Steve's Auto Service Blog

An Origin Story of Steve's Auto

2012-01-06T07:17:00.000-08:00

"There's something to be said about being in the right spot at the right moment," reports Sue Wilson for ReadingEagle.com. "And when it comes to the pair of 1969 Triumph GT6 Mark IIs Steven J. and Elizabeth A. Bodenweiser own, there's no doubt that saying is absolutely true."

Elizabeth and Steven Bodenweiser with their two 1969 Triumph GT6+
sports cars.

Sue Wilson continues the story:

Following a lifelong love of cars, Steve said he acquired these two rare hardtop Triumphs one at a time several years apart - one when he was 18 and the other when he was 42.

"The cars are often referred to as mini Jaguar E-Types and were created from racing Spitfires. They were converted to hardtop for racing, and the small four-cylinder engine was traded out for a 2-liter six cylinder." Steve said that they were produced from 1968 to 1970 and mostly sold in the U.S., but they did not sell well due to the extreme heat inside the car in the summer months.

"I really fell into the Triumph hobby by accident," he said, noting that he owned two other classic cars over the years but nothing as special to him. "At age 18, I did not have a car when I spotted this old yellow sports car in a field behind a house."

The interior of Steve Bodenweiser's 1969 GT6+ includes a restored
wood dashboard. It was the first GT6+ he purchased.

Wilson continues:

Steve said it wasn't for sale, but the house was. So he knocked on the door and asked the owner if he would sell the car. "The car didn't run, but it was an interesting car," he said. "After a short discussion, I bought the car for $300 and had it towed away."

Once Steve got the car running - and stopping - efficiently, he began to think about fixing it up, developing an interest and passion for British cars along the way. "I drove it as my everyday car for about four years before I started to restore it," he said.

"The car was brush-painted yellow over orange over blue over the original British racing green." It took some time, but Steve said he finally got the car back to its original condition.

The engines of both 1969 Triumphs have been rebuilt.

Wilson goes on:

"Years later, when Betty and I married, we would go to driving events and car shows with the various car clubs," he said.

Steve said that his wife enjoyed the car and the people they met as much as he did. "So when we saw another '69 GT6 Mark II, Betty knew we had to get it so she could have a car, too," he said. "Betty has won several shows with her car, including the show in Hellertown."

But it took a lot of work to get the second Triumph back up and running, Steve said. "The second Triumph was spotted by Betty at a gas station in Kutztown," he said. "The car was all rusted out, but it did run."

Steve said that they didn't get such a good buy on it, but he and Betty knew these cars were rare and decided they had to buy it - even though it needed total restoration, too. "This car was blue and rusty," he explained. "I had to replace all the body panels with new panels."

Steve said he then waited two years just to get the hood from England as it is "a four-louver bonnet and not manufactured very often." But it has been totally worth it.

The two 1969 Triumph engines have less than 10,000 miles on each
of them.

Wilson concludes:

"Each car has been totally restored," he said, adding that he's restored each of them to its original condition, paint job notwithstanding. "Today almost everyone converts their older car to electronic ignition system, as it is more dependable, but I have left the engine and ignition mechanical just as they were in 1969."

Steve said he believes that each car should be as it was in 1969. "I suppose I'm just a little crazy that way," he said.

But finding one rare classic Triumph in a field all those years ago started Steve and Betty on the path toward loving and enjoying British cars. "As we met the people associated with the cars and car clubs, Betty and I just became more and more involved," he said.

Quite a triumph for all involved.

Story and photos from Sue Wilson of ReadingEagle.com. Read the full original article here.

See even more photos of these same Triumphs plus many more classic cars at our photo gallery.

January Be-Safe-In-Winter Coupon

2012-01-06T06:49:00.000-08:00

Here's a great offer for January. You know you want to stay safe in the wintertime. We can help! Click the image to print or just give us a call at 973-829-1618. Thanks for your business. You are great!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

2011-12-02T09:13:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you and your loved ones from all of us at Steve's Auto Service!

Four Shiny Struts - Our Present to You for December 2011

2011-12-02T09:00:00.001-08:00

We are in the holiday mood, and we hope you are too! And to show you our appreciation for your business, we have a special present for the month of December: $100.00 OFF four struts, offer good for as many cars as you have, no limit! Click on the image and print out the coupon or just give us a call to schedule your appointment: 973-829-1618.

December Offer. CLICK ON IMAGE for printable coupon.

Steve's Auto Service Expansion: Now Offering Classic British Car Repair and Restoration in Kutztown PA

2011-11-04T08:13:00.000-07:00

We're expanding! Spread the word that Steve's Auto Service will now offer classic British car repair and restoration in Kutztown, PA (the greater Allentown and northeastern Pennsylvania area). Call 610-207-7651 to schedule your appointment at our Kutztown service location.

Open Garage Day on Saturday November 12

2011-11-04T08:07:00.000-07:00

Saturday, November 12th, 8:00 am until Noon is Open Garage Day at Steve's Auto Service. You are invited to bring your classic British car and put it up on the lift and check it out! (free) We will have many LBC enthusiasts here to share ideas and stories. I look forward to seeing you!

Steve's Auto Service - Open Garage Day

That's No Turkey, That's My 70's Car

2011-11-04T07:15:00.000-07:00

It's that time of year again, when one's thoughts naturally turn to cranberry sauce, stuffing and pumpkin pie. November brings with it that most food-focused of all US holidays, Thanksgiving. And who can forget those turkeys of days gone by. But no, I'm not talking about birds. I'm talking automotive turkeys, especially those from that coming-of-age decade for people of a certain age (cough), the 1970s.

But really, these aren't turkey's at all to the proud young men and women who drove them and cherished them. We miss you, domestic 70's cars of our youth! The following photos show 7 of these glorious North American turkeys, and it is hard not to admire their sleek lines. See if you can name the make, model and year for each, and I'll give you a score at the end.

Got 'em all? OK, let's find out...

Scroll down...

Let the answers begin:

1. 1971 Chevy Vega. Poor build quality, engine problems, prone to rust. Wrong turn for GM.

2. 1971 Ford Pinto. Don't get in a rear end collision. Boom. Flames. A low point for Ford.

3. 1975 AMC Pacer. Rolling fishbowl waiting to shatter, or human solar oven experiment? You decide.

4. 1971 Chrysler Imperial LeBaron Two-Door Hard Top. Long fenders, slab styling. It's love at hideous first sight.

5. 1976 Chevy Chevette. The plain-jane replacement for the Vega, loud, tinny and underpowered.

6. 1970 AMC Gremlin. Snub-tailed, vacuum-operated windshield wipers, hard to handle.

7. 1975 Bricklin SV1, or "Safety Vehicle 1". Heavy, slow and plastic all over. Made in Canada. But hey, Canadians have their own Turkey Day, right? Wait, is that thing sticking it's tongue out at me??

Score:

Give yourself 1 point for each make, 1 point for each model and 1 point for each year. A total of 21 points are possible.

0-5 points: Green Bean with a Lot to Learn.

6-10 points: Stuffing and Gravy Brains.

11-15 points: Good Ol' Sweet Potato Head.

16-20 points: Bright Cranberry Cranium.

21 points: The Freaky Turkey of All Knowing.

Call us today at Steve's Auto Service, 973-829-1618!

Songs for the Road

2011-10-11T15:42:00.000-07:00

Were you "Born To Be Wild"? Are you the "King of the Road"? Have you been "Takin' It To the Streets"? Is your life "The Long and Winding Road"? Think you know your road music trivia? Let's test your knowledge!

There have been thousands of songs about the road. You can probably name 100 songs about this subject right off the top of your head. Well, we've narrowed things down to 9 of our favorites. Each song has instantly memorable or wonderfully wise lyrics.

The photo below shows nine songwriters associated with the nine road songs we have selected. You probably recognize most of them, but just in case you were born too late (Hi, Kids!) or too early (Hi, Dad!) they are (top, then middle, then bottom rows, left to right): Johnny Cash, Bruce Springsteen, George Harrison; John Denver, J.R.R. Tolkien, Jackson Browne; John Fogerty, Lennon & McCartney and Bob Dylan.

You are probably wondering what in the world J.R.R. Tolkien, WW1 veteran, Oxford linguist and Lord of the Rings author is doing hanging around with this collection of folk icons, country legends and rock mop-tops? The good professor never played guitar as far as we know, and he never joined a rock band, surely. Nevertheless, he wrote many poems for his books, and other people have set those poems to music, so there you go!

Now here is the quiz. This should be easy and fun. Each of these men (or duos, in the case of Lennon/McCartney) wrote or popularized a memorable song about the road. I'll give you a short sample of words from each song. All you have to do is match up each lyric with one of the nine photos above. At the end (do not peak) I'll give the answers, plus a link to a music video of each song! You probably want to go to a very quiet room where you can hum or sing along with these lyrics until the song and singer pops into your mind. Here we go...

1.
"I hear her voice, in the morning hour she calls me,
The radio reminds me of my home far away,
And drivin' down the road I get the feeling
That I should have been home yesterday, yesterday."

Who wrote these words?

2.
"In the day we sweat it out on the streets
   of a runaway American dream.
At night we ride through the mansions of glory
   in suicide machines.
Sprung from cages out on highway 9,
Chrome wheeled, fuel injected,
   and steppin' out over the line."

Who wrote these words?

3.
"The Road goes ever on and on
Down from the door where it began.
Now far ahead the Road has gone,
And I must follow, if I can."

Who wrote these words?

4.
"Well, I'm a-running down the road tryin' to loosen my load,
I've got seven women on my mind.
Four that wanna own me, two that wanna stone me,
One says she's a friend of mind."

Who wrote these words?


5.
"If you don't know where you're going,
any road will take you there."

Who wrote these words?

6.
"I've been to Louisville, Nashville, Knoxville, Ombabika,
Schefferville, Jacksonville, Waterville, Costa Rica
Pittsfield, Springfield, Bakersfield, Shreveport,
Hackensack, Cadillac, Fond Du Lac, Davenport,
Idaho, Jellico, Argentina, Diamontina,
Pasadena, Catalina, see what I mean-a?"

Who sang these words?

7.
"It ain't no use in turning on your light, Babe,
That light I never knowed.
And it ain't no use in turning on your light, Babe,
I'm on the dark side of the road."

Who wrote these words?

8.
"Bring a song and a smile for the banjo,
better get while the gettin's good,
Hitch a ride to the end of the highway
where the neons turn to wood."

Who wrote these words?

9.
"You and I have memories
Longer than the road that stretches out ahead."

Who wrote these words?


Got 'em all? OK, let's find out...

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Let the answers begin:

1. "Take Me Home, Country Roads" by John Denver (and Taffy Nivert, and Bill Danoff).

From the 1971 album Poems, Prayers and Promises.

2. "Born to Run" by Bruce Springsteen.

The title track from the 1975 album Born to Run.

The video here features the late great Clarence Clemons, plus Billy Joel gets in on the fun, singing a verse in his best imitation of The Boss.

3. "The Road Goes Ever On and On" a.k.a. "Old Walking Song" by J.R.R. Tolkien.

Recited in several variations in The Hobbit and Lord of the Rings by Bilbo and Frodo Baggins. The video below is a lovely fan melody for the words.

4. "Take it Easy" by Jackson Browne (and Glenn Frey).

Famously recorded by the Eagles, but some might prefer Jackson's version from the 1973 album For Everyman. The video below is a rootsy acoustic version with Browne accompanied by David Lindley on violin.

5. "Any Road" by George Harrison.

From his 2002 posthumous album Brainwashed. This is a lesser-known song, but it's a top-tapping treat and a happy way to remember George.

6. "I've Been Everywhere" sung by Johnny Cash.

Adapted for North American place-names and popularized in 1962 by Hank Snow from a 1959 song about Australian towns by Geoff Mack. You've got to like a song with "Hackensack" in it.

Cash released the song in 1996 on Unchained.

7. "Don't Think Twice, It's Alright" by Bob Dylan.

From the 1963 album The Freewheelin' Bob Dylan.

8. "Up Around the Bend" by John Fogerty of Credence Clearwater Revival.

From the 1970 CCR album Cosmo's Factory.

9. "Two of Us" by John Lennon and Paul McCartney.

From the final Beatles album to be released, 1970's Let It Be.

Scoring:

0-2: On the dark side of the road.
3-5: Sunday driving, not arriving.
6-7: Almost heaven, West Virginia.
8-9: You've been everywhere, man, including Hackensack.

Call us today at Steve's Auto Service, 973-829-1618 and we'll help get your car "further on up the road"!

Sci-Fi Car and Driver

2011-09-23T09:15:00.000-07:00

Here is a Science Fiction Movie Car Quiz for you. In the imaginary world of Science Fiction and Fantasy there have been many preposterous modes of transportation. And of course every sci fi car needs a driver, right? The grainy photo below shows six mystery stars associated with six very memorable cars. I'll give you a better look at them when we match them with their vehicles.

And here are the six iconic vehicles associated with each of our heroes, in no particular order. Your mission, should you chose to accept it, is to match each car, #1-6 below to a face, A-F above. Pat yourself on the back if you know character and actor name and movie year and name, but there are no extra points for that! At the end I'll match up faces and cars. This should be easy, right? But wait, there's more. Each car comes with a bonus question. OK, here we go.

1. This whimsical bubble of a car hovers or floats along, has a well-lit interior but no headlights, a slot for a window and a blind spot a mile wide. This could only be called progress in a topsy-turvy world where ret meat and refined sugar are discovered to be health foods. Who drove it?

2. The secret sauce in this specially equipped DeLorean is a Y-shaped device "that makes time-travel possible". In addition to speeding back and forth on land and forwards and backwards through time, this bird can fly, and without wings too! Who drove it?

3. It takes a special sort of man to conceive this amazing vehicle. It sports fan-like wings that unfold on left, right, fore and aft, like a badly engineered bird. It's body is part metallic airship, part wooden sailing vessel, which is appropriate for a car/plane/boat. Who drove it?

4. This military vehicle and has been described as a cross between a Lamborghini and a tank. It has no front axle and features weaponry and the ability to boost into a rampless jump. Six of these vehicles were built for filming including two full size driving versions. This car has a nickname, but it might not be the one you think. What was the name of the fictional hero who modified this car?

5. Unlike the impractical bubble car, #2 above, this sleek vision of the future is the result of a focused effort by a Toyota/Lexus design studio in Southern California. The fictional version of the car includes a "heads up" display with night vision and organic recognition, laser guided cruise control and an "auto valet" system which drops the owner off and then parks and recharges its batteries using retractable solar panels. Who drove it?

6. Who says a car has to have wheels? Hovering aloft on a cushion of antigravity, this jetcar has three thrusters for maneuverability and a curved windscreen that could stand to be a few inches higher, judging by the heads poking up above it. Awesomely cool, ridiculous and beloved all at the same time. Who drove it?

Got 'em all? OK, let's find out...

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Let the answers begin:

Car #1 goes with Mystery Star E: Woody Allen protrays Miles Monroe, owner of a Greenwich Village health food store, who is catapulted 200 years into the future by being cryonically frozen without his consent in the 1973 movie "Sleeper". Bonus question: Douglas Rains portrays the voice of the Evil Computer in this movie. Why was this typecasting?

Car #2 goes with Mystery Star C: Christopher Lloyd is Doctor Emmett Lathrop "Doc" Brown, Ph.D., inventor of a time traveling Delorean in 1985's "Back to the Future". Bonus question: What is the name of the Y-shaped device located in the dashboard on the passenger side that "makes time travel possible"?

Car #3 goes with Mystery Star D: Dick Van Dyke is Professor Caractacus Potts, inventor of the car in the title of 1968 musical "Chitty Chitty Bang Bang". This movie shares two things in common with James Bond: The movie is loosely based on a book by Bond author Ian Fleming and the movie was produced by the Bond series co-producer Albert R. Broccoli. Bonus question: What two colors alternate on the striped fan-shaped wings?

Car #4 goes with Mystery Star B: Christian Bale is Bruce Wayne, a.k.a. Batman and this vehicle first appears in 2005's "Batman Begins". But throughout two movies in which it appears this contraption is never refered to as the Batmobile. Bonus question: What is this behemoth's nickname?

Car #5 goes with Mystery Star F: Tom Cruise portrays PreCrime captain John Anderton in 2002's "Minority Report". Captain Anderton is going to need a fast car to escape from this scary world where Free Will is threatened by "precogs" who have seen the future and decided you really shouldn't do that. This Lexus should fit the bill. Bonus question: In the photo, is the front end of the car on the left or the right?

Car #6 goes with Mystery Star A: Mark Hamill is imbued with The Force when he portrays Luke Skywalker in 1977's "Star Wars", a.k.a. "Episode IV: A New Hope". One of the big challenges in the pre-CGI days of movie making was a special effect such as making this "Landspeeder" hover. For long shots as in the photo, George Lucas and the production team used a combination of three old-school techniques. Lucas was never happy with the illusion and replaced it with digital computer imagery in later releases. Bonus question: What were the three old-fashioned visual tricks used to create the original hovering illusion?

Bonus Answers:
1. In "Sleeper", Douglas Rains's role was typecasting because he was also the voice of HAL in the 1968 film, "2001: A Space Odyssey".
2. In "Back to the Future", the "Flux Capacitor" is "what makes time travel possible".
3. Chitty Chitty Bang Bang had yellow and red striped wings.
4. In "Batman Begins" and "The Dark Knight" there is no mention of the Batmobile. Instead, the tank-like super car is called "The Tumbler".
5. In "Minority Report", the front of the Lexus looks like the back, and appears on the right of the photo.
6. The three tricks George Lucas used in "Star Wars" to make the Landspeeder appear to hover were 1) a mirrored skirt that reflected the sand beneath it, 2) globs of gelatin smeared in just the right place on the camera lens, and 3) in post-roduction, artists painted a dark smudge frame by frame to create the shadow.

Scoring:
Give yourself 1 point for each correct match of mystery star (A-F) to car (1-6) and 1 point for each correct bonus answer.
0-4 points: Cave Dweller in a Galaxy Far Far Away.
5-8 points: Member of Society.
9-11 points: Master of Trivia.
12 points: Freaky Genius.

Call us today at Steve's Auto Service, 973-829-1618 and we'll take care of your car and all its gadgets!

Bond, Which Bond?

2011-08-03T14:07:00.000-07:00

Imagine my surprise when I discovered a secret compartment in the door panel of this vintage auto (photo at right) owned by a certain mysterious customer of mine who I know only as Mr. Bond.

Ha ha, just kidding. That is totally not true. Just playing a PhotoShop trick on you. But what is true is I've got an awesome test of your James Bond knowledge. Did you know that there have been six actors to play James Bond in the movies? And of course, each Bond had his signature car, complete with hidden gadgetry, thanks to that ingenious master of gadgets, Q.

To get started with our quiz, let's introduce our six stars.

Beginning with "Dr. No" in 1962 and continuing through 22 movies to 2008's "Quantum of Solace", the six actors who have portrayed James Bond, in chronological order, are: (top row, above) Sean Connery, George Lazenby, Roger Moore, and (bottom row, above) Timothy Dalton, Pierce Brosnan and Daniel Craig.

Now that we have introduced the 007s, lets look at six classic cars associated with each of the Bond stars. I'll give you a car name plus its gadgets and you name the actor that belongs with it. Pretty simple, huh? OK, here goes. Enjoy the cars and the over-the-top gadgets, and at the end I'll match up each car with the actor's face. But don't scroll ahead yet, and don't cheat. Come on! You know this.

1. The Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante started life as a convertible, but Q winterized it with a hardtop and cold weather add-ons such as ice-traction spikes, outrigger skis, bulletproof windows, forward firing missiles, side-firing laser, rocket booster, and if that's not enough, this car can self-destruct! Which Bond drove this car?

2. The BMW Z8 has its engine balancing behind the front axle for practically perfect weight distribution and sports titanium plating, surface-to-air missiles, remote control (via keychain), infra-red tracking and a finely tuned capacity for eavesdropping. This is a spy's car, after all. Can you picture a face to go with this car?

3. The Aston Martin DBS V12 has all the Emergency Room amenities, including an emergency medical kit with a variety of anti-toxins and a defibrillator plus a satellite linkup to call in additional emergency personnel. Which Bond needed to play doctor?

4. The Aston Martin DB 5 is every secret agent's dream car. The seats eject, the license plates rotate and the windows repel bullets. Add to these nifty features front-firing machine guns, rear bulletproof shield, rear-firing water jets, oil slick, smoke screen, homing-beacon tracker and tire-piercing blades and you've got yourself a double-0's best friend! Which Bond claimed this classic car?

5. The Lotus Esprit is a car that only a fish could love. This car converts into a submarine, which is really enough of a special talent, but nevertheless also features rear-firing windshield grease, surface-to-air missiles, depth charges, inkscreen, forward-firing underwater explosive harpoons and auto-self-destruct. Fish tank sold separately. Who was the deep sea Bond?

6. The Aston Martin DBS surely had some groovy gadgets concealed within its sleek lines, but sadly for Bond historians everywhere, these remain unscripted and unknown. However, here's a big hint for you. Apparently the windows were not bulletproof, and poor Mrs. Bond paid the price for that. Who was the married Bond?

OK, you have been very patient. Now here are the answers...

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Further...

Further...

Almost there...

And now at last, the six Bonds matched to their cars.

1. Timothy Dalton, Bond #4, drove the Aston Martin V8 Vantage Volante in 1987's "The Living Daylights".

2. Pierce Brosnan, the fifth James Bond, was the man in the BMW Z8 in 1999's "The World is Not Enough".

3. Daniel Craig, the sixth and latest Bond, piloted the Aston Martin DBS V12 in 2008's "Quantum of Solace".

4. Sean Connery, the first and original shaken, not stirred Bond, was behind the wheel of the classic Aston Martin DB 5. This vehicle, which established the importance of Bond's car, did not appear until the third Connery Bond film, 1964's "Goldfinger".

5. Roger Moore, Bond #3 and the man in the most films (7*) captained the Lotus Esprit over land and under sea in 1977's "The Spy Who Loved Me".

6. George Lazenby, Bond #2, camped it up in the Aston Martin DBS in his only film, 1969's "On Her Majesty's Secret Service".

*Technically, Sean Connery also appeared in 7 Bond films, but one of those, 1983's "Never Say Never Again", was independently produced thanks to a legal loophole, and is not part of the official 22-film series from EON Productions. Not that there's anything wrong with that. So, OK, we'll give Connery and Moore a tie at 7 films each!

Gadget details thanks to the James Bond Wiki.

Call us today at Steve's Auto Service, 973-829-1618 and we'll take care of your car and all its gadgets!

"Uh-Oh" Moments of Auto Repair, and How to Avoid Them and Save $Money!

2011-07-11T07:01:00.000-07:00

We all make mistakes. I certainly have made plenty.

There was that time in High School when I gave that dirty look to my Algebra teacher. But come on, she was pretty mean. I swear!

But there is another kind of mistake, and it is hard to see it coming because it results from a lack of long term planning. And this is exactly what leads to the "uh-oh" moments of auto repair.

Here are a few tips for avoiding the "uh-ohs":

· Prepare your car. Clean your car regularly. Check all fluids. Upgrade to a high performance oil. Check your tire pressure weekly and keep your tires inflated to the recommended pressure. Listen for unusual noises and consult your owner's manual to see if there is cause for a visit to the shop. These steps will make a world of difference!

· Prepare yourself. Give yourself the gift of time by getting an early start. Don't rush. Follow the 10 second rule and allow plenty of space in front of you on the road. Make sure your windshields are clear. Keep two hands on the wheel.

· Maintain your car. Of course, this is the big one. Maintenance is king when it comes to saving money and extending the life of your vehicle. You can avoid all of the following very costly repairs with proper maintenance: engine replacement ($2,800 to $6,000 or more), automatic transmission rebuild ($2,000 to $5,000) cylinder head or head gasket replacement ($250 to $4,000), or brake problems ($250 to $1,500).

But if you are like me, you are a little bit forgetful. For anyone in this category, I find it helps to think about auto maintenance in terms of the calendar rather than the odometer. For some folks, it is just a little too easy to forget when 5000 miles have elapsed on the odometer since the last oil change. But it is simplicity itself to mark a date on your calendar!

The Calendar Lover's 3-6-9-12 Auto Maintenance Schedule
I have compiled a comprehensive list of checks and procedures, laid out in a neat yearly schedule. If you follow this schedule you will absolutely save money in the long run, and keep your car in great shape for years to come! Click here for your printable Schedule.

Call us today at Steve's Auto Service, 973-829-1618 and we'll get you on the schedule!

Summer Road Trip ✔ Check List

2011-05-31T16:59:00.000-07:00

June is the start of summer and a great time for a road trip! The lure of the road runs deep in most of us, regardless of challenging gas prices or alternative modes of transportation at 20,000 feet in the air. Driving every inch of the way along a rolling black-top through a green landscape with blue mountains on the horizon is a primal and deeply satisfying experience.

Of course before we motor out on the carefree highway, with the summer breeze on our smiling faces, we'll want to do some planning. OK then, get out your favorite list-making tools, whether that's an iPad and your fingertips or a stack of 3 x 5 index cards and a red felt tip pen, and let's make a check list!

✔ Go to Steve's Auto Service and have them check the vehicle top to bottom for wear and tear. That's going to be smart for the exciting trip I have in mind!

✔ Also at Steve's, let's get them to look at the battery cables. They'll need to be securely attached, with the terminals free of corrosion if we are going to take the trip I think we are going to take!

✔ Since we're at Steve's Auto Service anyway let's get the windshield washer fluid topped of with an appropriate cleaning solvent. We don't want to get caught unprepared in a summer shower.

✔ Steve has told me before that I need to check the drive belts every so often. Let's have him look for cracked or frayed ones and have those replaced.

✔ You know what? Who am I kidding. We can get everything we need at Steve's Auto Service. Let's make sure they check the radiator and heater hoses for visible wear, bulges or soft spots, and look for leaks around the clamps and the water pump.

✔ Whoa! I almost forgot about the tires. At Steve's they are great about checking and adjusting the pressures of the tires to my vehicle manufacturer's settings. And we'll want to make sure the spare tire is in good shape as well. And they can check tread and give us advise about an alignment or tire replacement.

✔ Is it hot in here to you? Sheesh, you know what? Steve's Auto Service can keep us cool too! Let's make sure to top off the refrigerant, if that is needed, and make sure our A/C system is good for the road.

✔ OK, that should just about do it. Before we go let's remember to replenish our on-board safety supplies. We'll need a first aid kit in case someone falls on a bush at a scenic overlook. We'll want a flashlight with good batteries for scaring away any bears at night. Jumper cables, check, owner's manual, check, cell phone is charged, check. Alright then, let's pile in the car, and away we go! Suzie! Put your feet back in the car and let's get the A/C going.

The Well Tempered Driver - Five Top Tips

2011-05-03T18:59:00.001-07:00

Dear friend, thank you so very much for your business, from the bottom of my heart. You are great. Did I mention what a great smile you have?

Why am I being so courteous? Because it is time to talk about driving courtesy and good manners on the road and how that can lead to safe travels.

Steve's Auto Service is a family owned and operated business, and as such we are proud to contribute to your family's safety every day. Expert auto repair results in a reliable vehicle that helps to keep you and your loved ones safe.

But of course, there is a whole other dimension to this story. When you are driving, so much of your safety depends on the conscious control you place on your emotions. Driving is a state of mind, and that state varies and fluctuates through the whole range of possible human emotions. The following tips will help you in your quest to be a well-tempered driver.

1. Before you go, chill out, man. Take a few deep breaths. Remind yourself that it is just not worth it to rush. Gather some happy and stimulating listening matter, such as some new music or talk podcasts. Remember that there are amazing people doing amazing things in the world once you turn off the network news. For example, in each episode of the TED Talks podcast passionate successful people take 15 or 20 minutes to describe how they are changing the world. Now that's what I call good news. For music, choose something new by listening to NPR's All Songs Considered, for example. Or bring along some music you liked when you were 13 years old. No matter what that was, it always sounds good and makes you smile. But do play your audio entertainment through your car's stereo speakers. Plugging your ears with earbuds, like driving with one hand and holding a cell phone to your ear, is a little too distracting.

2. Play the Happy Prince William Game. Once you are on the road, imagine that you are playing a massive reality game. Every other person on the road is your fellow contestant. There is only one rule: You are Happy Prince William. And there is only one guideline: Show your good spirits with happy gestures. Did you notice Prince William waving to the crowds the other day as he rode in the carriage from Westminster Abby to Buckingham Palace with his new fairy tale bride? He used a distinctive wave. It was fast and loose at the wrist. Now, your first thought might have been, "Sheesh, that looks kinda dumb!" But you can not deny it was a happy wave. Anyway, you do it your way, but find a way to make pleasant and encouraging gestures to those around you. When you wave someone on, keep all five fingers visible. Fists and middle fingers are definitely not helpful. Be jolly. Be good-hearted. Be a jolly, good-hearted Prince. It all works out in the end.

3. Yield and overcome. The ancient Chinese sage Lao Tzu wrote:

"Yield and overcome, bend and be straight, have little and gain.
Therefore wise men set an example to all.
Not putting on a display, they shine forth.
They do not quarrel, so no one quarrels with them."

Yield to everyone. Yield to pedestrians. Yield to bicycle riders. Yield to the weather. Yield to that red-faced fist-shaking fool who wants to tailgate you, go around you, pass you on the left, pass you on the right, cut in front of you, merge in front of you, crash into a power pole in front of you, whatever. Let him go on and good riddance. He is having a bad day. But you are enjoying your day. In fact, this is one of the best days of your entire life. Drive with the flow of traffic, leave plenty of space in front of you. Look away from your speedometer and lock into the pace of the car in front of you. It is very easy to do this, and with adequate spacing (I don't really have to quantify this, do I? You know how much space!) you will stay nice and safe and probably still make very good time.

4. Watch out for elephants and idiots. Alright, you might not see any lumbering pachyderms in your rearview mirror today. But still, it is important to stay alert, expect the unexpected, watch your surroundings and implement a "trust but verify" policy (also known as a "watch out for the idiots" policy) with your fellow drivers. Even if your chances of spotting a parade of plodding elephants today is slim, you can very reasonably expect to encounter slow drivers. I don't have to tell you that it is safer on the highway if everyone is going a similar speed. But not everyone got the memo. Do take a moment to look in your mirrors before giving up the right of way. And don't just immediately accept another gracious driver's waving you on if you can't see all the possible angles of oncoming or overtaking traffic from your vantage point. If the left turn you want to make against traffic does not seem promising at a particular intersection, it might actually make more sense to continue on to the next intersection and make a U-turn, or even a series of right turns around the block to get where you are going. Remember, you are not in a hurry, right? You are chilled out and alert, listening to soothing music, tossing happy waves and yielding to everyone, right? I knew you were. Just checking. Another easy mistake to avoid is to quickly break a stalemate of gracious wavers at a four way stop. "I'm waving you on. Why don't you go first?" "No, no, why don't you go?" "No, no, no, I insist that you go and I'm giving you my most winning smile to prove it!" Take your time, let the other guy finally become convinced that you are waiting for him to go. After all, you left home early this morning and you're running ahead of schedule, right? I knew it.

5. Dim your lights, stay awake with a song. Practice the golden rule of night-time driving: Treat the other driver's bleary eyes like you would want your own bleary eyes to be treated. You don't want those high beams in your eyes, do you? Of course not. Neither do I. But don't lose your temper. Take it easy, take it easy. Don't let the sound of your own wheels drive you crazy. Wait a minute, that's a song! Speaking of songs, singing is a great cure for sleepiness. Try it! Remember, being nice makes you feel better. I am almost home now. Here comes my street. Someone's right behind me. Is that you? I'll give you plenty of notice. Let me just tap my right blinker. OK now I'm blinking again because, yes, that's my driveway, right at the end of that stone wall, and I'm about to turn in. Slower, slower, turning, turning, pull up and stop. I give you a jolly Prince William wave as you go past. Ah, home at last. Now that wasn't so bad, was it?

Cars in Bloom, a Top Ten To-do List

2011-03-31T17:46:00.001-07:00

I guess I really shouldn't have left my car doors open during that last snowstorm, huh? Oh wait, April Fool's! Just kidding. But seriously, signs of Spring are all around, and to celebrate the warmer weather on the way, we have a simple list of 10 activities for you, your garden, your flowers, your potted plants and your car. See how many you can check off your to-do list!

1. Watch the grass grow.

2. Supersize your garden ornaments.

3. Give your tree a room with a view.

4. Power your Flower Power.

5. Exceed your growth potential.

6. Place a plurality of potted plants.

7. Decorate for the Parade of Roses.

8. Climb a jungle gym and plant a roof garden.

9. Express yourself.

10. Bring the Great Outdoors in.

Open Garage Day

2011-03-01T16:26:00.000-08:00

Saturday, April 9th to be a Special Day at Steve's

Every Spring and Fall at Steve's Auto Service we throw open the doors for our Open Garage Day. Mark your calendar for Saturday, April 9th for this season's Open Garage Day at Steve's.

This is a time for owners of classic British cars to come to our shop, use the lifts and do some basic maintenance. Everyone always has a good time. The car owners are happy to talk to the public about their cars and give advice if you are interested in buying a classic for yourself.

Everyone is invited to participate in this fun day. Bring your British car or to just come see the classic cars we will have on the lot.

Potholes, Potholes, Potholes

2011-02-07T18:31:00.001-08:00

This winter has really brought out the potholes. I have never seen so many. They not only jar your teeth when you go over them but they bang up the car you love and depend on. This month we will tell you how to take care of your car after the potholes have done their damage.

Tire balance
These potholes will beat on your tires and wheels. This will send your tires out of balance. Often the wheel weights that are on the wheels will fall off causing your tires to go out of balance. If your luck is not holding out you could bend the wheel (rim) and this could require a new rim or a reconditioning of your original rim. When a tire is out of balance you will feel a shimmy, usually at high speeds.

Front end alignment

After a winter like this one, there is almost no way that your front end could still be in perfect alignment. It's a good idea to have your alignment checked. Any of the following symptoms can indicate that your car is severely out of alignment:
· When you let go of the steering wheel on a flat road the car will pull to one side.
· On a straight road the steering wheel is not centered but cocked to one side.
· Your tires have worn out prematurely and unevenly.
This last symptom is often the first indication you have that your car is out of alignment.

Front end components
In these winter months you also want to keep in mind your vehicle's front end parts. I'm sure you have heard words like tie rods or steering rack or ball joint. These are some of the front end components that take a real beating on potholes or sliding on snow into curbs. With each alignment we check front end parts free of charge. We want to be certain your car is safe.

Struts and Shocks
Most cars today have front struts. These are shock absorbers which are also part of the front end steering components. Many cars also have rear struts. If not, there will be conventional shock absorbers in the rear. Either way, these are the first components to take the hit from the potholes. We often see cars where the struts are not working! All of the shock-absorbing ability is gone from the strut. This not only gives you a bouncy ride, but this affects the ability of the car to keep the tires on the road. Underperforming or malfunctioning struts can cause:
· Very poor braking.
· Premature tire wear.
· Poor steering ability.
All of these conditions are dangerous. Please drive carefully and be safe! A car can be fixed but you cannot!

Exercise Your Body, Your Mind and Your Car

2010-12-31T18:39:00.000-08:00

The New Year has come. It is time for resolutions. As you can see, I've gotten a head start on my New Year's resolutions by joining a gym. Here I am (photo at right), sweating it out with some powerful leg lifts to benefit my body, and at the same time giving my car a good workout. Ha, Ha, just kidding! But of course, humor is a form of mental exercise! And there we go, we have just covered the three essentials of life: exercise for your body, your mind and your car!

Let me give you some quick tips on bringing these three essentials into your life...

Exercise Your Body

Here are three fun ways from About.com to get your body moving and work lots of muscles. They don't require any fancy equipment, and you might not remember them from high school gym class! They look fun, don't they? Come on, you know you want to try!

1. Lunges. Stand with one leg forward, bend your knees and lower to the lunge position. Hold it, hold it. OK, switch sides. Repeat.

Fun!

2. Squats. Stand with feet apart, slowly bend the knees and lower to a squat. Slowly return to standing. Repeat.

Whoa, head rush! Super!

3. The Plank. Lie face down. All exercise should start like this. How relaxing! Raise up on your toes and hands plus elbows into the plank position. Hold it, hold it. Return to floor. Repeat.

Nap time!

For more information check out About.com.

Exercise Your Mind

Here are three great books to get your mental gymnastics going and get in touch with your inner Car-Guy.

1. Bond Cars and Vehicles, by DK Publishing Amazon says this book "features James Bond cars such as the world-famous Aston Martin DB5, many of the other boats and aircraft he has piloted, as well as some of his most hair-raising chases and escapades." Find out more at Amazon.

2. The Corvette in the Barn: More Great Stories of Automotive Archaeology, by Tom Cotter Amazon raves: "It's every car-guy's fantasy--to casually peer into a long-forgotten garage or barn or warehouse and find the car he has searched for his whole life. Corvette in the Barn is a collection of true, often amazing, stories." Learn more.

3. McQueen's Machines: The Cars and Bikes of a Hollywood Icon, by Matt Stone About the subject of this book, Amazon says "he made movies best remembered for their wild car chases, mad motorcycle dashes, and hair-raising races, but no one forgets the man at the wheel--Steve McQueen, the King of Cool. No other Hollywood star has been so closely linked with cars and bikes." Check it out.

Exercise Your Car

Now is a great time to make sure that your car is in excellent health. Steve's Auto Service is a car's best gym, and we are expertly trained to pump up your car's performance. I know you would rather just jump in your car, turn the key and go. Why not? That is what you want from your car, isn’t it? But much like our bodies, this carefree approach will catch up to your car after time.

We at Steve’s Auto Service just want to remind you that now is the time to bring your car in to make sure it is fit and healthy, too. After all the last thing you want is your car having a coronary on the highway leaving you stranded and freezing with a big towing and repair bill.

We will save you money here at Steve's Auto Service by checking to be certain that your brakes, your shocks, and your engine and transmission are serviced properly before it is too late. Has your “Engine light” been on? This also leads to problems that will eventually take the life of your cars vital organs. So now is the time to bring your car to Steve’s Auto Service, a car's best gym, to be certain that you are keeping your car healthy and fit for the road.

Call now: 973-829-1618 and our knowledgeable service writer Ray will be happy to speak with you.

Visit our website to learn more about the many ways we can assist you.

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays

2010-12-01T07:58:00.001-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to you! As you can see, we've decorated for the holidays. (No, just kidding!) But seriously, all of us at Steve's Auto Service wish our many loyal customers a merry holiday season and a happy new year. -Steve B.

Check Engine Light: What Does It Mean?

2010-11-30T18:57:00.000-08:00

Uh oh. The Check Engine light just came on. What does that mean? Do I stop driving? Do I go directly to the shop? Or can I ignore it?

First let's be sure we are looking at the Check Engine light. It is yellow/orange. It looks like an engine or says: "CHECK ENGINE" or "SERVICE ENGINE SOON." Now that we are sure we have the correct light we can go further. When you turn the key in the ignition to start your car, the Check Engine light will come on for 3 seconds, then go out. This is a test of the light bulb, to be sure it is working.

If you are driving and the Check Engine light comes on this can mean many different things because your car's computer is constantly testing all its systems from the ABS brakes to the seatbelts and air bags to the engine and transmission. Also, all the pollution systems are monitored. There are hundreds, sometimes thousands of system pieces being monitored.

Click here to learn about On Board Diagnostic codes so you have an idea of what the Check Engine light is telling you.

In fact these tests are called monitors and when the tests are run for each system the monitor is called READY. These are your readiness monitors. This is what they look for at inspection to be sure all the monitors are READY (passed).

Now the question is, do I need to stop when the light comes on?
No, most the time if the only light to come on is the Check Engine light you do not need to stop. If you have other lights on like the Oil light or an Alternator light you should get it looked at immediately.
The Check Engine light is a warning that the car is not running properly. It is to forewarn you before the car stops.

Do I need to get to a shop to check it out? Yes, many times the engine is starting to loose a critical signal from a sensor that tells the injectors or the spark plugs when to fire. If that signal deteriorates the car will die or not restart. This is also true on temperature sensors that regulate fuel. There are also sensors that measure the air intake of the engine that can short out and leave you stranded.

Finally, if the check engine light starts to flash, this is a serious condition that may destroy your catalytic converter. Believe me, this is a part that you do not want to pay to replace. They are very costly, starting at about $1000.00 and going up from there depending on your car. So if you see the check engine light flashing, get your car serviced as soon as you can.

7 Tips to Winterize your Car

2010-10-31T12:51:00.000-07:00

The sunny days of summer are over and I am making a list of things to do to winterize my home. And it's also time for all of us to think about preparing our vehicles for the winter months.

Winter is coming. It is time to go over your car. Here is a list to help you get things checked out.

1. Check your antifreeze, not only to be sure the temperature is good but for the acidity of the coolant. Acid will cause premature failure in the cooling system to components like the radiator or the water pump.

2. Change your oil. Manufacturers are getting very specific about the type and weight oil your car needs. A good repair shop knows which is the proper oil for your car. Many “quickie oil” places use the same oil for all cars to save on their expenses.

3. Tire pressure is always a critical factor. New cars have tire pressure monitors but most cars do not. It is important that you read the inflation specifications that are listed on the driver’s doorjamb and inflate your tires to those specs. Many times the specs are different for the front and back tires.

4. Wipers are critical in the winter with snow and ice on the roads and sand and mud being thrown up at your windshield. You must have good wipers and it is a good idea to keep an extra pair in the car, even if you are unsure or cannot install them yourself. When you have an extra pair of wipers that will fit your car then you can find someone to install them for you. However if you need a new wiper immediately you may not be able to find one.

5. Washer fluid goes hand and hand with the wipers. In winter when the windshield is always getting road dirt and sand on it, you need to keep the washer fluid full. Here at Steve’s Auto Service we always fill your washer fluid with every oil change, for free!

6. Tune up: When was the last time you had your car tuned up? Many new cars have maintenance schedules that space out services over ridiculously long intervals. This can result in your fuel filter, air filter, and spark plugs not being replaced at the proper time. However if you take care if these maintenance items before it is too late you will avoid problems, such as spark plugs that will not come out of the engine. This will add tremendous expense to a simple job. Also you will improve your gas mileage and your car will not only run better but will last longer too.

7. Tires: Snow tires are the best but most people now use all season tires. Many cars are all-wheel drive. All-wheel drive is good for traction but not for stopping. So you must be certain that your tires have good tread on them, whether they are snow tires or all season tires. It is said that a minimum tread depth is to the top of George’s heads on a quarter. But this is not really enough to start a season of snow and ice. I would say at least 3/8 of an inch across the entire tread of the tire is safe.

Everyone please have a happy and safe Thanksgiving. Hopefully we will see you for your winter car maintenance. Steve’s Auto Service: Helping you to avoid breakdowns on the way to grandma’s house on Thanksgiving day!

Tires Q & A, or: Are you More Confused than an Alpaca?

2010-09-27T19:01:00.001-07:00

Are you confused about tires? Let me put this question another way. When you look at the photo on the right, do you believe yourself to be:
A) More confused about tires than an Alpaca...or
B) Just as confused about tires as an Alpaca...or
C) Less confused about life in general than an Alpaca, but I'm still not so sure about tires?!?!

If you answered A), B) or C) above, have no fear. Over the years I have had lots of opportunity to learn first-hand all about tires. Let me share a little bit of my experience. Here are some questions my customers have asked me, along with my time-tested answers.

Q: What the heck kind of tires do I have on my car?
A: Tires come in all variety of sizes and types. You can see for yourself the type and size of your tire by reading a special series of numbers and letters found on the side of the tire. The number series might look something the one in the accompanying photo, which reads: “195/60R15”. Read on to learn more about what this strange code tells you about your tires.

Q: Is there some magical way to learn my tire's dimensions?
A: Yes, but no need for magic. Take a look at the first three digits in our number series above: "195". This indicates the tire's width from sidewall to sidewall, as measured in millimeters. So in our example the tire width is 195 millimeters. The two-digit number that comes next tells the tire height, but in a tricky way, as a percentage of the tire width. A tire labeled "195/60" means that the tire height is 60% of the tire width of 195 millimeters. The math looks like this: 195 x .60 = 117. The tire’s height is 117 millimeters. Now that is some kind of fun with math!

Q: Do I have radial tires or what?
A: Yes you probably do, since radial construction is the most common type of construction for a tire these days. But let's find out for sure. In our number series, tire construction is represented by a letter. If it says “R” that means radial. Older tires have abbreviations such as “B” for bias belted and “D” for diagonal bias.

Q: Is there a top secret decoder ring I can buy to tell me my wheel size?
A: Well, I'm not so sure about a top secret decoder ring, but you don't need that to learn your wheel size. Just read the final number in our number series, because that will tell you the wheel size for which the tire is designed. This measurement is given in inches and represents the wheel rim diameter. A “15” means the tire is meant for a 15-inch wheel. In case anyone asks you, you can tell them that most wheel rims measure between 13 and 18 inches in diameter.

Q: When should I replace my tires?
A: Let's check the manufacturer’s production code, another number plainly displayed on your tire, to learn its age. This is critical information in deciding when to replace your tires because older tires, even those with good tread, can still be dangerous and cause a blowout. Tires over seven years old should probably be replaced. The last 4 digits on the production code tell us the manufacture date. The first 2 of these 4 digits tell the "production week" or week of the year. Since there are 52 weeks in a year, this part of the number will be between 1 and 52.. The last 2 digits represent the year. So for example, a production code ending in “5107” means “produced in the 51st week (next to last week of December) of 2007.

Q: What in the world is a Tire Pressure Monitoring System and why should I care?
A: A tire pressure monitoring system (TPMS) is an electronic system for monitoring the air pressure in a vehicle tire and automatically transmitting a warning to the driver in the event of an under or over inflated tire. These systems have been legislated to be installed on all 2007 and newer passenger vehicles. You should care about maintaining proper tire pressure because the most common cause of tire failure and blowouts is low tire pressure. This is especially important on a trailer because if the air in a trailer tire goes bad you never can "feel" it if and when a trailer tire goes flat. A flat trailer tire often does flip the trailer send the car into a spin. We would always encourage you to think "safety first".

At Steve's Auto Service we can help with all your TPMS needs, including sales of aftermarket systems. And be sure to check out this month's special, a $75.00 value! We'll perform a free tire rotation, tire inspection, and a test of TPMS operation. Give us a call at 973-829-1618 and ask for the October Tire Service Special.

A Five Star Rating for Steve's Auto Service

2010-09-27T18:36:00.000-07:00

Steve’s Auto Service has been working with Tire Rack for ten years. Tire Rack's speed of delivery plus the fast installation service given by our staff at Steve’s Auto Service make it a snap to get new tires on your car, properly mounted and balanced. We have a five star rating at TireRack.com, which is the best rating possible. We are one of only a few in the nation with this top rating. In partnership with Tire Rack we have a proven and successful record of offering fast, excellent service to all our customers. We usually will install your tires within a few hours of drop off.

Let me explain how this works. Simply go to TireRack.com and choose your tires. The website does a great job of assisting you to make the very best choice in tires based on your car model, driving habits and budget.

After you have picked out your new tires, go to the tool bar at the top of the page and click on “Installation” and enter the Morristown zip code, 07960 into the "Find An Installer" box.

Next, choose Steve’s Auto Service for the best and fastest installation of your tires. The tires will be shipped directly to us. We will call you when the tires come in, as tire rack will forward your phone number to us.

With just a few easy clicks and within a few short days you will be driving on your new tires. If you require any assistance or advice with your tire selection you may call us at any time at 973-829-1618. Our mission is to be sure you are happy with your new tires and their proper installation.

If you have had a positive experience working with Tire Rack and Steve's Auto Service, please write a review at TireRack.com. You are the greatest!

Top 5 things to look for when you buy a vintage Triumph TR6

2010-08-30T14:40:00.000-07:00

So just the other weekend my wife Betty and I were on our way back from Erie PA when we stopped in to Gio's BBQ for a couple of their mile-high double cheeseburgers. And let me tell you it was every bit as delicious and tasty as it looks in the photo you see here. But that was nothing compared to the tasty tips I've got for you about purchasing a classic car. Read on...

A good client of ours, Jim, was looking for a classic Triumph. He came to us to ask for advice. I asked Jim what type of car he was looking for. He replied that he liked the Triumph TR6, but wondered if he could afford one. I explained to Jim that TR6’s range in price depending on condition, but can be surprisingly affordable. They can cost as little as $6,000.00 or $7,000.00 for a "driver" (a car that may not look so nice but will be fun to drive and get you there and back) and as much as $15,000.00 for a top show car.

Jim was encouraged by my estimate of the price range, so next we went over some of the things to look for when buying a TR6. I told him to check for five important points in the car's condition.

1. Look for rust on the rocker panels
Look at the body for rust, but not just from a standing position but get on the ground and look low on the rocker panels (the metal panels under the doors) and see if there is rust.
2. Make sure the drain holes are not plugged
Look to see that if any body work was done to these panels, especially that they did not cover up or plug the water drain holes on the bottom of the rocker panels. These are very important for letting the rainwater run out which prevents rust.
3. Listen for a smooth running engine
Start the engine and listen to it run. Is it smooth or does it stumble? A good engine, even a forty-year-old engine, should not have a “miss.”
4. Check the "Temp" gauge during a long test ride
Take the car for a ride, not just around the block but a good ride of 20 minutes or more. Many of these cars run hot, so look at the “Temp” gauge. If it runs hot this is not a big problem but you may need to add an electric fan after you purchase the car.
5. Listen for quiet shifting
While driving listen carefully as you shift. If you hear a banging noise you should suspect that the differential bushings are bad, or worse yet, that the brackets that hold these bushings are broken. If you hear the noise, you'll want to bring the car in so we can put it on the lift to see the condition of the bushings and brackets. We have found that this is an ongoing problem with TR6’s.

The remainder of the inspection should be common sense. Look at the condition of the belts and hoses. Visually look at the body for rust and dents. See that the lights work and the windows go up and down. Check the horn and the wipers. Most of all I told Jim to remember that the person that is selling this car either loves it and must sell it, or once loved this car. It was their baby. So when you negotiate to become the new owner, don't pick the car apart in front of the seller. Understand the motives of the seller, who in almost every case just wants to see his beloved car live on and be driven by a person who will care for her and keep her going.

Jim looked for a while. When he found a car that he liked, he set up an appointment with us to check it out top to bottom. We gave Jim a complete report. He deicided to buy his dream car, his very own Triumph TR6, and he is very happy with his choice today.

A very interesting summer for exotic cars

2010-08-30T14:32:00.000-07:00

At Steve's Auto Service we work on many exotic cars. We often service Fiats, Triumphs, MGs, Austin Healeys, Minis and many other unusual cars. But this summer has been very interesting, with a large surge in our exotic car repair and restoration business. The difficult economy seems to have caused many classic car owners to dig their older cars out of the garage, cars which have been sitting for years.

Just last week we had two Triumph TR3’s, a Fiat Spider, a Bugeye Sprite, a 1967 Mustang an MG Midget and a Triumph TR6. All these cars have sat idle in their garages for years. And now, with some help from us and some love from their owners, each will have a new life. Some of these cars are inexpensive compared to a new car. Some even sell for under $4000. And these classic cars hold their value, so when you buy a classic car you will find that years later you will often sell it for as much or more than you paid for it.

These are fun cars to drive and take more talent to drive then the jelly-bean shaped cars of today. If you are interested in restoring your old car, or you are thinking you might like to buy a fun sports car to drive—a car you can drive out to a pumpkin patch on an Autumn day, or to go apple picking on the weekend with the gang—then we are the people to contact. Our experts can help you to find the right car; one that fits both your needs and your budget. We will tell you what to look for, as well as look out for, when buying a classic car. Then if you like we will look the car over for you before you purchase it.

The photos below show 5 of our recent projects: A Bugeye Sprite, an MG Midget, a Triumph TR3, a classic Ford Mustang and a Fiat Spider. Enjoy!

September Special: This month we are offering $94.00 off a two-hour complete assessment of your car. That's 50% off our regular price. The offer expires September 30th, 2010. Just call 973-829-1618 for an appointment.