Cleaning out the Pipes
Scott Clayton • October 14, 2025
Got a funny story for you...
When I was a kid we had just moved into a new house (new to us). Fall had come so we built a fire in the fireplace. Dad was wondering when the last time the chimney was cleaned out; he was concerned about a chimney fire. I asked, "How do you know if you have a chimney fire?" He said, it makes a sound. Because there was a strange noise coming from the fireplace, I asked, "What does a chimney fire sound like?"
In unison, both of my parents said, "Like that! It sounded like a mini hurricane was in the chimney.
We were new neighbors and we had to call the Fire Department. So embarrassing, especially for my parents.
DON'T FORGET TO CLEAN YOUR CHIMNEY!
This real estate agent needed some Pre-Sale work done. Which included re-attaching a kitchen cabinet panel, touch up painting, install a new toilet handle and install new soft close hinges on a kitchen cabinet door. I also attempted to fix a leaky gutter. However, with a lack of equipment and time, I was unsuccessful.
It's getting cooler outside and thus the air inside tires feels the same thing. So the air inside your tires contracts, lowering the pressure, which can cause uneven tire wear (wearing more on the outsides of the tire than the middle) and can cause a slight decrease in miles per gallon (MPG). How do you know what your recommended tire pressure should be? Check the driver's door jamb, if it's not there, check the back side of the fuel door. I don't think you would call a Handyman for this. But if I was already there, it is something I could easily do for you.
Maintenance is the Key...
Getting the Laurel Hedge trimmed up for the winter...
Since the Brakes and the Clutch share the same reservoir, it doesn't any sense to skip on the Clutch.. .
It was time for a new battery. In a certain price category all the batteries seem to have the same manufacturer. I went with the Walmart brand (Everstart), because of price (if all them are the same), and one extra year of warranty over the matching price competitor. I filled the Brake Lines with a pressure-system for the first time. I like it! It's a lot quieter than the vacuum-system. I'm going to finish off with the old-school two person method.
Image Above: Un-modified pad on the left. Modified pad, for wear sensor, on the right. This Porsche owner bought a complete performance brake kit from a reputable online store. The brake pads that come in the kit don't have holes for the new wear sensors (also in the kit) because they are a crossover pad that bridges the gap between Autocross and Daily Driving. I think it is assumed that when it comes to performance pads and performance driving, you always have your eyes on wear items. Either by removing the wheels for new/different tires, or by routine checks and cleaning. Since this Porsche owner is going to be driving mostly on Daily Driver's side of the performance spectrum; I am drilling holes in all eight break pads for the new wear sensors.
Pictures of trees...
Home Adjustments: Versatile Handyman for Autos