Buying Auto Parts -- Caps for All Purposes Caps

Keeping Your Caps in Shape

Leaking gas caps have proved to be one of the greatest sources of bad emissions worldwide according to the USEPA. Studies show that over half of all the hydrocarbon emissions from a vehicle come from evaporative losses.

By replacing lost or leaking gas caps, these studies further show that an individual can save up to 30 gallons of gasoline a year per vehicle and reduce evaporative emissions by up to one-third.

A Closer Look at Caps

Since the 1960’s gas caps have been made with nitrile rubber, as the main material used in the seals and gaskets of gas caps although the material used does not last more than two years. After the two years, the caps start leaking and when they aren’t replaced their malfunction causes leakage of toxins into the air. Companies like RAM Products have developed new materials for the use in gas caps. These new materials are far superior and have a much greater life expectancy, durability and permeation rate.

Cap Requirements in the 21st Century

Beginning with the 2004 model vehicles, older style gas caps that depend on nitrile seals have been replaced with new caps made with fluorocarbons as one of the recommended strategies to meet the new air quality and new zero evaporative system requirements.

Caps and Auto Safety

Gas caps since the 1960’s have been designed with the “turn until it clicks” design. This was created because most people do not turn their gas caps far enough to make the seal complete, therefore allowing harmful hydrocarbon emissions to enter the atmosphere. The new gas caps that are now being designed have an easier closing system that allows even the elderly to easily make a good seal when they put their gas cap back on the vehicle.

Other Considerations

Another important cap on a vehicle is the radiator cap. The cap not only acts as a filling area to the radiator but is also a safety valve for the cooling system. In order for a vehicle to operate efficiently, a radiator cap must make a perfect seal because the most effective way of raising the boiling point of a fluid is to place it under pressure. If the pressure is reduced because the radiator cap does not seal properly then the vehicle will heat up very quickly.

Buying the Right Caps …

Radiator caps and gas caps can be purchased at any automotive parts store but it is wise not to purchase the cheapest ones but rather to find the one that is known to be the best. Ask for some help when you go to purchase your next gas or radiator cap.