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Backyard Mechanic Articles

  • QUESTION: I have a 2011 Dodge Journey and have an unusual problem. I have been putting an aftermarket audio system into the vehicle and removed the seats and carpet to run wiring. The problem is with the windshield wipers. Even though the key isn't on, the wipers will run in …

    April 27, 2012

  • AUTO TECH: All-wheel drive is the safe way to travel

    Some people confuse all-wheel drive with four-wheel drive vehicles, which have been built for much longer than all-wheel drives. So what's the difference? All-wheel drive vehicles are designed to operate with all wheels propelling the vehicle under all driving conditions. The system is designed to allow different wheel speeds between the …

    April 20, 2012

  • QUESTION: I have always wondered how a four-stroke gas engine really works. At 2,000 or 3,000 rpm how can the piston pull in gas, then compress it, then the spark plug fires, the piston goes down and the whole process starts again? I can't believe this happens so fast that …

    April 20, 2012

  • AUTO TECH: Bigger is better with brakes

    In this era of rising fuel costs, vehicle manufacturers are using all kinds of techniques to improve fuel economy. Smaller engines, aluminum alloy body parts, high-strength but thinner steels and more plastic parts are but a few methods used to reduce body weight. The less a vehicle weighs, the better potential …

    April 5, 2012

  • QUESTION: I have a 2003 BMW Z4 (E 85 roadster sports suspension) with 18-inch tires that are wearing on the inside edges. After having a four-wheel alignment, the report states excessive cross castor. The castor is non-adjustable and the car drives OK. Front camber is adjusted to maximum positive setting …

    April 5, 2012

  • AUTO TECH: Mazda's new CX-5 compact SUV gets it right

    Mazda has just introduced a new compact SUV named the CX-5. Known as a company that provides a sporty feel in their passenger cars, Mazda has upped the ante with its new SkyActiv powertrain, body and suspension design for the CX-5. This new vehicle is the first to incorporate their complete …

    March 30, 2012

  • QUESTION: I am the owner of a 2009 Chevrolet Colorado 4x4 Extended Cab Z71. Tire size is P265/70R17, as stated on the equipment group sticker and driver's door post tire pressure label. Inspection of the front stabilizer bar indicates tire contact with the bar on the driver's side at extreme …

    March 23, 2012

  • AUTO TECH: How top-choice Voltec system works

    Much has been written about the Chevrolet Volt and deservedly so. The Volt has won many awards for its innovative concepts, with the most recent being the Automotive Journalists of Canada (AJAC) award for the Best New Technology. AJAC's 12-member technology panel were presented with many new technologies this year and, …

    March 9, 2012

  • QUESTION: I have a 1999 Ford F-350 dually. The rear brake cylinder is leaking and I am going to replace it. The brake shoes are not very worn, however, they have brake fluid on them. Can I clean the shoes with a cleaner like brake parts cleaner and continue to …

    March 2, 2012

  • QUESTION: I noticed in the past, you favoured winter tires over studded tires. Have the studded tires improved any? I'm considering the Nokian HAKK R, and the Nokian HAKK 7. The HAKK 7 seems to be an excellent soft tire with studs. Any comments would be helpful. Laird ANSWER: Nokian makes …

    February 17, 2012

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