Discover the expert in you.
Discover the expert in you.
During times of lower energy costs, installation of residential ductwork often was regarded as an opportunity to cut building expenses, rather than as a critical component of energy conservation. Frequently, ductwork installed during original construction was not designed to last the life of the house. Today, owners of those homes are paying the price for these errors with ductwork that may no longer be fully functional, or duct design that is inadequate for the goal of providing comfort and efficiency.
Throwing out furniture always requires you to keep a few important things in mind for the best results. Throw out furniture with help from a master precision craftsman in this free video clip.
The 1992 was nothing if not versatile. Available in dozens of different configurations and trim levels, the ninth-generation also offered no less than five different engines and seven different transmissions. In this model year, the F150 used manual transmissions with both concentric -- integrated -- and external slave cylinders. The bleed procedure for both is similar, but you'll have to do a little more work to bleed the external cylinder.
With a 2.2-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission you 1997 Camry was built to conform to either federal emissions or California emissions. If your vehicle is built to California emissions you will have a catalytic converter as part of the exhaust manifold and a second converter midstream in the exhaust piping. A clogged catalytic converter on your Camry will share the same tale tale signs as other vehicles experiencing the problem. The catalytic converter is very important to protect the environment and is required by law in most states to me emissions standards.
It seems like such a simple thing, installing a new catalytic converter. But, as with any ostensibly simple thing, there are about 400 different ways to mess this up and hurt yourself, the car or the cat in the process. A few simple safety precautions can help to prevent any mishaps and ease installation.
While Chevrolet applied the name to all of its medium-duty pickups in 1998, the Silverado trim package dates all the way back to 1975. A lot has changed since then, including the addition of emissions equipment like catalytic converters and the computer systems that help to diagnose them.
Many vintage Mustangs came with a three or four-speed manual transmission. The clutch on these models is operated by an equalizer rod that is attached to the upper end of the clutch pedal. An assist spring is used to reduce the amount of effort required to push in the clutch pedal. The assist spring also acts as a return spring, which brings the pedal back to its upper-limit stop when the clutch pedal is released. Replacing the assist spring can fix symptoms, such as a clutch pedal that is hard to depress, a pedal that stays on the floor when…
Many 1971 Chevrolet half-ton trucks came with manual brakes. This means that the brake master cylinder push rod is connected directly to the brake pedal, a set-up which requires more pedal effort to apply the brakes than a vehicle that has power brakes. Adding power brakes to your truck can be done by installing a brake booster in between the master cylinder and the brake pedal. With the right parts and a few tools, your 1971 C10 truck can have power brakes.
The Tiger 900 was a 865 cc inline-triple-cylinder adventure-sport motorcycle produced by Triumph from 1993 to 1998. Like any other vehicle, the Tiger used an exhaust system to carry the spent mixture of fuel and air out of the engine and away from the rider. An exhaust leak occurs when there is a compromised seal in the exhaust system, which can reduce the motorcycle's reliability, as well as exposes the rider to potentially dangerous exhaust fumes.
Honda followed the successful release of the Civic with the Accord in 1976 and produced the first-generation until 1981. A larger second-generation Accord was produced from 1982 to 1985. Honda continued to make larger, more powerful Accords with a third-generation – 1986 to 1989 – and a fourth-generation from 1990 to 1993. Subsequent generations followed in 1990 to 1993, 1994 to 1997, 1998 to 2002, 2003 to 2007, and 2008 onwards. The 1995 Accord uses a hydraulic clutch that is self-adjusting and compensates for wear on its own; however, free-play at the pedal can be adjusted. A complete lack of…
Mazda completely redesigned the Miata for the 1999 model year with a completely different look. Many enthusiasts were relieved that Mazda left well-enough alone underneath. The 1999 Miata still used the same 1.8 liter four-cylinder engine that was used in the first-generation cars. The stock single-exhaust pipe is attached to a cast-iron exhaust manifold that is bolted to the engine. A cracked manifold will allow exhaust gases to enter the passenger compartment and should be replaced immediately.
If your car is making a whistling noise while simultaneously not accelerating, you have a very specific problem that needs fixed. Learn what to do if your car exhaust is whistling and not accelerating with help from an expert in the automotive industry in this free video clip.
When you replace the spark arrestor or resonator with a piece of pipe, a few key things can happen. Find out what happens when you replace the spark arrestor or the resonator with a piece of pipe with help from an expert in the automotive industry in this free video clip.
In 1953, Ford slightly redesigned its F-series pickups and in the process revamped the names of the F-series trucks; the F-1, F-2 and F-3 became the F-100, F-250 and F-350, respectively. The 2006 Ford F-250 had three engines available, but it came standard with a 300-horsepower, 5.4-liter V-8 engine. This engine, as with all modern automotive engines in the U.S., came fitted with a catalytic converter, which converts harmful gases in the exhaust to harmless ones. Replacing the catalytic converter on the base level 2006 F-250 is a straightforward task
Husqvarna equipped the TE-250 motorcycle with a hydraulically actuated clutch system. The clutch actuator operates similar to a brake system. A hand-actuated master cylinder on the left handlebar pressurizes fluid in the system. A hydraulic line carries the pressure to the slave cylinder on the transmission, which causes the clutch to disengage. Agitation of the fluid in the master cylinder reservoir can cause air bubbles to become suspended in the clutch fluid, leading to a spongy feel at the clutch lever, incomplete clutch disengagement and possible loss of control. Bleed the clutch whenever this occurs, or if the clutch system…
The Z-car lineup dates back to the 1970 release of the Datsun 240Z. The Z-car went through several name changes – 260Z, 280Z and 280ZX – until finally settling on the 300ZX in 1984. In 1990, Nissan revolutionized the Japanese sports car market with the release of a completely redesigned 300ZX. The 1991 300ZX came standard with a naturally aspirated 3.0-liter engine that cranked out a relatively tame 222 horsepower, and it had an optional twin-turbo 3.0-liter that pushed out 300 horsepower. Bleeding the clutch on all 1991 300ZX models is the same straightforward process.
The 2004 Mazda 6S came with a 3.0-liter six-cylinder and a five-speed manual transmission. The 3.0-liter has two exhaust manifolds; one for the left cylinder head and one for the right. Your exhaust manifolds have the catalytic converters built into them, so replacing either exhaust manifold with anything except an OE-style part will cause you to fail emissions testing and may cause performance problems. The process for removing either side is almost the same, but will require a special tool to remove the oxygen sensors.
In 2003, Honda released an all-new crossover vehicle into the automotive realm: the Element. This compact crossover featured an unorthodox body shape, and had interior conveniences that combined elements of an SUV and pickup truck. The 2006 Element came standard with a 156-horsepower, 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and used a catalytic converter to keep harmful emissions under control. Replacing the catalytic converter on the 2006 Element requires transferring the heat shields.
Operating a boat with a leaking exhaust manifold is wrong on many levels. If the leaky manifold is hissing like a tea kettle, it may be caused by one of two things: a damaged exhaust manifold water jacket or a funky exhaust riser. The leaky exhaust manifold can kill you or your passengers with carbon dioxide; the funky exhaust riser can cause your engine to hemorrhage internally. The problem is readily repaired with a new exhaust manifold, riser, hose and gaskets.
The Mazda 626’s production life began in 1979 in an attempt to pique American car buyers’ interest in Mazda. By 1994, the 626 had developed quite a reputation for high-quality in the U.S. market and showed no signs of slowing. The 1994 626 came standard with a 118-horsepower, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine. A catalytic converter mounted in the middle of the exhaust system converts the noxious gases leaving the engine into less harmful vapors. Replacing this all-important emission control device is a fairly simple task that nearly any DIY mechanic can complete.
A Volvo Penta 3.0 marine engine requires periodic inspection for many things. One thing you shouldn't overlook is a check for corrosion or blockage in the exhaust manifold and riser. A Penta exhaust manifold is made of a thin, cast-iron water jacket covering all of the manifold's exhaust chambers. One part of inspecting the joint for corrosion or blockage is replacement of the manifold gasket. If this gasket is damaged or has deteriorated, water leaks into the Penta marine engine, and exhaust gases leak out into your boat.
In baseboard heating, wall-mounted baseboard convectors run along the bottom of walls. Hot water flows through the pipes inside the convectors, radiating heat into the room. They are efficient, but they can be noisy as hot water rushes through them and around your home. Making changes to the heating system requires removing the baseboard units and their pipes.
Iron oxide or rust is a common problem on truck or car exhaust pipes, and if left untreated, rust will eventually eat its way through and destroy the pipe. Motorcycle exhausts, on the other hand, are usually chrome plated, which protects the parent metal from rust invasion. Nevertheless, rust pits can also form on a chromed surface over time; this causes the chrome to flake off if left untreated. In addition, high temperatures turn the shiny chrome an unsightly blue, but this can be polished out while removing the rust blemishes.
Your 1997 Mitsubishi Eclipse Spyder is equipped with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine and a five-speed manual transmission. When you press on the clutch pedal to shift the transmission, pressure is transferred from the clutch master cylinder to the clutch slave cylinder. The slave cylinder piston pushes the clutch release fork, which temporarily separates the clutch disc from the transmission allowing you to shift gears without grinding. A good indicator of a faulty slave cylinder is the clutch not being fully released when the pedal is pressed, which can also be confused for a worn clutch. Your slave cylinder is located…
The 2005 Ford F-150 was just a year removed from the complete redesign that dropped the rounded body in favor of a more truck-like appearance. The 2005 F-150 came standard with a 202-horsepower, 4.2-liter V-6 engine and used a dual catalytic converter system to stay compliant with federal emission regulations. Upon first glance, this dual catalytic converter system appears to be one piece, but once you remove it, you can separate the sides and replace one catalytic converter. Replacing the base level 2005 F-150’s catalytic converter is a detailed task that requires a precise alignment process afterward.
Nissan introduced the Sentra in 1982. The 1994 Sentra is the last of the third-generation Sentras which were produced from 1991 to 1994. The 1994 Sentra is powered by a 1.6-liter transverse-mounted DOHC engine with sequential fuel injection mounted to a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transaxle. The clutch on the manual transaxle is controlled by a cable that the DIY mechanic can easily replace.
Did your Ford F350 get louder all of the sudden? If you have a rusted out muffler you can save some money by getting the parts at a local parts store and replacing them yourself. If it is the original muffler, it is welded to the extension pipe and the tail pipe at the factory, so you will need to replace all three pieces. Before heading to the parts store, check the rubber hangers that are holding the brackets. If they are torn or dry rotted they will need to be replaced as well.
The 4.3-liter six-cylinder engine in your 2002 GMC Sonoma is equipped with many ways to reduce the harmful emissions created from the combustion process, and the most effective way is through the use of the catalytic converter. When the converter becomes clogged, you will likely experience a drop in fuel economy and engine performance. Your converter is located under the passenger compartment and connects between the exhaust manifold and the muffler inlet pipe. To remove the converter assembly, the rear transmission support will have to be removed.
The 2003 Chevy Silverado base model came with a 4.3-liter V-6 and a five-speed manual transmission. The exhaust manifolds are the link between the cylinder head and exhaust piping, and provide a direct path for the exhaust to exit the engine. Exhaust manifolds commonly need to be replaced because of cracking, excessive corrosion or warping of the mating surface. Because the 4.3 has two cylinder heads there are also two exhaust manifolds, each of which has its own procedure for replacement.
Oldsmobile, in an attempt to tap into the younger market in the late 1990s, released the compact and somewhat sporty Alero, which the maker based on the same platform as the Pontiac Grand Am. The Alero ended up being the last Oldsmobile to ever roll off an assembly line, as Olds closed up shop in mid-2004. The 2001 Alero came standard with a 2.4-liter four-cylinder engine that produces a respectable 150 horsepower. The catalytic converter on the Alero is part of the front pipe, so replacing the catalytic converter requires replacing the entire catalytic converter-and-front pipe assembly.
The 2004 Ford F-150 truck with a manual transmission is equipped with a hydraulic clutch release system. Pressure is generated within the clutch system by depressing the clutch pedal. The clutch pedal actuates the clutch master cylinder and supplies pressurized hydraulic fluid to the slave cylinder on the transmission. Air bubbles can become trapped and suspended within the hydraulic fluid, which can lead to a spongy feel at the clutch pedal and incomplete clutch disengagement. The 2004 F-150 trucks come equipped with either an internal or external type slave cylinder, depending on the engine size, and require a different bleeding…
Ford’s 2001 Super Duty truck with a manual transmission is equipped with a hydraulic clutch system that is similar in operation to the hydraulic brake system. Pressure on the foot-operated clutch pedal actuates the clutch master cylinder and pressurizes the fluid within the system. A hydraulic hose connects the slave cylinder on the transmission to the master cylinder. When pressurized, the slave cylinder disengages the clutch plates. Over time, the inner seals in the slave cylinder can become worn and cease to function properly. Replace the slave cylinder using basic hand tools.
Throwing out biodegradable litter needs to be done in a very specific way. Learn about throwing out biodegradable litter with help from an expert in animal behavior in this free video clip.
Cooktops have become a common feature in many homes. These compact stovetops are often installed on kitchen island countertops that serve as the central point for food preparation and entertaining. Cooktops, like other ranges, require venting to remove smoke and odors from the preparation area. Overhead venting systems are often used, but these may create a visual obstruction around the cooktop area. Homeowners can also install a downdraft vent near the cooktop that pulls the smoke away and into a duct system that draws it to the outside.
HDPE pipes are made out of high-density polyethylene. The plastic is commonly used in home products like milk jugs and shopping bags, but it also is employed to create durable plastic piping. The advantage of HDPE piping is its lighter weight and resistance to rust or mold. Scale is also not a common problem with the piping and because of that, it requires less effort to remove than from its iron or steel counterparts.
The TRX 350 was the largest model in Honda's 1987 line of all-terrain vehicles and was produced as either the Fourtrax and the more utilitarian Foreman models. Both models utilize an automatic clutch that allows the rider to concentrate on navigating rough terrain. Over time, the springs and plates within the clutch wear and start to slip, which presents itself as a distinct hesitation while the ATV's throttle is opened. The clutch could be adjusted via an adjustment bolt built into the left crankcase cover to maintain pressure on the clutch plates and eliminate clutch slip.
The muffler strap on a 1999 Chevrolet Cavalier is designed to support the muffler and tailpipe. It's made from galvanized steel and wraps around the entire diameter of the muffler. The muffler strap attaches to a rubber mount that helps to absorb road vibration that resonates through the exhaust pipe. As time passes, the muffler strap can corrode and eventually break. When the strap is broken, you may hear rattling and vibrating at low speeds as the muffler and tailpipe assembly bounce off the rear axle.
Dryers need to be vented according to your local codes. This usually requires that the exhaust line run up to a vent on the side or top of your house. This may necessitate running the exhaust pipe through the attic. Connecting an exhaust pipe in this part of the house isn't different than connecting it in another room, such as a basement, but care should be taken to connect and seal the exhaust properly, both for personal safety and to make sure your clothes become dry in the least amount of time.
The clutch and pulley share the same housing in the Maytag FAV9800 top-load washer. The clutch works with the transmission and motor to change the speed of the washer. The pulley operates the drive belt to pump the water from the Maytag at the end of the wash cycle. Should your washer fail to change speeds or drain after a wash cycle, most likely the clutch pulley assembly has failed, and you will need to replace it.
Ford equipped the 2003 F-150 trucks that have the optional standard transmission package with a hydraulic clutch system. The clutch system consists of a master cylinder, slave cylinder and a hydraulic clutch line. Depressing the clutch pedal actuates the clutch master cylinder, which pressurizes the hydraulic line and slave cylinder, similar to how a hydraulic brake system works. Air bubbles suspended in the hydraulic fluid will lead to a spongy feel at the clutch pedal and could cause clutch drag and gear grind as the transmission is put into gear. Bleed air from the clutch with the engine cold.
A leaking pipe that services the spigot on the exterior of your house may not be caused by loose connections, but instead could be the result of a corroded pipe. Once you determine that the pipe is corroded, you need to stop using the spigot and close its water valve to prevent more water from leaking inside your house. You must remove the spigot from the house before you can remove the old metal pipe and install a replacement.
The only unusual part of a toilet drain assembly is the toilet flange. The flange consists of a narrow opening and a wide opening. The narrow opening connects to drain pipes, and the wide opening mounts to the bathroom's floor with toilet flange bolts. Access the toilet flange and connected sewage pipes by temporarily moving the toilet. With the toilet out of the way, removing and replacing toilet flanges and drain pipes requires only standard plumbing tools and novice-level skills.
Whirlpool residential direct-drive washers use a clutch assembly to help the tub reach the appropriate spin speed at the end of the washing cycle. When the clutch starts to wear out, the tub may spin slowly or not at all. Replacing the clutch assembly in a Whirlpool washer is a lengthy and difficult process that is not for the casual do-it-yourselfer. Call a professional appliance repair technician if you're uncomfortable or unfamiliar with this type of repair.
The exhaust system on your car serves several purposes. The first function is to carry noxious fumes to the rear of the car, preventing exposure inside of the passenger compartment. The second function is to push those fumes through the catalytic convertor to filter the majority of toxins out of the exhaust, saving the atmosphere. The third function of the exhaust system is to reduce the noise significantly. Most stock mufflers that perform this third function cause back pressure that reduces the performance of your car. Installing a high-performance muffler results in less back pressure and more power.
The 1995 Jeep Wrangler was available with a 2.5-liter inline-four or 4.0-liter inline-six cylinder engine. The manual transmission was equipped with a hydraulic clutch system. This system uses a master cylinder on the engine firewall that is connected to the clutch pedal and a slave cylinder mounted on the transmission that actuates the clutch when the pedal is depressed. Hydraulic clutch systems are similar in operation to the vehicle's brake system. The hydraulic clutch system makes it easier to push in the clutch pedal, compared with a mechanical linkage. In 1995, Jeep Wrangler has a unitized clutch system, meaning the…
Believe it or not, lightly glowing manifolds are not that uncommon on diesels, particularly if they've been straining under a load. Even on its best day, the average diesel's exhaust gas temperatures can push its manifold to glow a dull red in low-light conditions. It's something to watch out for, but not necessarily a death sentence for your motor or turbo.
The 2002 Honda Civic comes with a 1.7-liter four-cylinder engine and a manual transmission (if equipped). The clutch system on the 2002 Honda Civic is fully hydraulic, which means it has a clutch master cylinder and a clutch slave cylinder. The clutch slave cylinder is attached to the front of the engine block and extends a piston into the transmission housing. When the clutch is applied, it applies pressure to the slave cylinder piston. If there is air in the slave cylinder, the piston does not extend fully, which prevents the clutch from fully disengaging from the engine. The clutch…
Leaking exhaust at the engine on the 6.0-Liter GMC engine means the exhaust manifold gasket is faulty and there no longer is a good seal between the exhaust manifold and the cylinder head. To fix this leak, it is necessary to remove the exhaust manifold and replace the gasket. The exhaust manifold is secured to the cylinder head with six bolts.
Work on enough engines and you're bound to run into at least one exhaust manifold bolt that would sooner snap than back out of the block. While any monkey with a cheater bar could simply yank and hope for the best, a wise mechanic will have the foresight to know that proper removal now beats drilling the block later.
A leaking pipe can case numerous problems in your home. Aside from increasing your water bill, a leak can damage surrounding floors. In addition, if the leak is located inside a wall, the water can create a breeding ground for potentially dangerous mold. You will need a few hours and some basic tools to replace a wall pipe.
