Saab Central - Technical Help
Classic Saab 900: Hot Weather Tips
Some little appreciated facts on the effects of hot weather on cars and their components have been issued by Saab-Scania of America, and are just as applicable in this country during the summer months. Technical manager Dan David points out that not only engines overheat, but cassette decks, batteries, tyres and wiper blades.
High temperatures make the tape-drive components stick: they pick up dirt and adhesives from tapes especially if the cassettes have been left in a car parked in the sun. "Unless the player is cleaned periodically, the tapes can tangle and jam the machine," he says. Tape players can be cleaned with isopropyl alcohol or with a special tape cleaner.
The battery posts should be cleaned, for Saab-Scania of America has found that if the positive battery post is not cleaned before reconnecting, there may be an oil film between the post and the terminal end. "Extreme under-bonnet temperatures turn this oil film into a strong electrical resistance, which can be the source of hard-to-diagnose voltage problems, ranging from instrument fluctuation to a dead battery when engine and battery are hot."
Mr. David explains that heat falsifies tyre-pressure readings, so tyres should always be checked when cold. Never remove air from a hot tyre, as the pressure could have risen above the maker's recommended limit - not dangerous on the move, as this has been allowed for in the design, but it could be if someone tried to reduce the pressure after a long, fast drive in hot weather.
On car bodywork, Mr. David explains that strong sunlight, combined with acid rain and other pollutants, attack the finish, so it should be washed regularly (provided there is no drought) as the best way to stop the formation of permanent spots that mar the finish and induce rust. Ozone in the air also deteriorates wiper blades, which should be inspected and, if need be, replaced during the summer, when dry conditions can cause them to leave scratches on the windscreen from the abrasive dust and particles that can adhere to the blades.
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Classic Saab 900
