Tech Tip: Rough Idle on 1990-’92 Cadillacs
Some 1990-’92 DeVilles, Fleetwoods, Eldorados and Sevilles may experience an intermittent rough idle condition. To determine the cause of this condition, use the diagnotic procedure detailed in the following tech tip.
Tech Tip: Catalytic Converters Play an Important Role in the Emissions-Compliant Engine
The design and function of catalytic converters has changed dramatically since their introduction in 1975. The first "two-way" catalytic converters were oxidizing-only designs that combined hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) with oxygen to form water vapor (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Oxidizing converters were originally manufactured in pellet bed or monolithic "honeycomb" styles. Currently, the monolithic style has proven to be the most durable.
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.
Tech Tip: ‘Beemer’ Steamer – BMW Hose Leak
Without warning, our otherwise tranquil morning was interrupted by a horrendous screech of brakes, as a late-model, metallic blue BMW M3 slid into the service drive. Steam was billowing out from underneath the engine compartment.
Diagnostic Solutions: Catalytic Converters
The design and function of catalytic converters has changed dramatically since their introduction in 1975. The first “two-way” catalytic converters were oxidizing-only designs that combined hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) with oxygen to form water vapor (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Oxidizing converters were originally manufactured in pellet bed or monolithic “honeycomb” styles. Currently,
TDI Driveability: Carbon Plugging of the Intake System
Volkwagen has been selling diesel-powered cars in the U.S. for almost 30 years. Turbocharged versions have been available for 25. That is a lot of experience and a testament to the development of a reliable, efficient and durable powerplant. The introduction and development of the TDI (turbocharged direct injection) brought the VW diesel into the
Dodge Tech Tip: Hard or No Start During Cool Weather
Some owners of Dodge Caravans may complain of hard or no start during cool weather, with hard fault code 22 in memory (non-magnum engines). This condition can be caused by defective coolant temperature sensor (CTS) wiring connections.
Gear Clash: Courting Trouble
Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth?” “Yes.” “Be seated.” This was the second time I had been summoned to court to tell the side of our repair shop in a civil case of a customer against my employer; the same employer each time. This was also
Down the Road: Advances in Engine Technology
Two engine technologies that have been around for years are generating plenty of interest these days as the automakers look to create better fuel efficiency, without sacrificing power — direct injection for gasoline engines and turbocharging. Direct injection for gasoline engines is where fuel is injected right into the combustion chamber of each cylinder, as
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