Repair Shop Archive

ARTICLES FROM THE PAST

OCTOBER

SEPTEMBER 15 - OCTOBER 20

That is one of the great mysteries of the universe! The 10mm socket is famously the most common size to go missing for anyone who works on cars or other machinery. It's such a well-known problem that it's become a major running joke among mechanics and DIYers. While I can't magically find your specific socket, here are the most common places they like to hide:

Engine Bay/Under the Car: It likely rolled off a part and fell down into a hard-to-see spot, like a skid plate, subframe, or along a wire harness. Use a flashlight or a flexible inspection camera (if you have one) to look in those deep dark crevices; Toolbox Drawers: It might be hiding under the foam or liner of a drawer, or tucked into a corner you didn't check; Your Pockets: Double-check all of your shirt and pants pockets, especially the deep ones; The Floor/Ground: It probably rolled away under a bench, a tool chest, or even off into the grass or gravel; The Last Thing You Worked On: Did you finish a job recently? It might still be magnetically attached to a wrench, extension, or even stuck on a bolt head you forgot to remove.

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FROM OCTOBER

The "hardest job" for a mechanic typically isn't a single, straightforward repair, but rather a combination of complexity, inaccessibility, and technical specialization. Based on consensus from professional mechanics, the most challenging tasks are: Electrical Diagnostics and Intermittent Issues This is often cited as the most frustrating because it requires more detective work and advanced knowledge than physical labor; The Challenge: Modern vehicles are entirely run by complex computer networks and miles of wiring. An intermittent problem (one that only happens sometimes) means the mechanic has to use advanced diagnostic tools and wiring diagrams to trace a fault that may not be present when the car is in the shop.

Examples: A sporadic dashboard warning light, a module losing communication, or a random power drain that kills the battery overnight. This demands patience and expertise in reading schematics.

NOVEMBER

OCTOBER 20 - NOVEMBER 17

Radiator fixes primarily address leaks, clogs, and trapped air. Fixing Leaks: Add commercial Leak Sealant to the coolant/water, the product circulates and plugs minor leaks. Temporary fix for small leaks to safely reach a repair shop. This can sometimes clog heater cores or coolant channels and is not a permanent solution. Visible Cracks/Holes use JB Weld: The area around the leak must be meticulously cleaned and dried before a specialized epoxy is applied. Short-term to long-term fix for plastic or metal tanks/cores where the damage is isolated and accessible. Radiator Hoses. If a hose is brittle, cracked, or leaking at the connection point, replace it and use new clamps. Tighten the Nut or Valve, a slight tightening with a wrench will stop the leak. If the leak persists, the internal seal may need replacement. Clogs and Contamination Problem: The old coolant is drained, and a specialized radiator cleaner/super flush is added to the system and circulated to break down rust and mineral deposits. Preventative maintenance (usually every 2-5 years) to maintain optimal cooling efficiency. Blockage Power Flushing: An aggressive flushing process that can dislodge stubborn internal blockages in the radiator tubes. For radiators that are still structurally sound but show signs of reduced flow or overheating due to clogs.

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FROM NOVEMBER

Which Part Should You Choose? The optimal choice depends on the component's function: Best for Factory (OEM) Parts Use OEM parts when safety, exact fit, or complex electronics are critical. Safety/Structural Components: Airbags, seatbelts, collision-related body panels, and sensors (like ABS or stability control sensors). Aftermarket body panels may not fit correctly or have proper crumple zones. Complex Electronics/Sensors: Engine Control Unit (ECU), mass airflow sensors, and oxygen sensors. These often need perfect compatibility with the vehicle's computer system. Vehicles Under Warranty or Lease: Using OEM parts helps avoid potential warranty disputes and often satisfies lease return requirements.
Best for Generic (Aftermarket) Parts Use reputable aftermarket brands when cost savings are the priority and quality is less complex: Routine Maintenance Items: Filters (oil, air, cabin), wiper blades, and spark plugs. Brake Pads/Rotors: Many quality aftermarket brands offer options that are equal to or even outperform OEM standards. Performance Upgrades: Suspension components, exhaust systems, and specialized lighting, which are designed to exceed factory specifications. Older Vehicles: Vehicles for which OEM parts are difficult or expensive to source, when choosing an aftermarket part, stick to reputable, well-known brands that specialize in that particular component.

DECEMBER

NOVEMBER 17 - DECEMBER 15

The "best" headlight for your car depends on a few factors, including what's compatible with your vehicle, your budget, and your priorities (like brightness, lifespan, or color). Here is a breakdown of the three main types of headlight bulbs and how to find the right one for your car:
The Right Fit is the First Step Before considering any upgrades, you must find the correct bulb size and type for your specific car: Check Your Owner's Manual: This is the most reliable source and will list the exact headlight bulb number (e.g., H11, 9003, H7, D2S) your car requires.
Check the Current Bulb: The bulb number is often printed on the base of the bulb itself. Use an Online Fitment Guide: Most auto parts store websites or bulb manufacturer websites have tools where you input your car's make, model, and year to find compatible bulbs.

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FROM DECEMBER

A "lifetime brake pad" warranty can be a good deal, but it's important to understand what it actually covers. The Good (Pros) Free Replacement Pads (Parts Only): In most cases, a lifetime warranty means the retailer or manufacturer will give you a new set of brake pads free of charge when your old set wears out for as long as you own the vehicle. This can save you the cost of the parts multiple times over. The Caveats (Cons & Important Details) Labor is NOT Included: This is the biggest catch. The warranty usually covers only the cost of the brake pads. You will still have to pay for the labor to have the new pads installed, which is often the most expensive part of a brake job. "Lifetime" is Limited: The warranty is typically for the lifetime of the product (the pads themselves) and is non-transferable, meaning it only applies to the original purchaser and for as long as you own that specific vehicle.

Jungle Pam Hardy is still alive.

She is the iconic figure known as "Jungle Pam" who was the companion, "backup girl," and sidekick of the legendary Funny Car drag racer, "Jungle" Jim Liberman, in the 1970s.
Here are a few key facts: "Jungle" Jim Liberman's Death: "Jungle" Jim Liberman tragically died in an off-track car accident in 1977.
Jungle Pam Today: Pam Hardy stepped away from the drag racing scene after Liberman's death, but she has continued to keep his memory alive and occasionally makes public appearances at major drag racing events and conventions.
Recent Activity: Reports and interviews confirm her presence at events as recently as 2024 (e.g., the Gatornationals).
"Jungle Pam" Hardy's birth year is cited as 1957 in one source and 1954 in another.