Diagnostic Solutions: Spring Training – Creating Optimal Suspension and Steering Performance
A good understanding of how springs are rated and how they operate is indispensable for achieving the anticipated outcomes in spring modifications, says Gary Goms, import specialist contributor. With these issues in mind, he covers the basics of how springs operate and how to choose a spring that will enhance vehicle performance.
Toyota/Lexus Timing Belt Service On 3.3L V6 Engines
With extended service intervals and poor maintenance habits, oil sludging problems can cause the camshafts to seize and break belts. And, as engines get more complicated and expensive to repair, educating your
Making Sense of BMW Suspension Noises
Import Specialist Larry Bailly contends that most noise diagnosis challenges come from misunderstanding the customer’s complaint. And, as suspension systems have gotten more complex, with many more points of potential failure, making thorough repairs oftentimes takes using your senses during the diagnostic process.
JASPER Uses Automated Data Acquisition in Gas Engine Live-Run Testing
Jasper Engines & Transmissions has incorporated automated data acquisition into its gas engine live-run testing program. The test stands at the Jasper, IN, facility are being fitted with computers running a JASPER-written automated test program (using software from National Instruments).
Diagnostic Solutions: Lube Bay Strategies
Because import auto manufacturers have been steadily reducing scheduled maintenance requirements, many import shops have experienced a
Symptoms of a Worn Wheel Hub Bearing – Timken Offers Warning Signs
Signs of a worn wheel hub bearing vary in severity. Some may be difficult to detect, leading to damage before corrective action can be taken. The timeframe in which damage occurs is linked to driving conditions and/or the mechanical practices that were followed at installation. Noise is a classic sign of a bad wheel bearing
Tech Spec: Tackling Old Timers – Salvaging Pre-War Era Engines
It’s often surprising to some people that parts for these cars are still available. For other engine specialists, it’s sometimes more surprising when they aren’t.
Diagnostic Solutions: Diagnosing Chassis Noises
Customer interviews are critical to the noise location process. Keep in mind that the grinding noise that you hear might not be the squeaking noise that the customer hears. In most cases, a test drive with the customer might help to identify the noise with which he or she is most concerned.
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.
Prioritize Your Service Recommendations
Most service advisors go over their technicians’ recommendations and categorize the repairs. They’ll put all the brake-related recommendations into one group, all the drivetrain recommendations into another group, etc. Sound familiar? There’s nothing wrong with this approach, but where they’re missing the mark, especially during these tough economic times, is by not understanding how to properly prioritize their service recommendations.