Archives : 2012 : October
Scan Tools Have Come A Long Way Over The Years
The year was 1980. GM came out with the Assembly Line Diagnostic Link otherwise known as the ALDL. It was used as a tool for diagnosing on-board computer functions prior to the vehicle being rolled off the assembly line. Shortly afterward, the entire industry jumped on board, using this connection as an access point to the brains of the vehicle for servicing it. This was the beginnings of the scan tool.
Modern scan tools are much more advanced than these early, rudimentary devices. They can diagnose a wide variety of troubles that would otherwise take a great deal of time to resolve. When using a modern scan tool, the first order of business is to inspect various vehicle components to rule out any mechanical problems that might trigger a false trouble code. The technician should check wiring, hoses, cables and more.
Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC’s) would be the most frequent reason for use. These codes are not necesarily a diagnosis of the specific problem, but the are an indicator of a problem within a specific system or area of the car. These codes provide a starting point, but they do not typically point to the specific problem. Chasing codes has been further expanded in more recent years as many states adapot OBD II checks instead of the more traditional testing through the tailpipe of the automobile.
When purchasing a scan tool, you’ll want to choose one that meets a wide range of uses. Make sure you can see what kinds of codes will be displayed. Some scanners only list generic OBDII codes, not providing the most precise detail that you need.
Some problems within certain vehicle systems cannot show up in the trouble codes. In these circumstances, it is up to the experienced technician to decipher the serial data, or Parameter Identification Date (PID). If a sytem falls outside of it’s normal specified values, you need to investiugate further.
Just as with any thing, a scan tool is a tool to assist you, but it is not a cure-all.
Customer XPR10A Two Post Lift Testimonial and Pictures
Here we go again. We constantly receive new pictures from customers each week showing us their new lifts that they have purchased from us. And we love getting them. It gives them a sense of pride in showing off their new lift as well as their sweet ride, or rides. And it gives us the opportunity to get feedback from them. We want to hear all feedback – positive or negative. We need to hear from you. It just simply helps us to serve you better.
This post features a picture and testimonial from a customer from West Hampton, MA. He purchased a BendPak XPR-10A two post lift.This is an asymmetric lift that also has the capability to position the vehicle symmetrically as well if needed. This feature comes in handy when you have a rear heavy vehicle, like a car with the engine in the rear, or a service van with lots of equipment in the back, as well as extra long trucks, like a crew cab dually.
Here’s what he wrote –
Hey Guys, My car is in the air! Great lift. No issues with install. Please feel free to use any or all pictures of my XPR-10A 10,000 lb. lift. Thanks again.
Don Kelley
West Hampton, MA
Electric Cars Not Living Up to Hype
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Dec 2010
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Jan 2011
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Feb 2011
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Mar 2011
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Total
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Volt
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326
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321
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281
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608
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1,536
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Leaf
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19
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87
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67
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298
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471
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Automotive Battery
Diesel System Cleaner By ASEDeals.com
Diesel engines have changed over the years. Performance has improved, and manufacturers have decreased emissions dramatically. However these improvements have not eliminated the need for service.
Sulphur content and contaminants have been decreased and performance has been enhanced by improvements to the fuel as well as the engineering of the latest electronically controlled engines. When diesel as well as other carbon based fuels are burned, a by product that is produced is Carbon (long with other contaminants).
Carbon deposits cause all kinds of problems and lead to inefficient fuel combustion because they do not atomize as well. When you shut down a diesel engine, the fuels in the motor is extremely hot, and the fuel separates as the heavier components settle to the bottom. This is the leading cause of the fuel system problems.
Given these common problems, it stands to reason that it’s a good idea to prevent these problems before they occur, so that you dont need to replace more expensive engine components, like fuel injectors and pumps.
This is where our Motorvac Diesel Tune IDT 4000 comes in. After you connect it to the vehicle’s system, the detergent is circulated through the fuel system and cleans deposits off the injectors, valves, rings, fuel pump, and other surfaces. The contaminants are removed by a 5 micron filter to leave the system clean and fresh.
