Tech Feature: Hemisphere Exploration – Journey to the Center of the 5.7L Hemi
The 5.7L HEMI Magnum V8, which made its debut in 2003 in Dodge Ram 2500/3500 series trucks, was quite an improvement over the older 5.9L V8 it replaced. The engine was 56 lbs. lighter, produced 41% more horsepower and 12% more torque than the previous motor. Better yet, it also delivered 8-10% better fuel economy.
Brake Pad Bedding – Adding a Little Seasoning to the Rotor
One of the most controversial topics involving brake repair is where noise comes from and what can be done to prevent it. All brake noise starts at the point where the pad and rotor make contact. Every squeak, chirp and groan has its origins at the interface between these two components and how it is expressed through the rest of the car.
Tech Feature: The DeLorean – Back From the Past
The DeLorean was often referred to as “the ethical sports car,” leading to the relatively small V6 engine and stainless-over-fiberglass construction with good fuel economy and long life in mind.
Tech Feature: General Motor’s Ecotec 2.0L Turbo Engine
General Motors introduced its powerful Ecotec 2.0L direct
Engine Tech Feature: Choosing the Right Fasteners for the Job
Some of the most stressed-out parts of a high-dollar
Using OBD II Diagnostics to Communicate with Your Customer’s Volkswagen
This article is about communication faults and problems that have occurred on Volkswagens over the last 10-plus years. Many of the same problems still exist on the newest models, but as these vehicles age, get repaired or damaged, problems come up that can challenge even the very best technicians.
Closing the Gap on Intake Manifold Gaskets
Back in the days when most engines had cast iron blocks, heads and manifolds, the intake manifold could be easily sealed with simple and relatively inexpensive die cut fiber faced metal gaskets (solid or perforated core). Sealer was usually required to ensure a leak-free installation.
Finding Check Engine Light Culprits on Nissan Models
This month, we’ll be taking a look at the Nissan line and some of the common causes for the check engine light to be lit, as well as some of the driveability problems that may result.
Diagnosing A/C Systems with Automatic Climate Control
Diagnosis is often the biggest challenge, especially if the cause of a no-cooling problem is not obvious. Is it the refrigeration circuit, an electrical problem or a control issue?
Tech Feature: Where Do You Start with Mercedes No-Start Diagnostics?
Hundreds of times a year, repair shops will get cars brought to them to repair a “No Start” fault. This article is going to discuss the process that it takes to make repairs when there are so many variables. Though this article will be focused on Mercedes-Benz, the steps can be used for any make or model.
Gearing Up for Timing Belt and Chain Work
Timing belts are a maintenance item on engines that have them, but what about timing chains? On most overhead cam engines that use a timing chain to turn the cams, there’s usually some type of chain tensioner or adjuster to keep the chain tight and to compensate for stretch as the chain ages. But on pushrod V6 and V8 engines, there is no chain tensioner to compensate for chain stretch. Consequently, after tens of thousand of miles, the chain loosens up, starts to make noise as it rattles against the front cover, and causes cam timing to retard. At this point the timing chain needs to be replaced.
Tech Feature: Returnless Fuel Injection Systems
If you’ve tried to find the fuel pressure regulator on many late-model engines by looking in the engine compartment, you won’t find it there because the regulator has been relocated to the fuel tank. Engines with “returnless” electronic fuel injection (EFI) systems have the regulator inside the fuel tank. The regulator is part of the fuel pump assembly and is usually located downstream of the in-tank fuel filter.