So Fix it

A driveshaft transfers the force created by the engine to the drive wheels. Driveshafts can become out of balance, which may cause a number of problems both in terms of mechanical soundness and driving comfort.

Symptoms

An unbalanced driveshaft will wobble while spinning. This wobble may create a vibration felt in the steering wheel while driving or may shake the entire vehicle. The driveshaft may wobble only at certain speeds and not be felt otherwise. An unbalanced driveshaft will also cause increased wear to related components that may require frequent replacement.

Causes

Driveshafts can become unbalanced for a variety of reasons. A vehicle wreck may bend the driveshaft. The driveshaft may also become unbalanced due to loss of balance weights, corrosion or other damage. Bent or significantly damaged driveshafts may be incapable of being balanced and will require replacement.

Repair

Balancing driveshafts requires specialized equipment. A large device similar to a lathe spins the driveshaft and measures balance. Technicians weld small weights onto the driveshaft where needed to properly balance the driveshaft. Car owners should use only an experienced repair technician to tune driveshafts, as the process is complicated.

Rear bumper dents happen after accidents, and are often difficult to remove. Sometimes the dents are pounded or pulled out with heat. Fixing a dent at home is less expensive than taking the car to a body shop for repair. The entire bumper is frequently replaced if the dent is too severe.

Instructions

1

Wash the dented area of the bumper. Remove all dust, dirt and debris.

2

Turn on the hairdryer; move it in a circular motion over the dent. Do not leave the hairdryer in one spot for more than a few seconds. The dent might pop out after a few minutes.

3

Tap the area around the dent with a hammer. Do not create new dents by hammering too hard. The tapping creates vibration; the combination of vibration and heat frequently pops out dents.

4

Move the hair dryer in a circular motion while lightly hammering. Do this for 10 minutes and the dent might pop out. Repeat the process if the dent remains unaltered.

Motor vehicle exhaust systems are all either welded or clamped into place. Each has its benefits and drawbacks; some parts will require one or the other.

Types of Exhaust

Auto exhaust systems typically come from the factory welded together. It is with the replacement of pipes, mufflers and catalytic converters that you will see clamps put into use, though some new cars will come with a combination of clamps and welding. The customization of exhaust systems will also result in frequent clamp use, as will older model vehicles mainly because they have had parts changed.

Benefits of Each

The benefits of welding are the complete seal and prevention of leakage that it provides. This reduces pollution and improves engine compression and possible rattle. Clamped exhaust systems make it far easier to replace parts when necessary and remove the cutting and welding elements from the equation.

Considerations

The drawback to welded exhaust systems, especially when it comes to replacement parts, is the potential for cracking should the weld not be done perfectly. The main drawbacks to clamping are the imperfect seals that are formed, the potential for loosening and the loss of compression and pollution into the air.

Combination Systems

Exhaust elements near to the engine including catalytic converter often require welding because of the high pressure exhaust they withstand due to their placement. Clamps tend to be used at the back end of the car.