Air filters are designed to protect the engine from contaminants such as bugs, dust, dirt and other debris. Engines do not perform well when the filters are subjected to water and snow, as these conditions promote a hydro-lock of the filter media. When the hydro-lock condition occurs, the filter can be pulled from the air […]
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With proper maintenance and timely service intervals, the life of the engine and related components can be extended. Neglecting these service intervals can result in poor engine performance and internal engine damage due to the formation of sludge deposits. These deposits can restrict the flow of lubricant, promoting accelerated wear.
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Identifying noises that should be considered a normal characteristic or a mechanical defect can be a challenge, even for the most experienced technician. Some engines, systems and components come with their own noise characteristics that we would once consider a defect, but now are considered a normal characteristic. Some mechanical failures may not receive immediate […]
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Nothing can be more frustrating than spending countless hours trying to diagnose and resolve a customer’s complaint only to determine late in the diagnosis there was a factory bulletin available that would have quickly resolved the problem. In many cases, the material contained in the TSB, campaign or recall is the only solution, as the […]
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When diagnosing a misfire condition most automatically assume an ignition or fuel related condition as the culprit. This would involve a defective spark plug, ignition wire, ignition coil, fuel injector, etc. While these components are the most likely candidates that would result in a misfire, some other conditions must also be considered with today’s engines […]
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New technology poses new challenges. Many of these challenges require more than the information provided in repair manuals or diagnostic code charts. Much is learned once the vehicle is put into service and into real world vehicle operating conditions. Following are some conditions that can promote difficult to diagnose symptoms.
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Determining if the performance symptom is due to the vapor pressure of the fuel, carbon buildup, or sticking valves due to gum and varnish can be a challenge.
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Vehicle modifications can create some interesting challenges for a technician. The first step in the diagnostic process is a discussion with the vehicle owner, and if possible, have them accompany you on a road test. Always perform the basic diagnostic steps first. Determine if any modifications have been made to the vehicle. With today’s technology […]
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GM’s Active Fuel Management (AFM) system allows a V8 engine to turn off half of its cylinders for fuel economy purposes. In doing so the V8 engines RPO: L76, L77, L83, L86, L94, L99, LC9, LFA, LH6, LMG, LS4, LT1, LT4, LY5 and LV3 are developing a history of camshafts and valve lifters being turned […]
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Today’s automotive engines have different filtration and lubrication requirements compared to engines produced in the past. Bearing clearances and the composition of the metal used in the bearings, plus changes in engine technology require different lubrication and filtration characteristics. Some assume that any viscosity oil will do and filtration efficiency s determined by the physical characteristics/dimensions of […]
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