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shoestring779
Dodge Dakota
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1/04/2005
01:02:23
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 Subject: What should I check before a long trip?
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Hey guys, aside from checking the oil, filling up the tank, and other obvious things like that... do any of you have a good "checklist" to run through before taking a long trip? Post with what works for you.
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Dan M
Dodge Dakota
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1/04/2005
08:41:39
| RE: What should I check before a long trip?
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Most of the things you should check on a regular basis.
I'm not sure if you consider the tires to be obvious. Alot of people don't check tire pressure as often as I do. Also I check the transmission fluid. And when i know i'll be driving in dirty/dusty conditions I'll check air filter too. Also I have a 4x4, good idea to check that out too. I've made a few winter trips through the mountains as well as few camping/fishing trips off road.
- Dan M
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CP
Dodge Dakota
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1/04/2005
09:45:45
| RE: What should I check before a long trip?
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Belts, hoses, coolant, and oil Filter. Differential(s) fluid should be changed if you are carrying a load and it is a year or more old. A tune up will save you gas so also check ignition wires, ignition coil, spark plugs and gap, dist cap and rotor. One thing that always nags me on a long trip is the thermostat. If it is more than a about three years old, I would pull it and install a new one. While I'm at it I inpect the coolant and heater hoses and flush and fill the coolant. Grease all the zerks. And finally, get new refills for the wipers for the weather you will encounter.
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shoestring779
Dodge Dakota
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1/04/2005
11:22:10
| RE: What should I check before a long trip?
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yeah i check tire pressure monthly. great suggestions guys.
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Crow318
Dodge Dakota
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1/04/2005
15:22:37
| RE: What should I check before a long trip?
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I dont know how many times I've gone to help a friend change a tire on the side of a road, grab the spare out and have no tire iron, or its flat (of course I have my tool box and a small compressor with me).I would also make sure you have the basic tools you may need for minor repairs. If you blow a radiator hose, a pair of pliers and a screwdriver would be helpfull. If you are gonna buy a travel tool kit, make sure you invest in a good one. A broken screwdriver is as good as no screwdriver.
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Dan M
Dodge Dakota
JOIN HERE
1/04/2005
15:53:09
| RE: What should I check before a long trip?
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I carry a bare set of tools in the compartment in my extended cab under the seat. I have a set of slipjoint pliers. I have a 40 piece set of allied sockets that I bought at wal-mart for under $10 about 5-6 years ago. I saw something similar recently at another store (can't remember where) for around 9.99). I also carry the set of craftsman "pocket sockets". These are sort of like closed-end wrenches and are adjustable. I also have a screwdriver with multiple bits.
These tools have not only helped me out on the road but others as well. I've also used them for job related things on occasion.
I also keep a set of jumper cables under the front seat, you'd be surprised how many people don't carry a set.
the spare tire thing is good. thanks for reminding me. I need to check mine again.
- Dan M
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Hammerdak
Dodge Dakota
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1/05/2005
19:11:47
| RE: What should I check before a long trip?
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Gas, oil, tire pressure ( the spare too), air filter,washer fluid, all signals and lights ...all obvious ...but a fresh application of RainAway/RainX on the windshield is something I often forget and regret. As well as better rain visibility bug splat comes off alot easier too.
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