Five Hiking Trails in Ohio

From easy trekking to challenging adventures, Ohio has it all

Ohio offers a diverse terrain for hikers seeking a challenging climb and scenic views. From the flat plains of central Ohio to the rolling hills in the south, Ohioans are sure to enjoy an exciting excursion along the many trails of the BuckeyeState.

Clifton Gorge
To experience one of the most scenic views Ohio has to offer, visit Clifton Gorge in Yellow Springs. You may begin your hike at Clifton Mill, which is one of Ohio’s oldest working water mills. For a shorter one-mile hike, take the Rim Trail, which leads past the breathtaking views of the gorge and waterfalls. For a longer hike, continue the trail into JohnBryanState   Park. Trails can be slippery at times, and proper footwear and attire is recommended. Pets are not allowed within Clifton Gorge State Nature Preserve or JohnBryanState   Park. Visit http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/tabid/882/default.aspx for more information.

Conkle’s Hollow
If you thrive on adventure, Conkle’s Hollow in Hocking Hills is one of the most difficult hikes in Ohio. At just over 2.5 miles, the upper rim of the Conkle’s Hollow trail meanders around steep cliffs and overhangs. Your work is well-rewarded with views of waterfalls near the trail’s end. Children and pets are not permitted on the Conkle’s Hollow Upper Rim Trail because of safety concerns and an occasional bear sighting. Conkle’s Hollow is located in Rockbridge. Go to http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/location/dnap/conkles_hollow/tabid/884/Default.aspx for a detailed map.

Miami and Erie Towpath Canal Trail
If you’re looking for a smooth path appropriate for children of all ages, consider the Miami and Erie Towpath Canal Trail near Grand   Rapids. The trail begins at ProvidencePark, located just outside Grand Rapids. The trail follows the Maumee River for eight miles and offers a wide range of water views. Plan your visit at http://www.metroparkstoledo.com/metro/parksandplaces/index.asp?page_id=517.

Buckeye Trail
With 26 sections totaling almost 1,500 miles, the Buckeye Trail is the longest hiking trail in Ohio. It makes a continuous loop around the state and covers the hilly terrain of the southern parts of the state up to Lake Erie beaches. You can start anywhere on the trail for an afternoon hike or camp in approved campsites directly off the trail for longer hikes. A detailed map of the Buckeye Trail can be found at http://www.buckeyetrail.org, or by calling the Buckeye Trail Association at (740) 832-1282.

Quail Hollow
With eight short and easy hiking trails available, Quail Hollow is one of the most accessible parks in Ohio. The “Nature for All” trail offers more than 2,000 feet of paved trail for those requiring a smooth surface or wheelchair accessibility. Located in Hartville, Quail Hollow also offers a nature center and picnic shelters. Check out http://www.dnr.state.oh.us/parks/quailhlw/tabid/783/Default.aspx for information.

Whether you want a short afternoon hike or a week-long excursion, there is an Ohio hiking trail for you.

 

Vehicle Details: 2014 Chevrolet Corvette

Performance that makes other cars sweat…

A new Chevrolet Corvette is an event. Passion runs deep for this high-achieving sports car among both the public and the talented engineers and designers at Chevrolet who develop the model. The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray made its debut in Detroit at the North American International Auto Show in January, and the world will never be the same when it goes on sale shortly here at Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

Because there’s a relatively long period between new generations of the Corvette, Chevrolet really sweats the details. Glancing quickly at the all-new C7 generation, the 2014 Corvette Stingray Coupe and Convertible, is impressive enough, but diving into the full list of changes will really raise your eyebrows.

It all starts with the brand-new frame that’s made from aluminum to keep weight down and increase strength. It lends the 2014 Corvette Stingray an unshakeable foundation, and the body is made of lightweight materials, too. The removable roof panel and hood are carbon fiber, while underbody panels are carbon nano-composite. The careful attention to weight management has led to a perfect 50/50 front/back weight distribution.

In between those new aluminum frame rails is the all-new LT1 V8. The 6.2-liter engine combines the classic packaging efficiency of a small-block V8 with advanced modern technology like continuously variable valve timing and direct fuel injection, and it delivers 450 hp and 450 lb/ft of torque. That’s enough power to make the 2014 Stingray the quickest standard Corvette ever, capable of accelerating to 60 mph in less than four seconds. The high-performing new Stingray is more efficient than ever before. Active Fuel Management brings cylinder deactivation to the Corvette for the first time and helps reduce fuel consumption during cruising.

You’ll be able to make the most of the tidily-packed engine’s big power thanks to a new seven-speed manual transmission that ensures you can hold the engine at the exact power level you need for the driving challenge you’re facing. Coming out of a tight corner? With seven ratios to choose from, there’s one that’s perfect for keeping the LT1 on boil so you can squeeze the pedal and flex the engine’s muscle as you rocket away from the apex. Seven speeds also means an overdrive top gear that’s steep enough to improve on the outgoing Corvette model’s still-impressive 26 mpg.

The new suite of standard technology doesn’t stop with a modernized small block and a new transmission. The 2014 Corvette Stingray features Active Rev Matching, which anticipates your next shift and automatically adjusts the engine speed for smooth, quick, expert-perfect shifts every time.

In the new carbon fiber- aluminum- and ultrasuede-trimmed interior, a Drive Mode Selector gives drivers the choice of five distinct attitudes from the same car. Selecting between “Weather,” “Eco,” “Tour,” “Sport” and “Track” adjusts the responsiveness of the controls and changes the information the gauge cluster displays to help you focus at the task at hand, whether that’s driving in a downpour or coming off a banked turn at 120 mph. When equipped with the available six-speed automatic transmission, the 2014 Stingray features paddle shifters for manual control.

The new cockpit has been designed for more comfort than ever before and is trimmed with fine materials assembled with careful craftsmanship. The interior is new right down to the magnesium frames employed in the brand-new seats, which are offered in a GT version and a Competition Sport version with heavier bolstering.

Chevrolet paid attention to what happens inside the Corvette at speed, which is why the passenger has a reinforced grab bar on the center console and the center console has soft-touch materials on its edge to cushion the driver’s bracing during hard cornering. A smaller steering wheel than before, now with a 14.1-inch diameter, gives the Stingray a direct, responsive feel. An abundance of soft-touch materials and available Nappa leather give the cabin a premium atmosphere.

If the stellar performance of the standard Stingray isn’t enough for you, there’s the Z51 Performance Package that can tear up a race track with ferocity. Included in the Z51 package is an electronic limited-slip differential; a dry-sump oil system to ensure the engine is always lubricated, even in 1.0g sweepers; additional cooling systems for the brake, differential and transmission; and an Aero Package that enhances stability at high speeds.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible is perhaps the model truest to the roots of the Convertible. After all, the first two generations of Corvette were conceived as sports cars with folding tops, and that’s a type of car that buyers today are still interested in purchasing. Instead of marginalizing the chassis rigidity of the Corvette Convertible by just hacking the roof off a coupe, the 2014 Stingray Convertible was designed independently, right along side its Coupe counterpart. They share the same solid structure, the same suspension tuning, the same fire-breathing performance, and they even weigh nearly the same. Instead of forcing compromise, the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible gives you all the performance, plus the added benefit of top-down driving enjoyment.

Paying attention to details is what makes some good-performing cars into great vehicles. There is none greater than the 2014 Corvette Stingray. For its starting MSRP below $52,000, nothing can touch the performance of the Stingray, and because of intense attention to detail, it’s also packing an unbeatable level of refinement, technology and luxury.

http://www.jackmaxton.com

Car Care: Wheel Alignment

One of the most important and yet neglected factors influencing the handling, and the fuel efficiency, of any car or truck is the wheel alignment. Your vehicle’s ability to go, stop and change direction is affected by the direction each of the wheels is pointing, and, whether you drive a compact car or full-size SUV or pickup, the directional control you get where the rubber meets the road is important for safety.

At any given moment only a small patch of rubber, often smaller than the palm of your hand, is supporting the weight of the vehicle and transmitting all of the forces from the engine, brakes and steering to the pavement. Proper wheel alignment helps ensure all of those forces are going where they belong and the tires aren’t being overworked.

While it may look to the naked eye like all of the tires are pointed straight ahead, they are all at slight but important angles. There are three different angles that affect wheel alignment: camber, caster and toe.

“Camber” is the degree to which a wheel departs from vertical (or perpendicular with the road), as viewed from the front. The top of each wheel is usually angled slightly inward. On an average car or truck, the angle is usually less than a few degrees, and you need special measuring equipment to determine the angle. The camber angle compensates for the way tire rubber stretches and deforms when cornering, and helps to make sure that the tire’s contact patch remains in full contact with the road, including while going around corners.

“Toe” is the degree to which a wheel departs from being parallel to the other wheel on the same axle. If the front wheels (and the rears, if the vehicle has independent rear suspension) are angled slightly towards each other (as viewed from above) it’s called “toe-in.” “Toe-out” is when the wheels are pointing slightly away from each other. This is to counter the forces that push the wheels back into a more straight-ahead angle while driving.

Finally, “caster” is the frontward or rearward angle that the steering pivot point has from vertical, as considered from the side. The forces from the caster angle are what give the steering wheel a self-centering capability when you go down the road or relax your grip after going around a corner.

Each of these can be adjusted with links that are part of the suspension system. However, small variations in the angles can have a big effect on how the car drives and on tire wear. Sometimes hitting a big pothole or sliding into a curb can be enough to affect the toe or camber angle by a single degree or less, causing the vehicle to continuously pull in one direction or the other.

In addition to causing the vehicle to pull in one direction or the other, alignment problems also cause abnormally high, often uneven, tire wear. This can lead to a blow-out that could cause an accident, excess vibration that can be felt throughout the vehicle and reduced tire life.

Since checking and adjusting wheel alignment requires precision equipment, it should only be done by your dealer’s service department. You should never attempt to adjust the alignment by hand at home. While most service facilities offer both front-wheel-only alignment and four-wheel alignment, it is usually best to go for four-wheel alignment.

On rear-wheel drive cars and trucks with a solid rear axle, there usually aren’t any adjustments available for the rear wheels. However, even in this case, four-wheel alignment is important because the front wheels will be adjusted relative to the rear wheels so that everything is pointed in the right direction. Doing a front-only alignment can still leave the car pulling in one direction or the other.

One way to determine if your vehicle needs an alignment is to drive it down a straight, flat road with little or no crown (the fall-off toward the outer edge). The car should track straight ahead without you having to tug on the steering wheel. If the vehicle diverges from straight ahead without steering input, get it serviced soon.

You should also do a regular visual inspection of all four tires for uneven wear. The tread depth should be relatively consistent. You can quickly check the depth using a penny stuck into the grooves. If the top part of Lincoln’s head is covered by the rubber in each groove, you have enough tread left. However, if the depth is significantly different on the inner or outer edge of the tire, you could have an alignment problem that needs to be corrected.

Most alignment work can be done quickly and often doesn’t require any parts replacement unless the vehicle has hit something severe and bent a suspension link. A proper alignment and a regular tire rotation with each oil change will help your tires last longer and make your vehicle safer and more enjoyable to drive.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

 

Five Golf Destinations in Ohio

The Buckeye State offers some of the best golfing locations in the Midwest

In Ohio, the spring and summer months mean sunny skies, moderate temperatures and naturally bright green, grassy turf. Head outdoors and spend time enjoying some of the Midwest’s best golfing destinations.

Stay on the green at Sleepy Hollow Golf Course

As the highest-ranking municipal golf course in Ohio, Sleepy Hollow Golf Course offers a challenging but scenic 18-hole golf game. The rustic nature of this course, with its ravines and bunkers, offers impressive views of the Cuyahoga River Valley. Located in Brecksville, the course is one of the most widely-visited in the Cleveland area. Sleepy Hollow has been the home of numerous high-profile golfing events through the years. For additional information, visit http://www.clevelandmetroparks.com/Main/Sleepy-Hollow.aspx or call (440) 526-4285.

Enjoy the island life at Catawba Island Golf Club

Once only a nine-hole golf course, this private membership picturesque island course now features 18 holes of Ohio’s best Lake Erie views. Located in Port Clinton, this golf resort includes a full-size practice range and putting green. Several club houses and lounges offer food and drinks after an afternoon round of golf. Visit http://www.cicclub.com or call (419) 797-4424 for information about membership.

Brush up on your golf skills at Shaker Run’s Golf Academy

Shaker Run Golf Course sits amidst the rolling hills of Lebanon, offering stunning views and a challenging course. This public golf course offers a full 18 holes. A Golf Academy is available for golfers who feel they need a brush up on their golf skills or want to learn something new. Go to http://www.ShakerRunGolfClub.com, or call (513) 727-0007 for available hours.

Lodge, lunch and golf at Snow Hill Country Club

The facilities at Snow Hill Country Club in New Vienna have much to offer. This semi-private golf resort boasts its own inn, where five rooms are available for overnight stays. A club house offers food and beverages for all occasions. These amenities, combined with 18 holes of golf, are sure to make for a relaxing weekend retreat. Call (937) 987-2491 for reservations, or visit http://www.SnowHillCountryClub.com.

Head indoors for one of Ohio’s most unique golf experiences

If the weather turns rainy, head indoors for some extra practice at Teed Up Indoor Golf in Worthington. Teed Up is a golf destination like no other. Teed Up’s simulator will measure the speed, loft and distance of your golf swing. Your visit includes the selection of one of 22 challenging courses where you can apply your expert or novice skills. No need to worry. Teed Up says their employees are familiar with four-letter words. Visit http://www.TeedUpIndoorGolf.com, or call (614) 846-9222. Tee times are required.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio 

Vehicle Preview: 2014 Chevrolet Silverado

Redesigned from hood to hitch to be the strongest and most capable Silverado ever

Boasting a stronger, quieter and more comfortable cabin; redesigned steering, suspension and brakes; innovative cargo storage solutions in the bed; and three new, specially-engineered EcoTec3 engine options, the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado is destined to redefine the full-size pickup market yet again and will be available soon here at Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

At its core is a choice of three engines specifically designed for the Silverado. All three engines use advanced technology − direct fuel injection, cylinder deactivation and continuously variable value timing − for an optimal balance of power and fuel efficiency.

The new standard 4.3-liter V6 is extremely versatile, offering enough muscle to power a Crew Cab while pulling a large trailer. When not working hard, the V6 deactivates two cylinders for more fuel efficiency under light loads. A new 5.3-liter V8 delivers more horsepower, torque and fuel efficiency than the previous 5.3-liter, while a new 6.2-liter V8 delivers even more power while still offering four-cylinder mode under light loads for optimal fuel efficiency.

All three engines are paired with six-speed automatic transmissions featuring gearing and shifting that optimizes performance and efficiency. Auto Grade Braking automatically downshifts on downhill grades help reduce brake wear, especially when towing heavy loads.

Part of what makes the new Silverado so capable is its updated frame design, which uses hydroformed high-strength steel for improved rigidity and reduced weight. Whether you opt for a Standard, Extended or Crew Cab, every Silverado cab features strengthened A-pillars, B-pillars, roof rails and rocker panels for a quieter freeway ride, improved handling and top performance in more stringent government crash tests.

Suspension and steering have also been enhanced on the 2014 Silverado, featuring lightweight aluminum components that are both stiffer and lighter for a more refined ride with more confident handling and braking. An electric variable-assist power steering system improves fuel economy and reduces maintenance while delivering easier steering effort at low speeds.

The 2014 Silverado comes in three bed lengths: five feet, eight inches; six feet, six inches; and eight feet. Those who use the Silverado for work will really appreciate features like the CornerStep bumper and built-in hand grip pockets for easier bed access. An internal torsion bar reduces effort when raising and lowering the tailgate, and available LED lighting under the bed rails improves visibility when working at night. Depending on configuration, the 2014 Silverado can accommodate up to six passengers and features larger rear doors on Crew Cab models, adding two inches of rear seat legroom with improved ingress and egress.

If your Silverado will see heavy off-road use, the Z71 Off-Road Package will be available on LT and LTZ models. Featuring monotube Rancho shocks, a transfer case skid plate, front tow hooks, unique 18- or 20-inch wheels with all-terrain tires, an automatic locking rear differential and Hill Descent Control for improved downhill traction in rough terrain, the Z71 package is a must for those who work off the beaten path.

Subtle exterior enhancements greatly improve aerodynamics for reduced wind noise and improved fuel efficiency. A new, lightweight aluminum hood with twin power domes adds a muscular look and guides air over the windshield wipers, further reducing wind noise. Inlaid doors that fit into the body sides, triple door seals, wheel-well air deflectors and underbody shields all smooth out airflow to improve aerodynamics on the Silverado.

No matter how punishing the conditions may get outside, the environment inside the fully redesigned Silverado couldn’t be more accommodating. Designed to be quieter, roomier and more comfortable than any pickup in history, the luxurious accommodations of the Silverado could be mistaken for those of a high-priced luxury sedan.

You can get a new Silverado with luxury appointments like leather upholstery, wood-grain trim and the MyLink infotainment system with eight-inch LCD screen that enables voice control of music, media and smartphones through Bluetooth connectivity. It also remains a work horse, featuring large knobs and buttons, a column shifter with integrated tap-up/tap-down towing functions and a six-gauge instrument cluster with integrated trailer brake controller, and all controls on the Silverado can easily be operated while wearing work gloves.

Equal to its capability, the 2014 Silverado is packed with a long list of safety features. Standard safety technologies include StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control with Trailer Sway Control and Hill Start Assist, and the popular OnStar system. New safety features for 2014 include Lane Departure Warning and Forward Collision Alert, along with an available rear-vision camera with front and rear park assist.

The 2014 Chevrolet Silverado builds on 95 years of American truck heritage and is destined to set a new standard for full-size pickup trucks. Pricing, power, towing capacity and fuel efficiency numbers will be announced soon with availability this summer, so come in today to stay up to date on all the latest details of the 2014 Chevrolet Silverado.

 

Vehicle Profile: 2013 Chevrolet Camaro

America’s most popular sports car features powerful engines options and excellent fuel economy

The only thing more American than apple pie is the Chevrolet Camaro. Offering coupe and convertible body styles, a track-ready performance package, more standard features and additional audio, technology and convenience choices, the 2013 Chevy Camaro, on sale now here at Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio, maintains a strong hold on its status as the most popular American sports car.

Automotive journalists love the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro (MSRP starting at $23,345), too. Kelly Blue Book awarded the 2013 Camaro SS “Best Resale Value – High Performance” and the Camaro V6 “Best Resale Value – Sports Car.” Consumer’s Digest chose the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro as a “Best Buy” for the fourth year in a row thanks to outstanding four-passenger comfort, ergonomics, styling, safety and value.

New for 2013, a special 1LE Performance Package––available on SS coupe models––features unique gearing and suspension, plus ZL1-sourced 20-inch wheels with Goodyear Eagle Supercar G:2 tires. The package makes the Camaro SS

Coupe capable of pulling more than 1 g of lateral acceleration – a feat many rear-wheel drive cars costing twice as much as the Camaro can’t achieve.

 Camaro drivers have three powerful and efficient engine choices, depending on trim choice. For the ultimate blend of muscle and fuel efficiency, the 3.6-liter direct-injected V6 engine in LS and LT trims delivers 323 hp while returning a remarkable 30 mpg highway. In comparison, the larger, 3.7-liter V6 standard in the 2014 Ford Mustang produces 305 hp. Depending on your shifting preferences, the V6 in the Camaro can be outfitted with either a Hydra-Matic 6L50 six-speed automatic transmission with TAPshift clutchless manual shifting or an Aisin six-speed manual. For 2013, all Camaro models equipped with a manual transmission also come with standard Hill Start Assist, to help prevent roll-back when starting off on an incline.

The Camaro SS features two 6.2-liter V8 powerplants: a 400-hp version with Active Fuel Management, paired with a Hydra-Matic 6L80 six-speed automatic transmission; and a 426-hp version paired with a Tremec six-speed manual specially designed to manage the high torque produced by the V8. A 6.2-liter V8 that produces 580 hp is also available in the ZL1 (the ZL1 will be the topic of a separate article). All V8 models equipped with a manual feature standard Launch Control, which controls wheel-spin for maximum off-the-line traction and acceleration.

The SS 1LE includes a special Tremec six-speed manual transmission with air-to-liquid cooling and close-ratio gearing optimized for road racing. Exclusive monotube rear dampers deliver enhanced body-motion control for high-speed maneuvering without compromising ride quality.

Additional SS 1LE Performance Package equipment includes the flat-bottom steering wheel from the ZL1, covered in sueded microfiber; larger front and rear stabilizer bars; functional front splitter and rear spoiler; matte black hood; a strut tower brace that provides enhanced steering response and feel; and a high-capacity fuel pump with extra fuel pickups for better delivery under hard cornering. The Camaro SS 1LE is a bona-fide racing machine designed to dominate any track it sets rubber onto.

Unlike traditional muscle cars, the 2013 Camaro features a fully independent front and rear suspension to minimize body roll, improve cornering and enhance ride quality. SS trims also come with custom suspension setting adjustments for road and track performance. Four-wheel disc brakes are standard on all trims, and the SS comes with more powerful Brembo four-piston calipers.

A new, variable-ratio, variable-effort electric power steering system is standard on all SS trims, delivering light-input maneuverability at low speeds while increasing resistance and feedback at higher speeds for a more direct steering sensation.

Of course, every Camaro benefits from one of the most iconic designs in muscle car history, with classic cues from what many consider the ultimate muscle car – the 1969 Camaro. For those who love the sensation of open-air motoring, the Camaro Convertible is available in two LT trims and two SS trims. Specifically designed to be a convertible (not just a coupe with a different roof), the Camaro Convertible benefits from special bracing and a stiffened body structure to prevent unwanted flex, road noise and body sway.

Inside the 2013 Camaro, classic design blends perfectly with modern technology, like the popular Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and color-touch radio, standard on LT and SS trims for 2013. Special LED ambient lighting; remote vehicle start; a nine-speaker, 245-watt Boston Acoustics sound system; turn-by-turn navigation; heated, leather-trimmed seats; a leather-wrapped steering wheel and a Head-Up display are among the many luxury and convenience features that are standard or available depending on trim.

In addition to its outstanding reputation as a sports car, the Camaro has an equally impressive safety record. Featuring a protective “safety cage” design, six standard airbags and standard StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, the 2013 Camaro was the first passenger car to receive the revised federal quadruple “5-Star” safety rating. For added safety and visibility, a Rear Vision Package is standard on 2LT and 2SS models.

Boasting head-turning design, powerful and fuel-efficient engines, advanced technology, industry-leading safety, and a special package for hardcore driving enthusiasts, not only is the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro one of the best sports car values in America, it’s also one of the best automotive values, period. If you’ve always wondered what it would be like to own an American icon, don’t wonder any longer; stop in today and get behind the wheel of the 2013 Chevrolet Camaro.

Air Conditioning Service

Stay cool when the temperature rises

With spring now in full force, it’s time to make sure your vehicle’s air conditioning system is ready to keep things cool as the heat of summer driving approaches. There are several items that every vehicle owner can check out on their own, while other jobs should probably be left to a trained professional technician.

The first and easiest task is to just check the function of the system by turning it on. Unless you drive a hybrid with an electrically-driven air conditioning system, the air conditioning (A/C) compressor is almost always driven by a belt turned by the engine. That means you need to start the engine for the air conditioner to provide any chilled air.

With the engine running, turn on the air conditioning and verify that cold air is coming from the vents. Cycle the fan control to ensure that the amount of chilled air can be varied. If you can feel cool air but it isn’t blowing, you may have a faulty ventilation fan or it may simply be a blown fuse. Check the owner’s manual to find out which fuse controls the fan and replace it if necessary. If the fuse is good but the fan still doesn’t work, it’s probably best to bring the vehicle into your dealership and have a technician check it out.

If the fan is pushing out air that is not quickly cold, shut off the engine and take a look under the hood to inspect the accessory drive-belts on the engine. For safety reasons, it’s really important not stick your fingers or any other object near the belts with the engine running. On a rear-wheel drive car or truck, the accessory belt, along with the A/C compressor, will be found at the front of the engine. On most front-wheel drive vehicles in which the engine is mounted sideways, the “front” of the engine is usually found on the passenger side of the engine compartment.

Inspect the belt or belts with the engine off to ensure they aren’t loose, frayed or broken. Most newer vehicles will have a single belt that wraps around several pulleys, including the alternator, air conditioning compressor and possibly a hydraulic power steering pump, while older vehicles may have two to three belts. If you push on the belt mid-way between two of the pulleys, there should be less than half an inch of slack on the belt. A frayed belt shouldn’t cause A/C failure, but it should be replaced, so it doesn’t break while you are driving.

As the engine packaging on newer vehicles gets increasingly tight, belt replacement has become more difficult. If a belt needs replacing, you should take your vehicle to your dealer and have a trained technician take care of it.

If the belt(s) is in good shape, the most likely sources of air conditioning problems are the compressor or low levels of refrigerant. Over time, refrigerant can slowly leak out of the air conditioning system and require a recharge. Vehicles built before the mid-1990s all originally used a form of refrigerant known as R-12. Because R-12 caused damage to the Earth’s ozone layer, it was banned from use and replaced with R-134.

Older vehicles originally built for R-12 can be upgraded to run with R-134, and over the years many have already been modified. This is not a do-it-yourself sort of project and if you still have an older vehicle that uses R-12, the upgrade should be handled by a pro.

Drivers shouldn’t try to recharge their vehicles on their own and can get this service done by their dealership. A factory-trained technician should inspect your A/C system for leaks and other problems before your system is recharged, anyway, to avoid wasting refrigerant and money.

If the problem is with the air conditioning compressor or a leak somewhere in the system, the repairs should definitely be handled by a professional. Taking apart the system and putting it back together without damaging seals is a not a trivial task, and if you don’t get it right it can be far more expensive to fix than if a technician did it in the first place.

Now is the time to check out your air conditioning and have it serviced before you get stuck in a traffic jam on a 90-degree day. It costs nothing to do the basic checks, and getting service now will prevent grief later.

This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

Vehicle Profile: 2013 Chevrolet Spark

Big value, fuel efficiency and fun, to go.

The 2013 Chevrolet Spark is the first mini-car to wear the bowtie badge in the U.S and Canada and is available here Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio. Already popular around the world, the sprightly Spark was designed with an international flair and an emphasis on maneuverability, fuel-efficiency and affordability, offering more room and better mileage than competitors for less money.

The sporty, four-passenger Spark (MSRP $12,185) is a five-door hatchback that offers bold styling in a wide range of colors, standard features that include air conditioning and power windows, and available advanced technology that includes the Chevrolet MyLink connectivity system with streaming audio, video and hands-free phone through a seven-inch color touch-screen radio that also offers voice-recognition.

Under the hood, all three 2013 Chevrolet Spark trims––LS, 1LT and 2LT––feature a feisty, 1.25-liter dual-overhead cam four-cylinder engine that puts down 84 hp to the front wheels through either a standard five-speed manual transmission or an available four-speed automatic. The Spark returns 38 mpg highway and 32 mpg city and highway (one highway mpg more than the Scion iQ, which doesn’t offer a manual transmission, and one city mpg more than the Fiat 500); unlike other mini-cars, like the Fiat 500, that require premium-grade fuel, the Spark runs on regular unleaded, saving even more money at the pump.

The Spark adds to its value-oriented nature by being the only mini-car to offer a five-year/100,000-mile Powertrain Limited Warranty. It also features a no-maintenance timing chain and transmission fluid, 100,000-mile spark plugs and an electronic power steering system that never needs fluid changes. All of these little details add up to big savings over time.

The Spark is as fun to drive as it is to look at. At 93.5 inches, the Spark wheelbase is 14.8 inches longer than the Scion iQ’s and 2.9 inches longer than the Fiat 500’s, and the Spark features a lightweight body structure, electronic power steering and a MacPherson strut front suspension system for tight handling characteristics and outstanding stability in all driving conditions. Hill Start Assist prevents roll-back when starting uphill from a stop, and with a turning circle of just 32.5 feet, the Spark can maneuver easily through even the tightest urban areas.

While other mini-cars try to appeal to buyers by being “cute,” the Spark has a muscular and powerful appearance. The Spark design cleverly disguises the rear doors by incorporating the door handles into the C-pillars, giving the car the look of a three-door hatchback without sacrificing interior space and utility. Fifteen-inch alloy wheels, a stretched windshield, body-color front door handles and clean, crisp body sides add to the sleek, upscale appearance of the Spark.

To make the Spark stand out even more, dramatic exterior color options include Denim, Jalapeno, Lemonade and Techno Pink in addition to more traditional Black Granite, Silver Ice and Summit White.

The Spark might be small, but don’t let its compact size fool you; it’s engineered with high-quality components and materials that deliver comfort for all four passengers and a hushed interior on par with much larger vehicles. Using thicker glass, hood seals, expanding foam in hollow sections of the body, an acoustic headliner and damping patches throughout, the Spark delivers a quiet ride even on the highway, adding to the feeling of quality and refinement.

Defying its compact profile, the Spark gives occupants generous amounts of space to stretch out in and an 11.4 cubic foot cargo area that expands to a maximum of 31.2 cubic feet with the 60/40-split rear seats folded flat. The Scion iQ offers maximum cargo space of just 16.7 cubic feet and the Fiat 500 has a paltry 9.5 cubic feet. Drivers will appreciate the fun and engaging instrument cluster that takes inspiration from motorcycles and features a large, full-color LCD screen with digital readouts. All occupants will enjoy the ice-blue ambient lighting at night, as well as the leatherette seats that are standard in the 2LT trim. Also standard in the 2LT, heated front seats keep the chill at bay on cold days.

The aforementioned Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system is standard in 1LT and 2LT trims. In addition to its seven-inch color touch-screen, Bluetooth streaming audio and phone with voice recognition, it comes with a three-month trial subscription to SiriusXM Satellite Radio and six powerful speakers. There is even a GPS navigation option. The Spark does away with a traditional CD player, opting instead for MyLink integration with compatible smartphones and stored media via Bluetooth or USB for simple and safe connectivity. MyLink also features embedded Pandora Internet Radio and Stitcher Smart Radio apps for streaming tunes.

The Chevrolet Spark has already garnered global awards for occupant safety in Europe and Korea, thanks in part to the high-strength steel across more than 62 percent of the its underbody and 42 percent of its upper body. Equipped with 10 standard airbags, the Spark also features standard safety technology like StabiliTrak^® Electronic Stability Control, Antilock Braking System, rollover detection, a collapsible steering column for added driver safety and the popular OnStar system that automatically notifies authorities in the event of a collision and provides a long list of additional safety, security and convenience features and services. Unlike any other mini-car, the Chevy Spark also features a handy OnStar RemoteLink Mobile App that allows smartphone users to remotely control vehicle functions and access vehicle information.

With three well-equipped trims and an MSRP that’s $4,065 less than the 2013 Scion iQ’s and $3,815 less than the Fiat 500’s, there’s a Spark to fit a wide range of needs and budgets. Offering unique style, bold colors, a high-quality interior, advanced technology and award-winning safety, the 2013 Chevrolet Spark should be at the top of your list of new mini-cars. Stop in today to see and drive this endearing little machine for yourself. You’ll find it hard to resist.

Celebrating Earth Day

Observe this environmental holiday by cleaning up the world around you

Earth Day has been celebrated annually on April 22 since 1970. The day is designated as a way to acknowledge the environment and consider ways to make the earth a healthier place to live. People of any age and nationality can participate in this one-day event. The more people who participate in Earth Day, the more impact the holiday will have on the overall environment.

Clean up the environment

Head outdoors and do what you can to clean up the environment in your own neighborhood. Pick up trash along roads, sidewalks and hiking trails. Recycle items that are recyclable and dispose of other items in proper trash receptacles. Clean up sticks and other natural debris that are blocking walking and bike paths and take them to a composting area. Trim trees and shrubs along walking paths, making them more accessible for walkers.

Plant trees or vegetables

Because plant-life increases the quality of the air around you, consider planting on Earth Day. Plant a tree in memory of a friend or loved one. Get a head start on the summer growing season by planting vegetable seeds indoors. Plant flowers in your yard, if possible. Make a pine cone bird feeder to attract and feed birds in your outdoor space.

Start an ongoing program

While focusing on the environment for one day is a positive move, an ongoing effort for environmental preservation is even better. Consider using Earth Day as an opportunity to launch an environmental program in your community. Start a recycling program. Develop a group of local citizens interested in volunteering in your local parks. Organize a community garden.

Enjoy nature

Even if you do not actively participate in Earth Day with a personal project, take the time to get outdoors and enjoy the nature in your community. Visit a park you have never visited. Take a hike in a state park. Enjoy a picnic near a local nature preserve. Visit a local farm.

Make every day Earth Day

Although Earth Day is celebrated in spring of each year, you can make every day an Earth Day in your household. Make a commitment to become more environmentally conscious and reduce your environmental footprint. Conserve utility resources by turning down your thermostat when you are not home, reducing water usage and opening your windows instead of using air-conditioning. Purchase food from local farmers and independently operated businesses, or grow some of your own fruits and vegetables.

Start a composting bin, in order to recycle vegetable and yard waste and use the compost for landscaping or gardening. Make your own cleaning products, instead of using toxic commercial products. Recycle whenever possible and find new uses for items before you discard them. Most important, get away from the computer and the television set and get outdoors. Walk and bike when weather allows and enjoy your natural surroundings.
This article is presented by Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio.

Vehicle Preview: 2014 Chevrolet Impala

Luxury, style and advanced technology grace reinvented American icon

The all-new 2014 Chevrolet Impala, on sale soon here at Jack Maxton Chevrolet in Worthington, Ohio, is built on an award-winning global platform and delivers luxury, refinement, advanced technology and fuel efficiency never before seen in an Impala. Among the highlights of what’s new in the Impala, America’s best-selling full-size sedan since 2004, are a completely redesigned exterior, a more spacious interior with increased front and rear legroom, enhanced noise suppression for a quieter cabin, a long list of active safety features and three powerful and fuel-efficient powertrain options.

All three powertrains in the new, 10th-generation Impala feature direct fuel injection for enhanced throttle response and increased fuel efficiency. A powerful, lightweight 3.6-liter V6 good for 305 hp and 264 lb/ft of torque will be the exclusive engine choice when the Impala launches. This is the most hp from a naturally aspirated V6 in the segment. Following soon after, a new Ecotec 2.5-liter four-cylinder engine will deliver 196 hp and 186 lb/ft of torque. Available near the end of the year will be the popular Ecotec 2.4-liter four-cylinder with eAssist, which features an electric assist generator that helps maximize mileage. The 2.4-liter delivers an estimated 182 hp and returns an outstanding 35 mpg highway.

All three engines come with smooth-shifting six-speed automatic transmissions. Thanks to a stronger, stiffer, more precisely tuned body structure, the front-wheel drive 2014 Impala has a greater feeling of control and comfort with enhanced driving athleticism.

The completely redesigned exterior has an optimal blend of classic good looks and modern style. The low, wind-swept profile of the 2014 Chevy Impala helps reduce wind drag and minimizes interior noise at freeway speeds. With a choice of 18-, 19- or 20-inch wheels, diagonal dual-signature taillamps, High-Intensity Discharge headlamps and LED daytime running lights, the Impala exudes a sense of sophisticated luxury at a price point––MSRP starting at $29,950––thousands less than its European counterparts.

Eye-catching touches draw you into the Impala. Inside, an attractive wraparound instrument panel blends naturally into the door panels, and high-quality soft-touch materials are featured throughout. Quality can also be seen in the upholstery, with available sueded microfiber or perforated leather seating welcoming all occupants. At night the Impala interior comes alive with tasteful Ice-Blue ambient lighting throughout the cabin. Standard or available features (depending on trim) like remote starting, dual-zone automatic climate control, heated front seats, ventilated front seats and a heated steering wheel round out the Impala as a legitimate luxury sedan.

Once inside, your eyes are immediately drawn to the center stack that houses an available eight-inch touch screen display. The display controls all features including climate control, Bluetooth audio streaming, the popular Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system and the available navigation system. All five passengers enjoy increased legroom, and trunk space has been increased to a generous 18.8 cubic feet.

One of the most noticeable traits of the redesigned 2014 Impala is its exceptionally quiet ride. Featuring a comprehensive suite of sound-suppressing and absorbing materials––including the first application of advanced Active Noise Cancellation technology in a Chevrolet (four-cylinder models), acoustically laminated windshield and front-door glass, sound-absorbing carpet and a completely isolated engine cradle––the 2014 Impala is the quietest full-size sedan Chevrolet has ever made.

The 2014 Chevy Impala boast one of the most advanced suites of standard and available safety feature suites in the full-size sedan segment. The 2014 Impala is the first Chevrolet to feature full-speed-range Adaptive Cruise Control, which automatically adjusts vehicle speed in traffic. Collision Mitigation Braking is another first for Chevrolet, using radar to intervene and apply emergency braking when an imminent crash threat is detected. Lane Departure Warning notifies the driver with audible alerts if the vehicle is drifting over traffic lane markings.

Side Blind Zone Alert detects vehicles along side, where they might not be seen, while Rear Cross Traffic Alert notifies you when people or vehicles are approaching from the either side while you are backing up. A Rear Vision Camera is integrated into the standard Chevrolet MyLink infotainment system, helping drivers easily back into parking spaces.

Add standard safety features like 10 airbags, StabiliTrak Electronic Stability Control, all-speed Traction Control, four-wheel antilock disc brakes, Electronic Brake-force Distribution and the popular OnStar system that automatically calls for help in the event of a collision and offers remote vehicle control through the OnStar RemoteLink mobile app, and you have one of the safest, most connected full-size sedans on the road today in the 2014 Chevy Impala.

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