If you're mechanically inclined enough to tackle a timing belt or chain, you probably know that when you're replacing a timing belt or chain, it is absolutely critical that the camshaft(s) and crankshaft be synced and timed properly. This is usually done by a series of marks on each timed gear or sprocket that … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: DIY Timing Pointers
Sometimes installing an A/C (air conditioning) compressor can be a pain; wrestling a 20lb. compressor above your face, contorting your arms in all sorts of unnatural positions, needing three gorilla mitts where only the hand of a preschool child will fit, all while trying to get just ONE bolt started so the whole thing won't fall … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Honda A/C compressors
Check out the first EVER video from the Service Station Blog! I was having trouble shifting Henry's 3-on-the-tree transmission now that it's getting colder because the nearly 50 year old grease in the steering column thickens up when cold. During the summer months it was no problem, but when the mercury dipped into the teens … Continue reading First EVER Service Station Video!
If you have a 2004 (except Heritage) - 2008 Ford F150 or similar truck with power windows that work sporadically or not at all, then thispost is for you! A new master switch for the F150 isn't really all that expensive ($40 or so for a Dorman), but I'm always up for saving a … Continue reading Ford F150 Window Switch Repair
Ahh, the dreaded Ford "3 Valve" 5.4 V8 and it's ludicrous spark plug design. Available from 2004 (except the Heritage model) through 2008ish in Ford's full size SUVs and F-Series trucks, these engines are overall very durable and reliable. These spark plugs have stricken fear into the hearts of many DIYers (and some seasoned technicians!) … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Ford 5.4 Triton spark plugs
Tire pressure refers to the air pressure (PSI, or pounds per square inch) inside each of your tires. Too much and too little are both bad. Much like other areas of life, it's all a matter of balance. To little air pressure could cause poor handling, poor fuel economy, reduced load capacity, longer stopping distances, … Continue reading The Importance of Tire Pressure
Drum brakes can be a pain. The average DIYer probably feels they have the ability to perform a basic front brake job, but drum brakes can be pretty intimidating if you're not familiar with them. While I won't get into a complete walkthrough in this post, I will give you a few tips to make … Continue reading 7 Tips for replacing drum brakes
"But you dedicated an entire post on how to change your own oil. What gives?" You know WHY to change your oil (right?) and probably when (check your owners manual to be sure), but let's delve into the whys and why-nots of the DIY oil change. I'm not saying you should never change your own … Continue reading Why You SHOULDN’T change your own oil
Most people know they need to change their oil and filter and perhaps even their air filter, but there are a number of "forgotten filters" on cars and trucks these days that are often neglected. We'll be focusing on the fuel filter today. Fuel filters should be replaced every few years or about 40-50k miles … Continue reading Fuel Filter Replacement – 2005 Mercury Mountaineer
Adding oil to a vehicle's engine is something that nearly all of you have probably done at one time or another. This basic task has been performed countless times by technicians knocking out a routine PM (preventive maintenance) service, DIYers tackling another oil change, and first-timers who just bought their first quart of oil at … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Pouring Oil
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