Internal Engines – Parts and Problems
MAHLE Clevite Inc. Releases New MAHLE Original Performance Piston Ring Catalog

MAHLE Clevite Inc. recently released its 2010 MAHLE Original Performance Ring Catalog, offering new coverage for a range of high performance applications. Key additions to the catalog include a section on steel compression rings that explains why steel is important for today’s performance engines; and, new information regarding the difference between ultra low tension oil rings and high tension oil rings.

Timely Timing Chain Service: ‘Advancing’ Your Position in the Market

Timing chains and gears are engine parts that are usually replaced when an engine is rebuilt or when it has reached a high mileage total. Over time, gear teeth wear and chains stretch. This can cause noise, retarded valve timing (and ignition timing if the engine also has a cam-driven distributor), and a noticeable loss of performance and fuel economy.

Tech Tip: DTC P0756 Diagnostic Tips on GM, Hummer and Saab Vehicles

Some technicians may have difficulty diagnosing DTC P0756, 2-3 Shift Valve Performance on 4L60-E, 4L65-E or 4L70E automatic transmissions. As detailed in the service manual, when the PCM detects a 4-3-3-4 shift pattern, DTC P0756 will set. Some customers may also describe a condition of a second, third or fourth gear start that may have the same causes but has not set this DTC yet.

Tech Feature: The Changing Face of Automatic Transmissions

Today’s computer systems have completely redefined automotive operation, particularly when it comes to transmission control.

Mitch Schneider: Sealed, Signed and Delivered

Profit, Productivity and Proficiency are destroyed when parts adversely impact our profit model. It doesn’t matter what the reason – someone is going to suffer and I’ll bet you already know who that someone is going to be.

2011 Valve Train Components Catalog Available from SI Industries

SI Industries, Inc. has published a new 104-page full color catalog that contains details on the firm’s wide line of valve train components. These include stainless steel and titanium valves, bronze valve guides, valve seats, valve springs, valve retainers and locks, plus valve stem seals.

Tech Tip: Piston Pin Spiro Lock Installation Procedures

When the locks are properly seated, only half of the lock will be visible above the groove. Most pistons that require spiral locks will need four locks per piston, two at each end of the pin (check with your piston supplier). When installing Spiro locks, grip each end of the lock and pull apart (approx. 3/8″-7/16″). The lock will resemble a small coil. The lock can then be spiraled into place almost as if you were screwing them into a groove.

Tech Feature: General Motor’s Ecotec 2.0L Turbo Engine

General Motors introduced its powerful Ecotec 2.0L direct

Tech Feature: Sports Compacts – Performing in a ‘Maturing’ Market

What started out in the 1990s as an affordable way for kids to bang around with cars that were often handed down from their parents or siblings, later grew into a fledgling market all its own.

Engine Tech Feature: Choosing the Right Fasteners for the Job

Some of the most stressed-out parts of a high-dollar

Valves: When to Reclaim, When to Replace

Performance engine builders can’t afford to take chances with questionable valves because they have to withstand high rpm and temperatures. Likewise, rebuilders who overhaul high dollar heavy-duty diesel and industrial engines want to minimize their comeback risks by making sure the valves they use are either new or have been carefully inspected and reconditioned to meet OEM specifications. Yet many rebuilders who do passenger car and light truck engines continue to reclaim and reuse a high percentage of old valves.

Tech Update: Gaskets, Seals, Sealants and Fasteners

Some gaskets can go the distance, while others can not. The factors that typically cause a gasket to fail include age, heat, thermal expansion, abrasion, pressure, vibration, corrosion, material breakdown or poor design.