October 1, 2009, 18:41
PURPOSE
The temperature sender unit is a vital component designed to measure the water. As the water temperature varies so does the value of the resistance inside the temperature sender thus sending a different reading to the light or gauge.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR
The temperature sender, whether it be connected to a light or gauge, must have a secure terminal attached to it fitted with a temperature warning light. The light should appear when the ignition is turned on. If fitted with a gauge the gauge should start on cold when the ignition is turned on and gradually move to another value to around normal position. Again, temperature gauges and lights must be listened to and rectified if they continue to come on or climb up the needle. If the needle climbs up high it’s time to turn the vehicle off.
IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
A temperature sender unit sending the value to a gauge may be costly to replace. The temperature sender gauge type may cost $30.00-$80.00 and a temperature sender sending the value to a light may cost around $20.00-$30.00.
TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
It is not a good idea to disconnect a temperature sender as it will save a lot of time and money when this warning device is required to turn on or give you the correct value of the water temperature. If in doubt, see your local auto electrician.
October 1, 2009, 18:39
PURPOSE
The temperature gauge is designed to let you know what is happening in the cooling system. To let you know in advance if something is wrong. The gauge should always start on the cold when the engine is first started, then climb to a normal operating temperature after running for about 30 minutes.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR
Gauges must be seen at all times. They must move from one value, being cold, to another value, being hot. If the gauge stays on cold or doesn’t move then this is a warning sign. Get it checked ASAP. The same applies if the gauge stays on hot or just in the middle. If a gauge climbs 3/4 of the way the engine should be switched off and then wait for at least 30 minutes before checking the water. Every minute of driving a vehicle on high may add a $100.00 to the repair of the cooling system.
IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
Temperature gauges can be expensive. The wreckers is an option.
TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
No temporary repair for the temperature gauge.
October 1, 2009, 18:37
PURPOSE
The starter motor relay is designed to switch a 12 volt power supply from the ignition to the starter motor solenoid. The starter motor relay may also be fitted to an older vehicle with a possible voltage loss on this 12 volt supply. A starter motor relay is a high current switch that may malfunction after 5-10 years in operation.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR
A starter motor relay if fitted as an after market item may malfunction if the wiring connected to it is not soldered correctly or the relay itself is not of good quality. Relays are only as good as the power connected to them, the connections and the relay itself must be of good quality. A clicking starter motor may be the cause of a faulty relay. Bridging the starter motor may determine this as being a faulty relay, faulty wiring or an intermittent problem with the inhibitor switch.
IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
A standard relay will cost around $25.00. Consult with your local auto electrician about fitting a relay as he might have the relays made up with the wiring, ready to install onto the starter motor.
TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
If you are stranded on the road and the relay decides to malfunction, bypassing the relay or bridging the starter motor might be the only way to start the engine enabling you to get home.
October 1, 2009, 18:33
PURPOSE
The starter motor is designed to crank the engine until it starts. This is performed with a pinion gear which is connected to a fly wheel or a ring gear at the rear of the motor. A starter motor will require somewhere between 50-100 cranking AMPS to be energised and crank the motor. The start motor should last for at least 5-10 years but unfortunately they don’t.
THINGS TO LOOK FOR
A starter motor may start to create a high pitch when cranking. This is an indication that the ring gear is wearing out and needs to be attended to ASAP. Common problems with a starter motor component are breakdowns or a non start. Starter motors have components that make it reconditionable most of the time. A click is also another indication that the starter motor is failing to connect inside the internal mechanisms.
IS IT EXPENSIVE TO REPAIR?
Starters motors usually cost between $150.00-$200.00. A reduction type starter motor may cost from $150.00-$300.00 depending on the repairs.
TEMPORARY REPAIR AND LONG TERM REPLACEMENT
Starter motors can be repaired. Find a very good auto electrician as some will just replace the bare essentials while others will replace it completely. The option here is if the starter motor can be replaced with a new item for an extra $30.-$50.00 take the replacement option. As a new unit will come with a guarantee from the manufacturer. A reconditioned starter motor is only good provided that the auto electrician is reliable.