Alternator Ripple Testing: The Ghost In The Machine
Before computers and networks in vehicles, an alternator that was producing AC voltage or ripple through the electrical system would cause flickering lights and maybe an ignition problem.
Cranky Crankshaft Seals
Sometimes the least expensive parts are the most time-consuming to replace. This is the case with crankshaft oil seals.
Curing Intercooler Condensation And Oiling Issues
The combination of a turbocharged, small displacement package pays off in improved fuel efficiency and lower emissions, but some tradeoffs may require extra maintenance or runaround solution for an OE issue on specific engines.
Servicing R1234yf: Are You Ready?
R-1234yf, tabbed the replacement for R-134a, has been in service now for a few years on certain models of vehicles from FCA and GM to several European models.
Specialty Wheel Alignments And Parts
While the alignment is perfect when it rolls out of the factory, what happens when it starts to age and the body and cradle start to settle?
What Techs Will Have To Worry About With GF-6 Oils
Technicians who perform oil changes in the future will need to pay extra close attention to what they’re putting in the vehicle.
Diagnosing Throttle-By-Wire Problems
The main reason for the switch to Throttle-By-Wire (TBW) or Drive-by-Wire is that it allows the ECM to work in harmony with other engine control systems such as cruise control, traction control, torque management and stability control.
2013 Nissan Pathfinder Brake Job (Fourth Gen)
The Pathfinder’s brake layout is relatively straightforward with ABS and Traction Control on all four wheels. The system switches fluid pressure of each brake caliper to increase, hold or decrease via signals from the control unit in the ABS actuator and electric control unit.
Diagnosing Turbo Boost And Leak Problems
You are probably seeing more turbocharged four-cylinder engines. Domestic manufacturers like GM and Ford have powered a wide variety of cars and SUVs with small displacement turbo engines. Also, import manufacturers like BMW, Nissan and VW use turbos on base engines and high-performance engines. Turbos are not a new trend; many applications have been on the roads for more than a decade.
Brake Pad & Rotor Matching
Many techs believe that installing new pads and rotors is the solution to brake noise and vibration, and that installing new parts makes everything perfectly aligned so that no other steps are needed to bring the system back to service. Well, this is true and false.
Secondary Air Injection Tips
Secondary air injection can be supplied actively from an electric air pump or passively from pulse pressure in the exhaust system. In a passive/pulse system, air is drawn in when a valve opens from vacuum created through exhaust flow. In an active system, air is blown from an electric pump, which allows for better control.
Don’t Fear The Turbo
The turbocharger gets a bad rap. So many technicians can name reasons why they have failed in the past, yet they can’t recall when or why a turbocharger has failed recently. With more and more vehicles employing a turbocharger to achieve power and fuel efficiency from a downsized engine, the importance of maintenance is more critical than ever.
