3D Printers Can Make Car Parts

3D printing has come a long way over the years, with many people treating it as a miracle technology that can create anything. That may be an exaggeration of what the technology is capable of, but there is no denying that it can be used for amazing things. 3D printers have been used to create everything from replacement machine parts to custom-made prostheses, and now some companies are using 3D printing to fabricate replacement car parts.

The Benefits of "Printing" Car Parts
There are some obvious benefits to using 3D printing to create replacement car parts, the most obvious of which is that can eliminate the need to hunt down rare automobile parts. Anybody who has ever tried to restore a classic car or even just repair their old vehicle knows how hard it is to find the right parts for a particular job. Some have to search high and low to find what they are looking for, and when they find it they sometimes have to pay an astronomical price due to its rarity. Theoretically, a 3D printer can fabricate these parts easily as long as their specifications are programmed into the printer. It may not be ideal for those who want authentic classic parts, but it could be enough to keep an older vehicle on the road.

3D printing can also allow manufacturers and designers to create prototypes of new engines and other parts. Using a 3D printer to create these prototypes to see how they would function is considerably cheaper and easier than building a new engine from scratch only to find that it needs to be redesigined. The printed prototype doesn't have to be used in a vehicle; the fact that it can be an inexpensive means of testing out a theoretical device is often enough for manufacturers.

The only real disadvantage to using 3D printing for car parts is that the resins that are used in the printing process may not be tough enough for certain applications. 3D printing can yield some durable results, but they may not always be able to hold up to high stress and heat. There may come a time when 3D printing can create something that is better than traditional automobile parts and equipment, but until then, anything that is fabricated should be used wisely and with caution.

Improve Fuel Economy and Extend The Life of Your Car

Do you spend more money on your vehicle than is necessary?

I know that it might be hard to believe, but if you spent a few dollars doing regular preventative maintenance on your vehicle, it would save you in the long run and could improve your fuel economy, as well as assist you in avoiding expensive repairs down the road.

In our world today, car manufacturers are creating more economical, environmentally friendly and technologically advanced vehicles. Vehicles with better features, more fuel efficient and the last longer and longer.  Because of increasingly stringent emissions standards, today’s vehicles are more fuel efficient than ever before. But this is only the case when they are maintained to the manufacturer’s standards.

Here are some maintenance tips to help you save at the pump:


Tires-Inspect, balance, check inflation and rotate tires. Check inflation on the spare and make sure the jack is in its place.


Engine Performance- if your engine isn’t properly maintained it maybe difficult to start in cold weather, if even at all. It may run rough and lose power. Have fuel, ignition and emission control systems checked, necessary components replaced and adjustments made.


Use the right tires – Use the type and size of tire recommended by your manufacturer for optimal performance. The wrong tires can increase your fuel consumption and will likely wear more quickly.

Battery and electrical system-How old is your battery? If it's three or more years old, it should be tested and replaced if necessary.  Have your battery terminals cleaned and tightened, because loose or corroded connections can cause symptoms of a weak or dead battery.

Check engine light – Your dashboard indicators provide you with important information about your vehicle, including its fuel economy. If your check engine light is on, bring your car in to have it checked out by a Certified Service Technician at Metric Wrench.

Replace your air filters – Your car is equipped with a number of air filters to prevent contamination of important vehicle systems. Replacing these air filters as recommended by the manufacturer can save you up to 10% on fuel.

Check your gas cap – A missing or cracked gas cap will allow gasoline vapors to escape from your tank.

Have your car inspected – A regular inspection in the spring and the fall can help you identify other problems that may be affecting your car’s performance, such as misfiring spark plugs, sagging belts, worn brakes or transmission problems.

Prevent Major Damage
Spending a little on maintenance can go a long way toward preventing major damage that can leave you stranded and cost you a lot to repair.

If you have questions or concerns about your vehicle, please call Metric Wrench Billings today and talk to a Certified Service Technician.

Too Flush or Not To Flush

Your auto mechanic recently did some maintenance on your automobile, and suggested that you needed a brake fluid flush. Right now, you're probably feeling a bit confused about having the work done, and wondering how much money it will cost you. You might also be thinking, "Do I really need to have this done?" Well, here is some good advice about why it is important to have the old brake and flushed on your automobile. You can avoid getting taken for a ride, so to speak, and ripped off by your auto mechanic, when you get a second, or third opinion from other auto mechanics. However, if your current auto mechanic suggests that you need these types of repairs, make certain that you get the work done right away.


Flushing The Brake Fluid On Your Automobile 

When the brake fluid in your automobile turns black, you should have the repairs made to keep your brakes functioning properly. Flushing the old brake fluid from your automobile can help remove moisture and debris from your system. Look for a reasonably priced auto mechanic with a good reputation that will completely flush the old brake fluid out of your automobile. Some mechanics perform various brake flushing methods, such as suction or pressure to flush out the old brake fluid on an automobile. However, before you attempt to have any repairs made, always read your owner's manual. Then, determine, which brake flushing method is best for your automobile. Be sure to ask your friends and family about their auto mechanics, and which type of brake fluid flushing method he uses, when they have their brake fluid flushed. 



Drive Slow Save Gas

Gas is going up this summer and not going down. What can you do to save a few bucks this summer? Driving slow or moderate speed enables your vehicle to maintain the effective fuel efficiency of the car, which in turn can help to reduce the excessive use of gas.

The best speed for most cars to get fuel efficiency is between 45 and 65 mph. Research shows that the average speed for effective fuel efficiency is at 55 mph for most cars. When driving at this speed, the car performs at its best mpg hence reducing the amount of fuel consumption. In addition, you can also increase your speed up to 65 mph with the same fuel efficiency. Best fuel efficiency speed for large and heavy trucks is around 45 mph while for sports cars it is 65 mph.

Decelerating and accelerating.
Speeding up and slowing down is what gets most of us. Most people think that the quicker you accelerate or decelerate, the quicker you move or stop can save gas and time. That would be wrong. When you accelerates or decelerates quickly your car engine uses a lot of power/gas. It is recommended that you drive slower which reduces the power output of the engine lowering the amount of gas used.

Lower acceleration and deceleration technique should mostly be used at stop signs or when making a turn. Use less fuel, save money!

Summer Means More Car Washes

Here are some things to consider:

- Use products sold specifically for automobiles. Household cleaners can contain harsh detergents, abrasives and additives that strip the wax from the paint and damage the finish.

- Clean your wheels with a wheel cleaner that removes brake dust, which can blacken your front tires.

- Be sure to follow the directions on the container of your cleaning products because applications can vary.

- Once your vehicle is clean and dry, check the vehicle for foreign particles on the paint, then apply a wax as directed. The wax will protect the finish and make subsequent washing easier.

The Service Schedule is Just a Way For Service People to Make Money-MYTH!

Your vehicle’s service schedule was designed by automotive engineers, not service technicians. Maintaining your car according to your owner’s manual provides you with peace of mind while protecting your investment.

The Service Schedule was created to maintain your vehicle’s high level of dependability and safety, to protect the environment, and to enhance and maintain the value of your automobile.

 A properly maintainedvehicle maintains and enhances vehicle value and saves money in the long term. For example, an un-serviced timing chain can lead to moderate to catastrophic engine damage and a $2000 engine repair bill. Replacing a worn exhaust system bracket can cost considerably less than replacing the entire exhaust system.

Winter Safety Tips

If you are due for a tune-up, have it done before winter hits! Winter magnifies existing problems such as pings, hard starts, sluggish performance or rough idling. A routine tune-up will restore a vehicle back to its normal operating state, and contribute to the overall efficiency of the engine and emissions system. Keep your gas tank at least half full. This tip limits condensation in your tank and reduces gas-line freezing. Adding a little gas-line antifreeze every second fill-up will also help prevent gas-line freezing. Heaters, Defrosters and Wipers- Wiper blades that are cracked or torn, or that chatter, streak and don’t properly clean your windshield should be replaced. Some manufacturers offer special winter blades that have a rubber boot covering the arm assembly to keep snow and ice out. When changing the blades, have the windshield wiper system nozzles cleaned and adjusted if necessary, and check the windshield washer reservoir in case it needs fluid. Cooling System-As strange as it sounds your cooling system is one of the most important things to watch in your vehicle during the winter time. There are two things -- the concentration of coolant, and the amount. In most parts of the US, a 50/50 mix of coolant and water keeps the coolant from freezing, lubricates the water pump, and protects the cooling system from corrosion. In very cold areas, it may be necessary to increase the concentration of coolant – but never more than 70% coolant to 30% water. Also, coolant should be flushed and refilled at least every two years in most vehicles. Check battery and charging system for optimum performance. Very cold temperatures will reduce a vehicle's battery power so it’s important to keep the connections clean, tight and corrosion-free. Unfortunately, batteries don't always give warning signs before they fail completely. If your vehicle's battery is more than three years old, it's wise to replace it. When choosing a replacement, make sure the new one has adequate capacity for your exact make and model.

Winter Driving Tips

• Drive according to the weather conditions – which usually means slow down and leave extra space.
• Install four winter tires. Make certain your tires are properly inflated.
• Plan your route so that you aren't making erratic maneuvers on the road.
• When driving on ice or snow, allow plenty of room to stop and start.
• Drive with headlights on to increase your visibility to other motorists
• Maintain a safe distance between your vehicle and others. Stopping takes longer on snowy and icy roads.
• Do not use cruise control on wet, snowy or icy highways.
• Keep your gas tank full to prevent the gas line from freezing and to maximize traction on slick roads.
• Stay on well-travelled roads if possible.
• Be sure all windows, lights, mirrors and license plates are free of snow.
• Keep a Winter Road Side Safety and Emergency Kit in your car at all times, including an ice scraper/snow brush, first aid kit, jumper cables, a flashlight and a warm blanket.
• Let others know about your route and your expected arrival time.
• Always wear your seat belt.
• Avoid driving in poor weather conditions whenever possible.
• Avoid driving while you're fatigued. Getting the proper amount of rest before taking on winter weather tasks reduces driving risks.
• Never warm up a vehicle in an enclosed area, such as a garage.
• Avoid using your parking brake in cold, rainy and snowy weather.
• Always look and steer where you want to go.
• Use your seat belt every time you get into your vehicle.
• If the weather is really bad, just stay home

Timing Belts

With vehicles engines as with life, timing is critical. One vehicle element often overlooked during routine maintenance is the engine-timing belt. If it snaps, the engine will stop and the car will coast to a stop. The unfortunate driver may be stranded on the side of the road until the timing belt can be replaced. But that may be the least of your worries; this could badly damage your engine as well.



This potential disaster can be completely avoided if you have your timing belt checked regularly and having it replaced. Check your owner’s manual and see how often that they recommend replacing your timing belt.

The timing belt is a toothed belt that is connected from the crankshaft to the camshaft. The camshaft is responsible for operating (opening and closing the intake and exhaust valves). When the timing belt breaks or the rubber teeth shear off there is often a collision between the valves and the piston causing major damage.

Stress Management Works for Holidays and Automobiles

Holidays bring their own kind of stress to most of us, so don’t let you car add to that stress. Failing to plan for maintenance for your vehicle can turn small problems into bigger ones, putting a serious dent in your automotive budget. The price of procrastinating on vehicle maintenance can range from a heater that runs cold to a battery that won't start your car.

Take care of your car's seasonal services immediately and make plans to get ahead of the game next year. An early visit to Metric Wrench Billings provides the opportunity to budget for unanticipated repairs.

Here is a few things you may want to have checked:

Engine performance

If your engine isn’t properly maintained it maybe difficult to start in cold weather, if even at all. It may run rough and lose power. Have fuel, ignition and emission control systems checked, necessary components replaced and adjustments made.

Battery and electrical system

How old is your battery? If it's three or more years old, it should be tested and replaced if necessary.  Have your battery terminals cleaned and tightened, because loose or corroded connections can cause symptoms of a weak or dead battery.

Visibility

Replace old wiper blades and be sure your washers are working. Carry spare washer solvent in your vehicle.

Cooling system

A vehicle's antifreeze should be changed annually, or as recommended in the owner's manual. Have the system pressure tested for leaks and check hoses and drive belt(s) for tension and condition.

Tires

Inspect, balance, check inflation and rotate tires. Check inflation on the spare and make sure the jack is in its place.

Lights

Check all lights and replace burned out bulbs

Exhaust System

Have the vehicle put on a lift for an inspection of the exhaust system. Leaking exhaust fumes can be deadly.

If you have questions or concerns about your vehicle, please call Metric Wrench Billings today and talk to a Certified Service Technician.

Metric Wrench, BMW Repair in Billings MT Shares Some Tips on Taking Care of Your BMW

In the past, working on your own vehicle was no big deal, but today with the advancement of computers, gadgets and gizmo's, you’re better off taking your vehicle to a qualified mechanic like those at Metric Wrench in Billings Montana. And while it’s a good idea to have your own mechanic, there are definitely things that you can do that will assist in keeping your BMW in tip top shape as well as looking nice too, and the things that you can do are easy!

The first thing that you can do is to check your oil. If you check it on the same day each month it’s easier to remember. If you own one of the newer model BMW/s that doesn’t have an oil dipstick, you’ll want your mechanic at Metric Wrench Billings to show you how to check your oil by way of reading your on-board computer or you can read the instructions in your owner’s manual.

It’s a BMW, treat it with respect, clean it when it gets dirty! Get that dirt and the environmental products off your car so that it doesn’t do any unnecessary damage.

Check your tire pressure, remember that having your tires properly inflated can save on gas too! Another thing that you can do is to open and close your windows and sunroof on a regular basis, this will allow for them to lubricate and function properly. Window regulators (the tool that makes them go up and down) needs to be replaced most often on cars that don’t use them very often. So just remember to open and close all of your windows from time to time, even if you don’t use them.

BMW’s are designed to be low in the front and this can prove to be problematic when they come in contact with the bumper strips that are in parking garages. These bumper strips can tear bumpers and fender liners. If you park your car in one of those garages, park your car about a foot shorter into the space so that you don’t connect your bumper to concrete.

Beside the fact that there is freon used in your AC, there is also a fair amount of oil used to keep the compressor as well as a variety of other components running to their full capacity. If they sit for an extended period of time without being used, this can lead to a loud compressor and dry seals. If you live in MT, you should run your AC for a few minutes a couple of times in the winter to keep it moving.

Okay, now this tip is really important, open the hood of your car. Even though you may not understand what is under the hood, most people will notice if something in there that doesn’t belong, like twigs and branches or if there is oil all over the engine or belts are cracked, this can prevent your car from breaking down in the future.

And here’s a tip that you are sure to love, drive that baby! BMWs hate to sit and do nothing, they enjoy being driven. Have fun, enjoy your car, but don’t abuse it.

And finally, know the maintenance of your vehicle, keep a journal. Know what repairs have been done to your BMW, what needs to be done will help to keep your BMW purring like a kitten. If you hear hear an odd noise or your car does something strange, write it down, how fast you were going, all of the details about the circumstance, this will help your Metric Wrench Billings mechanic to get to the root of the problem and solve your issue.

None of these tips are extremely hard. Remember, Metric Wrench Billings mechanics don’t have your car on a daily basis, you do. Staying on top of these effortless things will minimize how much you spend on service per year, avert avoidable damage to your BMW, and keep as much of your car’s value as possible, if you ever decide to sell, you will have a BMW that is in tiptop shape.