Car Care For Economy

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30057, 15 February 1963, Page 12

Car Care For Economy

Proper maintenance of a car is just as important as good driving habits for maximum fuel economy, according to a veteran economy rup driver Mr L. Viland. an American Motors engineer. Driving a 1963 Rambler American, Viland posted a record of 29.18 miles a gallon in the 1963 performance trials at Daytona Beach. The 3.7 mile road course included one stop sign and a 65mph speed zone to simulate average driving conditions. In preparing the car for high economy, the careful break-in of a new car, in line with the manufacturers’ recommendations, is a primary requisite for better than average economy and performance. The engipe should be properly tuned every spring and autumn. The carburetor should be adjusted and the spark timing checked care-

fully. Tappets should be in correct adjustment. Spark plugs should be changed every 12,000 miles. Viland says that while spark plugs generally last longer than that, old or worn plugs have a marked effect on fuel economy. Lubricants also play an important part in good fuel economy. Oils and greases of proper weight specified by the manufacturer should be used. Heavier lubricants add to friction, resulting in poorer economy. Another important item to check is the proper operation of the thermostat. The thermostat keeps the engine coolants at the proper operating temperature. If it runs cool, fuel distribution is affected and engine oil becomes heavier. Below-nor-mal operating temperatures also cause more sludge to form in the engine oil, which results in shortened engine life. Periodic checks for proper front wheel alignment add to fuel saving Viland says. Under-inflated tyres also decrease fuel economy. Tyres should be inflated and maintained at the pressure specified by the manufacturer.