Question from P.Allen:

Hi, I was just wondering as to the legal requirements for under-chasis lighting?

Answer:

To get the most up to date information, your best option is to look up the NZ Transport Agency website: http://www.nzta.govt.nz/

Other additional lighting requirements are covered by the regulations which are available at: http://www.nzta.govt.nz/resources/rules/vehicle-lighting-2004-qa.html

Question from V. Diola:

Hello. I would like to ask what is the best gasket sealer brand I have to use if I am going to change or clean the gasket of the engine of my car? I have an 89 Toyota Chaser, somewhat the same model as an 89 Cressida. I cannot seem to find a replacement part for the engine gaskets so I am thinking on just cleaning it up and use sealers to seal the engine. Thank you.

Answer from Permatex:

Thanks for your question. The best Permatex product to use on a rocker cover gasket is Ultra Black. Permatex Ultra Black has been developed to have the highest resistance to automotive engine oil.

Once you have removed the old rocker cover gasket you will need to make sure that you clean up the surfaces of the rocker cover, head and the old gasket, making sure that they are clean and oil free. Then apply a layer of Ultra Black onto the surface of the head, fit the rocker cover and gasket to the engine. Make sure to torque the rocker cover bolts to the recommended torque level.

You must allow at least two hours for the silicone to begin to cure before running the engine other wise you run the risk of it not sealing properly.

Ultra Black is available in two sizes 80ml tube and 300ml cartridge, just ask the staff at your nearest Supercheap Auto for help.

Question from Tina:

Just want to know if you sell body repair kits for the body? Thanks

Answer:

We have a number of tools suitable for body repair. Below is a list of what is available at any of our Supercheap Auto stores. The 7piece kits can be picked up for around $30. The 9 piece dent puller kit is around $20.

Article Description:

• DENT PULLER KIT 9 PC
• GENERAL PURPOSE DOLLY
• DENT PULLER HEAVY DUTY SPRWRKS
• DENT PULLER SUCTION CUP SPRWRKS
• BODY REPAIR KIT 7PCE YELL/BLK F/GLASS HD

Question from Paul:

Hi, Just bought a boat trailor light bar from super cheap, the lights are mounted on a pvc bar, whats the best way to mount it to the boat.

Answer:

In regards to mounting the trailer board, our boards come with 2 mounting holes. Some people fasten hooks to the rear of the boat and the board can be put on these hooks and others, not wishing to put holes in their boat simply tie the board to the boat with nylon rope.

Question from Mitchell:

Can you tell me what the torque (foot pounds) is for the head and the piston bolts are for a suzuki carry van st90/st90v 1990 model and a price on a work shop manul please?

Answer:

• From ACL’s information the engine should be a F8A 800cc.
• If it is an F8A the torque settings are as follows.
• Cylinder Head. Torque in three stages to 22, 34 and 44 foot pound.
• Con Rod Bolts - 22 foot pound.
• These are the ACL settings & other brands of gaskets may vary a little.

With regards to the manual, we have a listing for a Suzuki Supercarry, but not a Suzuki Carry Van.

Answer from Customer:

Suzuki carry a van workshop manual.

Buying a new car can sometimes be a daunting prospect especially for the inexperienced. While buying a car from a dealer can reduce the risks of problems, especially if the dealer is offering a warranty, there are obviously more risks involved in a private sale. Fortunately there are various resources and tests available to car buyers that helps make the process 'safer' and less stressful. The following is a list of guidelines and checks you should consider before handing over your hard earned cash.

Revs Checks

Revs stands for Register of Encumbered Vehicles. This means that a REVs check will tell you whether there is any outstanding finance owing on the car. To conduct a Revs check you need the following information:

• Registration number
• VIN number, and
• Engine number.

This information can usually be found on the compliance plate under the bonnet.

When buying a car from a dealer you should be supplied with a REVS certificate. However it is your own responsibility when buying privately. To get a REVS check, contact: 13 13 04

WOVR Check

WOVR stands for the written off vehicle register. This check can be done at the same time as a REVs check and will identify whether the car in question has ever been a "statuary" or "repairable" write off. This check is worth doing to ensure the car you are looking at hasn't been severely damaged in the past.

Third Party Vehicle inspection

If you don't have confidence in your own mechanical knowledge to evaluate a vehicle you should always utilize a third party inspection. This can be done by your local mechanic or motoring groups such as the RACQ or RACV. Such an inspection is a valuable tool for the inexperienced in knowing exactly the condition of the car you are buying and ensuring you have no nasty surprises after the deal is done.

Safety Certificate

Previously known as a road worthy certificate a safety certificate is another essential item needed when a sale takes place. Safety certificates are issued by registered mechanics and indicate that at the time of issue the car is safe to drive. Although it is not a guarantee the car isn't going to develop problems in the future it does mean that it was mechanically sound at the time of issue.

Registration

Before you buy a car you should always check that the person you are dealing with is the registered owner of the car and that the car is actually registered. This can be done by checking the seller's license number against the cars registration details which can be obtained from the department of transport. Change of registration papers must be signed by both the purchaser and the seller at the time of the sale. It is important to remember that these checks will vary state to state so ensure you check with your local authority as what is available.

Your car looks its best when it is clean but not only that if you have a fairly new car, its paint job probably still looks pretty good, but unless you regularly wash and wax your it, it won't be long before the colour starts to fade and rock chips begin to rust.

Paint manufacturers recommend people wash their cars weekly, and wax at least three times a year. Waxing does more than help maintain your car's pristine look, it can prevent damage to your car’s paint, whether your car is old or new. Waxing also makes washing easier.

FAQ's ABOUT CAR WASHING

diy-step1What is the difference between a polish and a wax? Polishes contain compounds designed to remove scratches from the surface of your paint, while waxes protect your car with a clear, hard coating. Polishes provide the "shine" for your paint, while wax provides the "protection."

diy-step2Can I use household cleaners to wash my car? Household cleaners like dishwashing detergent are specifically designed to dissolve grease. Because wax is essentially a grease, household cleaners will remove your car's wax finish; leaving you with little shine and no protection. Also, some household detergents have micro-fine abrasive in them. These can permanently scratch your car's surface. Always use a premium quality liquid designed specifically for cars. They are formulated to dissolve dirt and grime without removing your car's shine.

diy-step3What about the car washes at the petrol station? Generally speaking, these are not recommended. Many of those car washes use mechanical brushes which can damage your paint surface. In some parts of the country, the water is recycled, meaning your car is getting the same water as the one before it.

diy-step4What can I do about water spots on the paint? Simply get them off as soon as possible. Attack those water spots before the sun has a chance to evaporate them, and they'll come right off.

The Easter holiday period provides an opportunity for many of us to get away from our daily lives and off the beaten track. Four wheel driving is a popular Australian past time and will play a part in many family holidays this Easter. Here at Supercheap Auto we stock a wide range of Four Wheel Driving products that can help make your off road adventures a success this Easter.

There are a few basic tricks of the trade that everyone with a 4WD should know before they set off. There are also some vital tools available from Supercheap Auto that will ensure you and your 4WD are prepared for whatever situation you get yourself into.

One such product is the 4WD recovery kit which is a great for those who are either learning the sport or who are already experienced 'off roaders'. It comes with everything you need to get out of a tricky situation if you get stuck when tackling tracks, dirt or sand.

The contents:

• Snatch Strap rated to 8 tonne
• Bow Shackles rated to 3 tonne
• PVC fold sheet
• Tyre air pressure gauge
• Folding Shovel
• Leather & canvas gloves
• Carry Bag with reflector that doubles as a winch cable dampener

The Shovel is a must for any off road kit, used to dig around tyres when in a bog hole so that sticks, leaves, stones etc, can be inserted under the wheel for traction. Other items that are important in any recovery kit are a Snatch Strap and Bow Shackles. The strap is connected to each vehicle by a bow shackle at each end. This allows for one vehicle to pull a bogged vehicle out of trouble. Recovery points that are on the vehicles (where the bow shackles attach), need to be professionally fitted and on lookers must stand at least 15 metres away from any vehicle being 'snatched'.

Once onlookers are cleared the towing vehicle should slowly accelerate to take up the slack and 'snatch' the second vehicle out. The bogged 4WD should assist by using its own power in an effort to drive out. If this fails the first time more slack and acceleration should be applied until enough "snatching" power is produced to pull the bogged car clear.

When driving on rocky or sandy terrain, tyre pressure should be reduced to make the tyres softer, and hence increase traction. A Tyre Air Pressure Gauge is needed so that the driver can determine suitable pressure for the tracks ahead. At the end of any off road adventure, tyres must be pumped up (before hitting the 'Black Top'), The gauge is a handy item, particularly if a simple compressor is being used off road.

Gloves and Sheet help to keep hands protected and allow for a clean spot to work on when out in the dirt. The handy Carry Bag is custom made and includes a reflective safety triangle. It lets others know when you are in trouble and alerts other vehicles that you are stopped on the track when the light is starting to dim. When the bag is emptied, it can also be used as a dampener to go over winch wire.

Changing your car's engine oil is relatively simple provided you follow a few simple tips. To keep your car in peak performance, we recommend that you change your oil filter every time you change your oil. Changing your oil at the recommended intervals (check your owner's manual for further information as some makes will vary from this) will ensure that your engine is operating in top condition.

The first step is to drop down to your local Supercheap Auto store and ask one of our team members about the correct oil and the correct oil filter for your application – they will be only too happy to help!

DIY Cleaning Checklist

• Jack & axle stands (a set of car ramps may also be suitable)
• Suitable socket or spanner for sump plug
• Drain pan
• Engine oil
• Oil filter
• Oil filter wrench
• Funnel
• Rags
• Container for old oil
• Warm Up The Engine - Run the engine until normal operating temperature is reached & switch off, as warm oil will drain more effectively than cold oil and help to drain out any built up sludge.
• Raise & Secure Vehicle - Park your vehicle on a level surface and make sure that the handbrake is on and the wheels are chocked. If necessary, jack the car up off the ground and support with axel stands. Alternatively, car ramps can be used.
• Drain Old Oil - Place the drain pan underneath the sump ready to catch the flow. (HOT OIL CAN BURN!) Once all the oil has completely drained, refit the sump plug (preferably with a new gasket) and tighten firmly but not too tight.
• Remove Oil Filter - Using an oil filter removal tool, remove the oil filter.
• Install New Oil Filter - The new oil filter is now ready to be installed. Rub some fresh engine oil over the oil filter gasket and then screw it into location. Hand tight is usually adequate though a slight tighten up with the filter wrench may be necessary when hands are a little oily.
• Refill Oil - Ensure that you know the quantity of oil your car takes before you add any oil to the engine. Never fill exactly the specified quantity of oil immediately as it is good practice to initially fill 80% of the specified capacity. (e.g if your car takes 5 litres put 4 litres in to begin with). Remove the oil filler cap on the top of the engine. Place a medium sized funnel in the aperture and surround the base with a rag or two to catch any spills. Carefully pour in the new oil SLOWLY. Some engines have a habit of developing airlocks which result in the oil spilling back out the filler hole. Periodically, stop pouring and allow the oil to settle down into the engine sump. Check the dipstick until you have the correct level. Note: the dipstick will often indicate an overfill when the correct quantitiy of oil is added. The level will drop once the oil has circulated to the new filter. Start the engine and make sure the dashboard OIL light goes out or the gauge indicates pressure. If not, stop the engine immediately.
• Check Oil Level - Once you are satisfied with your oil level, run your engine for around 1 minute and then shut it off. Check the engine for oil leaks- particularly around the oil filter and sump plug. Re-check oil level.
• Dispose Of Old Oil Correctly - Check with local authorities about disposing of used oil. Many communities have collection centres which will see that oil is disposed of safely. Never dump used oil on the ground, into drains or in the rubbish bin.
• Re-Check Oil Level - After the first few trips following an oil change it is good practice to check your oil level on the dipstick and also check for any oil leaks.

Change your oil more frequently under adverse driving conditions and during cold weather. It can be advisable to switch to a slightly lower viscosity of oil because cold weather causes oil to thicken. Your local Supercheap Auto store would be more than happy to advise on the best oil for your car.

Please Note: If you're uncertain about any part of this guide, please see a qualified mechanic.

A Hose and Fittings, Sponge and Bucket

Get yourself a good long hose and a really effective spray or jet head fitting to blast away any mud and grime adhering to the bodywork, especially under the wheel arches and underbody areas.

Car Wash

There's a terrific range of carwash available from Supercheap Auto. Many have built-in polish and anti-streak additives. Good quality car wash really does make a difference to the finish.

Polish

There are many excellent polishes available that are not expensive yet give you an excellent shine and protection for your paintwork. Many come with important paint protective additives and lasting glazes for a brilliant showroom shine.

Chamois and Polishing Cloths

Buy yourself a good quality chamois to thoroughly dry off the paintwork before polishing. A foam polish applicator and terry towelling polishing cloth will also make application easier and provide a better result.

Cutting Compounds

If the paint finish on your car is a little dull or faded, you can restore the finish with a cutting paste. Available in several grades to suit the amount of restoration you have to do, these are invaluable aids to restoring that show shine to older vehicles.

Interior Protectants

We carry a large range of polishes and specialty cleaning products for the interior of your car. You’ll find a solution for any cleaning task inside your car.

Tyre Shine and Wheel Cleaner

Don’t forget the wheels and tyres when detailing your car! Supercheap Auto has a range of products which will have your wheels and tyres looking better than new.

1. Prepare For Washing

Water restrictions currently apply in many parts of Australia. Check with your local authorities before you start hosing your car – as it could cost you an expensive fine!

If water restrictions prevent you washing your car using a hose, speak to your local Supercheap Auto store about one of the 'waterless' car wash systems.

Using a good strong jet setting, hose off the sticky grime and mud from the undersides and wheel arches of your car. Better still, use a pressure washer. We have those too.

Next, hose the whole car down working from the top and thoroughly wet the surface. Re-wet the surface regularly while you are cleaning the car to prevent any water stains as it dries.

2. Car Wash

Pour the recommended amount of wash into a bucket. Apply the wash liberally over the paintwork working from the roof down. Do not scrub too hard as contaminants attached to your cleaning product may scratch your paint work.

Hose off and rinse away the suds thoroughly. Finish off with a chamois to dry off the surface. Let the car air dry for half an hour before starting to polish.

3. Apply The Polish

If the paint is faded or dull, now is the time to apply a cutting compound to restore the original gloss to your paint finish.

Cutting compound can also be effective in removing light scratches and scuffs from paintwork.

Supercheap Auto stocks many different polishing products from a number of leading brands. For the best results, always read full directions printed on the product prior to use.

To apply the polishing product, use a foam applicator pad, followed by a microfibre or terry towelling polishing cloth to buff to a lustrous shine.

Use a wax or polymer sealant product to maintain long term paint protection.

4. Long Term Protection

We have a range of waxes and polymers which can seal in the shine for long periods of time. Ensure that you have done the best cleaning job possible before using these products as they can seal in any stains!

Your friendly Supercheap Auto team member will happily help you with product selection. diy-experttip Stubborn tar, bugs and road grime can be removed using a good quality Bug and Tar removal product.