Getting to the Heart of Electrical Systems
In current SAE J1930 terminology, the “alternator” is now being referred to as a “generator.” Of course, this isn’t news for many technicians because many vehicles have always been equipped with “generators” for several years. By either name, the alternator’s job has definitely become more complex during the past decade. Years ago, the typical vehicle
Yes, It is Rocket Science!
W hen I was a young man, I remember my dad saying something to the effect that working on cars wasn’t exactly rocket science. He was right. In the days of carburetors and contact point ignition systems, a mechanic didn’t need much diagnostic equipment. All you needed was a timing light to check spark timing,
Hydro-Boost Power Assist Systems: Operation Diagnosis and Repair
The hydro-boost uses the hydraulic pressure from the power steering system to provide the driver assist in applying the brakes.
Performing a Pre-Alignment Inspection: Step-by-Step, Brake & Front End
Rack on the floor Secure vehicle on rack. Leave transmission in park or 1st gear on manual transmission cars. Level and lock steering wheel with a holder. Perform a simple bounce test. Check for excessive bounce and noise. Underhood inspection Check engine mounts and struts by rocking the vehicle fore and aft. Inspecting these items
Are You Aware?… April is Designated as National Car Care Month
Did you know that next month is National Car Care Month (NCCM)? Do you have any activities or an event planned to take part in this campaign? If not, it’s not too late ‹ there’s still time to plan something for your shop. You can produce a small event with a vehicle check lane in
Mastering Mercedes Multiplexing
“CAN” is the new buzz word in automobile diagnostics. It stands for Controller Area Network and is a protocol for onboard diagnostics and scan tools. CAN is a high-speed data link that provides more information at a faster rate for better communication between onboard electronics and external diagnostic equipment. Many manufacturers have already started incorporating
Parking Brakes: The Forgotten Fourth Pedal…Or the Seldom-Used Stick
How Much Is Really Enough?
Aftermarket Update
Free PR and Check-Up Forms for National Car Care Month Events Freebies abound for service providers offering in-house vehicle check ups during National Car Care Month in April. First, the official check-up forms are free from the Car Care Council. Simply estimate the number needed and call 1-240-333-1088 or order online at www.carcare.org. Second, there’s
Servicing Saturns: A Different Kind of Car Repair?
On January 7, 1985, Saturn was born. That day, Roger Smith, the president of General Motors, announced the decision to create a whole new car company from the ground up. There were 99 people chosen to create a vision of what GM needed to do in order to prosper in the small car business into
The Forgotten Fourth Pedal…Or…The Seldom-Used Stick
On some vehicles it is the forgotten fourth pedal. The emergency or parking brake is a critical component of the brake systems that should not be ignored. Though most motorists seldom use their parking brakes, it is a required safety device and must work properly when called upon to keep a vehicle stationary. The main