Wheels and Engines

p u n x s u taw n e y

Wheels and

hometown a special edition of

hometown magazine spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140

Engines Test Drives

Fun with ATVs Mowing Tips

On the Road Again

Go Online to view this section!

www.punxsutawneymagazine.com

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Test Drives: A Great Way To

Find The Right Ride

Cars are among the most expensive purchases a person will make during a lifetime.

That said, drivers want to make sure their next vehicle is the right one for them.

While research into vehicle safety and performance history is essential, perhaps nothing gives drivers a better idea of how well a car meets their needs and driving style than a test drive. Many dealers allow men and women to test drive vehicles by themselves, allowing buyers to get the feel of a car without feeling pressured or distracted by salesmen.

When test driving a vehicle, it's always good to comparison shop, test driving different vehicles to get a better idea of what's available.

Drivers who have owned and driven the same vehicle for a number of years can be easily overwhelmed when test driving a new car, which is likely more smooth and boasts more amenities than an older vehicle. That's why it's important to test drive a handful of new vehicles. This gives drivers a better point of reference for what a new car offers better than its competitors, and not a one-sided issue of what a new car offers compared to an older vehicle.

The following are some of the factors to consider when deciding which car to buy.

Visibility

Many drivers buying a new car, after years driving the same vehicle, might find it difficult to judge visibility. Familiarity with an old car

feel each bump in the road, but the superior handling attracts drivers who revel in acceleration.

Comfort often depends on the type of vehicle, and buyers who have a specific type in mind should only test drive vehicles within that type.

This will give an idea of which one within a certain category is the most comfortable.

braking

Braking can be hard to evaluate, but it should feel smooth and should not feel as if the car is stopping too fast or too slowly. If possible, bring a passenger along and ask if he or she notices anything when the car brakes.

Handling

An automobile's ease of visibility is an important factor consumers must consider before buying a new car. can make it hard to get used to a new one. When judging visibility, determine if the view of the road is adequate and if the side and rearview mirrors can meet your needs. Sometimes a rear window is too small for drivers used to bigger rear windows, and this can prove a safety risk down the road. Don't be distracted by the vehicle's comfort. If the visibility is poor (and visibility varies for each individual), then the car probably isn't the right fit.

Comfort

Comfort is important for many reasons. Cars are big investments, and drivers have the right to drive a comfortable vehicle. A comfortable ride can also speak volumes about a vehicle's engineering. If a car is noticeably uncomfortable, drivers should be suspicious about the rest of the vehicle. Suspension plays a role in comfort, but suspension might also depend on the type of vehicle. A sports car, for example, might

How a vehicle handles will go a long way toward how it avoids emergency situations on the highway. The vehicle should be easy to maneuver on the road. Take note if the vehicle moves too quickly or too slowly with sudden movements. Unless you experience an emergency while test driving a car, it's impossible to gauge how a vehicle will respond in an emergency. However, publications like Consumer Reports perform road tests that include emergency handling tests. Such information should be considered before buying a car.

When test driving a car, it's best to consider a host factors beyond just cost and a car's aesthetic appeal.

•••

On the road again Dos and Don'ts of Road Trips

Road trips are a tradition enjoyed by people of all shapes and sizes. Cross country trips, adventurous jaunts through Europe and spring break excursions to warmer climates are just a few of the more popular road trips travelers enjoy each and every year.

Though road trips leave travelers largely in control of their own getaways, there are ways trips can quickly spiral out of control. Careless planning or unforeseen auto troubles can turn a dream road trip into a nightmare. Before setting on a road trip this season, travelers would be wise to consider the following dos

Speed and Sport Cycle Center Rt. 436 • 430 S. Main St., Punx’y • 938-8780 or 938-6952

www.speedandsportcyclecenter.com SaleS • PaRtS • SeRviCe • Cylinder Boring • Pa State inspection *Finance offer subject to credit approval, applies to purchases of new Yamaha ATVs made on a Yamaha Installment Financing loan account from 1/1/12-6/30/12. Minimum contract length is 24 months, maximum 36 months. Minimum amount financed is $5,000. Fixed APR of 3.99%, 4.99%, 5.99% or 12.99% will be assigned based on credit approval criteria. Monthly payments per $1,000 financed based on 36 month term are $29.52 at 3.99% and $27.97 at 12.99%. **Customer Cash offer good on select 2011 (and prior year) models between 1/1/12-6/30/12.

Offer good only in the U.S., excluding the state of Hawaii. ATVs with engine sizes over 90cc are recommended for use only by riders age 16 years and older. Yamaha recommends that all ATV riders take an approved training course. For safety and training information, see your dealer or call the ATV Safety Institute at 1-800-887- 2887. ATVs can be hazardous to operate.

For your safety: Always avoid paved surfaces. Never ride on public roads. Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing; never carry passengers; never engage in stunt riding; riding and alcohol/ drugs don’t mix; avoid excessive speed; and be particularly careful on difficult terrain. ©2012 Yamaha Motor Corp. U.S.A. All rights reserved. • yamaha-motor.com Printed 05-12

Ingham & Sons Automotive Services 22368 Rt. 119 Indiana Hill

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and don’ts of road tripping. do: PrePare tHe VeHiCle. Nothing is more integral to a successful road trip than a vehicle that can withstand the trials and tribulations of the road. No one is happy when a vehicle breaks down during a road trip, but such breakdowns are almost always preventable. Though a flat tire or a car accident can't be predicted, drivers can safeguard themselves against mechanical problems by taking their car to a mechanic a few days before the trip begins. Make sure to do so several days in advance so if the car needs work, the mechanic has ample time to make any repairs. Waiting till the last minute is a bad idea, as there’s no guarantee the mechanic can fit the car into his schedule. Also, waiting until the last minute might prove more expensive, as mechanics might be forced to have new parts shipped overnight to ensure the trip can start on time. Such shipping costs will be passed on to the automobile owner.

See 5 ROAD TRIPS page 4

Welcomes Bruce Dickey Now serving friends, family and former customers from the Punxsutawney area.

Rt. 119 South, DuBois • www.JohnsonAuto.com • (814) 371-4444 2 ◆ Punxsutawney Hometown’s Wheels and Engines Edition ◆ Spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140

Lower your insurance costs this year

At the start of a new year, many people reflect on the year that just passed and look for ways to improve their lives over the course of the next 12 months. For some, that means making resolutions. For others, it means finding ways to save money.

For the latter group, saving money doesn't have to mean pinching pennies. In fact, there are ways to save money without altering your lifestyle or making any sacrifices.

One such way is to peruse your insurance policies and determine if there are any ways you can reduce insurance costs. The following are some of the ways consumers can save on their automotive and home insurance policies.

automotive

Auto insurance is a necessity for anyone who owns a vehicle, be it a car, truck or motorcycle. While it's a necessary expense, safe drivers should know that many insurance companies will reward them with lower rates so long as they remain accident- and citation-free. In addition to remaining a responsible driver, there are other ways to lower the cost of auto insurance this year.

• Choose higher deductibles.

Most drivers know the deductible is the amount of money they must pay before their insurance cover-

age kicks in. Safe drivers looking to save money can choose higher deductibles and save a substantial amount of money over the course of a year. Of course, should you get in an accident, you will have to pay more out of your own pocket.

• Reduce coverage. When buying a new car, many drivers choose or are forced to purchase comprehensive coverage.

However, once a car is older or an auto loan has been paid in full, drivers can choose to reduce their coverage to save money. This is especially viable for drivers who own cars with a low market value, as any claims you make likely won't exceed the cost of the insurance or, in some instances, the cost of the deductible.

• Stop being so flashy. That sports coupe or luxury car might turn heads, but it also costs a small fortune to insure. This year, consider turning in a flashy car for one that's just as reliable but costs less to repair and is less appealing to thieves. Each of those things is considered when determining the cost of an insurance policy, and cars that aren't as flashy and are not as attractive to thieves cost significantly less to insure.

•••

310 lawn & GaRden Family Owned & Operated

SaleS & Service Speed and Sport Cycle Center

2056 Route 310, Reynoldsville

Rt. 436 • 430 S. Main St., Punx’y 938-8780 or 938-6952 www.speedandsportcyclecenter.com SaleS • PaRtS • SeRviCe Cylinder Boring • Pa State inspection

NEW EXTENDED SPRING HOURS Monday - Friday 8 to 6; Saturday 8 to 1; Closed Sundays

*The above financing programs are offered by Sheffield Financial, a Division of BB&T Financial, FSB. Minimum Amount Financed $1,500; Maximum Amount Financed $50,000. Subject to credit approval.

Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Other financing offers are available. See your local dealer for details. Financing promotions void where prohibited. Offer effective on select models new and unused Suzuki ATVs, Scooters and Motorcycles purchased from a participating Suzuki dealer between 4/1/12 and 5/31/2012. Offer subject to change without notice. An example of monthly payment required on a purchase where the Amount Financed is $7,500, your Down Payment is $0 with 60 monthly payments of $125.00 each. ANNUAL PERCENTAGE RATE 0%. At Suzuki, we want every ride to be safe and enjoyable. So always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing.

Never ride under the influence of alcohol or other drugs. Avoid excessive speeds. Never engage in stunt riding. Study your owner’s manual and always inspect your Suzuki before riding. Take a riding skills course. For the course nearest you call the Motorcycle Safety Foundation at 1-800-446-9227. Suzuki, the “S” logo, and Suzuki model and product names are Suzuki Trademarks or ®. © American Suzuki Motor Corporation 2012.

814-938-4443

*Rebate is eligible only on new in-stock snapper 30" & 33" deck Rear Engine Rider models. Qualifying product must be purchased between 5/1/12 and 5/29/12. Total rebate is in the amount of $100 and will be issued in the form of a check by mail. Please submit a completed mail-in rebate certificate, original or copy of purchase receipt dated between 5/1/12 and 5/29/12 to The Advertising Checking Bureau, Inc. (ACB). Mail-in rebate certificates are available at the selling dealer and www.snapper.com. submissions must be postmarked by 6/28/12. Rebate checks will be mailed in 6-8 weeks of receipt by The Advertising Checking Bureau, Inc. (ACB). Offer valid only in U.s. and Canada. Briggs & stratton and The Advertising Checking Bureau, Inc. (ACB) is not responsible for lost, late, incomplete, damaged, misdirected, illegible or postage-due request/mail. no facsimiles or mechanical reproductions are accepted. Void where prohibited, taxed or restricted.

120055 k

Printed 05-12

Spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140 ◆ Punxsutawney Hometown’s Wheels and Engines Edition ◆ 3

Road Trips Continued from page 2

don’t: bring too muCH along.

Novice road trippers often make the mistake of packing too much into the car. This creates a few problems.

First and foremost, a crowded car is an uncomfortable car. Road trippers spend a significant amount of time in the car, so driver and passenger(s) alike will want to be comfortable. A case of bottled water might save a few dollars, but those savings should not come at the expense of comfort.

Another downside to packing too much is the effect it might have on fuel efficiency. Fuel costs are still sig-

nificant, and a car that's weighed down with unnecessary items will need more fuel to operate. Families of young children, for example, don't need to pack a backup stroller just in case the primary stroller breaks. The chances of that happening are slim, and the second stroller is likely only going to take up space and decrease fuel efficiency. Avoid double-packing items and keep in mind the vehicle does not need to be a rolling pantry. do: enjoy tHe road.

Part of the joy of road trips is their laid back nature. Unlike other vaca-

tions that require travelers get to the airport by a certain time, road trips allow travelers to move at their own paces. Enjoy the opportunity to vacation without having to wait in long lines at airports or sit through long layovers. Enjoy the road and the scenery it provides. Don't feel as though the trip needs to adhere to a strict schedule. Such schedules will make the trip seem hurried, robbing it of its relaxing nature. don't: be surPrised by delays.

Expect delays when traveling by car. Rush hour traffic and road work

will rear their ugly heads sometime during the trip. Build these delays into the trip so they're less stressful when they inevitably appear. In addition, plan for pit stops to stretch your legs or enjoy an early dinner during rush hour. Vacation should not include the daily grind of rush hour. do: get some rest.

It's tempting for road trippers to burn the midnight oil, as roads are less crowded late at night and it's easy to make up for any lost time that occurred during the day. This is especially tempting when little kids are along, as parents feel they can truly make up hours while the little ones are asleep. However, drivers must get some rest themselves. Despite being sedentary while behind the wheel of a

car, drivers do get tired and it's easy to fall asleep at the wheel when it's dark out and the highway is essentially empty. No matter how much time needs to be made up, drivers must get adequate rest. don't: leaVe little time to get Home.

Eventually, the car is going to have to turn around and come home. Don't leave all that driving to one day. Take a different route home and enjoy new sights and stopovers along the way. If the return trip is made with few stops, chances are travelers will be road weary upon returning home, and all that R&R earned on the trip will have been for naught.

•••

Learn the proper way to rotate tires Rotating tires is something that many people do religiously while others put off the task until they notice a problem with the car's performance. An important component of vehicle upkeep, rotating tires not only extends the life of the tires, but it also helps ensure safer driving.

There are some who are unfamiliar about how and when to rotate the tires and the benefits this routine maintenance can provide. This also could be a factor in why people procrastinate on tire rotation.

One may not realize that the front tires often bear the brunt of the work in vehicle operation. Making turns or parallel parking requires the force of the front tires. Vehicles that are front-wheel-drive have front tires that supply the main motive power for the vehicle, according to Edmunds.com. The frequent use and requirements of the tires produces friction on the road, and eventually heat. The front tires wear more quickly than the rear tires. In order to extend the life of the tires, drivers must periodi-

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cally rotate them.

Tire rotation essentially means moving the front tires to the rear and vice-versa. This means the front passenger side tire will be moved to the back passenger side position. The same thing will occur on the driver's side. There's a reason for this. Tires have unique wear patterns that are related to the suspension and the alignment. Should you switch the tires in a criss-cross pattern, it could affect the alignment and lead to a bumpy ride.

These scenarios can depend on the vehicle and the tire, however.

Certain vehicles have tires of different sizes in the rear and front, which prevents front-toback rotation.

There are also cars that have tires that are unidirectional, where they are specific to one side of the car and asymmetrical, with a tread pattern that changes from the

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4 ◆ Punxsutawney Hometown’s Wheels and Engines Edition ◆ Spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140

inside of the tire to the outside.

Though these tires are rare, you can't rotate them at all.

Tire rotation is adviseable to preserve balanced handling, traction and even outer tire wear. But how often should it be done? Many tires should be rotated every 3,000 to 5,000 miles, even if they don't show signs of wear. Some service stations will do tire rotation at the same time that oil changes are done because

the car is already on a lift.

Don't expect tire rotation to correct wear problems due to worn mechanical parts or as the result of improper inflation pressure.

Rotation is not the only tire maintenance task to do to ensure safe tires.

Consult with a tire shop to determine the best pattern for rotating your tires and the ideal time interval between rotations.

•••

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5

Steps To Avoid Engine Overheating It is a common sight many an automobile owner is all to familiar with: A car is stranded on the side of the road with the hood open and smoke billowing out as an exasperated driver looks on shaking his or her head.

An overheated engine can render a car useless in a matter of minutes. A vehicle is propelled by an engine that ignites gasoline and causes controlled explosions within. An engine can produce quite a

lot of heat. Compound this with external temperatures and an overheated engine may occur. Other mechanical factors can also cause an engine to overheat. These include a faulty thermostat to regulate coolant supply to the engine and even an inoperable radiator fan.

Experts say an average car engine is designed to operate within 195 to 220 F. Anything above that could cause engine fail-

ure. Overheating can cause a lot of damage to a car. It may damage and burn holes in the parts. Rings, pistons or rod bearings may become impaired, or one can blow a head gasket. Coolant is designed to protect an engine to a point, but it can also become compromised under high heat. Boiling coolant may cause the radiator and hoses to burst.

The best way to avoid engine and vehicle trouble due to overheating is

to prevent an engine from becoming overheated in the first place. Here are strategies to employ.

1. Ensure that coolant levels are maintained and there are no leaks that would cause coolant to drip out.

Be sure the right coolant is being used for the particular vehicle.

2. Dirty, inadequate motor oil cannot dissipate heat as well as clean oil.

Check the oil level and viscosity.

Change the oil before a long trip or if See 5 STePS page 8

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Offers good on new and unregistered units purchased between 3/1/12-5/31/12. *On select models. See your dealer for details. ** Rates as low as 3.99% for 36 months. Offers only available at participating Polaris® dealers. Approval, and any rates and terms provided, are based on credit worthiness. Other fi nancing offers are available. Applies to the purchase of all new ATV and RANGER models made on the Polaris Installment Program from 3/1/12 - 4/30/12. Fixed APR of 3.99%, 7.99%, or 10.99% will be assigned based on credit approval criteria. Examples of monthly payments over a 36 month term at 3.99% APR: $29.52 per $1,000 fi nanced and at 10.99% APR: $32.73 per $1,000 financed. Warning: The Polaris RANGER and RANGER RZR are not intended for on-road use. Driver must be at least 16 years old with a valid driver’s license to operate. Passengers must be at least 12 years old and tall enough to grasp the hand holds and plant feet firmly on the floor. Drivers and passengers should always wear helmets, eye protection, protective clothing, and seat belts. Always use cab nets. Be particularly careful on diffi cult terrain. Never drive on public roads or paved surfaces. Never engage in stunt driving, and avoid excessive speeds and sharp turns. Riding and alcohol/drugs don’t mix. Check local laws before riding on trails. ATVs can be hazardous to operate. Polaris adult models are for riders 16 and older. For your safety, always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing, and be sure to take a safety training course. For safety and training information in the U.S., call the SVIA at (800) 887-2887. You may also contact your Polaris dealer or call Polaris at (800) 342-3764. ©2012 Polaris Industries Inc. Printed 05-12

Spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140 ◆ Punxsutawney Hometown’s Wheels and Engines Edition ◆ 5

KAWASAKI CARES: Warning: The TERYX® Side-x-Side can be hazardous to operate. For your safety: Always wear a helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Never operate under the influence of drugs or alcohol. Avoid excessive speeds and stunt driving. Be extra careful on difficult terrain. Protect the environment.

The Kawasaki TERYX® Side-x-Side in an off-highway vehicle only, and is not designed, equipped or manufactured for use on public streets, roads or highways. ©2012 Kawasaki Motors Corp., U.S.A. 12TRX6X5C

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Try these mowing tips to keep your lawn healthy

by Joe Lamp’l Scripps Howard News Service On any Saturday morning, America starts its engines for that weekly ritual of mowing. As the symphony of engines roars to a start, the silence of an otherwise peaceful morning is broken, and an estimated 54 million lawns are cut - every week during the spring and summer.

Mowing at my house awakens no neighbor. My lawn is small enough to mow with a new version of an old classic, the reel mower. Modern technology combined with classic style and functionality creates the best of both worlds. As I quietly perform that necessary ritual, I enjoy knowing that my push-powered mower adds no environmental or noise pollution.

Whatever your tool of choice, here are some pointers on how to mow for a healthier lawn and environment: First off, make sure your blade is sharp. Tearing, as with a dull blade,

as opposed to shearing with a sharp blade, is a night-and-day difference.

Tearing creates jagged edges, makes for longer recovery time and allows more opportunities for pests and diseases to move in.

Minimize the trauma to grass blades. Cut no more than one-third of the blade's length. We "prune" our lawns -- taking off more than a third in one cutting may cause more stress than the plant's ability to fully recover. Such stress can take its toll, especially during hot and dry -- or even persistently damp -- conditions.

Another reason to mow high is that the taller the blade, the deeper the roots, and the deeper the roots, the more drought-tolerant your lawn is.

Need another reason? Taller grass shades out competing weeds that need bright sunlight to establish and thrive. Although certain weeds may sprout, they may not become as prominent if they can't get the required sunlight. And during the high heat of summer, raise the

mower even higher to help the grass conserve water and overcome heat stress.

If possible, don't mow wet grass.

Mowing grass when it's wet will cause uneven shearing and leave behind wet clumps, which can become matted, and suffocate other areas of your lawn, leaving dead patches. Even worse, wet grass can

be more easily spread disease.

To bag or not to bag? Grass cycling is the natural recycling of grass clippings by leaving them on the lawn when mowing, rather than bagging and removing them. It's such a simple way to mow, and a great timesaver. In fact, studies indicate that when you leave grass clippings on the lawn, as they decompose they contribute enough organic matter and nitrogen to reduce fertilization needs by about 25 percent a year.

You'll also be relieved to know that grass cycling does not promote weed growth as long as you mow on a consistent basis. Accordingly, you'll reduce the chances of weeds going to seed and being disbursed naturally. This may necessitate that you cut your grass a bit more frequently, especially during peak growing times, but it's also a great way to make sure you don't remove too much of the grass blades at one time.

And contrary to what some believe, grass cycling does not pro-

mote thatch. Abundant research disproves the common misconception.

Thatch buildup is caused by grass stems, shoots and roots, not grass clippings. Clippings, which consist of about 75 percent water, decompose quickly while adding nutrients to the soil.

Lawns have a bad reputation as water hogs, and yet they don't require a daily or even semi-daily soaking. On average, lawns need about 1 inch of water a week in the absence of rain. Well-established, properly maintained lawns can get by on even less. Healthy lawns are quick to recover, too. My lawn gets water only when it loses its sheen and doesn't spring back to life when stepped on. The system is a great way to conserve water, toughen up a lawn, and also keep weeds at bay.

(Joe Lamp'l, host of "Growing a Greener World" on PBS, is a master gardener and author. For more information visit www.joegardener.com. For more stories, visit scrippsnews.com.)

•••

BROOkVILLE FARM & GARDEn EQUIPMEnT, InC. 142 Allegheny Blvd., Brookville, PA 15825 • 814-849-2548

6 ◆ Punxsutawney Hometown’s Wheels and Engines Edition ◆ Spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140

Fun With All-terrain vehicles, often referred to as ATVs, are fun recreational vehicles designed to let you travel through conditions for which ordinary vehicles might not be equipped, such as steep mountain trails and rocky country paths.

Many people use ATVs for work purposes, such as farm labor. But it doesn't have to be all work and no play. Riding ATVs can be a fun family outing, as well as a solitary getaway.

Safety should always come first when riding an ATV. Consider taking an ATV RiderCourse. Once you do, it's time to head out for some fun!

Picnicking

Have you ever wanted to have a peaceful picnic somewhere away

Printed 05-12

from civilization, but dismissed the idea because you didn't want to walk very far or drive your vehicle over rough, bumpy surfaces?

Well, get your picnic basket back out. With the help of your ATV, you can now get to that remote location without blowing a tire or even breaking a sweat.

By riding your ATV, you'll be able to get to picnic locations your vehicle or feet may not have ever been able to reach.

nature trails

Hiking a nature trail is enjoyable recreation whether you're walking, pedaling a bike, or riding an ATV. However, when you have the power of an ATV beneath you, you can get up and down those rocky hills much

ATVs

easier than the pedestrians and bicyclists.

You'll also be able to carry things pedestrians and bicyclists might not want to carry or be able to balance.

With an ATV, it's easy to bring a backpack filled with a camera, extra water, sun block, and a first-aid kit.

The extra weight won't matter on an ATV. Just strap the items onto your rack and go.

Hunting and fishing

ATVs can get you to and from your hunting or fishing location while still keeping you in touch with the outdoors. Riding your ATV to the lake is much more fun than walking or taking the car.

Plus, ATVs help you haul your catch back to the house. This is an especial-

ly useful benefit for hunters who have just bagged a large deer, or fishermen who don't want their cars to stink for days.

riding events

Riding events are often coordinated for ATV riders to get together with other riders.

But, ATV riding events are so much more than just riding your ATV. During an ATV riding event, you can take a lengthy guided tour of a gorgeous park or a simple organized ride through a nature trail.

No matter what the objective of the ATV riding event is, it's designed to offer you a fun journey with an interesting view from the comfort of your ATV seat.

fun for kids

ATVs aren't just for adults; kids can enjoy them, too. Just make sure your child is riding an ATV built specifically for people of his or her size, and always accompany your child when he or she wants to ride.

The ATV Safety Institute recommends not allowing children under the age of 16 to ride without adult supervision. It also provides several tips for working with young riders.

Tread Lightly! is a nonprofit organization that offers information for all kinds of outdoor activities for kids, including ATV riding. Download their online brochure, Responsible ATV Riding, to help your kids ride safely and responsibly while respecting the environment and others.

•••

Spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140 ◆ Punxsutawney Hometown’s Wheels and Engines Edition ◆ 7

5 steps Continued from page 5

it looks past its prime.

3. Confirm radiator hoses are in good working order and do not look worn out.

4. Have a mechanic check that a radiator fan is working and that there is adequate air flow through the radiator.

5. Be aware of engine temperature by watching the gauge on the

dashboard.

If an engine seems like it's about to overheat, here are some steps to take.

• Slow down, and pull into the right lane. Turn on the heat in the car and open the windows. This may draw heat out of the engine block, while maintaining a slow pace can continue to draw air over the engine.

• Pull over and open the hood to

allow the engine to cool.

• Top off the radiator with coolant. Water can also work in a pinch.

• Take frequent breaks during long road trips to allow the engine to cool down for at least 15 minutes.

• Be sure to clear the radiator from obstructions, including leaves or insects that may have collected.

an overheated engine can render a car useless in a matter of minutes.

Men and women without auto maintenance experience should not touch anything under the

hood. Consult with a mechanic to determine engine overheating causes.

•••

S AV E B I G ! ! ! $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

2006 Chevrolet Cobalt LS

2008 Suzuki XL7 AWD

2006 Ford Freestyle Limited

2 Dr, Auto, AC, Pwr Steering, Pwr Brakes, AM/FM/CD

Luxury Edition, Leather, Heated Seats, 3rd Row Seats, 4x4, Every Available Option!

AWD, Leather, Heated Seats, Power Moonroof, Low Miles!

Tons Of Options!

2006 Chrysler PT Cruiser Convertible

2006 Chevrolet Impala LT

Auto, AC, Nicely Equipped

6 Cyl, Auto, AC, Pwr Seat, Too Many Options To List

$8,950 OR $159 $159//MO. 2006 Jeep Wrangler X Hard Top, 6 Speed, 4x4, AC, Nicely Equipped, Aluminum Wheels, Low Miles

$16,950 OR $269/MO.

READY FO R SPRING!

$9,950 OR $189/MO.

$16,950 OR $299/MO. WON’T LAST

2005 Ford Freestar SE 7 Pass, All Power Options, TV/DVD, Nicely Equipped

$9,950 OR $179/MO. 2009 Pontiac G6 GT Auto, AC, PW, PL, Tilt, Cruise, Nicely Equipped

$14,950 OR $239/MO.

ATTENTION! RURAL MAIL CARRIERS RIGHT SIDE DRIVE

$11,990 OR $219/MO.

$9,950 OR $199/MO. 2006 Ford Explorer “Eddie Bauer Edition” 4x4, Nicely Equipped

$12,990 OR $239/MO. 2008 Dodge Nitro SXT

Auto, AC, CD, Low Mi, Nicely Equipped

$15,950 OR $249/MO.

2008 Kia Sorento EX

2009 Dodge Journey SXT 4x4

Auto, PW, PL, Tilt, Cruise, AM/FM/CD, LOW MILES, Nicely Equipped

6 Cyl, Auto, AC, All Pwr Options, CD, Nicely Equipped, Extra Clean, 7 Pass

$16,990 OR $299/MO.

ONLY $13,950 OR

$249/MO.

2003 Toyota Rav4 4x4 Auto, AC, Tilt, Cruise, PW, PL, Nicely Equipped

$9,950 OR $199/MO.

2006 Hummer H3

2004 Jeep Wrangler X Auto, AC, 4x4, AM/FM/CD Hardtop, Nicely Equipped!

2006 Dodge Dakota SLT Quad Cab

2010 Subaru Forester 2

4x4, V8, Auto, PW, PL, 4 Door, Nicely Equipped

AWD, 5 Spd, 4 Cyl, All Power Options, CD, Nicely Equipped, Gas Saver

$13,950 OR $249/MO. 2002 Jeep Liberty Ltd

$17,950 OR $289/MO.

A Must Se e!

6 Cyl, Auto, AC, Leather, Htd Seats, Alum Whls, Too Many Options To List

$8,950 OR $199/MO.

ALL ROADS LEAD TO

4x4, Auto, All Power Options, CD Too many options to list

$17,950 OR $319/MO.

2010 Jeep Wrangler Unlimited Sport 4 Dr, 4x4, 6 Cyl, 6 Spd, AC, AM/FM/CD

A MUST SEE!

2009 Saturn Outlook XEL

2005 Ford Explorer Limited

6 Cyl, Auto, All Power Options, AWD, 7 Passenger, Family Mover

Auto, AC, Lthr, Pwr Seats, Htd Seats, Pwr Moonroof, TV/DVD, 7 Pass, Too Many Options To List!

$20,950 OR $329/MO.

$11,950 OR $219/ $219/MO.

$ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $ $

814-948-7777

447 Shawna Rd., Route 219 N., Northern Cambria, PA • www.freedomchryslerjeepdodge.com Hours of Operation: Mon., Tues., Thurs. 9-7; Wed. 9-6; Fri. 9-6; Sat. 9-4 With Approved Credit. Prices Reflect $5,000 Trade. *Prior sales excluded. See dealer for details. Competitor price must be in writing. 5.9% for 75 months with Tax and tags down. Not responsible for typographical/pictorial errors.

CALL OUR LUCKY NUMBER 814-948-7777 8 ◆ Punxsutawney Hometown’s Wheels and Engines Edition ◆ Spring 2012 ◆ Issue #140

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