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Date: 13 Apr 2006 12:39:47 -0700 From: "hoza.2nospamedu" <hoza.2nospamedu> Subject: Re: how to take care of older cars?
At that milage I would have the entire front suspension and steering checked and rebuilt as needed. (ball joints, drag link, tie rod ends, etc.) For me this is a high priority because failure of one of these parts can lead to a loss of control and possible accident and it isn't always obvious that one of these parts is about to fail. Also, the car will often "feel like new" with a front end rebuild. Beyond that following the manufacturers recommendations works well. Even people who are good with changing the motor oil often neglect transmission fluid & filters. I know that some cars have "life time" fills in the transmision but I do not trust this and never go more than 50Kmi with transmission fluid (I use synthetic) I would also change fluid in the rear diffeential if the car has one. I think it is a good idea to change the brake fluid every year or perhaps every other year and the same for the antifreeze. It is not a bad idea to replace the fuses as these often corrode over time. If your car has a timing belt be sure that it is not past due for renewal. Also, all A/C systems leak to some extent and a recharge with new filter is not a bad idea. An inspection of ignition wires and parts along with all rubber hoses can save you trouble. Of course you want to inspect the belts but also take a look at all the pulleys, belts, and tensioners to see that they are running true and doing their job. It is also a good idea to be sure that any of the small drain hoses in the body are not plugged as this can cause a corrosion problem if a blockage is not attended to. I hope that helps. I am sure others will have more suggestions but that is what I try to look at. Mike
