hey.. I'd like to get everybody that could to help me put together a technical article about how to do a full tune-up of your car. I mean everything, from things as common as changing the oil to things as overlooked as changing the differential fluid. Problem is I don't know how to do everything, so.. any input with this would be appreciated. Of course credit would be given to everyone that participates.

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89 iroc-z 305 tbi
k&n filtercharger, open element air filter. nuffin' else

 

Enkil,

You can start with something like this. Use what you want. It's not copyrighted yet:

A basic tune-up MUST include:
Cooling system inspection;
Clean or replace spark plugs;
Ignition wire testing;
Distributor cap/rotor (if you don't have the OptiSpark);
PCV valve cleaning or replacement;
Air filter;
Cleaning the IAC;
Checking/setting TPS voltage;
Check/adjust minimum air rate;
Check/adjust timing;
Code scan;

The proper steps in fuel injector system service are:
Check fuel pump operating pressure and volume.
Test pressure regulator for operation and leakage.
Flush entire fuel rail and upper fuel injector screens to include pressure regulator.
Clean fuel injectors.
Decarbon engine assembly.
Clean throttle plate and idle air control (IAC) passages.
Check minimum air flow rate and adjust if needed.
Relearn onboard computer.

Cleaning injectors is not a "basic" tune-up procedure.

To clean the injectors and system correctly takes about two hours if you're experienced and have all the right equipment, about four hours longer if it is your first time and/or you only have basic tools and instruments. When performing this, you should also test fuel pump output volume and pressure - these are critical to proper operation of the system. You can have the fuel system power-flushed, but most of us don't have the equipment to perform this at home. This seems to be a good procedure if done correctly.

The advantage to the old-fashioned way of cleaning injectors is that you get to actually see the injector screens and spray tips. And while you have everything disassembled, you can easily do the intake plenum modifications that the factory should have done. You can also clean up that mess under the plenum and fuel rails, and get a good look at the EGR, which should be pulled and inspected if you're already that far. Once you perform this, you'll appreciate the need for using good fuel and keeping a clean fuel filter.


Scheduled Service

It's not just changing the oil. This is a generic outline of GM recommended service procedures and intervals. Verify the correct interval an procedure with your owner's or shop manual.

Monthly
Check Fluid Levels
Check Lighting and Horn
Tire Pressure

3000 Mile Service
Oil and filter change

7500 Mile Service
Chassis Lube, Fluid Levels

15000 Mile Service
Tire Rotation
Hose Inspection
Underbody Flush / Inspection
Body Lubrication
Door Hinges, Latches, Lock Cylinders
Hood & Trunk Hinges, Latches
Weatherstrips and Bushings

30000 Mile Service
Differential Service
Belt Inspection
Front Wheel Bearing Repack *

36000 Miles Service
Transmission Service
Cooling System Service
Flush & Refill
Condenser/Radiator Cleaning
Front and Rear Brake Service
Tune Up Service
Replace Spark Plugs
Spark Plug Wire Testing
Fuel Filter
Distributor Cap, Rotor, Coil Test
Air Filter
Vacuum Hose/Fuel system Inspection
PCV system Inspection

50000 Mile Service
Front Shock Absorbers
Rear Shock Absorbers
Emissions Service
Evaporative Canister Filter
Oxygen Sensor Replacement


Determine your car's actual mileage, then determine if each of these procedures have been done at the correct intervals. If you don't have a hard receipt showing a service within the specified mileage, you'll need to do it now. If your car has 60,000 miles and it hasn't had a distributor cap in the last 30,000 miles, you need to replace it.

(Excerpted from my pending booklet)


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Later,
Vader
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"No matter how hard you try you can't stop us now..."
Adobe Acrobat Reader 4.0

[This message has been edited by Vader (edited February 26, 2001).]