Air Ride Diagnostics: Dodge Ram 1500
The secret to diagnosing problems comes down to knowing what criteria the system uses to regulate the compressor/reservoir and having a scan tool that can interpret the information.
Torque-To-Yield Suspension Components
Despite what you may believe about the properties of metal, bolts are actually elastic. It’s not quite Stretch Armstrong dramatic, but when you tighten a critical bolt to specs, you’re actually pulling it beyond its original length. Based on the quality of steel used in the fastener, the diameter of the fastener and how far you stretch it, the load or force applied to the joint (the two pieces being fastened together) changes.
Hyundai Tech Tip: Rear Brake Squeak On Application
If a vehicle exhibits a squeaking noise originating from the rear disc brakes when applying the brakes, follow the repair procedure outlined in this Tech Tip to correct this condition.
Ride Height And Spring Diagnostics: Why Do Springs Droop?
No road is entirely flat. Even a small tar strip or dip causes movement in the suspension. This movement is controlled by the spring and dampener. No matter the type of movement, the spring is compressed and then releases the energy into the body, dampener or road.
VIDEO: How Do Suspension Components Stay Together?
Andrew Markel covers how suspension component fasteners are secured using mechanical attachment methods like castellated nuts, nyloc nuts and torque-to-yield fasteners. He also discusses chemical solutions like thread locking compounds. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
Ford Expedition Tech Tip: Stiff Ride And Suspension Warning Messages
On 2014-2017 Ford Expedition models with the Vehicle Dynamic Suspension, the system looks at a lot more than just the height of the vehicle to control the pressure in the air springs and the valving of the shocks. The VDM (Vehicle Dynamics Module) is connected to the high-speed CAN to communicate with other modules like the ECM, BCM and ABS module.
SUV And Pickup Ride Control Restoration
When it comes to shocks and struts, many of the most neglected vehicles are SUVs and pickups. By the time the shocks or struts are worn out, the driver has gotten accustomed to the poor ride and lack of control. In some cases, the problem is not addressed until a spring has broken or a shaft has snapped.
Weight-Saving Suspension Service: Dealing With Aluminum & Advanced Fasteners
In addition to weight, one benefit of aluminum suspension components is their noise and vibration-dampening properties. Engineers have found that aluminum transmits less road and tire noise to the passenger compartment due to the density of the material.
VIDEO: Are Brand New Ball Joints Too Stiff?
Andrew Markel discusses out-of-the-box ball joints and how stiffness may appear as an issue when it is really a normal condition. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
Air Ride: Plausibility And Rationalization Codes In Cold Weather
It is a common occurrence on the coldest days or during large fluctuations in the temperature to get a customer call or visit complaining that they have a warning message on their dash telling them the air ride suspension system is malfunctioning or there is a fault.
Alignment Specs: 2011-2017 Buick Regal
If you get a Regal in your alignment bay, you could be dealing with several new technologies at once. Options and packages on the Regal can be difficult to define by the badging on the trunk. Visual confirmation may be needed and you may also need to look up RPO codes. During the production run, there were models with Brembo brakes, all-wheel-drive and even advanced driver assistance safety systems (ADAS).
Ball Joint Inspection And Service
Ball joints have been on most vehicles for more than 70 years. They were replacements for kingpins, but they also became essential for independent suspensions. While the basics of the ball joint have remained the same, the materials have improved along with design refinements that enable the joint to last longer and carry greater loads. In the aftermarket, some manufacturers have focused on improving the OE designs and adding serviceability to the joint.
