Tech Tip: Inspect the Spring-Loaded Automatic Belt Tensioner when Replacing Serpentine Belt
Most late-model engines have serpentine belt drives for the engine-driven accessories. And most people know that belts are a maintenance item and eventually have to be replaced. But many don’t know the spring-loaded automatic tensioner that keeps a serpentine belt tight is also a wear item. Consequently, the automatic tensioner may also have to be replaced when the time comes to change the belt.
Shop Profile: Bobby’s Muffler and Tire Center Takes Pride in Prompt Service
Have you ever met a tire dealer so honest he could make Abe Lincoln blush? Ask anyone in Franklin, VA, population 8,600 tops, about the ultra-modest owner of Bobby’s Muffler and Tire Center Inc., who sells tires and service in the town where he was born and raised. They will tell you about a man who had $125 in his pocket when he opened his doors and a desire to make his business the talk of the town. They’re talking about Bobby Cutchins.
Chicago Pneumatic Returns to NHRA as Major Sponsor
Chicago Pneumatic has announced the continuation of its relationship and support of the NHRA POWERade Drag Racing Series as a Major Sponsor for the fifth consecutive year. Chicago Pneumatic debuted with NHRA in 2004, both as a sponsor and on the NHRA Manufacturer’s Midway, sharing a 53-foot display trailer with Ringers Gloves, the Official Gloves of NHRA.
Chicago Pneumatic Invites Technicians to Take the CP7740 Challenge
Chicago Pneumatic, a global leader in the design, manufacture and distribution of innovative aftermarket tools, accessories and compressors, is inviting automotive technicians to take the CP7740 Challenge, a 60-day money-back guarantee trial of the 1/2-inch impact wrench with the best power-to-weight ratio in the market.
Tech Tip: Insufficient Vehicle Heating this Winter? Four Seasons Offers Tips to Turn the Heat On
During wintertime, vehicle heater operation presents numerous questions and problems. Four Seasons Inc. offers the following tips to ensure that the heater continues to work efficiently when the temperature drops.
Chicago Pneumatic 2007 NHRA Season in Review
The National Hot Rod Association (NHRA) season concluded last month in Pomona, CA, at the Auto Club Raceway at Pomona. Supporting Chicago Pneumatic racers faired pretty well on the 2007 season, with one of them taking home a world championship.
Management: 50 Tips to Improve Your Shop in 2008
Andrew Markel, editor of BRAKE & FRONT END magazine, offers 50 pointers that shop managers and technicians can use to improve their service shop in 2008.
Tech Tip: Jeep Cherokee and Wrangler Multiple Cylinder Misfire
The customer may experience an incident of engine misfire during certain vehicle operating conditions. The misfire may occur when the vehicle is operated between 50-70 mph and under light loading conditions, e.g. slight uphill road grades. This condition may occur at all ambient conditions, but is more noticeable when ambient conditions are less than 0° C (32° F).
Tech Tip: Inspecting the Spring-Loaded Automatic Belt Tensioner
The automatic tensioner has a coil spring inside that applies just the right amount of force against the belt to keep it tight. The tensioner also provides a little "give" so it can absorb and cushion shock loads on the belt that occur when the A/C compressor clutch cycles on and off. What’s more, the tensioner automatically compensates for wear and keeps the belt under constant tension.
Four Seasons Inc. Adds 600 New SKUs in 2008
Four Seasons Inc. announces it will be adding more than 600 new SKUs in 2008 to offer automotive technicians everything they need to fulfill their temperature control replacement part needs.