Dave Redinger - Neighbourhood Mechanic
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Dave Redinger who transitioned to his Heavenly home on February 7, 2022 was a licensed auto mechanic with over 40 years in the trade. He operated Dr. H. Honda Specialists in Etobcoke (Toronto). Dave was heard here on The Auto Channel, RIP Dave your knowledge and helpfulness will be welcome by concerned motorists forever.
October 25, 2005
First Dave’s Ditty:
Tires are directly affected by air pressure. Low tire pressure will reduce the tire’s ability to carry load, cause over heating, premature wear and waste fuel…….The side of the road is not the best place to shop for new rubber.
Dave Help!
I have a 2000 Honda Civic with approximately 90,000 kilometers.
When I drive slowly I hear a squealing noise which I think is coming from the front wheels. Lately I notice that when I apply the brakes the noise goes away. Do I need new brakes or is it just something simple?
Ilyse
Sounds as if you have a brake pad that’s dragging. The majority of the vehicles on the road today have some form disc brake design. Disc brakes have several advantages one of which is the ability to absorb a lot of hard use. However; this design requires regular maintenance. Have your mechanic inspect the brakes and advise you. As this is a safety item don’t put off this repair. Brakes should be inspected and serviced every 6 months, usually before and after the winter season.
Hi Dave:
I have bought a Ford Escort , it has been standing for the last 12 months and at present it is still standing. The problem is that when it starts there is a tappet rattle. It sounds more like it’s coming from the injectors. Any ideas?
Mark
This a tough question to answer without listening to the car. A properly running engine; once it has reached operating temperature, runs smoothly and silently. Sounds as if you may have a more serious problem than just noisy tappets. Most Ford engines adjust the valve lash hydraulically. Valve lash is directly affected by oil pressure. If the oil pressure is low noisy tappets are one of the warning signs. Have the engine inspected by a professional. Some noises can be the precursor to costly engine failure. Sorry…..
Dave Redinger will answer questions from viewers each week, to ask you can e-mail dave at stikky@ca,inter.net or go to http://www.am740.ca/">www.am740.ca
Dave's Past Columns