2006 Tech Tips Mailbag - Page 3

Engine/MechanicalDynamic Test Method Sometimes a dynamic test, as opposed to static, must be devised to observe a component throughout its operating range. Another option for a fuel pressure regulator issue would be to install a vacuum bleeding cup, such as the one that comes with a hand vacuum pump, inline between the fuel pressure regulator and its vacuum source. This allows the technician to test-drive the vehicle through a variety of operating conditions and check to see if any fuel has accumulated in the cup after the drive. I have found this method extremely effective on the hard to catch regulators. Scott Shotton, Technician
Carlton Auto Repair, Wheaton, IL
TO VOTE, ENTER 207 ON VOTING FORMIt’s ElementaryConcentration is essential when one torques a cylinder head or transmission with many bolts or in an unfamiliar sequence. Write the torque sequence in yellow tire crayon on or near the bolts to avoid problems caused by distractions. The crayon easily comes off with mineral spirits.Barry D. London, Owner/Technician
Omega Performance, Syosset, NYTO VOTE, ENTER 209 ON VOTING FORMCheck the BatteryWhen performing a cranking compression test, make sure the battery is fully charged and the starter is fully functional. Connect a charger with an engine start feature to enable more precise control of cranking rpm. Your evaluation of internal engine wear may be faulty if each cylinder is tested at varying rpm.Barry D. London, Owner/Technician Omega Performance, Syosset, NYTO VOTE, ENTER 210 ON VOTING FORMWiggle  ItVW and Audi vehicles can have questionable ignition switches. Sometimes a wiggle test is all that is needed to confirm this. Most times the car will start but some accessories will be inoperative. Another easy test is to unplug the switch and jump the appropriate wires at the plug. Just remember to leave the key in the ignition for the immobilizer to work.Jason Burr, Mechanic
4 Seasons VW, Missoula, MTTO VOTE, ENTER 211 ON VOTING FORMRecycle That Old BeltIf you are installing a new timing belt or doing cylinder head repairs and you lack a special tool to hold the cam while removing its nut, you can make your own emergency pulley holder. Cut off a length of the old timing belt. Use a vise grip pliers to hold both belt ends close to the pulley. This works well in an emergency, but, as always, watch your fingers.Barry D. London, Owner/Technician
Omega Performance, Syosset, NYTO VOTE, ENTER 212 ON VOTING FORMThe Carburetor FixI used a section out of a metal golf club shaft to sleeve an accelerator pump bore on a Nissan pickup 2.4. The new piston was somehow too loose.Club shafts are tapered, thin-walled and hard. Graphite shafts would be a thicker section.Bob Upton Tampa, FLTO VOTE, ENTER 213 ON VOTING FORM

Suspension/SteeringNo Seal Puller Needed HereTo remove a pinion shaft seal on a recirculating ball/nut type steering gear, first raise vehicle on a lift. Remove the pitman arm retainer nut and washer and then remove the pitman arm.

Remove the pinion shaft gearbox seal retainer snap-ring. Reinstall the pitman arm retainer nut loosely on pinion shaft. Place a catch pan under the steering gearbox.

Lower vehicle wheels 6 inches from floor. Start the engine and set at idle speed. Turn steering wheel back and forth until you hear the seal pop out of

the gearbox. The oil pressure will push the seal out as you turn the steering wheel. [Editor’s note: Just make sure you stop the engine right away.Stephen Mercaldo, Education Consultant
Greater NY Auto Dealer Association, Whitestone, NYTO VOTE, ENTER 217 ON VOTING FORMBoot ProtectorWhen performing work around halfshafts (strut removal, ball joints, sway bar end links, etc.) take care to not harm the fragile CV boot. I use a short length of thin-walled, 4-inch PVC tubing. Cut it lengthwise to allow you to slip it over the driveshaft.Now complete confidence can be made in knowing you won’t create a “new” problem while repairing the original problem.Ernie Orgar, Jr., ASE Master Auto Tech
Basset’s Service Center, Rochester, NYTO VOTE, ENTER 218 ON VOTING FORMColor Me CleanWhen repacking wheel bearings, whether on a grocery getter, street rods or airplane, I always use a light-colored, high-quality grease. The beauty of this comes on your next repack interval. There is no need to do a time-consuming bearing inspection. If the grease remains its original color, the bearing is good. But if the bearing grease is dark, the bearing is bad. No exceptions. No guess work.Doug Haughton, General Manager
Liberty Bay Auto Center, Poulsbo, WATO VOTE, ENTER 219 ON VOTING FORMGo To