Dave Redinger - The Neighbourhood Mechanic

Dave Redinger who transitioned to his Heavenly home on February 7, 2022 was a licensed auto mechanic with over 40 years in the trade. He operated Dr. H. Honda Specialists in Etobcoke (Toronto). Dave was heard here on The Auto Channel, RIP Dave your knowledge and helpfulness will be welcome by concerned motorists forever.

at 9 AM. Some of these conversations will also be published weekly here on The Auto Channel

August 12, 2005

Help For 1997 Hyundai Tiburon with a 2.0 DOHC engine
Help For 1996 Toyota Avalon

First Daves Ditty:
OK gals listen up! Did you know that the windshield wiper was invented by a Mary Anderson in 1905. They became standard on American cars in 1916. That’s 90 years ago. How long has it been since the wipers on your vehicle have checked?

Hello Dave
I have a quick question. I have a 1997 Hyundai Tiburon with a 2.0 DOHC engine. The vehicle has over 200 thousand kms. I notice that the engine seems to be getting noisy and it burns alot of oil recently. I was told to use a thicker oil until I get the money to fix the problem. Do you think that there is an additive that might help?.
Regards Bob

Dear Bob; 200,000 kms is about the design life of the engine (5000hrs on average). You have been given good advice. Thicker oil will slow oil consumption and excessive noise. However when the cold weather hits continued use of heavy oil will have detrimental effects on the engine. I have a friend who manufactures the popular additive MOLYSLIP. He says it best "there is no such thing as a mechanic in a can". Most additives are preventative not a cure for wear. Sorry.

Hi Dave.
I have a 1996 Toyota Avalon every time I start the engine it sounds rough. It sounds as if it’s not getting enough gas to start. I suspect that it could be a fuel pressure relief valve. Any Ideas?
Tony.

Hi Tony: Definitely does sound as if you have a fuel pressure problem... Have a pressure gauge installed and check bleed down overnight and start-up pressure in the morning. You may just have a dirty filter or the beginning of a fuel pump failure. This work should be performed by a competent shop. As a test try to cycle the key without starting the engine 4 times before you crank the engine. This will allow the system to prime. Still a rough start? Suspect the injectors. Report these results to your tech.

Dave Redinger will answer questions from viewers each week, to ask you can e-mail dave at stikky@ca,inter.net or go to www.am740.ca

Dave's Past Columns