Irregular maintenance can be the main cause of abnormal engine operation. This is especially true of the engine of a purchased non-new car, which has not been subjected to regular checks. In such cases, in addition to periodic maintenance, it is necessary to carry out additional adjustment work.
Any kind of maintenance work, or the search for the cause of abnormal engine operation, should begin with a compression test in the cylinders. Cylinder compression testing provides valuable information regarding the general condition of many engine internals that can be used as a basis for both routine maintenance and repair procedures. If, for example, the compression is such that severe engine wear is evident, then routine maintenance will not restore normal performance and all work will be reduced to an unnecessary waste of time and money.
Below is a list of work, the implementation of which often leads to the restoration of normal operation of the engine.
Minor setup work
Check the condition and level of all engine fluids.
Clean, inspect and test the battery.
Check the cooling system.
Check all hoses in the engine compartment.
Check the condition of the crankcase ventilation spool.
Check the condition of the air filter and crankcase ventilation filter.
Replace spark plugs.
Check high-voltage wires, a cover and a runner of the distributor of ignition.
Check and adjust valve clearances.
Check and adjust idle speed and ignition timing.
Check the condition of the drive belts.
Basic adjustment work
Perform all minor work and those listed below:
Check the recirculation system.
Replace crankcase ventilation spool.
Replace air filter and crankcase ventilation filter.
Check the fuel system.
Replace fuel filter.
Replace wires, a cover and a runner of the distributor of ignition.
Check the ignition system.
Check the battery charging system.