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From: cnrdean@ucbtopaz.BERKELEY.EDU
Newsgroups: net.auto
Subject: Am I Doing A Good Tune-Up?
Message-ID: <398@ucbjade.BERKELEY.EDU>
Date: Mon, 3-Mar-86 18:21:27 EST
Article-I.D.: ucbjade.398
Posted: Mon Mar  3 18:21:27 1986
Date-Received: Wed, 5-Mar-86 04:06:26 EST
Sender: network@ucbjade.BERKELEY.EDU
Reply-To: cnrdean@ucbtopaz.BERKELEY.EDU ()
Organization: University of California, Berkeley
Lines: 25


I like to do my own work on my own cars.  However, with the advent of 
electronic ignition, fuel injection, etc. I find that there's not
much that I can do in the way of a 'tune-up'.  In the past, I used to:

1.  change the plugs
1a. change points, condensor
1b. check timing
1c. lube fittings
2.  change the oil
3.  change filters
4.  check brake fluid
5.  check transmission fluid
6.  check universal joint fluid

Now, I own a 1981 BMW 320i and a 1984 Honda Civic wagon.  I feel
guilty not doing 1abc, and I don't like to take my cars in for $65/hour
service.

Any recommendations on what I might be missing by not bringing it in
for service?  Am I missing a critical point in keeping my car in tune?
Do repair shops have some tool that I can't do without?  Is there an 
equivalent of the timing light & dwell meter?

Thanks.   Sam Scalise