Still More Tire Price Increases
Another pair of tiremakers announced impending prices increases.
Here They Come: Tiremakers Bring Price Hikes
To no one’s surprise, tiremakers are piling on price increases as we head into the new year.
Make Sure You Have the Necessary Transmission Service Tools and Equipment
The three areas to consider are Electrical testing for things like solenoids, neutral safety switches, etc.; Electronic testing/diagnostics for computer-controlled transmissions; and Pressure testing to check internal hydraulic fluid pressures.
Toyota Tech Feature: Diagnosing Today’s Complex Electronics Systems
Find out the latest innovations in scan tool technology, and what your scan tool should be doing for you.
Brake Job: Chrysler 300 + 300c, Dodge Magnum/Challenger/Charger Brakes
What do you get when you mix the front suspension from an Mercedes S-Class, the rear suspension from a E-Class and the transmission from a C-Class? The 2005-current Chrysler rear-wheel-drive LX-Platform.
The LX platform includes the 300, Magnum and Charger. In 2008, the platform was shortened for use in the LC-platform that was used in the Challenger platform. All have rear disc brakes with the parking/emergency brake mounted in the hat of the rear rotor.
GM Tech Tip: Rear Independent Suspension for AWD Vehicles Out of Alignment
Drivers of some General Motors vehicles with independent rear suspensions and All-Wheel-Drive (AWD) may complain of excessive rear tire wear, clunking noises and possible instability. Technicians may also notice excessive negative camber of more than 3.5 degrees and toe-out conditions that cannot be corrected with normal adjustments.
Rotary Lift Launches Inspect to Protect Lift Inspection Program
A professional lift inspection will identify any issues before they can grow into major problems. This keeps employees safe, maintains bay productivity and reduces lift repair costs. Annual lift inspections conducted by qualified lift inspectors also can prevent OSHA citations and fines.
Tech Tip: Valve Train Adjustment Procedure for Aftermarket Cylinder Heads
When installing your new aftermarket cylinder heads, proper valve train geometry is critical to ensure maximum performance. To obtain proper geometry we need to look at pushrod length and rocker tip to valve stem tip alignment. Before we begin any of the procedures, there are several things that are needed before proceeding with the project.
Modern Brake Lathes Offer Speed, Ease of Use, Plus Added Features
If you haven’t shopped for a new brake lathe lately, you’ll be surprised by the fact that they are probably faster than the model you’re replacing. These new-age machines are also more accurate and can handle a wider array of vehicle applications. You’ll also be pleased to note that they are more durable than ever, and still quite easy to use.
Tech Tip: Installing Reman Engines and Transmissions
With new car sales down, people are keeping their vehicles longer and racking up more miles on their engines. That means there’s a growing opportunity to install a remanufactured engine in a customer’s vehicle if their original engine or transmission has reached the end of the road. Most engines will go quite a few miles with proper maintenance. But if the owner scrimps on regular fluid, oil and filter changes, neglects the coolant, never changes the spark plugs, or ignores little problems, it may lead to premature engine failure.