Posts Tagged amount
Understanding The Windshield Repair Process
Posted on November 10, 2011 | Automotive Repair.
Although many windshield replacement professionals make the process of replacing a windshield seem like a simple task, there are actually many steps that are involved towards ensuring that you receive high quality results. Because most people only use auto glass services to repair and replace their windshields, most people do not realize the amount of workmanship that is associated with the procedure.
Initially, some services will want to check for any other damage that may exist before they begin on the installation of your new windshield. As they set up for the repair, your vehicle will be covered in certain places to prevent possible future or further damage while handling the repair. First, your original auto glass will need to be removed from the vehicle, including any moldings, trim, wipers, and the cowl. Because damaged glass doesn’t often remove as easily as you may imagine, the service personnel will use a special knife to help them remove the glass.
The new auto glass will need to be sized accordingly to fit into your vehicle. For a proper fit, the original urethane from your previous auto glass fitting will need to be cut down. Urethane is used as a seal to keep your windshield in place during use. Debris from cutting will be removed by the service personnel afterward. To ensure that the windshield is the right size, it will be tested on your vehicle without any seal applied before it is installed. A urethane sealant is then selected for the installation. The type of urethane that is used can depend on the circumstances, such as the current temperature, how long you can wait before using your car again, humidity, and even the presence of your air bag. Because of the typical weather in Phoenix, Arizona most services choose a urethane that will be able to handle the dry conditions within the area. Primer will be applied to the appropriate areas and the inside portion of the glass will be cleaned prior to installation. The windshield is also prepared by cleaning and wiping the edges with a special glass solution. Primer and urethane are then applied to the edges as well.
The replacement windshield is set in place and adjusted so that it is centered with the vehicle. The service will then install new moldings to further help set it in place correctly. Your windshield wipers and the cowl will be replaced, as well as anything else that was removed to perform the windshield replacement on your vehicle. Service personnel will then check the windshield replacement for proper installation and the occurrence of any air leaks. The vehicle is cleaned up and you will be given instructions about how to care for your vehicle after the installation. Generally, you will be advised not to use your vehicle for a certain period of time until your windshield is finished fully setting.
There are many quality auto glass services in the area which will perform these exact tasks while providing you with a windshield replacement. When you have a better understanding of the steps that are involved with these services, you will have an appreciation for the workmanship that is involved and also know how to detect a quality installation from the services that you have chosen.
Important Tips Regarding Oil Change For Your Car
Posted on October 30, 2011 | Automotive Repair.
It is no doubt very important to get your car’s oil changed on-time. However, since it is about the most valued part of your car, the engine, it is extremely important that you have necessary information about it like quality to use, timing of change (whether it really is important to change car oil after 3000 miles), and many other tips. You may not be close to an auto repair shop or you just want to do-it-yourself, a friend of mine in Fairfax, VA gave very helpful tips regarding this:
1. Do not change oil while the engine is hot. Let it cool for a few hours. It can burn you badly. Allow it two hours at least to cool before starting. When engine is hot, its temperature usually touches 250 degrees. It can burn you badly. Another reason why you should cool the oil down is that all deposits settle into the bottom of the pan.
2. Oil chemistry and engine technology have now improved to the point that most cars can go several thousand more miles before changing it. So 3,000 miles oil change is not necessary for all the cars.
3. Although most cars take 4-5 quarts of oil, you must however owner’s manual for the recommended amount is required and more importantly recommended grade of motor oil to be used. Do not overfill.
4. Make sure the parking brake is set and start the engines in a well-ventilated area after you change the oil. Its pressure light may be on, but it should go out after a few seconds. Once the light goes out, allow the engine to run for a few more minutes.
5. Show responsibility. Protect the environment and conserve resources by taking your used oil and filter to your nearest used oil collection center. My friend visits a used cars center in Alexandria after do-it-yourself oil change to dispose-off used oil.
6. If you are traveling on bike or car for a long journey and you think your car needs oil change, here is a great tip to get help. The locals can buy the used oil from you. They buy and use it to paint on the underside and foundations of houses. It prevents termites from eating the wood. So, if you’re on the road and want to change the oil, just walk up to one of the houses and tell them that you need to change your oil. They will help you if you ask them to bring their own container to take used oil.