaim point to faulty motor mounts? - Harold E., Oviedo, Fla.

A. It's hard to tell without hearing it. It's not likely the motor mounts would fail on a car not yet a year old. I suspect you may have a loose exhaust flange or a loose alternator or air-pump bracket.

Q. Are you aware of any 1991 Eagle Talon Turbos with a noisy second gear shift? It is a standard transmission. The noise is sporadic, especially when cold. - Lloyd G.D., Casselberry, Fla.

A. I have secured reports on several sport cars using the same transmission and find the second gear engagement smooth and quiet if

the clutch is fully depressed. The cold operation requires complete throw-out to avoid noise. High-speed cold shifting on sports cars is not advised until warmup is complete. Engine and turbo life also hinges on proper warmup.

Q. Why does my 1990 Mazda start and run badly in hot weather? In cold weather it is fine. - Bill K., Martinez, Ga.

A. A failed coolant temperature sensor often causes a rich mixture. The mix is too rich for warm-weather driving, but it's necessary for cold starts.

Write to Bill Gordon c/o Car Clinic, Seattle Times Business News Dept., P.O. Box 70, Seattle, WA 98111