Master Cylinders: Reliable, Hard-Working Components Still Need Periodic Inspections
If nothing else, modern master cylinders are notable for their long and relatively trouble-free service lives. The modern master cylinder evolved from the single-piston types popularly introduced in the 1930s to the modern dual-piston, dual braking system cylinders in use today. Master cylinders intended for drum brake use contain one or more residual pressure check valves that maintain a slight pressure in the system.
VIEW POINT: Read the Instructions
Can reading the directions save time?
Reprogramming ABS Controllers
Reflashing undercar controllers is possible at your shop!
MRSA: It Was Just a Little Scratch
MRSA. No, it’s not a new automotive acronym, and no it does not mean “mister service advisor.” You need to be aware of MRSA and what it means to everyone, especially people like us whose skin is frequently scratched and punctured on the job. WARNING: This article contains graphic images of wounds.
Vehicle Repairs Cost an Average 34% More at New Car Dealerships than Independent Repair Shops
Vehicle repairs cost an average 34 percent more at new car dealerships than at independent repair shops, resulting in $11.7 billion in excess costs annually to consumers, according to a first-of-its-kind study just released by the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA). The study reveals dramatic differences in the costs of parts and labor between domestic and import vehicle nameplates and from city to city ….
Tech Tip: Mercedes-Benz Low-Range Light Flashes, Code P1831
If you receive customer reports on an applied vehicle of the low-range light flashing rapidly (18 times) after vehicle start with fault code P1831 (Positioner motor, position sensor or power supply is faulty) in the transfer case ECU, do not replace the transfer case motor. This is caused by temporary loss of communication between the transfer case control module and the shift motor position sensor ….
Tech Tip: Opting for Off-Brand or Value-Grade Components Can Be Risky Proposition
In light of the economic situation, it’s a safe bet that consumers will try and save money on car maintenance. This will likely mean greater willingness to opt for off-brand and value-grade components including hub units. Why is this a bad idea?
2009 Tenneco Technology Tour, Monroe Ride and Drive Experience Expected to Train 8,000
The Tenneco Technology Tour (T3) and Monroe Ride and Drive experience, Tenneco Inc.’s signature undercar service training programs for North American automotive technicians and parts professionals, are expected to reach more than 8,000 participants over the course of a 36-city schedule in 2009 ….
Tech Tip: Taking Advantage of an On-Car Lathe
Well-maintained bench and on-car lathes can both do an excellent job of machining rotors. However, according to advice from the new Bendix Answerman, Chuck Kennedy, knowing when and how to use an on-car lathe can help eliminate wasted hours and extra work while also providing more accuracy and a better finish ….
Tech Tip: Toyota Prius Master/Hybrid MIL On/DTC P3125
Under certain driving conditions, some 2001-’02 Prius vehicles may exhibit a Master, Hybrid and MIL Warning Light "on" condition where only DTC P3125, information code 287, has set in the Hybrid Vehicle Control Unit (HV ECU). Use the following procedure to identify whether the HV ECU or inverter/converter assembly should be replaced ….