Tech Tip: The Hybrid Compressor – Know The Difference
HVAC systems differ from one hybrid to the next, and some systems have used a scroll compressor, which can be powered via a belt when the engine is running, or electrically when the engine is off. Most of the newer hybrids have changed to an inverter compressor, which is a high-voltage electrical motor.
Servicing The Chrysler 3.5L Engine
If ever there was a service opportunity ripe for the taking, Chrysler’s 3.5L SOHC V6 engine (and its 2.7L, 3.2L and 4.0L cousins) is it. This engine was introduced back in 1993 as an “upgrade” from the earlier 3.3L pushrod V6 engine. Some would question whether the move was a step forward or backward because the 3.5L V6 (and its variants) has a poor reputation for reliability. Lubrication issues, oil sludging, coolant leaks, overheating and low-mileage engine failures have plagued this engine family from the get-go.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Solving Starter And Alternator Problems
The starter “solenoid” is actually a combination of an electric relay and solenoid. The relay portion electrically connects the starter armature to the battery. The solenoid portion mechanically engages the starter’s drive pinion with the engine’s flywheel gear.
De-Coding Diagnostic Scan Tool Codes
I like to take full advantage of the codes the manufacturers offer. One of the ways to do that is to understand what all those letters and numbers represent that are in a diagnostic trouble code. Each of the five digits actually has a purpose and can make the job of diagnosing a vehicle’s problem much easier for import technicians if they understand the breakdown of the code’s letters and numbers.
Fuel Pump Tech Tip: MIL On With DTC P0463 Or Erratic Fuel Gauge Operation
Some 2004-’07 Explorer four door/Mountaineer vehicles may exhibit the malfunction indicator lamp (MIL) on with diagnostic trouble code (DTC) P0463 or an erratic fuel gauge concern. This could be from sulphur contamination in the fuel, causing an open or high resistance on the fuel sender card.
Tech Tip: Kia Constant Variable Valve Timing Oil Control Valve Inspection
This bulletin provides information related to the oil control valve (OCV) used in constant variable valve timing (CVVT) systems. If, at any time, the OCV is suspected as a cause of rough idling, poor acceleration, camshaft timing misalignment-related trouble codes, misfire-related trouble codes, etc., on a Kia vehicle equipped with a CVVT system, be sure to perform the OCV inspection procedure in this bulletin before replacement.
ASE L1: Understanding Scan Tool Modes
Section B, Item 8 of the ASE L1 certification task list states:
“Interpret OBD II scan tool data stream, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs), freeze-frame data, system monitors, monitor readiness indicators, and trip and drive cycle information to determine system condition and verify repair effectiveness.” What ASE is talking about are the modes of OBD II scan tool protocol. Modes are usually denoted by a dollar sign and a two-digit number.
Gonzo’s Toolbox: Duct Tape … The Often-Used, Sometimes Abused Wonder Adhesive
When people list the myriad of uses for duct tape, they never seem to include the various ways I’ve seen it used on the family car. I’m a big fan of duct tape, and my son has even made himself a handy little wallet, a tie, book binders and whole bunch of other cool things with it. While I’m no pro at conjuring up different uses for this stuff, I’ve seen what some creative people can do with a roll of it. Recently, I was out to dinner with the family, and, low and behold, we spotted in the parking lot a minivan with the front bumper strapped on with layers upon layers of duct tape.
ASA of Illinois Announces 2013 Chicago Automotive Networking (CAN) Conference
Shop owners, service writers, advanced and intermediate technicians, and automotive industry suppliers are encouraged to attend the 5th Annual Automotive Service Association of Illinois (ASA-Illinois) Chicago Automotive Networking (CAN) Conference, scheduled for Friday, Sept. 20, through Sunday, Sept. 22, 2013, at the Crowne Plaza Chicago O’Hare in Rosemont, IL. The CAN Conference, which draws industry
Diagnosing Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR)
Exhaust gas recirculation is the dilution of the air/fuel mixture to control amounts of exhaust gas. Since exhaust gas does not burn, this lowers the combustion temperatures and reduces NOx emissions from the engine. At lower combustion temperatures, very little of the nitrogen in the air combines with oxygen to form NOx. Most of the nitrogen is simply carried out with the exhaust gases.
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Building A Plan For Diagnosing Electrical Problems
Every once in a while, I see the topic of a diagnostic check sheet come up on the International Automotive Technician’s Network (iATN) or other industry media. Most often, the question is asked by a shop owner or service writer who is trying to simplify his life by devising a “canned” step-by-step approach to solving various electronic diagnostic problems. Although a canned procedure is a good place to start, it’s not a sure-fire way to solving electronic problems.
Cooling System Tips For The 6.0L/7.3L Powerstroke Engine
One of the most overlooked preventive maintenance items in a diesel engine is the coolant system. Maintaining the coolant system is just as important as an oil change – in fact, the coolant condition in a diesel engine may even be more important than in a gasoline engine.