VIDEO: R1234yf A/C Update
Andrew Markel answers questions about the new refrigerant, R1234yf. Sponsored by MAHLE.
Ultimate Underhood: Heated Air Intake
The heated air intake was used on many 1970s vehicles to reduce startup emissions on carbureted engines. The systems typically used a thermostat that would open a vacuum switch. The vacuum would act on a diaphragm of a vacuum pot that would pull shut a door to divert the intake air.
Dodge/Jeep TSB: No A/C Over 50 MPH, Engine Runs Hot
This bulletin involves inspecting the primary thermostat housing for a resin material (debris) blocking the cylinder head coolant port. Models: 2010 Journey, Avenger, Compass, Patriot and Caliber.
HVAC: A/C Update For R1234yf Refrigerants
The benefit of R1234yf is simple. The new refrigerant lasts only 11 days in the atmosphere compared to 13 years for R134a. This is why the EPA is requiring
VIDEO: Three Steps To Diagnose A Poor Heater Performance Complaint
A poor heater performance complaint from a car or truck owner can be caused by low coolant, a blocked heater core or an open thermostat. Andrew Markel discusses the diagnostic strategies for solving a cold driver complaint. Sponsored by Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper.
5 Tricks To Solving Belt Noise
Engineering a belt system is one of the most difficult jobs for OEMs. There are contact, frictional, centrifugal and peripheral forces that must be taken into account. If they get it right, the belt will be quiet, efficient and last 100,000 miles. If they get it wrong, the belt will be noisy or rob the engine of power. For technicians, the job is even tougher. Variables that the engineer did not factor in can put the belt and your diagnostic skills to the test. But there are four techniques you can use to solve belt noise problems.
Engineered Accessory Drive Serpentine Belt Replacement
You might not be able to see it, but an accessory drive belt is always both speeding up and slowing down. When a piston accelerates downward after the ignition of the fuel and air, the crankshaft speeds up and then slows down as it reaches the bottom of the stroke. These changes in speed are minimal, but big enough to cause problems.
Ford Focus: Wet Carpet On Passenger Side
Some 2012-2013 Focus vehicles built on or before 11/12/2012 may exhibit wet carpet on the passenger-side front foot well. This is likely due to leaking climate control condensate.
Electronically Controlled Thermostats: A New Take On Wax And Brass
An electronic thermostat can preemptively control the temperature the same way the fuel injection system can control the stoichiometric ratio in the combustion chamber by changing the pulse width of the fuel injector. By being able to control the temperature of the coolant, the engine management system can optimize engine performance so leaner combustion events can take place and cold start periods are minimized.
A/C Diagnostics 101: The Value Of Scanners
Leave it to the manufacturers to take a simple thing like heat and air conditioning and turn it into an electronic jungle of wiring, sensors and computer components. HVAC units have come a long way from when I started in the business. Not that I want to dwell on the past, but it might be a good idea to make sure we understand the basics before diving into the problem of today’s systems. I always feel that if I understand a system fully before doing any repair work, I’m more likely to get it right the first time.
Water Pump Damage From Tensioner Misalignment Or Damage
Visual inspection is required to verify the correct alignment of chain tensioner and guide. Inspect for broken, cracked or missing guide material as well. It is not advised to reuse misaligned components. Also, check the chain for any imperfections.
K-Seal Launches K-Seal Academy
K-Seal International has announced K-Seal academy, an online training program on engine cooling and repair. The program is free of charge, and can be completed in under 10 minutes, claims K-Seal. The program goes over the basics of the technology, showing how an engine is cooled, different types of leak repair technology, common issues in the cooling system, and how to use the Academy’s information to add value to your shop’s customer service.
