The Dynamic Alignment Perspective
One of the most difficult concepts for any technician to grasp is how alignment angles change when a vehicle is accelerating, braking and cornering. The view seen when the sensors and targets are on the vehicle in the alignment bay is just a small snapshot into the suspension’s geometry.
VIDEO: Tie Rod Replacement After Curb Strike
Andrew Markel explains the importance of replacing a bent tie rod with an OE quality replacement part.
VIDEO: HID Modules And The Infinite Resistance
Andrew Markel discusses the HID ballast module and how the internal construction of the bulbs can render diagnosis with a voltmeter useless.
VIDEO: Understanding Bias Voltage
Andrew Markel goes over bias voltage and how this startup process allows a handshake between modules and sensors.
VIDEO: The Evolution Of The Brake Light Switch
Andrew Markel discusses how a switch that formerly only operated the brake light evolved into a sensor that sends information to the rest of the vehicle based on pedal position.
Piecing Together The Air Ride Diagnostic Puzzle
Air ride diagnostics can be just as complex as any ABS or fuel injection problem. The diagnostic process should start with questions about the system rather than the parts.
VIDEO: Crankshaft Vibration And Belt Components
Andrew Markel reveals the details on crankshaft operation and how the power pulses cause vibration and stress on the belt and the components it is attached to.
Getting Better At Eliminating Brake Noise
If you are trying to eliminate a noise, you could try to stop it from moving the air around it. This is not possible with brakes because they do not operate in a vacuum and they cannot be separated from the vehicle.
VIDEO: Wheel Displacement Sensor Diagnostics
Andrew Markel discusses the wheel displacement sensor (or ride height sensor) and the modules these sensors communicate with in order to determine ride height.
VIDEO: The EVAP System: Development And Emissions Standards
Andrew Markel discusses the development of the EVAP system as emissions standards changed over time.
VIDEO: Factory Fill On Older Vehicles
Andrew Markel discusses the importance of factory fill, and why fluid specifications change after a car rolls off the line.
VIDEO: Modern Starters And Diagnostic Hammering
Andrew Markel tackles the age-old diagnostic technique of hitting the starter with a hammer, and the obvious disadvantages to doing so on starters in modern vehicles.
