Watch and learn
Almost anything can provide an “occasion for learning”. This morning, although I awoke too early (no longer have an alarm clock sense), my arrival at the local garage was on time. I handed over the keys and headed off to wander the immediate area; a graveyard that I hadn’t entered in four decades served as a reminder that many have tred the path before me.
Of course, the tour didn’t take long, and I arrived back at the bay before my job was done. The car made the seasonal change from fat to skinny tires, and I decided to ask and learn. First thing: there is nothing standard in the wheel industry. Studs come in different patterns, treads and lengths. They can be different from the front to the rear on the SAME car. Happily, none of my studs has been stripped or cross-threaded, to date.
Next, the torque required is a variable. For mine, 90 (foot-lbs??) is the magic setting on a torque wrench. The wheels will need to be retorqued within the week. As well, air pressure (check the sticker inside your owner manual or near the door jamb) varies from car to car. I didn’t go for the nitrogen upgrade.
Finally, our car has magical pressure sensors on each wheel. The warning light won’t go out until I’ve taken the car for a short run at road speed. I think that happened this afternoon; I’m too lazy to check, right now. More concerned with getting the kitchen cleaned up and my evening started. Outside, cool and clear. Might see some stars before bedtime.
