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Pulling Codes
Guess the Tool
Welding Equipment December 2013 TechShopMag.com
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Group Publisher: Jeff Stankard, ext. 282
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Associate Publisher: Sean Donohue, ext. 206 Editor: Jennifer Clements, ext. 265 Managing Editor: Tim Fritz, ext. 218 Technical Editor: Larry Carley
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DECEMBER 2013
Contributing Writers: Carlton Banks, Karl Schneider, Olle Gladso, Vladmir Postolovskyi and Andrew Bezhanov Ad Services Manager: Valli Pantuso, ext. 223 Graphic Designer: Kelly Gifford, ext. 249 Circulation Manager Pat Robinson, ext. 276
Vol. 13, Issue 7
FEATURES
Regional Sales Managers: Bobbie Adams
6 // Servicing Brakes Faster and lighter-weight components can lead to vibrations that increase from the smallest amount of lateral run-out. Karl Schneider takes us through the equipment and tools that will help prevent brake repair comebacks, ensuring customers are satisfied when braking for thousands of miles.
14 // Maximizing Tools – Part 3 By thinking “outside the box” and using our tools to their fullest potential, we can diagnose more of the perplexing problems without spending an undue amount of time on them. In this article, our writers conclude this series with more time-saving techniques.
badams@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 238 Roberto Almenar ralmenar@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 233 David Benson dbenson@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 210 Don Hemming dhemming@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 286 Tom Staab tstaab@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 224 Glenn Warner gwarner@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 212 John Zick jzick@babcox.com 949-756-8835
DEPARTMENTS 4 20 24 26
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Editor’s Notes Pulling Codes Welding Products
30 // Guess the Tool Contest 35 // From the Tool Truck 36 // Classifieds
Top 5 Tools
TechShop is a member of and supports the following organizations:
Babcox Media 3550 Embassy Parkway Akron, Ohio 44333-8318 P 330-670-1234 F 330-670-0874 www.babcox.com President: Bill Babcox Vice President/ Chief Financial Officer: Greg Cira Vice President/ Group Publisher: Jeff Stankard Controller: Beth Scheetz
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EDITOR’SNOTES 2013 Top 5 Tools Award Winners Announced, New Performance Site Launched ublisher Jeff Stankard, Associate Publisher Sean Donohue and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate the 11 winning companies of TechShop’s 2013 Top 5 Tools Award:
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Actron AIRCAT Cornwell Quality Tools Ingersoll Rand Mac Tools Matco Tools Miller Electric Mfg. Co. OTC Power Probe SK Hand Tools Snap-on Throughout this year, you — our readers — voted by telling us what your five favorite tools are. The tools and equipment these companies produce have made enough difference in your lives as techs, that you are willing to speak up and tell others how to save time and energy on the job. Ingersoll Rand, Matco Tools, OTC, Power Probe and Snap-on have been honored with this award since we began in 2005. That says a lot about the quality of tools and equipment these companies produce! Welcome to the team Actron, AIRCAT and Miller Electric, our first-time winners! You prefer Actron’s scanners and AIRCAT’s 1/2” impact wrench as well as Miller’s MIG welders and plasma cutters. Your entries help other readers pick the best tools for the job and they also help tell nominated companies what they’re doing right. Now it’s time to nominate the Top 5 Favorite Tool companies for 2014. Just go to www.TechShopMag.com, and click on Submit Your Top 5 Tools under the Top 5 Tools header.
4 December 2013 | TechShop
Join Speedville Pit Crew and Earn Rewards Babcox Media has launched an exciting new website — Speedville.com — the Internet’s new address for performance. “ We f o c u s o u r editorial coverage on what matters most to you — the fan, the builder, the hot rodder and the racer,” said Doug Kaufman, publisher of Speedville.com. “But, this is an interactive site — you’ll find plenty of opportunity to engage with the segment of performance you enjoy most.” In addition, you’ll be rewarded for engaging and contributing to this vibrant community of speed. “At Speedville, we want to hear from you, the performance and motorsports enthusiast, and as part of the Pit Crew, you will have the capability to submit articles to be published on Speedville.com,” said Brendan Baker, content director at Speedville.com. “If you follow a particular racing team or track, restore cars or are an automotive history buff, we want you. Join the Pit Crew and submit your articles, pictures and videos. Our team will review it, and then each time they publish an article of yours, you’ll receive valuable Pit Crew Miles.” Once you become a Speedville Pit Crew member, you’ll be eligible to earn rewards, known as Pit Crew Miles. The miles will be rewarded to users based on their participation on the site. Check out the site, then head back to TechShopMag.com for all of your tool and equipment needs. TS
Jennifer Clements Editor jclements@babcox.com
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06-13 Brake Service T&E 12/5/13 1:43 PM Page 6
BRAKE SERVICE
Servicing Brakes: I’ve Finally Found My Match! B
rakes are undoubtedly the largest volume repair in most independent repair shops today. When performed correctly, they can be a very profitable service. Depending on how the vehicle is driven, proper brake repairs should last anywhere from 40,000 to 60,000-plus miles, with some exceptions of course, such as taxi cabs and mail delivery vehicles, etc. Pads and rotors are the foundation of any ABS, stability or traction control system. Without the right friction levels or rotor surface, these complex systems will not operate properly. This is why extra attention should be paid to any late-model vehicle when performing basic brake repairs. As vehicle weight became a great concern due to increased fuel mileage, manufacturers began designing brake components lighter and with the composite rotors cast with two alloys. These lighter components on today’s modern vehicles tend not to absorb vibrations as well. These new designs are even more prone to stacked tolerances in the knuckle-to-bearing and the hub-to-rotor assemblies. Rust and corrosion have increased the chances of lateral run-out and thickness variations as well. Lateral brake run-out means the rotor wobbles from side to side when spinning. Lateral run-out will cause the rotor to contact the brake pads, knocking them back as the high spot of the run-out
6 December 2013 | TechShop
contacts the pads, allowing more pedal travel before the pad’s surface makes contact with the rotor. Rotor run-out will lead to thickness variations, inevitably leading to brake pulsations. Rotor and hub run-out must be less than 0.002” to minimize lateral run-out and thickness variation. In comparison, a normal piece of copy paper is 0.004” thick, so you can see that there’s not much room for error. Whether reusing the existing or replacing with new rotors, they must be matched to the hub due to runout variations between the hub and rotor utilizing an on-vehicle brake lathe, see Figure 1. Not performing the correct procedures can cause brake pulsations, inevitably leading to dissatisfied customers and comebacks. Rotors need to be serviced during every brake pad replacement and, depending on geographical location (especially the Rust Belt), the rotors
Karl Schneider Contributing Writer cardoctor@comcast.net
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BRAKE SERVICE
Fig. 1
need to be serviced due to rust alone. In the past, a technician would remove the rotors and replace them or resurface them to help correct lateral run-out, parallelism, tapering, dishing, etc. on a bench lathe and then reassemble them back on the vehicle. Bench lathes can be of some concern due to conditions mentioned previously (hub-to-rotor variations). Resurfacing on a bench
lathe true’s the rotor to the lathe, not to the vehicle or hub. Prior to using existing rotors, a micrometer should be used to check for thickness to ensure the rotor is worthy of being resurfaced. If the rotor thickness is acceptable, a dial indicator should be used to check for lateral runout, dishing or taper, see Figure 2. Advanced on-vehicle brake lathes have the ability to measure rotor thickness electronically on a digital read out, and also measure the amount of cutting depth adjustments made digitally. So, the questions remain to be asked: are the existing rotors reusable or will they need to be replaced? Several things need to be observed when deciding to reuse the existing rotors. First, is
the rotor worthy of being resurfaced? We’ve probably all seen the split vented rotor, see Figure 3 on page 8, this is due to extremely rusted cooling fins. The fins hold the inside of the rotor to the face. Discard the rotor if you find thinning cooling fins or extreme rust buildup. For non-vented as well as vented rotors, check to see if they have been overheated. This can cause small or large cracks, Fig. 2
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BRAKE SERVICE have been overheated. This can cause small or large cracks, causing lateral run-out and will deem the rotor unusable, see Figure 4. Specifications provided from the manufacturer typically give a disc diameter, maximum lateral run-out, parallelism, allowable scoring, etc. Important: Keep in mind to discard the rotors if they are below minimum refinish thickness or discard thickness to prevent an unsafe brake system. When reusing the existing rotors, we obviously know to resurface them, as pad slapping Fig. 3 is a thing of the past, as I truly hope! On-vehicle brake lathes are required by most vehicle manufacturers when performing brake repairs. Always check manufacturers’ specification when servicing vehicles. Similar conditions exist when installing new rotors on the vehicle, such as hub-to-rotor matching. When rotors are manufactured, they are trued to a lathe, not the vehicle hub. Adding to that, another issue can be shipping and storing rotors that can affect lateral run-out. Rotor costs vary depending upon rotor quality, manufacturer, vehicle and supplier, as well as the material used to design the rotor. A parts supplier may give you two prices, one for its average store line and another for a premium rotor. For example, 2006 Impala rotors from one part supplier had two rotors available, the premium rotor was twice the price of the store line rotor. While the premium rotor may cool better and not rust as quickly from “lot rot,” this does not alleviate the need to true or match it to the hub. Hub-to-rotor matching is a necessity to ensure a quality brake repair, and purchasing the highest quality rotor won’t eliminate this concern. In other words, even though two vehicles are the same year, make and model, they may have completely different stacked
8 December 2013 | TechShop
Fig. 4
Fig. 5
Fig. 6
tolerances and lateral run-out with the same rotor. In some cases, just removing the wheels can disturb rust between the rotor and hub. Prior to matching rotors, whether reusing or replacing them, clean the hub and rotor surfaces. Rust and corrosion can build up on the surfaces between the hub and rotor. Removing the wheel can loosen corrosion, constantly changing contact areas. Cleaning the corrosion from the wheel, rotor and hub is also important to prevent “wheel offs.” Once the wheel/rotor is loosened or
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BRAKE SERVICE removed, the corrosion loosens, and, if not removed, the wheel may appear as if it has been correctly torqued, however, once the vehicle is driven, the corrosion shifts, loosening the wheel. Most “wheel offs” have been related to corrosion on surfaces of the hub, rotor and wheels, especially with aluminum wheels. Figure 5 on page 8 shows an aluminum wheel partially cleaned. If it were to be installed without a thorough cleaning, it would most likely cause damage. Clean surfaces also provide proper heat transfer from the brake components, allowing proper cooling. Using a good stainless-steel wire brush makes a big difference. I have found “caliper brushes” work well for this, and they are thin enough to get between the studs and hub center, see Figure 6 on page 8. There are also the surface cleaning discs made to go over the studs to help remove corrosion, see Figure 7. Resurfacing the rotors on the vehicle is a must when reusing or replacing rotors, see Figure 8. Typically, a pulsation is not going to be felt by the technician when burnishing the brakes or a simple road test. Also, pulsations will increase over time and are most often felt on high-speed slowdowns or stops, such as highway off ramps. Pulsations can take some time for the vehicle occupants to feel and they may continue to drive the vehicle for months after, increasing the pulsation until it is unbearable. The customer now returns with a brake pulsation concern or worse — they don’t return to your shop at all. They may have the vehicle repaired elsewhere, not giving you the opportunity to correct the concern. So, eliminating any chance of a pulsation or noise concern the first time will increase customer satisfaction. In Figure 9, one 0.008” cut was made (0.004” per
Fig. 8
side) on a new installed rotor; you can see that 25% of the rotor was missed with the first pass of the lathe. This new rotor was matched to the vehicle hub to run a true centerline and help eliminate any brake pulsations. Just think if this were not matched to the hub. How would the brakes wear, would the pedal feel smooth? Now, I know what you’re thinking, how is this going to improve my brake repairs? I haven’t had many issues. I thought the same thing until I began matching rotors to the hub. Instantly, while road-testing the first vehicle, it seemed as if braking was effortless and smoother than I ever felt when applying Fig. 7 the pedal. Once you try this, I’m sure you’ll agree and so will your customers. After resurfacing the rotors, be sure to wash with warm, soapy water to prevent brake noise. I know it’s an extra step and brake clean works just as well — so you think! Try this: resurface a rotor, blast it with brake clean and wipe with a clean paper towel, repeat again and one more time. You continue to remove particles of metal from the rotor. Now try this with soapy water and you’ll understand why it’s necessary to avoid using brake clean for this procedure. Using soapy water in a spray bottle and rinsing it off works very well. Using on-vehicle brake lathes for today’s vehicles is a must whether you’re reusing or replacing the rotors. As vehicle operators drive faster (speed limits...who obeys them?!) and vehicles are equipped with lighterweight components, vibrations increase from the smallest amount of lateral run-out. Taking several extra steps will help prevent brake repair comebacks, assuring customers are satisfied when braking for thousands of miles. TS
Fig. 9
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BRAKE SERVICE PRODUCTPREVIEWS A Quick Way to Spread Brake Pads Lisle Corp.’s 29100 Quick Quad Pad Spreader offers a quick way to spread brake pads and compress disc brake pistons for pad replacement on single-, double- and quad-piston calipers. Quadpiston configurations are showing up on Toyota trucks and SUVs, Corvettes and other performance brake systems. The tool can also be used on six-piston applications. Simultaneously compress all four pistons on quad-piston applications. The 29100 can be used while the caliper is on the vehicle or hanging free. This tool makes brake pad replacement quick and easy. Simply squeeze the handle and the fast-acting plunger compresses disc brake pistons in seconds.
Brake Service Tools To Perform Brake Jobs Efficiently OTC offers a variety of brake service tools, including the Brake Fluid Tester (P/N 4598) and the Heavy-Duty Brake Drum and Rotor Puller (P/N 6980). The 4598 is designed to analyze the amount of moisture content within the vehicle’s brake system. Once the unit is on and the metal testing probes are submerged into the brake fluid, the unit will allow techs to quickly check the moisture content of brake fluid. With the 6980, techs can handle large component pulls such as brake drums, rotors, drive wheels, gears, flywheels and pulleys. The tool is well suited for removing rusty components where corrosion makes removal almost impossible. OTC Circle #88 for more information
Lisle Corp. Circle #87 for more information
Everything You Need To Test and Bleed Brakes, All In One Kit With the Phoenix MaxPro, one man can bleed the brakes on any vehicle in 10 minutes or less without a scan tool or special clips — even if it’s a tough ABS job; even if it’s a Ford Ranger clutch. Don’t force trapped air down. Push it up and out. The Phoenix MaxPro Reverse Brake Bleeder is based on the concept that air wants to go up. This Combo Kit includes the MaxPro reverse brake bleeder, 100 of Phoenix Systems’ patented Brakestrips and BrakeFree to remove rusted bleeder screws in seconds. Phoenix Systems Circle #89 for more information
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BRAKE SERVICE PRODUCTPREVIEWS Brake Line Wrench Kits Del City supplies brake line wrench kits, a must-have tool set for service and repair professionals. The metric brake line wrench kit and the SAE brake line wrench kit are available in eight sizes and conveniently packaged in a carrying pouch to keep tools organized. Included in these kits are four double-ended ratcheting wrenches. A patented ratcheting system allows for fast movement and easy removals. The 180° flex heads are ideal for accessing hard-to-reach areas. Visit delcity.net. Del City Circle #90 for more information
Make Precise Measurements with Digital Micrometer Make precise measurements with this Pittsburgh Pro digital micrometer available from Harbor Freight Tools. Accurate to 0.0001�, this micrometer measures in metric and inches and provides a digital readout on a clear LCD screen. The tool features a C2 carbide ground anvil and spindle for added durability and accuracy. The convenient carrying case and button cell battery are included. Harbor Freight Tools Circle #91 for more information
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14-18 Maximizing Tools-Part 3 12/5/13 12:38 PM Page 14
MAXIMIZING TOOLS
Unconventional Diagnostic Methods, Part 3 In the previous installment of Unconventional Diagnostic Methods (http://bit.ly/17UbxYX), we continued our discussion of unconventional uses of a digital multimeter (DMM). This article concludes our series.
Figure 2: The armature is not firmly connected to the impeller.
S
everely worn brushes and/or commutators can show as intermittent glitches in the waveform. See Figure 1. Note that fuel pumps can be equipped with an axial or a radial commutator. The radial commutator design tends to show a “dirtier” waveform. The waveform in Figure 2 shows loss of mechanical connection between the electrical motor and the impeller. If the intake strainer (sometimes called a sock) is plugged, the fuel pump impeller may start to cavitate where the fuel is literally evaporating at the impeller. The low pressure caused by the plugged intake is adding to the low pressure behind the impeller vanes, causing the fuel to “boil.” See Figure 3. The fuel pump may stall or have stalled. This could be caused by debris in the fuel tank such as rust particles, or a failure of the pump itself, such as the impeller breaking apart. A current waveform will clearly show this issue (Figure 4). The steadystate current consumption of a stalled pump will be very similar to that seen as inrush current when an operational fuel pump starts up. The current will be
Figure 3: The fuel pump is experiencing vapor lock.
Figure 4: A stalled or seized fuel pump. This waveform is taken as the starter is operated.
Olle Gladso, Vladimir Postolovskyi and Andrew Bezhanov Figure 1: Contact problems due to worn commutator and/or brushes.
14 December 2013 | TechShop
Contributing Writers and Instructors at Riverland Technical and Community College in Albert Lea, MN
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MAXIMIZING TOOLS
Figure 5a: A blower motor with bad brush contact.
two to three times that of normal running current. The current ramping technique can be used to check just about all electric motors that utilize commutators and brushes. Stepper motors operate differently, with different waveforms associated with them, but that is outside the scope of this article. Many of the electric motors en-
countered in automobiles may have current draws in excess of what the built-in ammeter in a common DMM can handle. The limit is typically 10A, with some capable of handling 15 to 20A. Figure 5b: Current after blower replacement. Figure 5a shows a blower motor that is consuming 23A, well in excess of what a normal DMM can blower is replaced. handle. Note the pattern that One way to get around the current shows bad brush contact. This limitation of a typical DMM is to blower may run poorly at high use a current (amp) clamp/probe/ speed, may run well for a while transducer. These tend to be fairly and then fail, or it may intermitexpensive, but the benefit of not tently fail to operate at all. An elec- having to open the circuit to insert tric motor with this type of proban ammeter in series and not blowlem may additionally cause blown ing fuses if misconnecting is defifuses and failed wiring and/or nitely worth something! switches. This is due to repeated The amp clamps use a sensitive inrush current as the motor speed Hall effect device. (A semiconductor falls off and regains. See Figure 5b, that is sensitive to magnetic fields.) which shows the current after the The sensors are very sensitive and can be affected by the earth’s magnetic field, temperature, as well as magnetic fields surrounding nearby wires, relays and motors. Because they are so sensitive and easily affected, they need to be calibrated or zeroed before use. This is usually accomplished by pressing a button or turning a dial until the display reads close to zero. The calibration should be done with the probe held close to where it is to be used and oriented in the same direction as its intended use. Amp clamps can be equipped with a display, or with output jacks. If the probe is equipped with output jacks, the output is usually standardized to, for example, 1 mV per A. This is usually shown as 1mV/A. Other values such as 10mV/A or even 100mV/A can be seen as well. As a general rule, a more sensitive probe will have a larger mV/A value. Although most amp clamps have zero voltage output for no current flow through the wire they are clamped to, and must be zeroed before use, there are some exceptions. The amp clamp shown in
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MAXIMIZING TOOLS Figure 6 on page 18 has an output voltage of 2.5V when there is no current flow through the measuring wire. If the direction of current flow is in the positive direction, the output voltage will be higher and, consequently, if the current flow is
in the opposite direction, the voltage will be lower. This can be beneficial when using an oscilloscope. We can set zero, at 2.5V in the center of the screen. Higher voltages mean positive current and lower voltages mean negative current.
Figure 6: Unconventional current probe.
Figure 7: Injector current and voltage using the CTI probe.
This particular probe has no zero adjustment and is primarily meant for oscilloscope usage. It can be used with a DMM, but some calculations will be necessary to arrive at the correct current values. This particular probe has 500mV/A or 100mV/A as settings — an output voltage of 2.6V would mean one A of positive current flow and 2.4V would mean one A in the opposite direction. As can be seen in Figure 7, this particular probe has very good resolution and the pintle opening “hump” can be clearly seen. Note that on the voltage waveform we can easily see the pintle closing as well.
Conclusion By thinking “outside the box” and using our tools to their fullest potential, we can diagnose more of the perplexing problems without spending an undue amount of time on them. In particular, the technique where you use your diode test function to check wiring integrity back to the PCM can be a real time saver. I have tried the technique on a number of different vehicles and it works. Circle #18 for Reader Service
18 December 2013 | TechShop
19,31,32 Products 12/5/13 12:53 PM Page 19
Power. Speed. Efficiency. Reliability.
PRODUCTPREVIEWS
These qualities are built into all of Precision Instruments’ tools, including the new Ratcheting Breaker Bar — the XT36H. This unique breaker bar lets you use your ratchet head from any Precision Instruments 3/4” or 1” square drive SplitBeam Click Wrench as the ratcheting head on the handle. For more leverage or better reach, just click the button on the knurl grip and instantly stretch the overall length from 31” to 41”. This is what professionals want in their hands when they’re freeing up a frozen or rusted fastener. The XT36H is completely manufactured at Precision Instruments from American-made steel.
The XT36H is available for purchase in three ways: 1. Accessory: A stand-alone breaker bar handle as an accessory to a Precision Instruments 3/4” or 1” square drive Split-Beam Click Wrench. 2. Torque Wrench & Breaker Bar Handle Combo Pack: You’re supplied with a torque wrench and breaker bar in either 3/4” or 1” drive. 3. Breaker Bar & Ratcheting Head Combo Pack: You’re supplied with the breaker bar handle and a 3/4” or 1” ratchet head. In keeping with the company’s commitment to delivering the highest quality, every step in the XT36H manufacturing process is performed entirely at its plant in Des Plaines, IL. Precision Instruments Circle #80 for more information
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PULLING CODES Top EPA Codes
Advanced Misfire and Fuel Trim Analysis — A P030X Detailed Analysis T
his article will document the use of fuel trims and oxygen sensor behavior to determine if the misfire activity is ignition, engine mechanical or fuel related. We will address this in a two-part series from the viewpoint of moments in time to offer a deeper understanding of these concepts. Our first article on this subject will address ignition-related misfires. We will explore other misfire research in the next article. The first step is to visualize these failures from the beginning — picture that an ignition-related misfire has occurred on a subject vehicle. We come to define it as a single cylinder misfire, prior to failure the pre-oxygen is switching and working as designed. The post-oxygen sensor is also working as designed and almost appears as a straight line when looked at per graphical data or a
Figures 1 and 1a: Pre- and post-oxygen sensors under normal activity.
Pico lab scope. Figures 1 and 1a denote how the pre- and post-oxygen sensors may look on a subject vehicle prior to any type of misfire-related activity. Let’s use a 2007 Ford Taurus as an example. The IDS scan tool will be used to show the activity. Figures 2 and 2a denote the activity of the pre- and post-oxygen sensors at the initial point of ignition misfire activity. A close examination shows the preoxygen sensor went low, indicating that it saw oxygen in the exhaust stream at the very moment the misfire activity occurred. The post-oxygen sensor went high, indicating how the vehicle has a tendency to run (rich). Note that at the very point of failure, the shortterm fuel trim (STFT) will increase and, depending on design and strategy of the system, may show impressive numbers for short term, after the processor has acknowledged this, the resources of long-term
Carlton Banks Technical Contributor carlton196100@yahoo.com
20 December 2013 | TechShop
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PULLING CODES fuel trim (LTFT) will work to get the short-term numbers back as close as possible to at or near zero. The end result is that after corrective action has taken place by the processor, there will not be a significant impact on the total fuel trim (ST + LT). This analysis is based on a subject vehicle that has good fuel trim values to start with. A range of +/-5% is optimal on many systems today, but a range of +/-10% may be acceptable. A great example is a vehicle that has a total correction of 15% prior to fault; you’ll have higher numbers once ignition misfire activity occurs. I’ve found that on many vehicles with ignition misfire activity after the corrective action has taken place, single-digit numbers appear to be reasonable. Figures 2 and 2a: Pre- and post-oxygen sensors under ignition misfire activity.
2004 Chevy Impala Now let’s take a look at a 2004 Chevrolet Impala with a P0300 stored in memory. Upon review of this failure, note that the vehicle has
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PULLING CODES these two cylinders are companion cylinders. See Figures 3 and 4. After careful review of this case study, it was clear that a bad coil assembly was at fault. The Tech 2 scan tool was used for this analysis. This observer would also ask that you take into account systems that will turn off the injectors when misfire activity occurs, the fuel trim values will go to zero once the fault is set. This Pulling Codes case is now considered closed, however, we invite any questions concerning this fault analysis. TS
a misfire code and freezeframe information as well. The data shows that a STFT of -4% and a LTFT of 7% was noted; this is a total correction of 3%, which is not a significant impact on the total fuel trim correction. The misfire activity appears to be on cylinders 2 and 5, and, based on service information, it appears that
Figure 3: The firing order shows that cylinders 5 and 2 are sister cylinders.
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22 December 2013 | TechShop
Figure 4: Is this misfire activity ignition or fuel related?
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24-25 Welding Products 12/5/13 12:59 PM Page 24
WELDING PRODUCTPREVIEWS
New Machine-Washable Welding Coat
Lincoln Electric has introduced the K3928-1 Ranger 305 G EFI, combining a powerful multiprocess, engine-driven welder with a Kohler 25-hp electronicfuel-injection (EFI) engine. A new option to the standard Ranger 305 G with a Kohler carburetor engine, the EFIengine product provides easier starting in cold weather — no choke to adjust — as compared to the carburetor engine. Another advantage of the EFI engine over its carburetor counterpart: fuel savings of 12% at 300 amps and 30% at high idle. Ruggedly built for solid performance, the K3928-1 Ranger 305 G EFI tackles stick, TIG, wire and pipe welding. Visit www.lincolnelectric.com.
The first truly washable welding coat has been introduced by Torch Wear. The Torch Wear Utility II Welding Coat weighs less than 2 lbs., provides a Thermal Performance Value (ATPV) of 12 cal/cm2, and is machine-washable in cold water. It repels sparks, spatters, molten metals and is abrasion-resistant to provide superior personal comfort. Unlike traditional welding coats, the Utility II coat does not require dry cleaning. Its innovative protective fabric treatment is bonded to the fibers and cannot be washed out. Because it is washable, the coat can easily be cleaned to remove grease or oil, helping to reduce the potential for ignition of surface contaminants. Visit www.torchwear.com.
Lincoln Electric Circle #75 for more information
Torch Wear Circle #76 for more information
EFI Engine is Easy-Starting, Fuel-Saving Option on Welder/Generator
TIG Welder Features Operator-Friendly Interface and Pro-Set Feature Built for light-industrial applications, automotive repair and personal users, the new inverter-based Syncrowave 210 TIG welder (#907 596) with operator-friendly interface, is AC/DC TIG- and DC Stick-capable — with the ability to weld up to 1/4” thick material in a single pass. The Syncrowave 210 is the first Miller TIG welder to include the Pro-Set feature, which takes the guesswork out of setting weld parameters by offering preset controls. Millerexclusive Auto-Line technology and the multi-voltage plug allow for easy hookup to any input voltages within 115230 V with no manual linking, providing reliable input power regardless of welding conditions. Visit MillerWelds.com/ Syncrowave210. Miller Electric Mfg. Co. Circle #77 for more information
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24 December 2013 | TechShop
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WELDING PRODUCTPREVIEWS
Welding Creeper Withstands Slag and Spatter Burn Designed for safety as well as comfort, the Snap-on Welding Creeper (JCW60WLD) is the ideal solution for customers who do metal fabrication jobs and need to gain access under vehicles. It will withstand slag and spatter burns when welding or cutting and is extremely comfortable and durable. The features and benefits of the JCW60WLD include: Westex Indura fabric, which offers resistance to flash fire, molten metal and welding exposures; fire-retardant, heavy-duty 5/8� thick plywood and high density foam padding for comfort; and a 16-gauge, 3/4� square-tube steel frame designed with ample shoulder clearance. Snap-on Tools Circle #78 for more information
New Advanced Nitrogen Plastic Welding System Urethane Supply Company has introduced the next generation in nitrogen welding technology with its 6057 C Nitro Fuzer Welding System. The Nitro Fuzer combines hot air and nitrogen welding for maximum versatility. It incorporates several upgrades, including fine-flow control regulators on both air and nitrogen sides that are combined with output pressure gauges and a flow gauge to give users the ultimate control over how much gas is used in the welding process. A compact, easy-to-handle welding torch gets into tight spots with no user fatigue. The system comes completely assembled and includes a nitrogen tank regulator, hand seamer, aluminum tape and a wide selection of plastic welding rods. Visit www.urethanesupply.com. Urethane Supply Company Circle #79 for more information Circle #25 for Reader Service TechShopMag.com
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26 Top 5 Tools 12/5/13 2:17 PM Page 26
TOP 5 TOOLS The Top 5 Favorite Tools of Top Technicians Dan Uricoli, Owner-Operator Dan’s Auto Repair & Tire Margate, FL Streamlight Stinger LED Flashlight The first tool I reach for is my Stinger LED flashlight. Best I’ve had in 38 years. Matco Tools Mini Code Reader The second tool I most likely reach for is my Matco Mini Code Reader. Very easy and clears codes. I haven’t found a vehicle it won’t read. ALLDATA The third most likely tool would be ALLDATA. No explanation needed. Power Probe This spot (#4) belongs to the Power Probe. Easiest and most versatile test light I have owned. Brake Lining Gauge Set It’s a toss up for #5. But I’ll choose the Brake Lining Gauge Set. Easy to explain to customers with the red, yellow and green feelers. I keep a new brake pad handy also for comparison. It really helps.
Arthur Irwin, Producer Two Guys Garage Swansea, MA Quick Trick Alignment Pro I can’t afford high-end alignment equipment, so with the Quick Trick Alignment product, I can still take care of my customers. Actron C9575 Scanner I check all the customers’ cars, whether they need it or not, and I can look at live data for potential problems, like an O2 sensor going bad. Right Angle Die Grinder I use the Right Angle Die Grinder for jobs from cleaning up a surface for a gasket, to brake jobs to cleaning up parts. CRC Freeze Off I know, not really a tool, but it is in the sense that if the nut or bolt is rusty — especially wheel bearing hub assemblies — it works like a tool. Power Probe The best and easiest way to test an electronic component, to know if it’s bad, or if it’s just a wire or fuse; saves $$$. TS
26 December 2013 | TechShop
29 Top 5 Tool Winners TS 12/5/13 1:03 PM Page 29
30 Guess the Tool_Dec 12/5/13 1:04 PM Page 30
Guess The Tool! Win $50! Have some fun with TechShop! Our Guess the Tool contest keeps you guessing each issue.
What type of tool or equipment does this picture represent?
#18
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If you think you know the answer, go to www.TechShopMag.com and click “Guess the Tool” on the nav bar. Submit your answer and contact information. A winner will be randomly selected from correct entries by the TechShop staff and awarded $50.
The deadline to enter is January 16. The winner’s name will appear in the February issue of TechShop.
#17 Contest #17’s Guess the Tool winner is Rick Bohanan, owner of Rick’s Service Center in Sevierville, TN. Rick’s correct answer of Refrigerant Identifier won him $50! Be sure to try your guess at contest #18. You could be our next $50 winner! Rules: Only one winner will be selected. Chances of winning are dependent upon the number of correct entries received. Employees of Babcox Media, industry manufacturers and TechShop advertisers are not eligible to enter.
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December 2013 | TechShop
! D E V L O S
19,31,32 Products 12/5/13 12:54 PM Page 31
PRODUCTPREVIEWS Android-Based Diagnostics Tool Debuts
New Gimbal Ratchet Unveiled at 2013 SEMA Show GearWrench, an Apex Tool Group brand, debuted at the 2013 SEMA Show its new Gimbal Ratchet, which offers enhanced ratcheting access for professional automotive technicians. The Gimbal Ratchet design allows the ratchet head to rotate on two planes, providing easier access for the end user. The 72-tooth ratcheting mechanism provides a 5° swing arc and allows technicians to spin fasteners on and off in hard-toreach areas where it’s difficult to use a standard ratchet. Like other GearWrench ratchets, the Gimbal Ratchet exceeds ASME performance requirements. The anodized aluminum finish offers protection and makes the ratchet easy to clean. GearWrench, an Apex Tool Group brand Circle #81 for more information
OTC’s latest scan tool, the Android-based Encore, is designed for the individual technician and features more than 30 years of OEM, domestic, Asian and European vehicle information, and a boot time of less than 15 seconds thanks to the powerful Android OS. Additional benefits include an onboard battery, embedded resources AutoDetect, Code-Assist, SymptomAssist and Repair-Trac and access to the Google Play store. Utilizing Wi-Fi and Bluetooth wireless capability, technicians can spend more time diagnosing and fixing vehicles without having to leave the vehicle to search for additional information. Encore’s 7-in. touch screen recognizes common device commands such as swipe and pinch. OTC Circle #82 for more information
Circle #31 for Reader Service TechShopMag.com
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19,31,32 Products 12/5/13 12:54 PM Page 32
PRODUCTPREVIEWS Alemite Offers New Used Fluid Drain Alemite has introduced its new Model 8592 Used Fluid Drain for collecting fluids from beneath lift-mounted vehicles. The Model 8592’s portable, upright design features a 26-gallon reservoir molded from high-strength, chemical-resistant polyethylene for lighter weight, reduced corrosion and lower risk of damage to surrounding vehicles. Its 18” offset funnel includes a removable metal filter screen and secondary debris screen, and the funnel height can be adjusted from 53” to 79”. The reservoir is supported by two 4” ball-bearing swivel casters and two 10” fixed-axle wheels selected for their size, durability and resistance to shop chemicals. Also, the reservoir provides large, recessed pockets for convenient tool and used filter storage. Alemite Circle #83 for more information
The Ultimate Motorsports Jack System Ranger Products, a division of BendPak, recently unveiled its new QuickJack portable jack system that makes vehicle maintenance on the track and off convenient and lightning fast. The 3,500-lb. capacity lightweight QuickJack can go anywhere and can be easily stowed in the trunk or back seat of most cars. Simply position the lightweight jack frames under the vehicle, push the raise button on the remote hand-held pendant control and in less than 10 seconds the entire car is almost 2’ off the ground. The QuickJack collapses to a low 3” profile so it fits where other jacks don’t. Features opencenter design, rugged safety lock bars, remote pendant control on a 20’ cord, quick-connect hoses and a built-in flow divider for precisely equalized lifting. Visit www.quickjack.com. BendPak-Ranger Circle #85 for more information
Much More Than Scissors Micro-teeth, cable cutting groove and crimping pliers make this tool much more than a pair of scissors. Beta Tools of Italy has designed the 1128BCX with stainless-steel blades that have micro-teeth on the cutting edge to provide a non-slip cutting process. There is also a notch in both blades so that your wire won’t be pushed out while being cut. The body of the handle has a built-in crimper for crimping single-tube, automotive wire terminals. The handles also have rubber trigger-finger grips built into the outside surface. Beta Tools of Italy Circle #84 for more information
Circle #32 for Reader Service
32 December 2013 | TechShop
33 AVI Test TS 12/5/13 1:08 PM Page 33
34 Tool Connect TS 12/5/13 1:08 PM Page 34
35 Tool Truck_Dec 12/5/13 1:20 PM Page 35
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36 Classifieds_ad index_Dec 12/5/13 1:22 PM Page 36
CLASSIFIEDS
AD INDEX Advertiser Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Page Number Alert Stamping . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 Autel.us . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17 Autodata Publications . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19 Bartec USA, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22 BendPak . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .9, 10, 28, 29, 35 Bosch Automotive Service Solutions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .1 Campbell Hausfeld . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31 Coastal Boot . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cover 2, 36 Durofix Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7 Florida-Pneumatic . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Harbor Freight Tools . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23 Homak Manufacturing Company Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37 Hunter Engineering Co. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13 Induction Innovations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 Innova Electronics Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5 K-Seal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3 Kaeser Compressors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25 Launch Tech USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15 Pacific Automotive Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12 Plyworx . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35 Precision Instruments, Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21 SK Hand Tool . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18 Snap-on . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cover 4 Zendex Tool Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .35
36 December 2013 | TechShop
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Circle #37 for Reader Service
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