Diagnostic Solutions: Modern Battery Design and Testing
Modern battery technology is changing the way we deal with battery testing and replacement.
Power Assist: Servicing Saturn VUE Hybrids
The hybrid version of the Saturn VUE was initially referred to as the “Green Line” model because of its improved fuel economy: 25 mpg city and 32 mpg highway versus 22/27 for the regular version of the VUE. The Green Line moniker has since been dropped for the 2009 model year.
Tech Feature: Cooler ‘Heads’ Prevail – Pouring Over GM’s LT1 Engine and Reverse-Flow Technology
The LT1 engine was used in a variety of General Motors models, including 1992-’96 Corvette (Y-body), 1993-’97 Camaro and Firebird (F-body), and 1994-’96 Chevy Caprice and Impala (B-body), Buick Roadmaster and Cadillac Fleetwood (D-body).
Tech Tip: Servicing a Malfunctioning Automotive Ignition Switch
The automotive ignition switch, formerly a straightforward device used to connect battery voltage to various circuits and prevent theft of the vehicle, has recently been switched up.
Tech Feature: Rediscovering Your DMM Relationship
Sometimes we become so caught up in leading-edge diagnostic technology that we forget that a professional-grade digital volt-ohm meter (DVOM) or digital multimeter (DMM) is a vital tool in any technician’s diagnostic arsenal.
Tech Tip: Subaru Error Code Displayed in Odometer
Even though 2005-2006 Legacy and Outback models are not equipped with TPMS (Tire Pressure Monitoring System), they still have the TPMS wiring harness and R211 connector. The wiring harness and connector are located on the driver’s side, under the floor mat. If the connector comes in contact with moisture and corrosion forms, the BIU (Body Integrated Unit) may judge a speed pulse malfunction and, in turn, display error code "Er SP." To correct this condition, refer to the repair procedure listed ….
Electrical System Testing Tools and Equipment
One day we are fat, dumb and happy using a piece of wire with a 12-volt bulb on the end of it to test things with. Now we are faced with deciding between using the 10 meg-ohm computer safe test light, the power injector or a logic probe complete with polarity protection, audible alarm, light and 20-foot memory cord. Geeesh! How did things get so confusing so fast? Progress my boy! That is the root of our problem here! As the cars and systems have gotten more and more complicated, so have the tools and equipment needed to work on those cars ….
Battery Service & Diagnosis
A good battery with an adequate charge is absolutely essential for reliable cold starting. A weak battery or one that is run down may not deliver enough amps to crank the engine when temperatures plunge and the oil thickens. Cold weather can be hard on batteries, but so can hot weather because it increases water
Electrical System Tools and Equipment
Neutrons, Electrons, Klingons? As today’s cars and systems have gotten more and more complicated, so have the tools and equipment needed to work on those cars. The professional technician is expected to be able to understand electrical theory, electronics, physics, as well as understand and interpret readings from complex electrical test equipment.
Tech Tip: 15 Tips on Servicing Ford F-150s
A bold new look and some subtle changes probably best describe the 2004-and-up Ford F-150. To the technician, it is the subtle changes that he or she needs to be aware of. Beginning with the 2004 model year, Ford launched a new body style for the F-150. It is a new vehicle inside and out. However, not all of the 2004 F-150s that you see will be the new body style. The 2004 F-150 was also made ….
Getting a Grip on Traction Control
The basic principle of traction control is rather simple. A tire is breaking free and starting to spin so we’re going to place a drag on that wheel so that two things can happen. One is we want that tire to have a chance to regain its grip on the road surface. And two, we
Tech Tip: Diagnosing an Engine that Won’t Start
For any engine to start, three things are necessary: fuel, compression and spark. If any of these components is lacking, the engine won’t start. The fuel system must be generating normal fuel pressure, and the air/fuel ratio must be correct for the ambient temperature and engine temperature. If the air/fuel mixture is too lean, it won’t ignite and the engine won’t start. If the air/fuel mixture is too rich, it can flood the engine and also prevent it from starting ….