BRAKE JOB: 2004-2009 Mazda3
The 2004-2009 Mazda3 is based on the Ford global C1 platform, shared with the European Ford Focus and Volvo S40. Nothing is really groundbreaking about the brake system. But, not paying attention to the details can end in a post brake job comeback.
Federal-Mogul Technical Education Center Announces Extensive Schedule of Training Workshops, Webinars
The Federal-Mogul Technical Education Center (TEC) in St. Louis this year is offering more than 40 in-depth, hands-on training workshops and 20 free online webinar sessions covering a variety of undercar, underhood and engine repair topics.
Launching the Ford Evos Concept
Making its global debut at the 2011 Frankfurt Motor Show in September, the Ford Evos Concept represents the ultimate expression of Ford’s new global design language, and explores key future powertrain and vehicle technologies. Created as a bespoke concept vehicle, the fastback introduces Ford’s first truly global design language as the momentum of the company’s One Ford product plan continues to build.
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.
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 Update: Working on Wipers
It’s right after a major snowstorm, and there’s ice and snow on everyone’s windshield. You’re at the shop waiting for the phone to ring. The phone leaps off the receiver and it’s Captain Chaos; he’s managed to find a second use for his wiper blades. Apparently, Captain Chaos was in too much of a hurry to clean the ice off the wiper blades before turning them on. In his frantic attempt to go to work, the wiper blades have become completely useless. He can hear the wiper motor running, but the blades refuse to move.
Alignment & Suspension Specs: 2005-2010 Chevy Cobalt and Pontiac G5
If you were to look at the underside of a 2005-2010 Chevy Cobalt or Pontiac G5, the recipe doesn’t look that much different that a 1995-2004 Chevrolet Cavalier or Pontiac Sunfire. The basic ingredients of a strut front suspension and loaded beam axle rear suspension are still there. But, GM introduced several new ingredients that can change how this vehicle is aligned.
Tech Feature: Don’t Be Restrained from Servicing Airbag Systems
Airbags, along with other components of safety restraint systems, are becoming increasingly sophisticated, and misinformation can spread like wildfire. Here’s what you need to know to restore them to OEM standards.
Alignment and Suspension Specs: 2005-2011 Chevrolet Equinox
The alignment process of the Equinox is mechanically straightforward. The front suspension is a MacPherson strut design with hydraulic bushings in the lower control arms. The rear suspension is a four-link layout.
Tech Feature: Nissan Undercar Noise and Vibration Repairs
When it comes to Nissan undercar work, Import Specialist Bob Dowie discusses the first challenge you face and that is selling the work. While he uses the word “selling,” what you are actually doing is making the customer aware of issues that need to be addressed to maintain the reliability and, more importantly, the safety of their vehicle.