The Top Automotive Aftermarket News Stories of 2008
For the fifth year in a row, the editorial staff of aftermarketNews has selected what it determined to be the most significant events to impact the automotive aftermarket in the past year.
Under the Hood: Short on Time – Compact Engine Timing Belt Service
As a rule, General Motors uses timing chains rather than timing belts on most of its engines. Timing chains are long-lived and reliable, and do not have a recommended replacement interval. But, not so with timing belts. One GM engine that does use a rubber timing belt is the 1.6L E-TECH II engine in the 2004 and up Chevrolet Aveo. We take a look at timing belt procedures for this and similar compact engines.
Becoming Attuned to Engine Sounds
When correctly interpreted, engine noise can be a very valuable diagnostic tool.
Engine Series: Restoring a Vehicle to Like-New Performance
Power to the People: An independent repair shop has a handful of engine replacement options available: a used engine, a quality rebuilt, a remanufactured or new OE engine.
Crossword Puzzle: April 2008
Across 1. Clutch-assembly component (8,5) 8. Volatile substance in quick-start fluid 9. Engine-friction reducer 10. Central element in planetary gearset (3,4) 11. The T in dragstrip E.T. 13. Engine design 15. Gasoline-rating term 18. Irksome tire trouble 20. Roller-bearing adjective
15 Ride Control Tips
Tips That Will Help You Sell a Ride Control Job – and Do it Right
Service Advisor: BRAKING BAD
Fixing A GM Brake Noise
Crossword Puzzle: February 2008
Across 1. Disc-brake components 5. Oil-burning engine’s exhaust color 9. Glossy, polished cylinder-wall surface 10. Radiator liquid 11. Hand tool with square, beveled edge 12. Front-wheel-alignment adjustment (3-2) 14. Divided-highway access path 16. Engine manifold adjective 19. Transmission shaft adjective 21. Partners of 1-Across items 24. Service-bay assignments 25. Vital Snowbelt vehicles 26. Workbench-mounted
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.
Strut Your Knowledge of Ball Joints
Adapted from Gene Markel’s article in Brake & Front End