Tech Tip: Checking Compression Ring Gaps
Ring gaps are often a confusing and misunderstood part of a rering job. There are minimum and maximum ring gap specifications that must be observed for the best performance of a new ring set.
Tech Spec: Nailing Down the Misunderstood Buick Nailhead
Like the Small Block Chevy, the Rocket 88 Olds, the Ford Flathead and the Chrysler Hemi, the Buick Nailhead engine is one of those that has the immortal smell of history all over it. Yet, unlike its more familiar brothers, cousins and even competitors, the Nailhead has an aura of mystery about it as well.
Tech Tip: Measuring Valve Spring Retainer Height
To achieve the proper valve spring height while using the minimum amount of valve spring shims can be challenging when working with applications that use other than stock components.
MAHLE Clevite Inc. Adds Clevite Engine Bearings to its Light Vehicle Electronic Catalog – Launchpad
MAHLE Clevite Inc. has added Clevite engine bearings (1990 and newer applications) to its light vehicle electronic catalog offered through Launchpad (a portal of eCatalogs). The addition of 1990 and newer engine bearings completes the eCatalog’s light vehicle product offering – which also includes pistons, piston rings, filters, turbochargers and gaskets (also 1990 and newer).
Tech Feature: Family Ties – Servicing Chrysler’s Versatile 3.3L and 3.8L Engines
First introduced as a family back in 1990, these engines have been upgraded and improved to provide good torque for the necessary applications, reasonable fuel economy and a reputation for durability and appropriate performance.
Tech Tip: Stuck Oil Pressure Relief Valve on 2001-’02 Chrysler 3.3L and 3.8L Engines
There have been reported incidents of stuck oil pressure relief valve assemblies in the chain case cover. With a stuck oil pressure relief valve, the oil pressure is not regulated as it is supposed to be, resulting in possible low oil pressure and engine damage due to oil starvation.
Tech Tip: VW’s MIL is On, with DTCs P0087/P1093 or P2293
This condition could be caused by excessive wear of the intake camshaft lobe that drives the high pressure fuel pump. The wear limits maximum pump piston lift, causing fuel rail pressure fluctuations. The wear on the camshaft lobe can also lead to wear on the base of the high pressure fuel pump cam follower.
Component Connection: Manifold Destiny
As engine designs continue to evolve, so do the gaskets that the auto makers use to seal the cylinder heads to the intake manifold.
Tech Tip: Piston Ring Selection in Chrome-Plated Cylinders
Chrome-plated cylinder liners are being used in increasing amounts, both by original equipment manufacturers, and by aftermarket sources. It is recommended that chrome-plated rings not be installed in chrome-plated liners under any circumstances. Catastrophic destruction will likely result.
Tech Tip: Performance Diesel Engine Service Notes
Diesels are setting all kinds of records from land speed to elapsed time. So if you’re not already dabbling in diesel performance, you may be soon. Diesel engines are a different type of animal when compared to gasoline engines. While both use the same four-stroke cycle of combustion, diesels use the heat of compression rather than a spark to ignite the air/fuel mixture.
MAHLE Clevite Inc. Releases New MAHLE Original Performance Piston Ring Catalog
MAHLE Clevite Inc. recently released its 2010 MAHLE Original Performance Ring Catalog, offering new coverage for a range of high performance applications. Key additions to the catalog include a section on steel compression rings that explains why steel is important for today’s performance engines; and, new information regarding the difference between ultra low tension oil rings and high tension oil rings.
Timely Timing Chain Service: ‘Advancing’ Your Position in the Market
Timing chains and gears are engine parts that are usually replaced when an engine is rebuilt or when it has reached a high mileage total. Over time, gear teeth wear and chains stretch. This can cause noise, retarded valve timing (and ignition timing if the engine also has a cam-driven distributor), and a noticeable loss of performance and fuel economy.