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The Challenges of Maintaining a Transmission: A DIY Guide to Troubleshooting and Repair

As anyone who's ever owned a car knows, transmissions can be a real challenge to deal with. When it comes to maintaining them, there are several things that can go wrong, from worn-out struts to faulty pumps. In this article, we'll explore some common issues that can arise in transmissions and provide some practical tips on how to diagnose and repair them.

One of the most common problems that car owners face is a transmission that won't move. This can be caused by a variety of factors, including a faulty pump or a buildup of pressure. If you notice that your transmission isn't moving, it's essential to take it in for diagnosis as soon as possible. A professional mechanic may need to split the case to investigate further. However, before taking it to the shop, there are some DIY steps you can take to try and resolve the issue.

For example, if you suspect that your transmission pump is not building up pressure, you can try using a product like Lucas Slip 'N Stop transmission additive. This can help clear out any debris or varnish that may be causing the problem. Simply remove one of the drain plugs on your fluid reservoir, pour in a quart of the additive, and wait for 250-300 miles to see if it makes a difference.

Another common issue that car owners face is worn-out struts. When the shock absorbers in your front struts wear out, they can cause the vehicle to bounce or vibrate excessively. This can make driving uncomfortable and even affect the handling of the vehicle. If you notice that your ride has become bumpy or that it's bouncing around, it may be a sign that your struts are worn out.

To diagnose this issue, try jacking up the vehicle and checking the struts for signs of wear. You can do this by looking inside the strut with a large hydraulic rod to see if there are any leaks or oil residue. If you find that one of your struts is leaking or showing signs of excessive wear, it's likely time to replace both front struts.

A recent development in the automotive world has been the proposal for electric cruise ships. The Norwegian Cruise Line claims that they will be launching an all-electric ship with solar panels and wind power that can propel massive vessels. However, when asked about how this would work, our skepticism grew. With energy demands as high as a million and a half gallons of diesel fuel per trip on the same vessel, it seems unlikely that solar panels and wind turbines could generate enough power to meet these needs.

The idea of using all-electric propulsion systems for large vessels is still largely in the realm of science fiction. While we can imagine a future where electric ships become the norm, there are significant technical hurdles to overcome before this becomes a reality. For now, it's essential to be cautious and not get too caught up in the hype surrounding these proposals.

In the meantime, car owners should focus on maintaining their existing vehicles rather than holding out for a futuristic solution. By following DIY tips and advice from professionals, you can help keep your transmission running smoothly and avoid costly repairs down the line. Remember to ring that bell whenever you miss another one of our repair videos!