September 27, 2009
DIY, How To Auto Repair
17 Comments
Summary: In this auto repair blog we cover the basic timing belt R&R procedure on common Mitsubishi 2.5, 3.0, 3.5 and 3.8 V-6 SOHC engines. These interference engines can sustain valve damage if the timing belt breaks. We’ve got suggestions that can help make the job of replacing the timing belt and/or water pump successful. Listed are different Chrysler and Mitsubishi models that use engines with the same basic design when it comes to water pump and timing belt replacement. Also a diagram for timing belt routing and marks for the 3.5 SOHC.
Read the rest…
September 12, 2009
Automotive Consumer, Featured Car Video
No Comments
Summary: In this article we cover the Smart car and how it was named. The Smart car obviously gets great gas mileage, however with it’s miniature size how does it hold up in a crash? The Crash test video shown in this article helps to reveal how it measures up when it’s involved in a collision. Our exclusive pictures show how small the Smart car really is, we couldn’t resist the temptation to compare it with a golf cart.
An interesting fact is how the Smart car was actually named. The Smart car was originally a project of the Swatchcompany (a Swiss watch maker). Prior to it’s final naming, Swatch approached GM and then VW for for possibly teaming up to produce then nicknamed Swatchmobile. GM and VW ended up declining the proposal to produce the Swatchmobile. Daimler-Benz and Swatch ended up coming to an agreement to produce the car. That’s when the name “Smart” was created as an acronym from Swatch Mercedes (SM) ART.
Read the rest…
September 6, 2009
DIY, How To Auto Repair
3 Comments
Image courtesy of PansyPatrol
Summary: In this auto repair blog, we answer readers questions about brake bleeding, one of which is about frozen bleeder screws. Question: Can you bleed the brakes if ALL the little bleeder valves on each corner are froze? What do I do? Serious Screwed? Thanks ya’ll
It’s no surprise, rusty bleeder screws (and other under carriage parts) like you describe usually get rusted from being exposed to salt. In northern states affected by snowy winter conditions come into contact with salt on roads used for de-icing. In ocean front communities like here in Florida a lot of vehicles are exposed to salt when launching boats and jet skis. I’ve worked on my share of rusty brake lines, calipers, wheel cylinders and suspension parts. Working as a mechanic near Tampa in the 80’s and 90’s I could always tell if a car was from
up north. I always said if every vehicle I worked on was rusty from salt exposure I would be looking for a new profession!
Read the rest…
September 5, 2009
Auto Technician / Mechanic, Automotive Consumer, Service Writer
9 Comments
Summary: In this article we point out a common problem with Nissan automobiles equipped with the 3.5 Liter engine that causes engine tapping noises typically on cold start up. The engine has variable timing cam sprockets, three timing chains, three tensioners and three guides. Vehicles subject to similar issues may include Nissan Altima, Maxima, Murano, 350Z, Infiniti G35, G37, EX, FX, M series and QX4.
Read the rest…
