Servicing Mazda Electrical Systems: Starting and Charging Diagnostics
While it sounds obvious, the battery is often overlooked when dealing with an electrical problem. Actually, the battery should be more of a maintenance item than a repair issue. I have to think by now all successful import specialist shops are relying on maintenance work to keep their bays profitable. Checking and servicing the battery
Timing Belt Replacement on a Sideways Engine
A timing belt failure can be a serious problem, not only because it strands the motorist, but also because of the extensive engine damage it can cause. If the engine is an “interference” application, a timing belt failure may result in bent valves, damaged pistons and a very expensive repair bill for your customer. For
Battery Tech: How to Inspect, Charge and Replace
The first test of a battery is a visual inspection. There are certain things a technician should look for when inspecting a battery. Some things to look for include the quality of the connection from the battery to the cables. Cracks or other leaks can cause acid spills. Missing battery hold down hardware can cause
Understanding How a Battery Operates
In the automobile, the battery serves three main functions. First is the obvious. It supplies electrical power for the ignition system, starter, computer system and every other electrical component while the engine is not running (or any other instance when the alternator is not charging). Second, it serves as a reserve power source, should the
Getting to the Heart of Electrical Systems
In current SAE J1930 terminology, the “alternator” is now being referred to as a “generator.” Of course, this isn’t news for many technicians because many vehicles have always been equipped with “generators” for several years. By either name, the alternator’s job has definitely become more complex during the past decade. Years ago, the typical vehicle
Debunking the Battery
In the automobile, the battery serves three main functions. First is the obvious. It supplies electrical power for the ignition system, starter, computer system, and every other electrical component while the engine is not running (or any other instance when the alternator is not charging). Second, it serves as a reserve power source, should the
Servicing Saturns: A Different Kind of Car Repair?
On January 7, 1985, Saturn was born. That day, Roger Smith, the president of General Motors, announced the decision to create a whole new car company from the ground up. There were 99 people chosen to create a vision of what GM needed to do in order to prosper in the small car business into
Diagnostic Solutions: Drive Belts
Drive belts are an often-overlooked component during routine maintenance service intervals Drive belts last so long on late-model imports that it’s very easy to forget about inspecting them during a scheduled maintenance interval. In the early days of import cars, drive belts didn’t last as long because many were made from a leather belt joined
Why Go Digital? For Precision and Protection
These days, no matter what kind of automotive repair work you specialize in, virtually every system has a certain amount of electronics. Consequently, one diagnostic tool every technician needs is a digital multimeter. To figure out electrical and electronic problems, you have to “see” what’s going on inside the circuits and components. Trouble is, you
The Top 5 Favorite Tools of the Country’s Top Technicians
Dan & Kris Cesena Honda Hospital, Inc. San Mateo and Milpitas, CA Our top five favorite tools (and why) are: The Snap-on MicroVAT Battery/Starter/Alternator Tester. Why? Well it makes it much easier to test batteries, alternators and starters; it has an infrared port, which sends the data to an optional thermal printer; and with these