Point of View: New Technologies Drive New Tool Needs
I recently returned from Carefree, AZ, where the Equipment & Tool Institute held its ToolTech 2008, a conference that brings together many premier U.S. tool manufacturers with car companies and other interested parties to discuss current and future tool needs for the automotive world. Representatives from Ford, General Motors, Toyota, Mazda, Honda, ISN, Medco, SPX,
Tech Tip: Not All Power Steering Fluids Are Created Equal
Having trouble with power steering pumps failing prematurely? Not sure why? We might have a simple answer for you – power steering fluid. Read on, you might be surprised. Recently, a service dealer called CARDONE’s Technical Hotline regarding a premature failure issue with power steering pumps ….
Tech Tip: Uncovering the Cause of a Sinking, Low or Spongy Brake Pedal
To diagnose a sinking, low or spongy brake pedal, begin by isolating the master cylinder. Remove the lines from the master cylinder and insert blocking plugs into the ports. Press on the brake pedal. If the pedal is firm and hard, the master cylinder is good. If the pedal still drops, either air is in the unit or it is bypassing internally. Bleed the unit or ….
Tech Tip: Uncovering Cause of Poor Driveability After Electronic Control Computer has been Replaced
Many computer-controlled vehicles memorize and store operation patterns that are lost when battery power is disconnected. The computer will use default data until a number of drive cycles have been memorized. To correct this problem the computer must go through a relearn procedure ….
Tech Tip: In-Tank Electric Fuel Pump May Cause Buzzing Noise in Radio Speakers
After replacing the alternator, customers may complain about a hum, whine or buzzing noise that is heard through the speakers of the vehicle radio or two-way radio when the fuel pump runs. The in-tank electric fuel pump may be the cause of the electrical noise.
News Update: Automotive Distribution Network Announces ‘Repair America’ Sweepstakes Winners
Parts Plus has announced the major prize winners of the “Repair America” sweepstakes promotion for professional service dealers. Throughout June and July, when service dealers were given the opportunity to win prizes in this special promotion, more than 62,000 entries were returned to headquarters, with an additional 7,500 entered online through www.partsplus.com. The winner of
GM Tech Tip: Solving Crunching Noise During Low-Speed Turning
Vehicle owners may complain of a crunch and/or popping sound during low-speed turning. The lower control arm may be striking the steering knuckle during full-turn type maneuvers, causing the crunch sound. Slight movement between the steering gear attaching bolt threads and the frame rail inboard steering gear attaching holes may cause the popping sound.
Tech Tip: Diagnosing a Slow Cranking Starter or No Crank at All
A slow cranking starter or no crank at all may be caused by a faulty ground that prevents full voltage to the starter motor. Most people assume the starter is grounded because it is bolted to the engine. However, that does not mean it’s grounded properly. The combination of road dirt, salt corrosion, engine heat and vehicle age can prevent a good starter-to-engine ground (metal-to-metal contact).
Tech Tip: Diagnosing a Crunch or Popping Sound During Low-Speed Turning
Some vehicle owners may experience a crunch and/or popping sound during low-speed turning. This can be caused by the lower control arm striking the steering knuckle during full-turn type maneuvers, causing the crunch sound. Slight movement between the steering gear attaching bolt threads and the frame rail inboard steering gear attaching holes may cause the popping sound.
Tech Tip: Diagnosing a Sinking, Low or Spongy Brake Pedal
To diagnose a sinking, low or spongy brake pedal, begin by isolating the master cylinder. Remove the lines from the master cylinder and insert blocking plugs into the ports. Press on the brake pedal. If the pedal is firm and hard, the master cylinder is good. If the pedal still drops, either air is in the unit or it is bypassing internally. Bleed the unit or replace as necessary. Reconnect and bleed the system.