Tech Tip: Wrangler Chirping Noise is for the Birds!
The customer may experience a chirp-like sound coming from the accessory drive belt. The sound may become more pronounced at higher engine speeds. Investigation may reveal accelerated accessory drive belt wear even though the belt is properly installed on all pulleys. The accessory drive belt chirp-like sound may be caused by the misalignment of the power steering pump pulley to the shaft of the power steering pump.
Ford Tech Tip: Clunk or Bump When Starting from a Stop
Some 1997-2006 Ford E-Series, 1999-2006 F-Super Duty, 1997-2003 F-150 and 2004 F-150 Heritage 4×2 vehicles may exhibit a driveline clunk or bump that occurs as the vehicle starts to move forward following a stop. This condition may be caused by the slip yoke not sliding smoothly on the output shaft splines.
Diagnostic Solutions: Disc Brake Caliper, Inspection and Installation Procedures
The repair or replacement of disc brake calipers has always been a controversial topic for most import shop owners and brake technicians. Some recommend replacing the brake calipers along with the brake pads, while others won’t replace the calipers unless they’re found to be defective. For many, routine caliper replacement is a cost issue and
Management: 50 Tips to Improve Your Shop in 2008
Andrew Markel, editor of BRAKE & FRONT END magazine, offers 50 pointers that shop managers and technicians can use to improve their service shop in 2008.
Tech Tip: Thumping Along in an Acura MDX
Bill secured his son James, and his dog Skippy, into their 2001 Acura MDX for a weekend fishing trip. As they drew nearer to "Camp Chasing Squirrel" on an old fire road, Bill noticed a "thump" noise from his MDX. After returning with lots of great stories and lots of wet paw prints, he called me about the thumping.
Tech Feature: Larry Carley Offers His 10 Commandments for Selling Shocks and Struts
The first step in selling ride control is the inspection process. A visual inspection of the shocks and struts can tell you a lot about the state of the ride control units. This is a chance to make sure the vehicle is road-worthy before you put your own life at risk. Also, always make sure that there is enough gas in the tank.
Tech Tip: Inspecting the Spring-Loaded Automatic Belt Tensioner
The automatic tensioner has a coil spring inside that applies just the right amount of force against the belt to keep it tight. The tensioner also provides a little "give" so it can absorb and cushion shock loads on the belt that occur when the A/C compressor clutch cycles on and off. What’s more, the tensioner automatically compensates for wear and keeps the belt under constant tension.
Tech Tip: Mercury Grand Marquis Suspension Sits Low in Front
Some 2003 Crown Victoria/Grand Marquis base vehicles with steel wheels or vehicles equipped with the handling package may appear to have a harsh ride in the front end of the vehicle. This may be caused by the front springs. Replace the existing springs with revised springs. The revised springs provide a higher ride height at curb and reduce the possibility of the front being too low. Refer to the following service procedure for details.
Viewpoint: 50 Tips to Improve your Shop in 2008
Increase the labor rate. Chances are your customers will not notice. Send fewer cars to the dealership. Buy better uniforms. Secretly shop the competition. Attend more training. Take down all the old, dirty or out-of-date “push/pull” or “we install” stickers off your front door. Use your shop management system more effectively. Explore all menus and
Suspension & Brake Repairs: Ensure Customer Service and Safe Vehicle Operation
This month, we find ourselves in a familiar environment — under a car or in the wheel well. The good news is you’re under a Mazda car or truck that will present few surprises in terms of service procedures, while providing the additional service opportunities we’ve come to expect from undercar repairs. A vehicle can