Volkswagen Feature: Don’t Miss Out On Missed Maintenance
“We don’t work on those V8s.” I’ve often heard that said in reference to the 4.2L VW and Audi 8 cylinders. Some criticisms are that the timing belts require too many special tools and you can’t see the engine. I hear a lot of excuses when it comes to V8 Audis and VWs, but, in reality, they are not much different than the V6s and most models don’t require too many special tools. There are many shops that don’t want to do a timing belt replacement on the 4.2 V8, but it’s time to buy the tools and stop sending good paying jobs to competitors.
Servicing Chrysler’s Versatile 3.3L And 3.8L Engines
These engines have a mixed reputation for being high-mileage, dependable powerplants as well as noisy motors that can fail at relatively low mileage. Some 3.3/3.8L V6s have racked up well over 200,000-plus miles on the odometer with no major problems (except some oil burning), while others have called it quits at 70,000 to 80,000 miles.
A/C Update: Compressor Inspection May Lead To Worn Clutch Problem
When a customer comes in complaining that their vehicle’s A/C system is working improperly, the problem can stem from a number of things. And the best way to begin any A/C repair is with a thorough inspection of the components. After checking components like the belts, the hoses and the related connections, the next step is a visual inspection of the A/C compressor.
VW/Audi Maintenance that Drives Profits
To say that Volkswagen and Audi Group (sometimes mistakenly referred to as VAG) is a large part of the automotive scene worldwide is a gross understatement. From basic transportation to record-setting performance cars, VAG is a recognized leader in innovation and cutting-edge technology. A broad spectrum of models has put a huge number (millions) of VAG models on the road in North America, and these cars will provide many years of potential repair and service opportunities. Getting to know the various models, repair techniques and a few shortcuts will help make repairs more routine and profitable.
CRP Automotive Introduces Timing Belt Mileage Guarantee Certificate
CRP Automotive has added an official Mileage Guarantee Certificate to every ContiTech Pro Series Timing Belt Kit. The guarantee, which CRP has been providing for several years, backs the ContiTech Pro Series Timing Belt Kits for the same period of time as the vehicle manufacturer’s suggested timing belt service interval and warrantees both the quality and reliability of the ContiTech Timing Belts and the key replacement components in the kits.
Dayco Launches Tech Notes on AccessDayco.com
Dayco has announced the launch of Dayco Tech Notes as the latest addition to AccessDayco.com. The company has developed and compiled technical information to help professional technicians and DIYers diagnose belt noise on some of the most demanding drives in the market.
Tech Feature: Straight Up Look at the Vortec 3500 Straight-Five Engine
The five-cylinder was seen as a way to achieve better fuel economy and performance than the six, but with more power and torque than the four.
Tech Feature: Toyota V8 Timing Belt Service
When I first started researching this article, I called and stopped by several shops that do work on Toyota vehicles. I asked if any of them had any V8 models coming in for timing belts so I could get some pictures of the process. Either a blank stare, or a question like: “What Toyota V8?” was the general response. The idea that there was a Toyota V8 needing a timing belt replacement seems to be generally unknown in the aftermarket.
Tech Feature: Family Ties – Servicing Chrysler’s Versatile 3.3L and 3.8L Engines
First introduced as a family back in 1990, these engines have been upgraded and improved to provide good torque for the necessary applications, reasonable fuel economy and a reputation for durability and appropriate performance.
Engine Maintenance: Timing Belt Replacement on Lexus GS 300s
Recommended replacement intervals for timing belts are all over the map these days. Mileage and time suggestions can vary widely, so examine accessory belts and factor in the use of the car and its maintenance history. In this article, we’ll discuss timing belt replacement on a 2001 Lexus GS 300 model with the 2JZ-GE engine.