Hot Maintenance How-Tos — Page 3 of 14 « Maintenance

How To: Identify the cause of a noise coming from your car

When cars start to get older, their many fragile moving parts start to make noises they never made before. Sometimes, when your car starts making a new noise, it can be very difficult to identify what is causing the noise and what you need to do to repair it. This video offers some great tips for finding the source of different kinds of car noises, from engine noises to suspension noises.

How To: Install a Toad Stop braking system for towed vehicles

In this video, we learn how to install a Toad Stop braking system for towed vehicles. First, determine where you are going to install the braking system. Insert the electrical wires into the appropriate spots by reading the labels that are on them. After this, use a drill to lock down any parts that are loose. Once you place the braking system in, you will need to lock it down using the wires that come with it. Make sure these are installed properly throughout the entire vehicle up until you ...

How To: Keep your RV stove from going poof when it turns off

The stove in your RV is crucial for cooking on the road, and maintaining the LP system that supplies it is vital to your safety. If your RV stove is making a "poof" sound when you turn it off, it's not too hard to fix. This video will tell you about two potential solutions that will ensure proper stove function.

How To: Jump Start a Car

We've all been there before: We're in a hurry to get somewhere (often in bad weather), so we get in the car, turn the key in the ignition and.....WHUH! WHUH! WHUH! The darned battery is dead! After a stream of choice expletives (that is, if you're anything like me....;o)), we open the trunk and take out the jumper cables - but what if we don't know how to use them? Even if we do, we can often forget such things in crisis situations when we're pressed for time.

How To: Replace outer tie rod ends

In this video, Rich Pin teaches us how to replace an outer tie rod end on a vehicle. First, get the vehicle in the air supported on jack stands, and remove the tire wheel assembly. Next, put a mark on the top of the tie rod shaft so you know where to line it up when you replace it. Next, loosen the jam nut from the rod, remove that and the nut. Remove the tie rod end after this by shocking it with a hammer. When it is removed, replace it with a new part and then attach all the bolts and nuts ...

How To: Remove an automobile headliner

In this video, we learn how to remove an automobile headliner on a Saturn S-series. First, you need to remove the back cushion and then take the back rest on the seat, then lay it down. After this, remove the dome light and remove all the grab handles from the vehicle. Next, remove both visors and screws, then remove the mouth on the seat belt and bolts. After this, remove the cover on the back brake light, then the trim that runs along the side of the inside of the car on both sides. Once yo...

How To: Remove the dashboard and wheel to replace bulbs

In this video, we learn how to remove the dashboard and wheel to replace bulbs. First, remove the negative battery cable, then remove the steering wheel. Next, remove the cluster bezel, with Phillips head screwdrivers for the screws. Pull back on the bezel and remove the clips from the bottom by prying it apart. Remove the cluster next, followed by the top piece of the steering wheel joint. Once this is removed, you will be able to slide the cluster out and squeeze the cables to remove it. Fr...

How To: Replace the exhaust manifold in a Jeep Cherokee

In this video, we learn how to replace the exhaust manifold in a Jeep Cherokee. First, take the bolts out from the collective and set aside. Next, loosen up the collector and take out the bolts that are holding the manifold on. Then, remove the manifold from the vehicle. After this, install your new manifold in the same spot your other manifold was just in. Your next step will be to place the other parts back on that surround the exhaust manifold. Make sure all bolts are on tightly, then go i...

How To: Perform RV air conditioning maintenance

Jim Twamley teaches us how to perform RV air conditioning maintenance in this tutorial. It can be expensive to replace an air conditioner, cleaning it will help give it a longer life. First, remove the top of the unit by removing the screws from the front and back. After this, blow out the inside to make sure everything is nice and clean with air pressure. Next, clean the inside of the top of the unit with household cleaner and a clean rag. After this, replace the top to the unit and insert t...

How To: Replace windshield washer nozzles

In this video, we learn how to replace a windshield washer nozzle. First, use tape to mark where the wipers were at so you know where to replace them. After this, remove the wipers from the vehicle by using a wrench. Now, pop the hood of the car and remove the screws that are on the front of the car surrounding the nozzles. Once you get the top area removed, you will find the nozzle and hose underneath it. After this, replace the old nozzle with the new one and then put it back. When finished...

How To: Measure clutch fork pedal travel in a Saturn S series

In this video, Rick Pin teaches us how to measure the clutch fork pedal travel in a Saturn S series. First, remove the air box and the resonator box from the vehicle. Also remove the duct work from the vehicle and set aside. Once these are removed, you will be able to see the plate cylinder underneath where the air box was. To measure the fork travel, us a piece of wire with tape on it that has measurements listed. Push down on the clutch travel as you do this, then remove the wire and you wi...

How To: Replace the hubcaps on a 1931 Model A Ford

This great video will show you how you can replace the hubcaps on your old 1931 Model A Ford car. These classic cars can be difficult to take care of, but with these steps you'll be able to successfully change the hubcap without any hassle.

How To: Check for a vacuum leak in your vehicle to improve performance

In this video you'll look at different methods of discovering a vacuum leak in your vehicle wherever it may be. Word of caution: FOLLOW THESE INSTRUCTIONS VERY CLOSELY, there is a chance that you CAN catch your engine on fire if you do it wrong.

How To: Successfully check and maintain your brake fluid

Brake fluid is important, we all should know this. If you're in the city, then you know that once that stop and go traffic hits, you're going to want some good response out of your brakes. An in-depth look at checking the brake fluid and how to add more.

How To: Adjust the flame on your RV water heater

In this video, we learn how to adjust the flame on your RV water heater. First, open up the area where your gas valves are. Find the air opening to make a smaller air adjustment. The setting should be 1/4 of the way open. Snug down the locking screw when you have adjusted it properly. Now, you have to fire up the water heater by turning on the water heater switch first. Once the main flame is lit, you will see it with a nice blue color. Play with the adjustment some more until it's adjusted h...

How To: Change an RV electric plug

Many of us often faces the electric problem and one of them is power plug problem. When it goes down you need to change it.

How To: Wash And Detail Your Car Or Truck In 4 Steps

If you ever wondered how to keep your car looking great and protect the paint for years to come, read on.

How To: Remove brake drums easily

If you're having a hard time with removing the brake drums on your car, this next video tutorial might help solve your problem. In this quick tip tutorial from Eric the Car Guy, you'll find out some easy ways to help remove brake drums from your car easily. Some methods may seem easy and quick, but can lead to some pretty heavy damage on your vehicle. So if you need help, check out the tutorial and good luck!

How To: Replace the radiator and fan motor on a Saturn S-series

If you own a Saturn S-series and have found out that you need to replace the radiator and/or fan motor, this next tutorial is right up your alley. In this video you'll find out how to replace both parts to your vehicle. They're pretty important for helping a car run, so replacing them as soon as possible is a pretty big deal.

How To: Fix an overcharging battery problem on your RV

If you have a problem with an overcharging battery on your RV, you may want to tune in for this video. In this tutorial, the RV Doctor explains what may be the problem behin a battery that is continually overcharging. There are many possible reasons, but in this video is focuses on one in particular. So if you need help, check out the video above and good luck!

How To: Tell if a pulsing sound from a propane regulator is normal

Owning an RV can be considered a bigger responsibility than owning a normal car. Unlike a car, RVs can be used as a portable home on the road and features many things that a car doesn't have. Bathrooms, water faucets, electricity, etc. So if you begin to hear a pulsing sound coming from your propane regulator, then you may have a problem.

How To: Replace the serpentine belt tensioner on a Saturn S-series

If you have a problem with your vehicle's serpentine belt tensioner, you may want to replace it soon. This is designed to hold a certain amount of tension and needs to be replaced. This video uses a Saturn S-series to display how to replace the part, so it can apply to other cars, but it won't be exactly the same. So check it out, be careful, and enjoy!

How To: Fix a stickly RV slideout

If you own an RV and are having a hard time with putting your slideout back, then this next video tutorial may help. In the video, The RV Doctor talks about possible reasons why a slideout may be so hard to put back in after it was easy to take out. There are a couple of reasons for it, and the video describes what kind of problems you may be facing and what you may need to do. So good luck, be safe, and enjoy!

How To: Repack a Motorcycle Muffler

Periodically, motorcycle and ATV exhaust system can be rebuilt to maintain the proper performance and sound level expected from the exhaust system. My experience was with a dirt bike that had an aftermarket high performance exhaust installed.I bought my 99 XR400 second hand and was happy that it already had some nice mods. Namely the High Rev kit, performance header pipes with an E-Series muffler, and the suspension had been redone with higher spring rates. It has great response and the suspe...

How To: Remove your windshield washer tank

In this video, we learn how to remove your windshield washer tank. First, lift up the hood of the car. After you have done this, you will need to remove the outer light on the front of the vehicle with a screwdriver. Next, find the tank on the inside of the hook where the windshield wiper fluid is located at. After you have done this, make sure to disconnect any tubes and parts that go to this, then set them aside. If you are replacing this, you will need to put your new one in and then repla...

How To: Bleed rear brakes

In order to bleed your breaks, you will need the following: break fluid, a 10 mm socket wrench, and a wrench.

How To: Remove a rear inside door panel from a Saturn S series

In this tutorial, we learn how to remove a rear inside door panel from a Saturn S series. First, open the door and take off the handle to the door, then remove the screw inside of that. After this, unlatch the side of the door and unscrew the bolts from this. Now, go inside the side pocket of the door and remove the screws from that, then set aside. Remove the foam padding against the inside of the door, then loosen up the wires on the inside of it. Now you will be able to remove the door and...

How To: Install piston rings on a Porsche 914 rebuild vehicle

If you are rebuilding a Porsche 914, then you may wanna check out this next tutorial. In the video, you'll find out how to perform an important task that needs to be completed before the engine is put together. In this video you'll find out how you can install piston rings on a Porsche 914. It's not too difficult to do, but doing it wrong can result in a broken or damaged ring and that can cause them to become useless. So pay attention, good luck, and enjoy!

How To: Change the front wheel bearings on a Porsche 944 Turbo S

If you want to save a little dough so that you can use it to buy something more useful, performing your own maintenance on a car is a smart idea. Not only do you save money, but you get a bit closer to understanding your vehicle and how it works.

How To: Change the water pump, timing and balance shaft belts on a Porsche 944 Turbo

If you own a Porsche 944 Turbo and hate having to pay hundreds of dollars to fix or keep your care in tip-top shape, check out this next video. In the tutorial, you'll find out how to change the water pump and balance shaft belts on a Porsche 944 Turbo.

How To: Change the front main seal on a Porsche 944 or 951

If you own a Porsche, chances are you know how difficult it may be to work on it yourself without the proper help. Taking it to the mechanic is a safe way of making sure your car will be fine, but it's very expensive. Doing it yourself can be difficult, but if you have a good how to video or article it should be fine.

How To: Clean out the radiator on a Porshce 996

Radiators are another important part to the operation of a car. Not only do they help transfer energy from one place to another, but they can also be used for engine cooling as well.

How To: Pressurize a Porsche 944 Turbo's intake system

Do you think that you have a vacuum or boost leak on your Porsche 944 Turbo? Would you like to know, but not pay a mehanic a ton of money on something you can do easily? Then are you in luck! This next video tutorial is just what you need.

How To: Rid an RV of it's stench

In this tutorial, we learn how to rid an RV of it's stench. Typically, the stench that comes from the RV is just because it's a small area with a lot of condensation. There are a lot of products out there that will help absorb the smell and are made specifically for an RV. These will absorb the moisture that is inside of the RV so it doesn't smell any longer. Having these can help get rid of those nasty smells in your RV. Also, make sure you are cleaning the kitchen as well as the bathroom of...

How To: Clean out the carburetor on a push lawn mower

If you're having a hard time with starting your lawn mower, there could be several problems. One of the main issues can be because of the vehicle's carburetor. If unattended, it can give you a hard time.

How To: Properly use stands for your motorcycle

If you plan on doing repairs for you own motorcycle, there are a few tools that you'll need first. One of the most obvious is a stand. These help lift the bike and allows you to get into certain areas without having to worry about tipping the bike over.