Tool Tip: Prepare to Repair: The Importance of Equipment Maintenance

Tool Tip: Prepare to Repair: The Importance of Equipment Maintenance

Left gauge: The older fuel pressure gauge (reading 17 psi lower than it should) caused incorrect diagnosis due to excessively low fuel pressure reading. Right gauge: The good fuel pressure gauge showed accurate readings and fuel pressure to be within specifications.

Situation
A commercial vehicle — a 1996 Chevrolet 3500 van — was recently brought in for service with the customer complaining of low fuel pressure. The vehicle had recently had its fuel module and fuel pressure regulator replaced, due to a low fuel pressure concern and the vehicle was still ­experiencing the same issue.

Procedure
On further review of the fuel module and pressure regulator, it was determined both parts to be fully functional. Starting the vehicle, the fuel pressure was reviewed at the engine fuel rail, which was registering 38 psi. The value was well below the specification of 55-62 psi.

To validate the fuel pressure gauge, a second fuel pressure gauge was connected to the engine and the two pressure gauges were compared.

On inspection, the first fuel pressure gauge being used for diagnostics was reading 17 psi lower than it should, which caused inaccurate readings and misdiagnosis of vehicles. On noting the problem, the fuel pressure gauge was replaced. There were no issues with the fuel pump or pressure regulator once the correct gauge was installed.

A good rule of thumb is “we are only as good as the tools we use to service.” Make sure your diagnostic equipment is up-to-date. It could save you unwanted comebacks in the future.

Courtesy of Delphi.  

You May Also Like

Embracing Cutting-Edge Solutions the Industry has to Offer

Embracing cutting-edge solutions is strategic and imperative for technicians navigating the constantly changing landscape of automotive maintenance and repair.

Nadine Battah

Remember last month how I said 2024 was your year to be the technicians you always wanted to be? Remaining stagnant as a technician is simply not an option anymore if you want to be successful in the automotive industry. You must proactively seek out opportunities to embrace new tools, techniques and solutions that promise to enhance efficiency, accuracy and customer satisfaction.Embracing what’s new is strategic and imperative for technicians navigating the constantly changing landscape of automotive maintenance and repair.One of the top reasons I can give you for embracing new technology is the potential for improved diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. With the arrival of advanced diagnostic tools, like the Bosch ADS 625X, the Autel IA900, or the Hunter ADASLink, technicians can pinpoint issues with precision, reducing guesswork and minimizing the risk of a comeback. Whether it’s sophisticated tools or cutting-edge software solutions, the ability to leverage these new tools should empower you to deliver next-level service and drive positive repair experiences for your customers.Another thing to keep in mind is that embracing new technology and equipment opens doors to expanded service offerings. From state-of-the-art lifts and alignment systems, to specialized tools designed for specific makes and models, investing in the latest equipment enables you and other technicians to tackle a larger range of repairs and maintenance with confidence and precision. As the technology in cars continue to evolve, so too must the tools and equipment that technicians rely on to get the job done.Embracing new technology and equipment can also lead to improved productivity in the shop. By leveraging high-quality products that are specifically designed for today’s vehicles, you can streamline workflow, minimize downtime and deliver exceptional results for your customers.At TechShop, we understand the importance of embracing new technology, equipment and products in the automotive repair industry. That’s why we’re excited to announce the debut of our all-new “Tool Time” video podcast series, where guests from brands like Ingersoll Rand, Clore Automotive, SATA Spray Equipment and many more will sit down and join Eric Garbe and myself to discuss education and training on the latest products our industry has to offer.Join us as we embrace the future of automotive tool supply and equipment advancements together. And, be sure to subscribe to the TechShop newsletter to stay tuned!

Brake Lathe Basics

Resurfacing drums and rotors is a machining process with its own specific guidelines.

Refrigerant Oil Has to Be Right

Oil type is just as important as oil capacity.

Three bottles of refrigerant oil
Top 5 Tools: Steve Coffell, Auto World, Hazelwood, MO

Steve Coffell, a technician at Auto World in Hazelwood, MO, says his Top 5 Favorite Tools are: Related Articles – New Small Stud Extractor Now Available from Mayhew Tools – Matco Debuts 5-Piece Purple Screwdriver Set – Mayhew Debuts New Fluorescent Handled Screwdrivers   OTC Genisys Touch – Quick scan, bidirectional control Snap-on VANTAGE Pro

Wheel Bearing Adjustment Tools & Equipment

A wheel bearing that’s out of adjustment can reduce bearing life and can affect more than just the bearing. It’s important to adjust the wheel bearing endplay to the proper specifications. If the bearing set is adjusted too loose or too tight, it can cause the bearing to fail prematurely. There are a few types of assemblies, so using correct procedures and tools will ensure a comeback-free wheel bearing installation.

Other Posts

Fuel Pumps and Cranking

Diagnosing the problem comes down to understanding what causes a loss of fuel pressure.

TPMS: Are Retrofits in Your Future?

Installing a retrofit kit can be performed with the tools and equipment you already own and use on a daily basis.

Tire tread
Maximize Your Scan Tool

Are you maximizing your scan tools to their full potential? Don’t let them be just an expensive code reader.

Scan Tool
2024 Is Your Year to Be the Technician You Always Wanted to Be

As we enter 2024, strategic career planning is essential for success in the automotive repair industry.

happy new year 2024