Tech Feature: General Motor’s Ecotec 2.0L Turbo Engine
General Motors introduced its powerful Ecotec 2.0L direct
Groups Form To Delay E15 Fuel
The groups contend that E15 could harm many types of vehicle engines, fuel systems and components, as well as the environment.
Tech Tip: Subaru Fuel Gauge Inconsistency On Forester
The Subaru Techline has received calls about a customer concern that the vehicle’s fuel gauge shows only 3/4-full immediately after filling the vehicle. There are some easy checks that can be performed that will save diagnostic time.
Tech Feature: Fuel for Thought About Diesel Formulations
Since 2007, the anatomy of diesel fuel at the pumps has changed. And with these changes there are legitimate concerns that diesel vehicle owners (and engine builders) need to be aware of.
Tech Feature: Taking it to the Streets
We have all seen in our industry that a “streetable” racing engine or a “raceable” street engine appeals to a broad spectrum of potential engine buyers because of its flexibility. Yet, everyday street driving is not the same thing as serious drag racing.
Tech Tip: Diagnosing and Repairing Honda When MIL Comes On
The MIL comes on with one or more of these evaporative DTCs stored: P0451 (FTP sensor circuit range/performance problem); P0452 (FTP sensor circuit low voltage); P0453 (FTP sensor circuit high voltage); P1454 (FTP sensor circuit range/performance problem).
Tech Feature: Northstar Supernova
Introduced in 1993, GM’s 4.6L 32-valve dual overhead cam all-aluminum V8 engine – housed in the Cadillac Allante, Eldorado and Seville STS – was considered a quantum leap forward for U.S. automakers. Initially rated at 295 horsepower, the Northstar V8 has grown over the years to an incredible 469 hp at 6,400 rpm (STS-V Supercharged Northstar engine).
Mitch Schneider: How to Pass the ‘Reasonable Man’ Test
We’ve been doing a fair amount of restoration work lately. Certainly, more than we’ve done in a very long time: a 1962 red Corvette convertible (Like there is another color…), a number of vintage ’50s and ’60s Cadillac Coupes and Sedan De Villes, a few early ’50s Roadmasters, a couple of classic ’60s Mustangs, a 1931 Oldsmobile (I know…How did that one sneak in there?) and more.
Tech Tip: Diagnosing a VW/Audi MAF Failure
One of the most common failures on 2000 and newer Volkswagen and Audi cars is the mass air flow (MAF) sensor, but properly diagnosing such a failure can be problematic.
Leak Detection Tools & Equipment
Having the right tools to help you find leaks can save time and effort, and reduce the risk of comebacks. This special section features some common types of leaks and what kind of equipment you can use to find them, as well as a Leak Detection Product Showcase.
Tech Tip: GM Mass Air Flow Sensor Failure
Instances of repeated Mass Air Flow (MAF) sensor failure on General Motors applications utilizing the remote-mounted Delco unit can often be traced to an engine back-fire condition. The sudden intake pressure buildup can induce cracking of the heated element resulting in MAF sensor failure.
Tech Feature: Detecting Misfires in OBD II Engines
With OBD II, there’s no missing misfires. Most engine control systems with OBD II monitor the speed of the crankshaft between cylinder firings to detect misfires. The powertrain control module (PCM) notes the relative position of the crankshaft via the crankshaft position sensor (CKP) each time a trigger pulse is sent to the ignition system.