Thursday, January 30, 2014
How Do I Change the Tail Light Lens on an Oldsmobile Ciera
Replacing a tail light lens on your Oldsmobile Ciera requires removing the entire tail light assembly. The lens is molded to the rest of the assembly and cannot be removed separately. The assembly comes off the car very quickly and replacement light assemblies are readily available from the dealer or through some auto parts retailers. If you are on a budget, a more affordable option is to source this part through a salvage yard.
Instructions
- 1
Open the trunk of your Oldsmobile and locate the two retaining screws on the inboard edge of the tail light assembly. Remove both screws using a Phillips screwdriver and set them aside for later reuse.
2Pull the tail light assembly away from the body and locate the bulb sockets on the rear of the assembly. Rotate the bulb socket counterclockwise to unlock it from the assembly, then pull the socket and bulb out of the assembly.
3Install the bulb sockets into the rear of the new taillight assembly; rotate them clockwise to lock them in place. Now is a good time to replace any bulbs in the rear that may not be working.
4Position the new tail light assembly on the rear of the car and install the two retaining screws through the tail light, threading them into the body. Tighten the screws with a Phillips screwdriver until they are snug, but do not over-tighten them or you will crack the plastic.
5Repeat the process for the opposite side assembly, if needed. Close the trunk of the car.
Monday, December 9, 2013
How to Replace a Thermostat in a 1993 Oldsmobile
The thermostat in your 1993 Oldsmobile is a devise that regulates the engine temperature. It opens automatically and circulates antifreeze (engine coolant) into the engine block when the temperature rises. And conversely, remains closed when the engine temperature is normal. This device is located between your engines radiator and the engine, and is mounted onto the block. Fairly inexpensive and simple to replace, it is a very important part of the engines cooling system and should be replaced at the first signs of engine overheating to prevent major damage.
Instructions
- 1
Place a recycling container under the radiator drain plug to capture the antifreeze. Remove the drain fill cap by hand to relieve the pressure. Loosen the drain plug to release a small amount of antifreeze from the radiator. Take out only enough to clear out the upper radiator hose that attaches to the thermostat.
2Disconnect the upper radiator hose using a flat-head screwdriver where it connects to the thermostat cover by loosening the screw-tight hose clamp. The opposite end that connects to the radiator can remain attached during the replacement repair. Move it aside and wedge it in the radiator fan area to allow for better clearance to the thermostat.
3Remove the two mounting bolts on either side of the thermostat housing cover using a socket wrench. Take off the housing cover and break the seal using the screwdriver. Carefully lift out the old thermostat.
4Stuff a small towel or sock into the housing opening to prevent debris from entering the engine. Scrape off the old gasket using a razor or paint scraper.
5Remove the sock and apply a small amount of gasket adhesive to the new gasket place it directly onto the thermostat opening. Be sure that the bolt holes are aligned so that the gasket and new thermostat will seat properly. Insert the new thermostat with the spring side down (into the engine).
6Put the thermostat housing on and secure in place with the mounting bolts, and tighten them using the socket wrench. Attach the radiator hose and secure it in place with the screw-tight hose clamp.
7Replace the removed antifreeze with a 45/55 mixture of new antifreeze and water. Pour it directly into the radiator, filling it to the top, and then replace the radiator cap.
8Start the engine, allow it to run for several minutes then turn the engine off. Re-check the antifreeze level and add more as necessary to top it off.