External Auto Engine Parts
Tech Feature: Boosting Profits Through Turbocharger Services

A turbo’s basic purpose is to boost power, so when an otherwise healthy engine suddenly becomes anemic, it often (but not always) means turbo trouble.

Tech Feature: Engine Technology Gets a Boost

As a technician, you’ll need to understand how Ford’s EcoBoost turbocharged gasoline direct injection engine works, since the automaker plans to incorporate it in 90% of its new vehicles over the next three years.

Tech Tip: Multiple Cylinder Misfire or Rough Idle on Chrysler Models

This bulletin involves rotating all engine exhaust valves, replacing the valve spring retainer locks with a new design to increase valve rotation at lower rpm, inspecting/replacing the MAP sensor (as necessary), and decarbonizing the combustion

Tech Tip: Poor Throttle Response on VW’s Diesel Engine

Condition: Poor throttle response on 1.9L TDI equipped vehicle. Models affected include 1999-2003 Golf and Jetta, 2001-’03 Jetta Wagon and 1998-2003 New Beetle (all ALH, 1.9L TDI engines).

Jeep Fuel Problems Needn’t Be an Uphill Battle

The Jeep Grand Cherokee has been a dependable vehicle for many vehicle owners over the years. However, the SUV has had a few fuel system problem that has put Jeeps in repair shops. In this article, we’ll address some fuel system complaints that have plagued these vehicles.

Ford Water-in-Fuel Indicator Dampens Driver’s Spirit

Some 2003-’04 Ford F Super Duty/Excursion (vehicles with 6.0L Powerstroke engine built prior to Nov. 1, 2003) owners may complain of an illuminated water-in-fuel (WIF) lamp. The lamp does not turn off after water has been drained from the horizontal fuel conditioning module (HFCM).

Tech Tip: Cool Fix for a Ford Diesel

A Ford truck, SUV or van owner may complain of a crank/no-start condition, lack of power and coolant leak. Some vehicles equipped with a 6.0L diesel engine may exhibit those symptoms, along with oil in the coolant. The coolant leak creates a low coolant condition, which may cause the engine to overheat or result in no cabin heat.

Tech Tip: Use Caution when Replacing Ford Diesel Cylinder Heads

According to Ford’s TSB 06-24-4, some 2003-’07 vehicles equipped with a 6.0L engine may require the cylinder head to be replaced, while design changes can affect interchangeability between model years and service of 2003-’07 6.0L engines.

Tech Feature: Servicing Diesels in Your Shop

Is there a diesel in your service bay? Maybe not now, but there definitely will be in your future. You’re going to see trucks as well as SUVs and passenger cars. Mercedes-Benz produced a 3.0L V6 diesel-powered SUV for the 2008 model year and Volkswagen has a Twinturbo 5.0L V10 diesel engine in its Touareg. As the automakers focus on better fuel economy, you might say the diesels are coming again.

Tech Tip: Replacing a Volvo Fuel Pump Connector

Use the following procedure to replace the fuel pump connector on 1993 and newer 850, S70, V70 and C70 models. For five-door vehicles, remove the four screws from the floor hatch, pull the hatch backward and lift it out. For four-door vehicles, remove the floor mat, loosen the right panel at the front edge and fold it away.

Tech Feature: Diagnosing Repeat Fuel Pump Failures

During the past several years, I’ve encountered many vehicles that were running on their third or fourth new fuel pump in as many years. As with many repeat failures, the initial fuel pump installations were sloppy or a brand of fuel pump with a known high failure rate had been installed. In the remaining cases, an OE or aftermarket-equivalent fuel pump had been installed, but fuel tank contamination had been overlooked as a cause of the premature failure.

Tech Tip: Nissan MIL On/DTC P1491 Set

A 2001 Frontier (D22) or Xterra (WD22) may exhibit one or both of the following symptoms: MIL "On" with DTC P1491 (Vacuum Cut Valve Bypass Valve – VC CUT/V BYPASS/V) stored in the ECM; and/or difficulty refueling the vehicle. The vehicle’s fuel tank may need to be replaced. Use the appropriate Service Procedure provided in this bulletin to diagnose and repair these incidents, if they should occur ….