What Are the Advantages of Twin-Tube Shocks?
Twin tube shocks and struts have been used as original equipment on most vehicles for many years. But in recent years, we’ve also seen more monotube shocks and struts being used as original equipment dampers on sports and performance vehicles. So what’s the difference and what are the advantages and disadvantages of each design? This
Directions: What Dreams May Come
The new year gives the auto industry a new opportunity to deliver an exciting crop of vehicles. Many in the industry are hoping that next 12 months are better than 2007. This is especially the case for the Michigan-based automotive manufacturers, as the year 2007 seemed to be one endless stream of setbacks, bad news
Tech Tip: Tire Rack Offers Answers to ‘Top Five’ TPMS Questions
Over the last year or so, Tire Rack has been conducting an informal and unscientific survey of its customers regarding the reoccurrence of issues dealing with tire pressure monitoring systems. Thanks to its wholesalers, service technicians and counter sales people in the field, just to name a few, Tire Rack developed a list of the Top Five most common TPMS questions.
Tech Tip: Special Timing Chain and Belt Tools
Before you replace a timing belt, chain or gear set on some engines, you will have to look up the timing reference marks. Some engines have multiple timing marks that can cause confusion if you don’t know which ones to use or how to line them up. Many engines also require special tools when changing a timing belt or chain. At the very least, you should have a belt tension gauge to make sure the tension on a timing belt is correct.
Garage Equipment Supply to Sponsor Austin Dillon with Andy Santerre Motorsports in 2008 Busch East Series
Garage Equipment Supply (GES), a global full service tool and equipment distributor, will be the primary sponsor of Andy Santerre Motorsports’ (ASM) No. 3 Chevrolets driven by Austin Dillon as the third-generation driver competes for rookie of the year honors in the 2008 NASCAR Grand National Division, Busch East Series.
Tech Tip: Paul’s Crunchy Aveo Announces His Arrival
As a sales manager, Paul relies on his car to get him to important sales meetings across the state. His 2005 Chevrolet Aveo has been his trusty ride for a couple of years now. Recently, he noticed a "crunch" noise from the front of the car while negotiating speed bumps. Paul was embarrassed that a client also commented on his noisy car. Finally, he called me for an appointment.
Tech Tip: Replacing Wheel Bearing Hubs Equipped with Wheel Speed Sensors
When engineers came up with the idea of putting the wheel speed sensor (WSS) and tone ring inside a sealed wheel bearing hub assembly, it seemed like a great idea. The sealed environment would help protect the sensor and make it less vulnerable to damage or contamination from the outside world.
Tech Tip: Grand Am Rattles League Bowler
Mark, an accomplished bowler, is known for "rattling" the pins with his monster strike ball. But lately, his 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has been rattling his nerves. Mark said the rattle comes from the transmission while parking at the bowling alley before his league begins. When he leaves, the noise is gone. I had seen this problem before on another customer’s Sunfire, and I advised Mark that all he needed was a little oil.
Tech Tip: Shifty Camaro Strands Salesman
As a traveling salesman, Gerry spends a lot of time on the road in his 2002 Chevrolet Camaro. Just last week he was in Southern California when he started having transmission problems. Gerry called and said that the MIL lamp came on and the car wasn’t shifting correctly. I suggested he take the car to a local transmission shop owned by a friend of mine. I also prepared Gerry for what may be an expensive repair.
Tech Tip: Curing Engine Rattle on Chevy Astro Vans
Some customers with the vehicles mentioned in this Tech Tip may comment on a rattle-type noise coming from the engine at approximately 1,800 to 2,200 rpm. The spark, rattle-type noise may be caused by torsional vibration of the balance shaft. If detonation noise is present, perform detonation/spark knock diagnostics first.