How To Change The Engine Oil And Filter On A Peugeot 205 Diesel Part One
Posted by in Engine Oil on August 21, 2011
The Peugeot 205 is a great little car. The original ‘hot-hatch’ – they were immensely popular from the moment they were introduced back in 1983, due to their styling, performance, and nimble handling. The reliability of the diesel versions is the stuff of legend, and there are still plenty of well-maintained examples on the road today.
The cost of running a car has increased enormously over the last decade, and even owners of an economical car like the diesel 205 need to cut unnecessary spending wherever possible. One simple way to achieve this is to do your own oil changes.
The 205 diesel engine has a reputation for being virtually unbreakable, but only if the engine oil and filter are replaced every 6000 miles. This is an easy job to do and will only take around half an hour. Oils and filters can be bought cheaply at any motor factor or car-parts shop. I recommend that you use semi-synthetic oil, as it is more durable than ordinary mineral oil and only a little more expensive.
Before you start, be sure to assemble all the things you will need. These are:
1) 5 litres of semi-synthetic oil for diesel engines
2) New oil filter (FRAM part No. PH5566A)
3) New 16mm copper washer for the sump plug
4) Old washing-up bowl
5) Latex gloves
6) Newspaper
7) Kitchen paper
Tool for sump plug (17mm socket, or 8mm square for turbo engine)
9) Oil filter removal strap
I also like to flatten out a cardboard box to kneel on.
First, the car should be parked on a flat and level surface ideally in a garage, but if not pick a day when the wind isn’t blowing. Start the engine and allow it to reach near normal operating temperature then switch it off. This is because the old oil will drain out more quickly when it is warm. Next, put on your gloves, open the bonnet, and release the oil filler cap on top of the engine. It is orange, has two spring-clips holding it on, and the dip-stick goes down through the middle of it. The filler cap is located at the highest part of the engine. Now spread out the newspaper under the car to catch any drips and place the washing-up bowl under the sump plug. This is located at the lowest part of the engine. If you are fortunate enough to own the turbo version, use the 8mm square tool held in a socket to turn the sump plug anti-clockwise, otherwise, you need a 17mm ring spanner or socket. BE VERY CAREFUL HERE. The oil may be hot enough to burn you and will gush out very quickly when you remove the plug. The oil will stop dripping in a few minutes.
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Important Automotive Related Green Tips
Posted by in Automotive Tips on August 21, 2011
Perhaps the easiest way to reduce the amount of carbon you produce each time you drive is to choose a vehicle that has excellent fuel efficiency. As most consumers are now aware of the impact that their motor vehicles have on the planet, there is a greater demand for cars that have good gas mileage, moreover, with the cost of fuel rising on an annual basis, owning an efficient vehicle can help to reduce personal outlay by a considerable amount. If you are checking out new vehicles with the aim of making a purchase, it can be worth looking in to the option of buying a hybrid. Hybrid cars are now a common site, and are a great way to be a green driver.
The more weight you have in your vehicle, the greater amount of gas that it will use. If you empty your trunk and only carry what is actually necessary, you will burn less fuel and save money. If you have cargo carrier on the roof, take this off until you need it. Also, if the trunk has become a storage unit, do yourself a favor and put the items in your garage. All that you need in your vehicle is a spare tire and a few basic tools.
Many drivers are unaware that by keeping the tires inflated to the right level will reduce road resistance, and therefore offer a better fuel economy. If you are not sure as to what pressure your vehicle’s tires should be, check in the owner’s manual or take your car to a local mechanic.
The manner in which you drive will also have an impact on how much fuel you burn. If you have a tendency to speed up and slow down erratically, you will be using more gas than if you gradually accelerated and decelerated. To get the best fuel economy you should cruise at a respectable speed, the more you use your foot pedals, the less efficient your journey will be. A useful tip is to increase speed before approaching a hill, rather than putting your foot down when on the actual incline.
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