Tune ups are a beautiful thing.

As you may have read, I did a tune-up on my '95 Suzuki Sidekick this past weekend. It was a basic ignition tune: spark plugs, ignition wires, distributor cap, and rotor (I threw in a new air filter in there, too). Although I hit a snag along the way (thanks to what was likely a bump of the ignition coil plug by yours truly), the results of this tune up are impressive. I've never done a tune up that made such a difference to the way a vehicle drives.

Previous to changing all the things that make sparks in the engine bay (sans the coil), I had a noticeable rough idle and a distinct bogging in the lower RPM range, which caused a lack of power. However, after I got the vehicle running, both of these symptoms disappeared. The trucklet runs stronger and smoother than before. Also, after futzing with the temperature sending unit, my engine temperature gauge appears to be functional. Oh the luxury.

The last result was a gain in overall power. Although this sounds like a Captain Obvious statement, it was very noticeable, especially on the highway. I mean, let's face it: The Suzuki Sidekick isn't exactly a powerhouse (mine was rated at 95 hp at the crank), so every little bit helps when trying to keep up with traffic on the freeway.

This miscellaneous rambling, of course, can be applied to all gasoline-powered vehicles. Keep those cars and trucks tuned up, and you'll get better gas mileage and more power. You can thank me later for such prophetic advice.