Servicing Solutions: GM’s Durable Duramax Diesel
General Motors launched the Duramax Diesel 6.6L V8 engine in the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500 Series trucks with Allison automatic transmissions in 2001. The application expanded to the Chevrolet Kodiak and GMC Topkick medium-duty trucks for 2003, with 16,000-, 18,000- and 19,500-lb. gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR). According to its engineers,
Mitch Schneider: ‘But, Daddy … I Swear I Wasn’t Speeding’
It must have been quite a sight – me sitting behind the counter staring at the computer screen, looking at the digital images, shaking my head in disbelief. After all, it isn’t every day you see a fairly late-model vehicle with the entire bottom of the undercarriage torn away. But, then again, I knew it was going to be ugly when one of my techs stuck his head in the office door and quietly said, "Hey, boss! You’d better come out here and take a look at this … Oh, yeah, and bring the digital!"
Choosing the Right Tools for Diesel Engine Service
Diesel engines are a popular alternative to gasoline engines because of their good fuel economy and torque. The main difference with working on diesels versus gasoline engines is that diesels have no ignition system. There are no spark plugs or ignition coils, but they do have glow plug start-up systems to help the fuel ignite when a cold engine is first cranked.
Diesel Engine Service, Tools & Equipment
Diesel engines are a popular alternative to gasoline engines because of their good fuel economy and torque. More than 55% of heavy-duty pickup trucks are now powered by diesel engines, as are 85% of Class 5 to 7 medium-duty trucks. The GM Duramax, Ford Powerstroke and Dodge Cummins Turbo Diesel engines represent the bulk of
Tech Tip: Worn A/T Differential Pinion Shaft on Nissan Vehicles
Debris from a worn differential pinion mate shaft can cause slipping on acceleration, hesitation and/or stalling when cold, and abnormal noise coming from the transmission while driving.
BMW Tech Tip: Ignition Lock Spins Freely
The ignition lock cylinder on E31, E36, E38 and E39 models built prior to January 1999 was designed with an actuating tab that breaks off if forcing of the lock is attempted with the wrong key, or with some form of tool as part of a vehicle theft effort.
Diagnostic Oddities
This article is dedicated to some Ford specific issues that, after being brought to light, can save your shop thousands of dollars in wasted time and liability. There may be some other makes out there with some similar designs and quirks, but the only technical references will be for Ford vehicles. By Glen Beanard Giddy
Carley’s Corner: Which Is Better, a Diesel or a Hybrid?
I received a call the other day from someone who wanted to know if I thought they should buy a Toyota Prius hybrid or a diesel-powered VW. Which is best? I said drive both cars, then buy the one you like the best. Hybrids and diesels are getting a lot of buzz these days as
Top Five Tools
Earle Kramer Jr., president Green Acres Automotive LLC Perkiomenville, PA Mac Tools’ Mac Mentor with Lab Scope — This is the best and most efficient scanner I have ever owned. ALLDATA — This is the most knowledgeable information system I have used. Smoke Pro Smoke Machine — This machine is cost effective and safe to
ProSoap Offers Autocarepro:news Readers Free Hand Cleaner Sample
ProSoap hand cleaner contains 17 interactive ingredients that are biodegradable, as well as a micro-plastic scrubber that is actually softer than skin. The concentrated paste formula saves customers money, outlasting other hand cleaners 3 to 1.