VW/Audi Maintenance that Drives Profits
To say that Volkswagen and Audi Group (sometimes mistakenly referred to as VAG) is a large part of the automotive scene worldwide is a gross understatement. From basic transportation to record-setting performance cars, VAG is a recognized leader in innovation and cutting-edge technology. A broad spectrum of models has put a huge number (millions) of VAG models on the road in North America, and these cars will provide many years of potential repair and service opportunities. Getting to know the various models, repair techniques and a few shortcuts will help make repairs more routine and profitable.
Tech Feature: Troubleshooting Internal Errors – Solving Piston and Ring Breakdowns
Rings that do not seal well during all four phases of the four-cycle combustion process can reduce an engine’s power potential by 20, 30, 40 or more horsepower, depending on the engine’s displacement, compression ratio and speed. Rings that leak during the intake stroke will reduce air velocity and volumetric efficiency.
Tech Tip: Ford Camshaft Tick Noise
Some of the affected vehicles built Jan. 17, 2006 and later equipped with the 3.0L 4V Duratec engine with exhaust camshaft-driven water pumps may exhibit a ticking noise from the left bank cylinder head with the engine at normal operating temperature.
Tech Feature: Straight Up Look at the Vortec 3500 Straight-Five Engine
The five-cylinder was seen as a way to achieve better fuel economy and performance than the six, but with more power and torque than the four.
Directions: Performance Powered – Chevrolet Celebrates 100 Years
For its first 40 years, Chevrolet seemed content designing, building and installing four- and six-cylinder engines in its
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.
Tech Spec: Retro Work – Service Tips for the PT Cruiser
Although classified as a truck in the U.S. by the NHTSA for CAFE fuel economy reasons, The PT Cruiser was considered to be more like a car by most other standards.
Tech Tip: Busted Valve Lash Myth
All too often the effect of valve lash on power output is considered very much a secondary factor and a small one at that. This may be so, but the ramps open the valves relatively slowly and during that period the flow, into and out of the cylinder, is little more than a nuisance leak and this almost always manifests itself as a reduction in torque throughout the rpm range.
Gonzo’s Toolbox: How ‘Bout Friday? What Happens When Customers Can’t Afford to Pick Up Their Vehicle
A rather slow week at the shop turned into a very interesting one. With the economy slowing things down to a crawl, it’s understandable that people can’t afford to have their cars in for repair like they should, and regular maintenance is usually not that high on the list of things to be concerned about.
Tech Tip: Whine, Growl or Vibration Type Noise from Buick Engine Compartment
There may be a whine and or growl noise from the engine compartment accompanied by a vibration during various driving conditions. This may include vehicle acceleration/deceleration, steering input and cornering left. It may be mistaken as a transmission noise or power steering pump concern.