Jake Venter
Jake is an expert on the technical aspects of motoring. He spent 10 years working as an engineer at Chrysler SA and was CAR magazine's technical editor for 16 years. He also dabbled in teaching for a while and spent 6 months as a shepherd. He is now a freelance journalist.
New JAC Motors double-cab series on its way
From electric to diesel, these big, beefy vehicles will come in several versions, each showing that, when it comes to bakkies at least, size really does matter to customers.
How to reduce automotive pollution
Fuel combustion produces several hazardous by-products. The modern catalytic converter neutralises most of these effectively. Jake Venter discusses the pollutant problem.
The basics of bakkie maintenance
A surprising number of farmers do not take the trouble to learn more about their vehicles. You can save time and money by getting to know the basics or even tackling the job yourself. Jake Venter explains the essentials, and how to identify a few potential problems.
Tips for buying a good second-hand bakkie
After months of searching for a second-hand bakkie, you suddenly find yourself in someone’s yard looking at a potential buy. It’s gleaming in the sun, the price is tempting, and it seems a great buy, but is it? Jake Venter can help you decide.
How to service your JMC
A bike’s tyre pressure and condition are even more important than on a car. Jake Venter explains the different chain types and how to maintain them.
How does a car battery work?
The battery has been around for 200 years, and has essentially changed little. Jake Venter explores this brilliant device that is integral to the motor industry.
Choosing the best tyres for your bakkie
Tar road, dirt road, off-road. Mud, sand and rocks. Wet and dry. No single tyre copes well under all conditions. So how do you choose a tyre for your bakkie or 4x4? Jake Venter offers advice.
A look at VW and its bakkies
Volkswagen’s success is legendary. Beginning in 1937 with its remarkable Beetle, the company has grown to become a global giant.
Wheel alignment: straight answers
There’s more to wheel rotation than a rubber-clad disc spinning around an axle. Jake Venter unravels the mysteries of camber, toe and caster
Counterfeit automotive parts
The motoring industry is awash with dodgy spare parts. Don’t become a victim, says Jake Venter.
Isuzu in the spotlight
General Motors has pulled out of South Africa, but Isuzu, with its legendary KB bakkies, is here to stay.
The electric car: not squeaky clean
An electric car is environmentally expensive to manufacture, and its ‘fuel’ is only as clean as the nearest power station.
The need for variable valve timing
Air has inertia, which creates breathing problems in an engine with traditional fixed valve timing. Many of today’s engines employ variable valve timing to solve this difficulty, explains Jake Venter.
Testing tyres in the wet and dry
A professional tyre test takes place in wet and dry conditions and is measured exactly, says Jake Venter.
How to ruin a car without trying
Common sense will help to ensure years of trouble-free motoring. Lack of it can have disastrous results, says Jake Venter.
What causes a car to catch fire?
Usually, it’s a fuel or oil leak, or an electrical short. And the problem often starts with poor maintenance.
Buying a 4WD vehicle second-hand
Before you’re tempted to snap up that bargain-priced second-hand 4WD, check it carefully! These vehicles are more complex and usually punished harder than ordinary cars.
Ford Tourneo Connect test
Spacious, comfortable and economical, the Ford Tourneo Connect has much to offer as a family vehicle. Jake Venter had a closer look at two of the four models, and came away impressed.
Ranger XL-Plus: seriously tough
The Ford 4x4 one-tonner is even more capable than the XL, says Jake Venter.
Ford Ranger test drive
Jake Venter takes the Ford Ranger 3,2-litre Tdci XLT through its paces.
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