Coming Soon: The New ATEQ VT56 TPMS Tool
Technicians looking for a multi-function TPMS tool that helps them balance the important aspects of their work will soon have a new option. Beginning in the spring of 2014, ATEQ will launch the ATEQ VT56 with an optional wireless printer and docking station.
Suspension Service On 2007-2011 Toyota Camry
Toyota designed the control arm on the Camry to absorb and deform during impacts so the body and suspension cradle will not be damaged. Replacement control arms are readily available for this vehicle. Pay attention to the included angle or SAI. This diagnostic angle can help you determine if the control arm or knuckle has been damaged.
Air Ride Height Sensor Diagnostics
Some ride height sensor modules connect to the Controller Area Network (CAN) bus or other SAE or ISO bus or ride control module. The module can connect directly to the ABS/ESC module on a CAN bus or it can be part of the overall CAN Network in a loop that connects various modules in the vehicle.
ABS/ESC Brake Solenoid Diagnostics
The ABS computer or HCU is a node on a high-speed vehicle bus. This means that the information can be typically accessed through the OBDII DLC. The ABS controller/modulator is the heart of any ABS or ESC system. The modulator gets the brake pressure from the master cylinder. Inside are the valves and solenoids that control the pressures to the wheel. During normal operation, the pressure from the master cylinder goes through the HCU unaltered.
Alignment Specs: 2010-2012 Kia Soul
The Kia Soul is one of the best selling cars of the past three years. While the usual Kia/Hyundai bits are under the Soul’s trendy exterior, it does have four different strut and spring options that can make ordering the right parts a nightmare. This is the typical “net build” vehicle with no adjustments for camber or caster. The factory manual recommends replacing parts if something is out of alignment, but the aftermarket offers several solutions to bring a Soul into spec.
10 Alignment Service Tips
The more thorough the pre-alignment inspection, the better your chances are of not overlooking something that might cause a comeback after the wheels have been aligned. The most neglected inspection item is tire inflation. Even the most precisely aligned toe angle will still pull if the pressures are not even.
Delphi Announces Annual Dream Shop Sweepstakes Giveaway
Due to the popularity of last year’s Dream Shop giveaway, Delphi announced they will again equip one lucky technician with parts, tools, equipment, shop supplies and training as part of the 2012 Delphi Dream Shop Sweepstakes, which launched this month and will continue through September 30.
Alignment & Suspension Specs: 2007-2011 Toyota Camry
In 2007, Toyota introduced a new Camry that was larger. But, under the new sheet metal was the same suspension design that was on the previous model. The suspension on the Camry is nothing special and has no real quirks. The only shocker is that the front caster is non-adjustable and there are no special kits or tools to alter the caster angle.
Eastern Catalytic Launches New ECO Carb and Full Line Catalytic Converter Catalogs and Enhances Online Access
Eastern Catalytic has just released two new product catalogs – a 56-page ECO CARB Converter Catalog and a 362-page Full Line Catalog.
Alignment & Suspension Specs: 2005-2011 Toyota Avalon
Some people call the Toyota Avalon the “Japanese Buick” due to its size and plush ride. The suspension design of the Avalon does not vary that much from Toyota’s smaller vehicle platforms in overall suspension design. If you get on of these vehicles in your shop for an alignment, there are three things you need to do at the time of the alignment.