Sean...Ouch! Sounds like you're on the right track with what may have caused the fire...too much oil on the exhaust side of things is never good.
I've just picked up a "new to me" PS pump to replace my tired old one this weekend. Should fix the --creak-- sound that comes from the front when ever I turn the wheel. The failing pump could have killed my 180sx rack's seals. I'm searching for a place that could rebuild it now.
-Royce