TECH TIPS

THINK BEFORE YOU JUMP

Using your vehicle, HMV or otherwise, to jump-start another vehicle can be hard on your generator or alternator unless it’s done right. Alternators and generators were not designed to charge a vehicle’s battery while the starter is cranking and drawing a lot of power.

If the other vehicle’s battery is dead, hook up your jumper cables — taking all the usual precautions — then run your engine at moderate RPM for about five minutes to charge the other vehicle’s battery.

Then shut your engine off while the other driver cranks his. Don’t let yourself be talked into running your engine while the other guy is cranking because it “saves time.” It might save him time, but that won’t help you if your generator or alternator is overloaded, overheated, and damaged.

You might also remind the impatient person how long it would have taken for a tow-truck to get there if you hadn’t chosen to help.

ELIMINATING THE IMPOSSIBLE: PART ONE

Steve: I really enjoy your “Tech Tips.” It’s the first thing I read when I get a new Military Vehicles Magazine.

I have a problem I would like to ask you about on my 1942 Ford GPW. I am just finishing it after four years of rebuilding.

I am 63 and have worked in industrial maintenance for 24 years.