When it’s Time for a Rebuilt Engine Installation
I noticed the Toyota 4WD truck as soon as I turned into the parking lot on Monday morning. I knew the owner because we’d been servicing his vehicles for a number of years, and I was always impressed by how clean and straight the truck was for its age. It was parked kind of crooked,
Selling Oxygen Sensors
As modern OBD II technology marches on, it’s clear that the zirconia-based oxygen sensor now is being sold more as a basic repair part than as a preventive maintenance part, and it changes the way we diagnose and sell oxygen sensors. To illustrate the difference, let’s remember that an oxygen sensor replacement used to be
How Sensors Provide ‘Good Input’ for Diagnostics
One of the systems that Subaru has perfected through improved reliability over the years has been its distributorless ignition system (DIS) for all of its models. Because of the horizontally opposed design of its engines, the ignition system can be centrally mounted and made simple. In this article, we will touch on some common diagnostic
Diagnostic Dilemmas: Playing the Diagnostic Shell Game
More often than not, deciphering diagnostic trouble codes is like playing a high-tech version of the old circus sideshow “shell” game. In the trouble code shell game, we are led to believe that the pea (diagnostic solution) is hidden under one of the shells (DTCs) stored in the diagnostic memory. Unfortunately for the diagnostic technician,
The Fuel Injector Market and System Configurations
Looking back into automotive history, it’s hard to believe that carburetors were still being installed on import vehicles as late as 1989! But carburetors require all sorts of external vacuum and electronic gimmickry to control the cold-starting, fast idle, hot idle and low-speed cruise functions. Electronic fuel injection has since replaced carburetors in all import
Underhood Service: Troubleshooting Troublesome Injectors
Clean fuel injectors are a must for peak engine performance, fuel economy and emissions. If the injectors are dirty and can’t deliver their normal dose of fuel, then performance, fuel economy and emissions are all going to suffer. Dirty injectors can’t flow as much fuel as clean ones, nor can they deliver the correct spray
Carburetor Repairs & Recalibrations
As a follow-up to “Dusting Off Fuel System Fossils” in April’s edition of Underhood Service, I will share many driveability concerns and emissions failures that I’ve repaired by rebuilding, and sometimes modifying, certain carb circuits. But before diving into a carburetor rebuild or recalibration, be certain that you understand the system you’re working on, including
Nissan Engine Diagnostics
You don’t have to be an import specialist to know that Nissan cars and trucks have a good reputation for reliability and longevity. Nissan, under the Datsun name, was one of the first Japanese automakers to break into the U.S. market. They did it right, by establishing a strong dealer network and offering a quality
Aftermarket Update: Underhood Serivce, July 2004
ASA Offers Right to Repair Course Beford, TX – In an effort to educate the automotive service and repair industry about the availability of service information, the Automotive Service Association (ASA) now offers a three-hour seminar, “You Have the Right to Repair.” The course will be offered at several ASA affiliate events this year and
Mercedes-Benz Engine Diagnostics
I’ve always loved the puzzle. Check Engine warning lights have become an everyday chore for me over the last five years. It’s a challenge that extends my interest and creativity in the auto service profession. Before I deal with some specific Mercedes-Benz faults that I’ve researched, I must say that the ability to really solve