Kia Brake & Chassis Repairs
Import Specialist Bob Dowie advises that while the Kia suspension system will provide many problem-free miles, from a safety standpoint, it could be argued that the steering and suspension system on any car is the most critical. That’s why it’s so important that every car that goes on the lift should get a basic safety check.
Diagnostic Solutions: Lube Bay Strategies
Because import auto manufacturers have been steadily reducing scheduled maintenance requirements, many import shops have experienced a
Wheel Bearings
Wheel bearings can be of either ball or tapered roller type. The ball bearings used for front wheel bearing applications are an angular type. An angular-type ball bearing will accept greater thrust loads than a Conrad-type bearing, which will accept a 100 percent load in the radial or thrust position and any combination of a 100 percent load. A tapered roller bearing will accept both a radial and a thrust load. All wheel bearings come in sets.
2011 MOOG Commercial Vehicle Chassis Catalog Highlights New Coverage of Medium- and Heavy-Duty Applications
The 2011 MOOG Commercial Vehicle Master Chassis Catalog, featuring hundreds of new premium-quality replacement components for millions of medium- and heavy-duty vehicles, is now available from Federal-Mogul Corporation.
The DeLorean – Back From the Past Part II
This article explores performance modifications that have been developed for the DeLorean from the time of its release to the present day. Although anything is possible, performance modifications over the past 30 years have focused primarily on the areas of engine modification (or replacement), and suspension modifications. I won’t be getting into time travel modifications – those are beyond the scope of this article.
Tech Feature: Quieting Hyundai Brake and Chassis Noises
It seems I’ve been writing a lot of these brake and undercar articles lately. While they’re similar in content, I hope you find them to be resourceful, and it never hurts to go over the basics. This month, we’ll be concentrating on the Hyundai line of vehicles. Over the years, these cars have seen improvements in performance and reliability. The latest models have certainly touched a chord with the buyers, and with smart styling, affordability and a strong dealer network, there is no reason to think you won’t be seeing these cars in your bays for many years to come.
Tech Feature: Nissan Undercar Noise and Vibration Repairs
When it comes to Nissan undercar work, Import Specialist Bob Dowie discusses the first challenge you face and that is selling the work. While he uses the word “selling,” what you are actually doing is making the customer aware of issues that need to be addressed to maintain the reliability and, more importantly, the safety of their vehicle.
Tech Feature: Family Ties – Servicing Chrysler’s Versatile 3.3L and 3.8L Engines
First introduced as a family back in 1990, these engines have been upgraded and improved to provide good torque for the necessary applications, reasonable fuel economy and a reputation for durability and appropriate performance.
ALIGNMENT & SUSPENSION SPECS: 2002-2010 Jeep Liberty
The Liberty (2002-2007 KJ+2008-2010 KK) was the replacement for the Cherokee (XJ). The major changes from the Cherokee to the Liberty were an independent front suspension and trailing arm rear suspension. Compared to the Cherokee, the Liberty is actually easier to align.
WHEEL BEARING Q&A: What, When & Why
How much load can a wheel bearing carry? On a typical passenger vehicle weighing around 3,400 pounds, each pair of front-wheel bearings, as well as the rear-wheel or axle bearings, support around 850 pounds, depending on the weight balance and driveline configuration. If it’s a 6,000-pound SUV, each bearing might carry about 1,500 pounds. This