The late-model Nissans have proven to be quite reliable when it comes to serial-type problems that would get them to your bay with check engine lamp issues. Nissan has done a good job of addressing some of the problems we've looked at in the past. But that doesn't mean you...
Choosing the "right" camshaft is not only the cornerstone of building a performance engine, but also its centerpiece. Choosing a cam can give anyone a headache - especially if they choose the wrong cam for a given application. There's a lot of science involved in cam selection, so keep reading...
As I removed the timing belt and balance shaft belt, I noticed this soda can tab holding one of the crank sensors in place. Apparently, the customer knew of this from a year ago when the balance shaft belt broke but couldn’t afford the sensor or a new water pump.
When the topic of variable valve timing (VVT) comes up in import repair shops, few realize that the concept of increasing low- and high-speed engine torque by automatically advancing and retarding valve timing isn't a recent development. For example, I recently discovered an old variable camshaft timing gear that I...
Due to the ability of Nissan's variable valve timing system to provide increased engine performance, Bob Dowie offers his diagnostic, electronic and mechanical expertise for how import vehicle specialists can most effectively perform engine service.
Hall effect crankshaft position (CKP) and camshaft position (CMP) sensors are critical components of an engine management system. The inputs they provide enable the powertrain control module (PCM) to determine engine speed and position including where a given cylinder is within the four-stroke cycle.
Rated at a rather anemic 210 horsepower, the 4.0L SOHC V6 is not exactly a high output engine. It also has an unusual overhead cam drive setup. Unlike most other OHC V6 and V8 engines that drive both overhead cams directly from the crankshaft with a belt or chain, this...
Carlton Banks investigates a no-code analysis for a variable cam timing (VCT) system issue involving multiple misfires. The subject vehicle is a 2005 Ford F-150 Super Duty and has a 5.4L engine with three valves per cylinder. The engine starts and runs; the idle quality is very poor; and cylinders...
Top EPA Codes: Carlton Banks investigates a P1345 code - CMP Sensor Circuit Malfunction - in a 2000 Mazda Protege. This is a code that involves the cam sensor input to the PCM. In many situations, one may be tempted to replace the cam sensor right away. This article will...
