Alignment Specs For 2010 Camaro
The 2010 Camaro was GM’s re-entry into the pony-car wars with Ford and Chrysler. Like the Dodge Challenger, the Camaro borrows its platform from an existing rear-wheel-drive platform. The Camaro is based on the Zeta platform that includes the Chevrolet Police Patrol Vehicle and Pontiac G8. The front suspension uses strut and dual lower control arms. Always check the front lower control arm’s inboard bushing for damage in the form of rubber separating from the metal components. When this bushing goes bad, it will change the SIA and caster.
Servicing Variable-Assist Power Steering Systems
Variable-assist, variable-rate or variable-effort power steering is used on a growing number of vehicles. Variable assist is a way of providing the best of both worlds: finger-tip parking maneuverability at low speed and reduced assist at higher speeds for greater stability and road feel. As a vehicle’s speed increases, less effort and assist are needed to steer the wheels. Variable-rate steering, by comparison, applies more assist at low speed when it is needed most and reduces assist at higher speeds when it is needed least.
Brake Job On 2000-2006 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Van
The 2000-2006 Sprinter cargo van may seem unique for its small displacement diesel engine and large hauling capacity. But, at the wheels, the brakes are very conventional. There are two brake systems on the Sprinter that came with the 2500 and 3500 models.
BRAKE TOOL TECH: Infrared Thermometers
For around $200 you can buy a top-of-the-line infrared thermometer. When diagnosing brake drag problems, this tool can be indispensable.
Air Ride: Compressor Diagnostics
On most modern vehicles, the compressor and air ride control unit are very intelligent components. Most communicate with the Body Control Module (BCM) on a high-speed serial data bus. These systems have malfunction indicator lights on the dash and require the use of a scan tool to diagnose the system.
TECH TIP: Using a Five-Gas Analyzer to Diagnose Catalytic Converters
One of the most effective ways to resolve emissions issues is by sampling the exhaust gases with a five-gas analyzer. Levels of the five gases can indicate the root cause of the problem.
Tech Tip: Hydro-Boost Tips And Hints
Hydro-boost brake systems are self-bleeding if there is no other problem in the system. Use this initial bleeding procedure whenever replacing or servicing any component in a hydro-boost system. Normal driving conditions will remove air that remains trapped within the system when components are properly installed and there are no flow restrictions in the system. Always refer to the vehicle service manual for specific installation and testing procedures on import and domestic vehicles.
Tech Tip: Low Or Spongy Pedal After Routine Brake Service
Some vehicles may exhibit a low or spongy pedal after wheel end brake service that cannot be remedied by bleeding the brakes. This may be due to a prematurely deteriorated seal in the master cylinder. Remove snap ring and rearmost piston from master cylinder to inspect seals. If any deformation or deterioration of seals is present, replace the master cylinder.
Volkswagen Tech Tip: Solving Suspension Creaking Noise
Select Volkswagen vehicles may exhibit a creaking noise originating in the front suspension while entering steep driveways or over large bumps. The source of this noise could be the forward inner control arm bushing. To confirm if this is the issue, raise the vehicle and remove the wheel on the suspected side.
TECH TIP: WHEEL BEARING HUB AXLE NUT TORQUING
Putting the proper torque on the center nut sets the preload for the bearing and keeps the bearing from separating while in operation. The torque specification for this center nut is critical to the performance and longevity of the hub.
Chrysler Tech Tip: ESP Lamp Flashing/ESP Pump Howl
Some drivers may notice a howl or groan sound while driving straight after a low speed spirited turning event. On SRT vehicles only, when the vehicle has been switched to the “Full On” ESP mode, the ESP event lamp continues to flash. This does not affect the functionality of the ESP system in any way. The system can be returned to “normal Full-On” mode by briefly pressing and releasing the ESP Off switch. The system will reset itself each time the ignition is cycled.
TECH TIP: FORD: VIBRATION OR THUMP FROM UNDER THE VEHICLE
Some built on of before January 16, 2012, may have a vibration, thump or clunk noise coming from under the vehicle.