GENERAL TIPS

Hello, and welcome to MFU's general tips. Starting with a weekly check list. Now I know what you are going to say - "I'm too busy". Well we can all say that but with just ten minutes spent each week you can avoid breaking down when you least expect it. Start with the engine compartment and then move on to the rest of the car.

(1) Check the oil level (if low top up).

(2) Check the oil level in the carburettor dash pot (if low top it up).

(3) Check the water level in the radiator (add more water if low).

(4) check the water level in the windscreen washer bottle.

(5) Check the fan belt, there should be approx 13mm (half inch)play up and down. Adjust if loose.

(6) Check all lights and indicators plus the horn, don't forget the hazard lights if fitted.

(7) check that all tyres are correctly inflated, also check for stones / nails in the tyre tread. Don't forget the spare.

(8) Quickly check that the CV boots are not split, it could save you costly repairs.

(9) Check the handbrake - should hold on an incline. Also check that the brake pedal is not spongy in operation.

(10) Top up brake and clutch fluid if required. (Brake and Clutch fluid should be changed each year).

(11) Check condition of windscreen wipers. (Replace if edges are feathered or slits are visible).

(12) Check battery electrolyte and top up with distilled water (except the sealed type of battery).


3 Monthly check .......... All of the above but in addition the following.

(a)Lift off the distributor cap and check the condition of the points. If pitted or there is a raised pip on the contacts replace them with new. Do not attempt to repair them - its just not worth it. With the distributor cam in the correct position set the gap to 15 thou (0.38mm)make sure that the set screw is really tight. Given the cost of a condensor its worthwhile changing this at the same time.

(b)Remove each spark plug in turn and check for worn or damaged electrodes - if still in good condition check the gap and reset if required 25 thou (0.635mm) NOTE: later models may have a different gap setting, refer to the manual / handbook for the correct setting.

(c)Check the hand brake quadrants - these quite often seize up. Free them off if stuck.

(d)On all drum brake models check that they are correctly adjusted. The rear ones are easy to check as the wheels will rotate freely when turned by hand. Refer to the manual for the adjusting procedure. Front ones are more difficult as they have the resistance of the drive shafts working on them. If the front wheels have disc brakes check that the calipers are moving freely and check the condition of the pads. Refer to the manual for the minimum thickness. Check handbrake operation. Road test the vehicle for overall brake efficiency.

(e)Check that the wiring to the coil and distributor is in good order. Replace any frayed wires and re-terminate with the appropriate terminal.

(f)Grease all the suspension joints - refer to the manual for their locations.

(g)Check for play in the wheel bearings and balljoints - refer to the manual for the test procedure.

(H) Check condition of the fan belt.

(J)Check condition of driveshafts and steering rack rubber boots. Check front wheel alignment.

6 monthly check......all of the forgoing plus the following.

Change oil and filter (As the gearbox shares the engine oil its a good idea to change it around 4000 miles or so). check and adjust clutch return stop - refer to manual. Lubricate the throttle linkages, check / Adjust the ignition timing, check / adjust idle speed of the engine and CO2 level. Check the steering column pinch bolt (located at the base of the column). Check cooling and heating pipes for perished rubber and leaks.

For more comprehensive information refer to workshop manuals such as those published by Autodata or Haynes

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