Expert Contributor by Lou Matteo Edgemont Automotive
Back on the Road Again! Happy Summertime, Neighbors! With social distancing restrictions being lifted, we’re again able to be out and about, doing all our beloved summer activities. When life was on hold for a year, so was the operation of our recreational vehicles. Here are some tips for blowing the dust off and safely using those toys. All vehicles that are permitted to be on public roads must have lights and reflectors. Make sure that the lighting systems work and that the reflectors are clean and intact. Always check the pressure and condition of the tires after any extended period of time in storage. Verify if your vehicle is required to have a state safety inspection. Most motor vehicles (depending on registration) and all trailers with a gross weight of over 3,000 pounds need to be inspected.
Trus te
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Complete Vehicle Repair Import • Domestic • Trailers FREE Pickup, Delivery and Drop off
• PA Safety Inspection & Emission Testing • Tires • Brakes • Engine Diagnostics • Scheduled Maintenance • Heating & A/C • Electrical systems • Suspension • Body Control Systems
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You’ve gotten to know me. Now let me prove how expert auto and truck repairs don’t need to be over-priced! Lou Matteo, Edgemont Automotive
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If you are driving your summertime toy, make sure that the battery has a proper state of charge and the engine oil level is checked and adjusted if needed. Before starting the engine, do a quick check under the hood. Our little rodent friends love to build warm nests in the tight spaces around the belts and hoses. Before moving the vehicle, perform a brake pedal check: Push hard as if you were stopping suddenly. This procedure is a quick way to check the integrity of the hydraulic brake system for leaks. If the pedal goes to the floor, repair will need to be performed before it’s safe to drive the vehicle. Your summer recreational vehicle may be a trailer or require the use of one. Check the hitch point for proper operation, and clean and lube it if necessary. Check the safety chains and mounting points for rust or damage from ground rubbing. Wheel bearings will need periodic maintenance. Water and road debris intrusion can damage wheel bearings and cause expensive repairs. Cleaning, inspecting and repacking wheel bearings should be performed in this case. Trailers with brakes need to have the breakaway safety systems installed. There is always an auxiliary battery and a switch to operate this system in conjunction with the service brakes. These items and the trailer’s lights should be checked before each use.
5040 West Chester Pike, Edgemont
Be sure to bring your vehicle to your service professional before extended use, to get a comprehensive inspection and help prevent an interruption to your summer activities.
610-353- 9868 • www.EdgemontAutomotive.com
Be Well. Be Safe. And God Bless America!
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Newtown Square Friends & Neighbors
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