My 1987 740 GL is in fine condition, with very little rust anywhere, but the one problem which I suspect MAY be caused by rust is a constantly wet driver's side footwell in wet weather. I've looked at all the obvious places, but I'm stumped. Anyone have any ideas?

Sven

 

Maybe windsheild leaking?

 

The leak is most likely from the area in the left side footwell, and it's easy "do it yourself" repair. Take out the plastic cover in the footwell (the one to the left of the hood release), move the insulation aside, if it tears it's no big deal. There will be a flap door type cap which needs to be eitherpopped out and siliconed back into place, or just run a bead of the silicone around the opening without taking the cap out. It's sealed from the factory (it's for footwell ventilation in other world markets),and the sealant dries out and lets water in.

 

I don't think so, Tech. It's a fairly recently fitted screen and I watched the fitter very carefully bonding it in. I wondered whether there are perhaps any known rust-prone areas in the scuttle or footwell?

Sven

 

Apologies! Not Tech, of course, but tedv!

Sven

 

ok, but i don't think there's anything wrong with the windscreen either...

 

I only suggested it because I have seen them leak before. Also even though it was just installed I wouldn't rule it all the way out. There might have been a bubble in the sealer and not it allows the water in.

But the only real way to find out is to remove some panels under the dash and by the side vent and soak the car with water and watch for it to come inside. Then follow it back and see where it is leaking from.

 

Many thanks Tech and tedv, I'll check both areas and let you know how I fared.

Regards,
Sven,

 

Hi tedv, you were spot-on re the footwell air-vent. I removed the plastic cover as you suggested and there were some telltale water streaks below the outer rim of the plastic vent-fitting. Running my finger along the base and edges of this fitting, I could feel there was no seal between it and the bodywork. A quick bead of sealer and now I have a dry footwell, no matter what the weather.

Top tip. Many thanks again.

Kind regards,
Sven.