GM Tech Tip: Electronic Power Steering Gear Leaks
On GM vehicles with electric power steering starting in 2009, you may see grease or sealant on certain locations of the steering gear.
Toyota Sienna Alignment Service
When aligning this vehicle, there are three things you should know. First, a Sienna with stability control will require a recalibration of the steering angle sensor. Second, rear tire wear can be a problem on some AWD Siennas. Third, measure the ride height before trying to correct a front caster problem.
Consulting On Coilover Conversions
There are several ways to restore and upgrade a suspension. Engineers spend a lot of time tuning the springs and valving of the suspension to give an acceptable ride and handling characteristics to a broad audience.
10 Alignment Tips To Help You See Past The Angles
Suspension angles are dynamic. As the body moves, the camber, caster and toe will change in the front and rear. OEMs tune these angles for the best tire wear and stability at a set ride height. If a spring is weak or missing a coil, the alignment angles will be off from these calculations.
Air Ride Diagnostics: Dodge Ram 1500
The secret to diagnosing problems comes down to knowing what criteria the system uses to regulate the compressor/reservoir and having a scan tool that can interpret the information.
Post-Collision Alignment: Working All The Angles
Collisions with potholes, curbs and other vehicles are inevitable. While damage to the body is easy to spot, damage to the suspension and the safety systems can be challenging to detect.
EPS Steering Assist
Modern electric power steering (EPS) steering gears are inextricably linked with body and chassis control electronics, which is a very good reason for an alignment technician to develop a working relationship with a modern, enhanced scan tool.
Mazda Tech Tip: Whining Noise From Automatic Transaxle
Some customers may complain of a whining noise from the automatic transaxle when driving at 10 mph and above. The noise depends on the vehicle’s speed (the more speed, the more noise). The noise also occurs with all types of driving (acceleration, deceleration and steady speed).
Torque-To-Yield Suspension Components
Despite what you may believe about the properties of metal, bolts are actually elastic. It’s not quite Stretch Armstrong dramatic, but when you tighten a critical bolt to specs, you’re actually pulling it beyond its original length. Based on the quality of steel used in the fastener, the diameter of the fastener and how far you stretch it, the load or force applied to the joint (the two pieces being fastened together) changes.
Hyundai Tech Tip: Rear Brake Squeak On Application
If a vehicle exhibits a squeaking noise originating from the rear disc brakes when applying the brakes, follow the repair procedure outlined in this Tech Tip to correct this condition.
2010-2013 Ford Transit Connect Alignment Specs
The Ford Transit Connect is, perhaps surprisingly, based on the Ford Focus. The front suspension is the same, but the rear uses an axle tube mounted on two leaf springs. The van has a cult following with taxi cab fleets, contractors and private owners.
Ride Height And Spring Diagnostics: Why Do Springs Droop?
No road is entirely flat. Even a small tar strip or dip causes movement in the suspension. This movement is controlled by the spring and dampener. No matter the type of movement, the spring is compressed and then releases the energy into the body, dampener or road.
