Today's car care article focuses on PCV valve replacement. The PCV valve is a little, inexpensive part that does a big job for your pickup. PCV stands for Positive Crankcase Ventilation.
The crankcase is the bottom area of the engine that holds the oil. When the pickup engine’s running, fuel is burned to generate 
power. Most of the exhaust from combustion goes out through the exhaust system. But some exhaust blows by the pistons and goes into the lower engine, or crankcase.
These hot gases are about seventy percent unburned fuel. This can dilute and contaminate the oil, leading to damaging engine oil sludge. It can also cause engine corrosion in your pickup. At high speeds, the pressure can build up to the point that gaskets and seals start to leak.
Over time, the vented gases will gum up the PCV valve and it won’t work well. That can lead to all of the problems I’ve already described, oil leaks, excessive oil consumption and wasted gas.
Fortunately, it’s very easy to test the PCV valve and quick and inexpensive to replace it at ModernTire of West Hartford. Even so, it’s often overlooked because many drivers don’t know about it.
Check your owner’s manual or ask your ModernTire of West Hartford advisor. If this is the first time you’ve heard of a PCV valve, you might be in line for a PCV valve replacement.
Please ask us about your PCV valve. For the price of a couple of burger combo meals, you can avoid some very expensive deep engine repairs.
Wheel Alignment
Wheel alignment is often overlooked by busy mototist until serious tire damage has been done. One wheel can be knocked out of alignment from the rest by hitting a cyrb or pothole.
The tires will wear out very quickly and will need to be replaced prematurely. It could also lead to suspension damage. Conversely, worn suspension or steering components can lead to alignment problems for motorists.
But the big issue is safety. When your pickup wheels are out of alignment, the vehicle will pull to one side, which could lead to an accident. When you’re out of alignment, you should have it taken care of right away at ModernTire of West Hartford.
Signs of alignment problems are: Your car pulls to one side. Also, your steering wheel may not be centered when you’re going straight. If you see the edges of one or more tires rapidly wearing down, you should have your technician at ModernTire of West Hartford look it over.
If you've been in an accident in that involved a wheel, you should get your alignment checked. A big jolt can seriously knock things out of alignment, but drivers also need to understand that a series of smaller onces can add up. Worn steering or suspension components can also lead to alignment problems for drivers. That's why your pickup manufacturer recommends periodic alignment checks.
If your pickup owner’s manual doesn’t specify, once a year might be appropriate. Or check with John, Brian, & Andy DeSimone or your service advisor at ModernTire of West Hartford. He’ll also be able to tell you if your vehicle requires a four wheel alignment or if just the front wheels can be aligned.
One thing’s for sure: the cost of the alignment at ModernTire of West Hartford is cheaper than having to buy a couple of new tires because of neglect.
ModernTire of West Hartford
7 Raymond Road
West Hartford, CT 06107