2. It happens that poor engine performance is the result of insufficient routine maintenance. This is most likely in the case of a car that is no longer new and has not been regularly and frequently checked. In such situations, it may be necessary to perform additional operations that are beyond the scope of routine maintenance.
3. If engine wear is suspected, a compression test will provide valuable information on the performance of the main internal components (see chapter 2A). Such a check can be taken as a basis for determining the scope of work required. For example, if a compression test indicates significant internal engine wear, a major overhaul needs to be done first. In this case, the normal maintenance described in this paragraph will not give any significant improvement in the dynamic performance of the engine, but will only waste time and money.
4. The following sequence is the operations most often required to improve the dynamic performance of a poorly performing engine:
Basic operations
- A) Clean, inspect and test the battery (see «Weekly checks»).
- b) Check all fluids related to the engine (see «Weekly checks»),
- V) Check the condition and tension of the accessory drive belt (paragraph 10).
- G) Replace spark plugs (paragraph 18).
- d) Check the condition of the air filter element and replace if necessary (paragraph 19).
- e) Replace fuel filter (paragraph 20).
- and) Check the condition of all hoses and check them for leaks (paragraph 4).
5. If the above operations do not give the desired effect, perform the additional operations listed below.
Additional operations
All operations listed above plus the following:
- A) Check the charging system (chapter 5A).
- b) Check the ignition system (chapter 5).
- V) Check the power system (chapter 4A).