Tech Tip: Nissan Brake/ABS Service Essentials
While you may be very familiar with brake repair and service, it’s never a bad idea to look at even the most routine job, since ABS has certainly redefined the problems we encounter as well as the changed the way in which we maintain this important system.
Tech Tip: Oil Pan Leakage in Ford Engines
The AERA technical committee offers the following information regarding a revised oil pan gasket and installation kit for 1986-2001 Ford 3.0L VIN U engines. The issue of continued oil pan leakage has prompted this new installation kit.
Tech Tip: How Engine Oil Becomes Engine Sludge
Fresh engine oil is a clear, free-flowing liquid blend of base stock and additives that contains no fuel, water, coolant, dirt or other contaminants. In engines that have failed prematurely, the oil has very often been transformed into a high viscosity deposit of brown or black goo, commonly referred to as "sludge."
Tech Tip: Rust and Corrosion May Be Culprit When Signs Point to Faulty DIS Modules
A vehicle towed into a shop is a "no start." Preliminary troubleshooting leads a technician to suspect the culprit may be a faulty DIS (Distributorless Ignition System) module. So the module is bench tested using the ignition module tester, but the results show the component seems to be working fine. The DIS module is placed back on the vehicle and the troubleshooting continues.
Tech Tip: Knocking Noise Coming From Isuzu’s A/C System
A knocking noise coming from the A/C system of a 1992 Rodeo (UC) model (produced before 12/16/91, equipped with factory- or port-installed air conditioning), when the A/C is running may indicate that the A/C system is overcharged.
Tech Tip: Curing Exhaust System Buzz on Acura Integras
A buzz from the exhaust system between 3,500 and 3,600 rpm can be caused because the flexible joint connections in the exhaust system have insufficient spring tension.
Tech Tip: Chevy Blazer’s Engine May Rattle Between 1,800 and 2,200 rpm
The spark, rattle-type noise may be caused by torsional vibration of the balance shaft. If detonation noise is present, perform detonation/spark knock diagnostics first.
Tech Tip: ASC Reminds Technicians that Mazda Water Pump Twins are not Identical
When referring to a catalog, whether OEM or aftermarket, a technician will find two different part numbers for a water pump for the Mazda MPV V6 3.0 liter: one for model years 1989 to 1995 (Pump A) and one for model years 1996 to 1998 (Pump B). No problem, right? Where the problem lies is the transition between 1995 and 1996 models where the vehicle could be equipped with either pump. If the wrong pump is installed, it can lead to a big headache.
Tech Tip: Alternator Diagnosis – High-Draw Accessories Merit Changes in Test Procedures
Electrical demand varies according to vehicle application and use, so engineers build an alternator that will meet the average accessory demand of any particular vehicle and still have enough reserve capacity to keep the battery charged. If electrical demand is increased by adding accessories, the potential ability of the alternator to recharge the vehicle’s battery is practically reduced to zero.
Tech Tip: Curing Isuzu Rear Brake Squeal/Shudder Experienced While Backing Up
Customers with a 1995.5-1997 Rodeo (UC) equipped with 4-wheel disc brakes may complain of the rear brakes squealing or shuddering as they back up the vehicle. This condition occurs without applying the brakes and may be caused by misadjustment of the parking brake assembly.
Tech Tip: Clutch Replacements – Don’t Turn Them Away
Clutch replacement does not have the prestige of driveability diagnostics, but at times, it pays better. Some shops turn away clutch replacements in fear of comebacks and lost productivity. But, clutch replacement offers the shop opportunities to sell additional services that might slip past the bottom line.
Volkswagen Tech Tip: Humming Noise From Front of Vehicle During Cornering
A humming sound coming from the general area of the front end may be noticeable on 1998 Beetles during slow-speed turning with the steering wheel almost to the full turning position. The noise may be generated from the differential spider gear contacting the one-piece thrust washer under load. In addition, the noise goes away when the steering wheel is returned to the center position.