Flexing Rocker Arm Muscle
How a Time Tested Technology Has Provided Proven Performance
Tech Tip: Gaskets from Different Eras Vary Quite a Bit from More Modern Vehicles
When selling engine gaskets, the modern parts professional is often faced with a dizzying array of gasket technologies. The difference in gasket technologies among a ’50s-model pickup truck, a ’60s-vintage, high-compression muscle car and a modern bi-metal or aluminum engine is often quite dramatic.
Tech Feature: Don’t Be Restrained from Servicing Airbag Systems
Airbags, along with other components of safety restraint systems, are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and misinformation can spread like wildfire. Here’s what you need to know to restore them to OEM standards.
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: How the $99 Brake Job is Killing Your Shop
Ever since the first issue of BRAKE & FRONT END in 1931, the magazine has fought the fight against price point brake jobs and the inferior materials that are inevitably installed as part of the job. During this period in the Great Depression, you could get all four brakes relined for $19.99 (springs and hardware extra).
Solving Common Honda Driveability Problems
One of the common check engine light problems you’ll encounter on Hondas is a misfire code with no apparent misfire. Many times, this problem will be traced back to tight valve lash. Obviously, a tight valve will pass the audible test every time. But, it’s the tight valves that will set the check engine light in the best case, and if it’s ignored long enough you’ll be looking at a low-compression situation caused by a burnt valve.
Component Connection: Manifold Destiny
As engine designs continue to evolve, so do the gaskets that the auto makers use to seal the cylinder heads to the intake manifold.
Tech Feature: Performing the Complete Brake Job
The problem with routines is that we tend to – you guessed it – fall into a routine. Because the braking system on many modern imports is integrated into other systems like vehicle stability control (VSC) and traction control, modern braking systems must meet minimum levels of performance. For that reason alone, short-cutting a brake repair with substandard procedures and materials is a recipe for future comebacks.
Tech Feature: Mazda6 and Mazda3 Driveability Diagnostics and Electronic Throttle Control
Drive-by-wire throttle control systems are pretty much trouble-free but have to be taken into consideration as you perform routine service and diagnose problems, and it changes the way you service these cars when it comes to cleaning the throttle plates, advises Bob Dowie, import specialist contributor, who also covers electronic throttle control’s tie in with ABS and VSC systems.
Diagnostic Solutions: Air and Fuel Filter Maintenance
Although air and fuel filter maintenance is usually considered a “no-brainer” by most import repair shops, advancing technology is changing the way we should be performing air and fuel filter maintenance.