Q-The temperature gauge in my 1991 Eagle Summit rises above the normal temperature operating range. After the fourth visit to a Jeep/Eagle dealership, the technician decided to replace the sending unit that operates the gauge. The temperature reading was normal for a month, but then it started to rise. Now the gauge reads as it did before the sending unit was installed. What should I do? M.M., Kingston, Wis.
A-The temperature gauge is not a gauge; it`s an indicator. It tells you the approximate temperature of the engine. If the indicator is not showing hot, the engine is OK. The temperature of the cooling system may hit 220 degrees without boiling or overheating the engine. Because the engine could be damaged if it is overheating, ask a technician to check the cooling system, temperature gauge and sending unit. He should take the temperature of the engine with a thermometer. He might find that the system is working normally or that something such as the temperature sensor, electric cooling system fan or a thermostat is malfunctioning.
Q-I`ve always owned Dodge trucks and vans. Right now, I`m thinking about buying a Ford Club Wagon van. Other vans I`ve owned have dented from the inside out when something like furniture has shifted and bounced against the side. What do you think of the Ford Club Wagon Van? G.M., Chicago
It`s big and roomy and has double-wall sheet metal construction, so when kids accidentally bang a bat against the inside when traveling to a game, the dent won`t show on the outside. The powertrain is reliable, too. With a 5.8-liter engine, expect to get about 15 urban miles per gallon. The engine compartment is fairly accessible once the interior cover is removed. That takes about five minutes. Spark plug replacement and air filter servicing can be done fairly easily. One problem does exist: A major electrical junction box is directly under the brake master cylinder. Brake fluid could drip or spill on to the box and wreak havoc with the connections and wiring.
Please refer to the enclosed copy of my repair receipt. Recently, I took my daughter`s 1982 Oldsmobile 98 with 87,000 miles in for a tuneup and oil change. When I brought the car to the shop, I mentioned to the service person that I heard a clicking noise from the engine and asked him to check it out. Later that day, he called to tell me that the emission control pipes had rotted and needed replacement. I feel the bill is fair, but with so much attention focused on add-on repairs, I`d like your opinion. Can you tell me if you think the bill is fair? J.J.L., Orland Park
The recent publicity about alleged auto repair fraud has made consumers nervous. It`s every auto technician`s and service adviser`s duty to inform customers about existing and potential problems with your car. If he doesn`t, you could be stranded on the road or worse. Most technicians and service advisers are honest. In your situation, you alerted the service person to a clicking sound. The technician found that the emission tubes were rusted and leaking. That is common. Because the clicking is gone, the technician must have made a proper repair. Referring to your repair order and my industry standard labor and repair manuals, all the parts and labor charges seem to be fair and customary. The repair cost $480, but your daughter has a car that runs properly.
I own a 1971 Volkswagen Beetle. A co-worker suggested that I flush the engine with kerosene to remove sludge from the engine. He says he treats his Chevy to internal cleaning when he does an oil change. He drains the oil, then fills the crankcase to the proper level with kerosene. He runs the engine for a few minutes, then drains the kerosene. To finish the job, he fills the engine with oil. Is this a good practice, and what fuel economy should my VW get? K.M., Elmwood Park
What your friend does will clean the engine, but it`s not a good practice. The kerosene could ignite and cause a fire. Also, the kerosene that remains in the engine will dilute the new oil and ruin its lubricating qualities. That could lead to major engine damage. As for the gas mileage, as I recall, the highway m.p.g was about 17, city around 14.
I`m a doctor who has been in practice for 50 years and knows human anatomy, but I don`t know the anatomy of a car. Recently, an auto mechanic said that my 1989 Buick Regal needed sensor pads on the front brakes. The car operates fine. Could you please tell me what this part is, its location and probable cost to fix, and what would happen if I fail to replace the parts?
Dr. M.P., Chicago
The mechanic is referring to a small metal tab that protrudes from the front disc brake pads, attached to the front wheels. As the pad wears, the sensor contacts the disc brake rotor and vibrates, creating a shrill squeak. That noise is supposed to warn you that the brake pads need replacement. It`s similar to the sound my knees make in the morning. I suggest that you ask for a complete estimate for the repair. According to my book, the cost may be $180. It`s customary for the repair to run about $140.
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Phil Arendt is manager of automotive information for the AAA-Chicago Motor Club. Readers may send technical questions about cars and trucks to him at Dr. Gizmo, AAA-Chicago Motor Club, 999 E. Touhy Ave., Des Plaines, Ill. 60018.
