Oil Pumps & the Engine’s Lubrication System
p can restore gear-to-gear clearances but not gear-to-housing clearances. The end plate that covers the pump often develops a heavy wear pattern that is most noticeable on the outlet gear side. Regrinding the face of the plate smooth can restore end play tolerances between the plate and gears but it can’t compensate for wear inside
Always Inspect Hardware During Brake Repairs
Though it isn’t required, many brake experts recommend replacing the drum hardware when the brakes are relined to restore the brakes to like-new condition. But often the hardware isn’t replaced because it doesn’t seem necessary. Unless the hardware is badly corroded or shows obvious signs of stress, like severe heat discoloration or other visible damage,
The Ins and Outs of Diagnosing Battery, Charging and Starter Problems
You answer the phone and the voice on the other end says, “My car won’t start.” When temperatures drop, the no-start calls start pouring in. Cold weather increases the strain on the battery, starting and charging system and tends to bring out any weaknesses in these components. Cold weather thickens the oil and makes the
GM Timing Belt & Chain Service
Some overhead cam engines in General Motors vehicles use timing belts to drive the cam (the 2.0L for example), some use chains (2.3L Quad Four, Cadillac’s Northstar dual overhead cam 4.6L V8, the Aurora Northstar 4.0L V8 and Chevy’s Vortec 4200 inline six), and some use a combination of both (Chevrolet’s 3.4L V6). The rest
CO2 Systems Will Breathe New Life Into A/C Designs
SAE to work with the industry and the EPA to create efficient, environmentally sound automotive refrigerant systems, but how will it affect technicians and repair shop profits? The Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE) recently announced a cooperative research program that will work with the industry and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to develop and
Carburetor Repairs & Recalibrations
As a follow-up to “Dusting Off Fuel System Fossils” in April’s edition of Underhood Service, I will share many driveability concerns and emissions failures that I’ve repaired by rebuilding, and sometimes modifying, certain carb circuits. But before diving into a carburetor rebuild or recalibration, be certain that you understand the system you’re working on, including
Confronting the Complete Cooling System Service
By now, it’s obvious to most service shops that cooling system service is an absolute “must-do” on any nameplate. Once a cooling system suffers long-term neglect, it turns into an ongoing source of problems for the owner and his service technician because, when corrosion starts to take place, the effects can’t be reversed. For that
Getting “Tuned” Into Exhaust System Service Opportunities
Although stainless steel exhaust systems have reduced the number of exhaust system replacements, it’s important to remember that regular exhaust system inspections remain an integral part of import service. When inspecting an exhaust system, remember that the exhaust pipe and muffler must: Help “tune” the engine for peak performance; Reduce noise to legal levels; Meet
Muscling in on Restoration Work: Part 2
There’s a hot trend in the automotive aftermarket to return car owners to the past. Literally. Today, aging baby boomers are spending big money on “recapturing the rapture” of the cars of their youth. Just turn on your television any evening and you’re sure to find some type of automotive program on the cable and
Untitled
ls, appear to be the next generation of fuel injection for gasoline engines. The reasons for implementing this technology are legislative, and also include market requirements that drive the need to reduce fuel consumption, while at the same time, meet the increasingly stringent exhaust emissions regulations. According to engineers at Delphi Corp., gasoline direct injection