Ask a Expert Mechanic

12/15/2025

Invest in quality tools early — cheap ones cost more in the long run.

If you can find them, and are on budget, craftsman basic tools are great. A good wrench and socket is key.

12/11/2025

12/11/2025

Jetski-PWC

Battery = #1 cause of “won’t start” calls.

Install a permanent SAE pigtail and plug it into a Battery Tender the day you trailer it home. A fully charged battery also prevents fried starters and melted fuse boxes,.especially Sea-Doo DESS systems.

12/10/2025

Clean garage, Project #361 this winter. That ol' SnapOn box Has seen better days, bought that thing in 1998. Damn 30 years goes fast. Live everyday like it's your last.

12/10/2025

Impeller replacement is NOT optional on anything with water cooling
Outboard, inboard, jet ski, or even some modern motorcycles (BMW GS water pumps)

12/09/2025

Coolant!

An important fluid for water cooled vehicles. The age old mystery of do i mix 50/50, 60/40 or 100%. Depending what climate, you need at at least 50%, and higher or even 100% if you live in cold climates.

Main requirement is to service it ever 2 years reguardless. Coolant also is a lubricant for your waterpump as well, so the more water you use the less lubrication and damage occurs.

12/09/2025

Spark plugs tell you everything
Keep a “plug chop” log with photos. Lean = white/gray, rich = black/sooty, oil burning = wet black, detonation = pepper specks on insulator.

12/08/2025

Motorcycles!

Did you know, wrapping your exhaust headers with fiberglass tape will reduce leg burns and improve scavenging. Soak in water first for easy application.

12/07/2025

Motorcycles are freedom, but also can be targeted by the subconscious brain of other drivers.

Studies have been done on this subject, they found drivers see you, but their brains do not.

12/07/2025

Few quick tips for the DYi guys/gals.

1. Start all bolts of the part your installing before you tighten even one bolt.

2. Never force parts together, this can damage things.