Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems: The Ins and Outs of Indirect and Direct TPMS
This is the year of the TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitor System). It’s been coming for some time. In response to a rash of highly publicized rollover accidents caused by tire failures on SUVs, Congress passed a law called the TREAD Act in 2000 which required all vehicle manufacturers to have TPMS on all their cars
Keeping on Track with Steering Position Sensors
Cars just keep getting smarter all the time. Sensors are being used to monitor more and more functions, and to share information between vehicle systems that formerly were mute or didn’t communicate with one another. One such sensor is the steering position sensor. The sensor’s basic function is to monitor the driver’s steering inputs. This
Tech Feature: Gaining Access to Perimeter Anti-Theft Systems
It could use the same acronym, but is perimeter anti-theft the same as PATS? No, PATS, which stands for passive anti-theft systems, is a system that is designed to identify the key, and was discussed in the July 2007 issue of Underhood Service. Perimeter anti-theft is a system designed to identify unauthorized vehicle entry. There
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Servicing Quadrajet Carburetors
src=”/wp-content/uploads/Articles/05_01_2008/39766Carb4jpg_00000021239.jpg” border=”0″ ” align=”right” alt=”photo 4: float level can easily be measured on the quadrajet.”/>can be measured by inserting a special Kent-Moore float level gauge into the bowl vent located just aft the choke valve. See Photo 4. Measuring the distance from the top of the bowl vent to the float and then subtracting the
Bar’s Leaks Introduces Professional DiFM HG-3 Head Gasket Repair Kit
For those times when mechanically fixing a blown head gasket or cracked block would cost more than the vehicle is worth, or when your customer just can’t afford the work, Bar’s Leaks introduces its new professional HG-3 Head Gasket Repair Kit ….
KTI Puts Brakes on Messy, Inefficient Line Bleeding
K-Tool International (KTI) introduces an automotive tune-up and brake bleeding kit. Generally a messy, two-person job, KTI’s kit was designed to allow a single technician to quickly and cleanly bleed automotive brake and hydraulic clutch systems, as well as get answers to ….
Makita’s New 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver Kit Provides More Torque with 18V Power and 12V Weight
Makita U.S.A., Inc. announces the release of its new 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Cordless Impact Driver, model BTD141. This powerful impact driver delivers more work (1,330 in. lbs. of max. torque) yet weighs just 3.4 lbs. The BTD141 is another example of Makita’s commitment to innovative technology and ….
Tech Tip: The PCM Relies on Good Information from the Oxygen Sensors
Do you know your oxygen sensors? Oxygen sensors have been used for more than a quarter of a century, dating back to 1980 when the first computerized engine control systems appeared. The oxygen (O2) sensor is part of the fuel management system. It monitors unburned oxygen in the exhaust. The powertrain control module (PCM) uses this information to determine if the fuel mixture is rich (too much fuel) or lean (not enough fuel) ….
Remanufacturing Industry Association Strongly Supports Passage of ‘Right to Repair’ Legislation
The Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA) has declared its support of the Motor Vehicle Owners’ Right to Repair Act (HR 2694) and strongly urges Congress to pass the legislation in order to ensure that car owners and their trusted repair shops have the same access to safety alerts and repair information as the ….
Master Introduces New Heavy-Duty Deluxe Varitemp Heat Gun
Master Appliance Corp. has introduced its new Deluxe Varitemp Heat Gun, Model VTS-750, featuring a unique, versatile metal stand with adjustable circular frame and exclusive, pivoting spring-loaded sliding handle with ergonomic grip. The Deluxe Varitemp is ideal for hands-free or hand-held use in ….