AUTO SUGGESTIONS.

Manawatu Times, Volume 63, Issue 39, 16 February 1938, Page 12

AUTO SUGGESTIONS.

Loose U Bolts. Loose front spring U bolts are responsible for a great deal of steering difficulty for which they are not blamed. When the car steers “hard' 5 and the mechanism is in good order and properly lubricated, inspection of the springs often reveals the trouble. Keeping the U bolts tight keeps the spring leaves in lino, helps steering, prevents spring breakage, and adds to riding comfort. The bolts can be checked to good advantage every month or so. Luggage Carrier. Loose luggage on a motor-cycle carrier can cause a most disconcerting roll, and the secret of securing it firmly is very simple. Never pass the strap or rope right around the luggage and carrier, but around the nearest carrier tube and back, iastening the twQ ends on top of 'the luggage. The same remarks apply to the luggage carrier on a car. Irregular Running. When an engine runs irregularly at low speed, it gives very uncomfortable travelling. This is sometimes called bucking, and is often caused by the ignition. A check up of the breaker mechanism is advisable, as the trouble will generally be found to be that the breaker points have become worn or out of adjustment. Oiling Springs. A point to consider about oiling springs is, “When are they over-piled V’ Flexible springs are essential to easy riding. To keep a spring flexible, it is necessary to lubricate. If a spring does not “bottom” (collapse), one need not worry about over-oiling. However, some cars are equipped with thin spring leaves, which are extremely flexible. Most of the oil and grease applied by the average motorist never gets between the leaves, and is wasted. A penetrating oil or a graphite grease mixture is best. Loose Shackle Bolts. Loose shackle bolts permit byplay between the shackles and the spring ends, which, at times, causes rattling noises. If lightening the bolts effects no appreciable movement, the placing of one or more shims, or strips of metal, between spring and shackle will eliminate the play. Do not allow mud to accumulate, as small, Mrd particles from it are likely to find their way in between the working parts and cause excessive wear.