Autoparts

Back in sunny September we secured Frank Massey for a weekend of Diesel Diagnostics training. Along with 10 other 'pupils' we headed to the brand new workshop at M. & M. Garages, Taffs Well. Robert MacNamara was kind enough to lend us use of the corner of his new workshop, being described as a corner may sound a little tight, but this place was huge... and clean, we were spoilt.

We've put together six of the most common starter motor problems with a guide to correct identification. If you car doesn't start is doesn't necessarily mean a brand new starter is required, perhaps a good old clean. Alternatively, it might indicate a problem else where in the vehicle, such as an oil leak. Take a look through the guide, any queries, ask us!

Stringent emissions regulations throughout the world are challenging automobile manufacturers to create engines that meet the needs of the environment whilst still producing vehicles that are enjoyable to drive. Turbochargers meet that challenge and deliver significant benefits to end users, primarily offering more response, increased economy and reduced NOx and CO2 emissions. Turbochargers deliver greater torque, which, in turn, translates into improved performance on the road, making driving a real pleasure ...but how do they work?

Inspired by the first of the Autoparts Technical Training courses starting this evening we're going to take a brief look at common rail injectors. Considering that nearly 70% of the parc is now taken up by deisel engines the first of the ATT courses will be looking at Diesel injectors and diagnostics. This article focuses on what is a common rail injector.

Which colour should you choose?

Comma has taken a sample of 14 coolants from 14 main dealers, none of which were the same colour. This experiement shows that there is no real difference between coolants and esentially there can only be 2 options for your vehicle.  

Autoparts are now taking on Corteco, providing a range of torsional vibration dampers that have traditionally only been available from main agent dealerships.

The power impulses of an engine result in a torsional vibration in the crankshaft. A torsional vibration damper (TVD) mounted on the front end of the crankshaft controls this vibration. A TVD has many aliases, torsional vibration damper, decoupled pulley and crankshaft pulley. If the torsional vibration is not controlled, the crankshaft might break at certain operating speeds.

Modern engines can be driven at extremely low rpms. The trend is toward ever increasing engine torques. Wind-tunnel-optimized bodies are creating less wind noise. New calculation methods are helping reduce vehicle weights and weight-saving concepts are boosting engine efficiency as well. The addition of a fifth or a sixth gear can also reduce fuel consumption. Thinner oils are making precise shifting easier. In short: The sources of noise are increasing and natural damping is decreasing. What has remained is the principle of the piston-stroke engine whose cyclical combustion processes excite torsional vibrations in the drive train – the unpleasant consequences of which are gear rattles and body booms.

Uneven brake pad wear or imbalance between 'in-board' and 'out-board' pads.

Reason

Incorrect alignment of brake pads within caliper housing. Poor brake caliper alignmen. Pad 'sticking' - brake caliper not sliding correctly. Caliper not cleaned properly (excessive contamination). Lack of lubrication.

We've all had some experience with the juddering and pulling, whether it be a Mini Cooper or a go kart!

Reason

Under/over inflated tyres.
Brake Disc 'run-out'/Dirty hub mounting.
Sticking brake calipers.

Often caused by excessive temperatures and hard to spot, surface cracks and discolouration could be an indication to check the calipers.

Reason

Sticking brake calipers.
Brake/axel/wheel imbalance.
Disc blueing is also another indication of excessive temperature operation.
Pad restriction within the caliper housing.
Disc below manufacturers  recommended minimum thinckness.

High frequency continuous tone when brakes are applied, this - single or multiple tones. No one enjoys squealing brakes!

Reason

Unevevnly worn brake pad surface condition caused by scored brake discs. Uneven wear between 'in-board' & 'out-board' pads. Disc 'run-out' cased by dirty /contaminated hub mounting. Inadequate lubrication of brake pa/brake caliper 'contact points'. Worn/missing shims. Worn or broken anti-rattle springs.