Ideal Engines – Explanation of a Modern Brake System
This will be an attempt to familiarise you with a typical modern day brake system found on many passenger cars. The brake system I will be referring to has ABS brakes and is comprised of the following major components; the brake pedal, the vacuum brake booster, the master cylinder, a proportioning valve, front and rear brake hoses, front brake callipers, rear brake callipers or wheel cylinders depending on if the vehicle has rear drum or disc setup, brake discs, brake pads, and brake shoes. Those are the mechanical side of the brake system, the ABS portion of the brakes comprises of the ABS pump, the modulator valve, and the vehicle speed sensors.
Now, going down the line as they work they can be described a bit more fully. As you depress the brake pedal it is connected to a lever under your dash which goes through the vacuum booster and then into the master cylinder.Without the assistance of the vacuum booster the brake pedal becomes very hard and unresponsive, with the vacuum booster working properly the pedal depresses and pushes the plunger in the master cylinder to force brake fluid to build pressure in the brake lines.
As pressure is built up in the lines it travels through the proportioning valve which routes the right amount of fluid pressure to both the front and rear brakes. Without that valve the vehicle would not stop properly as because many vehicles are much heavier at the front than the rear, if they had the same pressure both front and back, the rear brakes would lock up and cause the back of the car to slide out because of loss of traction.
After passing through the proportioning valve the fluid is router to (front wheels- through the brake hoses and into the callipers)(rear wheels- through the brake hoses and into either wheel cylinders (drum brakes) or brake callipers) as the fluid compresses in the front brake callipers they cause the pistons to compress on the brake discs causing friction that in turn stops the vehicle. As the fluid goes to the rear it passes through brake hoses into either wheel cylinders or brake callipers, if it is a read drum system the brake fluid pushes out on the pistons in the wheel cylinders pushing the brake shoes against the inside of the brake drums creating friction to allow the vehicle to stop. If it is a rear disc brake set up them it works the same as with front discs.
The ABS or antilock brake system is an independent system from your normal service brakes, it is plumbed into the regular system and fluid does pass through it but it has its own design function all triggered by the vehicles speed sensors. If a speed sensor notices a tyre has come to a stop while others are still rotating it will stop adding pressure to the wheel that has stopped and actually release the pressure until that wheel begin to turn at the same speed as the other wheels on the vehicle. It then cycles itself in order to add fluid incrementally to all of the wheels to allow a controlled stop.
That is the most basic description of a current brake system that I can give without breaking down each part and making this a four thousand word essay, I think I will leave that for a later day.…
Forego the High Payment For A New Car and Pay Cash For a Used Part
With new vehicle prices soaring and the economy sagging, people are faced with a choice, purchase a new vehicle and struggle with a high monthly payment or maintain an older vehicle and save money. Today more people are making the decision to keep and maintain their current vehicle, rather than deal with a high monthly car payment.
While maintaining an older vehicle can save money, the price of the parts needed to maintain a vehicle can quickly add up, this is where used parts come in to play. Used parts cost on average 25 percent less than new parts.
Used parts, also referred to as refurbished parts, although less money, often come with comparable warranties to new parts. Warranties on used parts range from 30 days to 3 years and certain parts like engines and transmissions have a mileage stipulation. Many of the mileage stipulations follow new car warranties, such as: 3 years or 36,000 miles.
There are other benefits to using used parts besides saving money, maintaining a vehicle with used parts is a healthy choice for the environment. When parts are refurbished and reinstalled on another vehicle, the demand on natural resources such as aluminum, copper and oil are lessened. It is estimated that 85 million barrels of oil are conserved each year by the current amount of parts being reused.
Another environmental benefit of using used auto parts is that greenhouse gas emissions are reduced due do a lessen need for new “virgin” parts. The majority of greenhouse gases produced by part manufacturers are during the production of new parts and since used auto parts reuse the major part components, there is less need to manufacture parts like engine blocks and transmission cases.
Some vehicle owners are weary when it comes to purchasing used auto parts, fearing that the used part may not have the same quality and dependability as a new part. Used auto parts are rebuilt to meet or exceed the auto manufacturer’s original specifications.
Using used auto parts to maintain a vehicle is a no lose situation, maintaining an older vehicle relieves the burden of high monthly vehicle payments and is a healthy choice for the environment.…
Reasons for Car Crashes in Oklahoma
Traffic accidents are among the main reasons for death and injury in America. In accordance with the reports from the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration, car accidents take place nearly every 8 seconds. Throughout Oklahoma, thousands of people are killed each year due to motor vehicle accidents and many more individuals are severely injured. Since cities such as Oklahoma continue to expand, population increases and traffic activities are becoming heavily congested. Some this congestion leads to negligent or reckless driving, which put the lives of motorists and pedestrians at risk every day.
During 09 alone, the police in Oklahoma responded to numerous incidents and 564 of this figure happened at the top ten hazardous intersections in the city. All these 10 intersections are situated on the western side where the traffic is extremely heavy. Three of the top dangerous intersections are Pennsylvania Avenue and Memorial Road, Interstate 240 and Memorial and Northwest Expressway and NW 63.
Last year, approximately 93 auto accidents occurred at the Pennsylvania Avenue and Memorial Road intersection, which included injury, hit-and-run, drug related, non-injury and drunk driving. NW 63 and Northwest Expressway intersection had 63 auto accidents during 2009 and the Memorial and Interstate 240 claimed the third spot for being the most detrimental intersection throughout Oklahoma.
Newly released research have revealed that negligent driving makes up about 81% of the car accidents which take place in this city. In some instances, the motorist might appear to be focused on other things besides what is happening on the road. In other situations, the drivers might be intoxicated from drugs or alcoholic beverages. The outcomes of an automobile accident might be long-lasting injury as well as death; however with safer driving practices those consequences could be definitely avoided. The police in Oklahoma City have recommended the installation of red light cameras around the higher accident regions, with the goal of lowering the amount of motorists who run the red lights and in so doing possibly stopping future incidents.…
Auto Repair Options and Locations
There is a lot of debate about who the right resource is for auto repair. Some swear by the service at the local mechanic shop. Others refuse to have anything at all done anywhere but the dealer. Both have valid claims. So, how does one decide what to do? Fortunately, there are some basic guidelines to consider.
For one thing, if a vehicle is still under warranty and part of that requires that a dealer perform all service, then do not, under any circumstance, void the warranty. The amount of money that one stands to lose by not allowing the manufacturer to pick up the tab for parts and labor is staggering. As long as the work is complimentary or inexpensive, keep it up. There is no reason to start paying out-of-pocket when it is not necessary.
On the other hand, sometimes a dealer is not the most knowledgeable. Yes, they may have all the manufacturer tools and parts, but the person turning the wrench could be on their first day on the job. Whereas, a local mechanic might specialize in one make of car and the employees there could have been working on these vehicles exclusively for thirty years. Obviously, the experience and the knowledge regarding how this type of engine and this car runs are invaluable.
That being said, the local guys often use whatever parts are fastest and least expensive from their distributor. This may work fine for some things, but not having exactly the right part can mean that things get rigged to work. Parts that maybe are not the best choice or exactly right for the engine or job may be used instead. Most of the time, this will not be a problem, but it is unlikely that a person wants to be on the receiving end one of the times that an auto repair is an issue.
Because of this debate, many feel it is best to go to an authorized service station that brings the knowledge and friendliness of a local mechanic to the professionalism and quality of a dealer experience. Here, one will find reasonably priced auto repair that is of a higher level of quality. In some cases, going to these places does not even void the warranty.
Also, it is nice to find these large franchised national companies as an auto repair provider because they can do a lot of different types of work and they can do it fast and right the first time. The best part is that while a national company backs them, they are staffed by local people and owned by a local person. So, the experience is far friendlier and more courteous than you would expect from the neighborhood mechanic.…
What to Do When a Dealer Cannot Get Parts For Your Car
When the main dealer does not have the parts you require for your car repair, this can be very frustrating, especially when you have taken time out from your busy lifestyles to visit the main dealer just to find out that the parts are not in stock because your car is too old or because you do not have a part number. This could lead you to feeling helpless and none the closer in finding your parts. However, don’t fear there are other options.
This article will aim to help parts searchers to find the parts they are after from different places other than the main dealers where they can find the parts by not paying way over the odds.
Finding parts when you DO NOT have internet access?
If you are looking for parts for your car and you have already been to your local main dealer that has told you that they do not stock your parts anymore, then a good alternative is to visit your local motor factor parts shops. These shops will sell mainly new parts from service parts i.e. – oil filters, brake pads and brake discs to more mechanical parts like engine parts – timing belt kits, head gaskets, suspension parts – springs and dampers. Even though these parts are not original manufacturer parts, they are termed ‘replacements’ parts, but are generally manufactured to a decent standard by recognised companies such as Bosch & Siemens.
Some motor factor shops will provide pretty good guarantees, with some providing a minimum of 3 months guarantee. The advantage to these parts is that the price is always a lot cheaper than main dealer prices, however, bear in mind that the quality of the part is not to the same standard. This could be a useful option though as in today’s economic downturn, it could get you back on the road and save you money. In addition, you could also try using the Yellow Pages or ring telephone directory companies (watch out for these as they can be expensive call charges) to broaden your search when looking for motor factor companies in your area. Broadening your search will give you more options of where the parts are located but more importantly where you can get it for the cheapest price – all from the comfort of your own home.
Finding parts when you DO have internet access?
If you have internet access then you have a big advantage when searching for your car parts before you even start your search. Going online to search for your car parts means you are going to get a lot better deal on your parts as you can explore websites from all over the UK. Most companies offer next day deliver services so the issue of travelling to get your parts is not even something you have to consider. In today’s world, the beauty about website’s and buying from them is that they are open 24/7, so surf and look for your parts when its convenient FOR YOU.
The other advantage of going online compared to motor factors is that although they cater for the minor parts, such as, oil filters, brake pads & brake discs to more mechanical parts like engine parts – timing belt kits, head gaskets, suspension parts they DO NOT cater for wing mirrors, alternators, engines or gearboxes – website companies can find the majority of parts you are after.
I have not got time to be exploring the net to find my parts?
This is true in many cases and let’s face it, everyone would prefer to be relaxing and enjoying themselves rather than be looking for car parts all evening. If this is the case, then another recommendation is to use a part location website.
These website specialise in finding new and used car parts, and are brilliant on price comparison. The advantage of using these websites is that you tell them what you want and they ‘compare the market’ across the majority of breaker-yards in the country for you, and then they get you the cheapest price. In addition to saving you time and money, you will also be doing your bit for the environment in recycling car parts, will be getting genuine parts to the same quality as the dealership parts, and they will give you guarantees on parts and next day delivery service is provided.
In conclusion, if the main dealer does not have your parts then do not despair, and don’t get stressed out. If you have internet access this will be the best way to get your parts, for the best price and when it is convenient for you. By using individual websites or using the ALL IN ONE …
Long Term Consequences of Motor Vehicle Accidents
According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, in The United States, someone dies every twelve minutes, and every fourteen seconds someone is injured, in an automobile accident. Statistics show there are approximately six million automobile accidents yearly, which result in three million injuries, two million of which are permanent, and approximately forty thousand results in death.
In over half of the accident related deaths, the deceased were not wearing their seatbelts. Over forty percent of accidents were alcohol related and over thirty percent were caused by excessive speed and another thirty percent were caused by reckless driving.
More Than Skin Deep
We are all aware that automobile accidents cause deaths and injuries in the thousands every year, but did you know that besides short and long term physical ramifications that there may also be short and long term psychological ramifications? Anxieties and phobias caused by automobile accidents affect thousands of people every year. Studies show that even in low impact, non-injury accidents that people may suffer from some manner of post-traumatic stress disorder for from a few months to a year or more.
In a study of more than 1,000 men and women who had been taken to a hospital after an accident, most of the persons were shown to have recovered from any psychological impact within three months to one year. Others experienced the effects more long term, and others were shown to have suddenly developed anxiety and other symptoms months after the accident. Most of the people with prolonged psychological disorders were passengers in the accident rather than drivers.
These fears or anxieties ranged from fear of riding in or driving a car, to a complete cessation of riding or driving. Just like long term physical problems, long term psychological problems can have an ongoing detriment to your health, as well as other aspects of your life. Persons may experience long term stress that affects their sleep habits and work performance as well as cause problems in their personal relationships and that these problems may compound and lead to long term depression.
Therapy Helps
Often, just as with physical injury, persons may benefit from therapy or drug treatment for their anxiety or depression caused by involvement in automobile accidents. Just remember, an injury doesn’t necessarily have to be physical to have long term effects on your overall health and well being. Therapies can be beneficial in many ways and can be discussed with your doctor.…
Haven’t you wished you knew more about dealing with potential car problems? Have you wanted to make sure you can fix a vehicle yourself if a problem arises? Maybe you just want to know how to choose a good mechanic. Read on so you can educate yourself.
You should wash your car often to avoid rust. All cars eventually succumb to rust, however you can delay this process by washing all salt and chemicals from your car immediately. Protect your paint with good wax.
Keep all of your car records handy. Store them inside the glove compartment just in case you have to see a mechanic all of a sudden. Repair professionals may want to see these records for repair purposes. They help them figure out what’s wrong quickly.
Be careful of mechanics who will do unnecessary work on your vehicle. A good mechanic should let you know if they noticed parts that are starting to get worn down and will need to be replaced soon but they should not replace the part without your approval. If you notice a mechanic has made unnecessary repairs to your vehicle, do not go to the same one next time.
Make sure your headlights are clean if they don’t look as bright. Sometimes, dirt from the road transfers over to your lights dim them. A good quality glass cleaner will help to clean them right up.
Learn about your car so you can determine the problem in advance and save money. You can save a lot of money by diagnosing it yourself, and it could also protect you from being a victim of fraud. You may already know that a few mechanics sometime engage in dishonesty if they think they can make a larger profit.
Make sure any mechanic you hire knows about your particular vehicle. While most vehicles are made in similar ways, a lot of the time things are fairly different under the hood. If you aren’t sure, take your car to get serviced at the dealer.
Keep a spare tire and a jack with you all the time. Many new cars have these. The cost of a tow for a flat isn’t worth it! Changing your tire is a simple process that can save you an expensive visit from an auto service club.
A daring do-it-yourself approach isn’t always the best idea. Be sure someone is watching you repair the vehicle just in case something bad happens. Buy some good quality tools that will last. This is especially true of your tire changing equipment. The jack you buy needs to support your vehicle well. This is why you should get a high quality hydraulic jack with stands.
Many corrupt shops will change out your tires and put in older ones. They can make money this way. Take a piece of chalk and mark the tires prior to dropping off your vehicle. Make sure you check your tires before you leave the garage to make sure they are the ones you drove in on.
Don’t get stuck thinking you’re at a loss regarding repairing your vehicle. Apply the tips given here and take charge of the situation. Now, you can see that there are some things you can even take care of yourself.…