March 2019 Archives - Brake & Front End
Brake Rotors Don’t Warp & The Earth Is Not Flat

By declaring a customer’s brake pedal pulsation complaint is caused by warped rotors is like saying the earth is flat. Both are cases where the observation of the person is based on a tiny piece of evidence that is false in nature and application.

Technology Corner: Artificial Intelligence

What is Artificial Intelligence? Simply put, it is the development of computer systems able to perform tasks that normally require human intelligence, such as visual perception, speech recognition and decision-making.

Brake Job Specifications: 2009-2017 Dodge Ram

The fourth generation Dodge Ram is probably one of the most trouble-free brake systems you’ll see. There are light- and heavy-duty brake packages. The light-duty package for the 1500 uses floating dual-piston calipers in the front and single-piston floating calipers in the rear. The heavy-duty package for the 2500 and 3500 uses floating dual-piston calipers in the front and dual-piston floating calipers in the rear.

SUV And Pickup Ride Control Restoration

When it comes to shocks and struts, many of the most neglected vehicles are SUVs and pickups. By the time the shocks or struts are worn out, the driver has gotten accustomed to the poor ride and lack of control. In some cases, the problem is not addressed until a spring has broken or a shaft has snapped.

Weight-Saving Suspension Service: Dealing With Aluminum & Advanced Fasteners

In addition to weight, one benefit of aluminum suspension components is their noise and vibration-dampening properties. Engineers have found that aluminum transmits less road and tire noise to the passenger compartment due to the density of the material.

Brake Corrosion Science: Why Rust On Brake Lines And Pads Is Not Normal

You know what rust and corrosion look like, but what is it? Why does it cause holes in some metal parts while causing others to seize? It is not a simple answer. Understanding the mechanics of rust and corrosion is critical in repairing the vehicles and preventing corrosion from happening.

Specialty Wheel Alignments And Parts

Many OEMs are building cars with little to no alignment adjustment capabilities because of the tightened tolerances they have already. While the alignment is perfect when it rolls out of the factory, what happens when it starts to age and the body and cradle start to settle? With the limited adjustments available, there’s almost no range left. And, it doesn’t take long before tires wear and the vehicle begins to display other unwanted handling characteristics.

Selling TPMS Diagnostics And Service

Properly diagnosing issues with a vehicle can take time. As the old adage goes, “time is money.” If shops aren’t charging for diagnostics, they are missing out on both time and money. Many shops want to give diagnostics away for free to sell a job, but diagnostics is something shops shouldn’t be afraid to charge a customer for performing.

Catalytic Converter Replacement Rules And Regulations

If you are replacing a catalytic converter for a customer, it is not the same as replacing a muffler or pipe. Since the catalytic converter is an emissions device that is federally and locally mandated, documentation is just as key as proper installation.