De-Coding Diagnostic Scan Tool Codes
I like to take full advantage of the codes the manufacturers offer. One of the ways to do that is to understand what all those letters and numbers represent that are in a diagnostic trouble code. Each of the five digits actually has a purpose and can make the job of diagnosing a vehicle’s problem much easier for import technicians if they understand the breakdown of the code’s letters and numbers.
Engine Series: Cummins Diesel Powers Dodge For Nearly 25 Years
When you hear the name Cummins, what is the first thing that comes to mind? Most of the time, if you have any knowledge of trucks, a Dodge truck is the first thing that comes to mind. The Cummins diesel engine has always had a great reputation for reliable diesel power. Though the Cummins diesel engine can be found in many applications, it seems to obtain most of its credit from drivers of over the road trucks.
Tech Tip: Dodge Has A P2767 Code With Transmission In Limp In Mode
If you encounter a Dodge with a P2767 trouble code set, check the wiring between the transmission and the transmission control module. Make sure the #2 signal wire is not open, shorted to ground, or shorted to any other circuit. If the wiring checks OK, raise all four wheels off the ground, start the vehicle and place the shifter in drive. While lab scope testing the #2 signal wire, obtain second gear. When the transmission is in second gear, there should be a 5-volt square wave pattern being produced by the #2 sensor. If not, replace the sensor.
Tech Feature: Hall Effect Sensor Diagnostics
Hall effect crankshaft position (CKP) and camshaft position (CMP) sensors are critical components of an engine management system. The inputs they provide enable the powertrain control module (PCM) to determine engine speed and position including where a given cylinder is within the four-stroke cycle.
Tech Tip: Coil-On-Plug Misfire Diagnostic Tips For Ford/Lincoln/Mercury Engines
The misfiring cylinder must be identified through Self-Test misfire codes or through WDS Power Balance. Rule out base engine problems; rule out fuel problems; and then look at
ignition problems (be sure to rule out coil primary circuit issues).
Tech Tip: Don’t ‘Blow By’ PCV Inspections
Most emission control parts, like the PCV valve, require little if any scheduled maintenance, but replacement may be necessary if the Check Engine light is on, the vehicle has failed an emissions test or is experiencing a driveability problem. Other emission control components include the exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) valve, the evaporative emission control system (EVAP) vapor canister and purge valves, the catalytic converter, oxygen sensors and all of the engine’s other engine management sensors.
‘Exploring’ Service Needs On The Ford 4.0L V6 Engine
Rated at a rather anemic 210 horsepower, the 4.0L SOHC V6 is not exactly a high output engine. It also has an unusual overhead cam drive setup. Unlike most other OHC V6 and V8 engines that drive both overhead cams directly from the crankshaft with a belt or chain, this engine has an intermediate jackshaft in the middle of the block where a pushrod cam would normally be located.
Tech Tip: Honda Suffers From Hard Start/Long Crank Time
If a an owner of a 2003-’04 Honda Accord complains their vehicle is experiencing excessive cranking or hard starting, there are two possible causes – contamination in the fuel pressure regulator or exhaust gas backflow into the intake manifold at engine shutdown.
Tech Feature: Dissecting The Control Module – PCMs, TCMs And BCMs
With the complexity of automotive electrical systems increasing steadily, manufacturers have developed troubleshooting trees and strategies to make it easier for technicians to diagnose problems. These steps and strategies are very helpful for technicians when followed, but they can also prevent them from using their cognitive skills.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Approaching No-Code Diagnostics
Thanks to the increasing reliability of modern vehicles, most diagnostic technicians are seeing fewer pattern-failure driveability complaints. For that reason, many techs won’t gamble expensive shop time chasing an illusive no-code driveability complaint. Instead, many will write “no problem found” on the repair order and move on to the next vehicle. Unfortunately, at some point in time, the intermittent, no-code driveability will either be solved or the vehicle will be traded or sold for scrap.
Tech Feature: Controller Area Network (CAN) Bus Topology
At the typical repair shop, six-year-old vehicles (and there are 184 million of them on the road today) are some of the most common vehicles driving into the bays. And, since these vehicles are out of warranty, they will fuel service opportunities for the aftermarket and require more attention from independent repair shops like yours. In particular, one growing service area is diagnostics, especially as it relates to the expanding electronic content in today’s vehicles.
Fuel For Thought: A Study On The Causes Of Foul Fuel
In this study on the causes for foul fuel finding its way into your customer’s vehicle tank, we find that there are normally three reasons – refinery mistakes, poor