Service Guide: F-Series New Model 2004
A bold new look and some subtle changes probably best describe the 2004-and-up Ford F150. To the technician, it is the subtle changes that he or she needs to be aware of. Starting with the 2004 model year, Ford launched a new body style for the F150. The new body style truck is a new
Electric Power Steering
When a technology like hydraulic power steering has been around for so long, it is difficult for technicians and even the training establishment to deal with a new system like electric power steering. These systems abandon fluid logic for electronic logic. It is not a simple exchange of power steering fluid for magnetism. Wrapping one’s
Engineering: What Goes Up, Must Come Down!
Validating that the vehicle brake system is capable of getting the vehicle down a mountain is one of the major tests that occurs during the development and “prove-out” of the vehicle. In most cases, the manufacturer or the brake system supplier will test the vehicle on the road. This is also where a lot of
Doing the ‘Complete’ Brake Job
Brake work continues to be a solid service opportunity for independent repair shops because brakes are items that inevitably wear out. Disc brake pads need to be replaced, and the rotors usually need to be turned or replaced. The front brakes do the most of the braking, so they receive most of the attention when
Shaken, Not Steered
Wouldn’t it be great if various vibrations in the car were something that we could measure, sort through, select one and assign numbers to it that can be used to find its source? Wouldn’t be even better if we could determine by the numbers whether the vibration was a balance issue or excessive runout with
Brake Lathe Accessories Included in New Goodtool Brake Service and Supplies Catalog
Goodtool Brake Service and Supplies has released its new 2007 catalog. It features more than 15 pages of brake service specific tools and supplies.
Kia Unveils Rondo SX Concept at Chicago Auto Show
Kia Motors America (KMA) debuted its all-new crossover vehicle, the 2007 Kia Rondo, at the Los Angeles Auto Show just last November and has wasted no time enhancing its "Exciting and Enabling" brand direction with the Chicago International Auto Show introduction of the Rondo SX Concept.
Subaru Tech Tip: Leaking Front Crankshaft Oil Seals
You may encounter a Subaru 1996-’99 Legacy, or a 1998-’99 Impreza or Legacy with a 2.5 L engine, with a leaking or dislodged front crankshaft oil seal. It may be necessary to remove the oil pump and examine the rear sealing plate of the oil pump.
Braking Horsepower: How Much Does Your Car Have?
We all know brakes get hot, sometimes very hot. If you watch closely on race day, it’s not uncommon to see the rotor on a race car glowing bright orange. Iron is in the range of 1,700º F when orange. At the most basic level, a brake is an energy conversion device. Normally people will
The Rip Off: Do you Love the Aftermarket?
A few weeks ago, I invited an old friend and former co-worker to lunch. I have to admit, my motives were not entirely focused on “catching up,” as he now works for a local company I have been eyeing as a potential customer for quite some time. Of course, I casually worked his company’s fleet