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Car and bike questions? We have the answers
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Even after getting the cylinder of my 1983 Bajaj Super re-bored once, mileage is still only 25 kpl. What could the problem be? Also, the acceleration isn't so good.
Raman, via email
There are far too many reasons why a bike loses performance. Generally, a good mechanic should be able to sort out your problems easily. Check out the exhaust system on your scooter - if it is too old and has been cut open many times for removing carbon deposits, fit a new one. Apart from this, get the vehicle tuned by a person who knows what he is doing.
I have a Ford Escort 1.6 (DOHC) Zetec 1999 model, which is in good condition. Is it advisable to keep it for another two years?
Ramesh K, via email
We would be strongly in favour of replacing the Escort with a car that is still in production or at least, has enjoyed a longer innings in India. Such a car will offer you peace of mind when it comes to after sales service and the availability and pricing of spare parts. We feel that you will incur some losses on such an exercise, but sometimes it is better to view things from a long-term perspective.
Power is directly proportional to torque. But sometimes I see some engines developing, say, maximum power at 6500 rpm and maximum torque at 5500 rpm. How does this happen?
Rahul Sharma, via email
Power (bhp) and torque do not peak at the same rpm (revolutions per minute). If you consider torque to be `work' and bhp to be the `rate of work', it is easy to understand that although after the torque curve starts to fall off at a particular rpm, the bhp curve still climbs because rpm increases, till such time as the volumetric efficiency of the engine starts to fall off.
I own a 2000 Zen. There is some chattering noise from the brake callipers. I have had the brake calliper pins greased twice and lately also replaced. Somehow, the noise of metal to metal contact still persists. What can I do now?
A Sathyanarayanan, via email
Ensure that the pads are not worn out. Also check that the anti-chatter shims are in place. Make certain that every related bolt and nut in the entire system is tightened and that the disc does not have an excessive run-out.
I own a 1988 Yamaha RX100. Six months ago it began giving starting problems. If idle for more than six hours, it takes a lot of effort to start. Spark plug gap, float level in the carburettor, idle rpm and air screw have been set accurately to factory specifications. Carburettor jets have been cleaned. Float and float pin, spark plug, fuel filter have also been replaced. Please advice.
Iqbal Razak, via email
We suggest you get your dealer to check out the source of primary voltage. It could be that due to low primary voltage, the high-tension coil gets overloaded and fails.
We offer this suggestion because of our experience with the Yamaha RD350 coils that would behave in the way you mention if the battery was low on charge.
Write in with your queries to wheels@thehindu.co.in
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