Not All Motor Oil Is Up To Snuff, Says The American Petroleum Institute
The American Petroleum Institute (API) has evaluated results from its annual motor oil testing program and determined that almost one in five samples of bulk motor oil purchased from the marketplace in each of the past five years have failed to meet API motor oil performance standards.
Tech Tip: Adjustable Clutch Master Cylinders
Following a new clutch installation, there is nothing worse than experiencing slipping or release problems. Many times installers even begin to believe that the new clutch kit is defective. This is not correct, in most cases! The majority of the time, a simple, quick adjustment will alleviate any problems. Most Japanese/Korean imports utilize an adjustable clutch master cylinder. When a new clutch kit is installed, the master cylinder needs to be re-adjusted to work properly with this new kit and avoid release and slipping problems.
Gonzo’s Toolbox: Lost In The Owner’s Manual
Hardly a day goes by when I’m not changing oil in a car. It’s a simple task to perform, but, today, you must also reset the oil reminder system. The procedure varies from model to model and year to year. Sometimes, I figure that since I’m right there by the car, I might as well find the owner’s manual and look up the procedure myself. But, for some reason, not one manufacturer can come up with a method of putting the information in one convenient spot.
Tech Feature: Can You Lift It?
You can only make a few mistakes with a lift before it costs more than the lesson is worth. What you don’t know can hurt you if you are using or even buying a lift. The first thing any tech must do is to know what they are lifting. If possible, look at the sticker on the door jam to find out the weight of the vehicle and distribution. But never take this number for granted. Look inside the vehicle to see what the driver is carrying and where the weight is situated ….