Servicing Solutions: GM’s Durable Duramax Diesel
General Motors launched the Duramax Diesel 6.6L V8 engine in the Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra 2500HD and 3500 Series trucks with Allison automatic transmissions in 2001. The application expanded to the Chevrolet Kodiak and GMC Topkick medium-duty trucks for 2003, with 16,000-, 18,000- and 19,500-lb. gross vehicle weight ratings (GVWR). According to its engineers,
ContiTech Recommends Regular Timing Belt Checks
When the weather changes – regardless of the season – it’s time to check the timing belts under your hood, says ContiTech’s Power Transmission Group. With that in mind, ContiTech suggests routinely checking timing belts will minimize breakdowns and save money.
Mitch Schneider: ‘But, Daddy … I Swear I Wasn’t Speeding’
It must have been quite a sight – me sitting behind the counter staring at the computer screen, looking at the digital images, shaking my head in disbelief. After all, it isn’t every day you see a fairly late-model vehicle with the entire bottom of the undercarriage torn away. But, then again, I knew it was going to be ugly when one of my techs stuck his head in the office door and quietly said, "Hey, boss! You’d better come out here and take a look at this … Oh, yeah, and bring the digital!"
Tech Tip: Delayed Transaxle Engagement at Start-Up on Chrysler Vehicles
If you encounter a vehicle with intermittent delayed transmission engagement at vehicle start-up in excess of three seconds (transaxle may be cold or hot), check the transaxle fluid level while the vehicle is on a level surface and the transaxle is at normal operating temperature using the following procedure detailed in this Tech Tip.
Gunning for Your Customers: OE Dealerships are Putting More Emphasis on Service Over Sales
It’s no secret that new car sales have slowed in recent months. In fact, new car and light truck predictions for 2007 estimate a flat market over the next year. So be prepared. Dealerships will be using their parts and service departments as a means to generate revenue and profits. And to do that, they will need to compete for your customers.
Volkswagen Tech Tip: Clutch Pedal Does Not Fully Return/Cruise Control Inoperative
On some VWs, the clutch pedal does not fully return to a stop and the cruise control (if equipped) will not function. The problem may be caused by the clutch pedal over the center spring dropping out of position.
Ford Powertrain Team Announces Expanded Call Center Service to Include Placing Orders
Ford Customer Service Division (FCSD) has launched an expanded Ford Powertrain Sales Call Center located in Dearborn, MI. Now, independent installers will be able to order Ford and Motorcraft new and remanufactured engines and transmissions through the Call Center.
Tech Tip: Chrysler Engine Mount Noise
I know the majority of you auto techs are extremely proficient at finding and repairing sources of strange and unusual noises. Although chasing these audible emissions can be time consuming and without a doubt aggravating, the customer’s concerns are usually valid and can often be of monumental importance to them.
Choosing the Right Tools for Diesel Engine Service
Diesel engines are a popular alternative to gasoline engines because of their good fuel economy and torque. The main difference with working on diesels versus gasoline engines is that diesels have no ignition system. There are no spark plugs or ignition coils, but they do have glow plug start-up systems to help the fuel ignite when a cold engine is first cranked.
Mitch’s World: But, Daddy… I Swear I Wasn’t Speeding’
It must have been quite a sight — me sitting behind the counter staring at the computer screen, looking at the digital images, shaking my head in disbelief. After all, it isn’t every day you see a fairly late-model vehicle with the entire bottom of the undercarriage torn away. But, then again, I knew it