Tech Feature: Hybrid Service will Increase as Hybrids Move Out of Warranty and into the Independent Service Bays
By now it’s no secret that the price of one gallon of regular-grade gasoline has topped the $4 mark and will undoubtedly be even higher one year from now. In light of rising fuel costs, consumers are once again returning to basic transportation by trading in their old gas-guzzling SUVs for more economical vehicles, especially those powered by hybrid electric vehicle (HEV) technology. On the one hand, the current popularity of hybrid technology seems to offer an ….
Tech Feature: Engine Sealing Technology
Since the days of sealing engines with asbestos, cork, rope and paper are, for the most part, ancient history, new-age materials and designs have elevated the critical role gaskets and seals play in the longevity of an engine. Finding the optimum sealing material and design remain a challenge many gasket manufacturers face as engines are asked to do more ….
Tech Tip: Becoming Attuned to Engine Sounds
Can you pinpoint abnormal noises coming from an engine? More often than not, internal engine malfunctions will reveal themselves first as an unusual noise. This can often happen before the problem affects the driveability of the vehicle. Unless a technician has experience in listening to and interpreting engine noises, it may be hard to distinguish one from another ….
Getting a Fix on Piston Diagnosis and Inspection
Piston failures in late-model engines are relatively uncommon thanks to computerized engine controls that keep a close watch on the air/fuel mixture, and knock sensors that back off spark timing advance if detonation is detected. Pistons are also lasting longer because many engines now come factory-equipped with stronger hypereutectic alloy pistons that can withstand higher
Tech Tip: Filters Play Major Role in Preventive Maintenance
Every mechanical component of today’s cars, trucks and SUVs has one common enemy: dirt. Whether produced internally by the combustion process or brought in from outside, dirt is the number one cause of engine breakdown. Effective filtration plays a key role in preventing unnecessary wear and premature failure. Modern filters are more ….
JohnDow Industries Introduces New Product Catalogs
JohnDow Industries is excited to release three all new brand specific catalogs. Each catalog focuses on unique products engineered to help our customers achieve greater work efficiencies for a variety of service applications. Catalogs include well-organized product features and specs, special feature "call outs" to highlight lead selling ….
Tech Tip: Not All Power Steering Fluids Are Created Equal
Having trouble with power steering pumps failing prematurely? Not sure why? We might have a simple answer for you – power steering fluid. Read on, you might be surprised. Recently, a service dealer called CARDONE’s Technical Hotline regarding a premature failure issue with power steering pumps ….
Tech Tip: Chrysler Vehicles May Display Muffled Rattle Sound Coming from the Suspension
A Chrysler vehicle may exhibit a muffled rattle sound which may be heard during low speed driving on road surfaces with minor fluctuations (such as a parking lot) and may also occur during turning maneuvers. If the vehicle exhibits this symptom/condition, perform the repair procedure detailed in this Tech Tip ….
Ford Tech Tip: Avoid Over-Filling Oil in Ford, Lincoln and Mercury Engines
Incorrect oil levels are being found in many 2002-2003 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles. In most cases, the level is being misinterpreted because the oil level on the dipstick is not touching the top hash mark at the upper limit (or MAX mark), or it is partway down the crosshatch area. Ford is in the process of standardizing the marking across all vehicle lines. The markings shown in ….
Tech Tip: Do’s and Don’ts of A/C Repair
As vehicle owners in many parts of the country begin using their air conditioning systems for the first time this year, some will be surprised to find their A/C system is not functioning properly or isn’t blowing out cold air like the summer past. The following is a recap of common A/C system problems, followed by a repair fix for a poor-performing climate system on a ….