Question:Can I do my own tune-up to save money?
Answer:You can provided you know how to change spark
plugs, check (and adjust, if necessary) the ignition timing, idle
speed and idle mixture (carburetors only) on your engine.
If you can reach the spark plugs on your engine, you should
be able to change them yourself. All you need is a plug socket,
ratchet wrench, extension, and feeler gauge to set the plug electrode
gap. If you're working on an engine with adjustable timing, you'll
need a timing light to make sure the timing hasn't changed (it
shouldn't have unless somebody messed with it). And you'll need
a tachometer to set the idle speed correctly.
Engines that have electronic ignition and a sealed carburetor
or fuel injection require very little maintenance beyond replacing
the spark plugs every 30,000 miles, replacing the air and fuel
filters annually (or as needed), changing the PCV valve (every
30,000 to 50,000 miles) and changing the oil and filter (every
3,000 miles or six months is usually recommended).
When replacing these items, you should also give your engine
a good "once over" to make sure there are no obvious
problems such as fluid leaks, loose or damaged wires, belts, or
hoses, etc. Checking things like compression and intake vacuum
are not required, but can reveal a lot about the overall condition
of your engine.
WHAT TO INCLUDE:
A comprehensive "tune-up" should probably include
all of the following:
- Replacing the spark plugs (be sure to gap to specs)
- Inspect the rotor (replace only if necessary)
- Inspect the distributor cap (replace only if necessary)
- Check timing (adjust if necessary)
- Inspect spark plug wires (replace only if necessary)
- Check idle speed (adjust as needed)
- Check choke (carbureted engines only)
- Check compression (to monitor valve & ring wear, requires
a compression gauge)
- Check manifold intake vacuum (to check for leaks, or valve
and ignition problems, requires a vacuum gauge)
- Check battery/charging voltage (to detect charging system
problems)
- Inspect & clean battery posts and cable connections
- Inspect air filter (replace if dirty)
- Replace fuel filter (for preventative maintenance)
- Replace PCV valve
- Check vacuum hoses (replace only if cracked or loose)
- Check all vital fluid levels (engine oil, transmission
fluid, coolant, brakes and power steering)
- Inspect belts & hoses (replace as needed)
- Check safety items such as lights, wipers, tires (including
inflation pressure), and horn.
