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Virtual Mechanic
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Car and bike questions? We have the answers
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Is it possible to change the tyre rims of my new Tata Sumo DX Kingsize with Safari EX alloy rims? Will some adjustments have to be done with the steering or suspension? At present, I use tyre size 235/70 (from the Safari) on original Sumo rims of 15J size (whereas size of Safari rims is 16J).
P Wadhwa, via email
The Tata Safari comes fitted with 235/70-R-15 while the Sumo is fitted originally with 195/80-R-15, really the best choice of tyres for this vehicle.
The Sumo can be fitted with this tyre, subject to clearance. However, due to the camber angle of the Sumo, it is likely that the tyre might have excessive wear on one side and the steering response may also be a little stiff.
Some Sumos are also fitted with 16-inch rims with 185/80-R-16 tyre size but on 5.5 F profile rims. You can fit the 235/70-R-16 or even the 245/75-R-16 on such rims, subject to vehicle clearance. It is, however, technically not recommended.
My Maruti Zen has travelled only about 2,000km in a span of one year. Recently, its clutch plates have been damaged (according to the dealer) and he replaced them. After the replacement, I get a burning smell when I drive through dense or slow traffic. Please advise in this regard. The car is under a two-year warranty.
Neela Taneja, via email
It looks like you've been riding the clutch, resting your foot on the clutch pedal while crawling through traffic. This would make the clutch slip and smell like it is burning, which is common in traffic, when the clutch needs to be slipped to keep the car going. Ideally, the clutch should be slipped only when the pace is so slow that you can't stay in a low gear with the clutch engaged, but you seem to be slipping the clutch a lot more than necessary.
The clutch shouldn't wear out at merely 2,000 km.
I've just bought a BMW 316i which reaches a speed of 105 kph but then does not go any further. Pick-up to 105-110 kph is fine in third gear, but after that the engine just stutters and refuses to go further. I am told that the 316i is capable of 200 kph. Can you help me out?
Vikas Kumar, via email
It appears that the fuel injectors may be gummed up, thanks to the poor quality of fuel.
Check the air and fuel filters, and use a fuel additive in the fuel tank, which will unclog the fuel injectors, and loosen the legs of that poor car.
What are the widest tyres that can be fitted to the Maruti Baleno's original rim with an eye on improving its braking and handling?
R Magoo, via email
As regards to 13-inch original rim, you can fit 175/80R13 to get but it will increase the ground clearance by 16mm.
The best option is to go in for 175/70R14 tyres. Remember you have to change to a 14-inch rim which will increase the ground clearance by 8mm.
Write in with your queries to wheels@thehindu.co.in
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