Stay on the level.

Here are two fluid checks that are easy and important to look at before the day's run.

Coolant Level Check

Eyeball the engine coolant level before start-up. That's easy because the coolant's sight gauge is in open view on the curb side of the vehicle, next to the radiator.

Coolant low? Open the radiator's filler cap slowly. Add coolant until it fills the sight gauge.

Oil Level Check

When you check the engine oil level, make sure you read the right scale on the dipstick. It could save your unit a big repair bill.

Oil expands when it heats up, so readings will change. Check the oil level before you start the engine, when the oil is cold. Make sure the oil level is above the ADD mark on the ENGINE STOPPED side of the dipstick.

There is no approved method to use the ENGINE RUNNING side of the dipstick.

If you accidentally add too much oil, shut off the engine, remove the oil fill plug and use an AOAP vampire pump to remove the excess.