External Auto Engine Parts

More Engine

Aging Plastic Intake Components May Cause Leaks

BMW valve covers and intake manifolds made of plastic are susceptible to warpage and gasket failure.

Balancing Combustion Forces

Visual inspection is critical. Any sign of movement laterally is grounds for replacement.

What Causes Direct Fuel Injectors To Clog?

In the case of a direct fuel injector where the tip is exposed to the combustion event, carbon can stick to the nozzle and cause a bad spray pattern, because carbon searches for other carbon.

BMW Dual-Clutch Transmission Diagnostics

A DCT transmission uses the gearing principles of a manual transmission.

Simple Engine Fasteners Actually Complex Engineering Systems

Fasteners act much the same as a spring due to the physics of stretch and rebound.

Superchargers: Pros And Cons

Customers generally look to superchargers for the instant throttle response, not fuel economy.

Runners And Ports: How Modern Engines Manage Air

Variable-length intake runners change the length of the intake passages depending on engine speed and load.

Driveshaft Universal Joint Tips And Techniques

Before removing the driveshaft, check for play in the yoke and slip joint. If the u-joints are failing, you should be able to see movement in the shaft as you apply leverage.

VIDEO: Best Practices For Turbocharger Life

Doug Kaufman discusses some simple things your customers can do to ensure the longest life of their turbochargers. Sponsored by MAHLE.

Fuel: It’s The Tank, Not The Pump

One of the most basic procedures when replacing a fuel pump – and often the most overlooked – is inspecting the fuel tank.

VIDEO: Where Have The Fuel Pump Filters Gone?

Andrew Markel discusses how to diagnose a fuel pump, and the importance of replacing the entire module if the pump is failing. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.

The Next Evolution Of Fuel Injection

You may soon see a vehicle that has both direct fuel injection and port fuel injection. It could be a Toyota, Ford or other make. It can be confusing because for a long time we were told that direct fuel injection was better than port fuel injection. To get the best power and economy from an engine, some engineers realized that both injection systems could be used on the same engine.