I see so many new dwellers at the mercy of mechanic shops or they ruin their engine needlessly.
The following are some very basic things that any vandweller can learn to do,
You really want a manual for your van & engine. The two really good ones are Chilton and Haynes. A manual will cost approximately $30 at any auto parts store. Even if you rely on mechanics, you'll want one as a reference so that you understand the repairs needed.
You need a tire gauge and I recommend getting a 12v tire compressor. The tire compressor plugs into your lighter socket. They run $5-$10. A tire gauge is less than $2. The information as to how much air is on your van. Open the driver's side door, there will be a sticker telling you how much air should be in your tires. On mine, that sticker is partially torn. So you go to the physical tire itself. It will have the max load and a number in psi. That is the number your gauge should read if tires are properly inflated.
You need to know how to check your oil, coolant, brake fluid, transmission fluid. Sometimes if you have a leak all that is needed is replacing a hose. That is usually inexpensive, easily done, and can mean the difference between a running vehicle and a blown engine.
Do not overfill fluids. Transmission fluid is checked after engine is warm (running 20 minutes or driven 7 miles). Vehicle must be level with engine running.
Oil can be checked hot or cold. You check on the dipstick, refill in the cap that says oil. You check oil with engine off.
All of these checks can be done by anyone. Lift your hood, check your fluids. Use a tire gauge to check your tires.
Do not drive on low oil, low oil pressure, low coolant, or an overheated vehicle. Carry oil, antifreeze, brake fluid, transmission fluid, power steering fluid with you.
These few simple things are the difference between a running vehicle or scrap metal.
See ya down the road
Lou
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