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H E C K |  |
E N G I N E |
Check your
Engine
CLICK HERE TO SEE HOW AN ENGINE
WORKS
Most
engine repair jobs are better off performed by a qualified mechanic but
with a few tips you can carry out minor repairs and serivicing yourself
or just make sure that you're not being ripped off by a dodgy garage.
Click here for a guide to navigating your
engine bay
It is always a good idea to listen to your engine regularly. Even when you're
driving you can spot a new knock or rattle that wasn't there yesterday.
Your engine shouldn't make any knocking noises or rattle usually. Different
noises will mean different things and allthough could be something and nothing
it could be the engines death rattle.
Some knocks and rattles can be from things other than the engine eg exhaust
system, etc but an engine knock should increase in tempo along with the
engine revs.(As you rev the engine the knocking gets faster too). If the
knock only occurs when the car is moving and not stationary then the problem
is probably with the transmission.
Knocking from the bottom of your engine is usually Big end Bearings. A big
job, costly and time consuming because the engine usually has to come out.
This could mean replacing the crank bearings and maybe regrinding the crank.
This will end up with a slightly weaker crankshaft as it is thinner because
of re-grinding. This process has limited applications on the same crank.
Knocking from the top of the engine usually means either little ends (Piston
bearings) or Camshaft wear. Camshaft knocks are usually loud and hollow
sounding where as little ends are deeper and more of a solid sound.
The best way to make sure that the problem isn't one from above is to watch
your engine when running and watch for something moving with the same frequency
as the noise. Check pipes, leads, exhaust pipes (Careful- HOT). make sure
everything is secure and that the battery is firmly located. Although tightening
a screw or bolt could cure your rattle most of these jobs are best given
to a qualified mechanic.
Servicing is something that even the average man can do for himself. Part
of the service should be fluid checks. Something you can easily do yourself
and something you should be able to do more regularly than just once a year
at a cars service interval. Most fluid levels should be checked at least
once a month. Refilling fluid is a lot easier than repairing the car after
you've just hit a lorry because you're brake fluid was too low!!
Most fluid levels can be easily checked...
| AUTO
FLUID LEVELThe fluid level dipstick is usually found under the bonnet on the
gearbox side of the engine in the main the dipstick is coloured . (The photo shows
it to be orange) The fluid level should be checked with the engine at idling speed
at normal working temperature with the gear lever in the P (for parking position)
and the vehicle parked on level ground.
(Checking at normal temperature)
Remove dipstick, wipe clean with a lint free cloth, replace dipstick by pushing
it back as far as it will go, take out dipstick and check that the level is between
the indicator markings MIN and MAX at normal temperature the reading should be
at full mark (topping up is made through dipstick tube)
(Checking when hot)
Note that after long journeys, when the gear box is still very hot the levels
should be between the indicator marks MIN and MAX (refer to your owners handbook
for specification and oil type). Automatic transmission fluid ATF
Click
here for more information about transmission fluid
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 | BATTERY
TOP UP DISTILLED WATER The majority of batteries today are maintenance free
and don't require top up.
If your battery has easily detachable tops then
a top up may be required from time to time. In this case simply remove the tops
and top up the cells with distilled water just above the visible plates.
IMPORTANT Lead acid batteries contain electrolyte-(sulphuric
acid) and is highly poisonous and very corrosive
Click
here for more information about Batteries
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 | BRAKE
FLUID LEVELS
As brake pads and shoes normally wear down, the brake
fluid level in the reservoir will drop, therefore from time to time this will
need to be topped up. Simply remove the cap and top up to the level indicated
on the reservoir, the fluid level must not exceed the MAX mark.
Some
cars use the brake fluid level as an indicator for brake pad wear. These should
not be topped up unless leaking. When the fluid gets to the bottom marker of the
resevoir you should check your brake pads for wear and.or leakage. More
Information...
Never use brake fluid
that you are unsure about.
Consult best before date. If in doubt
always use a new bottle.
(Refer to owners manual for
fluid specification.)
For more information about brake fluid specifications click
here...
|  | ENGINE
COOLANT TOP UP
The coolant level must be checked when the engine is cold,
and must not be below the MIN mark on the reservoir nor should it be above the
MAX mark.
When checking coolant level do not remove
the cap from the reservoir whilst the engine is still hot, as you have
the risk of scalding yourself.
IMPORTANT the cooling system is under
pressure, always remove cap slowly to release the pressure before fully removing
it.
|  | ENGINE
OIL LEVEL
The engine oil level must be checked with car on level ground
and whilst the engine is still hot, approximately 10 minutes after switching off
engine.
The oil level must be between the MIN and MAX indicators on the
dip stick.
The space between the MIN and MAX corresponds to approximately
one litre of oil, the oil level must not exceed the MAX mark.
If the
engine is hot, be careful of your hands under the bonnet area, as you have a risk
of burning yourself. Also the electric fan may start up and cause injury.
Click here for more information about oil
Click
here to see what type of oil you should use for your car
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