Tech Feature: Understanding the Metallurgy in Today’s Engines
Cast iron is like an old familiar friend to most of our readers because it’s been around forever. Vehicle manufacturers like cast iron because it’s cheap compared to most other metals, it is strong and durable, and it can be easily cast and machined to make engine blocks, cylinder heads, crankshafts, connecting rods and other engine parts. But as automotive technology continues to move forward, other metals have been replacing ordinary cast iron in many applications.
News Update: Monroe & Walker ‘Drive’ Technical Training
The Tenneco DRIVE program, developed in 2005 by the Monroe and Walker brands, will target several new automotive vocational and high school programs this fall. Now in its third year, DRIVE continues to help enhance the preparation and education of the next generation of undercar technicians. “This program is a way to invest in the
News Update: Raybestos’ Simplified Product Offering is Built Around Technicians’ Needs
Raybestos brand brakes’ product offering has been re-engineered, following months of extensive research with repair technicians, the results of which can be seen in Raybestos’ new 1-2-3 brand strategy. “We conducted both qualitative and quantitative research to understand precisely what techs want and need from a brake supplier,” said Jeff Stauffer, vice president of global
Tech Feature: Dialing in on Today’s Engine Bearing Trends
When selecting engine bearings, engine builders often focus on getting the proper clearances and maintaining sufficient oil pressure, but other bearing characteristics should also be considered in certain applications. Durability is less of a concern today because the aftermarket and OEMs demand bearings that can last 150,000 miles even under severe stress from a neglectful vehicle owner.
News Update
tchell 1 offers OnDemand5 UPDATE Mitchell 1 announces the availability of its OnDemand5 Manager/ Manager Plus, Version 5.9, which gives installers the ability to look up and transfer NAPA parts to their management system work orders with just a few, simple clicks of a mouse. Current users of Manager/ ManagerPlus will receive a free upgrade
Avoiding Those Hi-Tech Returns
One of the more common complaints these days from jobbers and retailers when dealing with electronic powertrain control modules (ECMs/PCMs) is the relatively high number of defective returns, exchanges or warranty claims demanded by repair shops. Yet, of all electronic parts that come back defective, ECMs tend to be the ones most often misdiagnosed. This