Finding a slow leak in a tire can be tricky business, especially if you can't find an easily visible screw or nail head. I like to use a simple mixture of dish detergent and water in a spray bottle to find a slow leak. You can also use a dunk tank which is what most … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Checking for Tire Leaks
If you're mechanically inclined enough to tackle a timing belt or chain, you probably know that when you're replacing a timing belt or chain, it is absolutely critical that the camshaft(s) and crankshaft be synced and timed properly. This is usually done by a series of marks on each timed gear or sprocket that … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: DIY Timing Pointers
Ahh, the dreaded Ford "3 Valve" 5.4 V8 and it's ludicrous spark plug design. Available from 2004 (except the Heritage model) through 2008ish in Ford's full size SUVs and F-Series trucks, these engines are overall very durable and reliable. These spark plugs have stricken fear into the hearts of many DIYers (and some seasoned technicians!) … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Ford 5.4 Triton spark plugs
In this installment of Tech Tip Tuesday (which has been carelessly forgotten a few Tuesdays recently) we'll examine the importance of dielectric grease when installing spark plug wires. This particular example is on a 2005 Mercury Mountaineer 4.0 V6. The customer said he had a misfire, usually under load, but not all the time and said … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Spark Plug Wires
As an ever-faithful reader of the blog, I'm sure you remember this article about checking and replacing your belt before terrible things happen. One quick tip during a service like this is to make sure the new belt is the same length as the old one. Most of the time belts stretch with age, so … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Checking Belt Length
I recently read an article that listed 12 rules for the automotive professional. In this age of price shopping, internet reviews, and a host of other good/bad things technology brings to the automotive field, what can you do to make yourself stand out? Whether you're a seasoned professional, a budding grease monkey, or a shop … Continue reading 12 (or so) Rules for the Automotive Professional
If you live in a warmer climate, why would you waste money on antifreeze/coolant? At $12-20 per gallon, it can get pretty expensive to fill a cooling system, especially in a larger truck or SUV that could take 5-6 gallons or more! One of the main reasons to use a proper 50/50 mix of water … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Coolant vs. Water
Ever need to order parts for a car, but for some reason you just can't possibly remember the stinkin' year model? Perhaps your favorite Uncle Fred (disclaimer: I do not have an uncle named Fred. Any resemblance to persons living or dead is purely coincidental) is asking about his "1979 Buick" when you know good … Continue reading What year is my car?
Sometimes when replacing an alternator, water pump, thermostat, etc. you will run into a stud. A stud is threaded on both ends; one end threads into the engine block, transmission housing, etc. and the other end usually passes through the part to be secured and is capped off by a nut. Some studs have a … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Removing and Installing Studs
As a customer you may have had a shop tell you a certain component on your vehicle was worn out or defective and then had them suggest that you replace that same component on the other side as well. This is particularly common on steering and suspension components and brake components. Why should you replace … Continue reading Tech Tip Tuesday: Why Replace in Pairs?
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