Author Archives: gwebs

Transmission Flush & Filter Change

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The transmission had a leak, and was empty when I picked it up. And although they filled it for me, it only worked well for a while as it leaked out and became low

Once it was too low, it stopped working, and it was a challenge to troubleshoot it

The mechanic listened to it and confirmed it was a transmission issue, but when I called a local transmission expert, his estimate was $1,000 to rebuilt my transmission, and a week to do it. I kept looking for options

20160511_135027A friend recommended draining the fluid, and replacing the transmission filter, and gasket. Then refilling it

After doing that, it was able to drive again, and although there is still a small drip to track down, it seems to be working well

 

Fuel Filter Replaced

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Today I replaced the Fuel Filter ($4)

The only fuel filter on this one is in the carburetor, so it is small and requires taking off the dog house. I think I will keep a few available to swap these out whenever I have the doghouse open, for a few dollars it’s easy insurance

Tune Up & Six Emissions Tests

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The first emissions test, it failed everything but the gas tank cap

So.. new spark plugs, spark plug wires, rotor, ICM module20160509_124641

Then back for another test (test #2)

Passed all but the Idle HC.
High Hydrocarbon (HC) emissions

This time I changed out the oil filter, changed the oil, and coolant. Looked for Vacuum hose leaks

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Took it back for test #3 and failed just the idle HC again, but with a ‘better’ number, so I adjusted the idle (on the carb) in the parking lot, and tested again.. but failed a 4th time

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By now the crew at the Tucson Eastside Emissions testing station were getting to know me and the van, lol
And I was getting better at finishing the test efficiently

I decided to get some expert help, and arranged a meeting with a mobile mechanic. He helped diagnose what might be wrong based on the test results and the steps I had already taken to tune up the van.

The mechanic showed me how to tune the idle mixture correctly and what tool to use.. off to the emissions again (5th time).. and it failed, but the Idle HC number was MUCH closer to passing now

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I changed the fuel filter, tuned the idle mixture again and used a fuel additive to help clean out some carbon

the 6th time it passed !!

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