Thursday, March 27, 2014
PT Cruiser Timing Belt Problems
PT Cruisers, like most cars and trucks, have timing belts that turn the camshaft. Over time, the timing belt can fail leaving the car driving poorly and the belt must be replaced.
Function
The function of a timing belt on a PT Cruiser is to turn the camshaft exactly one half the speed of the crankshaft. The camshaft must be aligned properly as it controls the intake and exhaust associated with the movement of the engine pistons.
Problems
There are two main problems associated with the timing belt. The belt can break over time, causing the car to not start or shut down if it breaks in transit. The other problem is the belt can become worn and either slip or stretch out, ruining the timing and can cause the car to run badly.
Remedies
When the PT Cruisers timing belt goes bad, it must be replaced. If the belt breaks while driving, it can cause damage to the engine and valves, meaning added expense and repairs.
Sunday, March 16, 2014
PT Cruiser Power Window Problems
The PT Cruiser is a car model produced by Chrysler Corporation. It is a small, multipurpose vehicle and was introduced in 2000. One of the most frequently reported problems are the windows, and the wiring and switches that power them.
Front/Back Windows
One issue involves the front windows failing to work while the back ones remain fine. The back windows can be controlled from the floor console in the back and from the mid-console; the front ones only respond to the middle console.
Up and Down
Another problem involves the window switch. The windows have no problem going down but dont go back up. This is due to the window switch on the dashboard being damaged or broken.
Alignment Issues
The alignment of the windows can also cause problems. While the windows are up, the insulating strip begins to fall off. The strip tends to gradually get looser. This can impede the windows as they go down and up.
Wednesday, December 11, 2013
Tools Needed for Pad Replacement on a PT Cruiser
Brake pads are anti-skidding parts found in disc brakes. They assist in decreasing heat whenever brakes are applied to stop your car by cushioning the brakes, while increasing the longevity of the rest of your brake system. Maintaining your PT Cruisers brake pads requires certain tools for replacement of these pads.
Tools
Youll need a tire iron to remove the lug nuts on your brake rotor, and a metric wrench set to remove the caliper mounting bolts from your brake caliper. A C-clamp is necessary to fully contract the brake calipers piston, and a torque wrench and 19-mm socket are used to tighten the lug nuts on the brake rotor after replacing your brake pads.
Lubricant
Silicone brake lubricant applies to the wheel mounting studs and the bearing hub of your brake rotor, as well as to the caliper mounting bolts, ensuring your new brake pads are snug fits once installed.
Other Items
Youll need a hydraulic jack to hold up the edge of your PT Cruiser, allowing easy access to the brake pads, and a jack stand to hold the hydraulic jack in place, moving it up or down while giving more or less room for removing brake pads. Use a brake fluid siphon to funnel excess brake fluid from your old brake pads during their removal, and use a bowl to catch the excess brake fluid as it flows through the siphon. A pair of replacement brake pads are installed onto your PT Cruiser once the old pads are taken off. Use a cloth to wipe down the wheel mounting studs, the bearing hub on the brake rotor and the caliper mounting bolts, after your old brake pads are removed.
