Rack Pinion Steering

Rack and pinion steering is a device used for the conversion of circular and linear motion, which is made up of a pinion plus a rack which are mated. This is the steering wheel used by most cars. At the end of the stretched out steering wheel is a cogwheel. Once the steering wheel is turned to the left, the rack is pushed to the right of the axel. The rack is on the front axel, while the pinion is on the end of the steering wheel.

How it Works

The rack and pinion connects the front wheels to the steering wheel. It connects the center of the tire rod assembly to the steering column, which then connects to the steering arms. This whole assembly connects the rotational motions of the steering wheel into the linear motion of the tires. The rack is a bar that is flat with teeth that are notched, which are connected to the tire rod assemblies. The pinion is a round gear that is connected to the shaft that steers. As the steering wheel is turned, the rack is then pushed in the exact opposite direction.

Racks and pinions can either be manual or automatic. The automatic racks and pinions use a power steering pump. This pump is then mounted on the compartment of the engine and is driven by a belt. This whole rack and pinion steering is a bit complicated to understand, and is best explained by an expert. It is really complicated, especially if you are not a car expert and if your rack pinion steering is not working properly. You need to call an expert right away.

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If you’re having trouble with the power steering hose of your car, you need to determine first what’s wrong. For instance, it might be leaking. If this is the case, you must find the source of the leak. Once you did that, cut the leaking part of the hose, install hose clamps, and tighten them. After that you can put the power steering hose back. That was the fast-forward version of a possible power steering hose repair. Now, let’s go through the steps you need to take, one at a time.

What Does the Power Steering Hose Do?

The power steering hose connects the power steering pump and the power steering rack by carrying the power steering fluid. If you detect a burning oil smell and experience difficulties in steering your car, you’re probably dealing with a power hose leak.

What Does a Power Steering Hose Repair Involve?

1. If you suspect something is wrong with your power steering hose, pull over right away, because the leaking fluid can cause a fire.

2. Check under the hood of the car with the engine running. Use the emergency brake to make sure you’re safe.

3. Identify the location of the leak in the hose. This shouldn’t be hard, because you’ll see the fluid precipitating.

4. Now that you’re sure there’s a leak in the hose, shut off the car engine and get down to repairing it yourself if you’re not close to a car repair shop to have it replaced.

5. To initiate your power steering hose repair, you need to cut the leaking part of the hose.

6. Then place two clamps on both sides of the power steering hose and pull them together.

7. Connect the two parts of the hose with the help of the clamp knobs. Make sure the clamps are tightly connected, but don’t overdo it because you might deteriorate the hose.

8. Once you have connected the hose, put it back in. Check the fluid. You might need to refill it if it leaked for a longer time.

9. After replacing the power steering fluid, start the engine of the car and check how solid your power steering hose repair is.

10. Remember that this is a temporary fix. Replace the power steering hose as soon as possible.

Need Help?

If you’re looking for a reliable mechanic to fix your power steering hose or you need other car repairs, TalkLocal can assist you by connecting you with local professionals for free.

The power steering system is a vital part of your car, but in time it may wear out, just like any other part of your vehicle. One of the most frequent problems that can make the power steering system stop working is the power steering pump.

What Does a Power Steering Pump Noise Tell You?

One possible cause is a low level of fluid. If the noise still persists after adding fluid, it might be because there’s air within the lines, and the fluid pushes it out. If air is trapped in the power steering system, you need to rev the engine and turn the steering wheel from side to side several times. Usually this pushes air out and eliminates the unpleasant power steering pump noise.

Can the Power Steering Pump Noise Signal Other Problems?

Yes, it can. Leaking is another possible cause of a power steering pump noise. If you’ve identified the leak and the pump noise is still there after fixing it, it might be that the parts used are made of plastic. Or maybe there is a blockage in the lines, which can also prevent the power steering pump from working properly.

If replacing the fluid, repairing a possible leak, and removing air or a blockage from the lines don’t solve your power steering pump problem, it might be time to change it. Avoid buying cheap, rebuilt versions, and purchase a new pump from your car dealer to make sure it does its job properly and you get rid of that annoying noise.

Also, remember that if you want your power steering pump to work well, it is advisable to use the right power steering fluid. If your car needs automatic transmission fluid, use that. If it’s a particular brand of power steering fluid, be sure to put that into your pump, otherwise you’ll need to repair it or even replace it sooner than expected.

Additional Help

Still can’t identify the source of your power steering pump noise? You might need the help of an expert. TalkLocal can put you in touch with local professionals who can assist you with your car problem immediately.

Fuel filters have the primary function of filtering dust and particles from fuel. They are typically made into cartridges in your car. Knowing when to replace fuel filter is important for keeping your car in shape. To know when the fuel filter is dirty, you need to remove it from your car and blow through it. Then you have to gauge the resistance of the air when blowing through the filter. Minimal resistance means that the fuel filter is clean and doesn’t need to be replaced. However, if there is more resistance, then the fuel filter is dirty and needs replacement.

A Word of Warning

A word of caution should be said about testing if your fuel filter is dirty or not. Gasoline is a very poisonous substance, so you must not blow directly into your fuel filter. Instead, use a clean, rubber hose and blow through that.

What a Clogged Filter Will Do

It is important to know when to replace fuel filter, because a clogged fuel filter will immediately stop your engine by hindering the flow of fuel to your carburetor or injectors. This will stop your engine cold, and your brakes could stop working as well.

This is a dangerous situation to be in, so you have to be vigilant about replacing your car filter. A filter that is only partially clogged will allow fuel to pass through, sufficient enough for low speeds. This will cause your engine to stutter when using the car at high speeds. There are some filters that have a bypass mechanism, which will allow fuel to pass through. However, this can create additional problems because dirt and particles will go into the carburetor or injectors.

Need Help?

If you need help in locating a professional to help you replace your fuel filter, TalkLocal can help you. We will connect you with up to three, high-quality professionals in just minutes, for free.

Average Price of a New Car

A new car is a joy to have for everybody. You may be wondering about the average prices of a car. The latest prices of a new car in 2013 average about $30,000. This is a $1,200 increase in price from the previous year. The increase in price is due to the high demand for cars.

The average age of cars has also increased in recent years. The average age of cars is 10.8 years, while the average age for light trucks is 10.4 years in 2011. Of course, sometimes you may want to augment your new car with accessories, and this may increase costs. Installing new windshield wipers, for instance, adds extra cost.

There are other costs that have driven up the average prices of a car. In the US, higher gas prices have been a contributing factor to the increased prices of cars. This is due to stringent federal standards, which is the cause of the gas prices that reached an all-time high in 2012.

The Cost of Used Cars

It is also important to consider the average prices of used cars, because not every potential car owner is looking for brand-new vehicles. The prices of used cars have also increase. This is due, in part, to the supply of older car models dwindling in the last few years.

Of course, there are several additional costs to acquiring used cars. The paint on the exterior may have deteriorated, needing a repaint. Additionally, there may be problems with the steering that you need to fix. All in all, the average prices of a car have increased, and this goes for both new and used cars.

Calling a Professional

Need car help? Here at TalkLocal, we are dedicated to helping you maintain your vehicle, no matter how old it is. Use our free service to be connected with high-quality mechanics in your area today!

Why Squeaky Brakes Should Be Checked

Squeaky brakes are a problem for a lot of car owners. Because brakes are the most important safety feature of a car, owners are alarmed by squeaky brakes. There are some instances when squeaky brakes are dangerous, because it means the brakes are going bad and need to be replaced. Other times, squeaky brakes are common, and do not need to alarm owners. However, the big question on every car owner’s mind is: What do squeaky brakes mean?

There are ways to find out if squeaky brakes are normal or not. First, you have to consider the conditions you are driving in to find out the answer to: What do squeaky brakes mean? If you are driving in sandy, dusty, or humid conditions, then squeaky brakes are perfectly normal. This means that your car doesn’t need checks or repairs.

Next, you have to consider how old your car is. High-pitched noises produced in newer vehicles are due to the fact that semi-metallic brake pads in these cars are harder.

Instances When You Need Professional Help

Other times, however, you need to call in an expert mechanic to check your car. Squeaky noises happen when the brake pads squeeze the metal rotor. This means that the metal rotors vibrate, and this creates the squeaky sound that you hear. Again, it is important to have a professional check your car for any problems, because brakes are the most important safety feature of your car. There is nothing to lose by checking your car thoroughly, because it is preferable to accidents happening to you.

Need Help?

If you need professional help in determining why your brakes are squeaking, you can give TalkLocal a call today. We can help you find a mechanic or an expert near you because sometimes, it’s hard to handle squeaky brakes all by yourself.

Leaky and Damaged Shocks

Knowing when to replace shocks is important if you want to keep your car in good shape. Replacing shocks is needed if your current shocks are damaged and leaking. You also need to replace your shocks if they are worn out from use. Unlike squeaky brakes, car shocks are more complicated to replace, and you definitely need professional help. You can tell if there is leakage if there is oily wetness on the exterior of the shocks or struts. Additionally, you can tell if there is damage when you can see that the mount is broken or the housing is dented.

Shocks that are Not Suitable

In some cases, the original shocks are not leaky, damaged, or worn out, but simply that they are not adequate for the demands of your car. In this instance, you need to replace your current shocks with more rigid ones. If the problem is the car oil; you also need to replace this too.

Unlike filters or plugs, shocks do not have a specific mileage needed before they can be replaced. However, knowing when to replace shocks after a certain mileage is reached is important, too. Most shocks need to be replaced after 30,000 to 40,000 miles, but the mileage for your car will vary greatly.

Pinpointing the exact time that shocks need to be replaced is sometimes hard, because by the time you realize that they need to be changed, it is usually way past the time that they actually need to be. The best way to consider when to replace shocks is by observing the ride of your car. If your car bounces excessively after a hump in the road, then your car’s shocks need to be replaced.

Finding a Professional

Are you having a hard time looking for a professional to evaluate your car’s shocks? TalkLocal can help you locate a professional near you. Give us a call today and feel the difference being in the hands of a professional makes.

The saying “It’s better to be safe than sorry” is especially true when it comes to preparing your home for hurricane season. That’s why it is very important to include protecting your vehicles as part of your comprehensive plan for a hurricane-proof home. If a storm is approaching and you are at home, follow these helpful tips to protect your vehicle.

Park Where It’s Safest

Your home garage would be the ideal place to park your vehicle. If you don’t have a garage, however, park your vehicle as close to your house as possible so it is partially protected from high winds and debris. Do not park under power lines or trees that can be knocked down. You can park your vehicle in a public garage, although you may not be able to get to your car immediately after a hurricane due to possible floods and road closures.

Prepare Keys and Documents

Make copies of your car keys and give a copy to everyone who is licensed to drive in your family. Should you become separated from your family and have no access to your vehicle, someone in your family will still be able to drive it to your family’s designated emergency meeting area. Also, make sure that your vehicle’s registration and insurance paperwork are stored in a safe place such as a waterproof and fireproof document safe. It would also be smart to make copies of your car’s documents.

Fill Up Your Tank

When hurricane season starts, having a hurricane-proof home is clearly necessary. However, during a disaster, you also have to be ready to go and leave your home if necessary, either to escape harm or to get help. One way to prepare for this situation is to make sure your vehicle has a full tank of gas. Otherwise, you’ll be delayed getting to your destination because you will likely have to make a stop at a gas station so you can fuel up.

Auto Insurance Policy

Make sure your policy is up-to-date. If you don’t have comprehensive coverage, consider getting it to insure your vehicle against natural disasters including flood damage and damage from fallen trees. However, it is best to secure this coverage before or early in the hurricane season, because insurers are not so keen in giving them when a storm is already on its way because of the obvious risks. Also, to better prepare should your vehicle become damaged by a hurricane, take photos of the interior and exterior of your vehicle for insurance purposes so you have proof of its pre-disaster condition.

Vehicle Damaged by a Hurricane?

If your vehicle has been damaged following a hurricane, a professional auto repair contractor will need to inspect your vehicle to determine the extent of damage. They will also be able to save, replace, or repair what they can of the damaged parts. Get connected with qualified auto repair professionals in minutes when you use TalkLocal.

When it comes time to replace your brake pads, you will find that you have an almost limitless variety to choose from, and the sheer amount of options can be frankly overwhelming. However, the truth is that despite the innumerable brand options you have, there really are only four types of brake pads on the market, each categorized on the basis of the brake pad material. If you’re looking for the best brake pad material for your vehicle, this is where you need to start.

1. Organic Pads

As the name suggests, this brake pad material is purely organic and includes no metal or asbestos components. Generally considered to be low quality, organic pads do offer the benefit of being relatively noiseless and softer on the application. However, this is not the best brake pad material, as it is not very resistant and wears down very quickly. While these are the cheapest option available, there is always the downside of having to frequently replace your brake pads. The bottom line, then, is that these pads are recommended only if you cannot afford anything better, or if you do not plan on driving the car very much at all.

2. Low Metallic Pads

This brake pad material is similar to organic pads in that the primary components are organic materials such as Kevlar and carbon. However, they are a step up from organic pads because they incorporate small amounts of metals such as copper in order to increase the brake pad resistance. These types of brake pads work well, but due to their primarily organic make-up, they wear down quickly, albeit not as quickly as pure organic pads. They are also rather loud, so if that is a consideration for you, it might be best to avoid them.

3. Semi-Metallic Pads

This type of brake pad material is, as the name implies, made up primarily of metallic elements, such as steel. While they do offer a strong, dependable braking action, they are nonetheless excessively noisy, and the metal components place more pressure on the rotor. However, this is generally one of the best brake pad materials available, especially because it has a slow wear rate, allowing you to get the most from your brake pads.

4. Ceramic Pads

This is generally considered to be the best brake pad material available, and as such, the cost of ceramic pads is typically higher as well. However, ceramic pads have a lot of advantages that more than make up for the high price tag. To begin with, they are quiet and operate evenly, allowing for a smooth feel and easy brake action as opposed to a bumpy, lumbering stop. They also have the slowest wear rate of any brake pad material, meaning that you get your money’s worth with these pads. The only caveat with ceramic pads is that they do not work as well at high temperatures, so if you are planning on racing your car, you might want to look into another type of brake pad material.

Find Professional Advice

Even with a thorough understanding of brake pads and the materials you have to choose from, there are still a lot of brands and options to sift through. The best way to whittle down the choices is to ask a professional mechanic. TalkLocal can help you find a local mechanic in your area within minutes with our free service. Don’t wait – we will connect you with the right professional in just minutes.

We work hard to protect our vehicles and to keep them maintained. However, while we maintain our tires, engines, and transmissions, the timing belt is often overlooked. Knowing when to replace the timing belt on your vehicle is very important, and a failure of the timing belt can turn into a major problem.

Replacement of the timing belt is an essential service operation which every car owner needs to be aware of. To best understand why the timing belt is so important and, in return, what we can do to stop it from malfunctioning, we need to find out more about what it actually does and what the life expectancy of the timing belt is.

What Does The Timing Belt Do?

The timing belt in your car helps to make your engine work. Without it, the engine cannot run smoothly because the camshafts in the engine will not work well. A camshaft is a shaft in your engine that controls the intake and exhaust valves, which allows air in to create combustion and vents the exhaust. A properly running timing belt is essential in this process.

When To Replace The Timing Belt

When figuring out when to replace the timing belt, find out if you have an “interference” or “non-interference” engine. Interference engines have limited space between all the valves and pistons; non-interference engines are more spacious. Because an interference engine has such a small space between the pistons and the valves, any break in the belt can cause a huge problem and can ruin the entire engine. These timing belts need to be changed more often. Because a non-interference engine has more space, a break in the belt is usually not as damaging. However, in both types of engines, timing belt failure will stall the engine and it will not start again without major repair.

Fortunately, timing belt failure can be easily prevented with care and maintenance.

1. Check the owner’s manual to see when to replace the timing belt in your vehicle.

2. Check the last time the belt was changed. A general guideline is that the timing belt should be changed every 60,000 to 80,000 miles.

3. If your timing belt is reaching the point when it should be changed, or if a change is overdue, take your vehicle to a certified mechanic. All timing belt service intervals should be followed carefully to protect your vehicle and to protect you.

Find A Mechanic

To find out more information about auto repair and protecting your vehicle, find a quality mechanic near you. TalkLocal will connect you with up to three mechanics in your area, so you can get the help you need, when you need it.