Case Study: 1995 Ford Escort
Summary of Fire Investigation

 
   Escort: Investigator Assessments:
  • Broken valve cover above shielded exhaust manifold
  • Fuel likely: Engine oil, coolant
  • Ignition:
     •Hot surface likely
     •Electrical spark possible
  • Initiation: <2 minutes
  • Propagation time: Extinguished within 5 min. w/o spread to interior

 

Fire occurred after collision-related intrusion of a trailer hitch into the engine compartment that caused fracture of the cam cover, radiator, alternator, and some wiring. Fire most likely resulted from ignition of oil or coolant on the hot, shielded exhaust manifold. The engine may have run for a short time after impact, causing additional oil leakage. Power steering fluid, which was released  from the broken plastic reservoir during impact, was a less likely source of fuel. Additional ignition sources include the alternator, spark plug wires, or other electrical wires at the right front of the engine compartment.

 


This photograph of the pickup (struck vehicle) shows the aggressive hitch and stiff bumper that contacted the underriding Escort.