Torque-To-Yield Suspension Components (Ball Joints, Tie Rods And Control Arms)
Always make sure to check the service information to get the right torque for a suspension component no matter what type of fastener. If you see an initial torque spec along with an angle in degrees, it is a torque-to-yield (TTY) fastener. TTY ball joint and tie-rod studs have two advantages. First, they can weigh less and still apply the same clamping loads. Second, the clamping loads are more consistent and controllable.
Alignment Specs: 2010-2012 Kia Soul
The Kia Soul is one of the best selling cars of the past three years. While the usual Kia/Hyundai bits are under the Soul’s trendy exterior, it does have four different strut and spring options that can make ordering the right parts a nightmare. This is the typical “net build” vehicle with no adjustments for camber or caster. The factory manual recommends replacing parts if something is out of alignment, but the aftermarket offers several solutions to bring a Soul into spec.
Loaded Shocks & Struts: More Application, Better Solution
When loaded struts were first introduced, the target market was the DIY crowd. However, it was clear that being able to source a spring and related hardware in one box was a big advantage for shops. These units can be a productivity gold mine that can help you bill more hours in a bay by eliminating the disassembly and assembly when transferring the spring and upper plate.
VIEWPOINT: Words & Pictures, How Do You Learn
If I could visualize or tinker parts in my mind, I could master the subject.
Conjugating a verb for Spanish or even spelling some English words was a monumental task.
Ford Focus: Diagnosing Squeak/Creak While Driving Over Bumps
Some 2008-2010 Focus vehicles may exhibit a squeak/creak noise from the underbody when driving on rough roads. The noise may be caused by contact between the park brake cables and the routing eyelets.
Diagnosing And Servicing Faulty TPMS Sensors
The number one reason sensors fail is physical damage. Sensors operate in a harsh environment of extreme temperatures and vibration. These forces can damage transmission coils, pressure and temperature sensors. Another reason sensors fail is due to damage during removal and installation. One false move with a bead breaker or tire iron can break the sensor at the stem. Even forgetting to use a torque wrench or calibrated screwdriver can damage the mounting stem.
Diagnosing Fuel Pumps Using Voltage Drops And Current Testing
Some of the best diagnostic tests for fuel pumps are voltage drops and current testing. Fuel pressure and volume are influenced by voltage, current and the demand controlled by the regulator. If a fuel pump is not receiving the correct voltage, it cannot spin fast enough. Voltage drop testing can isolate problems that can still remain even if the pump is replaced.
Smart Phone, Dumb Customer: The Abuse of a Service Writer with Technology
If you have worked the front counter at any shop, you can tell a lot about a customer as they walk from their car to the front door. It is a talent all service writers develop.
TPMS Q&A: Placards, Disabling, Sensor Fit, Pins And 1020 kPh
Can Tire Pressure Monitoring be turned off? Will a tire pressure sensor fit in every wheel? Can the sensor be cleaned with a sharp pin? Keep reading to find out the answers to these questions as well as other questions relating to TPMS service.
Alignment Spec: 2006-2011 Hyundai Accent
Hyundai began selling the 3-door Accent hatchback in the United States during the spring of 2006. The Accent is a “net-build” vehicle with no built-in adjustments, but adjustments can be made with aftermarket parts.
Slow Death Of An Air Ride System
When an air ride system fails, it can fail in a big way. It is a rarity that just one component fails. It can be a cascade of failures that can lead to a huge repair bill. Make it a point to inspect the system before a health check turns into an autopsy.