Tech Tip: Identifying Distributors on Ford 351 Engines
One problem technicians may encounter when servicing Ford vehicles with Windsor/Cleveland 351 (5.8L) cubic inch engines is Interchanging or installing parts for the wrong engine. This is often caused by the lack of information on Ford 351 engine differences. The most obvious external difference is the engine valve covers ….
Tech Tip: Failed Booster Seal Causes Master Cylinder Leaks
Chronic master cylinder failure due to fluid leaking past secondary seal in the master cylinder bore could be caused by a defective master cylinder pushrod seal in the power brake booster allowing vacuum to draw fluid past secondary seal of the master cylinder. Replace both master cylinder and power brake unit ….
Tech Tip: Uncovering Cause of Crunching Noise During Low-Speed Turning
Some owners of GM vehicles may complain of a crunch and/or popping sound during low-speed turning. The lower control arm may be striking the steering knuckle during full-turn type maneuvers, causing the crunch sound. Slight movement between the steering gear attaching bolt threads and the frame rail inboard steering gear attaching holes may cause the popping sound ….
Point of View: New Technologies Drive New Tool Needs
I recently returned from Carefree, AZ, where the Equipment & Tool Institute held its ToolTech 2008, a conference that brings together many premier U.S. tool manufacturers with car companies and other interested parties to discuss current and future tool needs for the automotive world. Representatives from Ford, General Motors, Toyota, Mazda, Honda, ISN, Medco, SPX,
Tech Tip: Not All Power Steering Fluids Are Created Equal
Having trouble with power steering pumps failing prematurely? Not sure why? We might have a simple answer for you – power steering fluid. Read on, you might be surprised. Recently, a service dealer called CARDONE’s Technical Hotline regarding a premature failure issue with power steering pumps ….
Tech Tip: Uncovering the Cause of a Sinking, Low or Spongy Brake Pedal
To diagnose a sinking, low or spongy brake pedal, begin by isolating the master cylinder. Remove the lines from the master cylinder and insert blocking plugs into the ports. Press on the brake pedal. If the pedal is firm and hard, the master cylinder is good. If the pedal still drops, either air is in the unit or it is bypassing internally. Bleed the unit or ….
Tech Tip: Uncovering Cause of Poor Driveability After Electronic Control Computer has been Replaced
Many computer-controlled vehicles memorize and store operation patterns that are lost when battery power is disconnected. The computer will use default data until a number of drive cycles have been memorized. To correct this problem the computer must go through a relearn procedure ….
Tech Tip: In-Tank Electric Fuel Pump May Cause Buzzing Noise in Radio Speakers
After replacing the alternator, customers may complain about a hum, whine or buzzing noise that is heard through the speakers of the vehicle radio or two-way radio when the fuel pump runs. The in-tank electric fuel pump may be the cause of the electrical noise.
News Update: Automotive Distribution Network Announces ‘Repair America’ Sweepstakes Winners
Parts Plus has announced the major prize winners of the “Repair America” sweepstakes promotion for professional service dealers. Throughout June and July, when service dealers were given the opportunity to win prizes in this special promotion, more than 62,000 entries were returned to headquarters, with an additional 7,500 entered online through www.partsplus.com. The winner of
GM Tech Tip: Solving Crunching Noise During Low-Speed Turning
Vehicle owners may complain of a crunch and/or popping sound during low-speed turning. The lower control arm may be striking the steering knuckle during full-turn type maneuvers, causing the crunch sound. Slight movement between the steering gear attaching bolt threads and the frame rail inboard steering gear attaching holes may cause the popping sound.