Ford Tech Tip: Rear Driveshaft Slip Or Bump
Some 2009-2012 F-150 vehicles equipped with a two-piece driveshaft only and built on or before 7/30/2012 may exhibit a rear driveshaft slip/bump concern on light to moderate acceleration from a stop or when coming to a stop with light braking.
VIDEO: Diagnosing Drivetrain Stabilization
The angles of the universal and cardan joints on a driveshaft have a limited range of motion. If the angle of the pinion, transmission or axle exceed the specifications, it can result in noise and damage to the drivetrain. Andrew Markel shows how a worn motor mount or damaged axle can result in a customer noise compliant. Sponsored by TrakMotive.
VIDEO: Checking Transmission Clutch Health
Andrew Markel discusses several ways to diagnose a clutch’s healthy operation to maximize the life of the transmission. Sponsored by Valeo.
VIDEO: Should You Lubricate Male or Female Axle Splines?
Andrew Markel discusses whether the splines on a CV axle or wheel bearing truly need lubricated. Sponsored by FAG, a Schaeffler brand.
Transmission Fluid: Just Because It’s Red Doesn’t Mean It’s The Same
Despite sharing the same moniker called ATF (automatic transmission fluid), most OEMs use different proprietary blends (additives) for their transmissions these days, and it may be confusing some technicians as to which type of fluid is required for a vehicle.
VIDEO: Replace The Whole CV Axle, Not Just The Boot
Andrew Markel discusses how the condition of the CV boot can tell a lot about the condition of the entire axle, and why replacing the whole axle is better for the vehicle in general. Sponsored by TrakMotive.
Wheel Bearing Technology: Don’t Become Complacent
Welcome to wheel bearing season! Over the next few months, asphalt and concrete will heave and crumble in the falling temperatures. These potholes will drive rollers and balls into the inner and outer races, causing microscopic damage. This damage will increase and cause play and noise.
Tech Tip: Howl At Highway Speeds In The Cold
Some 2007-2011 Ford Fusion, Mercury Milan and Lincoln MKZ vehicles equipped with all-wheel-drive (AWD) systems and built on or before 8/13/2010 may exhibit a driveline vibration or a howl at highway speeds in cold temperatures.
Mercedes-Benz Tech Tip: Clunking Noises Heard During Acceleration And Throttle Lift Off
Mercedes-Benz owners may complain of a single throttle lift-off clunking noise from the side shaft when first taking off (audible at the outboard end). Also, the clunk is heard once when changing from forward to reverse.
Ford Tech Tip: Automatic Transmission Delayed Engagement From Park To Drive Or Reverse
Some models may exhibit a delayed park to forward or reverse transmission engagement only on initial vehicle start up after parking several hours or overnight. The vehicle functions normally after the initial engagement has completed. Follow the Service Procedure steps to correct the condition.
ASE PREP: A2 Automatic Transmission Tips
Chances are you will not be rebuilding a transmission, but rather you will be listening to your customer’s complaint and diagnosing it. Knowing where to start is the most challenging part of the job. The main focus of ASE’s A2 test is the electromechanical part of the transmission. The basic concept to remember is that if the electromechanical part of the transmission not correctly controlling the mechanical components of the transmission, a mechanical failure will happen.
VIDEO: Testing The Transmission With The Stall Test
Andrew Markel introduces two mechanical tests that can be performed on a transmission to gauge its road performance. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
