Automotive Archives - Page 150 of 179 - Tomorrows Technician
Torque And Runout: Measure Twice, Install Once

There are two critical measurements when installing a modern hub unit or cartridge bearing: torque and runout in the flange. Ignoring these critical numbers to save time will only lead to more comebacks and angry customers.

Mazda Truck TPMS Service Precautions

Do not use metal stem caps. Some vehicles may experience the aluminum valve stem (B) breaking off of the TPMS wheel unit (C) when removing aftermarket valve stem caps during procedures such as routine checking of air pressure in tires.

Contaminated Fuel Can Wreck Havoc On Fuel Delivery Systems

Although cases involving contaminated gasoline are relatively rare nowadays, they still occur. In many cases, the technician has replaced the fuel pump or mass air flow (MAF) sensor to address a P0171/P0174 “lean-condition” DTC with no result. In all likelihood, the technician didn’t consider the possibility that the vehicle’s fuel might be contaminated with E85 gasoline, diesel fuel, stale gasoline, or, to a lesser degree, sugar and water.

Conventional Or Synthetic Engine Oil? How To Choose The Right Motor Oil

In recent years, the variety of different motor oils that are now available to consumers has multiplied exponentially. To keep up with the lubrication requirements of all the different vehicle manufacturers, oil companies have had to expand their product lines to include new ultra-low, multi-viscosity, fuel-saving oils, as well as products with special additive packages for specific engine applications.

2007-2014 Ford Edge Brake Service

Protect the caliper piston and boots when pushing the caliper piston into the bores. Make sure that the caliper guide pin boots are fully seated, or damage to the caliper guide could occur.

Next Generation Start/Stop Systems

Although stop/start idle ­systems have been used on ­hybrid vehicles for many years, a growing number of non-­hybrid late-model import models are also being equipped with this fuel-saving technology.

Aluminum In The Paint Shop – What You Need To Know

There has been a lot of buzz since the 2015 Ford F-150 – largely comprised of aluminum – was released. And rightly so!

The Case Of The Missing Code On A Chevy Tahoe

The Tahoe’s owner complained that it would stall at highway speed, but it would always restart and usually proceed without further incident until it reached home.

13 Alternator And Battery Testing And Diagnostic Tips

If only battery voltage is present at the battery on a running engine, does this mean the alternator is “bad?” No, it does not. That only means that the alternator is not charging, but does not reveal why. Therefore, it does not prove a faulty ­alternator.

Getting Grounded: Positive And Negative Energy Sources

When it comes to electricity, there are two potential energy sources you have to keep in mind. One, being the positive side, and the other, the negative side.

How To Repair And Replace Brake Lines, Tubing And Fittings

Now more than ever, people are keeping their cars longer, new road de-icers are eating lines like never before, and brake line pressures are higher due to ABS and stability control systems. In short, today’s automotive landscape is a perfect storm for brake line replacement.

Body Shop: Fixing Dents In Aluminum

By now, we’ve all heard about aluminum repair and the cost of training and equipment. You all have your opinions on how feasible and viable it is. Many are evaluating whether it’s worth the money and time. I can’t answer these questions for you, since the variables are across the board. People tell me all the time that “It’s not hard, just different” does not apply. And I’m here to tell you it’s not hard, but it is different. Very different.