Ride Control Upgrades: Struts, Springs and Sway Bars
Some magazines write about suspension modifications on some of the most mundane vehicles, BRAKE & FRONT END never takes the easy way out. When most people think about lowering springs and other modifications, they think of Asian imports shaking the fillings out of a young driver. You almost never think of a BMW 7 Series.
Tech Feature: Gaining Access to Perimeter Anti-Theft Systems
It could use the same acronym, but is perimeter anti-theft the same as PATS? No, PATS, which stands for passive anti-theft systems, is a system that is designed to identify the key, and was discussed in the July 2007 issue of Underhood Service. Perimeter anti-theft is a system designed to identify unauthorized vehicle entry. There
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Servicing Quadrajet Carburetors
src=”/wp-content/uploads/Articles/05_01_2008/39766Carb4jpg_00000021239.jpg” border=”0″ ” align=”right” alt=”photo 4: float level can easily be measured on the quadrajet.”/>can be measured by inserting a special Kent-Moore float level gauge into the bowl vent located just aft the choke valve. See Photo 4. Measuring the distance from the top of the bowl vent to the float and then subtracting the
Tech Tip: Shocks and Struts are Important Pieces of the Suspension Puzzle
Shock absorbers are an important suspension component because they dampen suspension motions to provide ride control. This provides a smoother ride, better handling and cornering, and improved stability (especially on rough roads). The shocks also extend the life of the tires by preventing unnecessary bouncing as the tires roll along, and they help improve braking and traction by keeping the tires in firm contact with the ….
Tech Tip: Worn or Broken Chassis Parts can Cause a Variety of Problems
Like brake pads, shock absorbers and tires, chassis parts wear out and eventually have to be replaced. But before you sell any chassis replacement parts, somebody has to discover the parts are worn. Worn chassis parts can cause a variety of symptoms, including suspension noise, rapid or uneven tire wear, or a noticeable change in the way a vehicle rides, corners, handles or steers. If a vehicle has any of these symptoms, the steering and suspension should be carefully inspected to determine the cause ….
Management: Need an Alignment Spec?
When I receive a call from a shop looking for alignment angles, it is usually a rare or exotic vehicle. It might be that 0.1 percent vehicle that has rare options like manual steering, off-road package or all-wheel-drive, that is not in most alignment spec databases. I can usually find the specs. Try me ….
Tech Tip: Servicing GM’s 3800 V6 Engines
The Buick 231 cu. in. 3.8L V6 engine has had a production run lasting more than 30 years. Like the small block Chevy V8, this engine has undergone many changes over the years to keep it abreast of changing consumer expectations and emissions regulations. The first Buick 3.8L was offered in the 1975 model year Skyhawk, Apollo, Century and Regal. The engine was based on an earlier 198 cu. in. V6 that Buick introduced back in ….
Viewpoint: Out of Date, Need an Alignment Spec?
When I receive a call from a shop looking for alignment angles, it is usually a rare or exotic vehicle. It might be that 0.1 percent vehicle that has rare options like manual steering, off-road package or all-wheel-drive, that is not in most alignment spec databases. I can usually find the specs. Try me, (330)
Servicing GM’s 3800 V6 Engines
The Buick 231 cu. in. 3.8L V6 engine has had a production run lasting more than 30 years. Like the small block Chevy V8, this engine has undergone many changes over the years to keep it abreast of changing consumer expectations and emissions regulations. The first Buick 3.8L was offered in the 1975 model year
Denny Hamlin Earns First Win of ’08 NASCAR Sprint Cup Season
At Martinsville Speedway this past Sunday, Denny Hamlin earned his first victory of the ’08 season, and his first win in his home state of Virginia. In addition, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Goody’s Cool Orange 500 provided SPICER Chassis with its second victory of the ….