Tech Tip: Understanding Vehicle Electrical Systems Begins and Ends with the Alternator
The alternator’s job has definitely become more complex during the past decade. Years ago, the typical import vehicle could live very happily with 40 amps of electrical current, which was enough to power the ignition, fuel and lighting systems. Today, that threshold is rapidly advancing toward 100 amps of current.
Directions: The Evolving Story of Electric Vehicles
The latest chapter in the evolving story of electric vehicles (EV) begins with a tale of two very different models. One is downright sexy, with alluring aerodynamic lines and head-turning, sporty styling. The other is, well, downright cute — a spunky little thing that looks a bit like a colorful helmet on wheels. At first
Power Steering Repair
A long time ago in a garage far away a young technician was seeking a repair of a steering system. He found there are a lot of things that can go wrong with a rack and pinion steering gear. The steering wheel vibrates at speeds above 45 miles per hour; the steering wheel doesn’t return
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
Alternators Are the Heart of Import 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 import technicians because many imports 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
2013-2016 Dodge Dart Alignment
If the electric power steering light is on in the instrument cluster, resolve this issue before attempting an alignment.
Check Out The April Issue Of Brake & Front End Magazine
The digital version of the April issue of Brake & Front End magazine is available online. Access the easy-to-view digital version that features articles on Honda Element Brake Job, Electric Power Steering, Ford Taurus Alignment Specs, Brake Noise, Emission Codes, Wheel Bearings, GM TPMS, a host of tech tips, and more!
Check Out The December Issue Of Brake & Front End Magazine
The digital version of the December issue of Brake & Front End magazine is available online. Access the easy-to-view digital version that features articles on Jeep Wrangler Brake Job, Air Ride Leak Detection, Brake Hose Replacement, Volkswagen Passat Alignment Specs, Electric Power Steering, a host of tech tips, and more!
Check Out The October Issue Of Brake & Front End Magazine
The digital version of the October issue of Brake & Front End magazine is available online. Access the easy-to-view digital version that features articles on Ford F-150 Brake Job, SAE J2534, Toyota RAV4 Alignment, Oxygen Sensors, Selling Ride Control With Tires, Brake Pad & Rotor Matching, TPMS, Wheel Bearing Technology, Electric Power Steering, a host of tech tips, and more!
Stacked Alignment: Solving Lead/Pull Conditions
Lead/pull conditions occur at all speeds. In general, the amount of force on the steering wheel or steering angle will increase with speed. If the customer states the lead/pull problem is sporadic, the cause could be the stability control system or electric power steering system.
