Tech Tip: Excessive Starter Voltage Drop Prevents Proper Operation
Most people assume the starter is grounded because it is bolted to the engine. However, that does not mean it’s grounded properly. The combination of road dirt, salt corrosion, engine heat and vehicle age can prevent a good starter-to-engine ground (metal-to-metal contact). A good ground path should measure zero voltage loss (no voltage drop).
Tech Tip: GM Power Steering Gear Pop or Crunch Noise
Some GM vehicle owners may experience a crunch and/or popping sound during low-speed turning. This condition is caused because the lower control arm may be striking the steering knuckle during full-turn type maneuvers, causing the crunch sound. Slight movement between the steering gear attaching bolt threads and the frame rail inboard steering gear attaching holes may cause the popping sound.
Tech Tip: Is Caliper Replacement a Wheel of Fortune or Does it Sometimes Cost a Fortune?
Have you ever looked for something in the shop only to be frustrated when someone else comes by (usually the boss) and reveals the item right before your eyes?
Tech Tip: Brake Hose May Cause Low Pedal
To diagnose a sinking, low or spongy brake pedal, begin by isolating the master cylinder. Remove the lines from the master cylinder and insert blocking plugs into the ports. Press on the brake pedal. If the pedal is firm and hard, the master cylinder is good. If the pedal still drops, either air is in the unit or it is bypassing internally. Bleed the unit or replace as necessary.
Aftermarket Update
Carter Helps Eliminate Fuel Delivery Service Comebacks Carter Fuel Delivery Products has developed a variety of innovative training tools and other materials to help aftermarket professionals eliminate customer comebacks and product returns associated with the diagnosis and repair of fuel system problems on millions of late-model vehicles. Carter has introduced an interactive Fuel Delivery Diagnostics
Aftermarket Update
Free PR and Check-Up Forms for National Car Care Month Events Freebies abound for service providers offering in-house vehicle check ups during National Car Care Month in April. First, the official check-up forms are free from the Car Care Council. Simply estimate the number needed and call 1-240-333-1088 or order online at www.carcare.org. Second, there’s
Aftermarket Update: Dana Launches New Automotive Website
Toledo, OH – Dana Corp. has launched its newly redesigned automotive website, located in the automotive section of www.dana.com. The new site offers expanded content and better navigation capabilities. Products are grouped into five main categories: • Architecture, which features products such as bi-metallic structures, cradles, frames, side rails, and twist beam axles; • Chassis,
News: New AAIA Chairman Caracci Lays Out ‘Positive Vision for the Aftermarket’
Broadview, IL – David Caracci, newly elected chairman of the board of directors for the Automotive Aftermarket Industry Association (AAIA), has laid out his “positive vision for the aftermarket as we work together to meet the challenges and potential of today and tomorrow.” As he assumes one of the most influential roles in the U.S.
Flash Reprogramming
Would you believe flash reprogrammable PCMs have been in vehicles for more than a decade? The first such application was the 1990 Geo Storm. Why a humdrum car like the Storm would be the first to receive a flash reprogrammable computer system is unknown. You’d think GM would have chosen a more high profile vehicle