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Blow off generator twice a week from left side. By closing valve before the steam has quite all escaped, the
generator will refill itself with water. This is due to the fact that as the enclosed steam is condensed it forms a
vacuum. The pressure of the atmosphere forces water from the tank to fill the space formerly occupied by the steam.
If car refuses to start when throttle is opened slightly, do not open it farther. Close it immediately and
investigate. It will probably be found that the simpling pedal is not pushed entirely down, the emergency brake is on,
or the reverse lever is in the center notch. Observance of this point may save a set of cylinder heads,
If the water regulator screen clogs frequently with lint, it is evidence that the water pump packing is old and
rotten, or that a rough spot on the pump plunger is tearing grooves in the same.
Do not allow the steam line from the generator to the engine to become bare and exposed to the air. It allows
considerable heat from the steam to escape and consequently is a source of fuel waste.
After replacing a bolt and nut, immediately put in the cotter key and spread it. Serious accidents might result
from a missing cotter key.
If a loose bolt is discovered, tighten it at once. Loose parts wear rapidly.
On the "new style" engines do not tighten valve stem stuffing boxes any tighter than necessary to hold the
steam. There is little pressure on them, and any extra tightness simply places an additional load on the valve gear.
Know that your lighting plant is in good condition. You may be far from home when overtaken by night and
darkness. It is unpleasant to drive without being able to see the road.
If a heavy wind is blowing, if possible, leave the car standing facing the wind. Sometimes a gust of wind
may whip in from the back and extinguish the pilot light. For the same reason carry the pilot turned higher on a windy
day.
If the pilot light goes out while running, close fuel valve and run a short distance before relighting. This
gives time for all unconsumed gas to escape. Have match lighted and in place before flushing a hot pilot light. This
avoids an accumulation of gas.
In applying emergency brake, do not allow brake dog to slip into each notch as lever moves forward. Grasp
the lever, lift the dog, and move forward as far as it will go and release. Sliding the dog over the notches soon wears it
until it will not hold.
A little kerosene poured into water tank while the water is hot greatly assists in flushing off the oil.
After car has been standing at curb for some time, turn on fuel slowly at first. The same condition exists as
when firing up. When leaving car at curb, throw gear lever in neutral position, close fuel valve and apply brake.
Know for certain that the pilot light is extinguished before refilling with fuel. This applies more strongly to
gasoline. Kerosene is not so easily ignited.
Never clamp a flow motor or pump in a vise. The pressure will distort the barrel of the former and check
seats in the latter.
Do not put a wrench on any fuel line unions with pilot light burning, unless positive that all feed valves are
closed.
Be courteous to those you meet on the road. It costs you nothing, and occasions arise when its results might
prove invaluable. Beware of loose sand, soft gravel and wet pavements. Once experienced, the sensation of losing
control of the car is never forgotten.
Eighty per cent of the recorded accidents are the result of carelessness and taking chances. Slow down and
look both ways at a railroad crossing. The death notices in the daily papers emphasize this point.