Rod Hall Racing

Basic Car Maintenance Routine That You Should Not Miss

July 24, 2021August 23, 2021 Nathanael Bradford

Now that it is summer once again, you must probably be driving more often. The sun can be superhot and you may not be able to walk or ride your bike even when going to short distances. By driving your car, you can just turn on the aircon or open the windows for a feel of some fresh wind.

But while you need your car for the most part of the summer season, it should not be new to you that motor vehicles are more susceptible to car damage during hot summer days. This should be a good reason for you to regularly check your car. A well-maintained car will assure you that you do not encounter hassles going to places to escape the heat of summer

Here are some basic car maintenance task that you can easily do at home.

Clean and Sanitize Wind Shield

Regularly cleaning and sanitizing the windshield of your car is must this summertime. This is because it can become dirty more easily as dust are everywhere because the roads are dry. If you skip cleaning the windshield for a day or two, visibility can be affected. With all the dust on the windshield, you may not be able to see clearly through it. This can be a reason for a road accident.

When cleaning your windshield, dusting off the dirt may not be enough. During this time, we should all be cautious of disease-causing microorganisms. Cleaning with water and a strong detergent can ensure that all harmful microorganisms are exterminated.

But when on a long trip over rugged roads, stopping over a gas station to clean your windshield can be the best way possible. This will again give you a clear view.

Check the Motor Oil Level

The performance of your car’s engine depend much on the motor oil. Without it, moving parts of the engine can easily wear and tear. Its primary function is to transfer heat and traps disposes off byproducts. While most people coincide oil checks when they go to gas stations for fuel, you can actually do it yourself. This will prevent engine trouble while on the road.

Inspect Tire Pressure

It is vital to always check the tire pressure. While it is advised to let it be checked when every gas fill-up, you can do it yourself every time you come home after a long drive. If you see that the tires are improperly inflated or are losing air, let it be inflated ASAP. Under-inflated or over-inflated tires have greater risks of being blown out. With high temperature this summer, you can expect that pressure in your tires can fluctuate.

3 Reasons to Keep Your Car in a Well-Maintained Condition

June 15, 2020June 27, 2021 Nathanael Bradford

There are so many reasons why you should maintain your car regularly most of which are positive. Regular car maintenance not only ensures the maximum performance of your car. A small defect may seem irrelevant at the start, but it can become a major problem, in turn, increasing the maintenance costs.

Makes the Car Safer to Drive

Most of us are aware that the condition of a car determines the safety of any drive. If the car fails to run properly, safety risk of the car occupants as well as those on the road increases.

For example, if the tires are not properly inflated, your chances of getting a flat tire is high. Therefore, to prevent any accident when on the road, you should ensure that the car is regularly inspected for any faults which can undermine your safety when driving.

Improves Fuel Economy

This is one of the reasons why car maintenance is very important. A well-maintained car performs impeccably and runs better. Failing to follow the set oil change schedule prevents the car from running normally. This is because engine oil lubricates the internal parts of the engine helping the car to run smoothly. Regular oil change also lowers the car’s maintenance cost.

Also, regular car maintenance improves fuel economy. This is because a well-maintained car runs better and is more fuel efficient. With the high increase rate of gas prices, car maintenance will save you lots of money you could have spent on fuel. Always check the fuel lines, tire pressure and change the filters as per the recommendation by the manufacturer.

Prolongs the Car’s Lifespan

The main aim of maintaining a car regularly is to prevent major car problems rather than repair. Checking the light, tire pressure, the level of fluid, battery and brakes regularly not
only ensures safety when driving but also prolongs the lifespan of the car.

This means that the car will last longer, and it will operate better. In addition to extending the lifespan of your car, the sale value of a well-maintained car is way higher meaning you will get a better return on investment you decide to sell the car.

Five Must-Have Tools for DIY Auto Mechanics at Home

April 16, 2020September 24, 2020 Nathanael Bradford

If you’re a car enthusiast, you know a garage can be so much more than the space to park your car. In fact, wih a little hard work and dedication, your garage can be a place to work, hang out and showcase your vehicles. Whether you’re in the planning stages or just daydreaming about the future, here are eight elements of the ultimate car lover’s garage.

1. Car Lift

Every DIY mechanic would love a two- or four-post car lift that would allow them to not only work on the undercarriage of their vehicle, but also provide a means to double their overall parking space. Now, if your garage has a low-ceiling, a mid-rise scissor lift will be able to raise your vehicle three feet off the ground, allowing you to still work safely underneath. Shop for home garage lifts that feature a best-rated four-post lift called the TRIUMPH NSS-8 and a top mid-rise scissor dubbed the BendPak MD-6XP.

2. A Custom Flooring

Make your garage more inviting and the flooring more durable with an epoxy/polyaspartic coating, which comes in a variety of colors. These types of floors are stain-resistant, easy to clean and more resilient than concrete alone. Plus, you’ll help ensure your garage floor remains in quality shape for years to come, while being the envy of all your neighbors.

3. Band Saw

So we have no screaming need for a band saw, but we want bandsaw for the money anyway. It can cut large sections of metal without the mess of lubricant. The company says that the bearings on the roller guides effectively hold the blade steady, which reduces the wobble that causes heat friction. Other features include a blade-tensioner adjustment that automatically applies the correct tension and a variable-speed 1.6-hp motor. It costs $1075.

4. Tools, Tools and More Tools

If tinkering on cars and trucks is your favorite hobby, then you need a garage equipped with all the best tools. Stock your garage with everything from sockets and wrenches to a large-capacity compressor. For inspiration, check out Complex.com a list of 25 tools for gearheads.

5. Storage Cabinets

Of course, with all the tools, supplies and spare parts you have on hand, you’ll need to install custom storage cabinets to house it all. Investing in a storage system will allow you to organize your tools so you can easily find what you need for any project before closing the doors to eliminate clutter.

Preparing Your Car Before a Road Trip

August 19, 2019April 11, 2020 Juliet Yanez

Road trips require your car to be at its finest form if you do not want to go through annoying possibilities, such as damaged brakes and engine failure. Things like these can be a big deal, especially if you are a road traveler who cannot wait to be on your next journey. Tour de France is a great event to follow, and you can use it as an excuse to be out there on the road, making your way to the city where it is held.

You need to do several things to prepare your vehicle before the long trip. During the journey, you will use your car a lot that it requires some maintenance to avoid the above scenarios. This article discusses several things you need to do as a way to enjoy your road trip without having to experience machine breakdowns.

Electrical Equipment

The first thing you need to check is the electrical equipment. It includes cables, wires, headlights, interior lights, and speedometer. This aspect should always come first during maintenance since it plays quite a significant role. First, the headlights and the turn signals guarantee your safety. Second, the cables and wires will make sure your car will go smoothly. It is advisable to do some preparations before going, including inquiring about the nearest workshops along the way, keep a spare headlight bulb just in case the bulb burns out, and keep the car’s manual.

Windshield and Windows

The windshield is also another essential part of a car that should never be ignored. You should check the condition to see if it has cracks or holes that can potentially turn into danger. If you spot any, it is better to replace the glass and the windshield. Remember that the windshield will protect you from road elements and the weather, making it vital to check this part and replace it with the new one if necessary. Experts suggest taking your vehicle to the nearest windshield repair center and let the staff check to see if it needs replacement.

Heating and Air Conditioning

Driving in four-season countries brings a lot of seasonal challenges, not only for your car but also for you. For that reason, your car needs to have proper heating and air conditioning system. Without these aspects, it can be too hot or too cold to drive around.

Advantages of a Short-Term Car Lease

July 30, 2019December 13, 2019 Nathanael Bradford

A short-term car lease is an agreement where you lease the car for a period of 1, 3, 6, 9, or 12 months. A month is usually 28 days. With a short term car lease, the lease period is not more than 12 months. This is a good option for people who love driving the latest cars without owning them.

If you love driving a new car in all terms, a short term car lease might be right for you. Unlike long term car leases, the monthly repayment for a short-term lease might be higher, but that is the price you pay for driving a new car. Here are some advantages of a short-term lease:

Flexible Contracts

With a short-term car lease, you get flexible contracts. The contracts can be as short as 28 days, and as long as 12 months, you have to choose the right time for you. This is a good option for business people who need to use a car for a short time.

It is also suitable for when going on vacation to a new city and you need a car to use while there. In the case of using taxis that can be expensive, you get a short-term lease.

Cheaper Than Hiring a Car Daily

Apart from a short-term car lease, the next option is to hire a car daily. When hiring a car everyday, you end up spending a lot of money because you pay for the daily expenses.

The best way to save money on car hire is to hire on a short term basis. Hiring on a short term basis is more expensive than the long-term lease, but it is definitely worth the cost.

No Long-Term Commitments

Long term commitments can be costly. When you hire a car on a long term basis, you are forced to stick with the car even if you do not want it.

The best thing with short term basis is you can give up the car at the end of the short lease. In case you cannot keep up with a long-term commitment, consider a short-term lease.

Drive A New Car All the Time

The main advantage of a short-term lease is driving a new car all the time. If you want to explore as many cars as possible, consider getting a short lease. You will get a chance to drive multiple cars without owning any of them.

How to Make Your Skiing Experience Wonderful

July 29, 2019April 11, 2020 Nathanael Bradford

Whether you are a seasoned skier or you are first getting into the game, it is your dream that anytime you plan for the event; it becomes successful. However, there are things that if you do wrong, you will never get to enjoy the skiing experience. So if you are planning for a skiing tour such as fwt ski, you need to make sure that you put the following points into consideration. They are meant to help you have a wonderful skiing experience.

Get a Nice Car

Your preparation starts with how you plan for the journey to the skiing destination. A nice car, in this case, means a car that will enable to carry all the gears that you will need for smooth skiing. Not all cars are meant to go for these occasions, and this is why you need to choose wisely. It will be a good idea if you hire a car rather than using yours and you end up having a horrible experience. There are several car rental companies to check for all types of cars that you feel will be appropriate for such events.

Arrive Early

If it is a skiing tour that you are planning for, then it will be a good idea if you arrive early. Arriving early means that you will get enough time to familiarize yourself with the venue. In addition to that, you will get the opportunity to inspect your equipment and make the necessary adjustment if need be. You will also get to identify slopes that you will need to keep off if you are not well experienced.

The Right Clothing

When it comes to skiing, you need to avoid bad clothes by all means possible. Wearing the wrong clothes can get you into health problems. The right clothing ensures that you have a great experience during the entire skiing period. So if you do not have the right clothing, you need to make an effort and get to shop before you embark on your journey.

Fluids and Snacks

Proper nutrition is important when it comes to sports. It is basically what will give you the energy that you need during the entire occasion. Therefore, you must choose the right drinks and diet before depart for your skiing ventures. Some of the best choices that you will need to include in your packing list include fruits, chocolate, and nuts. Drinking water is a must as you will need to take breaks for a water drink.

Self-sealing Tires and Why They Are the Best for Your Car

July 21, 2019 Nathanael Bradford

Tires are responsible for the smooth movement of your vehicle. You may get a flat tire on several instances, which is very frustrating. Well, this usually happens because most tires have a tube filled with air. Stepping on sharp objects or extreme expansion are some of the things that may cause a flat tire. There have been several improvements with new sets of tires that keep you going even after a puncture being produced.

Some of the common types you will get include run-flats and self-sealing. You don’t have to worry when you step on that nail or experience a puncture when you have these tires. Run-flat tires have a system designed to offer support to your vehicle even after getting a puncture. You will keep going for a while.

The self-sealing type contains a sealant that plugs the hole or opening once you get a puncture. A tire sealant is a type of thick liquid that can be refilled. It is usually filled into the tire and starts distributing evenly when your wheel is spinning. They are commonly used in tubeless tires. This is one of the best options to use in your car and stay free from punctures. Here is why self-sealing tires are the best.

Does Not Affect Your Ride

Trying out this tire option cannot affect the quality of your ride in any way. You will have a smooth and normal ride even after experiencing a puncture. It is just a layer or some form of liquid that is filled in your tires. Unlike other options where you may be forced to drive slowly after a puncture, using a sealant helps you maintain the same pace without exposing you to any risks.

Can Be Mixed With Other Tires

The other good thing about self-sealing tires is that you can mix them with traditional tires of your vehicle. They are commonly used in tubeless tires, which makes it suitable for such. You will still have the right wheel balance when you mix self-sealing tires with the old type.

Suitable for All Vehicles

There are cars that usually come with a pressure tire monitoring system while others don’t have. Self-sealing tires are the best for vehicles that don’t have a pressure tire monitoring system. There is no need to worry about experiencing a puncture because the sealant works instantly to prevent your tires from going flat.

Driving Habits That Damage Your Vehicle

July 21, 2019July 21, 2019 Nathanael Bradford

Owning a vehicle comes with its set of responsibilities. You have to maintain your car in the right way if you want it to serve you for an extended period. Failure to observe such practices may bring about problems that will make you spend a lot in its maintenance. You may experience regular breakdowns as a result of engine problems. The value of your car also reduced significantly if you fail to observe different maintenance practices.

Selling it would be a bit difficult, and it may even go for a price lower than you expected. There are different practices you should carry out to ensure your automobile is in the right state always. Regular inspection and servicing is essential. There are several auto shops out there where you can take your car for servicing. Taking your vehicle to these shops helps ensure that is well-inspected.

You will find different experts who will check the condition of your engine and other parts of your vehicle to make sure your car is in the right condition. You also need to carry out regular oil change to get rid of impurities from your engine and reduce the chances of damage. How you drive can also determine the state of your vehicle. Several driving habits can damage your car very fast. Here are some you need to avoid.

Hitting Potholes

Driving through speed bumps and potholes is one thing that can get your car damaged very fast. There is usually some high-level impact produced when you hit potholes or drive through speed bumps. The effect produced can leave several parts of your car loose or damaged. You should avoid potholes at all costs and drive carefully at night to avoid hitting them.

Overloading

It is another thing that can make your vehicle wear out very fast. Heaping more weight on your car strains your breaks. It can get damaged very fast as a result. You should read your vehicle’s manual to know the amount of weight you are supposed to carry. This reduces the chances of damaging it as a result of overloading.