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Seeing black flecks? To check hose deterioration,
start a cold engine with the radiator cap off and let it reach operating
temperature. Watch the coolant as it runs through your radiator.
If black specks appear, your hoses probably need to be replaced.
Checking the clutch Start the car in top gear
and with the handbrake on let the clutch out slowly. If the car
stalls, the clutch is okay. If the engine doesn't stall, see your
Repco Auto Repairer.
Gear ‘falls out’? If your car 'falls out' of
gear, especially on a bumpy road, you're going to have to dig deep
into your pockets for the repair job. Book it in with your local
Repco Auto Repairer.
No spark no fuel efficiency Worn spark plugs can
drastically reduce your fuel efficiency. Check for wear and replace
if necessary.
Save the environment Around 13% of our cars produce
approximately half the car pollution. The majority of these are
probably old, and poorly maintained vehicles. Maintaining your car,
maintains the environment, and saves you money in reduced fuel bills.
The car shudders The wheels need balancing if
the steering wheel starts shuddering. At best, it's just the wheels
that need balancing; at worse, your front end needs attention. Wheel
balancing is relatively cheap; front-end work is not. Your Repco
Auto Repairer can provide you with the best advice.
What was that sound and what does it mean? Heavy
knocking noises - big-end bearings worn, need attention. Rattling
or slapping sound when engine's started - slow oil pressure, or
possible worn crankshaft bearings, perhaps incorrect oil filter
or a relief valve, inside the oil pump, sticking. Hissing noise
near carburettor - manifold gasket leak, brake vacuum-servo hose
leaking, air cleaner loose. Chuffing sound under acceleration -
blown exhaust manifold gasket, leaking exhaust pipe, engine oil
filler cap missing. Loud screech when engine starts from cold -
fan belt slipping due to frozen water pump. See your local Repco
Auto Repairer for advice.
Tyre inspection Check for cuts and bulges on
a regular basis. They are visual proof of internal damage and have
the potential to become extremely dangerous.
Fumes from new cars The plastic fittings in most
new cars give off fumes. These fumes can cause a haze on the windows.
Sponge with vinegar, rinse with water and wipe with a dry cloth.
Removing marks on cloth seats First try to absorb
as much as possible. Sponge or spray with dry-cleaning fluid. Apply
warm water and vinegar. Rinse with water. Keep repeating until the
stain is gone. Blot dry.
Removing rego stickers Rather than a razor blade,
rub it with a wad of cottonwool, soaked in nail polish remover,
and the sticker will dissolve., then clean glass with methylated
spirits.
Oil-stain removal Sprinkle the affected area
with cat litter, and then rub the surface with a soft brick. Or
you can first sprinkle dry sand over the stain to absorb as much
oil as possible. Brush off, then wash with detergent. Or try washing
with kerosene. Rinse with a solution of caustic soda, then rinse
very thoroughly to dilute and remove all traces of the caustic solution.
Cleaning the Engine Bay When cleaning engine
bay using steam or water, cover distributor cap with a waterproof
item (ie plastic bag), to prevent the distributor cap cracking or
moisture entering distributor. Engine bay cleaning should only be
done when engine is cool so not to cause damage to high temperature
engine components and risks of personal injury.
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