subject: Automotive Repair Tips To Consider [print this page] Doing your own repairs can be rewardingDoing your own repairs can be rewarding. Often times, it is a matter of necessity. There are many jobs that the average person can successfully perform. You might wish to consider these automotive repair tips, to save future headaches.
Changing oil
Many newer cars have drain plugs with crush gaskets. This is designed to keep them from leaking. However, they are not meant to be reused. If so, you will have a thinner gasket. To keep it from leaking, you may over tighten the drain plug. This may strip out the threads and ruin the oil pan. It is best to replace the drain plug and gasket with each oil change. You may need to buy these parts at the dealer.
Cheap Brakes
Do not buy the cheapest brake shoes or pads. If you have a choice, get the best. The better ones usually have the best warranty and stopping power. Your safety is too important to use cheap brake parts.
Bonded brakes
You may have the choice between bonded and riveted linings. Bonded are much thinner and easier to install. Riveted linings require a thicker pad for the same amount of lining. This is due to the rivet head. You have to compress your calipers much farther with riveted lining. This increases the chance for damage.
New wheel cylinders
Are you replacing rear brake shoes? Replace the wheel cylinders, also. New wheel cylinders do not cost a lot of money. New brake shoes are thicker. They place the wheel cylinder piston in a farther back position. If there is any corrosion in the cylinder, it will tear the rubber seals. This will also ruin your new brake linings.
Replacing brake hardware
Whether pads or shoes, always replace the brake hardware. These clips and springs get a lot of wear and heat. They may not look it, but they are weakened.
Replacing timing belts
Not all cars are created equal when it comes to timing belts. It is vital to know if your car has an interference or non interference motor. If you have an interference motor, you must replace the timing belt at the required intervals. If the belt breaks while running, it will ruin the motor. You may have valves opening into moving pistons. Non interference motors are designed so there is no damage, if the belt breaks. Check with your parts dealer or online to see which type motor that you have.
Trips to the parts store
You can save extra parts store trips by taking in the old parts. This way, you can be sure if you have the right one. You will not have to pay core charges, either.
Conclusion
These automotive repair tips can save time, money, and headaches. Replace the oil plug after each oil change. When doing brake jobs, do not scrimp on the price of the linings. Always buy bonded linings, if possible. Replace the hardware and parts like wheel cylinders, too. Check to see if your car has an interference motor. If so, replace the timing belt at the recommended amount of miles. Otherwise you may need to buy a new motor, if it breaks. When you buy new parts, take the old ones with you. It can save extra trips to the parts store.
