The Basics of Maintaining your Bakkie
By learning the essentials of your bakkie, you can save time and money. Here are some fundamentals that will allow you to perform some basic maintenance on your own.
Engen Oil/Oil Filter
Allow the engine to warm up to the point where the majority of the oil drains away. With the removal tool, remove the oil filter. After wetting the old gasket on the mounting surface with oil, replace it with a new one when replacing the filter. Allow the engine to run for a few minutes after installing the new filter to ensure there are no oil leaks and don’t forget to refill the sump with new oil!
Accessory Belts
These come in three varieties. On the inside, that is, the side that runs against the pulleys, should be thoroughly inspected for wear and cracks. A traditional V-belt requires around 3cm of play at the longest run, whereas a modern multi-ribbed belt only requires 1,5cm. The latest serpentine belts include a spring-loaded pulley to maintain the proper tension, and you’ll need a repair manual or the Internet to figure out how to set the initial tension. The tensioner and the belt should be replaced at the same time.
Brake Pads
Majority of brake pads are simple to replace. The disc brake pistons, on the other hand, might sometimes get in the way. In this scenario, push them away from the pads with a little wooden stick so you can remove the pads. If there are plates behind the new pads, make sure they’re included they’re meant to keep the brakes from squealing. Because of the greater thickness of the new pads, the level in the brake fluid reservoir will rise; keep an eye on it to avoid spilling.
Brake Shoes
You can use wire or even twine to tie the wheel cylinders together, so they don’t pop out. Because the return springs are so firm, it can be difficult to pull brake shoes back into place. Although special brake spring pliers are available, you should be able to lever the shoes into position after hooking the springs in with a large screwdriver. Before attempting to reinstall the drum, adjust the brake shoes inward; once the task is complete, adjust them outward. To do this correctly, click the mechanism until it becomes difficult to turn the drum, then back one click.
Beekman Canopies offer quality parts and accessories – shop now: https://beekman.co.za/parts-accessories/
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