Maintain That Fuel Economy by Sam Memmolo Co-Host of Speed Channel’s “Two Guys Garage” (NAPSA)—With the price at the pump looking more and more like the price of steak, properly maintaining your vehicle is more critical than ever. The more effi- cient an internal combustion engine runs, the cleaner the tailpipe emissions, _ and the more heat energy it develops from the fuel consumed in combusMemmolo tion. That kind of efficiency spells better fuel economy and cleanerair. In years past, a tune-up meant replacing ignition points and spark plugs in the electrically poor ignition system, adjusting fuel mixtures in carburetors and setting the ignition timing. In today’s vehicles with electronic fuel injection and direct ignition systems, all of these tasks are taken care of by the on-board engine management computers. To maintain efficiency and get you the most for your fuel dollars, today’s vehicles need a different type of tune-up. There are no more “points and condensers,” and most new cars don’t even havedistributors or distributor caps. Today’s high-energy ignition systems coupled with double platinum tipped spark plugs are good for 100,000 miles or more. So how can you get the best mileage and performance from your car or light truck? Follow some simple guidelines. Always buy a quality gasoline that contains detergent additives. Have your fuel system serviced by a professional every 25,000 to 35,000 miles. This service should include cleaning the injectors, cleaning the throttle body and plate as well as the inside of the intake manifold. Tell the techni- cian not to overlook thefuel filter. Engineoil is also critical. Be sure to use the SAE grade and API service classifications found in your owner’s manual. Heavier oils detract from engine power and fuel economy due to the additional work to move the oil pump through heavy oils. You can usually change the air filter element yourself. Unrestricted clean air is critical to performance and mileage. You could also install a little device called “The Tornado.” It installs easily and generates a vortex (swirls the air) in your engine’s intaketo better atomize the air and fuel, deliv- ering more power and increasing fuel mileage. Tornadosare available at most parts stores. In addition to maintaining the engine, you need to service the automatic transmission and be sure it is not slipping. Have your mechanic check the “Lock Up”feature of your torque converter. A malfunctioning lock-up converter can cost you dearly in miles per gallon, and will generate excess heat. Heat is the number one killer of automatic transmissions. Maintaining tire pressures and wheel alignment as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer will increase tire life, fuel economy, improve safety and handling, and makedriving easier. Now you are armed with the facts, and the knowledge to stop by and “talk the talk” with your favorite technician. Happy motoring!
