|
Safety Notice Recommended Reading |
|
Click here to read a story of an imbalance of fuel consumption in a C-172. The pilot , a student, was flying with his instructor (with 1000 hours), and they unexpectedly starved the engine of fuel. Flying at night, they were able to land on a beach. Of course, it could have been much worse, and it could happen to any of us. Take some time out to read what caused the fuel starvation. |
||
|
Winter Weather on Vehicles (Courtesy
Capt Gotshall) Winter
weather is tough on a vehicle, but it is the battery that suffers the most
when the temperatures drop. Your vehicle's battery loses 33% of its power
when the temperature dips below freezing and over 50% of its power when
the temperature falls below zero. To make matters worse, your vehicle
requires more power in the winter to turn over the engine and run the
heater and defroster. A weakened battery can easily fail to start your
vehicle, leaving you stranded in dangerously cold temperatures. Below are
listed a few tips on how to care for and extend the life of your battery
during this winter driving season. Clean your
battery's terminals - Imagine trying to drink out of a straw while you're
pinching the middle of it. Well, that's what it's like when your car's
battery has corroded terminals. The corrosion keeps power from flowing
freely from the battery, reducing the power that is available to start the
car. To avoid this, clean your battery terminals with a wire brush or
spray some battery cleaner on the terminals. Give your
battery a good check-up - If your battery is three years old or older, you
should have it tested to make sure it can survive the coldest winter
months. And don't forget to have your battery tested before you take a
long trip or after it's been recharged. Don't give
up on your battery - Just because you needed a boost to start your car on
a cold morning doesn't necessarily mean that you need a new battery. Your
battery depends on a properly functioning charging system, so make sure
the system is working well before buying a new battery. Your local
AutoZone can test both your battery and your charging system for free,
helping you save money and time by identifying the real problem. Be smart
when you jump-start-If the battery fails, and you need to jump-start a
vehicle, be sure to follow the vehicle manufacturer guidelines.
Jump-starting incorrectly can be dangerous and can damage the vehicle's
electrical system, so always exercise caution when working with the
battery and other electrical components Winter Weather Driving Challenges Winter
weather can challenge even the most experienced driver, making for
hazardous and stress-filled traveling conditions. Snow, sleet and freezing
rain often come quickly and unexpectedly, making it essential for drivers
to prepare in advance for inclement weather. In addition, the colder
weather puts additional strain on critical systems in vehicles. With the
potential for a harsh winter ahead, now is the time to create a winter
driving safety kit. Ice
scraper and windshield de-icer - Seeing clearly is critical for
safety, and your heater and defroster may not be enough to clear ice and
snow off your windows. A good ice scraper and windshield de-icer can clear
off thick ice and help keep it off. Wiper
Blades - Snow and ice easily damage or destroy the wiping surface of a
wiper blade, making vision difficult and travel treacherous. Carrying a
spare set of blades, and changing them at least every six months, is
simple insurance that you can always see your best. Battery
booster pack - Cold weather puts an enormous strain on your battery.
If your battery can't take the cold, or you accidentally drain the
battery, a portable battery booster pack can help get you going. The pack
is compact, rechargeable and can be used anywhere, anytime to boost a dead
battery. Oil
absorbent or kitty litter - No matter how many wheels drive your
vehicle, if none of them have traction, you can easily become stuck. By
spreading oil absorbent or kitty litter around your vehicle's tires, you
provide instant traction on slick, icy roads. Fuel
system antifreeze - Built-up moisture in your car's fuel lines can
freeze in cold weather, leaving you stranded. Keep moisture out of your
car's fuel system by regularly pouring fuel system antifreeze into your
fuel tank. Blankets
and other essentials - No matter how many precautions you take, you
could still be stranded in winter weather. Protect yourself by putting old
blankets in your car. Also, carry warm clothing, flashlights and flares. By carrying
some or all of these items, winter motoring can be safer and more
enjoyable.
|
|
|
|
|
|