Tech Tip: Honda Ticking Noise from the Engine
A ticking noise may come from the V6 engine of 1994-’97 Passports during normal operation. According to Honda, the probable cause is one or more hydraulic lash adjusters (HLAs) does not fully extend due to varnish buildup inside. This condition results from exceeding the required oil and filter change schedule.
Toyota Racing Development Puts Inefficient Storage in Rear View Thanks to Lista International
A finely tuned engine is what the people at Toyota Racing Development (TRD) strive for. It’s also how they’d like their entire operation to run – smoothly and efficiently with maximum performance and no wasted energy or time. Today, TRD is operating on all cylinders, but this was not always the case – particularly in regards to their workspace and storage equipment.
Tech Tip: Convertible Mustang Vibration – Got MIG?
Customers may come to you after many frustrating attempts by other shops to get an irritating vibration out of their 1996-98 Ford Mustang convertibles equipped with a 3.8-Liter engine. The vibration or shake seems to occur while driving at a steady speed of approximately 62 mph (100 km/h) on smooth roads. This problem may be due to the interaction between the body and the suspension.
Tech Tip: Expedition/Navigator Unintended Brake Assist
Some 2003-2006 Ford Expedition or Lincoln Navigator vehicles may exhibit excessive pedal travel and/or low brake pedal effort due to the mechanical or electronic brake assist being activated. Review the brake assist characteristics and follow the service procedure if required.
Tech Tip: Pennzoil Offers Advice on Oil Change Intervals
One of the great debates in automotive service is oil drain intervals. The correct oil change interval is the one prescribed by the engine manufacturer that can be found in a vehicle owner’s manual. Oil drain interval is determined by the engine type, drivetrain, vehicle type and expected use. Each OEM tests its own vehicles to determine the proper drain interval.
Permatex Launches New Training Videos for Automotive Technicians
Permatex, Inc. has expanded its training efforts with the development and release of new training videos designed for professional automotive technicians. Called the Professional Training Series, the videos cover Permatex’s two core product lines, form-in-place gasketing and chemical threadlockers.
JohnDow Industries Introduces New Catalog
JohnDow Industries is excited to present a new Fluid Handling and General Shop Equipment catalog. The new catalog includes detailed application and specification information for each product, including weights for shipping estimations. Features and benefits of many key products are highlighted with photo "call outs."
Tech Tip: Volvo Alternator Charging Problems
A 1999-2002 S60, S80, V70 or XC70 model may exhibit alternator charging problems. Analysis of damaged alternators shows that the regulator may get damaged due to extreme weather conditions with high temperature and high humidity. The regulator may fail in two phases.
Tech Tip: Hyundai ABS/TCS Activation
During some driving conditions, an underinflated T125/70D15 compact spare tire, installed on one of the front wheel positions, may result in the following symptoms on a 1999-2004 Sonata: ABS/TCS and brake warning lights may set on the dashboard; and the vehicle may not accelerate over certain driving speeds.
Tech Tip: Mercedes-Benz Low Range Light Flashes, Code P1831
If you receive customer reports in the affected model vehicles of the low-range light flashing rapidly (18 times) after vehicle start with fault code P1831 (positioner motor, position sensor or power supply is faulty) in the transfer case ECU, do not replace the transfer case motor. This is caused by a temporary loss of communication between the transfer case control module and the shift motor position sensor.