With the change of seasons most people examine their wardrobes. Last season’s coat is inspected for wear, and boots, sweaters and wool slacks come out of the closet for scrutiny. AAA reminds motorists that cars also need seasonal checkups.

AAA recommends that motorists use a simple checklist to determine their car’s fall and winter maintenance needs. Most of the items on the checklist can be inspected by car owners in less than an hour, but several others should be performed by a certified technician.

One way to identify a reliable, high-quality repair facility with certified technicians is to look for one that is AAA Approved. AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities must meet and maintain high professional standards for customer service, technician training, service equipment, warranties and cleanliness. There are nearly 8000 AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities in the U.S., and nearby shops can be quickly located at AAA.com/repair.

Winter Car Care Checklist

Battery and Charging System – Have the battery and charging system tested by a trained technician. A fully charged battery in good condition is required to start an engine in cold weather. AAA members can request a visit from a AAA Mobile Battery Service technician who will test their battery and replace it on-site, if necessary.AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities can also test and replace weak batteries.

Battery Cables and Terminals – Check the condition of the battery cables and terminals. Make sure all connections are secure and remove any corrosion from the terminals and posts.

Drive Belts – Inspect belts for cracks or fraying. Don’t just look at the smooth top surface of the belt, but turn it over and check the grooved underside where most belt wear occurs.

Engine Hoses –Visually inspect the cooling system hoses for leaks, cracks or loose clamps. Also, squeeze the hoses to check for any that may be brittle or excessively spongy feeling and in need of replacement.

Tire Type and Tread – In areas with heavy winter weather, changing to snow tires on all four wheels will provide the best winter traction. All-season tires will work well in light to moderate snow conditions, providing they have adequate tread depth. If any tire has less than 3/32-inches of tread, it should be replaced. Uneven wear on the tires can indicate alignment, suspension or wheel balance problems that should be addressed to prevent further damage to the tires.

Tire Pressure – Check tire pressure more frequently during winter months. As the temperature drops, so will the pressures in the tires—typically 1 PSI for every 10 degrees Fahrenheit. The proper tire pressure levels can be found on a sticker located on the driver’s side door jamb. And, don’t forget to check the spare.

Air Filter – Check the engine’s air filter by holding it up to a 60-watt light bulb. If light can be seen through much of the filter, it is still clean enough to work effectively. However, if the light is blocked by most of the filter, replace it.

Coolant Levels – Check the coolant level when the engine is cold. If the coolant level is low, add a 50/50 solution of coolant and water to maintain the necessary antifreeze capability. The level of antifreeze protection can be checked with an inexpensive tester available at any auto parts store.

Lights – Check the operation of all headlights, taillights, emergency flashers, turn signals, brake lights and back-up lights. Replace any burnt out bulbs.

Wiper Blades – Blades should completely clear the glass with each swipe. Replace blades that leave streaks or miss spots. In areas with snowy conditions, consider installing winter wiper blades that wrap the blade in a rubber boot to prevent ice and snow buildup that can prevent good contact between the rubber blade and the glass.

Washer Fluid – Fill the windshield washer fluid reservoir with a cleaning solution that has antifreeze components for cold weather use.

in good working order.

Transmission, Brake and Power Steering Fluids – Check all fluids to ensure they are at or above the minimum safe levels.

Emergency Road Kit – Update the car’s emergency kit for winter weather. The kit should include:

·        Bag of abrasive material (sand, salt, cat litter) or traction mats

·        Snow shovel

·        Snow brush

·        Flashlight with extra batteries

·        Window washer solvent

·        Ice scraper

·        Cloth or roll of paper towels

·        Jumper cables

·        Gloves, hats and blankets

·        Warning devices (flares or triangles)

·        Drinking water

·        Non-perishable snacks (energy or granola bars)

·        Extra clothes

·        First-aid kit

·        Basic toolkit (screwdrivers, pliers, adjustable wrench)

·        Mobile phone and car charger with important numbers programmed in it, including a roadside assistance provider

As North America’s largest motoring and leisure travel organization, AAA provides more than 52 million members with travel, insurance, financial and automotive-related services. Since its founding in 1902, the not-for-profit, fully tax-paying AAA has been a leader and advocate for the safety and security of all travelers. AAA clubs can be visited on the Internet at AAA.com.

For full article follow the link below

http://newsroom.aaa.com/2010/09/2010-winter-driving/

Step By Step How To Safely Jump Start Your Car

How To Safely Jump Start Your Car

1

Open each car's hood and locate the battery. On most cars, it will be near the front of the car on the right or left side, but on some cars the battery is located near the firewall between the engine and passenger compartment. In some cars the battery is located in the trunk. If unsure, check your car manual for location of the battery. Identify the positive and negative terminals.

·        The positive terminal will be marked with a plus sign (+) and will usually have a red cable attached on it.

·        The negative terminal will be marked with a minus sign (-) and will usually have a black cable attached to it.

2

Park the working car near, but not touching, the disabled car. Park the car in such a way that the distance between both car batteries is as small as possible. Turn off the engine, radio, lights, A/C, fans and all other electrical components. Make sure that all of these things are off in the disabled car, too. Don't let the cars touch at all.

·        If the cars are touching, jumping the battery can cause a dangerous electrical arc between the vehicles

·         

·        3

Put on safety gear (goggles and gloves) if you have it. Inspect batteries for cracks, leaks or other damage. If you find any of these things, do not jump start the car. Call a tow truck instead or replace the battery.

·        It may be necessary to remove the disabled automobile's battery cables from the battery terminals and clean both cables and terminals. Use a stiff wire brush to remove all corrosion. Reconnect the cables to the battery terminals and jump the car.

·        Remove any positive (+) red post protective covers if applicable.

4

Untangle and unwind your jumper cables. Like your battery, your jumper cables will probably have red and black cables and will have heavy-duty clamps to connect to the battery terminals. You must make sure that the red and black ends of your jumper cables never touch each other once they are connected to the batteries; permitting them to do so can result in serious arcing and/or damage to one or both cars.

5

Connect the jumper cables in the order described below:

·        Connect one red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.

·        Connect the other red clamp to the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.

·        Connect one black clamp to the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.

·        Connect the other black clamp to a piece of grounded metal on the dead car,preferably the bolt where the thick negative cable from the battery connects to the chassis. If this is not practical, look for shiny metal (not painted or oily) that is attached to the engine. Usually a nut, bolt or other protruding shiny metal will work. You may see a small spark when you connect to a good ground. As a last resort, you may connect to the negative (-) post of the dead battery, but this risks igniting hydrogen gas coming off the battery.

·        Make sure none of the cables are dangling into the engine compartment, where they could be exposed to moving parts.

6

Start the working car. Let it idle for a few minutes. Do not race the engine, but do rev the engine a little above idle for 30 to 60 seconds. You do this to charge the battery in the dead car, because the starter in the dead car will draw most of the required current (well in excess of 100 amps) from that battery, not through the cables. Common retail jumper cables are not built to pass the current required. Charging the dead battery is a must. If 30 seconds doesn't do it, try charging for the full 60 seconds by keeping the engine at a high idle. A good, clean connection between the battery cables and the battery terminals is essential.

7

Try to start the disabled vehicle. If it does not start, shut the engine off and disconnect the last connection temporarily while you slightly twist or wiggle each of the four clamps to help ensure a good electrical connection. Restart the working car again. Allow another five minutes for charging before attempting to start the disabled vehicle. If this does not work after a few tries, you may need to have the car towed or the battery replaced.

8

Remove the jumper cables once the car starts. Do this in the reverse of the order in which they were attached, and don't let any of the cables or clamps touch each other (or dangle into the engine compartment).

·        Disconnect the black clamp from grounded metal on the dead car.

·        Disconnect the black clamp from the negative (-) terminal of the good battery.

·        Disconnect the red clamp from the positive (+) terminal of the good battery.

·        Disconnect the red clamp from the positive (+) terminal of the dead battery.

·        Replace any positive (+) red post protective covers if applicable. These covers help prevent accidental short circuiting the battery.

9

Keep the recently-disabled car's engine running. Run the car above idle (slightly revved up with your foot on the gas) for five minutes and then on or above idle for 20 minutes before turning it off. This should give the battery enough charge to start the car again. If it does not, you probably have a dead battery or a dying alternator.

For the complete article click here http://www.wikihow.com/Jump-Start-a-Car

Happy 4th of July from Huletz Electric

Happy 4th of July from Huletz Electric !!

No-Bummer Summer: How to Use your Car for Fun this Season

Post Memorial Day Weekend, if you close your eyes, you can hear a classic summer-time movie voice-over: “Hi everybody, this is your cousin Brucie. Whoa! … Ping pong in the west arcade, softball in the east diamond … Complimentary dance lessons in the gazebo.” Summer has begun, and you’re ready for the usual suspects: swimming, barbequing, sports, camping. The usuals are great, but this year, Quoted has a way to mix up your summertime activities and avoid that inevitable mid-summer slump: this year’s fun is all about your car.

DRIVE-INS

If you haven’t been to the drive-ins since you were a kid, you’re missing out. Snuggling up to watch a movie on a giant outdoor screen with sleeping bags, plenty of snacks, and the soundtrack crackling over your radio is just as fun in adulthood as it was when you were a kid. One of the biggest perks is the double feature: most drive-in movies have two showings—a kid-friendly movie for the little ones, and after, usually something more grown-up. Follow our completely non-expert tips for making the most of your drive-in experience:

• Arrive early enough to get a spot about halfway back, and about halfway in the row, not too close to the concession stand
• Bring lots of snacks and drinks—the sweeter and saltier the better
• You can never have too many blankets
• Open the hatch if you have a larger truck and set up a little movie-watching love nest

Also remember that the experience isn’t just about the movie, so you can be less picky than you might in a theater.

DRIVE-UP RESTAURANTS

We think there’s something special about eating still-piping hot burgers and fries with ice-cold shakes in your car like you’re a too-cool teen in the ‘50’s—and doesn’t that mouthwatering combo just sound like summer?

Quoted scoured the web for the coolest local drive-up spots (because the chains just aren’t as much fun). If you live near one, you might consider loading up your family or friends and eating al fresco:

• Dicks Drive-In: serving up the classics at six Seattle-area locations
• Keller’s Drive-In: the Dallas, Texas standby serves up the classics—plus beer!
• Sycamore Drive-In: a spot with many summers under its belt, you’ll find the usual fare with extra flair in Bethel, CT
• All-American Drive-In: this Long Island, NY drive-in eatery lives up to its name in both food and decor
• The Varsity: serving Atlanta classic drive-in diner deliciousness for 87 years
• Frisco’s: located in Long Beach, Calif., this place has a huge menu and even huger following

Didn’t see your city on the list? Thrillist has a few more fun places to drive in and eat up. And if you know of a great drive-up restaurant for fantastic summertime car eating, tell us in the comments—you might help someone else crank their summer to eleven.

OFF-ROADING

Felicity Metzler, from 4 Wheel Online, told Quoted: “We’ll load up our Jeeps and SUVs with snacks and beverages, sunscreen and a change of clothes and go find a beach to drive along, find a trail to explore, or meet up with our local Jeep enthusiast club and find some muddy trails. When we’re all done, we’ll have a big barbeque/car washing party.”

If you don’t have your own Jeep, you can still get in on the offroading fun. From mountain trails to beaches, and SUVs to ATVs, there’s a rental out there for all types.

Consider changing the chore of car-washing into a meditative break.

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EVERYTHING OLD IS NEW

This summer, dust off your old childhood games for some contemporary fun. Just add some expert organizing and, of course, your car.

Heather Piper, co-owner of Thrill of the Hunt, gave Quoted the details: “Thrill of the Hunt takes a traditional scavenger hunt and incorporates social media and technology to make it interactive and even more exciting. Thrill of the Hunt personalizes each scavenger hunt for team building events, fundraisers, corporate outings, educational functions, public hosted events and birthday parties for all ages.” Piper also told us they’ve “Developed scavenger hunts to cover a large distance, either for historic value, to force individuals to get to know an area, or to increase the overall challenge. This scavenger hunt could also include a road trip or an overnight adventure. Pile a few friends in the car and partake in a scavenger hunt!”

CAR WASH

For car lovers—and clean lovers, and those looking for some novel entertainment for restless children—there’s nothing like an all-inclusive car wash to mix up your summertime routine, and even add a little fun. Really! Just picture yourself traveling slowly on the conveyer belt, those huge rollers banging and scrubbing, and all the poured soap and hose action–you could do worse on a slow and sleepy summer afternoon. And if you have restless kids to entertain, tell them a story about caves and witches, or heroes and adventurers fending off monsters. Or, if your kids are very literal, have them guess each step in the washing process–you can bet waxing will stump them. You’re sure to get at least a few fun-parent points out of the experience, with the bonus of a shiny-fresh car.

If you’re more of a DIY type of person, you might consider transforming the chore of car-washing into a meditative break. Hans Desjarlais from Import Insider tells us that washing his car “On a weekly basis is a way to relax and unwind after a busy work week.”

Vehicle Maintenance Costs and 2015 AAA Brochure

Vehicle Maintenance

Driving costs also are affected by how well your vehicle runs. Performing regular maintenance can ensure more efficient vehicle operation and help prevent costly repairs down the road. Below are general checks to make sure your vehicle stays in tip-top shape. Read your owner’s manual for more detailed information on your vehicle’s specific requirements. When performing any do-it-yourself maintenance, always be sure to take proper safety precautions. 

Click Here To Download AAA Brochure

Fluids:

• Engine oil: Lubricates and cools the engine while cleaning internal parts. Running your car when it’s low on oil can cause serious engine damage. Check the oil level at least once a month.
• Coolant: Prevents engine freeze-up in winter and boil-over in summer while protecting the cooling system from rust and corrosion. Check the coolant level at each oil change.
• Brake fluid: Critical to proper performance of the vehicle’s braking system. Check at each oil change
• Transmission fluid: Helps transfer engine power to the wheels, lubricates internal parts, maintains seals and acts as a coolant. Check the level at each oil change.
• Power steering fluid: Transfers hydraulic pressure to reduce driver steering effort. Check at each oil change.
• Gasoline: Follow vehicle manufacturer octane rating recommendations to ensure maximum fuel efficiency and prevent damaging engine knock.

Air Filter: Your vehicle’s air filter captures dirt particles and ensures proper airflow to the engine. Inspect the filter at every oil change and replace as needed.

Belts: Most vehicles today use a single serpentine belt to operate under-hood accessories such as the alternator. However, V-belts still are used in some applications. Inspect all belts at every oil change and replace when you spot signs of wear such as glazing or cracking.

Hoses: Hoses circulate vital liquids such as engine coolant, transmission fluid and power steering fluid. Inspect hoses at every oil change and repair or replace any that show signs of wear or leakage.

Battery: The battery supplies power to the starter motor, acts as a voltage stabilizer and makes up for any shortfall when the alternator can’t meet the vehicle’s electrical needs. Inspect battery cable connections at every oil change and clean as needed. When servicing a battery, always wear eye protection and gloves.

Tires: As the only part of your vehicle in contact with the road, tires are integral to safety and ride comfort. For optimum performance, tires must have adequate tread depth and be properly inflated. Inspect tires and check inflation pressures at least once a month. AAA offers several resources to complement information found in your owner’s manual. They include:

• AAA.com: Provides a variety of vehicle maintenance and operating tips. Online content varies by AAA club.
• AAA Approved Auto Repair: The Approved Auto Repair network includes more than 7,100 shops across North America that are visited regularly and inspected annually to ensure they meet AAA’s rigorous quality standards and deliver exceptional service and value. AAA members using them receive special discounts, written repair estimates, free maintenance inspections, minimum 24-month/24,000-mile parts and labor warranties, AAA arbitration in repair disputes and priority service when their vehicles are towed in following a breakdown.
• AAA ShopLocator: Available in most areas, this AAA.com search tool helps users locate nearby AAA Approved Auto Repair facilities and provides lists of services, hours and other helpful information.
• AAA AutoManager: This free AAA.com program sends users e-mail reminders of scheduled vehicle service requirements and due dates for vehicle payments and insurance premiums. It also provides vehicle recall notifications and helps owners track service histories. Online content varies by club.

To learn more, visit www.AAA.com or call (800) AAAHELP.
To locate an AAA Approved Auto Repair shop, visit www.AAA.com/repair.
To locate a AAA Spokesperson, visit www.NewsRoom.aaa.com

Auto Electrical System Care Tips

Your vehicle’s electrical system ensures your motor and other accessories are working properly. Huletz Electric offers replacement batteries, alternators and other services to keep your vehicle on the road. Car electrical work is required since all vehicle parts eventually wear out. Auto electrical help will diagnose your engine and let you know if repairs are needed and how much it will cost. 

Your car’s battery stores voltage needed to start your engine. The alternator assist the battery by giving it power. If your car will not start, it does not automatically mean you need a new battery. Huletz Electric will inspect your vehicle’s electrical system and inform you of needed repairs. Your car electrical work may cost several hundred dollars. Auto electrical help can be found by researching mechanics in your area online. 

If your vehicle starts having starting problems, then you know it is time to take it to your mechanic for inspection. Maintaining your vehicle will keep you from breaking down on the side of the road. Check your tire pressure at least once a week. Tires naturally lose pressure and you can prevent a flat tire. Changing a flat tire on the side of the highway is a dangerous project. 

Keep your vehicle’s oil changed every 3,000 to 5,000 miles or according to your vehicle’s manufacturer. Take it to an oil change company that will also check your belts, hoses and fluid levels. Preventive maintenance is the best way to keep your car running at its best. Check your tires tread depth to ensure you are not riding on bald tires. 

Save gas mileage on your vehicle by avoiding sudden starts and stops. Do not let your car idle at a fast food restaurant. Turn the ignition off since it takes less fuel to start your car than what it is burning while idling. Drive your car according to the speed limit. Speeding will waste gas and possibly get you a ticket that cost a few hundred dollars. Obey all traffic laws since any type of ticket will cost you money. Maintain your vehicle and it will last much longer

Happy Holidays !!

350 Oldsmobile We Are Working On

Electrical System - Current, Voltage and Resistance

The electrical system of a car is a closed circuit with an independent power source the battery. It operates on a small fraction of the power of a household circuit.

Current flows along a single cable from the battery to the component being powered, and back to the battery through the car's metal body. The body is connected to the earth terminal of the battery by a thick cable.

This type of circuit is called an earth-return system any part of it connected to the car body is said to be earthed.

The strength of the current is measured in amperes (amps); the pressure that drives it round the circuit is called voltage (volts). Modern cars have a 12 volt battery. Its capacity is measured in amp/hours. A 56 amp/hour battery should be able to deliver a current of 1 amp for 56 hours, or 2 amps for 28 hours.

If the battery voltage drops, less current flows, and eventually there is not enough to make the components work.

Current, voltage and resistance

The extent to which a wire resists the flow of current is called resistance, and is measured in ohms.

Thin wires conduct less easily than thick ones, because there is less room for the electrons to travel through.

In a negative (-) earth-return system, the current flows from the positive (+) terminal of the battery to the component being operated. The component is earthed to the car body, which is earthed to the negative (-) terminal of the battery.