Saturday, October 5, 2013
GMC Conversion Van Repair Tips
With proper care, your GMC Conversion van can bring you years of use, although, much like that of any vehicle, common repairs may be required. Knowing what to watch for and how to repair common conversion van problems before they occur can help to save you frustration and a good deal of money based on unnecessary repairs down the road.
Brake Noises
Grinding or squealing noises coming from the brake area on GMC conversion vans when the brakes are applied can be caused by a variety of culprits. One of the most common causes for squealing noises dust that has accumulated in the brake drums. As the brake pads on a GMC conversion van break down over a period of time, dust accumulates on the pads, leading to a loud squealing noise. However, a hard grinding noise usually indicates that the brake pads have become too warn and require replacement. Regardless of the type of noise emitted, brakes should be inspected by a licensed mechanic at the first sign of noise in order to prevent additional damage to the rotor and prevent the need for further repairs.
Power Loss
A frequent cause for the loss of power on a GMC conversion van is a faulty or defective alternator. An alternator that is going bad will usually present a number of symptoms as the alternator begins to fail. These symptoms can include a loss of brightness of the headlights when the headlights are engaged. This loss of light may vary from intermittent dimming to a total loss of power as the alternator continues to fail. Other symptoms of a faulty alternator include the loss of power to the radio or dashboard lights, which can not function without the power the alternator provides. Replacement of the alternator can be a fairly simple process, but should be handled by a GMC certified mechanic in order to avoid violating the terms of the vehicles warranty if the warranty has not expired.
Fuel Tank
Many people assume that there is a problem with the fuel tank if they begin to notice a change in the miles per gallon they receive after filling up. While a leaky fuel tank may be the culprit, a variety of other causes may be to blame and making some changes may help to determine the cause. Try to avoid hard stops when approaching a stop light or stop sign. Coasting a bit before approaching the stoplight can save you fuel. Another fuel saving tip is to remove excess weight from the vehicle, which contributes to excess fuel consumption. Try limiting the use of your vehicles air conditioner, which burns additional fuel. If after trying several of these tips, you do not notice an increase in fuel efficiency take your GMC conversion van in to be checked by a certified mechanic to rule out a leak in the fuel tank. If at any time however, you detect the smell of gas, stop driving your van immediately and have it checked out as the smell of gas can indicate a significant gas leak which can be dangerous.
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