usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog

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New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/replace-springs-on-pickup/

How Often Should You Replace Springs on a Pickup?

Our trucks are built to take a lot of punishment, but if your back bumper starts dragging in the dirt, or you start feeling every bump in the road in your lumbar vertebra, it might be time to change your springs.

It’s always a good idea to get ahead of these problems though, by changing out your springs regularly, especially if you do a lot of off-roading or haul a lot of heavy loads. How often should you be replacing your springs on a pickup?

Signs of Spring Failure?

Most passenger cars have spring/strut assemblies on the front wheels, and shocks in the rear. Some pickup trucks will have leaf springs instead of shocks in the rear, but the signs of suspension failure are very similar whether the vehicle has springs or shocks installed. These signs include:

The car or truck will lean to one side. This usually indicates that a single spring or shock failed.

The car will be visibly lower to the ground. This could happen on the front of the car, the rear or both. In trucks, especially those that frequently carry heavy loads, this often happens in the rear.

The car will stop absorbing bumps. You’ll start feeling every bump and irregularity in the road surface, making driving the car or truck very uncomfortable.

If you start to notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to start inspecting your suspension. You may notice visible symptoms of failure — broken springs, warped shocks or rusty struts — but not all problems are visible. One good way to test it is to press hard on each corner of the car or truck. If it continues to bounce after you’ve released it, your shocks, struts or springs probably need to be replaced.

In most vehicles, you may never need to replace the suspension parts — some people have gone the entire life of their car without having to replace these parts. However, if they start to fail, replacing them is the only option.

How to Replace Your Springs

In pickup trucks, leaf springs are the most common failure point for suspension. Thankfully , replacing them is simple and can often be done in the comfort of your own driveway.

Start by prepping the area around the springs. You will need to do this a few days before you start work to ensure that you can easily remove all the nuts and bolts that hold the springs in place.

Next, lift the truck. If you can use a lift, this makes it easier but you can still easily replace your springs with a jack and some stands.

The next step is to remove the base plate, lift the axle slightly and remove the leaf spring. It’s pretty simple, and installing the new springs is just as easy — reverse the steps and bolt everything back into place. Torque the bolts in place, and you’re good to go.

Take Time to Fix Your Car

Don’t drive around in a truck or car that’s sagging to the ground. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it’s also not good for the rest of your suspension. Take the time to inspect your springs and if they appear to be failing, take the time to replace them. It won’t take you more than an afternoon, and you’ll be amazed at the difference that it makes in how your truck handles both on the road and off.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/replace-springs-on-pickup/

How Often Should You Replace Springs on a Pickup?

Our trucks are built to take a lot of punishment, but if your back bumper starts dragging in the dirt, or you start feeling every bump in the road in your lumbar vertebra, it might be time to change your springs.

It’s always a good idea to get ahead of these problems though, by changing out your springs regularly, especially if you do a lot of off-roading or haul a lot of heavy loads. How often should you be replacing your springs on a pickup?

Signs of Spring Failure?

Most passenger cars have spring/strut assemblies on the front wheels, and shocks in the rear. Some pickup trucks will have leaf springs instead of shocks in the rear, but the signs of suspension failure are very similar whether the vehicle has springs or shocks installed. These signs include:

The car or truck will lean to one side. This usually indicates that a single spring or shock failed.

The car will be visibly lower to the ground. This could happen on the front of the car, the rear or both. In trucks, especially those that frequently carry heavy loads, this often happens in the rear.

The car will stop absorbing bumps. You’ll start feeling every bump and irregularity in the road surface, making driving the car or truck very uncomfortable.

If you start to notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to start inspecting your suspension. You may notice visible symptoms of failure — broken springs, warped shocks or rusty struts — but not all problems are visible. One good way to test it is to press hard on each corner of the car or truck. If it continues to bounce after you’ve released it, your shocks, struts or springs probably need to be replaced.

In most vehicles, you may never need to replace the suspension parts — some people have gone the entire life of their car without having to replace these parts. However, if they start to fail, replacing them is the only option.

How to Replace Your Springs

In pickup trucks, leaf springs are the most common failure point for suspension. Thankfully , replacing them is simple and can often be done in the comfort of your own driveway.

Start by prepping the area around the springs. You will need to do this a few days before you start work to ensure that you can easily remove all the nuts and bolts that hold the springs in place.

Next, lift the truck. If you can use a lift, this makes it easier but you can still easily replace your springs with a jack and some stands.

The next step is to remove the base plate, lift the axle slightly and remove the leaf spring. It’s pretty simple, and installing the new springs is just as easy — reverse the steps and bolt everything back into place. Torque the bolts in place, and you’re good to go.

Take Time to Fix Your Car

Don’t drive around in a truck or car that’s sagging to the ground. Not only is it uncomfortable, but it’s also not good for the rest of your suspension. Take the time to inspect your springs and if they appear to be failing, take the time to replace them. It won’t take you more than an afternoon, and you’ll be amazed at the difference that it makes in how your truck handles both on the road and off.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/common-repairs-semi-trucks/

Most Common Repairs for Semi Trucks

Semi trucks might not seem like they break down often, but they need maintenance and repair equally as much as every other car or truck on the road. What are the most common repairs needed for semi trucks and what can you do to reduce your chances of needing expensive repairs?

Tire Problems

When you’ve got 18 tires, having one of them fail can be enough to pull you off to the side of the road — and none of us have jacks strong enough to lift up one of those enormous trailers. A tire call can be expensive too — chances are you’ll have to get the truck towed, after bringing in a new cabin to finish the run.

Tire problems can be prevented with a thorough pre-trip inspection. Take the time to check the PSI on all your tires, look for uneven wear, check tread depth and be on the lookout for bulges or cuts in the sidewall of each tire that could burst under load.

Overheating

Coolant is an essential part of any engine — and there are increased numbers of possible failure points in any large engine. While traditional antifreeze might work well in passenger cars, in a semi truck it has to be replaced more often and has to be carefully monitored to ensure it works efficiently.

To save money in the long run and make sure your trucks run efficiently, consider switching to carboxylate-based coolants. These don’t break down as quickly, don’t need replacement as often and can even help to prevent corrosion in your truck’s coolant system.

Change the Oil

Everyone knows how important it is to change the oil in any vehicle, no matter its size, but this basic bit of preventative maintenance is often neglected in large trucks. Just because you don’t have to change your oil every 3,000 miles doesn’t mean you should skimp on your oil changes.

While we’re on the subject, you should also keep an eye out for oil leaks. Leaking oil could result in too much friction in the engine, leading to your entire truck breaking down. This, in turn, leads to an expensive tow and an even more expensive repair bill. All of that could be prevented by simply keeping up with your oil changes.

Your oil change frequency will depend on the age of your truck, the type of oil you use and the condition of your engine. Newer engines, with high-quality synthetic oil, can go up to 50,000 miles between oil changes, where older engines might need an oil change by the 15,000-mile mark.

Inspect, Inspect, Inspect

When it comes down to it, inspections are your best weapon when it comes to keeping your trucks running well and on the road. Take the time to perform thorough inspections of each vehicle before and after each trip. It might seem like it eats up a lot of time that you could otherwise spend on the road, but every minute you spend inspecting your vehicles helps to reduce the chance they might break down on the side of a secluded highway somewhere.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/common-repairs-semi-trucks/

Most Common Repairs for Semi Trucks

Semi trucks might not seem like they break down often, but they need maintenance and repair equally as much as every other car or truck on the road. What are the most common repairs needed for semi trucks and what can you do to reduce your chances of needing expensive repairs?

Tire Problems

When you’ve got 18 tires, having one of them fail can be enough to pull you off to the side of the road — and none of us have jacks strong enough to lift up one of those enormous trailers. A tire call can be expensive too — chances are you’ll have to get the truck towed, after bringing in a new cabin to finish the run.

Tire problems can be prevented with a thorough pre-trip inspection. Take the time to check the PSI on all your tires, look for uneven wear, check tread depth and be on the lookout for bulges or cuts in the sidewall of each tire that could burst under load.

Overheating

Coolant is an essential part of any engine — and there are increased numbers of possible failure points in any large engine. While traditional antifreeze might work well in passenger cars, in a semi truck it has to be replaced more often and has to be carefully monitored to ensure it works efficiently.

To save money in the long run and make sure your trucks run efficiently, consider switching to carboxylate-based coolants. These don’t break down as quickly, don’t need replacement as often and can even help to prevent corrosion in your truck’s coolant system.

Change the Oil

Everyone knows how important it is to change the oil in any vehicle, no matter its size, but this basic bit of preventative maintenance is often neglected in large trucks. Just because you don’t have to change your oil every 3,000 miles doesn’t mean you should skimp on your oil changes.

While we’re on the subject, you should also keep an eye out for oil leaks. Leaking oil could result in too much friction in the engine, leading to your entire truck breaking down. This, in turn, leads to an expensive tow and an even more expensive repair bill. All of that could be prevented by simply keeping up with your oil changes.

Your oil change frequency will depend on the age of your truck, the type of oil you use and the condition of your engine. Newer engines, with high-quality synthetic oil, can go up to 50,000 miles between oil changes, where older engines might need an oil change by the 15,000-mile mark.

Inspect, Inspect, Inspect

When it comes down to it, inspections are your best weapon when it comes to keeping your trucks running well and on the road. Take the time to perform thorough inspections of each vehicle before and after each trip. It might seem like it eats up a lot of time that you could otherwise spend on the road, but every minute you spend inspecting your vehicles helps to reduce the chance they might break down on the side of a secluded highway somewhere.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/auto-body-shop-ventilation/

Installing Proper Ventilation in Your Auto Body Shop

When people plan long distance road trips, they take time to make sure their cars are in proper traveling condition to ensure they will be safe and the car won’t break down during the journey. They trust their mechanic to take care of the car and keep it running smoothly. As a shop owner, it is your responsibility to make sure the indoor environment is safe for you, your crew and the people who trust you with their vehicles.

When you work in an auto body shop, you are going to be surrounded by many things that can be hazardous. One thing that some fail to consider, and really should, are the fumes that are going to be trapped inside the shop unless there is proper ventilation. The health and well-being of you and any employees you have or even your customers can be based on whether there is good airflow throughout the shop.

Having the right type of ventilation in your shop is important and will depend on the types of fumes you might have as well as your overall budget for ventilating the garage. There are quite a few types of contaminants that need to be vented from an auto body shop. These include:

Barium

Carbon Monoxide

Fluorine

Lead

Silicon

Exhaust

Fumes may come from:

Airborne metal particles

Gases and other fuels

Heat

Burned oil

Particles from grinding metal (disc brake grinding)

Polishing machines

Contaminants freely flow through the air in an auto body shop and they must be removed so the air that circulates is clean to breathe. Whether you work alone, or you have others working in the garage, the ability to breathe clean air is a necessity for overall health and safety.

Types of Auto Body Shop Ventilation

From small shops to large, there are numerous ways to properly ventilate things.

Air Filtration Systems–  If you have ever been inside a large nightclub or other building where people may be smoking cigarettes, you might have noticed a large box hanging from the center of the room. While some may mistake these as speakers, they are really air filtration systems that are placed in the middle of the ceiling where they can better pull smoke fumes up and away from the crowd. Similar air filtration systems can be found in auto body shops and they work by filtering the air to clean it. They can be used alone but it is recommended to use them along with fans or an exhaust system.

Exhaust Systems– Exhaust systems in an auto body shop are geared to helping rid the shop of excess fumes and unlike fans, they can usually remove more contaminants and help filter in safe air to breathe. You can work with a roofing contractor to have large exhaust systems installed on the roof or even purchase smaller standalone exhaust systems that are portable. Many systems connect to the HVAC system and will automatically pull all exhaust fumes and other contaminants and pull them outside of the shop.

Floor Fans– If you use a fan in the shop, make sure it is a large size fan that will be sure to blow the air outdoors and away from you and others in the building. Fans are not meant to be used in large shops as the only type of ventilation and should only be used to help keep the air clean and flowing as needed. There are many types of fans that you can choose from to find the one best for your shop.

Paint Ventilation– If your auto body shop paints vehicles, it is imperative to have proper paint ventilation installed. Not only can paint fumes be hazardous to your health, but they are also a hazard to your shop as they are flammable. It’s a good idea to have an exhaust system and use portable floor fans or a drive belt fan to keep fumes to a minimum when painting in a garage.

Ventilation in an auto body shop is one of the most important things to consider for the overall health and well-being of anyone who must spend time inside. Proper ventilation can be handled with portable units or with large, rooftop installations to meet the needs of the shop. To ensure everyone is breathing freely and that your shop is up to the local building code requirements, be sure to invest in a good ventilation system and keep your ship air clean and hazard free.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/road-trip-car-broke-down/

Road Trip Adventure: My Car Broke Down!

With the busy summer travel season approaching, it’s the perfect time to plan out your road trip too. You may travel to another county or go across the country depending on your preference. But regardless of how long or short, your route is, it’s essential to keep up with your car’s maintenance to make your road trip a memorable adventure.

Here, you will learn everything about how you can plan and execute an unforgettable road trip. From packing to your car maintenance, this article covers it all. It also tells you what happens if you neglect these things.

So to avoid struggle, plan ahead and take all the following points into consideration. Let’s start with my adventure story!

The Technical Side

 A detailed mechanical check-over is essential even if your car is relatively new. The following are some essential measures on the technical side that you must take to avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere.

The following are some reminders to help you prepare a checklist before you set out on your road journey.

Engine Oil

It’s important to check the date you are due for an oil change. If it falls on the same dates as your road trip, better get it changed before time. Always check your oil levels before hitting the road. Your engine deserves more than a tank full of gunky old oil.

Consider using a synthetic oil this time – especially if you are going on a long-distance road trip. Using a reliable, synthetic oil can offer you extra thermal protection if you are driving in hot weather and keep your engine from breaking down. Schedule your car for all necessary services including tune-ups and oil changes.

Inspect Your Car for Major Repairs

Carry out this step at least 2-3 weeks before your road trip. Get the service scheduled for any major repairs or services your car needs. Do an inspection on your own or get it checked by a professional. Take ample of time to identify and fix such problems if you don’t want them to pop up when you are in the mid of your road trip.

Check Other Fluids

It’s not only the engine oil you need to care about. Other oil reservoirs need to be checked before you embark on your road trip.

The drive axle and transmission of your car have separate lubricant supplies too. See if you need to get it changed. You can take your vehicle to a service shop to get this job done.

Belts

Check the friction surface of the engine belts too. If they show signs of damage like cracks and tears or exposure of fiber cords, you might want to think about replacing them. If you have a new car, all you need to take care of is one large belt that takes care of all the accessories (alternator, power steering, A/C) and the water pump. For older cards, there are usually more than one belts, and you must ensure they are all in working condition.

The strength and fixing of the belt also matter. So check the belts and get them replaced before something goes horribly wrong.

Rubber Hoses

The typical shelf life of a rubber hose can last up to 10 years. However, when in a car, they have to deal with regular exposure to different temperatures. The higher the temperature, the more squishy rubber hoses become at a faster rate.

First and foremost, check the hoses attached to the radiator. Next comes in the heater hoses. Look for blisters or bulges, which is a clear indication of weak hose walls. Such tubes should be replaced immediately. When planning a road trip, also consider investing in a hose-patch kit just to be on the safe side.

Car Coolant

But it’s just water, no?

Well, no! Not all engine coolants are the same, and it’s better if you do not mix them. It’s best to provide your car what it is used to. Check the type already in the engine and use the same coolant. If you have an older car, it’s best to check both radiator and coolant reservoir.

If the current coolant seems like murky water or is rust-colored, get it changed.

Check Tires

One thing that really needs to be in line is your tires. Not only they should be in excellent condition but adequately inflated with the right pressure. For longer routes, never risk with old, rugged tires. They have the tendency to blow out at high speed due to the extra buildup of heat.

Assess the tires yourself and check for pressures. If you have been planning to get new tires for a while, now could be a perfect time.

Keep a Spare Tire

Never leave for a long road trip without a fully inflated spare tire. If you have a small vehicle, it could be challenging to adjust everything inside the trunk for a comfortable ride, but I am suggesting with experience – never ever compromise on carrying a spare tire.

Also, don’t forget to take the wrench, jack, and other tire-changing tools with you. For newer cars with wheel lock, keep the lock-nut adapter too.

Battery

Recharge those batteries before you hit the road. If you have an old battery, check terminals for corrosion. Also, make sure the positive and negative leads are tight. If the ignition indicates the sound of a dying battery, take immediate action.

Nothing could be worse than being stranded with a dead battery.

Test Your Car

Go for a little ride before you actually go for your road trip. Pay attention to the noises, trouble signs, and anything that doesn’t feel right. Be a little more conscious than usual as you drive. Assuming that everything is okay won’t help – trust me, it won’t!

This will be your test drive to see your car’s performance. Do you hear your wheels moaning and grinding? It could be an indication of a worn out CV joint or bad wheel bearing. Does your car squeal when you press the brakes? You might want to check out the brake pads. Can you notice the headlights flicker? It could be corroded battery or a dying alternator.

The Preparation Side

Another critical side that you really need to pay attention to is the prep. Now that your car is ready to hit the road make sure you are prepared well to avoid any uncomfortable situation. Here are some awesome hacks that will make your life easier:

Pack Smart

Assess the capacity of your car to make sure you are packing just right. Overloading your vehicle will put it under a lot of stress for a long journey. Also, think about the number of days you will be on the trip and pack accordingly. You can even check your car’s manual to learn about the load rating including both cargo and passengers.

Don’t forget that the efficiency of fuel consumption is also compromised if you overload your vehicle. If there are roof-top carriers, use it for lighter items. Putting heavy loads on the roof can make driving a challenge and handling difficult in case of an emergency.

Pack wisely and think about only the must-haves first. Make a list of items that you should not leave behind. It could include extra clothing, camps, tents, food and beverages, first aid box, a spare tire, chargers, torch, other tools and equipment, and absolutely anything you cannot afford to leave behind.

Carry all the additional stuff only if you have space available at the end.

Keep Your Tents

If you don’t want to be stranded in the middle of nowhere without a place to sneak in other than your car, make sure you have your tents or portable camps with you. A durable outfitter tent is a must-have if you are planning an overnight camping expedition as well during the road trip.

Tents are great to carry in case you wish to stop by in a remote area. It’s also a great way to save a big deal of money if you are an adventurous person and can ditch the comfort of hotels and guesthouses and prefer staying in a tent only.

Also, tents can be great if you want to stop by and take a nap in a more comfortable position before you are fresh enough to get driving again. They also come in handy if you face an emergency situation with your car and have a family with you on the trip.

Essential Tools and Equipment

From fixing the spare tire to setting up a tent and other things, you will need to carry some necessary tools and equipment with you.

It’s best to prepare a toolbox and include everything you may need during the tip. Make a list so that you don’t miss out on anything important.

Portable GPS Navigation

It’s one of the best things you can carry with you on a road trip. When you are away from home, getting lost is another primary concern. However, if you have a portable GPS navigation system, you can easily keep track of where you are going.

Not only it helps you figure out the route, but also makes it easy to find restaurants and gas stations along the way. If your GPS navigation system has traffic-enabled features, it can even warn you about alternate routes if the main road has heavy traffic. You can also use a navigator to seek emergency services near your location in case anything unfavorable happens.

Kid Prep

You need to be especially careful with your preps if you have kids with you on the road trip. In addition to keeping enough clothes and warm clothes for them, pack water, snacks, videos, games, and music to keep them engaged and comfortable during the journey.

There is a ton of advice you can get on the internet about making road trip stress free with kids. Make yourself aware and prep accordingly.

Wash Your Car

Back to your car once again! Now that you have taken care of all the technicalities of your vehicle, it’s time to thoroughly clean it and wash it to prepare it for the trip.

What Happens When You Don’t Prepare Well For a Road Trip Adventure

You get in a lot of trouble!

All of the tips I shared with you above are something I learned with experience. Failure to do enough research and not paying attention to my car before heading down for an adventurous trip has really made me suffer a lot.

Just because I use my car daily to commute to work, I assumed it’s in the perfect condition for a long 1400 miles drive on the Blues Highway. I planned to run clean through US Route 61, which connects New Orleans and Minnesota. Little did I know what awaited me on the road!

As confident as I was about the whole plan, at the most unexpected hour, my car broke down! We stopped to rest only to find out later that the batteries gave up. After multiple trials at the ignition, I realized my fault. I didn’t want to do further damage to what was already happening, so I stopped.

I was clueless. All I could do was think about the time I could hear the struggling noise of the engine in the ignition that I didn’t really pay attention to. I regretted. To make things worse, I wasn’t even carrying a tent because we were not planning to stay outdoors.

After waiting for around three hours on the road past midnight, we finally found help, and a passerby helped us by recharging our car’s battery with their own. They were even carrying the equipment required for this. I instantly made a mental note of adding that to my collection. I used my GPS navigation system to find a reliable place for auto parts and batteries as soon as we entered the city. I got the battery fixed to ensure I don’t face the same problem during the rest of my journey.

Final Word

It was a bad experience – stranded in the middle of nowhere with my family and of course, with a limited supply of necessary items. After that adventurous trip was over, I sat down and made a list of everything one should consider before planning a road ride. And I wanted all my readers to learn from the mistake I made so their trip is smooth and as adventurous as they would like without any unpleasant surprises.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/road-trip-car-broke-down/

Road Trip Adventure: My Car Broke Down!

With the busy summer travel season approaching, it’s the perfect time to plan out your road trip too. You may travel to another county or go across the country depending on your preference. But regardless of how long or short, your route is, it’s essential to keep up with your car’s maintenance to make your road trip a memorable adventure.

Here, you will learn everything about how you can plan and execute an unforgettable road trip. From packing to your car maintenance, this article covers it all. It also tells you what happens if you neglect these things.

So to avoid struggle, plan ahead and take all the following points into consideration. Let’s start with my adventure story!

The Technical Side

 A detailed mechanical check-over is essential even if your car is relatively new. The following are some essential measures on the technical side that you must take to avoid being stranded in the middle of nowhere.

The following are some reminders to help you prepare a checklist before you set out on your road journey.

Engine Oil

It’s important to check the date you are due for an oil change. If it falls on the same dates as your road trip, better get it changed before time. Always check your oil levels before hitting the road. Your engine deserves more than a tank full of gunky old oil.

Consider using a synthetic oil this time – especially if you are going on a long-distance road trip. Using a reliable, synthetic oil can offer you extra thermal protection if you are driving in hot weather and keep your engine from breaking down. Schedule your car for all necessary services including tune-ups and oil changes.

Inspect Your Car for Major Repairs

Carry out this step at least 2-3 weeks before your road trip. Get the service scheduled for any major repairs or services your car needs. Do an inspection on your own or get it checked by a professional. Take ample of time to identify and fix such problems if you don’t want them to pop up when you are in the mid of your road trip.

Check Other Fluids

It’s not only the engine oil you need to care about. Other oil reservoirs need to be checked before you embark on your road trip.

The drive axle and transmission of your car have separate lubricant supplies too. See if you need to get it changed. You can take your vehicle to a service shop to get this job done.

Belts

Check the friction surface of the engine belts too. If they show signs of damage like cracks and tears or exposure of fiber cords, you might want to think about replacing them. If you have a new car, all you need to take care of is one large belt that takes care of all the accessories (alternator, power steering, A/C) and the water pump. For older cards, there are usually more than one belts, and you must ensure they are all in working condition.

The strength and fixing of the belt also matter. So check the belts and get them replaced before something goes horribly wrong.

Rubber Hoses

The typical shelf life of a rubber hose can last up to 10 years. However, when in a car, they have to deal with regular exposure to different temperatures. The higher the temperature, the more squishy rubber hoses become at a faster rate.

First and foremost, check the hoses attached to the radiator. Next comes in the heater hoses. Look for blisters or bulges, which is a clear indication of weak hose walls. Such tubes should be replaced immediately. When planning a road trip, also consider investing in a hose-patch kit just to be on the safe side.

Car Coolant

But it’s just water, no?

Well, no! Not all engine coolants are the same, and it’s better if you do not mix them. It’s best to provide your car what it is used to. Check the type already in the engine and use the same coolant. If you have an older car, it’s best to check both radiator and coolant reservoir.

If the current coolant seems like murky water or is rust-colored, get it changed.

Check Tires

One thing that really needs to be in line is your tires. Not only they should be in excellent condition but adequately inflated with the right pressure. For longer routes, never risk with old, rugged tires. They have the tendency to blow out at high speed due to the extra buildup of heat.

Assess the tires yourself and check for pressures. If you have been planning to get new tires for a while, now could be a perfect time.

Keep a Spare Tire

Never leave for a long road trip without a fully inflated spare tire. If you have a small vehicle, it could be challenging to adjust everything inside the trunk for a comfortable ride, but I am suggesting with experience – never ever compromise on carrying a spare tire.

Also, don’t forget to take the wrench, jack, and other tire-changing tools with you. For newer cars with wheel lock, keep the lock-nut adapter too.

Battery

Recharge those batteries before you hit the road. If you have an old battery, check terminals for corrosion. Also, make sure the positive and negative leads are tight. If the ignition indicates the sound of a dying battery, take immediate action.

Nothing could be worse than being stranded with a dead battery.

Test Your Car

Go for a little ride before you actually go for your road trip. Pay attention to the noises, trouble signs, and anything that doesn’t feel right. Be a little more conscious than usual as you drive. Assuming that everything is okay won’t help – trust me, it won’t!

This will be your test drive to see your car’s performance. Do you hear your wheels moaning and grinding? It could be an indication of a worn out CV joint or bad wheel bearing. Does your car squeal when you press the brakes? You might want to check out the brake pads. Can you notice the headlights flicker? It could be corroded battery or a dying alternator.

The Preparation Side

Another critical side that you really need to pay attention to is the prep. Now that your car is ready to hit the road make sure you are prepared well to avoid any uncomfortable situation. Here are some awesome hacks that will make your life easier:

Pack Smart

Assess the capacity of your car to make sure you are packing just right. Overloading your vehicle will put it under a lot of stress for a long journey. Also, think about the number of days you will be on the trip and pack accordingly. You can even check your car’s manual to learn about the load rating including both cargo and passengers.

Don’t forget that the efficiency of fuel consumption is also compromised if you overload your vehicle. If there are roof-top carriers, use it for lighter items. Putting heavy loads on the roof can make driving a challenge and handling difficult in case of an emergency.

Pack wisely and think about only the must-haves first. Make a list of items that you should not leave behind. It could include extra clothing, camps, tents, food and beverages, first aid box, a spare tire, chargers, torch, other tools and equipment, and absolutely anything you cannot afford to leave behind.

Carry all the additional stuff only if you have space available at the end.

Keep Your Tents

If you don’t want to be stranded in the middle of nowhere without a place to sneak in other than your car, make sure you have your tents or portable camps with you. A durable outfitter tent is a must-have if you are planning an overnight camping expedition as well during the road trip.

Tents are great to carry in case you wish to stop by in a remote area. It’s also a great way to save a big deal of money if you are an adventurous person and can ditch the comfort of hotels and guesthouses and prefer staying in a tent only.

Also, tents can be great if you want to stop by and take a nap in a more comfortable position before you are fresh enough to get driving again. They also come in handy if you face an emergency situation with your car and have a family with you on the trip.

Essential Tools and Equipment

From fixing the spare tire to setting up a tent and other things, you will need to carry some necessary tools and equipment with you.

It’s best to prepare a toolbox and include everything you may need during the tip. Make a list so that you don’t miss out on anything important.

Portable GPS Navigation

It’s one of the best things you can carry with you on a road trip. When you are away from home, getting lost is another primary concern. However, if you have a portable GPS navigation system, you can easily keep track of where you are going.

Not only it helps you figure out the route, but also makes it easy to find restaurants and gas stations along the way. If your GPS navigation system has traffic-enabled features, it can even warn you about alternate routes if the main road has heavy traffic. You can also use a navigator to seek emergency services near your location in case anything unfavorable happens.

Kid Prep

You need to be especially careful with your preps if you have kids with you on the road trip. In addition to keeping enough clothes and warm clothes for them, pack water, snacks, videos, games, and music to keep them engaged and comfortable during the journey.

There is a ton of advice you can get on the internet about making road trip stress free with kids. Make yourself aware and prep accordingly.

Wash Your Car

Back to your car once again! Now that you have taken care of all the technicalities of your vehicle, it’s time to thoroughly clean it and wash it to prepare it for the trip.

What Happens When You Don’t Prepare Well For a Road Trip Adventure

You get in a lot of trouble!

All of the tips I shared with you above are something I learned with experience. Failure to do enough research and not paying attention to my car before heading down for an adventurous trip has really made me suffer a lot.

Just because I use my car daily to commute to work, I assumed it’s in the perfect condition for a long 1400 miles drive on the Blues Highway. I planned to run clean through US Route 61, which connects New Orleans and Minnesota. Little did I know what awaited me on the road!

As confident as I was about the whole plan, at the most unexpected hour, my car broke down! We stopped to rest only to find out later that the batteries gave up. After multiple trials at the ignition, I realized my fault. I didn’t want to do further damage to what was already happening, so I stopped.

I was clueless. All I could do was think about the time I could hear the struggling noise of the engine in the ignition that I didn’t really pay attention to. I regretted. To make things worse, I wasn’t even carrying a tent because we were not planning to stay outdoors.

After waiting for around three hours on the road past midnight, we finally found help, and a passerby helped us by recharging our car’s battery with their own. They were even carrying the equipment required for this. I instantly made a mental note of adding that to my collection. I used my GPS navigation system to find a reliable place for auto parts and batteries as soon as we entered the city. I got the battery fixed to ensure I don’t face the same problem during the rest of my journey.

Final Word

It was a bad experience – stranded in the middle of nowhere with my family and of course, with a limited supply of necessary items. After that adventurous trip was over, I sat down and made a list of everything one should consider before planning a road ride. And I wanted all my readers to learn from the mistake I made so their trip is smooth and as adventurous as they would like without any unpleasant surprises.

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How to Get More MPG out of Your Car

Let’s face it: gas is expensive — especially if you have a long commute, or enjoy road trips. While you can’t avoid filling up at the gas station unless you buy an electric car, there are some steps you can take to improve the miles per gallon that you get out of your daily driver, even if it’s a sports car or gas-guzzling pickup truck.

So what can you do to get more MPG out of your car?

Tune Up

Keeping your engine turned-up is one of the best ways to improve your car’s MPGs, but what does “tuning-up” really mean? Here’s a quick crash course:

Change your oil and filter regularly and use your manufacturer’s recommended oil and weight. Refer to your owner’s manual here and throughout the following steps.

Change your air filter. A dirty air filter isn’t just bad for your car’s fuel economy — it lowers your engine’s overall efficiency. A clogged air filter means your car can’t breathe and it works harder to pull in oxygen, burning more fuel in the process.

Use the right fuel. Just because you like to use premium in your engine doesn’t mean your car actually needs it. Again, check your owner’s manual — it’ll tell you the proper type of fuel for your engine.

Inflate

Under-inflated tires aren’t just dangerous — they also lower your car’s fuel efficiency. Studies have shown that properly inflated tires can improve your gas mileage by anywhere from 0.6 to 3 percent, so keep them properly inflated according to your owner’s manual. Looking in the manual is key… it’s usually going to be slightly less than what’s printed on your tires. Over-inflation could cause all sorts of other problems, so go with what’s recommended.

If you need to replace your tires, look for an option with low rolling resistance or a narrower profile to improve your MPG. The more rubber in contact with the road, the greater the drag and the lower your MPG.

Don’t Speed

Yeah, we’re talking to you, Lead Foot. If you want to improve your gas mileage, keep your foot off the gas pedal. Driving aggressively can reduce your MPG by up to 33 percent on the highway and up to five percent in the city.

Ideally, you’ll get the best gas mileage if you stay under 45 miles per hour at all times, but we all know that’s not always possible, especially on the highway. Just don’t go 80 in a 55 and you’ll be fine.

Swap Sparks

You don’t usually think about your spark plugs unless your car starts to misfire, but research has found that bad spark plugs, or plugs that are mis-gapped before installation, can lower your car’s fuel economy by upwards of 30 percent. Even if your car hasn’t started throwing a misfire code, chances are good you’ve got a bad plug or two if the gas mileage suddenly starts dropping dramatically.

Improve Aerodynamics

Your car might not have enough storage space for your liking, but if you add things like a roof rack, you could be damaging your car’s fuel efficiency. Adding additional drag sources like roof storage means your car has to work harder to get moving, and will burn more fuel in the process.

We’re thankful gas isn’t four bucks a gallon right now, but that doesn’t mean we can start slacking off when it comes to fuel efficiency. Sometimes all it takes is a tune-up and some new tires to bring your car back to the MPG it had when it rolled off the assembly line. Take care of your car and it will take care of you.

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New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/get-more-mpg/

How to Get More MPG out of Your Car

Let’s face it: gas is expensive — especially if you have a long commute, or enjoy road trips. While you can’t avoid filling up at the gas station unless you buy an electric car, there are some steps you can take to improve the miles per gallon that you get out of your daily driver, even if it’s a sports car or gas-guzzling pickup truck.

So what can you do to get more MPG out of your car?

Tune Up

Keeping your engine turned-up is one of the best ways to improve your car��s MPGs, but what does “tuning-up” really mean? Here’s a quick crash course:

Change your oil and filter regularly and use your manufacturer’s recommended oil and weight. Refer to your owner’s manual here and throughout the following steps.

Change your air filter. A dirty air filter isn’t just bad for your car’s fuel economy — it lowers your engine’s overall efficiency. A clogged air filter means your car can’t breathe and it works harder to pull in oxygen, burning more fuel in the process.

Use the right fuel. Just because you like to use premium in your engine doesn’t mean your car actually needs it. Again, check your owner’s manual — it’ll tell you the proper type of fuel for your engine.

Inflate

Under-inflated tires aren’t just dangerous — they also lower your car’s fuel efficiency. Studies have shown that properly inflated tires can improve your gas mileage by anywhere from 0.6 to 3 percent, so keep them properly inflated according to your owner’s manual. Looking in the manual is key… it’s usually going to be slightly less than what’s printed on your tires. Over-inflation could cause all sorts of other problems, so go with what’s recommended.

If you need to replace your tires, look for an option with low rolling resistance or a narrower profile to improve your MPG. The more rubber in contact with the road, the greater the drag and the lower your MPG.

Don’t Speed

Yeah, we’re talking to you, Lead Foot. If you want to improve your gas mileage, keep your foot off the gas pedal. Driving aggressively can reduce your MPG by up to 33 percent on the highway and up to five percent in the city.

Ideally, you’ll get the best gas mileage if you stay under 45 miles per hour at all times, but we all know that’s not always possible, especially on the highway. Just don’t go 80 in a 55 and you’ll be fine.

Swap Sparks

You don’t usually think about your spark plugs unless your car starts to misfire, but research has found that bad spark plugs, or plugs that are mis-gapped before installation, can lower your car’s fuel economy by upwards of 30 percent. Even if your car hasn’t started throwing a misfire code, chances are good you’ve got a bad plug or two if the gas mileage suddenly starts dropping dramatically.

Improve Aerodynamics

Your car might not have enough storage space for your liking, but if you add things like a roof rack, you could be damaging your car’s fuel efficiency. Adding additional drag sources like roof storage means your car has to work harder to get moving, and will burn more fuel in the process.

We’re thankful gas isn’t four bucks a gallon right now, but that doesn’t mean we can start slacking off when it comes to fuel efficiency. Sometimes all it takes is a tune-up and some new tires to bring your car back to the MPG it had when it rolled off the assembly line. Take care of your car and it will take care of you.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

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5 Tools to Take Your Wrenching to the Next Level

Despite what the dealership wants you to believe, it’s still a fairly simple task to change the oil on your car, fix a flat tire or even reprogram your engine computer. A small set of well-selected tools can serve you well in the journey from layperson to novice mechanic. But what happens when it’s time to take the next step?

You’ve invested the time to get familiar with your car and accrue the basic necessities, and now you’re ready for more. To open the door to new projects, you’re going to need a more robust set of tools. Here are our recommendations for those seeking to ascend to the next level of grease-monkey godliness.

Automotive Stethoscope

You don’t need to finish med school to diagnose your car’s engine problems with a stethoscope, though you should do a little reading before you use it. The automotive version of this familiar listening device can help you locate the source of a strange noise and potentially stop harmful detonation or pinging before it gets bad. Then comes the fun part: tearing into everything.

Trim Removal Tools

Yes, you can take all the trim off your car’s interior using a screwdriver and cheesecloth. You can even use a butter knife in a pinch. If, however, you’d like it to go back on, you need to educate yourself in the art of trim clip preservation. You can get a full set of trim removal tools for less than $30, and they will keep your interior from disintegrating around you after a few projects. It’s a cheap tool, but you’ll use it more than you’d expect.

Floor Lift

Want back problems? Spend your days wrenching on cars without a lift. It might seem like a big investment, but the clearance and ease of access you can get with a lift will make demanding jobs much easier. They’re also good for saving space, depending on which type of lift you buy. Not only that, lifts are much safer than jacks. It only takes a quick Google search to find hundreds of stories of people who have been hurt or killed from their car jacks.

Impact Gun

Nothing says “I’m a certified car person” like the high-pitched wail of an impact gun. We recommend you spend plenty of time getting used to this powerful tool so you don’t embarrass yourself — or, even worse, do severe damage to your car. Respect it, and the impact gun will unlock — well, just about anything. You’ll feel like a real pro once you learn to use it correctly, and there’s not much better than hearing that sound.

Thread File

Here’s a tool for those who own and work on vintage cars. Fasteners for older models can be challenging to find, so if you strip some threads, it can postpone your project by weeks. Instead of spending money on replacements, a thread file lets you restore the grooves in the existing hardware. It’s an affordable solution to an expensive problem.

You’ll need a lot more tools than these if you’re going to become a master mechanic, but these are all solid additions to your toolset you’ll be glad you invested in. The lift alone is so practical that it will eventually pay for itself. Add these to the average weekend warrior’s collection of sockets, wrenches, pliers and spare parts, and you are well on your way to journeyman status. Happy wrenching!

Scott Huntington writes about cars out of Harrisburg, PA. Follow him on Twitter @SMHuntington or check out his blog, Off The Throttle.

[usaautobodyshopdirectory-blog]

New Post has been published on USA Auto Body Shop Locator

New Post has been published on https://www.autobodyshop.org/wrenching-tools/

5 Tools to Take Your Wrenching to the Next Level

Despite what the dealership wants you to believe, it’s still a fairly simple task to change the oil on your car, fix a flat tire or even reprogram your engine computer. A small set of well-selected tools can serve you well in the journey from layperson to novice mechanic. But what happens when it’s time to take the next step?

You’ve invested the time to get familiar with your car and accrue the basic necessities, and now you’re ready for more. To open the door to new projects, you’re going to need a more robust set of tools. Here are our recommendations for those seeking to ascend to the next level of grease-monkey godliness.

Automotive Stethoscope

You don’t need to finish med school to diagnose your car’s engine problems with a stethoscope, though you should do a little reading before you use it. The automotive version of this familiar listening device can help you locate the source of a strange noise and potentially stop harmful detonation or pinging before it gets bad. Then comes the fun part: tearing into everything.

Trim Removal Tools

Yes, you can take all the trim off your car’s interior using a screwdriver and cheesecloth. You can even use a butter knife in a pinch. If, however, you’d like it to go back on, you need to educate yourself in the art of trim clip preservation. You can get a full set of trim removal tools for less than $30, and they will keep your interior from disintegrating around you after a few projects. It’s a cheap tool, but you’ll use it more than you’d expect.

Floor Lift

Want back problems? Spend your days wrenching on cars without a lift. It might seem like a big investment, but the clearance and ease of access you can get with a lift will make demanding jobs much easier. They’re also good for saving space, depending on which type of lift you buy. Not only that, lifts are much safer than jacks. It only takes a quick Google search to find hundreds of stories of people who have been hurt or killed from their car jacks.

Impact Gun

Nothing says “I’m a certified car person” like the high-pitched wail of an impact gun. We recommend you spend plenty of time getting used to this powerful tool so you don’t embarrass yourself — or, even worse, do severe damage to your car. Respect it, and the impact gun will unlock — well, just about anything. You’ll feel like a real pro once you learn to use it correctly, and there’s not much better than hearing that sound.

Thread File

Here’s a tool for those who own and work on vintage cars. Fasteners for older models can be challenging to find, so if you strip some threads, it can postpone your project by weeks. Instead of spending money on replacements, a thread file lets you restore the grooves in the existing hardware. It’s an affordable solution to an expensive problem.

You’ll need a lot more tools than these if you’re going to become a master mechanic, but these are all solid additions to your toolset you’ll be glad you invested in. The lift alone is so practical that it will eventually pay for itself. Add these to the average weekend warrior’s collection of sockets, wrenches, pliers and spare parts, and you are well on your way to journeyman status. Happy wrenching!

Scott Huntington writes about cars out of Harrisburg, PA. Follow him on Twitter @SMHuntington or check out his blog, Off The Throttle.

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