How Much Does an Idler Pulley Replacement Cost?

The idler pulley is a part responsible for guiding and maintaining the vehicle’s tension with the drive belt or as some people know it as — the serpentine belt — the part responsible for connecting the engine to other components such as the power steering, water pump, A/C compressor and alternator.  As this power is transferred from the engine via the drive belt, the belt, as it moves, will be held in place by the pulley.

As this part degrades over time, your vehicle will either start to overheat or you may notice your car won’t run as it should.  If it breaks completely, then the drive belt will not work at all, unfortunately meaning your car won’t run at all.

“Something’s not right here” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by joannapoe

The average idler pulley replacement cost

The cost to replace the idler pulley, as with any car repair, will depend on the vehicle you drive, your geographical location and the dealer/mechanic you choose.  From our research, the costs of replacing this part on its own is almost the same, regardless of the vehicle you drive, with the average professional cost, including the parts, ranging from $90 to $150.

The parts, on average, can cost anywhere from $25 to $45, whereas labor can take about an hour, meaning you will have to pay the shop minimum, which is often $65 to $100+.  Granted, these prices can be much higher for a luxury branded car.

In some cases, the serpentine belt/tensioner and/or bearings may be replaced at the same time, often increasing the price $100 to $150.

RepairPal.com notes the average cost of labor will range anywhere from $77 to $186, whereas the parts can cost $42 to $86.

At AutoZone, for instance, a complete kit, including the idler pulley, , but the idler pulley on its own will cost $17 to $35+.  The best sellers on Amazon retail for about $15 to $35.

Faulty idler pulley symptoms

Odd noises are coming from the engine such as a chirping-like or grinding noise from the front side of the engine.  In this case, as the pulley wears out, the surface will rub against the belt, causing the belt to squeal as its turning.

The “check engine” or a warning light illuminates on your dashboard.

A loss of power steering as the drive belt is no longer able to transfer power.

The car is overheating.

Visually inspecting the pulley, it will show signs of wear, often with scoring marks due to the contact with the belt over time.

The repair and diagnosis process

To confirm the part is, indeed, the problem, the mechanic will first physically inspect the part by loosening the drive belt to relieve it of its tension.  Once relived, the pulley will be turned manually to see if there is any vibration, looseness, grinding-like noises and/resistance.  If the machanic notes any of these symptoms, then the part is more than likely to blame.

When replacing the part, the entire pulley system will be inspected first to make sure the idler pulley is the issue.  In most cases, a mechanic will want to play things safe and replace the belt tensioners as well.  If the entire drive belt is broken or faulty, then all of the pulleys and its components will be replaced as well.

When does the idler pulley need to be replaced?

The pulleys tend to last quite some time, but the longevity will greatly depend on the operating environment.  In most cases, the part can last up to 100,000 without fail.

What does an idler pulley do?

This part is designed to take up any slack and change in the direction of the transmission, proving a clutching-like action.  These rollers do not have or produce any mechanical action, nor does the part transmit any power — it’s simply a part which leads a chain around a bend or takes up any slack in the drive.  Being used for a variety of ways, the part can provide the correct tension for th driving belt by moving the tensioner idler, route the belt around a larger fraction of some pulleys and/or route the belt away from other surfaces.  In short, the idlers are simply subordinate pulleys which is able to create a better working system.

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How Much Does a Green Cheek Conure Cost?

The green cheek conure (Pyrrhura mollinae), known to be highly inquisitive, bold and engaging, can be very playful and affection when compared other types of conures.

“natureparrots” (CC BY 2.0) by crazyanimal

How much does it cost to buy a green cheek conure?

The cost of a green cheek conure will greatly depend on the breeder you purchase from, the age of the bird, the quality, colors/mutations and geographical location of the breeder.  From what we researched, the average cost of a high-quality bird tends to be inside the $300 to the $600 range for an odd mutation but you could find birds as little as $125.  For this price, you should expect a weaned and ready to come home bird for the average owner.

While the bird can live fine on its own, breeders and experts often recommend pairs to help one bond with one another.  A green conure should never be housed with other types of birds.

At BirdBreeders.com, for instance, there was close to 30 active listings at the time of this publishing, with prices ranging anywhere from $950 for a tame baby to as little as $250 for a weaned baby from a breeder in North Carolina.

LuckyFeathers.com, a professional bird breeder with more than 30 years of breeding ethics, noted his prices on his official price sheet.  According to the “sold babies” subpage, the prices ranged anywhere from $250 to $300, with shipping an additional $59.

The extra costs to budget for

Diet and feeding

A well-balanced diet will consist of 60 percent specialized pellets, with the remaining consisting of fresh vegetables, fruits and a few fortified seeds.  Avoid feeding any bird avocado, fruit seeds, anything with caffeine, sugar, high-fat treats, chocolate or alcohol as this can cause serious health problems in the future.  All fruits and vegetables should remain fresh and should be discarded if the conure doesn’t consume after two to three hours.

As with any bird, the water will need to be changed daily and should be available at all times.

While treats are okay, try to limit it to 5 to 10 percent of its diet.

Housing requirements

Green cheek conures will acclimate the best in 65 to 80 Fahrenheit, but even with comfortable temperatures, it’s best to avoid extreme temperature changes.  All housing units should be placed off the floor in a well-lit area away from any vents.

A habitat, while the larger the better, should be, at a minimum, 24″W x 24″D x 30″H, with metal bars spaced no greater than ½” to ¾” apart, according to this Petco care sheet.

Inside the cage should be a variety of perches, at least nine inches longer.  These perches help with physical activity and can even help prevent arthritis in the future.

Like perches, a variety of toys should be included as they like to chew and keep stimulated throughout the day.  These toys and perches should not contain any lead, zinc, galvanized parts and/or lead-based paints as this can cause serious medical issues for the bird.

On the bottom of the cage should include a metal grate, which is designed to collect any bird droppings to help avoid any contamination with the bird’s food and water.  Line this metal grate with a substrate to allow for easy cleaning.

Once a week, the habitat and all of its inclusions, such as the perches, should be cleaned with a 3% bleach solution and all of the substrate in the metal grate should be replaced as well.  Pay close attention to all of the toys and perches as they should be replaced when they start to look tattered.

Behavior

Green cheek conures are considered to be very social birds and enjoy as much human interaction as possible.

Signs of a healthy conure

Alert, active and appears to be very sociable

Eats and drinks throughout the day

All of its body, including the beaks, legs and feathers, appears to be in a healthy condition

The feathers, when inspected closely, should be smooth to the touch and groomed in appearance

Red flags to look out for

The beak, when examined, looks either swollen and/or has some sort of accumulation buildup

The feathers appear to be abnormal, looking either fluffed, soiled or plucked

No activity such as sitting on the floor of the cage, appearing to be depressed

A coughing and/or wheezing-like sound when making a noise

Stool has a runny and/or an odd color to it

Hopping on one foot while moving

A discharge coming from either the eyes or nose

Common health conditions

Chlamydiosis – Symptoms include appetite loss, discharge, green feces and/or fluffed feathers.

Diarrhea – The stool won’t appear formed, often due to parasites or from multiple causes.

Feather Plucking – Happens when the bird is either bored, has a poor diet and/or is related to an unknown illness.

Polyoma Virus – Symptoms may include weight loss, anorexia and/or lethargy.

Green cheek conures talk – how do they sound?

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How Much Does the Grand Canyon Skywalk Cost?

The Grand Canyon Skywalk, located in the Grand Canyon West, attracts close to 700,000 guests a year.

Opened in 2007, the cantilevered glass-bottomed bridge appeals to adrenaline seekers, offering a once in a lifetime experience.

“Grand Canyon Skywalk – Peering Over” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by Viator.com

How much does a Grand Canyon Skywalk ticket cost?

As the Grand Canyon Skywalk can be tied in with a package or as an add-on with some tours, the costs of the skywalk admission will greatly vary depending on how you plan on visiting the Grand Canyon.  For example, if you were to purchase a ticket to walk the skywalk, eat a meal, take a photo with tribal members and receive an official visitation certificate, then the costs, as of 2018, would be $82.37, according to GrandCanyonWest.com.

If you want to just walk the skywalk and nothing else, the costs would be $21.65 per person; however, you must purchase the Hualapai Legacy entry package at the welcome center — another $49.92 — in order to take advantage of this price, bringing the grand total to $71.57 per person.  From our research, this is the cheapest price you can take advantage of without any discounts and/or promotions.

What is the Grand Canyon Skywalk?

Being one of the newest attractions, opening in March of 2007, the plexiglass floor extends 70 feet over the edge of the Grand Canyon’s west rim, allowing visitors to look 4,000 feet into the canyon’s floor.  The skywalk is 10 feet wide and the glass walls range anywhere from four to six feet high, just high enough to meet all safety code regulations.   Only 120 will people will be allowed on the bridge at one time and it is on a first come, first serve basis.  In order to avoid slipping, visitors will need to wear shoe covers while on the bridge.

The extra costs to budget for

As we mention below, you will not be able to take your camera out on the skywalk.  If you want to take advantage of a professional photo, the costs are said to be an additional $25 or so.

Additional package add-ons may be considered, including mechanical bull rides ($5~), horseback rides ($10 to $80~), stagecoach rides ($16) and/or an overnight stay the Hualapai Ranch ($140~).  One-day rafting tours, helicopter rides and flights are available as well.

Tips to know

Grand Canyon West is not part of the Grand Canyon National Park and is solely owned and operated by the Hualapai Tribe.  In order to even enter the skywalk area, the tribe will collect an entrance fee of $49.92 a person to access and any National Park-related pass will not apply here.  Once past the entry point, no private vehicles are allowed to proceed past the entrance and all visitors must board the free shuttle service to view all of the attractions within the area.  When inside the welcome center, this is the time when you meet with a tour operator and discuss which package you want to take advantage of for the day.

Cameras and personal property will not be allowed on the skywalk.  Before entering the area, all visitors will be asked to place any personal belongings inside of the locker.  Those who want a photograph can take advantage of one of the many professional photographers who are on site to take your picture, which are later available for a fee.

The best time to visit the skywalk, as per the GrandCanyon.net, is from the late fall to the spring when the daytime temperatures are comfortable, ranging from the low-to-mid 60s to mid-90s, with a majority of the days in the full sun.  While the skywalk is open during the summer months, some guests may find the temperatures uncomfortable due to the above 100-degree temperatures.

Many visitors are under the impression the skywalk is close to Grand Canyon Village, which isn’t the case as it much further.  You can see how far the skywalk is by looking at this map.  From Las Vegas, plan on spending at least three hours getting here.

The reviews – is it worth it?

Be very wary of the reviews as many people, even though the pictures look amazing, claim it’s a big rip off.  , for instance, has more than 4,000+ reviews, with a good majority claiming the price isn’t worth it, especially if you didn’t research the price ahead of time.  It’s important to know, that in order to get here, you will travel 100+ miles from Las Vegas, a good 25% of it being on a slow-moving, very beat up dirt road.  There’s no cell service, no services and no protection from the sun for at least 70 of these 100 miles if coming from Vegas.  If you do know the prices you will pay ahead of time and you know what to expect from the trip, then you may not be as disappointed.

While the Grand Canyon is a magnificent wonder of the world, almost everyone recommends taking the time to visit the actual National Park where you pay a fraction of the skywalk.

The Grand Canyon Skywalk looking down

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How Much Does a Fuel Filter Replacement Cost?

The fuel filter, as with any filter, will remove any unwanted debris.  In the case of a car, this filter is responsible for remove any of this debris from entering the fuel line, preventing any unwanted damage.

In general, a fuel filter will need to be replaced at least once per year, but a higher mileage car may need it replaced more often than average.  Mechanics recommend replacing it every 40,000 to 80,000 miles.

“JDM B16A 11” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by 3ndymion!!!

Fuel filter replacement cost

The average cost of a fuel filter replacement is pretty standard across the board from what we researched.  For most cars, a local mechanic or dealer will charge anywhere from $50 to $150, including parts and labor, but if you were to do it your on your own, you could purchase the appropriate parts for as little as $15 to $55, depending on the vehicle you drive.  Often done with annual service for most vehicles, the cost of the fuel filter will be tied into the entire package cost.  In general, most technicians will recommend changing your fuel filter annually to maintain the health of your engine.

In some of the newer cars, do keep in mind that the fuel filter is part of the fuel pump module and the filter itself cannot be replaced on its own.

At Pep Boys, for instance, they claim their fuel filter replacement services start at $79.99, according to their official price sheet.

At Jiffy Lube, when we reached out to our local location, they stated it would cost about $65 to $100+ to replace the fuel filter, depending on the car you drive.

As for just the parts, as mentioned, you’re looking at $10 to $40. At Advance Auto Parts, most of the premium filters were in the , while AutoZone had filters .

What is a fuel filter?

The role of a fuel filter, as mentioned, is designed to help trap any massive bits of debris/fuel before it can even reach the fuel lines and engine.  If any of these larger particles were able to make its way into the engine, it could create severe damage to the engine as it can plug the fuel injectors, which would stop the cylinder from getting the conventional amount of fuel, ultimately leading to an injector replacement.

As there are many varieties of fuel delivery arrangements on vehicles today, the fuel filters will vary from one car to the next. A  carburetor fueled engine, for instance, will use a vacuum to help suck the fuel into the engine while using low pressure.  As the fuel passes through the rubber hoses, this type of fuel filter, usually made from plastic or metal, will have both an inlet and outlet tube, allowing the fuel to pass through while being filtered.  As for an electronic fuel injection, the fuel is squirted into every cylinder via the injectors with high pressure.  Because of this, the filters will be created from metal to stop it from crumbling down over time.

The fuel filter replacement process

Before the fuel filter is even removed, the pressure will first be relieved from the fuel line by disabling the fuel pump.  To disable the fuel pump, this will be done by removing both the fuel pump hose and the fuse box.

Once the pressure has been cut in the fuel lines, the lines will be disconnected from the engine to access the fuel filter.

The filter, now exposed, will be compared to a new one to see how dirty it is. Like any filter, the dirtier it is, the less efficient it will be.  At this time, the mechanic will determine if the filter needs to be replaced.  As mentioned, if it has been longer than 12-24 months, then a mechanic will replace it for safety reasons.

With the new filter, the old one will be taken out and the new one will be inserted in its place, ensuring the arrows are pointing the right direction of the proper flow.

Once fitted, the fuel lines will be reattached and the fuel pump fuse and pump will be re-installed.

The car will now be started and the mechanic will investigate the new filter for any leaks.

How to save on a fuel filter repair

Replacing a fuel filter, believe it or not, actually isn’t that hard at all.  In fact, even if you do not have much in terms of car repair experience, you can do the job with ease as long as you follow a how-to video, which we will post below.  The parts, as mentioned, should cost you less than $30 and will take less than an hour to replace.  For instance, on Amazon, we found countless universal parts for less than $25.  Simply refer to your owners manual or search online to make sure you’re buying the right filter.  If you really want to save, consider purchasing an aftermarket part rather than an OEM part to save a few more dollars.

How to tell if fuel filter is bad

Hard start – A dirty fuel filter could lead to a hard start as the fuel flow is constricted.  This isn’t always the case, though, as spark plugs and your carburetor could cause a hard start as well.

Hesitating engine – When you press down on the gas, if you notice the engine is hesitating, then it could be a sign the fuel filter is clogged.  When clogged, the filter will restrict the flow of gas, meaning the abnormal combustion will reduce the car’s power and responsiveness.

Stalling out – As your engine will need a constant supply of fuel, it will not run efficiently if it becomes dirty or even clogged.  Even with the slightest clog, the car can stall as, again the flow of gas will be restricted.

Won’t start – In order for the car to start, it will need both a mixture of gasoline and air to fire up.  If there’s no gas coming through, then the failure to start could mean your fuel filter is clogged.  However, this isn’t always the case as the problem may rely upon the battery or ignition.

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How Much Does a Fuel Pump Replacement Cost?

The fuel pump is responsible for delivering the right amount of fuel at a high enough pressure from the fuel tank to the vehicle’s fuel injectors.

In modern-day vehicles, the fuel pump uses an electrical motor which drives a fuel pump, located either inside or outside of the fuel tank.  Regardless of this location, the fuel is absorbed from the tank and eventually pushed through the fuel line to the filter and lastly, to the fuel injectors.

“Fuel pump” (CC BY-SA 2.0) by lw5315us

Fuel pump replacement cost

The cost of replacing a fuel pump will greatly depend on the vehicle you drive, your geographical location, where it’s located and the mechanic/dealer you use.  As all cars vary with the setup and the cost of parts vary as well, the costs, from what we researched, could range anywhere from $550 to more than $900 for a professional mechanic to fix the faulty fuel pump.  The labor time all depends on how easy it is to access and remove the fuel pump from your vehicle.  If the pump is located inside the gas tank, then the mechanic will have to spend more time than accessing the part via the car’s trunk.

We scoured the web and researched many makes and models to see what other car owners paid for their car repair, with the average cost paid listed in our table below:

As for just the parts, without any professional help, the costs can range anywhere from $135 to more than $400 for an OEM part, again, depending on the vehicle you drive.

BuyAutoParts.com, for instance, created a handy chart, noting the price of parts if you were to purchase through their store.

The universal fuel pump parts at AutoZone .

The symptoms of a bad fuel pump

In a majority of the cases, a leak and/or whining noise will come from the fuel pump, often, a sign of malfunction.

If the pump fails, it will not create enough pressure, essentially resulting in a loss of engine power.  While the car will accelerate as it should, it will begin to jerk about and then return to the normal acceleration pattern.

Also, in some cases, the “check engine” light may illuminate if a problem persists.  Oftentimes, the OBD code related to a faulty fuel pump can be P0001, P0002 and P0003.

After driving for 10 to 15 minutes, you may feel a “sputtering-like” feeling coming from the fuel pump area.  This feeling is usually caused when the pump fails to provide a consistent stream of fuel to the engine.

The car’s temperature might rise to above-average levels.  If this were to happen, this may mean the fuel pump motor is having problems, especially if the car continues to stall.

Am I able to drive with a bad fuel pump?

As you can see in the symptoms section, a fuel pump can fail for a few reasons.  In a lot of cases, the car will not be able to start due to lack of pressure, which, if this were the case, you won’t be able to drive, even if you wanted to.  Another common problem may lead to either a stalled engine or even failure, which, as you can imagine, can lead to a very dangerous scenario as the last thing you want to have happen is finding yourself stalled out in rush hour traffic.  While the car, even in this scenario, can be driven, you will want to attempt to drive it to a mechanic as soon as possible to have the part repaired.

The repair process

Even before a mechanic considers working a fuel pump, he or she will also check the filters, fuel pump relays, fuel pickups and electrical connectors to make sure they are all in good working order.  For example, YourMechanic.com notes a clogged fuel filter can restrict the flow, often causing the same symptoms as a fuel pump.

Before working on the fuel pump, the technician will disconnect the battery to risk the chance of fire.  If the fuel pump is found in the fuel tank, then there’s usually an access cover which can be removed to help access the pump.  Once the access cover is removed, the mechanic can replace both the pump and the pre-pump filter screen.  In some cases, depending on the vehicle setup, the fuel will be emptied before the panel is even removed.  If the pump is located externally, usually near the trunk line or rear seat, then the fuel lines will be disconnected and the pump will be removed and then replaced with a new one in reverse order.  After replacement, the car will be started and the mechanic will make sure no fuel leaks are noticeable.

The labor times, as we mentioned earlier, will greatly depend on the vehicle’s setup as all vehicles are not created equally.  Some cars, if the part is readily accessible, it could take as little as two hours to perform the job, whereas a complex spot could increase the labor time by more than seven hours.

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How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Fuel Tank?

The fuel tank, responsible for storing the vehicle’s fuel, is mounted near the bottom of most vehicles.

This tank is filled with fuel via its fill spout, which essentially connects to the fuel tank filler neck equipped with either a release or check valve, allowing the fuel to go inside of the tank and replace any air inside.  When no air is left, the pressure inside sends a signal to the fuel pump to stop sending fuel.  As the fuel fills, the float, which reads the levels, will adjust and send the fuel level signals to your dashboard.

“Pumping gas” (CC BY 2.0) by futureatlas.com

Car fuel tank replacement cost

The cost of replacing a car’s fuel tank will depend on the car you drive and the mechanic/dealer you take it to.  From our research, if you were to hire a professional, the costs, including parts, will range anywhere from as little as $250 to more than $700 to replace just the tank.  The price can be as high as $1,000 if the mechanic were to replace the fuel tank with a new pump and sending unit. 

Failure rates, most of the time, will greatly vary on your environmental factors as salt, sand, humidity and water can all impact a fuel tank, eventually leading to some sort of corroding.  While many vehicles today use a plastic tank, the integrated components can still fail.  The fuel tank on its own, without any professional labor, can cost about $100 to $300 for just the part and another three hours for labor, which depending on the local average, can be another $300+.

At Advance Auto Parts, for example, the top-selling steel fuel tanks .   The fuel tank part, in general, will depend on the material and the manufacturer.  Tanks, according to , are commonly made of plastic, polyethylene, metal, polyurethane, steel, and galvanized steel.  Fuel tanks made from steel and metal are going to cost less than one made from plastic or polyurethane.

The symptoms of a bad fuel tank

In most cases, the “check engine” light will almost always turn on if there’s a failed EVAP system test.  This trouble code, when read by an auto parts store or mechanic, will signify the fuel tank itself is, indeed, the problem.

In some vehicles, a slight “popping” sound can be heard when the leak detection pump, located inside of the tank, continuously tries to pressurize the tank but is unable to.

A fuel tank leak, if present, can cause a rough idle, difficulty starting the engine and/or noticeable poor fuel mileage.

Even if a fuel tank has rusted or corroded on the inside, RepairPal notes you won’t be able to see this damage, if present, from the outside of the tank.  As the fuel tank rusts, flakes or related debris will fall into the fuel, causing the problems mentioned prior.

Can I drive when I have a bad fuel tank?

It’s not a good idea to drive if you assume you have a faulty fuel tank.  Why?  The debris, corrosion or rust, which can fall into the tank, will make it way further into the vehicle’s fuel delivery system, causing even more costly problems if you were to continue to drive.  Until the fuel can be filtered, avoid driving at all expense.

Diagnosing the problem

To detect a leak in the fuel tank, a mechanic will first close the purge and vent valve and monitor it with a tool known as a fuel tank pressure sensor.  While reading the results, if the pressure drops, even when both valves are closed, this will mean there is a leak in the system.  If the pressure holds the way it should, then it means the system doesn’t have a leak and the next step is often checking the fuel sensor and valves to see if these parts are in working order.

The repair process

Once the fuel tank is confirmed as the problem part in question, the car will be hoisted and the fuel pump fuse will be removed.  When removed, the engine will be started to help relieve any tank and fuel system pressure and the battery cable will be disconnected.

Placing a container beneath the tank, the mechanic will then start draining the tank, usually using a siphon pump.  Once the tank is fully drained, the fuel lines, if necessary, will be removed.

When the tank is deemed as empty as it can be, all of the components, including the old fuel tank, hoses, clamps, straps, bolts, screws and anything else connected to the tank, will be removed to free the fuel tank from the vehicle’s undercarriage.  While all vehicles are somewhat the same in the part setup, some models, for example, may need the suspension dropped in order to remove the tank because it is too high.

Once the fuel tank is freed, the new replacement tank will be installed in reverse order with all of its components in reverse order.

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How Much Does a Fuel Level Sensor Repair Cost?

The fuel level sending unit, located inside of the fuel tank, will send your vehicle a constant signal indicating how much gasoline is left in the tank.

If this sensor were to fail, then, unfortunately, you would have no clue how much gasoline is left.

“2007 Porsche Boxster S” (CC BY 2.0) by bshamblen

Fuel level sensor repair cost

The cost of a fuel level sensor repair will greatly depend on the vehicle you drive, your geographical location and the mechanic/dealer you choose.  From our research, the average professional costs, including all parts, will cost anywhere from $250 to $650.  The parts, on average, can cost $80 to $400, while labor, seeing it’s a relatively quick repair, can cost $80 to $250.  In most cases, a technician will want to replace the fuel pump as this part often needs to be removed in order to replace the level sensor.

At AutoZone, for instance, the top-selling fuel level sensors .

CarComplaints.com, a popular website where car owners can look at the most popular issues with certain makes and models, noted a few models which had fuel level sensor issues.  The 2008 Hyundai Santa Fe, for instance, had more than 30 complaints, with the average repair reported being $595.  The GMC Envoy, another problematic car, had 10+ complaints, with the average repair reported being $150.

How does the fuel level sensor work?

In most cars today, this part will have a mechanical arm-like device which will extend from the top of the tank, acting like a float you would see inside of your toilet tank.  As the fuel fills up your tank, the float moves up, increasing the needle on your dashboard display.  If this float reaches a low enough level, then the dreaded “low fuel” light will turn on.

The symptoms of a bad fuel level sensors

While a vehicle can be driven just fine without a working fuel sensor, it can be hard to “gauge” how much fuel is left in the tank, leaving most people to either fill up when they feel it’s right or jotting the down the mileage every time after a fillup.  When a unit fails, the fuel gauge will often cease to function properly or in some vehicles, the “check engine” light will illuminate, which will send an OBD code indicating something is wrong with the sensor.

How a failing sensor is diagnosed

In most cases, spotting a failed fuel level sensor is relatively easy.  To diagnose, the technician will either read the OBD code if the “check engine” light is on and/or the voltage from the fuel sending unit will be compared to the actual specifications.  These readings, if off, can indicate failure has occurred, according to RepairPal.com.

The repair process

Once the fuel level sensor is confirmed as the faulty part, the sensor will then be removed from inside of the fuel tank.  In most vehicles, this is done by removing the service access panel, which is beneath the trunk lining or near the backseat, but this isn’t always the case as some cars may need the entire fuel tank removed in order to access the sensor inside.  When the fuel tank has been accessed and/or removed, the fuel level sensor is then disconnected from the tank and electrical wiring and a new sensor and oftentimes, a new pump will be inserted as well.

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How Much Does an Alaskan King Bed Cost?

When most of us think of a bed size, there’s good chance you think of the most common ones — twin, full, queen and King.

While these do tend to be the most popular choices, did you know yet another size exists — the Alaskan King bed?

One of the largest sizes available on the market, the Alaskan King measures nine feet wide by nine feet long.  To envision this, it’s more than a queen and twin pushed together.

“Saferest Mattress Protector” (CC BY 2.0) by The Sleep Judge

How much does an Alaskan King bed mattress cost?

The cost of an Alaskan King bed, as with any bed, will greatly depend on the brand and where you purchase it from.  With very limited choices online, it was very hard to find prices as very few mattress/furniture retailers sold this size, either due to the lack of demand and/or limited availability.  We were able to talk with one retailer that stated that you could custom order this type of bed, but the costs, depending on the quality and brand you did choose, as mentioned, could cost as little as $750 for an economically sized mattress to as much as $5,000+ for a TempurPedic-like bed.  This is often the case as with any mattress purchase, and these prices would not include the costs of the bed frame.

In conclusion, there’s a 99% chance you will need to customize this mattress size as you will not find one online or via a local retailer.

On Reddit.com, members discussed the costs of an Alaskan King bed and most never heard of one before, but like what we found out, it would be a customized job due to the larger-than-average size.  The top response stated that companies such as McCrosky Mattress in Calfornia could do this as well as smaller manufacturers, but if you were to want a name brand like Serta or Sealy, then there’s a good chance they would not be able to accommodate your request.  In the end, they came to the conclusion that the costs could be all over the place, ranging from as little as $500 to more than $10,000.

The Portland Mattress Makers, for instance, could create a custom sized mattress matching that of an Alaskan King bed size.  According to their official pricing page, the price of a custom sized mattress is straightforward, with the costs based on the width of the mattress and if you were to go one size higher, then you would add another $150.  Aside from the mattress, you would need to factor in the box springs as well, which could cost more than $500+

The extra costs to think about

Due to the larger-than-average size, you still need to factor in the bed frame, box spring if it isn’t included in the initial purchase and the bed sheets/comforter as most of the time, these may need to be custom ordered as well.  All of these costs, just like the mattress, will greatly depend on the quality, brand and where you purchase it from.  It’s safe to double or even triple your mattress cost to get a rough idea of what you’re paying for a total bed set.

Alaskan King bed size chart

Alaskan King bed vs California King

The main difference between an Alaskan King and California-sized mattress will be the size.  As noted in the graphic above, a California King will measure 72 inches by 84 inches, whereas an Alaskan King will measure 108 inches by 108 inches.

Another difference to be noted will be the manufacturer.  As a California King is fairly common, you can readily find it online and in a local mattress store, whereas an Alaskan King will need to be specially ordered almost 99 percent of the time unless you purchase it on a third-party market.

Due to an Alaskan King having to be special ordered, the price, on average, can be up to 50% more when compared to the California King, even if it were made from the same materials.

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How Much Does an Idler Arm Replacement Cost?

The idler arm of the car, located on the passenger side of the frame rail opposite of the Pitman arm, consists of the ball joint, an arm and the pivot bushing.  This part connects to the steering box to the center link, which allows the vehicle’s wheels to rotate and control the passenger side steering.  If this part was faulty, then the car will often pull to one side, a loud noise while turning may be heard or one tire may be more worn out than another.

As time goes on, as with any car part, it will begin to wear over time.

“Borrowed engine hoist.” (CC BY 2.0) by Grant.C

Idler arm replacement cost

The cost of replacing an idler arm, as with just about any car repair, will depend on the vehicle you drive and the mechanic you choose.  The costs, from what we researched, ranged anywhere from $175 to $300 for both parts and labor.  In some cases, a mechanic may recommend replacing the Pitman arm during the repair as this arm could wear out in the future as well.

As for the DIY job, parts, again, depending on the vehicle you drive, can range from $25 to $115 for parts from popular brands such as Duralast and Rare Parts.  At Auto Zone, for instance, the top idler arms ranged anywhere

With a lot of people reporting the costs they paid online, we compiled the costs and included our findings in the table below:

A GM tech on JustAnswer.com said the costs to change the idler arm and would take close to 45 minutes to change.

The repair process

Once the idler arm is confirmed as the part that needs to be repaired, the car will be hoisted and the passenger side tire will be removed.

Next, with the passenger side tire off, the idler arm, in most cases, can be noticed as it is the S-shaped part which connects to the frame and the center link bar of the steering system.  When located, the cotter pin, which holds the idler arm in place, will be removed with a deep socket.

With the ratchet and socket, the castle nut, found in the ball stud, will be removed, along with the bolts, allowing the mechanic to free the idler arm from the frame.

In reverse, the new idler arm will be installed in the same position as the old one, secured with new bolts and nuts.

Lastly, once secured, it will be greased, ensuring for a better fit.

Signs of a bad idler arm

If your steering starts to feel “sloppy” and it feels as if your car is moving two or more inches from side to side, even without turning, the part could be the culprit.  The same can be said if your car were to hit a pothole and the car turned on its own.

If you think the idler arm is faulty, attempt to the move the steering wheel while it’s in park in a safe location.  If the wheel can move considerably from side to side, without much resistance, then it could mean the steering wheel components, the idler arm especially, could be the culprit.  If the steering wheel has too little of resistant, it’s often a bad sign the idler arm is the problem.

What is an idler arm?

The idler arm, or often referred to as the idler arm assembly, is considered to the be pivoting support for the steering linkage.  This part supports the end of the center link on the passenger side of the vehicle and is bolted the car’s frame, opposite of the Pitman arm and the center link.  In general, the idler arm will wear faster due to the pivot function built into the part.  Due to this, the part should be lubricated at each oil change if it is fitted with grease fittings.

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How Much Does a Grand Island Mansion Wedding Cost?

The Grand Island Mansion, located in Sacramento, California in the Delta Region of Northern California, is known as a historical Italian Renaissance-style landmark with intricate architecture both inside and out.

In 1917, it was built by Louis Meyers, a native of the city and his wife, Audry, who was the daughter of David Lubin.

Grand Island Mansion wedding cost

In order to reserve your wedding date, HereComesTheGuide.com notes you will need to place a $2,000 deposit, and the full amount is due two weeks prior to the date.  As for rental fees, the costs will greatly vary from $500 to $5,000, depending on the day/time of the event and the number of guests who are attending.  This rental fee will not include the costs of food and a minimum guest requirement is required depending on the package chosen.

As for meals, the costs, as with any venue, will depend on the type of dishes, setup and food substitutions you make.  Reading reviews online, it seemed as if couples paid anywhere from $25 to $45 a person, with an additional 20% charged for a service charge.  Alcohol and taxes were yet another expense to budget for.

NOTE:  Price estimates sourced from various online resources and are deemed estimates only.  Contact the venue directly for more infromation.

According to OurWeddingMag.com’s Sacramento’s Classic Wedding Venues article, the ceremony site and chair setup fees can range from $450 to $750, while the reception rental fees can range from $500 to $3,000.  As for the deals, Sunday brunch weddings can cost $450 for the ceremony site and another $32.95 per person, which includes champagne and non-alcoholic drinks.

What’s included in the fee?

As per the official website, everything is included for the wedding day, including an exclusive mansion event coordinator, rehearsal time, a variety of meals, overnight accommodations for just the bride and groom, dressing rooms and setup/breakdown of the garden chairs.

All facilities, for both the first and second levels, can be rented for five hours.

Other inclusions include complimentary parking, a full-service staff and fully set tables with china, glassware, linens and silverware.

The venue options

Ballroom – The Ballroom is a choice for those who want to get married during the milder months.  This option offers a fantasy, romantic-like theme, adorned by chandeliers with ceiling medallions and archways, according to TheKnot.com.

Marquee – This outdoor venue option, surrounded by fountains, trees and professionally landscaped gardens, is suitable for both the ceremony and the reception.

Shaded Gazebo – Also surrounded by professional landscaping and providing a picturesque view, this wrought iron gazebo offers a unique experience for any wedding ceremony.

Capacity

There is a 500 person maximum, with a 50-person minimum required for most events.

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