Variable Valve Timing
One of the ways automakers squeeze more horsepower and torque from an engine is by adding variable valve timing (VVT) to the valvetrain. A conventional camshaft has fixed valve lift, duration and timing; so, the grind is always a compromise between fuel economy, performance and emissions. But with VVT, duration, valve overlap and timing can be changed on the go to optimize engine performance at different RPM, loads and operating conditions.
Autonomous Vehicles And Safety Technology
Recently, I had the opportunity to participate in an event of my own that was a mixture of Jurassic Park and the Jetsons. The Motor Equipment Manufacturer’s Association (MEMA) presented a Ride-and-Drive in Washington, D.C. where repair industry professionals, policymakers and manufacturers of cutting-edge vehicle safety systems got a chance to glimpse into the very near future.
Engine Design: A Changing Diagnostic Approach
Modern propulsion technology requires high-speed data processing systems. For that reason, our relearning process actually began when CAN bus electronic systems were introduced by Mercedes-Benz circa 1990.
GF-6 Oil Specification: What It Means For Your Shop
The Obama Administration finalized fuel economy standards in 2012 designed to increase fuel efficiency standards to 54.5 mpg for passenger cars and light-truck applications by 2025. This push for greater efficiency, reduced greenhouse gas emissions and better energy security set in motion the need for an improved motor oil capable of superior lubricant performance. The
Installing Spark Plugs: Avoid Misfires
The potential for inadvertently creating a misfire is very real when installing new spark plugs. I say this because I’ve diagnosed many misfires created by greasy fingerprints, broken insulators and incorrect air gaps — all caused by poor installation procedures. But nothing is as simple as installing a spark plug, right?
Bench Testing Can Reveal If The Alternator Is The Problem
Today’s computer-controlled charging systems tailor the charging rate not only to the electrical demands on the battery and alternator, but also to changing driving conditions. That makes diagnosis much more difficult when something goes wrong.
A/C Service With The New R-1234yf Refrigerant
The most recent statistics show that 18 U.S. vehicles and 47 production lines are factory-equipped with R-1234yf, the new worldwide refrigerant that has entered the U.S. market. The statistics also show that in Europe, 83 production lines and 33 vehicles are already equipped with the new refrigerant. There are currently no Asian vehicles with R-1234yf, but Toyota has the equipment, so it will be coming soon.
Fuel Pump Pressure: What Can Affect Fuel Flow
All too often, technicians assume fuel pressure is “good” without actually measuring it with a gauge. If the engine runs, they assume the injectors are getting adequate fuel pressure. If the engine cranks but won’t start, and they depress the service valve on the fuel rail and some fuel squirts out, they assume the injectors have pressure. They do, but the question remains: how much pressure?
Conventional Or Synthetic Engine Oil? How To Choose The Right Types Of Motor Oil
In recent years, the variety of different motor oils that are now available to consumers has multiplied exponentially. It’s more important than ever before to make sure you choose the correct motor oil for your customers’ vehicles. Using the wrong oil may cause problems, as well as void the OEM powertrain warranty.
Cartridge Oil Filter Replacement: 10 Installation Tips
An oil change is probably one of the least expensive services your shop offers, but it has the possibility to result in one of the most expensive comebacks if a mistake is made. Cartridge oil filters make potential mistakes more likely because they require more knowledge and tools to properly change the oil than a
Precious Metal Spark Plugs: Looking at the Science
Behind every kind of technical innovation that drives the automotive world into the future is a wealth of science and engineering that makes such innovation possible. The emergence of precious metal spark plugs is no different.
Diagnostic Solutions: AGM Batteries And Testing
Two of the greatest changes we’ve seen in starting/charging systems during the past few model years have been the expanded use of the Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) battery as standard equipment and the accelerating pricing structures of both AGM and conventional flooded-cell batteries.
