Brake Rotors & Calipers: The When, Where, Why and How of Brake System Service and Component Replacement
Resurfacing or replacing brake rotors, and rebuilding or replacing brake calipers are two tasks that are often necessary when doing a brake job. These parts may not require much attention the first time the brakes are relined. But by the second or third brake job, it’s likely the vehicle will need rotors and calipers. Regardless
Tech Tip: Collisions Lead to Toyota EVAP Issues
The Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) is on in a 2004 Toyota Corolla, and codes P0441, P0442 and P0446 are set. It was determined that the vehicle was hit in the left front. Verify that the Vacuum Switching Valve (VSV) for the pressure sensor (located on the canister) operates correctly. This is a normally ….
Stop Transmission Whine with Rislone Transmission Stabilizer
Rislone Transmission Stabilizer with Stop Slip contains a special blend of viscosity improvers, anti-wear friction modifiers and extreme pressure performance additives to solve most transmission problems. These additives work together to reduce rough shifting and friction while eliminating slip, controlling temperature, and repairing shudder, chatter and whining in all light-duty and heavy-duty vehicles. “Automatic transmission
The ABS Phenomenon: Profitability Hinges on Solid Preventive Maintenance Program
Profitability Hinges On Solid Preventive Maintenance Program An unusual event happened last week: a customer actually wanted a glowing warning light on his anti-lock braking system diagnosed! A preliminary interview revealed that: a) the ABS warning light was continuously illuminated, b) the brakes pulled to the right, and, c) the brake pedal pulsated when pressure
Matco Tools Offering Limited Edition Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle Tool Box
Matco Tools, America’s No. 1 Tool Franchise, is offering a limited edition Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle graphic toolbox. The Matco 4s Series box debuted in January and is available through May 2008. The special Harley-Davidson Screamin’ Eagle graphics package is available on two Matco models: the 4225R, a double bay toolbox, and the 4325R, a triple
Tech Tip: Servicing GM’s 3800 V6 Engines
The Buick 231 cu. in. 3.8L V6 engine has had a production run lasting more than 30 years. Like the small block Chevy V8, this engine has undergone many changes over the years to keep it abreast of changing consumer expectations and emissions regulations. The first Buick 3.8L was offered in the 1975 model year Skyhawk, Apollo, Century and Regal. The engine was based on an earlier 198 cu. in. V6 that Buick introduced back in ….
Tech Tip: Weak Fuel Pump Can Cause Engine to Misfire
For a fuel-injected engine to run properly, the fuel pump must be capable of generating pressure that meets the system’s operating requirements. Close enough is not good enough. The pressure delivered by the pump must meet specifications because that’s the way the engine is calibrated to run. If fuel pressure is even a couple pounds less than the specifications, it can ….
Nondirectional Rotor Finishes: Do You Really Need Them?
You’ve probably heard that nondirectional rotor finishes can lessen the risk of new brake pads squealing. They can, but do you really need to apply a nondirectional finish to freshly turned rotors? And what about new rotors? Should you give them a nondirectional finish if they don’t have one? Like many issues concerning brake rotors,
Introducing the New Mac Tools 2008 Taskmaster
Mac Tools (www.mactools.com) introduces the new 2008 Taskmaster – ET3008A. This comprehensive diagnostic tool covers early domestic OBD I systems and all OBD II protocols, including the Controller Area Network (CAN) protocol. CAN protocol was introduced in 2003 model year vehicles and is the mandated protocol in all new vehicles by 2008. New Powerful Features
Brake Caliper Diagnostics
The owner of a 2004 Malibu says that there is a squeaking noise coming from the right front wheel. A quick inspection shows that the master cylinder is low on fluid and the pads are down to the sensor. You tell the owner that she needs to have the brake pads replaced. She responds that
Complete Brake Jobs
Restore Brake System Integrity For Better Performance And Safer Driving The rate at which the brake linings wear out depends on the frequency of use, how hard the brakes are being applied, the temperature of the linings and the wear characteristics of the friction material itself. Consequently, a set of brake linings on one vehicle
Diagnostic Solutions: Noise, Vibration & Harshness Diagnosis
Since the earliest days of the automotive service business, “squeak and rattle” diagnostics has become a euphemism for low-profit, nuisance repair work. Unfortunately for those of us in the auto repair business, even our best customers have the occasional need for noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) diagnostics. On the plus side, if NVH diagnostics are