Q:  How do I do a basic tune-up?

Many of these cars are getting old, and many are changing owners.  Questionable service histories would automatically warrant a basic tune-up.  We're going to cover what a basic tune-up entails.  Vehicle service interval maintenance items are covered in both the owners manual and the Mazda factory service manual.  Major mileage intervals are at 30,000 miles and 60,000 miles.

Replacement:
• Engine oil and oil filter
• Air filter
• Coolant - flush and replace
• Spark plugs and spark plug wires
• Fuel filters - main and in-tank

Inspection - replace if necessary:
• Radiator hoses, upper and lower - replace clamps with new
• Belts - water pump / alternator, A/C, air pump, power steering
• Battery

Service:
• Fuel injectors - remove and have professionally cleaned
• Ignition timing - adjust ignition timing to Mazda specification; ensure T1 and T2 are correct

Fluids:
• Coolant
• Brake fluid - bleed / flush and refill
• Clutch fluid - bleed / flush and refill
• Windshield wiper fluid - refill and top-off if necessary
• Power steering - refill and top-off if necessary

Additional items, other than engine:
• Transmission fluid - replace
• Rear differential fluid - replace
• Brake pads - inspect, replace if necessary
• Brake rotors - inspect, replace if necessary

Questions?  Comments?  Send email to:  reted@fc3spro.com

08/29/2004