Technicians’ Top 5 Favorite Tools & Equipment
Adnan “Ed” Anwar, president/master technician Checkered Flag Automotive Lacey, WA I own Checkered Flag Automotive with my wife Mary. I’ve been fixing vehicles since 1982. I’m a certified master technician, CM HDT, Auto L1, PSI and CNG. We have owned the business since 1998 and purchased the shop and land in 2005. Checkered Flag has
E Instruments Introduces MicroRay AUTO Non-Contact Infrared Thermometer and Auto Inspection Tool
The MicroRay AUTO is a revolutionary new breed of portable infrared thermometer for all your automotive inspection and temperature needs. Check your engine diagnostics, cooling system, tires, brakes, bearings, defroster, insulation, electrical circuits, climate control diagnostics and much more.
The Bartec TECH300 Plus Activates and Decodes most TPMS Sensors
Bartec USA announces the release of its latest tire pressure monitoring diagnostic tool. The TECH300 Plus features a rugged design, compact size, easy-to-use menu system and a bright display. The TECH300 Plus activates and decodes most of the sensors currently in use today.
Tech Tip: Catalytic Converters Play an Important Role in the Emissions-Compliant Engine
The design and function of catalytic converters has changed dramatically since their introduction in 1975. The first "two-way" catalytic converters were oxidizing-only designs that combined hydrocarbon (HC) and carbon monoxide (CO) with oxygen to form water vapor (H2O) and carbon dioxide (CO2). Oxidizing converters were originally manufactured in pellet bed or monolithic "honeycomb" styles. Currently, the monolithic style has proven to be the most durable.
Equus Products Introduces the INNOVA 3140 Scan Tool CanOBD2&1 Kit
Equus Products, Inc. recently announced the availability of its INNOVA 3140 Scan Tool CanOBD2&1 Kit. This feature-packed tool and software kit is designed to meet the needs of professional technicians who desire quick and easy access to diagnostic data essentials for a wide range of vehicles.
Tech Tip: High Charging System Voltage on Dodge Intrepid
If a customer’s 1996 Dodge Intrepid 3.5L is experiencing high charging system voltage, follow the diagnostic procedure listed in the following tech tip.
Thomson Delmar Announces Version 1.2 ChiltonPRO Release
Thomson Delmar Learning recently announced the version 1.2 release of ChiltonPRO. An alternative for Professional Technicians who want a cost-effective electronic automotive repair information system, ChiltonPRO provides professionals with access to all of Chilton’s automotive repair information either online or in a set of DVDs.
Management: Who Will Fix the Cars in Five Years?
Recently, I was asked to address members of the Chesapeake Automotive Business Association (CABA) on the topic, "Who will fix the cars in five years?" The challenge was to put together a 60-minute presentation that would answer the question and not offend the audience of shop owners and technicians.
Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Signs Agreement with Identifix
Identifix, a provider of online and hotline diagnostic and repair information, has been recognized as a Preferred Provider to Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance. The Alliance will introduce Identifix services to its 2,400 Certified Service Centers throughout North America flying under the flags of Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
Mazda Tech Tip: Hesitation/Surge or MIL on with DTSC P0102/P0103
The malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) may illuminate with diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) P0102 and/or P0103 on any 1998-’99 Mazda B-Series 2.5L. There may be driveability concerns, such as hesitation and/or surge, during acceleration under normal driving conditions. This may be caused by an out-of-specification mass air flow (MAF) sensor.