The rules stated here are to be used in conjuction with discussions
in class. Remember SAFETY FIRST
Anytime you plan to work on a vehicle, there are some important
safety precautions that you should follow.
- Before
you even begin looking under the hood of your car, be certain that the
parking brake is engaged and the car is in "park." As an extra
precaution, chock the wheels to ensure that the car doesn't roll.
- If you must work underneath your car, be sure that it is
supported properly. Your jack is not designed to support the car alone.
You'll need to use jack-stands or ramps.
- Try
to work on the car only with the engine turned off. If a circumstance
arises where you must start the car as you're working on it, make sure
you aren't wearing jewelry, loose clothing or anything that could catch
in moving parts.
- Never smoke when working on a vehicle.
- Wear
protective clothing or accessories appropriate to the work you're
doing. These may include work gloves and safety glasses or goggles.
- Use the right tool for the job -- even if that means you have to
rent them.
Booster cables (or jumper
cables) are an important vehicle accessory
that may help you out of a roadside emergency, or help get you to work
on time. Here are some booster-cable tips:
- Purchase
high-quality booster cables. The gauge of the wire in the cables is an
indicator of the quality and handling capacity for electrical current.
Lower gauge numbers mean heavier cables. Try to find cables in 4- or
6-gauge.
- Make certain to get cables of adequate
length. Purchase cables at least 12 feet in length -- longer, if
possible. The positioning of the booster vehicle and the one with the
problem battery, and also the variable positioning of batteries within
engine compartments, can make for problems if your booster cables are
too short.
- Booster cables should have clamps that
are color-coded (typically red and black) to help ensure that the
cables are hooked to the proper battery terminals. Look for cables with
clamps that can hook up to any type of battery terminals (e.g.,
top-mounted or side-mounted).
- Top-quality booster
cables may cost a little more, but the extra expense is worth it when
you rely on cables to help you out of a tough spot.
- Safety is the responsibilty of everyone who is in the work area.
- Do not attempt any task or use equipment without training or
permission.
