Tech Feature: Laser Ignition Technology
Since the earliest days of the internal combustion engine, spark plugs have provided the ignition source for the air/fuel mixture. Over the years, spark plugs have gotten smaller, and the use of exotic metals in their electrodes has extended plug life to 100,000 miles or more. But spark plugs still have a conductive center electrode
Directions: The Evolving Story of Electric Vehicles
The latest chapter in the evolving story of electric vehicles (EV) begins with a tale of two very different models. One is downright sexy, with alluring aerodynamic lines and head-turning, sporty styling. The other is, well, downright cute — a spunky little thing that looks a bit like a colorful helmet on wheels. At first
Service Guide: F-Series New Model 2004
A bold new look and some subtle changes probably best describe the 2004-and-up Ford F150. To the technician, it is the subtle changes that he or she needs to be aware of. Starting with the 2004 model year, Ford launched a new body style for the F150. The new body style truck is a new
Selling Services: Understanding the Importance of Bearing Grease
n overheating and excess grease purging* (leaking). Overheating occurs because the heat generated cannot dissipate correctly, continually building until damage occurs. When a bearing overheats and pushes out the grease, the sealing lip can be damaged and “blown out” in the reverse direction. When the grease amount is low, a grease starvation condition may be
Diagnostic Solutions: Catalytic Converters
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,
Use Innovative Products of America’s Disc Brake System Analyzer to Diagnose a Proportioning Valve Imbalance
The Disc Brake System Analyzer is the only tool that can identify an imploded brake hose and quickly diagnose a proportioning valve imbalance. If a customer complains of uneven brake wear and you assume it’s a bad caliper and replace it, you may be guessing.
Tech Feature: Performance Modifications…Getting a ‘Handle’ on Your Customers’ Tuning Needs
The sport compact car market is hotter than ever. The market has moved beyond the simple bolt-ons such as wheels, tires, brake rotors and spoilers. It’s not unusual today to see sport compact engines producing upward of 400 horsepower on the street. With so much power under the hood, the challenge is getting the horsepower
Down the Road: Advances in Engine Technology
Two engine technologies that have been around for years are generating plenty of interest these days as the automakers look to create better fuel efficiency, without sacrificing power — direct injection for gasoline engines and turbocharging. Direct injection for gasoline engines is where fuel is injected right into the combustion chamber of each cylinder, as
Viewpoint, Someone is Mining Your Data
Your repair orders are being used to create a new tool What if you had a tool that could predict within 1,000 miles the failure of an oxygen sensor, EGR valve or bearing? What if I told you that some shops are helping to build this tool and they do not even know it? I
Rotating Electric Update
Question: There is a lot of talk in the industry regarding returns on non-defective parts. So, how can repair shops and technicians reduce the number of warranty returns on rotating electrical parts? Answer: Misdiagnosis of starting and charging problems is the main reason many starters and alternators are returned. The issue isn’t the quality of
Buy or Bend?
What is your strategy for exhaust service?
Mercedes-Benz: Transmission Service and Other Maintenance Essentials
Consistently rated as well engineered and well built, the Mercedes line fills almost every class of vehicle today, from small fuel-efficient people-movers like the Smart Car, to large over-the-road trucks and every niche in between. Our shop performs routine maintenance and more involved repairs on hundreds of Mercedes vehicles every year. Most of the models