Analyzing the Cylinder Pressure Waveform from a Running Engine, Part 3
This is our final installment of the Analyzing the Cylinder Pressure Waveform from a Running Engine series of our Maximizing Tools column. In this article, we discuss the Inlet (or Intake) and Exhaust tabs.
Pulling Codes: Good Guys Vs. Bad Guys
In the world of automotive module-to-module communication, Code U0100 can mimic a good guy/bad guy situation — the good guy has made an attempt to communicate with the bad guy and the bad guy does not respond.
Analyzing Cylinder Pressure Waveforms, Part 2
In Part 2 of this Maximizing Tools series, we continue our discussion of alternative approaches to diagnosing an engine using the pressure waveforms from an in-cylinder pressure transducer. In this article we analyze the Valve Timing and Ignition Timing tabs on the waveforms.
Emissions System Diagnosis Starts with a Vacuum Test
Grab your vacuum gauge and your fuel pressure gauge — we’re going to delve into the tools and equipment involved and the information you need to know to pass the X1 ASE Certification Test section that focuses on emissions system diagnosis.
ASE X1: Diagnostic Tests For Catalytic Converters
The X1 ASE Certification Test has a section (8 questions) focused on emissions system diagnosis. For that section, among other things, you will need to: • Identify failed catalytic converter(s); determine cause of failure; determine needed repair. • Identify failed oxygen sensor(s) (O2S/HO2S) component(s) and circuitry; determine cause of failure; determine needed repair. • Inspect
Pulling Codes: An Advanced Misfire Story – The Story of P0301
This article will document code P0301 — Misfire Activity on Cylinder No. 1 — a code many of you have run into, but sometimes we have case studies that are worthy of mention. Our subject vehicle is a 2007 Mercury Mountaineer. The vehicle has a P0301 stored in its memory. The lead tech working on this
Analyzing the Cylinder Pressure Waveform from a Running Engine, Part 1
By Vasyl Postolovskyi and Olle Gladso, Contributing Writers and Instructors at Riverland Technical and Community College in Albert Lea, MN In a previous article, we examined the use of unconventional but simple methods for detecting electrical faults in vehicles. We discussed digital multimeters, current clamp meters and a digital oscilloscope. In this article, we will
Pulling Codes: Signal No Longer Detected, The Story of Code P0340
This article will document the infamous P0340 code — Camshaft Position Sensor Circuit Malfunction. This is a code that involves the CMP signal, and, in many situations, one may be tempted to replace the sensor right away. This article will attempt to provide a game plan of attack. It’s always wise to start with a
