Maybe you’ve already done some mechanical work, but would you like to improve your skills?
If you’re already able to do some simpler tasks like changing the oil of the car or removing the rust from it, it is time to embrace more attractive mechanical projects.
Some tasks may seem quite difficult at first, but by performing them, you will be able to evolve and take your mechanic skills to another level. Read more to find out how.
Mechanics: 3 tasks that will improve your skills
The tasks that we are going to show you may require a little more preparation and, in some cases, some specific auto tools. After successfully completing them, you will find that you are much more prepared to face different vehicle repair works – and, who knows, to open your own auto workshop.
Take note of these 3 new tasks that will improve your mechanic skills.
1. Replacing the brake pads
To replace the pads, you will need not only to dedicate some of your free time but possibly invest in a few more auto tools. You will need a good set of wrenches, a jack, threstles, wheel wrench and a specific tool to push the caliper’s piston.
Before getting started, it’s important that you understand when is the right time to replace the car’s brake pads. To do so, you need to be aware of braking difficulties (the car takes longer to come to a complete stop), any vibration during braking, squeaking metal noises or even visual signs of wear.
Each pad replacement starts by lifting the car with a jack and removing the wheel – remember to put trestles too, in order to ensure your safety.
After that, remove the brake caliper. If the discs are also worn, consider replacing them as well.
You can remove the used pads and insert the new ones by using a brake repositioner.
Since it involves using different types of tools and already requires some skills, learning how to replace the brake pads is definitely one of the things that can help you become a better mechanic.
If you are unsure about the tools to use, contact your trusted supplier. He will certainly know how to help you.
2. Replacing a car battery
Battery maintenance is undoubtedly a very important task, and also a skill that you should acquire as a mechanic.
Ensuring that the battery is in good condition helps not only to prolong its life but to offer the best possible car performance in all conditions and circumstances.
Therefore, it is important that you make frequent inspections to your car to make sure that it doesn’t show symptoms of weakness or deterioration, and also to understand when is the right time to replace the battery. The first step to replace a battery is to disconnect the terminals, by removing the negative lead first, and only then the positive lead. They are usually fastened with small screws and need to be loosened with a wrench or ratchet.
In order to avoid sparks and possible damage, make sure that the terminals do not get into contact with the battery or any metallic part of the car after being disconnected.
Then, remove the battery-holder and the battery. Clean the area below before installing the new one.
If you’re ready to install the new battery, secure it correctly in place and then connect the terminals. This time, connect the positive lead first.
To avoid corrosion problems, coat the terminals and clamps with an anti-corrosion gel before completely reinstalling the battery. It is important to check if the terminals are securely fastened in before starting the car.
3. Inspecting the cooling system
Maintaining the cooling system is another important task that promotes the health of the engine.
This can take you some time, since the cooling system has several parts that are difficult to locate and reach, but learning how to do it is definitely worth it.
When checking the cooling system, make sure you check the following parts: coolant, water pump, transmission belt, radiator, radiator caps, thermostat, cooling fan, heater and radiator hoses.
Start the vehicle inspection by checking for signs of coolant leaks near the hoses and the radiator, and make sure that there are no other damages to the hoses.
The second step is inspecting the cooling fan. Check if it is twisted or if the cover is loose or damaged. If your car has an electric fan, carefully inspect the electrical connector to see if you can detect any corrosion.
Then, shift your focus to the water pump. Check that the gaskets and bearings are in good condition and also look for corrosion. Also, check the seal for leaks and pay attention to any creaking or noise, which is another sign that it is starting to fail.
The coolant is essential to prevent the engine from overheating, or even not freezing in very cold temperatures.
Before checking it, remember that you can only open the radiator cap when the engine is completely cold. Check the level in the reservoir and, if needed, add the coolant recommended by the car manufacturer.
If you really want to improve your mechanics skills, you need to spend a lot of time practicing these and other tasks. Remember that having the right tools is crucial for your job to be done efficiently.
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