What’s in Your Tank?
Although cases involving contaminated gasoline are relatively rare nowadays, they still occur. In many cases, technicians have 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,
Under the Hood: Five Generations of Duramax Diagnostics
The Duramax diesel brought GM back as a major player to the mid-size truck market by offering dependability, fuel mileage and quiet operation with plenty of power, says contributor Bob McDonald. While these engines have a great reputation, some problems are bound to arise.
Automotive Definitions
The following are key words and phrases used in articles that have run in Tomorrow’s Technician magazine. This helpful reference guide can be printed out and added to your class notes. We will continue to update this list.
Service Advisor: Reducing Problem Gases: Examining Ford’s EGR System
Typically, the Ford EGR system doesn’t require regular maintenance, but a valve that is clogged or sticks could result in the check engine light turning on, a decrease in gas mileage, a vehicle that idles roughly or fails the next emissions test. Then what?
Computer Engine Data Modes
Are you using a lab scope or a graphing multimeter in your shop? Learn how you can use your equipment more efficiently and effectively.
Under the Hood: Getting Revved Up for (Porsche) Boxster Engine Service
The Porsche Boxster is a little different in layout than most cars, even other Porsche cars. It has been around for more than 10 years and its mid-engine design has been refined to the point that it is more than just an entry-level vehicle.
Special Report: Predicting Failures Through Mode $06
For this article, we are going to be looking at test results from Ford’s mode $06.
Undercover: Herding Cats Can be ‘Exhaust’ing
Real life has proven that the life span of a catalytic converter varies as greatly as the life span of the vehicle itself. One catalytic converter may not fail in 200,000+ miles, while another won’t even make it out of the vehicle’s base warranty. One thing is for sure, they aren’t going away as long as vehicles are powered by fossil fuels. So let’s talk some about how they work, then move on to spotting one that is misbehaving.
February 2008 Pop Quiz
The following T2 Pop Quiz tests your knowledge of Electronic Fuel Injection. Choose the one answer that best completes the following statements or questions.
Futurauto – Engine Technology Techs Will See In The Bays
by Ed Sunkin
As you begin your career in the auto service industry, youll find that for the most part, the internal combustion engine (ICE) which has been around for more than 100 years hasnt changed much in theory. However, there have been many internal modifications to the ICEs design that has made it more fuel efficient in recent years, as the world tries to reduce its thirst for oil. To become a knowledgeable diagnostic technician, youll need to become familiar with these technologies and understand how to service them when a problem arises.