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
Mercedes SLK230 K40 Relay Module
This week's tech post will cover diagnosing, removing, and installing a multi-function relay module in a 2000 Mercedes SLK230 roadster. First, the customer complaint: car runs great, no problems, but it will occasionally die and fail to restart. About 15-20 minutes later, it will usually start and all is well until it does it again. … Continue reading Mercedes SLK230 K40 Relay Module
Tech Tip Tuesday: Coolant vs. Water
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
Happy Memorial Day!
Happy Memorial Day from The Service Station Blog! While I'm sure many of you are enjoying a nice 3 day weekend because of this holiday, let's not forget what Memorial Day is all about. God bless all the soldiers who made the ultimate sacrifice for their (our!) country and their families. Memorial Day isn't just … Continue reading Happy Memorial Day!
What year is my car?
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?
Tech Tip Tuesday: Removing and Installing Studs
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
Impromptu Cruise Thru – Williamsburg, VA
My wife and I went on our anniversary trip this year to Colonial Williamsburg, VA. In doing some research concerning where we would eat, stay, things we should do, etc. she came across this little diner called Shorty's Diner. Sure, it's a nice little place with great food, but she went the extra mile by figuring … Continue reading Impromptu Cruise Thru – Williamsburg, VA
Tech Tip Tuesday: Why Replace in Pairs?
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?
Updates soon!!
Guys, it feels like it's been about a thousand years since I posted anything and for that I'm terrible sorry. Things have really been hectic around the college with massive shop workloads, Baptist Friends Conference, graduation looming in just a few weeks, and just general pandemonium. I'll try to post a couple things between now … Continue reading Updates soon!!
Destroyed Ball Joint
Check back for an upcoming tech article featuring riveted ball joints (a mechanic's nemesis!), but I had to share these pictures this weekend. Look at the difference between the right side and the left side (left is mutilated)! These were lower ball joints off a 2001 Chevy S10 4x4. Here's some of the damage to the … Continue reading Destroyed Ball Joint
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