Practical Advice on Snow Tires
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen]Ron Haugen
For those of you out there trying to decide whether or not to buy a snow tire for the winter season, there are some things to keep in mind. Before deciding to keep on your all weather tires, there are certain safety issues to keep in mind. There is a good reason why snow tires have become so popular over the years. When your safety is at risk, you can never be too careful.
It is recommended you use snow tires rather than all weather tires when it snows. This is because of the material snow tires are made out of. The rubber on the tires are softer and the pattern is designed to grab the snow better. This will keep you from slipping and keep you on the road. All weather tires do not do as good of a job of this. They are more designed to stand up to heavy rain by whisking it away from the center of the tire. Snow is not going anywhere and needs to be latched on to by something which is not as hard as your all weather tires.
Some people will try to save money by only replacing two of the four tires with show tires. This is a mistake as you will actually be putting yourself at even more risk. Putting snow tires on the wheels which power the car will help you to gain momentum, but without tires that grip on your steering wheels, you will just be plowing straight forward. If you hit a turn, or any kind of slope in the road, your chances of landing in a ditch escalate dramatically. This is why it is recommended you put snow tires on all four wheels. You will be able to stop, start, turn, and do all the wonderful things you have come to expect from a car these days.
For those of you who hate having to remount new tires at the end of the snow, consider an alternative. By having two sets of wheels, you can have two sets of tires mounted. This will allow you to be able to simply replace the wheels when the seasons change rather than having to go through the process of having a new tire mounted on the wheel. Those who buy special rims for their car might consider keeping the old wheels and using those for the winter tires. After all, the snow does not do any favors for fancy wheels. This will help make a distinction between your summer and winter gear.
Procrastinators need to pay attention. Because of the soft rubber the snow tires are made out of, if you do not switch back to regular tires, you will regret it. Two things will happen, you will get annoyed by the loud noise, and you will wear down the tires quickly. Good snow tires can last more than one season if properly cared for. The soft rubber will grind down against the asphalt as you will hear every day when you drive. The louder noise from the tires should act as your reminder that it is time to change back to your summer tires.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to [http://www.westsideautopros.com]http://www.westsideautopros.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen http://EzineArticles.com/?Practical-Advice-on-Snow-Tires&id=3355627
Thursday, December 17, 2009
What You Need to Know About Transmission Fluid Changes
What You Need to Know About Transmission Fluid Changes
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen]Ron Haugen
The transmission fluid is a very important part of your engine. Without the proper levels of transmission fluid in your car, you will experience all kinds of problems. Additionally, if the transmission fluid is not changed periodically, you will experience problems. Some people have come to believe that transmission fluid is something that never needs to be replaced. While it does not need to be changed as often as oil does, it is still very important to check and maintain clean fluids in your car.
The schedule by which to change your transmission fluid will differ between manual and automatic transmissions. Every 30,000 miles is a very good suggestion for all drivers regardless of whether they own an automatic, or manual. Those who are heavy manual transmission drivers are suggested to get a change every 15,000 miles. Intervals for automatic cars goes up as high as 100,000 miles between changes. There are reasons why you would want to change the transmission fluid more often than that. Because of the long length of this kind of fluid in automatic cars, some believe it never needs to be changed. This is incorrect and can lead to costly repairs.
The problem that you will run into with it is the build-up of metal particles. These particles will float through your engine and build up in different components causing you other kinds of problems. The money you saved on not changing the transmission fluid will seem like a drop in the bucket compared with the price of replacing the entire transmission later on. This can be avoided by simply changing the fluid regularly. Keep in mind, automatic transmissions run hotter than a manual does. For this reason, transmission fluid can actually be broken down over time. This will cause the fluid to not lubricate as well which will lead to mechanical problems.
Those thinking about changing their own transmission fluid may want to reconsider as it is not as simple as an oil change. With regular oil, you can utilize gravity to easily drain the car of any oil it contains. It is much more viscous and requires a transmission flusher to get everything out. It is recommended to bring in your car to get this kind of fluid change in order to make sure all metal shavings in the old fluid will be washed away. Not removing all of the fluid can cause you just as many problems as if you did nothing.
Those looking to check the levels between maintenance visits simply need to know what they are looking for. Keep in mind, most manual engines will not come with a dipstick to help you check the fluid level. Those with an automatic transmission will want to either have their mechanic point out the right dipstick, or check the owner's manual. Many will confuse the crankcase dipstick with that of the transmission. Keep in mind, generally the only reason why the fluid level will be low is if there is a leak. If you check your level and it is low, you need to get your mechanic to check out the transmission right away.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to [http://www.westsideautopros.com]http://www.westsideautopros.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen http://EzineArticles.com/?What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Transmission-Fluid-Changes&id=3355604
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen]Ron Haugen
The transmission fluid is a very important part of your engine. Without the proper levels of transmission fluid in your car, you will experience all kinds of problems. Additionally, if the transmission fluid is not changed periodically, you will experience problems. Some people have come to believe that transmission fluid is something that never needs to be replaced. While it does not need to be changed as often as oil does, it is still very important to check and maintain clean fluids in your car.
The schedule by which to change your transmission fluid will differ between manual and automatic transmissions. Every 30,000 miles is a very good suggestion for all drivers regardless of whether they own an automatic, or manual. Those who are heavy manual transmission drivers are suggested to get a change every 15,000 miles. Intervals for automatic cars goes up as high as 100,000 miles between changes. There are reasons why you would want to change the transmission fluid more often than that. Because of the long length of this kind of fluid in automatic cars, some believe it never needs to be changed. This is incorrect and can lead to costly repairs.
The problem that you will run into with it is the build-up of metal particles. These particles will float through your engine and build up in different components causing you other kinds of problems. The money you saved on not changing the transmission fluid will seem like a drop in the bucket compared with the price of replacing the entire transmission later on. This can be avoided by simply changing the fluid regularly. Keep in mind, automatic transmissions run hotter than a manual does. For this reason, transmission fluid can actually be broken down over time. This will cause the fluid to not lubricate as well which will lead to mechanical problems.
Those thinking about changing their own transmission fluid may want to reconsider as it is not as simple as an oil change. With regular oil, you can utilize gravity to easily drain the car of any oil it contains. It is much more viscous and requires a transmission flusher to get everything out. It is recommended to bring in your car to get this kind of fluid change in order to make sure all metal shavings in the old fluid will be washed away. Not removing all of the fluid can cause you just as many problems as if you did nothing.
Those looking to check the levels between maintenance visits simply need to know what they are looking for. Keep in mind, most manual engines will not come with a dipstick to help you check the fluid level. Those with an automatic transmission will want to either have their mechanic point out the right dipstick, or check the owner's manual. Many will confuse the crankcase dipstick with that of the transmission. Keep in mind, generally the only reason why the fluid level will be low is if there is a leak. If you check your level and it is low, you need to get your mechanic to check out the transmission right away.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to [http://www.westsideautopros.com]http://www.westsideautopros.com.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen http://EzineArticles.com/?What-You-Need-to-Know-About-Transmission-Fluid-Changes&id=3355604
Sunday, November 22, 2009
Car Battery Tips For Every Owner
Car Battery Tips For Every Owner
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen]Ron Haugen
The car battery is one of the essential components of a car most drivers take for granted. Every time you turn the ignition, you expect that the battery will work and help you start your car. Little to no thought is put into checking or maintaining the battery until there is a problem. Luckily any good maintenance shop will handle checking and maintaining your battery, but there are some things you can look out for. This will help to make sure you do not get stranded somewhere with a dead battery.
First, here is a little bit of information about the battery itself. The average car battery is a 12 volt, lead-acid battery. It works off of the very simple principle of converting chemicals into electricity. The chemical in question is a electrolyte in an ionic bath. The chemical is split into six cells which use plates to transfer two volts of power each. This power is then transferred through connective wires to any parts of the car which rely on it for power. Generally, the battery is encased in a plastic mold to protect you from any danger of electric shock when handling it. This also acts as a barrier to collect battery acid if a problem should occur.
The reason you do not have to replace your car battery like you do in a child's toy is because it recharges itself. By maintaining a properly working alternator and battery, you can go for a long time without having to replace the battery. Any problems you have with electrical power could either be caused from a problem with the battery itself, or with the system involved in recharging it. The quick fix is a jump start. You can move on with diagnosing your problem from there. If a jump start gets you where you need to go without any electrical; issues, your problem is with the battery, not your alternator. It is recommended that any time you notice a problem with the electrical system you take it in right away for a diagnosis.
For those with a standard car battery, here are some tips to extend it's life. Checking the water level is a very easy way to make sure your battery is operating properly. It should be checked every few months and should come up just to the bottom of the refill hole. When refilling, make sure you only use distilled water. This protects from corrosion. Make sure you do not overfill the battery. No matter what kind of battery you have, you should clean the connections periodically with a wire brush to maintain a good flow. Make sure you are gentle with the wires when disconnecting as you may shear the wire. Make sure the connector is secure, but not overtightened. Coating the connector with high temperature grease will help reduce corrosion and rust.
Remember that proper maintenance of your car battery should only serve as peace of mind. Nothing should replace bringing your car in to a trained professional to look at periodically. Full inspections will look over not only the battery, but the entire electrical system for any problems. These tips should only be used to give you a more secure feeling when you are far from home, or even at the store.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen http://EzineArticles.com/?Car-Battery-Tips-For-Every-Owner&id=3098575
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen]Ron Haugen
The car battery is one of the essential components of a car most drivers take for granted. Every time you turn the ignition, you expect that the battery will work and help you start your car. Little to no thought is put into checking or maintaining the battery until there is a problem. Luckily any good maintenance shop will handle checking and maintaining your battery, but there are some things you can look out for. This will help to make sure you do not get stranded somewhere with a dead battery.
First, here is a little bit of information about the battery itself. The average car battery is a 12 volt, lead-acid battery. It works off of the very simple principle of converting chemicals into electricity. The chemical in question is a electrolyte in an ionic bath. The chemical is split into six cells which use plates to transfer two volts of power each. This power is then transferred through connective wires to any parts of the car which rely on it for power. Generally, the battery is encased in a plastic mold to protect you from any danger of electric shock when handling it. This also acts as a barrier to collect battery acid if a problem should occur.
The reason you do not have to replace your car battery like you do in a child's toy is because it recharges itself. By maintaining a properly working alternator and battery, you can go for a long time without having to replace the battery. Any problems you have with electrical power could either be caused from a problem with the battery itself, or with the system involved in recharging it. The quick fix is a jump start. You can move on with diagnosing your problem from there. If a jump start gets you where you need to go without any electrical; issues, your problem is with the battery, not your alternator. It is recommended that any time you notice a problem with the electrical system you take it in right away for a diagnosis.
For those with a standard car battery, here are some tips to extend it's life. Checking the water level is a very easy way to make sure your battery is operating properly. It should be checked every few months and should come up just to the bottom of the refill hole. When refilling, make sure you only use distilled water. This protects from corrosion. Make sure you do not overfill the battery. No matter what kind of battery you have, you should clean the connections periodically with a wire brush to maintain a good flow. Make sure you are gentle with the wires when disconnecting as you may shear the wire. Make sure the connector is secure, but not overtightened. Coating the connector with high temperature grease will help reduce corrosion and rust.
Remember that proper maintenance of your car battery should only serve as peace of mind. Nothing should replace bringing your car in to a trained professional to look at periodically. Full inspections will look over not only the battery, but the entire electrical system for any problems. These tips should only be used to give you a more secure feeling when you are far from home, or even at the store.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen http://EzineArticles.com/?Car-Battery-Tips-For-Every-Owner&id=3098575
Using Coolant to Keep Your Engine Cool
Using Coolant to Keep Your Engine Cool
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen]Ron Haugen
Coolant is one of the many different fluids an engine relies on for proper performance. Part of any routine maintenance should be to have this fluid checked. Maintaining the proper levels will enable your engine to run properly and avoid major repair costs in the future. The price of coolant and flushing your system is nothing compared to what you will face with an overheated engine. It is important that you not only not what the fluid does, but what you need to do to help your remain healthy.
Whether in the summer or winter, your engine is operating under extreme temperatures. Coolant is the fluid which helps to regulate the heat of the engine. This happens by the fluid absorbing the heat and dissipating it in one of two different ways. The radiator is the most common way to get rid of the excess heat from your engine. This method is more common in the summer time as in the winter the excess heat will be used in order to warm the passenger compartment. Cool air from outside will absorb the heat from the fluid and transfer it to the air in the passenger compartment.
Checking your coolant level is very easy to do. All you have to do is locate the refill container in your engine. This is usually a transparent plastic container. If you have trouble finding it, consult either your mechanic or your owner's manual. When judging the right amount of coolant to have in your car, keep in mind the temperature of the engine. If the engine is hot, the coolant will take up more space. So, if you check the level when the engine is hot, it should be at, or just below the "max" line. If the engine is cool, it should be at or just above the "minimum", or "fill" line. The exact terminology used will depend on your car.
Many people do not have their coolant system flushed and instead opt to add coolant as needed. This is a mistake because coolant picks up deposits over time. It will begin to break down and not work properly. Not only will it not cool your engine properly, it will not inhibit rust and corrosion. One of the main reasons why every mechanic will tell you not to use plain water is because coolant is far superior in being able to cool the engine and because of it's rust inhibitors. Flushing out your system will get rid of any old coolant and allow you to start fresh with pristine coolant offering maximum protection.
A very common mistake is to ignore coolant during the winter. Remember, being cold outside will not prevent your engine from overheating. The engine is in an enclosed area which traps heat. If there is not a proper cooling system in place, you can very easily overheat your engine and crack your block. Simple maintenance from your mechanic will help to keep your engine working properly in all seasons.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen http://EzineArticles.com/?Using-Coolant-to-Keep-Your-Engine-Cool&id=3221339
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen]Ron Haugen
Coolant is one of the many different fluids an engine relies on for proper performance. Part of any routine maintenance should be to have this fluid checked. Maintaining the proper levels will enable your engine to run properly and avoid major repair costs in the future. The price of coolant and flushing your system is nothing compared to what you will face with an overheated engine. It is important that you not only not what the fluid does, but what you need to do to help your remain healthy.
Whether in the summer or winter, your engine is operating under extreme temperatures. Coolant is the fluid which helps to regulate the heat of the engine. This happens by the fluid absorbing the heat and dissipating it in one of two different ways. The radiator is the most common way to get rid of the excess heat from your engine. This method is more common in the summer time as in the winter the excess heat will be used in order to warm the passenger compartment. Cool air from outside will absorb the heat from the fluid and transfer it to the air in the passenger compartment.
Checking your coolant level is very easy to do. All you have to do is locate the refill container in your engine. This is usually a transparent plastic container. If you have trouble finding it, consult either your mechanic or your owner's manual. When judging the right amount of coolant to have in your car, keep in mind the temperature of the engine. If the engine is hot, the coolant will take up more space. So, if you check the level when the engine is hot, it should be at, or just below the "max" line. If the engine is cool, it should be at or just above the "minimum", or "fill" line. The exact terminology used will depend on your car.
Many people do not have their coolant system flushed and instead opt to add coolant as needed. This is a mistake because coolant picks up deposits over time. It will begin to break down and not work properly. Not only will it not cool your engine properly, it will not inhibit rust and corrosion. One of the main reasons why every mechanic will tell you not to use plain water is because coolant is far superior in being able to cool the engine and because of it's rust inhibitors. Flushing out your system will get rid of any old coolant and allow you to start fresh with pristine coolant offering maximum protection.
A very common mistake is to ignore coolant during the winter. Remember, being cold outside will not prevent your engine from overheating. The engine is in an enclosed area which traps heat. If there is not a proper cooling system in place, you can very easily overheat your engine and crack your block. Simple maintenance from your mechanic will help to keep your engine working properly in all seasons.
If you are looking for honest advice, prioritized repairs, options on repairs, maximized fuel economy, and a good feeling with who you are doing business with go to http://www.westsideautopros.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Ron_Haugen http://EzineArticles.com/?Using-Coolant-to-Keep-Your-Engine-Cool&id=3221339
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