CARE OF THE CARRIAGE. 399 



be little occasion to do more than to rub it with the 

 leather, 



6. The top may, when necessary, be washed by the 

 same process as has been recommended for the body, and 

 with the same care. 



Having cleaned the carriage in every part, replaced the 

 cushions, and rolled up the curtains, throw a muslin sheet 

 over it to keep dust from it. 



If the carriage has not been out since it was washed 

 before, it will only be necessary to wet it thoroughly, and 

 to dry it as directed. 



This is the best method for washing the best carriages. 

 It may be, and in most instances it probably will be, mod- 

 ified to suit the purposes of those who do not care to de- 

 vote so much labor to this work ; and in all such questions 

 of object and expense, the judgment of the individual 

 must establish the compromise. 



At least once a month place a wrench on every nut on 

 your carriage. You will thus prevent the loss of nuts and 

 bolts, and preserve your carriage ; a loose bolt frequently 

 leads to serious breakages. 



As often as once a month, and oftener if necessary, the 

 wheels should be taken off, and the axles and boxes should 

 be thoroughly cleaned, by scraping them with a sharp- 

 edged piece of hard wood, covered with flannel or 

 woollen. They should then, if full-patent axles, receive 

 as much sweet oil, or pure sperm oil, as they will retain 

 without allowing it to work out over the wheel. One 

 tablespoonful to each wheel will be a good quantity. 



When your leather washers are worn out, replace them 

 with new ones. A patent axle running with worn out 

 washers will soon be good for nothing. 



For the half-patent axle, clean lard, or other grease, or 

 any of the patent wagon-greases, will be found as effective 

 as oil, and more permanent. 



