subject: Biannual Replacements In Car [print this page] Modern cars are getting smarter are more complex but need less frequent service. Whether your car is 2 or 2S years old, some parts and fluids would still need to be replaced. These parts include some spark plugs, filters, emission-control components, ignition wiring and parts. Fluids include and wheel-bearing lubricants, transmission and differential. One can learn to replace them and save some money.
Replacing Radiator Coolant, Cap and Hoses
Follow this simple guide to replace these parts:
First, remove the radiator cap and drain the coolant. Also drain the coolant reservoir if possible. The cars heater might also contain a drain plug. Be sure to have a container to collect the draining coolant. Use fresh water and a radiator cleaner to flush the radiator system. Then attach a garden hose and circulate fresh water through the system under pressure. Check the condition of the radiator hoses by squeezing them. They have to be replaced if they are soft. Hoses are usually cheap when they are replaced.
For replacing the coolant, make sure that all the drain plugs are tightened. Before adding the coolant to the radiator, open the cars heater temperature control to the maximum heat position. When the radiator is full of coolant, start the car and let it warm up with the radiator cap off. When the upper radiator hose gets warm, turn off the engine and let it cool. Now add more coolant fill the radiator as needed. Use a new radiator pressure cap to replace the old one. Again start the engine and let it warm and inspect the radiator, engine block drain plugs and heater core for leaks and reservoir for any leaks. Dispose the old coolant properly because it is poisonous.
Replacing the Fuel Filter
For replacing the fuel filter, follow this guide:
Locate the fuel filter, remove it. In-line fuel filters can be removed by hand. Fuel filters that are installed on the carburetor or fuel pump require wrench for removing it. Now replace the fuel filter. A replacement fuel filter can be found at a good auto dealer store. Make sure that the clamps are in good shape. Replace them as needed.
Replacing Other Ignition Parts
For replacing other ignition parts, follow this guide:
First, identify the type of ignition system that needs replacement. The service manual will come in handy. A computerized ignition might not need anything. Breaker-less ignition systems need new rotor and cap and sometimes other components. De-assemble the ignition for replacing the parts. This means first removing the distributor cap. First align the old and new caps side by side with the mark below both caps. Then remove one spark plug wire and place it on the new cap in the same position as it was on the old one. Repeat this process for all spark plug wires and coil wire.
For replacing the distributor rotor, remove the distributor cap. Lift the old rotor from the distributor. Make sure the new rotor and the old one is the same size and shape. Install it by matching the notch and the key.
For replacing the condenser and contact points on a breaker-point distributor, consult the car service manual. Rotate the engine until the distributor shaft corners push the contact points open to a specific gap. The old contact points can now be replaced and adjusted. For replacing parts in a computerized ignition or breaker-less distributor, follow the recommendations of manufacturer as there are too many variations.
