by Norm Nock 

Brakes: This is a major safety item and should be checked regularly by a qualified mechanic. Pulling, soft pedal, no power, locking, grinding, or squeaking are some of the reasons to get your brakes checked for safe operation.

Driving Over 6000 Feet: In high altitudes your engine will have a 3 percent per 1000 feet decrease in power and the idle will be slower. If you do not drive regularly above 6000 feet, it is not necessary to change your carburetor adjustments or the ignition timing. If you do live at these high altitudes, check with local mechanics who will advise you about how to change your ignition to suit the altitude.

Generator: If your generator starts to make a grinding sound, the bush and/or bearing are badly worn. This is usually caused by a fan belt being adjusted too tight. The belt should not be "twangy" tight; it should have a little loose­ness, but not slip.

Cooling System: Check the accuracy of your temperature gauge against a thermometer inserted in the top of the radiator, with cap removed and car idling. Any temperature readings over 195 degrees F on the gauge while driving, should be investigated to avoid overheating and engine damage. Check condition of radiator and heater hoses and replace if they are old, hard, cracked, or mushy.

Hubs, Wire Wheels: Check the condition of the hubs by driving slowly in second gear and going on and off the gas pedal. Listen for clicks coming from the hubs. If you hear these clicks, your wheel could come off while driving. Do not over tighten the knock-offs to stop the clicks. Clicks could also be caused by a worn universal joint or differential.

Water Pump: Hold the pulley or fan blade at the tip and move it. There should be no movement or looseness. Look for a rusty stain or a coolant leak from the hole in the bottom of the pump.

Electric Fuel Pump: If the pump is old and dirty, you should replace it with the newest type electric S.U. pump.

Battery: Check that the specific gravity of your battery shows at the fully charged mark of 1.280. If not, charge the battery and check the specific gravity again. If is has not reached the fully charged state, replace it before if causes you a "no start problem."

Leaks: If your car leaks every time you park it, don't assume it could only come from your engine. Check the transmission level and the coolant level. (Note: water/antifreeze looks like clean oil.) Don't forget to check the engine oil as well. Keep a close watch on all your fluid levels and avoid an expensive overhaul.