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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5 Vehicle Fluids You Won't Want To Forget To Fill

Just like you need water to survive, your car has a list of fluids that it needs in order to perform as it should. Each fluid has a specific purpose and has a unique ability to keep your car running for longer, and at it's best capacity. While you may not notice these fluids on a day to day basis, you will certainly notice them if they aren't there. At Bledsoe's Towing, we make it a point to check your fluids when you visit the best mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks, so you don't have to worry about them. Here are a few of the fluids that you will want to keep your eye on when operating your vehicle.

Engine Oil

Oil is like the blood of your car, without it, you aren't getting very far. Engine oil accomplishes three key functions in your engine. It will help keep your engine components working smoothly together because the oil is constantly lubricating all of the functioning parts. It also helps keep your engine cool. Your engine is made up of thousands of controlled detonations, and they happen consistently while running. The oil helps draw the heat away from the combustion chamber and cool off your engine. Finally, it also helps keep the carbon and varnishes from increasing in your engine. With all of these important tasks, I'm sure you can see why it's important to keep this fluid full and clean.

Coolant

Coolant is made up of a mixture of antifreeze and water. It's stored in your car's radiator and helps to keep your car from overheating and eventual breakdown. While you can mix your own coolant with 50/50 water and antifreeze, it's better to leave that to the pros. If the mix isn't right it could increase the boiling point and decrease the freezing point, which could cause problems down the line.

Power Steering Fluid

This fluid transmits power in power steering. If you don't know what power steering is, you'll certainly find out when this fluid runs out! It allows you to easily steer your car without a lot of effort. If your car has ever suddenly died, and you can't turn the wheel without a LOT of effort, that's what happens when you have no power steering.

Brake Fluid

The reason brake fluid is so important, is because  it plays an important role in your braking system as it transfers the force created when you press the brake pedal directly onto the wheel hub. Braking is considered an undeniably important feature in your driving, as we're sure you would agree. Brake fluid also provides a lubricant for all of the moving parts and prevents corrosion.

Windshield Washer Fluid

While it may seem obvious why the windshield washer fluid is important, there are actually other reasons as well. Aside from it being important so you can clear your windshield of debris, having fluid in the reservoir also performs another function. It keeps the pumps and hoses in the reservoir lubricated and from corroding and degrading.

Best Car Maintenance at the Lake of the Ozarks

Our team of mechanics take their job seriously. We want to keep you out on the road longer, and with as few issues as possible. Of course, if you do happen to have a problem with your car, we would love to take a look at it and get it back up and running. If your car is not in a position to move - we even provide towing at the Lake of the Ozarks! Stop by our shop for your one-stop mechanic shop at the Lake of the Ozarks!

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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Common Car Maintenance You May Forget About

If you've ever looked under the hood of your car, you know that there are many details, and most are pretty complicated. All of those details need a fair amount of maintenance in order to continue working, thankfully, at Bledsoe's Towing, we can help you stay on top of all maintenance that your car needs in order to continue working properly. Here are a few maintenance procedures that should be done on a regular basis that you may have forgotten about.

Oil Change

If you forget about this important detail, you could find your vehicle in worse shape than you expected. A survey by Car Care actually found that 25% of vehicles actually have issues with their engine oil. What would your car do without oil? It would be like you running around without blood. The car oil coats the metal and keeps it from pressing too hard against each other.

Air Filter

Did you know that your car had an air filter? This little - but important piece - plays a huge role in your vehicle, and when it's dirty, it won't run to it's fullest potential. The same survey by Car Care actually found that 18% of vehicles on the road had problems with their air filter. It's important to bring this into the best car maintenance shop at the Lake of the Ozarks to get it taken care of.

Brake Fluid

This is important, for pretty obvious reasons! 13% of cars on the road had issues with their brake fluid, and we think that it's too high. Your brakes are part of what keeps you out of the ditch, and it's vitally important that you stay on the road where you belong.

Coolant Levels

Don't be one of the 17% of cars with low coolant levels. Engine coolant protects the aluminum engine parts, keeps the engine from overheating, and also keeps it from freezing. You don't just need enough coolant (also known as antifreeze) in the summer, it's just as vitally important in the winter.

Wiper Fluid

You only realize that you don't have it when you need it. This can go unnoticed because you only use your wiper fluid when your windshield is dirty. 16% of cars don't have the appropriate amount of fluid, and this can impact your visual abilities, which can affect the safety of you and your passengers.

Belts

There are many vehicles that need their belts changed after so many miles have been put on the engine. When these belts aren't changed enough, they don't just break, and you go on. They can actually cause serious problems, that can cost a lot of money to repair. Are you one of the 17% that needs new belts? Don't be in the category. Come out to Bledsoe's Towing to get your car belt changed at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Vehicle Service at the Lake of the Ozarks

Don't be one of the 84% of vehicles on the road that need service or repair! That number is way higher than we'd like to see it, which is why we make it our priority to care for your vehicle with expert care. Come visit our shop, give us a call or drop in, and we'd be glad to get your car looked at, and even answer your questions. Sometimes it's as simple as tightening your gas cap, other times, it needs full repair - and we can take care of this.

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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What Should You Do In Case Of A Car Accident?

The unthinkable has happened, you were driving down the road and suddenly, something unexpected happened and now you are in the ditch. After you've assessed the situation, it's time to start acting. Was there anyone else involved? Is your car capable of running? All of these are important questions to ask yourself. At Bledsoe's Towing, we take your safety seriously and we want to make sure that no matter what, you and your family are safe.

We provide 24 hour towing at the Lake of the Ozarks, and we'll be on the way to rescue you shortly. Before we get there, here are a few things you should do to make sure that you are covered and taken care of.

Assess the Situation

First, you want to make sure that no one has been injured. If everyone is okay, you'll want to make sure before ever stepping out of your vehicle that you have not hit any power lines. If you have, you'll want to stay in your vehicle to limit your risk of electrocution. If you smell smoke, though, this will change how you handle yourself, and you'll want to get out safely, but with certain precautions. If this is the case, you should jump away from the vehicle without touching it, and land with both feet together. Then hop as far away as possible keeping both feet together - but this is only in worst case scenarios.

Set Up Alerts

If you vehicle still works, you'll want to put your emergency blinkers on. If your vehicle is incapable of starting, you should put reflective cones around your vehicle to warn other drivers that you are having trouble so they can be careful around you. If you don't have any reflective cones in your vehicle, now is the time to get them so you'll be prepared.

Call the Police

When you are involved in an accident, you always want to call the police - especially if there is another vehicle involved. By calling the police you are protecting yourself and your car because they can file a police report which can be used when you file a claim. This is even more important if there is someone else involved because it will verify who was really at fault in the accident.

Call Your Lake of the Ozarks Tow Company

Bledsoe's Towing is open 24 hours a day, so no matter what time you find yourself in a sticky situation, we are ready to come to your rescue. While you want to call us quickly so we can be on the way, please call the police first. We will ask you several questions regarding the type of vehicle you have and the condition of the vehicle like whether it starts or not.

Keeping You Safe One Vehicle At a Time

From rescuing you on the highway with our towing services to helping keep you out of the ditch by keeping your car in working order, Bledsoe's Towing is here to help. We have the best vehicle maintenance at the lake of the Ozarks, and we would be honored to not only answer your car questions but fix them too. Visit our website to learn more about our services, or give us a call to get the answers you need.

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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Decoding the Lights on Your Dashboard - Part 3

If you've ever been driving down the road, only to realize there is a light on your dashboard that doesn't make sense, we know how you feel. Bledsoe's Towing has not only had the same thing happen, but we know how to fix it. Sometimes you'll get warnings that are hard to distinguish, but thankfully we have the technology to determine what the issue is. If it's an easy light on your dashboard, you can use this blog to help you determine the problem. Here is the third part in our series for decoding the lights on your dashboard!

Tire Rotation

If you have a newer vehicle you may see this light to remind you that it's time for a tire rotation. Rotating your tires provide even wear and helps to extend the life of your tires. Are you looking for a great place to get your tires rotated at the Lake of the Ozarks? Look no further, Bledsoe's Towing & Automotive can help!

Traction Control System

This system is also known as Anti-Slip Regulation. The main purpose is to engage during slippery conditions when your tires are out of synch. This will then alert your anti-lock braking system, and help to apply brake friction. This can help stabilize your vehicle and have you driving on the straight and narrow again. If you find this light on in your vehicle, and it won't go away, bring it out to our shop. We'll be able to take a look at it and see what's causing the traction control system to have an error.

Service Engine Soon

This light helps to signify that some abnormality has been triggered in your engine. It can be as simple as the gas cap being loose or the catalytic converter being faulty. If you notice that this light has appeared in your dash, the first thing you can do is check your gas cap. If it's loose, tighten it and see if the light will go away. If your gas cap is fine, bring your car out to the best automotive shop at the Lake of the Ozarks and we'll take a look at it.

Hazard Lights

This light is pretty self-explanatory. If you see this light on your dash, you've either purposefully turned on your hazards, or bumped the button accidentally. Hazard lights signify caution to the other motorists, and there are many reasons to use them.

Airbag Light

If you see this light on, there are a few explanations. One, it could just be that you have automatic airbags and too much weight in the passenger seat without the seatbelt. Some vehicles will turn off the airbags if there is weight on the seat and no belt buckled. If you can't find a good reason for this light to be on, you can check your vehicle's manual, or give us a call to schedule a check.

Door Ajar Light

The infamous, door ajar light. If you see this light on, you most likely have a door ajar - even if just slightly. This can also apply to your trunk. If the light illuminates, try re-closing all of your doors and your trunk. If the light still remains lit, you may need a reset to your computer system. Bring it out to Bledsoe's and we'll take a look!

The Best Auto Mechanics at the Lake of the Ozarks

From simple fixes to complex maintenance, we have the experience to get you back on the road in no time. Bledsoe's Towing and Automotive has been operating since 1964, and we are proud to continue the tradition of getting our hand greasy and getting your car back to normal. Let our team service your car today!

Did you miss the other blogs in the series? You can read them here:
Decoding the Lights on your Dashboard - Part 1
Decoding the Lights on your Dashboard - Part 2

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing & automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Your Vehicle Timetable

Much like your home needs specific repairs periodically, your vehicle needs to be inspected and repaired on a routine basis as well. One of the worst things you can do for your car is to neglect vital service procedures because not only will it not operate at it's fullest potential, but you could be harming it for future use. Here at Bledsoe's we can take a look at your vehicle, and complete the necessary jobs, because we're the best auto service company at the Lake of the Ozarks. Here is a list of tasks that need to be performed on your vehicle, and the time at which it needs to happen.

Check Every Month

To help make it easier to remember, pick a date that you'll remember, or a specific time of the month (like the third Saturday), and program your phone with the reminder. This will help you not only develop a routine, but also keep from forgetting it. These are the tasks you'll want to accomplish every month - even if you aren't replacing anything, just inspecting it and knowing what it's supposed to look like will go a long way in keeping your vehicle in good condition.

Oil Level 
If the oil is low, add more, and inspect for leaks.

Hoses
If your hoses are bulging, rotten or brittle they need to be replaced.

Belts
Are they worn, frayed or glazed? This is a sign that they need to be replaced.

Tire Pressure
Use a tire guage to see what level your tires are at, and then refer to your owner's manual to see where they should be. Some tires have different levels based on the weather.

Coolant or Antifreeze
Add the appropriate type depending on the weather, and check for leaks.

Air FilterIf this is dirty, it will need to be replaced.

Inspect TiresLook for damage, bulges or uneven wear.

Check Every Three Months

You can set a reminder on your phone to make these checks every three months, and then stick to it. If you picked the third weekend for your monthly checks, stick to this date and make plans to spend an extra couple minutes of your weekend inspecting your car. If you find problems in advance, you'll appreciate that they didn't get bad before having to replace them - or worse.

Oil and Oil Filter 
The oil and oil filter need to be replaced about every 3,000 miles. You can refer to your owners manual to verify. Bring your vehicle out to Bledsoe's Towing for your routine oil changes at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Windshield Washer Fluid
If it's low, add more. Also be sure to change it out depending on the season.

Power Steering Fluid
If this is low, you'll certainly want to add more - you'll notice if it's gone completely!

Transmission Fluid
If it's low, you'll want more to be added.

Battery Terminals & Cables
Are they corroded? This is a great time to clean them off and have them looking like new.

Lights
Checking yoru lights and signals on a routine basis will help keep you from having burnt out bulbs. Always remember to replace them in pairs.

Check Every Six Months

Finally, every six months you'll want to perform a few extra tests and checks to make sure a few neglected areas don't go unattended.

Wiper Blades
If these are brittle, worn, or smeary, you'll want to have new ones put on. While you're inspecting these, you can also take a rag and wipe them off. If there is any form of debris on your blades it can scratch your windshield.

Horn
If you haven't tried your horn out in a while, test it and make sure it's still working. You'd hate to not have that next time someone cuts you off!

Brakes
Have your brakes inspected, and make sure there is not unsual wear and tear on them. Of course, if your brakes aren't working at all, bring it out to Bledsoe's!

Spare Tire
If your spare tire isn't fully inflated, it's not going to do you much good when you're stranded. Check the air level and fill it if needed. If you do find yourself stranded, don't forget to call the best towing company at the Lake of the Ozarks - we would love to come rescue you.

Exhaust System

Your exhaust system needs to be inspected ever six months for rust, damage, or loose parts. While you may not know what you're looking for on your own, you can bring it out to us and we'll take a look.

Shocks
Oil seepage or wear are two of the things you'll want to have looked at every so often. This can save you some trouble in the long run.

Vehicle Maintenance in Camdenton, MO

Are you looking for a trustworthy company to take a look at your vehicle and check all of the necessary details? Here at Bledsoe's, we've been working on vehicles since 1964, and we would be honored to take a look at your car. Give us a call, or bring it and out let us work our magic on it.

Serving the Lake of the Ozark with all towing & automotive 

needs - big or small!

www.BledsoesTowing.com

322 South Business Route 5

Camdenton, Missouri 65020

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Safety at the Fuel Pump

Between work, school, and activities, we guess you probably spend quite a bit of time at the gas pump. While it may be a normal part of your routine, sometimes we forget how important it is to remain safe at the gas pump. After all, they're extremely flammable, and can be the cause of many injuries when you're not paying attention. At Bledsoe's Towing, we want you to stay safe around your vehicle, whether you're driving it, or caring for it. Here are a few things to remember next time you fill your tank.

Never Leave the Pump Unattended

This may seem like a no-brainer, but many times it can be an easy one to fall into. If it's either really hot or really cold, the first thing you want to do is jump back in that car and not have to stand out there. Or maybe you needed to run into the gas station and use the restroom. All of these seem like valid reasons, but if for any reason the pump malfunctions and doesn't stop pumping you could end up with fuel covering the side of your vehicle and spilling to the ground. This can be a hazard and a waste of money. If you're afraid of getting cold in the winter, just keep special "gas pump gloves" in your car, and if you need to go inside for any reason, do it after you're done filling the car up.

Turn Your Car Off

Sometimes you just want to get in and out, and it seems faster to not turn your car off. Plus, if you do,  the air conditioning is turned off, the heater is turned off, and you don't have a comfy place to run when you're done. Unfortunately, this is not safe for you or your car. Your gas tank is pressurized, and that pressure is what keeps your check engine light from coming on. If you open your gas tank while the vehicle is running, that causes your car to flash the light unnecessarily. Plus, a running vehicle with gas fumes provides more opportunities for a dangerous situation.

Don't Let Your Gas Tank Get Too Low

Not only is this a bad idea because it could put you in a dangerous situation - it's also bad for your fuel pump. When you get too low, you are risking running out of fuel while on the road, and in some cases, being too far away from a gas station to easily fill up. You'll then have to wait for our towing service at the Lake of the Ozarks to come out and bring you extra gas, which doesn't save you time (even though we are GLAD to come out and help you!).You're also stressing and straining your vehicle more than necessary. Come up with a routine that works best for you, maybe to fill up on your lunch break, or every Friday afternoon on your way home from school, or even when you hit the halfway mark.

Caring for Your Car

There are only a few things your car really needs to continue to run, and fuel is one of them. Whether you use gasoline, diesel, or another form of fuel, it's important to always keep the appropriate amount in your vehicle. Of course, should something happen, and you need the best vehicle maintenance team at the Lake of the Ozarks to come out and get you, we would be glad to. Our 24-hour towing service at the Lake of the Ozarks is always here to help!

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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4 Things To Know When Choosing A Mechanic

Choosing a mechanic shop doesn't have to be complicated, and we certainly expect that you'll come away with a wonderful experience. There are many who don't, and that's why we've provided the best auto mechanic shop at the Lake of the Ozarks, so you can trust that there is a company out there who cares about your experience even more than you do.

Ask Around

One of the best things you can do to find the best auto shop at the Lake of the Ozarks is to ask the people around you. You can ask co-workers, parents of your kid's friends, or friends on social media. When someone has had a great experience they love to share it.

Shop Before An Emergency

One of the best things you can do is find the auto shop before you actually need them. If you ask around and determine that you want to go to Bledsoe's Towing before you have a flat tire, go into the ditch, your car starts smoking, or you've locked your keys in your car, then you won't have to worry about who to call. Do yourself a favor right now by grabbing your phone, opening up your contacts, and creating a new one. Put the name Bledsoe's Towing, and then add our phone number, (573) 346-7050. Now you have the peace of mind of knowing that if you ever have an auto emergency, you can call the towing company that operates 24/7.

Don't Choose Your Mechanic Based On Price

While price can be a very strong factor in who you choose, it shouldn't be the top reason you choose an auto company. What you really want is quality, a service that gives you exactly what you need at the level of experience that keeps it working longer. Our mechanics are all well trained in their field and you can be certain that you and your car are in good hands. Our company has been providing quality service since 1964, and you can trust that when you bring your car to Bledsoe's Towing, you're bringing it to a family-friendly company that has been based at the Lake for over 50 years.

Check Online Reviews

While it's always better to get information right from the source, like your friends, sometimes online reviews can help you know whether to trust a company. Keep in mind, though, that while they can be a good depiction of the company, sometimes they are just a place for throwing tomatoes. If you have had a great experience with Bledsoe's Towing, we invite you to head over to our Facebook page and leave us a shining review! If you have questions or concerns about your experience, please, give us a call. We would love to address them personally and make the situation better!

Auto Shop at the Lake of the Ozarks

Are you looking for the best car mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks? We would like to invite you to give us a call and let us help you get back on the road. From minor maintenance needs to major incidents like needing a tow, we're here for you. Don't forget to follow our social media channels for great information on taking care of your vehicle and more!

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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The Ins and Outs of Your Engine

Have you ever been curious about what exactly happens when you start your car? Or how your car even propels you down the highway as you head to work in the morning? At Bledsoe's Towing, we take great pride in keeping your engine running smoothly and correctly from the time you start your car in the morning to the time you shut it down at night. We have been the best car mechanics at the Lake of the Ozarks for over fifty years, and we aim to continue providing the same quality work you've loved every since. Because knowledge is power, we wanted to give you a little inside knowledge about how your engine works so that you can accurately describe problems that may arise or even just know for fun facts around the dinner table!

First Things First

While you may have thought that the description of a vehicle was that it is just a metal box with wheels, from a scientific point of view it's really an energy converter. The machine that you know as your car releases energy that is locked in a fuel, like gasoline, and then turns it into mechanical energy which is what causes your wheels to turn and you to move down the road.

Many moving vehicles are powered by fuels that are made from petroleum. The "crude oil" became an important source of energy during the 20th century, and while there are a few other ways to power a vehicle, this one remains the most prominent.

How Does Our Fuel Power Our Vehicle?

Petroleum fuels are made from hydrocarbons, which are mainly carbon and hydrogen atoms - with a few other elements.While you commonly burn hydrocarbons to make useful energy, like wood, paper or coal in your fireplace, grill, or fire pit, these are uncontrolled sources of energy.  While the combustion does occur from the hydrocarbons releasing energy, in a camp fire it can be hard to control that energy because the heat shoots off in all different directions.

In your car, those hydrocarbons are burned in closed containers that capture most of the heat energy the fuel releases, and then it turns it into a mechanical energy that can drive your car.

What Are the Main Parts of A Car Engine

Now that we know how a car engine is powered, it's time to learn some more about what actually happens when it's powered. The closed containers we mentioned that capture the energy are known as cylinders. In most cars, you'll find four cylinders (also know as a four stroke engine) but in many powerful cars, you'll find six or even eight. The cylinders are sealed shut, except for two valves that open and close like a bicycle pump. There are pistons (think of them like plungers) that slide up and down inside the cylinders. There is an inlet valve that allows fuel and air to enter the cylinder from the carburetor and the outlet valve that lets the exhaust gasses back out. There are also spark plugs (you may have heard this term at one point from your Lake of the Ozarks car mechanic), and these are electrically controlled devices that make a spark and cause the fuel to catch fire. At the bottom of the cylinder, you'll find a piston which is attached to a crankshaft, and this powers the car's gearbox which is what drives the wheels.

Whew! Did you catch all of that? If you need a visual to help you understand what happens, this video can give you a pretty good idea of how this inside of your engine works.

Engine Repair at the Lake of the Ozarks

After seeing all of the moving parts that go into JUST your engine, now you can see why it's so important to have an expert work on your car. While it may seem like basic science there are so many small details that can go wrong, and you want a mechanic who not only knows how your car works but knows how to deduct what could actually be happening to it. If you think that there could be something wrong with your engine, or it's just not making the right sound, bring it out! We'd love to have one of our skilled Lake of the Ozarks car mechanics take a look and help you solve the mystery!

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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Tips for Rainy Weather Driving

While summer is commonly known for the high heat indexes, and making sure that you don't lock your pets and kids in a hot car, it can also be known for random and severe thunderstorms. Rain always provides an element of surprise, as with any weather changes. As the best automotive shop at the Lake of the Ozarks, we want to make sure that you and your car stay safe on the road through every season, rain or shine. Here are a few things to remember when a sudden storm pops up.

Don't Use Cruise Control

While cruise control may seem harmless in the rain, it removes the control you have over driving, especially on roads that may be dangerous. Excess water on the road can a loss of traction, and when you aren't correcting for it as it happens by letting off the accelerator, you could find yourself somewhere you didn't want to be. Remember that if something unexpected does happen, be sure to call the best towing company at the Lake of the Ozarks.

Keep Both Hands on the Wheel

If there are large gusts of wind or chances of hydroplaning, you'll want to have both hands on the wheel and be entirely focused on what's happening. If you are driving a large vehicle or towing a trailer, this is especially important.

Treat Your Windshield

It's always a good idea to use a windshield protecting formula on a regular basis so when it does rain cats and dogs you are prepared and can easily see. There are many products on the market that are made for keeping your windshield waterproof, and they can make driving in the rain a lot safer. Here is a video to show you the difference between having a rain shield product and not.

Turn Your Headlights On

It is Missouri law to turn on your headlights when your windshield wipers are required. While you may feel like you can see your surroundings and that your headlights aren't necessary, having your lights on does make it easier for other people to see you. When the weather is dark, dreary, cloudy or even foggy, this can make a huge difference in visibility for others seeing you.

Give Other Vehicles More Space

While it's important to give other vehicles plenty of space on a beautiful day, it's also incredibly important when the weather is somewhat dangerous. The Missouri Driving Guide from the Department of Revenue says that you should follow the Three Second Rule (and no...this is not the same rule you follow when you drop food on the floor!)

"THREE SECOND RULE
A good way to measure your safe following distance is to use the “three second rule.” Choose an object near the road ahead, like a sign or telephone pole. As the vehicle ahead of you passes it, count slowly, “One thousand one, one thousand two, one thousand three.” If you reach the object before you finish counting, you are too close to the vehicle ahead."

When driving in rainy weather, add one or two more seconds to that to create a safe space between you and the car ahead.

The Best Car Maintenance at the Lake of The Ozarks

No matter what the weather conditions, accidents can happen, even if you are a safe driver. At Bledsoe's Towing, we want to keep you on the road longer, and that starts with safe driving practices. If, however, you do find yourself in a position where you need a car mechanic at the Lake of the Ozarks, we would be glad to help you fix the problems and get back on the road!

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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Twitter

LinkedIn

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