[77newell]

I'm guessing the P-rod failed at the bend that begins the loop around the rubber thingy at the top. If so, the likely cause of the failure is metal fatigue. I noticed that when I changed out my rear HCV that the P-rod was solidly bolted to the lever on the HCV. As the rod moves the lever up and down there is a slight rotation occurring between the rod and the lever. If the rod is solidly attached like mine was the rotation will slightly and repeatedly bend the P-rod which over time could lead to metal fatigue and ultimately breakage.

When I installed the new HCVs I was very careful to tighten the bolt just prior to the point at which the P-rod could easily stop rotating and yet not be loose. I then double-nutted the bolt. I believe that the original tight connection very well might have produced the failure Richard experienced. I was just plain "lucky" that I decided to replace my HCVs before they started leaking. Little did I know that I also prevented repeating Richard's experience. Changing those valves was a real bear with all the access troubles Richard described.

Anyway, this is a possible explanation of what triggered Richard burning rubber in a Newell. If so, it would behoove us all to check that connection and make sure it just loose enough but not too loose. Based upon Richards experience I know I'm going to check my front one before I leave here next week.