Tech Feature: Curbing Catalytic Converter Thefts
Catalytic converters have been disappearing at an alarming rate. The theft of these emission control devices is being perpetrated by sleazeballs looking for easy money. A thief can hock a pilfered converter for $25 to as much as $100 depending on the value of the precious metals inside it.
Tech Tip: How Can You Tell if a Head Gasket is Leaking or Has Failed?
The first symptoms of a head gasket that is failing are usually a slow loss of coolant with no visible leaks, engine overheating and/or a Check Engine light with cylinder misfire codes.
Tech Tip: Diagnosing a Noisy Wheel Bearing
The classic symptom of a bad wheel bearing is typically a cyclic chirping, squealing or growling noise that changes in proportion to vehicle speed. The sound may disappear at some speeds or only occur at certain speeds. The noise may get worse when turning, or it may disappear momentarily. So it’s difficult to make a diagnosis based on noise alone.
Tech Tip: Diagnosing a Squealing Serpentine Belt
Belt noise is typically a symptom of one of two things: belt glazing and/or slipping. If the belt has more than 50,000 miles on it, chances are it needs to be replaced.
Tech Tip: Checking Fuel Pressure
Fuel pressure can be checked by attaching a gauge to the Schrader valve fitting on the fuel injector rail, or by teeing the gauge into the fuel supply line if the fuel system lacks a test fitting.
Tech Feature: Tips for Servicing Performance Carburetors
Carburetors have been around forever, and are still the dominant fuel mixer for most circle track, drag racing and street performance muscle cars.
Toyota Tech Feature: Diagnosing Today’s Complex Electronics Systems
Find out the latest innovations in scan tool technology, and what your scan tool should be doing for you.
Tech Feature: Valve Seat Selection and Machining
The type of seat material that’s “best” for a particular cylinder head will depend on the application, fuel used, how much power, type of valves, and longevity and durability the engine is expected to deliver.
Carley’s Corner: Modules Are Taking Over
The average new car today has up to 80 or more modules that control more than 1,000 different functions – everything from powertrain management, anti-lock brakes, stability control, electronic suspension and airbag deployment to power windows, power seats, climate control, infotainment and navigation.
Tech Feature: Special Tools for Steering and Suspension Work
Steering and suspension work, like engine repair or electrical diagnosis, often requires special tools for certain jobs.
NVH Strategies for Disc Brakes
Nobody likes noisy brakes. Vehicle manufacturers go to great lengths to minimize brake noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) because potential car buyers won’t tolerate it.
Hybrid Service: Nissan Altima
While the Toyota Prius dominates most of the hybrid discussion, the Nissan Altima Hybrid warrants some attention too.