Exhaust Smoke Diagnosis: Evaluating the Engine's Condition

Once the compression, cylinder leakage, vacuum, and power balance tests are performed, further testing can be done to evaluate the engine’s condition. For example, an engine with good relative compression but high cylinder leakage past the rings is typical of a high-mileage worn engine. This engine would have these symptoms: excessive blowby, lack of power, poor performance, and reduced fuel economy.

Exhaust analysis.

If comparable compression and leakage test results are found on an engine with comparatively low mileage, the problem is probably

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Fluid Leaks: Evaluating the Engine's Condition

When inspecting the engine, check it for leaks. There are many different fluids under the hood of an automobile so care must be taken to identify the type of fluid that is leaking.

Identification of fluid leaks.

Carefully look at the top and sides of the engine, and note any wet residue that may be present. Sometimes road dirt will

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How to Change the Oil and Oil Filter (with Detailed Demonstration Pictures)

Maintenance
Perhaps the PM service that is best known to the public is changing the engine’s oil and filter. Because oil is the lifeblood of an engine, it is critical that the oil and filter are changed on a regular basis. These photo sequence show the steps involved in changing the engine oil and oil filter. Whenever doing this, make sure the oil is the correct rating for the vehicle.

1. Always make sure the vehicle is positioned safely on a lift or supported by jack stands before working under it. Before raising the vehicle, allow the engine to run awhile. After it is warm, turn off the engine.

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Mass and Weight, What's the Difference?

Mass is the amount of matter in an object. Weight is a force and is measured in pounds or kilograms (1,000 grams). Gravitational force gives the mass its weight. As an example, a spacecraft can weigh 500 tons (one million pounds) here on earth where it is affected by the earth’s gravitational pull. In outer space, beyond the earth’s gravity and atmosphere, the spacecraft is nearly weightless but its mass remains unchanged.

The difference in weight of a space shuttle on earth and in space.

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Preparing Your Cover Letter: Seeking and Applying for Employment

A cover letter should be sent with every resume you mail, e-mail, fax, or personally deliver. A cover letter gives you a chance to point out exactly why you are perfect for the job. You should not send out the same cover letter to all potential employers. Adjust the letter to match the company and position you are applying for.

Yes, this means a little more work, but it will be worth it. Address the letter to the person doing the hiring. Do NOT use “Dear Sir, Dear Madam, or To Whom it may concern.” If the job posting does not give the hiring person’s name, you can normally find who to send the resume to by calling the employer and asking to whom to address your cover letter. You can also try checking other business information sites to determine the name of the person conducting the interviewing.

An example of a cover letter that can be sent with the resume.

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Preparing Your Resume: Seeking and Applying for Employment

Becoming employed, especially in the field in which you want a career, involves many steps. As with many things in life, you must be adequately prepared before taking the next step toward employment. This discussion suggests ways you can prepare and what to expect while taking these steps.

Your resume and cover letter are your own personal marketing tools and may be an employer’s first look at you. Although not all employers require a resume, you should prepare one for those that do. Preparing a resume also forces you to look at your qualifications for a job. That alone justifies having a resume.

Keep in mind that although you may spend hours writing and refining your resume, an employer may only take a minute or two from his or her busy schedule to look it over. With this in mind, put together a resume that tells the employer who you are in such a way that he or she wants to interview you.

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How to Lift and Carry Heavy Objects

Often technicians or workers will need to move something that is heavy. Knowing how to lift these heavy things can save your career. When lifting any object, follow these steps:

Figure A. Use your leg muscles— never your back—to lift heavy objects.

1. Place your feet close to the object. Position your feet so you will be able to maintain a good balance.
2. Keep your back and elbows as straight as possible. Bend your knees until your hands reach the best place to get a strong grip on the object (Figure A).
3. If the part is in a cardboard box, make sure the box is in good condition. Old, damp, or poorly sealed boxes will tear and the part will fall out.
4. Firmly grasp the object or container. Never try to change your grip as you move the load.
5. Keep the object close to your body, and lift it up by straightening your legs. Use your leg muscles, not your back muscles.

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