Mercedes 126 Repair - Choosing the Right Oil
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Richard_M_Foster]Richard M Foster
There are two main issues we need to worry about when choosing the best oil for our Mercedes 126. Costly repairs can be avoided if we get this decision right.
VISCOSITY
Picking the viscosity of your oil used to be a relatively simple decision, and I believe it still is. I say "used to be" because the oil companies now offer a vast array of products, many with zero- and five-weight winter ratings, and some with huge multigrade ranges. Furthermore, a school of thought has emerged in certain circles, apparently influenced by analogies from human biology, that leads many to purchase new-fangled oils that are totally inappropriate for our cars.
The theory goes that since most engine wear occurs on cold starts, we want an oil that flows freely when it is cold. Heavier oils, it is said, are as dangerous to our engines as thick blood is to a human body with constricted arteries. High oil pressure, just like high blood pressure, signifies flow restrictions and is unhealthy. While there is an obvious truth here, this thinking can be taken too far.
The oil companies have had to respond to changes in demand patterns. Modern car engines are being manufactured with very fine tolerances. The major car companies have switched to thinner oils, typically 5W-20 or 5W-30, partly because thinner oil passages need thinner oils, but also because thinner oils tend to improve fuel economy. But the engines in our 126 cars were not manufactured with these tolerances.
Mercedes tells us in no uncertain terms, in the owners manual, which oil we should be using, and the main consideration is climatological. The thin oils commonly used in modern cars would only be appropriate in Arctic climates. For the vast majority of users, the ideal viscosity is 15W-40, and that is what Mercedes put in these cars at the factory. Owners in warm climates where frost is rare can safely use 20W-50. Contrary to the modern over-analysis mentioned above, this heavier oil has proven to work wonderfully well. I am personally aware of one 420SEL that surpassed 800,000 miles down here in Florida. The owner used the cheapest 20W-50 he could find.
ZDDP
The other major issue we must consider is the strength of the anti-wear additive package. In 2007, the federal government required oil companies to reduce the amount of ZDDP in their oils. The aim of the regulatory change was to lengthen the service life of catalytic converters, as ZDDP is somewhat hostile to those devices. This zinc and phosphorous compound is a highly effective anti-wear agent in what is referred to as "boundary lubrication" situations; i.e. when high-pressure metal-on-metal contact occurs within the engine. Such contact is less of a concern in modern engines with roller cams, but older engines, especially those with flat tappets, need the protection that ZDDP provides.
Consequently, the latest API certifications - SM for gasoline engines and CJ-4 for diesels - bespeak weaker anti-wear packages. Some oil companies have attempted to compensate for the reduction in ZDDP by adding other agents such as molybdenum, but they simply aren't as effective in older engines.
Many Mercedes owners have known about ZDDP for years and found themselves drawn to heavy-duty, diesel-rated oils like Shell Rotella, Chevron Delo, and Mobil Delvac (which also happen to be the ideal weight). These oils typically had much stronger anti-wear packages than gasoline-rated oils, in addition to the detergent/dispersant packages needed to deal with the soot produced by diesels. Indeed, such oils must bolster the anti-wear package because the detergents may tend to wash the oil off internal parts. Unfortunately, even these oils were reformulated and are no longer as beneficial.
Research suggests that the optimum level of zinc is in the region of 1300ppm and the ideal level of phosphorous is about 1200ppm. Of the new CJ-4 diesel oils, the only one that seems to meet those tests is Chevron Delo 400LE. But there are other options.
If you live in a climate where 20W-50 is viable, the best option is probably one of the "racing" oils, especially Brad Penn and Valvoline VR-1. The latter is readily available at Advance Auto Parts; the former requires mail order for most people. The only drawback to these oils is that they are not intended to live in the crankcase for long periods. But since you'll be changing your oil at least every 3,000 miles, that won't be a problem, will it! Alternatively, Amsoil's synthetics have retained strong ZDDP levels and could be used for extended drain intervals if needed.
If you need 15W-40, a lesser-known but very good option is Swepco. Porsche 911 owners swear by it. But, if you can find it, diesel-rated oils that have retained the older CI-4/SL certification remain appealing. One such oil is Mystik 15W-50, sold by Tractor Supply. This oil is not well known at all outside trucking and agricultural circles, but it has a terrific specification and is very affordable.
For more Mercedes 126 repair advice click the previous link or copy and paste http://www.squidoo.com/mercedes-126-repair-resources into your browser.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Richard_M_Foster http://EzineArticles.com/?Mercedes-126-Repair---Choosing-the-Right-Oil&id=3072573
Monday, October 19, 2009
How to Keep Your Car Safe Through Proper Maintenance
How to Keep Your Car Safe Through Proper Maintenance
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lisa_S_Simmons]Lisa S Simmons
This keeps all parts running efficiently, and prevents any unwanted stalls or stops that aren't planned. Below are offered some tips to keep your car running at its best and safest.
Keeping your oil changed is one of the easiest ways to have a smooth running car. You should check your oil and change it and the filter every three to four thousand miles. This keeps the engine from getting damage from low oil levels, dirt and debris running through the system, and keeps parts from locking up. This also helps your engine to use much less gas.
While you are having your oil changed, every other time have the tires rotated and examined. This allows the tires to wear more evenly, makes them last longer, and having them looked over by a professional helps you to know if they are still safe. Tires that have low tread (bald tires) can blow out in the worst of circumstances and should be replaced immediately. Ask your mechanic how to know if your tires are in need of repair or replacement.
Every once in awhile, do a walk around of your car to make sure that there are no strange leaks underneath, damage, all lights are in working order, and everything seems in place. Check also to see if there are any broken lights or parts hanging down too low under the car. These items need to be addressed immediately before you drive again. This helps you to pick up on problems early that can turn into dangerous ones if overlooked.
It is critical to have a tune-up done at the recommended mileage for your vehicle type. The car is given a thorough look over, and worn out parts are replaced. This is essential for keeping your car for a long time and for avoiding hazards that can occur while driving. Make sure that you are aware of the next time your car will need this done, and make an appointment with your dealership or local mechanic.
By following the above tips, you will have a good start on keeping your car properly maintained and safe to drive on the road. This way, you are being a safe and responsible driver.
To learn more about how you can travel safely visit the [http://www.onlineautoinsurance.org/]online car insurance page for more information and start saving now.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_S_Simmons http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Keep-Your-Car-Safe-Through-Proper-Maintenance&id=3095991
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Lisa_S_Simmons]Lisa S Simmons
This keeps all parts running efficiently, and prevents any unwanted stalls or stops that aren't planned. Below are offered some tips to keep your car running at its best and safest.
Keeping your oil changed is one of the easiest ways to have a smooth running car. You should check your oil and change it and the filter every three to four thousand miles. This keeps the engine from getting damage from low oil levels, dirt and debris running through the system, and keeps parts from locking up. This also helps your engine to use much less gas.
While you are having your oil changed, every other time have the tires rotated and examined. This allows the tires to wear more evenly, makes them last longer, and having them looked over by a professional helps you to know if they are still safe. Tires that have low tread (bald tires) can blow out in the worst of circumstances and should be replaced immediately. Ask your mechanic how to know if your tires are in need of repair or replacement.
Every once in awhile, do a walk around of your car to make sure that there are no strange leaks underneath, damage, all lights are in working order, and everything seems in place. Check also to see if there are any broken lights or parts hanging down too low under the car. These items need to be addressed immediately before you drive again. This helps you to pick up on problems early that can turn into dangerous ones if overlooked.
It is critical to have a tune-up done at the recommended mileage for your vehicle type. The car is given a thorough look over, and worn out parts are replaced. This is essential for keeping your car for a long time and for avoiding hazards that can occur while driving. Make sure that you are aware of the next time your car will need this done, and make an appointment with your dealership or local mechanic.
By following the above tips, you will have a good start on keeping your car properly maintained and safe to drive on the road. This way, you are being a safe and responsible driver.
To learn more about how you can travel safely visit the [http://www.onlineautoinsurance.org/]online car insurance page for more information and start saving now.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lisa_S_Simmons http://EzineArticles.com/?How-to-Keep-Your-Car-Safe-Through-Proper-Maintenance&id=3095991
Safely Towing Your Car
Safely Towing Your Car
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn]Levi Quinn
When a car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, then it may have to be towed. It is important to know how to tow a car safely to avoid any unnecessary but costly damage that may arise from a carelessly towed car. First and foremost, it is important for the car to be placed in neutral. Not putting the car in neutral means that its wheels stay locked and this can cause costly damage to the vehicle while at the same time posing a serious risk to safety.
Secondly, the vehicle owner should fasten the trailer hitch's tow chain to the car which is to be towed. The fastening needs to be double looped then made to a strong part in the undercarriage of the vehicle. To ensure safety, it is important that the car being towed does not carry any passengers. This is actually illegal. It is also advisable to give a clear sign to those behind the vehicle so that they know that they car is being towed and give it a wide berth. When towing a car, the speed should ideally be at 45 mph. Any higher speed will only put a strain on the tow cable and pose a great safety risk with a very high likelihood of an accident. It is important to limit the distance over which the car will be towed so as to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the vehicle.
When towing the vehicle using a Ready Brake, it is important for the driver to ensure it is the last thing that touches the tow bar. As the black cable channel is routed for Ready Brake installation, it should be secured with fastening devices such as zip ties to the engine compartment; especially at the places in the routing where bending takes place. The ready brake should follow a direct path as opposed to going round in circles.
When using the Ready Brake to tow the car, the tow bar should be level within two inches to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the braking system is at its most efficient. A DL100 should also be installed in the monitoring device of the dash light to enable the driver know then the brakes are applied. After installation of the aircraft cable to the towed vehicle, it should be able to freely move without any bind. If it does not, then it is highly likely that the black conduit was not properly installed.
Always remember when towing a vehicle that it should never go beyond towing limits of the two rig or the tow bar. Drivers should also remember that there is an increased length on the RV and their driving should be adjusted accordingly. All the turn signals as well as brake lights should be thoroughly checked before towing the vehicle and a significant stopping distance catered for. Following these steps carefully will ensure that the towed vehicle arrives at its destination safely and with no damage other than what caused it to break down in the first place.
Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. [http://www.autoinsuranceratesdirect.com]Click here to visit us today for money-saving tips and receive [http://www.autoinsuranceratesdirect.com/quotes/]free auto insurance quotes for the cheapest auto insurance rates from respected insurance companies.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn http://EzineArticles.com/?Safely-Towing-Your-Car&id=3099657
By [http://ezinearticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn]Levi Quinn
When a car breaks down in the middle of nowhere, then it may have to be towed. It is important to know how to tow a car safely to avoid any unnecessary but costly damage that may arise from a carelessly towed car. First and foremost, it is important for the car to be placed in neutral. Not putting the car in neutral means that its wheels stay locked and this can cause costly damage to the vehicle while at the same time posing a serious risk to safety.
Secondly, the vehicle owner should fasten the trailer hitch's tow chain to the car which is to be towed. The fastening needs to be double looped then made to a strong part in the undercarriage of the vehicle. To ensure safety, it is important that the car being towed does not carry any passengers. This is actually illegal. It is also advisable to give a clear sign to those behind the vehicle so that they know that they car is being towed and give it a wide berth. When towing a car, the speed should ideally be at 45 mph. Any higher speed will only put a strain on the tow cable and pose a great safety risk with a very high likelihood of an accident. It is important to limit the distance over which the car will be towed so as to avoid putting unnecessary strain on the vehicle.
When towing the vehicle using a Ready Brake, it is important for the driver to ensure it is the last thing that touches the tow bar. As the black cable channel is routed for Ready Brake installation, it should be secured with fastening devices such as zip ties to the engine compartment; especially at the places in the routing where bending takes place. The ready brake should follow a direct path as opposed to going round in circles.
When using the Ready Brake to tow the car, the tow bar should be level within two inches to achieve the best results. This will ensure that the braking system is at its most efficient. A DL100 should also be installed in the monitoring device of the dash light to enable the driver know then the brakes are applied. After installation of the aircraft cable to the towed vehicle, it should be able to freely move without any bind. If it does not, then it is highly likely that the black conduit was not properly installed.
Always remember when towing a vehicle that it should never go beyond towing limits of the two rig or the tow bar. Drivers should also remember that there is an increased length on the RV and their driving should be adjusted accordingly. All the turn signals as well as brake lights should be thoroughly checked before towing the vehicle and a significant stopping distance catered for. Following these steps carefully will ensure that the towed vehicle arrives at its destination safely and with no damage other than what caused it to break down in the first place.
Find the best deal on the auto insurance coverage you need. [http://www.autoinsuranceratesdirect.com]Click here to visit us today for money-saving tips and receive [http://www.autoinsuranceratesdirect.com/quotes/]free auto insurance quotes for the cheapest auto insurance rates from respected insurance companies.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Levi_Quinn http://EzineArticles.com/?Safely-Towing-Your-Car&id=3099657
Thursday, October 8, 2009
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