Tech Tip: Put a Damper on Booming Astro Van Harmonic with Rear Axle Parts
Some 1995-2004 Chevrolet Astro Van and GMC Safari owners may complain about a “boom” noise inside the vehicle while driving at speeds between 60-65 mph. This condition is most noticeable from behind the driver’s seat. The noise may result from an engine-firing harmonic, which becomes noticeable at torque converter clutch (TCC) lock-up. A new rear leaf spring damper kit (one per spring) has been developed, to be used in conjunction with a pinion nose damper tuned to 86 Hertz (Hz) to reduce the resultant noise level.
Tech Tip: Valve Train Adjustment Procedure for Aftermarket Cylinder Heads
When installing your new aftermarket cylinder heads, proper valve train geometry is critical to ensure maximum performance. To obtain proper geometry we need to look at pushrod length and rocker tip to valve stem tip alignment. Before we begin any of the procedures, there are several things that are needed before proceeding with the project.
TPMS: Tire Pressure Monitoring Service for All Shops
Recently, an owner of a 2008 Lincoln Navigator brought their vehicle in for a tire rotation. The tires were rotated front to rear. The customer drove away not knowing he was in great peril. A few days later, the right rear picked up a small leak. The TPMS system turned on the dashlight and indicated
BMW Engine, Transmission or Clutch-Related Complaints
Various complaints concerning the engine, transmission, clutch or noise characteristics of the vehicle have been traced to the absence or damage of the alignment dowels between the engine and transmission.
Gearing Up for Timing Belt and Chain Work
Timing belts are a maintenance item on engines that have them, but what about timing chains? On most overhead cam engines that use a timing chain to turn the cams, there’s usually some type of chain tensioner or adjuster to keep the chain tight and to compensate for stretch as the chain ages. But on pushrod V6 and V8 engines, there is no chain tensioner to compensate for chain stretch. Consequently, after tens of thousand of miles, the chain loosens up, starts to make noise as it rattles against the front cover, and causes cam timing to retard. At this point the timing chain needs to be replaced.
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Tech Tip: Front Passenger Seat Accessory Precautions
Post-collision repair requirements differ from manufacturer to manufacturer. Thus, you must be prepared to evaluate, research and document each and every crash-damaged vehicle that’s brought into your repair facility. Seat belts, steering systems, occupant sensors, on-board diagnostics and air bag components and systems, as well as proper alignment of structurally related components, are only a few of the critical considerations confronting you ….
Steck Manufacturing Introduces Panel Shaper Kit
Steck Manufacturing Company has released another winning tool: The Panel Shaper Kit (P/N 20046) which will allow a technician to reshape badly deformed inner panels, body lines and floors to their original shape ….
Tech Tip: BMW Engine, Transmission or Clutch-Related Complaints
Various complaints concerning the engine, transmission, clutch or noise characteristics of the vehicle have been traced to the absence or damage of the alignment dowels between the engine and transmission. In many cases, the dowels required to center the engine/transmission were not fitted, or were damaged during a previous repair in which the engine and transmission were separated ….
Tech Tip: Revised Cylinder Head Gasket and Head Bolts for 1983-92 Ford 2.3L OHC
Oil leaks and broken cylinder head bolts may occur if the head bolts are not properly tightened. The newest level of cylinder head gasket and cylinder head bolts are recommended any time cylinder head service is performed. The new cylinder head gasket and bolts require a different service procedure for all 1992 and earlier 2.3L engines. If cylinder head service is required, refer to the ….