Preparing Your Vehicle for a Road Trip

The Spring Break season is upon us, and before you know it, it will be time to pack up the car and get a little R&R at your vacation of choice. Here at Bledsoe’s Towing and Automotive, we love nothing more than a good road trip, but we also know how important it is to make sure your car is in good working order first. Before you and your friends or family hit the road, here are a few things you should do to keep your car in tip-top shape.

Get A Check-Up

Just like you keep yourself in good condition by a regular check-up with your doctor, your car needs the same thought and care. Bring your vehicle out to the best auto maintenance shop at the Lake of the Ozarks and we’ll give everything a look to make sure it’s ready for the road. Here are a few things we’ll be paying attention to:

Engine Oil

Your vehicle needs engine oil to not only run efficiently but to run at all. If the oil is low, you’ll find your trip could be stopped before it ever got started. We can check your oil, and if the levels are low we can top them off. If you haven’t had an oil change recently, now is a great time to get one. Many vehicles need to have their oil changed every 3,000 miles, but you can refer to your owners manual, or your local auto shop at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Transmission & Differential Fluids

Your vehicles have other fluids besides oil. The transmission and drive axle have their own lubricant supply that needs to be checked on before your big trip. You can refer to you owner’s manual for their suggested change intervals since it’s normally longer than the engine oil.

Hoses

Rubber hoses are known to last around ten years if they just sit on a shelf - but when they are in your car they can be exposed to temperatures of over 200 degrees. Those high temps cause the rubber to become hard. When they become hard they can crack and then the fluids don’t stay where they’re supposed to.

Belts

There are many belts in your vehicles from the serpentine belt that runs the water pump to the timing belt. These belts also tend to have a habit of breaking at the most inopportune time, like when you’re stuck in the 2-mile traffic back-up.

Engine Coolant

Many vehicles come with engine coolant that is designed to go 100,000 to 150,000 miles. If your car is less than four years old, you’ll want to make sure that the under-hood coolant reservoir is topped up.

Road Trips to Remember

There are so many fun memories made on a road trip, but the one memory we don't’ want you to make it being stranded on the side of the road waiting for a tow truck at the Lake of the Ozarks (though, if you need one, we provide a 24-hour towing service at the Lake of the Ozarks.) Prepare for your trip by having your vehicle looked at before you leave and save yourself some unfortunate downtime. Bring your car out to Bledsoe’s Towing and we’ll get you ready for the road trip of a lifetime!

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Warning Smells From Your Car

There can be many warning signs that your car is in need of repair, from the sounds of something clanking to the sight of something not working. One of the most obvious signs, though, is when your car smells. There can be many different smells your car may experience, so today we want to talk about the some of the bad ones so you can know exactly what to do if you find yourself in this situation.

Disclaimer: This is not a DIY post, we recommend if you notice anything wrong with your vehicle that you bring it to the best automotive center at the Lake of the Ozarks. If it isn't able to start, you can call the best tow company at the Lake of the Ozarks as well.

6 Warning Smells From Your Vehicle

1. Burnt Rubber

From slipping drive belts to misplaced loose hoses - this smell is something to be aware of. It could be something rubbing against rotating accessory drive pulleys. Sometimes it could even be a sign of an oil leak. If you notice this smell, it's important to get your vehicle to a service station and have them inspect.

2. Hot Oil

Do you notice the smell of hot oil coming from your vehicle? It could mean that oil is leaking onto the exhaust system. You can verify that there is a leak by looking for oil on the pavement or smoke coming from the engine of your car. If you notice this happening, turn off the engine before checking for a leak.

3. Gasoline

If you smell gasoline, it could be as simple as having some on your hands from when you filled up. It could also be a sign of a gas leak. One common place you'll experiences this is possibly a fuel injector line or the fuel tank. Take caution when you smell fuel. Any time you smell gasoline your car can be a possible fire hazard, so you should call someone immediately to come out and take a look.

4. Syrup

Have you ever smelled a sweet syrupy smell coming from your car? This could be a sin that your car is leaking engine coolant from a component related to the car's cooling system. If you notice this smell, do not open the radiator cap when it is hot.

5. Burning Carpet

This smell could be the sign of brake trouble. You'll want to have your brakes checked immediately, especially if you notice the smell during normal driving conditions. Brake trouble is a driving safety hazard, and you'll want to contact your automotive center in Camdenton, MO to have it checked out.

6. Rotten Eggs

This unmistakeable smell could mean the catalytic converter is not converting hydrogen sulfide in the exhaust to sulfur dioxide properly. A poorly running engine can cause the catalytic converter to become overloaded and fail because of a meltdown. It's important to keep your vehicle in good working condition.

Caring For Your Vehicle

At Bledsoe's Towing, we know how important it is to have your car working properly. Whether you need to run errands or rely on it to get you to work - a car maintenance issue can cause some serious setbacks. Trust the best mechanics at the Lake of the Ozarks to keep your car in great working condition - which will keep you out on the road longer.

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Maintenance Milestones For Your Vehicle

Just like your body needs good food, exercise, and a little tune up at the doctor every so often your car needs the same. When you invest quality parts and time into your vehicle, you can reap the rewards of your vehicle running smoothly and keeping you safe on the road. It's important to not neglect routine maintenance on your vehicle, not just for short-term advantages, but long term as well. Here at Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we know that vehicle maintenance can get away from you, so we have a timeline to help you remember important car maintenance to perform and when.

3 Months or 3,000 Miles

When your odometer turns over 3,000 more miles, or it's been three months since you've been to the best Lake of the Ozarks mechanic - it's time to take a pit stop. There are a few things that need to be inspected on your car, starting with the oil and filter. It's important to make sure this is done on a routine basis for the long-term health of your vehicle. You should also make sure all of the fluids are topped off, have the air filter inspected, check the tire pressure, have the belts and hoses inspected, and make sure the wiper blades are still in good working condition.

6 Months or 6,000 Miles

It's time to rotate your tires! At Bledsoe's, we not only have a great selection of tires at the Lake of the Ozarks, we can take care of rotating your tires as well. You should also have your brakes inspected at this point as well. It's imperative that your brakes continue to stay in good working order because they not only affect you but others on the road as well. Finally, make sure that your car is ready for the next season - whether it be summer or winter.

12 Months or 12,000 Miles

Align the suspension, rotate and balance tires, install new wiper blades, and install a new fuel filter. You should also have your fuel injector cleaned, and get a new cabin air filter. This is basic maintenance that needs to be performed once a year - and while you may not notice it, you will if it goes bad.

Every 30,000 Miles

Bring your vehicle in for a full vehicle inspection. This is important for your vehicle because we can catch some maintenance needs before they become a big deal or cause trouble for your vehicle. Next, you'll want to flush the transmission fluid, have the transmission filter services, flush the brake fluid, check the battery, clean the throttle body, and replace the spark plugs and distributor cap. Even if you don't know what any of these items do - they are still important and need to be done.

Every 60,000 Miles

Replace your timing belt. While not every vehicle has a timing belt (some have timing chains), it's still a vital maintenance need for your vehicle. In fact, it can be SO important, that if you don't have it done in time, you could need some very expensive maintenance done on your vehicle, and it could be in the shop for a long time. Don't skimp on the timing belt. If you don't know the status of your timing belt, come out to Bledsoe's Towing, we can take a look and let you know when you need to have it replaced. You should also have your power steering fluid flushed at this point.

Automotive Shop in Camdenton, MO

Along with finding a mechanic that you trust, you want to find one with a trusted reputation. Bledsoe's Towing has been the best auto mechanic shop at the Lake of the Ozarks for over fifty years, and this is just the beginning. We look forward to helping you keep your vehicle in good working order for years to come. Give us a call, or stop by the shop. We would be glad to assist you in caring for your vehicle.

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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About Your Lake of the Ozarks Auto Shop

Finding an automotive company you trust to work on your vehicle can be a huge process, especially if you are new to town. You want a company who can fix many different types of issues, large or small, as well as do preventative maintenance. All of this is what you can find at Bledsoe's Towing at Automotive. Our team of mechanics are trained and friendly - ready to help! Here are some things you may enjoy learning about Bledsoe's Towing, as well as some of our history!

About Bledsoe's Towing

Starting with the original grand opening of the Camden Shell Service station in 1964, Bledsoe's has been the center of activity and a long-standing community business. Folks of this small hometown lake community can tell you stories of spending their time after school working on their vehicles with the use of tools and the lifts at Bledsoe's. Their descriptions of fondly remembered activities are centered on this community hub and bring you to the belief that there are businesses that still truly care. Some residences will tell you stories of how Bledsoe's was there when they needed a tow in their time of need. Like the Cabin move below. Whatever the story, they all have described more than just a service station.

Please be sure and check out the photo gallery and tell us all about your fond memories. Just email us through our contact page.

Bledsoe's Timeline

• Original opening: Kenny Bledsoe and Charles Anderson, Founders in 1964

• In 1977, Jim Dulle and Kenny Bledsoe became partners in Super Muff Exhaust which shared the facilities at the present location.

• Around 1982, Kenny Bledsoe and Jim Dulle became partners in Bledsoe's and Super Muff.

• In 1990, Kenny Bledsoe sold his interest to his son John (Pug) Bledsoe. And now, Jim Dulle and Pug Bledsoe run the present day Bledsoe Automotive Service.

• Over the years, Bledsoe's has been affiliated with Shell and Conoco fuel companies but today they are an independent service station with strong roots in Camdenton, Missouri.

Services at Bledsoe's Towing & Automotive

• Complete automotive maintenance services

• Tires

• Tires balanced and rotated

• Oil changes

• Transmission fluid service

• Belts and hoses

• Brake rotors/drums and pads

• Front end alignments

• Fuel and air filters

• Muffler and exhaust systems

• Windshield replacement

• Towing/accident recovery

• Fuel Sales: Regular unleaded, premium unleaded, diesel, off-road diesel, kerosene

The Best Automotive

At Bledsoe's Towing, we are more than just your local automotive shop at the Lake of the Ozarks. We are your family. We have been at the Lake for over 50 years, and in that time we have built up great relationships with our new and loyal customers alike. From maintenance to 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks, we are here for you. Visit our social media sites and website to learn more about our company and how we can serve you!

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Protecting Your Car From Winter Wear & Tear

We're still just hovering at the beginning of winter - and so far we're seeing our fair share of winter weather for our area. While it's easy to get caught up in preparing for weather by filling our pantry, checking our pipes, and making sure we have enough blankets on hand - sometimes our vehicles get forgotten about. From protecting your paint to your tires and even the interior of your vehicle, here are a few ways you can protect your car even during the dead of winter.

Protecting Your Paint

With winter weather comes road salt - and this can be extremely hard on your car's finish. Your best bet to protect your the paint on your vehicle by putting a coating on it. If you aren't sure what type of coating would be best for your vehicle, there are many ways to find one that works not only with your vehicle but with your budget as well. We know it can be hard to wash your vehicle in the winter, but it's important to not let the salt sit on your vehicle for any longer than you have to.

Protecting Your Wheels

Did you know that there are actually products that protect your wheels the same way they can protect your vehicle's paint? Take some time to treat your tires and wheels with respect, as they are what keeps you getting around safe on the road in many types of weather. In cold weather, you want to keep the rubber soft and supple to keep it from cracking - but you also want to make sure they have plenty of air in them as well! If you find that the tread on your tires is getting too low, we keep a good stock of tires at the Lake of the Ozarks and can have them changed out for you.

Protecting Your Windshield Wipers

There are special additives that you can get for your windshield wiper fluid that will help keep your windshield clean and frost free! This is not only good for your windshield but also your wipers as well. Snow and ice can be hard on your wipers - so it's important to take care of them. You will also want to keep a good, quality ice scraper in your vehicle for those moments.

Protecting Your Garage

There are garage floor mats that you can get to protect your garage floor. These mats have a raised lip around the outside to keep water from spreading all around your garage and making it slippery and dangerous. It can also keep your concrete clean from oils leaks.

Keeping It Covered & Protect the Interior

If you have to keep your car outside during the winter, you may want to consider getting a cover to help protect the finish from getting too much winter weather. There are many covers on the market that are manageable enough to take on and off every day, while still protecting your vehicle.

Don't forget about the interior of your vehicle as well! Winter is just as hard on the inside of your car as it is on the outside, especially the floor mats. By keeping quality mats in your car, it can protect the flooring from salt, water, snow, mud, and dirt.

Keeping Your Car Running Longer at Bledsoe's Towing & Automotive

While you care for the outside of your vehicle - let US care for the inside! Cold temps can be just as hard on your engine as it is on your paint, and if you find that your car isn't running properly, or it makes strange sounds, bring it in! As the weather could get bad this weekend, don't forget to stay safe and be careful. Should you find yourself in a sticky situation, remember that Bledsoe's offers 24-hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks and we want to be your first call for rescue.

Serving the Lake of the Ozarks with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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New Year's Resolutions For Your Car

It's never too late to make resolutions, and when it involves your car it's always better late than never. Your vehicle is a finely tuned machine, and when it doesn't get tuned up on a regular basis it doesn't take long for it to be a hazard. Even something as simple as the air pressure being low in your tire can cause unforeseen issues. Here at Bledsoe's Towing, we want to help keep you on the road - safely and efficiently. Here are a few resolutions that you can make for 2017 to help keep your car in good working order.

Stay Up-To-Date on Oil Changes

Having fresh, clean oil in your vehicle is an important way you can keep it running for longer. Be sure to keep up on oil changes by finding ways to remember them. If you drive a lot and you hit the mile limit before the time limit, make a point to check your mileage on a specific day of the week when you'll be in your vehicle. If you only need your oil changed every 3 months, set an alarm on your phone to remind you when your next oil change should be.

Watch Your Tire Pressure

As the weather and temperatures change and fluctuate your tire pressure will be affected. When the air is warm it will cause the air inside your tires to expand and when the air is cold it will cause your tire pressure to contract. This explains why your tire pressure light will come on when it's cold outside, and then go off after you've driven for a little while and the tires warm up. Make it a goal this year to always keep on top of your tire pressure. This will help the life of your tires as well as your gas mileage.

Keep Up With Annual Maintenance

Does your vehicle need some minor maintenance to keep it in good condition? Make it a goal to get it taken care of early this year. If your vehicle needs any major maintenance, give us a call and get an appointment set up immediately. You don't want to drive your vehicle when it's in a dangerous condition.

Keep Your Car Clean

This may not affect the life of your engine, but it certainly affects the condition of your car. Your floor mats, seats, seat belts, dashboard and more can all be benefitted from regular cleaning. If you only take a soapy cloth and wipe things down and give it a quick vacuum you will notice nice results.

Change Out Your Tires

It's easy to let your tires go miles and miles without replacement, but in bad weather, you'll wish you hadn't. You can try the penny test (or quarter test) to make sure that there is still enough tread on your tires. If you put the penny in upside down and can see the top of Lincoln's head, it's time for new tires. At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we have a great selection of tires at the Lake of the Ozarks and would be glad to get you back on the road.

Automotive at the Lake of the Ozarks

Are you looking for a trusted auto company at the Lake of the Ozarks where you can take your vehicle? Look no further! At Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive, we would love to help you keep your resolutions AND keep your vehicle on the road longer. Give us a call to get a quote - 573-346-7050.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Is it Time to Replace Your Timing Belt?

With the busyness of life, and often times lack of knowledge in regard to your vehicle, your timing belt can be forgotten. Unfortunately, the timing belt plays a bigger role in your vehicle than you may have realized, and if it fails, you could be stranded on the road or without a vehicle for a while. Here are a few important things to know about your timing belt, and how the best automotive center at the Lake of the Ozarks can help.

What is a Timing Belt?

A timing belt is a ribbed belt that can be found on the side of your engine. It's placed in such a way that it keeps the top half of your engine in sync with te bottom half. In a non-interference engine, it doesn't cause any issue when the timing belt breaks, but in interference engines, it's a whole different story.

What Does My Timing Belt Do?

If you have an interference engine, the valve's and piston's stroke take up the same space in the cylinder. The timing belt essentially keeps the pistons and the valves from smashing into each other. If the timing belt snaps, they run into each other. There are many things that can happen from bent valves to cylinder head or camshaft damage, maybe even piston and cylinder wall damage.

In a non-interference engine, the pistons and valves don't share the same space, and if the timing belt snaps there is no cylinder or valve damage. You can just add a new belt and the engine should typically be fine.

How Much Does it Cost to Change a Timing Belt?

It's not always as simple as just replacing the timing belt, because of this, the cost is not very straightforward until we can get under the hood and take a look. It is suggested to also replace the water pump, tensioner, and pulleys when you replace the timing belt, as well as any damage that could have occurred when the timing belt snapped.

Signs That My Timing Belt Needs to be Replaced

Occasionally, when the timing belt needs to be replaced, you'll hear a ticking sound from the engine. Sometimes you'll also notice that the engine misfires or doesn't even turn over at all. Sometimes you'll even notice oil leaking from the front of the engine. Unfortunately, in many cases, you don't realize the timing belt needs to be replaced until it's too late. You can check your vehicle's owner's manual to get a better idea of when the belt replaced. Many manufacturers say it should be replaced no later than 120,000 miles.

Vehicle Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

From easy maintenance like tire changes and windshield wiper replacements to more complicated maintenance like having to replace a timing belt at the Lake of the Ozarks - we can help. Count on your local automotive shop at the Lake of the Ozarks to care for your vehicle and get you back on the road - FAST!

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing at automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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