Pack Up All Your Cares And Woes
The Sun Herald
Sunday March 27, 1994
EVER packed up the car and kids, ready for a great vacation, only to be stranded on the side of the road with an overheated radiator, snapped fan belt or a short in the battery?
According to the NRMA, many vehicle breakdowns can be prevented if people complete a simple 10-minute maintenance check before leaving.
The NRMA's check list includes:
* Check battery level and connections: Remove battery caps and check that the liquid is about 5mm above the level of the plates inside the battery. Top up with distilled water only. Replace the caps and test the connections to make sure they are tight. Wash away any corrosion with hot water and coat the battery posts and connections with petroleum jelly.
* Check dipstick engine oil level: If there is no oil level showing on the dipstick after several attempts, do not start the engine. Check for an oil leak and call the NRMA or your garage.
* Check brake and clutch fluid levels: Fluid is used as the brakes wear. If excessive fluid is needed for the reservoir, your brakes may need attention. The clutch reservoir, for cars fitted with a hydraulically operated clutch, should also be checked regularly. If your car has a cable clutch, check that it is not too loose or tight where it passes through the bulkhead.
* Check all hoses and pipes: Follow all pipes from one end to the other and check that they are tight and do not have stains showing leaks. Any hoses that are very soft, kinked, sucked in or swollen should be renewed.
* Check all wires and connections: Follow each wire including the spark plug wires and check that they are firmly connected and do not rub against any part of the engine or car.
* Check operation of all controls: With the engine switched off, check all controls for tightness and function. You should notice any excessive brake pedal travel or loose gear lever linkage.
* Check the play in the steering wheel: With the wheels pointed straight ahead lightly swing the steering wheel from side to side. The play should not exceed 50mm measured at the rim of the steering wheel.
* Check all warning lights: An illuminated brake warning light could be the result of a loss of pressure, low fluid level or low pad friction material. If the oil and brake lights do not go out at any time, stop and seek assistance. If the ignition light does not extinguish go to a garage or auto electrician for help.
© 1994 The Sun Herald
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