Posts Tagged ‘garage’
Monday, August 9th, 2010
We are not all flat-landers who live, work and commute day by day on flat prairie land. Many live in hilly and mountainous areas. You would think that braking system effectiveness and reliability would be top on the list of most motorists and automobile owners when it comes to service and maintenance attention and schedules yet sadly break system inspection and service is at the bottom of most automobile owner’s priority and items to do list when it comes to their vehicles.
One simple question to ask most motorists. When was the last time you changed your hydraulic brake fluid. Brake fluid, is inexpensive yet deteriorates over time with dirt, moisture and humidity. You would think that simple routine “bleeding of the brakes” to drain out the brake fluid, and then replace it with new fluid would be a standard auto repair service. Hydraulic brake fluid should be replaced on a standard 2 year schedule. More often perhaps in cases of extreme service - taxis, police cars, vehicles in frigid cold winter climes. Yet most vehicles enter the auto junkyard with the exact same brake fluid which filled their car’s brake cylinders, reservoirs and brake lines when the automobile was manufactured at the factory level.
In the past the four wheel drum brake shoe was more than adequate for road comfort and safety. However the drum brake system has one major drawback. Because Of the excessive heat buildup, the brakes fade, or lose their power to slow down or stop the car, truck or S.U.V. vehicle. To overcome this problem, a new type braking method and system was introduced and is now the standard. The newer type of brake system that replaced the standard drum brakes was introduced. These disc brakes are superior as they deal with friction generated heat a lot more effectively.
When you step on the brakes momentum throws most of the automobile’s weight in a forward direction. Approximately 60 % of the braking force generated in a vehicle is created and exerted by the front wheels, as opposed to the rear wheel brake system. For balanced braking it is necessary to have greater braking and stopping capacity at the front end of the car. Thus in the development and manufacture of autos and automobile models generally disk type brakes are employed at the front wheels, with less expensive older style drum brakes at the rear.
Motorists often take their brake systems for more than granted and as a result these systems suffer little maintenance, attention and care. Yet in an emergency handling system a brake system that is in good stead may make the difference between a safe short stop and a messy and needless collision,. Consider that in your vehicle maintenance and inspection schedule and schedules.
Edmonton Chrysler Caliber 2010
Tags: auto, auto dealer service department, auto insurance, auto repair, auto safety, auto service writer, automobile, automotive, automotive brake systems, dealer, garage, transportation
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Friday, July 16th, 2010
It can be said that no book or manual about do-it yourself auto repairs is fully complete without a section that concerns auto repair safety. Yet interestingly enough few budding or even experienced auto mechanics it seems pay serious attention to safety and basic safety procedures.
While it is true that vehicles are more trouble free, requiring less maintenance, and with more electronic and automated systems today does not mean “no maintenance” ever. Auto dealership service departments still do a roaring business. Even though some avid auto owners may insist that their cars, trucks or SUVs never ever “break down” , Toyota and other Japanese auto dealership service departments are still in business with plenty of repairs on hand, and a long queue if you wish to book your automobile for service.
Next never crawl under a car or vehicle that is not adequately supported. Next in line never ever rely on the auto jack alone to hold up the car, truck, van or bus that you or your team are working on. No excuses will ever do for this cardinal and very deadly sin of omission and laziness. The vehicle should be on level ground with the transmission in gear (manual transmission) or park (automatic tranny). Next the emergency brake should also be fully engaged. One or preferably more wheels should be solidly and firmly blocked. To block a car from rolling a brick or a piece of wood can be utilized to prevent the car from rolling.
It is a simple rule and basic safety prevention rule and standard never to smoke cigarettes or tobacco products when working on the fuel system or battery charging system. Gasoline vapors from the fuel tank, fuel lines, carburetor or fuel injections are more than extremely flammable. Hydrogen gas inside the battery, as well as lingering about the battery case, is dangerously explosive. The hydrogen sulfide gas emitted by charging (as opposed to dead) auto batteries can be set off by any or even the smallest spark. Once set ablaze the hydrogen sulfide gas can serve to explode the battery with its dangerous caustic battery acid- which can splash not only on your mechanics set of clothes but also onto their face, eyes or skin. Thus make it a solid rule to refrain from smoking any time that you are working on a car or under the hood.
Lastly when doing any kind of electrical work such as replacing a starter, ignition switch, alternator, voltage regulator, radio etc, it is always a wise and safe idea and practice to disconnect the battery ground cable entirely. This will eliminate the possibility and possibilities of accidentally grounding the electrical circuit which could well start a fire or alternatively damaging some component in the now very delicate electrical and electronic systems of modern cars. The component of modern hybrid vehicles even come now in shielding electrostatic bags alone just to shield the sensitive electronic components of these hybrid gas / electric vehicles from the ravages of simple static electricity
Edmonton Vehicles Finance
Tags: auto, auto finance, auto financing, auto insurance, auto service, auto service centers, auto trades, auto transport, automotive, garage, new car dealership, transportation, travel
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Friday, July 2nd, 2010
No doubt about it if you maintain your car’s appearance not only do you look finer when you drive down the street proudly in vehicle, but also when it comes time for trade in not only will your car command a higher trade in value, but as well will be more desirable by the dealer or a private purchaser that is if you sell your auto yourself privately
Ultraviolet light - U.V. light, can cause in chemical terms oxidation. Oxidation, in chemical terms, can be explained a chemical breakdown in paint pigments. You may well have noticed the results of harmful chemical oxidation on appearance of your vehicle which you drive proudly.
The results of oxidation of a previously shiny and beautiful auto finish are obvious for all or most to see. First the paint finish will present with a dull chalky appearance. Look for “crazing” - that is a maze of hair like cracks on metallic or refinished surfaces which can occur when paint shrinks under the hot summer sun. Crazing is especially common in hot climates such as Florida residents or even visiting tourists encounter. Lastly add in bird dropping - or bird do do which can permanently stain your car’s paint and finish if not wiped off or cleaned off more than promptly.
Yet there is nothing nicer than washing your car in your driveway on a sunny afternoon. While being convenient with “one stop shopping” - that is hot water , soap, a high pressure cleaning nozzle as well as cleaning brush and vacuum all in one place a buggy bath may overall be not such a great bargain to you as an auto owner both in terms of time , convenience and cost. The car wash may be crowded at peak times when you are free and off work - weekends for example. Secondly you may be rushed in your efforts both in terms of time allowed by the coin meter feeding the hot water to wash your car. You may not notice imperfect cleaning until you are out in the sun, away from the cleaning away, drying your vehicle.
Lastly dry your car, truck or SUV fully and completely with a clean, damp chamois or alternatively a towel. Now you can stand back and admire your results. Pleasant driving in your perfectly clean automobile as you traverses the highways of life and liberty.
Derrick Chrysler Online
Tags: auto, auto insurance, auto maintenance, auto repair, auto sales, autobody, automobileauto detailing, car, dealer, garage, summertime, truck
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Saturday, March 20th, 2010
A professional mechanic has thousands of dollars invested in hand tools because he or she has to repair virtually any part of any car. Having the correct, appropriate as well as specific tool simply allows them to work faster, more easily and efficiently and at the end of their workday at their garage or auto dealership make more money.
However in the case of most amateur mechanics and vehicle owners they need to have only the tools to fix a handful of cars - two or three family vehicles in most cases. Since in most cases speed of repair time is not the primary concern - most can do with a somewhat minimal however not as limited as they would think - auto tool kit.
It seems now that virtually every new engine, transmission or other major components now installed in foreign and now standard North American - USA, Canadian and Mexican made NAFTA vehicles are made to metric standards.
Carry an old towel as well, in these situations and regards, since installing tire chains can be a most wet and dirty job. A word of seasoned advice, from a professional driver well knowledgeable about roads and automotive repairs is that if you have never accomplished this task, under duress, then you may well want to practice ahead of time on a dry day in the comfort of your driveway, or perhaps in a parking lot on a quiet Sunday afternoon. You might even want to keep your tire chains easily stored away in an old duffel or gym back. Old hockey bags are great for this purpose. This way they are easily spotted in a pinch and well will not be a nuisance either in your trunk, or truck storage areas.
No doubt about it. Your basic auto tool kit and first aid setup can both be a convenience and a lifesaver to the average motorist - yourself and your family included.
Edmonton Alberta Dodge Grand autoavan Service Center
Tags: auto, auto insurance, automotive, dealership, diesel, garage, gas, GM, insurance, maintenance, repair, transportation, travel, truck, trucking
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Thursday, January 21st, 2010
Too many automobile aficionados and downright car guys the nameplate “Studebaker” is associated with such advanced classic vehicles of their time - such as the Studebaker Avanti model introduced unbelievably in the 1963 auto market year. Complete decked out with a fiberglass body , futuristic styling , disc brakes and an optional turbocharged engine the Avanti still turns head and was way ahead of the pack of the car and vehicle products of the big 3 automakers of the time.
Historically, Studebaker introduced its all-new Champion in 1939. It was leaner, lighter version of the full-sized car that established its fame and placed the company’s models in the succeeding years. During the Second World War, automobile manufacturers contributed to the war but they started producing civilian cars after-wards. They produced prewar models while developing their new postwar cars. Still the amphibious vehicle “The Weasel” not only lead the charge in many of the landings of US troops but also its advanced technologies and mechanical reliability led the way to many of the amphibious and “water cars” that we have designed and built today on the marketplace. In 1942, Studebaker began manufacturing their new design. Meanwhile, they did not incorporate the President and Commander models in 1946. They only manufactured the “Champion,” better known as “Skyway Champion.”
Studebaker survived the lean economic times of the 1930’s ,merging with the luxury US automaker Piece-Arrow , during this troubled economic time period of the “Great Depression”. Perhaps such spunkiness , stick to it ness and determination might be a business model that the North American based auto industry could take great lessons from in the current shakeup , shakedown and troubled times of the North American auto industry.
Studebaker cars were famous to be “coming or going cars.” The front to rear were alike that humorist couldn’t identify the front from the back. The company released their three-box post war model in 1949. They were the Land Cruiser, Studebaker Champion, and Commander. Land Cruiser and Commander had several features of the Champion models such as front fenders, extended rear door, longer wheelbase and hood. Studebaker models had some features of the prewar designs. The 2.8 liter model has an 80 horsepower six-cylinder engine that was used by the Champion model. Meanwhile, the 3.7 Liter Commander/Land Cruiser was released in the early 1930s. Studebaker designs had not changed until the release of “bullet nose” models in 1950. However, other car manufacturers outrun the company’s style during the same year. Studebaker had some outstanding models such as Hawk series and Avanti with their advanced styling, fiberglass bodies, and such introduced such innovative features as safer faster “disc brakes”, as well as optional “turbocharged” turbo engines. But they experienced extreme difficulty because of several independent car producers and lost its fame and luster in 1966, culminating in the closure of their Canadian auto assembly in the Canadian steel town of Hamilton, Ontario.
Studebaker can never be replaced by today’s high technology cars. They started from a small company and became famous of their quality designs, and reliable models.
Eagle Ridge GM Vancouver GMC Finance
Tags: auto, auto insurance, automobile, Avanti, carguys, classic, dealer, garage, hobbies, insurance, management, Studebaker, truck, vintage
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Saturday, November 28th, 2009
Wintertime driving can be more than challenging and even downright dangerous. Now before the cold winter descends on us from Canada preparation for the driving conditions that await us in the snow and ice are in order. Prepare your vehicle - be it auto, car, truck or SUV now. It pays to work ahead. Why wait for spring or in this case winter-time cold weather driving .
Some people and authorities will hold that all season year round radial tires are “just fine”. Others will say not and that you need a distinct set of tires for the winter-time season , these are referred to as “Snow Tires”. To the greatest extent it depends on what geographic areas that you live in and traverse, your climate and your driving habits and trips. You may have roadside assistance offered as part of a package from your new or used car dealer that you purchased your auto , tires or battery from , but why take the chance of inconvenience and delay ?
You may well have heard the click click click sound of studded snow tires emanating from a passing vehicle. Studded tires ones with tungsten , carbide or ceramic studs buried in the tyre treads perform well on packed snow or ice, almost as well as winter-time snow “chains” However due to the damage done to highways and roadways not all states allow the use of wintertime studs. At last count for the 2009 / 10 winter season fully 36 out of the 50 states allow these traction devices - within seasonal time of year , geographic with some provisos on modifications of the devices. Six states (Colorado, Kentucky, New Hampshire, New Mexico, Vermont, and Wyoming) allow virtually unrestricted use of studded tires on state roads and highways. Lastly there are seven states , mainly in warm southern climes, who distinctly prohibit their use. Think again if you are going to traverse the United States highway beltway system, from home in Northern or Edmonton Alberta escaping Jack Frost for a well earned Christmas break vacation in Florida or Texas, and driving safely over ice with studded tires. Take the time and expense to switch back to your all season or even summer set of radial tires yet you have nice discussion and highway traffic fine from a friendly state trooper just waiting there for you.
If there is one lesson in life its plan early. Most people whether its for their income tax , or automotive repair or maintenance wait till the very last minute. Its a case of putting out fires or management by crisis. You can bet when that on that very day of the cold snap , when the snowstorm / blizzard arrives that the wait for the CAA or AAA rescue tow truck will be hours and hours . On top of that just venture into the icy parking lot or service repair area of your local Canadian tire only to find that out the long waiting times involved for even an estimate for your vehicle. On top of that it does not take a genius to spot that with all the frost covered windows of frozen vehicle out there on the lot that you are really at the end of line when it comes to auto repair service. Spare yourself the inconvenience and delays that are unnecessary. Plan ahead , early for your winter tune up and to buy snow tires and winter time tyre chains long ahead of the first storm and the maddening rush.
In terms of tire chains the experts state that all considered that the welded lug types are the best type to purchase and choose if you do install and use the chains often. This can well be the case if you live in an area of the Rocky Mountains or are planning a ski trip to Banff , Lake Louise or Montana. Consider also the the overall convenience to motorists of chains involved for simple , simpler and easy to install alternate models, These models are a very good choice for the driving demands of many drivers and motorists that can easily and simply be installed without jacking up or moving your vehicle - be it truck, car or S.U.V..
Wintertime Dodge Ram Truck Winter Tires Studs Chains Fort Mc Murray and Winnipeg Used Auto Info
Tags: auto, auto insurance, automotive, bodyshop, budget, cellphone, dealer, garage, insurance, maintenance, safety, snowtire, tires, winter, women
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Wednesday, November 18th, 2009
The Duesy. The Dusenberg fine automotive creations. These legends have not only entered the American if not European and worldwide vocabulary as “Its a Doozie”. On top of that the impact of the Duesenberg Motor Company live on today in the likes of many replica large touring cars that you may see the likes of Winnipeg’s famous scion Peter Nygard.
What is seldom appreciated is that the mighty Duesenberg motor car clan was derived from rather more humble beginnings - an earlier more mundane production model - the much less glamorous Model “A” Duesenberg. Even though not considered such a classic of note as later Model J and the supercharged Model SJ’32 Duesenbegs , was basically a very good car that introduced a later standard in the auto market - hydraulic brakes.
There is no question about it. The tradition and great technical innovative effects of the Model A Doozies are with us in the worldwide and US auto markets even to us in this era of 2009 / 2010 . Early mechanical and engineering starts and triumphs are fully the record of the Duesenberg A roster and include fully four wheel hydraulic brakes, which used a mixture of both water and alcohol as brake fluid and fluids. At the point in time , that the Dusenberg Models introduced full hydraulic braking mechanisms what were commonly used were standard mechanical brakes - not dissimilar to what you have installed on your bicycle.
Duesenberg took great effort and detail to make extensive used of the then exotic and advanced high tech metal aluminum in its Model A’s engine. Aluminum was by then virtually unknown in the automobile industries - being in the domain of high tech and advanced aircraft industry domain. The uses of aluminum in the Model A overall mechanical detail included the power train’s piston as well as intake manifolds. The Model A weighed in at approximately a hefty 3700 pounds or 1700 kilograms gross vehicle weight overall. Horsepower was then rated at a generous and racy 87 horse power with a total and full engine size displacement of 4.3 litres. Two valves in the cylinder were actuated by a single overhead camshaft driven by bevel gears with its vertical shaft being at the front of the engine itself.
What happened to the Model A’s ? The Dusenberg company continued production well into the’20’s while at the same time producing more exotic flagship J models. Approximately 650 were finished and delivered by the automotive works. It can be summarized and held that the car had an outstanding auto competition record - winning the French Grand Prix as well as fully three Indy 500’s during the decade of the 20’s. In addition the Model A actually had the world record for breaking the land speed record. The Dusenberg stable itself was the dominant name in American car racing during the’20’s. No doubt that helped the market place reputation of the Duesnenberg clan product line . The Model A had the record of a full 3000 non stop endurance event at average speeds of greater than 60 miles per hour. Tires of course not being the steel belted radials that we take for granted on our highways today were not the norm , and had to be changed on the racing track auto repair pit. Still all in all in spite of the achievements and products gleaned from the racing expertise and experiences of the two Duesenberg racing brother team it is the luxury touring motor cars that are in the mind of most automotive minds and memories not the more humble Duesenberg Model A motorcars.
Manitoba Automotive Financing and Vancouver B.C. Automotive Info
Tags: Americana, auto, auto insurance, automotive, bailout., car, carguy, dealer, Duesenberg, Dusenberg, entertainment, garage, Hollywood, insurance, vintage
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Saturday, October 24th, 2009
When most drivers think of their autos cooling system all that comes to mind is their radiator ” the humble rad. The cooling system of your car keeps your autos engine within normal ranges and provides you both comfortable maintenance free driving and heat from their interior car heater during the cold winter time or to defrost their windshield.
Its like brake or transmission in a vehicle - be it car , truck or SUV. Few think about their fluid levels or the last time maintenance was done on the vehicle. Add in the fact that the car or truck is second hand or used and its anyone’s guess. Yet it is a simple and easy matter to check fluid levels and the protection afforded to cold weather freeze-up of the coolant fluids.
How can anyone be taught how to check the coolant level. Simply open up the engine hood when your car has been sitting for a couple of hours. Look for a coolant canister . Its the overflow bottle container and looks simply like a plastic jug. If you do not know how to open your hood - often bonnets today can be a puzzle to open - then consult the auto manual that came with the car , online , or at the worst call your factory dealer or local garage. Just have your auto make , model and year available handy. To judge fluid levels simply look on the side of the coolant overflow container. There will be a marking “cold” or “cold fluid level”. Simply compare the two marks - that of the level of the fluid in the coolant container and the mark on the side of the bottle. Do you have an adequate amount ?
Taking good care of fluid levels under the hood can spare you auto repair bills at your local garage and may well keep you away from car and truck dealers for extra years to come. Its well worth the effort all in all and only requires simple and ongoing attention to detail. After all its your car or truck and your vehicle repair or new car replacement costs out of your own pocketbook.
Most of the problems we encounter both in life and as auto owners are relatively simple and come down to basics. In this case its a matter of proper ongoing maintenance of your vehicle’s cooling system. If you are unsure of the steps and procedures ask professional help . Your local mechanic , a neighbor or the service department of your local nearby car or truck dealership will be only too obliging to help you out.
Alberta Auto Truck Traders
Tags: auto, auto financing, auto insurance, automotive, car, credit financing, dealers, family, garage, home, transportation, truck, women
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Tuesday, October 6th, 2009
by Syd U. Dithers
Who ever takes care of their vehicles radiator and cooling system on a regular and ongoing basis. Few is the answer. Yet with a small amount of simple care and attention on a regular basis you can extend the life of your automotive vehicle and as well provide years more of trouble free service on the roads and highways that you traverse. If you do not have the knowledge or inclination of radiator and cooling system routine maintenance simply ask your auto dealer or local garage who provide maintenance to your vehicle or vehicles.
Yet your car or trucks rad or cooling system is not 100 % maintenance free. Forget about it and you may well have engine overheating damage, substantial auto engine repairs or worse, and no heat from your heater.
How can anyone be taught how to check the coolant level. Simply open up the engine hood when your car has been sitting for a couple of hours. Look for a coolant canister . Its the overflow bottle container and looks simply like a plastic jug. If you do not know how to open your hood - often bonnets today can be a puzzle to open - then consult the auto manual that came with the car , online , or at the worst call your factory dealer or local garage. Just have your auto make , model and year available handy. To judge fluid levels simply look on the side of the coolant overflow container. There will be a marking “cold” or “cold fluid level”. Simply compare the two marks - that of the level of the fluid in the coolant container and the mark on the side of the bottle. Do you have an adequate amount ?
Taking good care of fluid levels under the hood can spare you auto repair bills at your local garage and may well keep you away from car and truck dealers for extra years to come. Its well worth the effort all in all and only requires simple and ongoing attention to detail. After all its your car or truck and your vehicle repair or new car replacement costs out of your own pocketbook.
Its not only a matter of long term truck or car car and long life. Its not only about keeping your vehicle in good running order and a proper ongoing maintenance schedule. it is also about safety. If your vehicle breaks down prematurely or your rad overheats due to low coolant levels you may be stranded in less than desirable circumstances. In a cold winter time period - say in northern Alberta Canada or Manitoba without a properly working heat defrost mechanism you are a menace on the road to other drivers and vehicles on roads and highways.
Tags: auto, auto financing, auto insurance, automotive, car, credit financing, dealers, family, garage, home, transportation, truck, women
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Thursday, October 1st, 2009
by Lawrence U. Olson
When it comes to auto ownership few problems can be as concerning, frustrating and ultimately expensive as fluid links. It seems like nothing can draw more attention and concern than a puddle underneath your vehicle. The one thing that you can be sure of is that its new and was not there before- otherwise you would have spotted it.
It is fairly standard to state the all drivers, and even their passengers are advised and recommended to periodically check the underside of their car as well as the pavement over which the car, truck or SUV is parked as an early guide to leaks. Checking all fluid levels on a regular basis is a must as well ” not an option.
What fluids should you check on a regular and ongoing basis? First is the radiator ” or what is referred to as the rad fluid. The radiator dissipates engine heat so that your engine temperature stays just right. Radiator fluid is a varying combination of glycol antifreeze and water. It is usually colored as well, so that leaks are fairly obvious as to origin and also their liquid appearance. Too little rad fluid and your car will run hot. In addition if your radiator fluid level is low your heater may not give you the heat you need to stay warm in your car in the cold Canadian winter time.
Next in line is brake fluid. Loss of brake fluid can be downright dangerous as you may well have lost braking ability. Transmission fluid loss can lead to mechanical failures down the line. It can be checked via dipstick under the hood. Both transmission and power steering fluids are similar products ” a light oil type liquid usually with a reddish, almost rose color. Gasoline itself can leak from a tank. You should be able to discern and odor if gas leaks. Take great care as gas itself is very flammable, and on top of that a gas leak can lead to an engine fire.
It may be no secret why your good friend advises you to “park your car on the street”. Simple motor engine leaks from your underneath your car , may be only an inconvenience to you , but to others may be very difficult to remove if not unsightly to their driveways and roadways. If you do have to park in such a situation and the oil pan on the bottom of your engine does leak , be considerate and bring along a large piece of cardboard to place under the engine of your car , truck or SUV while parked.
It is an amazing fact when it comes to company cars. Some of these drivers have nothing but mechanical troubles , downtime and straight misfortune when it comes to their vehicles , repair costs , time off the road for auto vehicle repairs , and even safety concerns when it comes to B.C. and Alberta mountain driving. Other commercial drivers seem to have trouble free vehicle maintenance reports. In most cases experienced Edmonton based auto industry analyst M.U. Labovitch notes it comes down to simple preventative and ongoing vehicle maintenance schedules and routines.
Tags: auto, auto insurance, auto news, automotive, consumer, dealer, garage, home, insurance, news, suv, transport, truck, usedcars
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