March 2012
Hi, hope you can help me Nissan Micra K11, whats the torque for the rocker cover bolts, because of a leaking rocker cover gasket which i have a new one.
Thanks... Read more
I am seeing a few threads lately on the subject of the new eco idle-stop systems on engines. It got me wondering, and I am watching this space on these new "I've-started-so-I'll-stop" systems.
My prediction is faults and defects will pop up. Mind you one doesn't have to be Nostradamus to see it coming - anything new has teething troubles. The problem is the poor old owner gets to be the one to wear it all. I am so cynical.
The actual systems appear to fall into three basic categories (correct me if I am wrong). The basic ones seem to be just a brute force method of flinging the engine over on the existing starter system. Smarter ones stop the engine at certain positions, which leave cylinders primed to fire more easily with a bit of a fling from a combined alternator/starter. Other methods use a primed cylinder to recieve a squirt of fuel and spark and it is enough to fling the motor over and then start and continue running - I think Mazda have this system.
Or so I have read. Please feel free to add to my knowledge.
Plainly a system that does not encourage extra wear on components is the better option but of course with that comes more complexity. Groan.
And on the subject of wear and tear I for one, regardless of the method of re-start, don't like the idea of engine oil pressures dissipating every time I stop the car - no good can come from an increase in the number of cycles of building oil pressure from zero. Although I do accept the oil is hot and it is not the same as a cold start. My point still stands though.
Couple that scenario with the rise in small highly strung engines being asked to deliver the same power as previous generations and it merely adds to the stresses on the motor. There will be problems.
Anyway. I have started, so I will stop.
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When we first got satellite TV in the early 1990s we used to be entertained by a programme on Eurosport (I think) which came from an indoor arena in Paris.
Basically a group of cars had to race round an oval track with absolutely no holds barred and the winner being the last one still going. We always found it very funny and entertaining with heaps of cars piled up around the track. However we have not seen this for a number of years now and wondered whether anyone knows if this event is still held or whether Health and Safety has taken over.... Read more
Yes, the event is still held-it's now called "who can get home from work first" and it's held daily on public roads all over France and the finish line seems to be just outside my house here! And on Saturday it's called "who can drink everybody else under the table and still drive to the bar in the next village".
I have a 2006 Mazda6 from new which has been great to drive/own minor cosmetic issues no mechanical problems but when its loaded with 2 adults 3 kids 16,12,10 it not exactly responsive done 50000 miles I have been happy with it but i think its nearly time to change but what to . I had a drive of a friends BMW 5 2.0 diesel and it was lovely to drive. I can see myself driving an automatic as its easier to drive but what to get ? any ideas please what Mondeo like do i get petrol or diesel i do 12000 miles a year Read more
Me me me I'll have one!! .............................If someone else is paying!! :-D
My Toyota Carina E has the 1.8 7AFE engine.
The eco dashboard light doesnt work, probably just a bulb, but dont fancy removing dash for the sake of bulb.... Read more
As someone who had this engine in the later Avensis for 10 years, I would disagree with the above.
It was the most fuel efficient if kept around 2700rpm....
Coming up shortly-- 8 to 10 hours driving two days on the trot.
I drink water and chew Werthers when I feel even slightly that my concentration may be wavering.... Read more
Agree with GB.
Hiya all,
I bought an 2000 mitusbishi evo 6 for £5700, 2 days ago, which was described as in exellant condition inside and out. from a trader mechanic/ rally driver which was his private car.... Read more
I w
Just bought a kit car and it comes with 4 good tyres but all have the word 'competition' on the sidewall, does anyone know if this makes them illegal for street use?
Tyres are: Englebert by Michelin, and wording is "6.50/16 Competition P". ... Read more
Good idea, I'll try Michelin. Demon Tweeks is on my list to call, they have always been helpful when I was running a beach buggy.
son has got his first bike when he fetched it home i had a look at it , the main beam or high beam dont seem to work any body got any ideas before i have to take it to the garage and fork out a furtune thanks Read more
got it sorted
Thinking of getting a C3 Picasso EGS. The Citroen dealer has quoted me a price of 18500 EUROS for the mid specced option..
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As a confirmed automatic driver and part-time French resident, I can sympathise with your plight. I solved the problem by bringing a car over from the UK, but obviously that's not an option for you.
I wish you luck with the Citroen dealer, but I doubt that he'll budge very much - the auto box being the issue....
Browse
I'm on my third generatiuon oif VaG diesel since this engine, and nothing touches it for efficiency as far as I can see. Brilliant motors, I drove to the Cote D'Azur in my car and it still returned 47-48 MPG even being ragged way beyond normal UK motorway speeds. Tear in corner of eye while writing this !