Tech Feature: Toyota V8 Timing Belt Service
When I first started researching this article, I called and stopped by several shops that do work on Toyota vehicles. I asked if any of them had any V8 models coming in for timing belts so I could get some pictures of the process. Either a blank stare, or a question like: “What Toyota V8?” was the general response. The idea that there was a Toyota V8 needing a timing belt replacement seems to be generally unknown in the aftermarket.
Tech Tip: VW’s Check Engine Light is On with Fault Code P0411
When diagnosing various VW and Audi vehicles, the Check Engine Light (MIL) is on and fault code P0411 (16795) is stored in the fault memory.
Tech Tip: Toyota Matrix MIL ON/DTC’s P0011, P0012 or P0016 Set
Under certain conditions, customers may experience an MIL On condition with DTC P0011, P0012 or P0016 stored in the Engine Control Module/ECM.
Tech Tip: Measuring Valve Spring Retainer Height
To achieve the proper valve spring height while using the minimum amount of valve spring shims can be challenging when working with applications that use other than stock components.
Tech Tip: Timing Chain Service on Ford 3.0L Duratec Engines
If you have to remove or replace a cylinder head for any reason, or replace the timing chain on a 3.0L Duratec, it can be a bit of a challenge because Ford doesn’t provide a Top Dead Center (TDC) timing reference mark on the crankshaft. You will have to use a dial indicator to find the TDC position of the number one cylinder on Ford’s 3.0L Duratec to make sure the crank and camshafts are all properly aligned.
Undercar Repairs on 1996 to 2005 Volkswagens and Audis
Just as we get used to the types of powertrain, suspension, brake and exhaust systems that are coming into the marketplace, something different comes along. In this article, I’ll take a look at the designs and repair of the suspension, brake and exhaust systems of Volkswagens and Audis from 1996 to 2005. I won’t be able to cover everything in this article, just some of the highlights of the various models.
Mitch Schneider: Sealed, Signed and Delivered
Profit, Productivity and Proficiency are destroyed when parts adversely impact our profit model. It doesn’t matter what the reason – someone is going to suffer and I’ll bet you already know who that someone is going to be.
Tech Feature: Sizing Up the Valve Guide
The valve guide is designed to support the valve during operation as well as transfer heat for cooling. OK, we all know that part, but when the guides become worn they will increase oil consumption and lose their ability to transfer heat and that’s when we need to replace and resize the valve guide.
Do You Know Where Your Small-Block Core Has Been?
The Chevy small-block has been the quintessential American performance engine for more than half a century, but it was replaced by the “LS” engine family in production vehicles more than a decade ago. That means the pool of rebuildable cores is shrinking. In many cases, you just can’t be sure of the history of those remaining cores.
Directions: E15 — Helping or Hurting American Drivers?
At Issue: E15 fuel blends could be available by March or April of 2011, assuming the EPA makes two approvals for use of E15 in 2001 cars and newer models by the end of the year.