Keep Your Eye on the Ground
How many times did we hear those words when we stumbled? Sometimes this can also be good advice when you’re working on electronic control devices like the TCM.
VIN: ‘Very Important Number’
The acronym VIN is known to mean “vehicle identification number” but it also should be known as a “very important number.” Here is a good example of why that’s so.
Identifying Those GM 300mm Dampers
The 300mm converter has become very popular in GM units. First used in the Corvette and F-model vehicles (Firebirds and Camaros), today it is also used in most trucks, vans and SUVs. The converter is also manufactured in a 280mm version (VJCX, for example).
Diagnosis with Pressure Gauges
Not too many years ago, before computers found their way into cars, the pressure gauge was the technician’s main diagnostic tool. The pressure gauge can check pump capability, line rise, pressure-regulator and pressure-boost-valve operation, minimum line pressure and maximum line pressure. You can even see a crack in the filter neck on a pressure gauge without pulling the pan! Did you know that with the help of a pressure gauge you can get a good idea of whether non-OEM frictions were used during a rebuild, causing a harsh upshift?
The 10 Biggest Hiring Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Truly one of the greatest shortcomings owners and managers possess is the ability to make hiring decisions on the basis of concrete evidence that a job candidate will indeed be ready, willing and able to perform the tasks for which he or she is being employed. When someone leaves or when the shop gets really busy, we tend to panic and look for any warm body to take the place of the missing person or fill the open slot. Additionally, in a labor market that is so tight for our particular industry, our mistakes can be exaggerated far beyond the norm. These mistakes can cost many thousands of dollars and can even put us out of business in some extreme cases.
Diagnosis of Electronic ‘Active’ Transfer Cases
This is the fourth article in a series devoted to diagnosis of manual transmissions and transfer cases. Electronic “active” transfer cases cause 70% of the tech calls we receive.
December 2007 Issue
Issue Summary:
Blocking of direct-clutch feed holes by the center-support sleeve causes loss of reverse and perceived loss of fourth gear in a Ford 5R110W.
Bonded pistons for the 5L40-E are now available from two aftermarket sources, and there are two options for installation tools.
