‘Brake’ the Audi Squeal Habit
Audi owners may complain of squealing brakes. This Tech Tip describes a procedure for reducing squeal and may be used for both front and rear disc brake systems.
Installation Errors Increase Risk of Power Steering Pump Returns
Replacing a power steering pump is a fairly simple job on most vehicles. But if the installation is not done correctly, it may result in noisy operation, reduced power assist or no power assist at all, according to Mike Simon of Ixetic, a manufacturer of power steering pumps.
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).
Brake & Wheel Bearing Service
Although wheel and drivetrain bearings generally last the life of the vehicle, they occasionally fail due to extreme loading, lack of lubrication, dirt and moisture contamination, and, of course, ordinary wear and tear. When discussing bearing wear, it’s important to understand that the function of the modern bearing is to maintain a perfect alignment and near-zero clearance between rotating parts.
Cleaning Bearings The Right Way
Proper bearing cleaning can mean the difference between good performance and bearing failure. If cleaning is done improperly, the bearing, shaft or housing may become damaged, creating a more costly repair job.
Tech Tip: GM Malibu, Alero and Grand Am Brake Creak When Brakes Applied
Some GM vehicle owners may comment on a creak-type noise when applying the brakes. It is usually heard only during slow speed braking.
Brake Job: Chrysler 300 + 300c, Dodge Magnum/Challenger/Charger Brakes
What do you get when you mix the front suspension from an Mercedes S-Class, the rear suspension from a E-Class and the transmission from a C-Class? The 2005-current Chrysler rear-wheel-drive LX-Platform.
The LX platform includes the 300, Magnum and Charger. In 2008, the platform was shortened for use in the LC-platform that was used in the Challenger platform. All have rear disc brakes with the parking/emergency brake mounted in the hat of the rear rotor.
Why do Automotive Ball Joints, Tie Rods and Suspension Links Wear Out?
The ball and socket joint has been around on animals and humans for millennia. This simple design has been used on vehicles since the turn of the century because it works. But, just like our hip joints, ball and socket joints like ball joints, tie-rods and sway bar links wear out.
Tech Tip: FAQs on Wheel Bearing Installation
Here are the top frequently asked questions about bearing installation from SKF.
Tech Tip: Common Brake Symptoms Can Require Unique Solutions
Diagnosing brake related complaints can be a challenge. A well-trained brake technician can follow a methodical diagnostic procedure and still be faced with the same annoying brake complaint. Sometimes the technician will resolve a problem temporarily, only to have the vehicle return at a later date with the same condition.
Toyota: Insufficient Cabin Cooling
Some 2001-’04 Sequoia and 2000-’04 Tundra vehicles may exhibit a condition where the air conditioning system does not sufficiently cool the cabin. Adjustment of the water control valve is necessary to correct the condition. 2. Inspect the clearance between the water control valve lever and the lever stop. If the lever does not contact the
Tech Tip: Saturn’s Slight Loss of Coolant/No External Leaks Evident
Some customers may comment that the low coolant light is coming on and/or the coolant level is low with no external leaks visible.