Automotix offers new lifetime warranty on repair tools September 9, 2008

The online Performance Repair Tool Store features the ability to access popular searches as well as the ability to easily locate the exact tool needed for any auto repair task.

Inside the Wave September 1, 2008 By: Peter F. Meier

Modern scan tools, both OEM and aftermarket, have come a long way. More data parameters to use, faster refresh rates and better graphing all have played a role in making scan tool diagnostics easier. But there are still those occasions when I want to see what is happening directly without going through a "middle man," and those are the occasions I use my scope.

Case in Point: Seeing the Light September 1, 2008 By: Paul Zangari

When there's a failure in a vehicle's antilock braking system (ABS), the ABS computer is programmed to illuminate the amber "antilock" warning light and allow conventional braking. But how do failures in the foundation braking system affect operation of the ABS?

Factory Bulletins September 1, 2008

SUBJECT: A "battery weak" message in the driver information system or a dead battery may be caused by high key-off current draw. A factory scan tool can help locate the current draw, and a battery history is also available through the factory scan tool, but the ultimate cause might be faulty battery management software. The bulletin includes software update instructions and software numbers.

Custom Bay: Turning Over a New Leaf September 1, 2008 By: Steve Temple

Despite their strength and simplicity, leaf springs on a rear suspension don't last forever.

ABS: Electronic Tips September 1, 2008 By: Paul Zangari

What sets modern antilock braking systems (ABS) apart from conventional, hydraulic brakes is their electronic controls. Often, barely-measurable amounts of current can make the difference between full antilock brake systems (ABS) functionality and a tough-to-diagnose problem. Here are some tips — some general, some specific — that are worth remembering when servicing ABS electronics.

Scope & Scan: Hidden Pressure Hunt September 1, 2008 By: Jim Garrido

When only one catalyst on one bank has become restricted, the typical complaint is a lack of overall engine power. If the restriction is severe enough, there will be a misfire on only one bank, and not necessarily on the bank with the defect. This bank-isolated misfire is due to the effects on airflow through the engine with one side of the exhaust system restricted.

Delivering the Goods September 1, 2008 By: Peter F. Meier

Every tech knows you have to have three things for an engine to run: compression, spark and fuel. But that is a little simplistic. An engine can have good compression, but if it can't breathe, it won't run right. An ignition system can have good spark, but if delivered at the wrong time, it means nothing.

Toolbox September 1, 2008

Penray's line of automotive cooling system products includes Penray Professional 2-STEP Cooling System Re-Charge Kit, Cool Tec®2, Cool Prep, Automotive Coolant Test Strips, Automotive Extended Life Coolant Test Strips, Penray Universal 3-Way Test Strips, Pencool® 3000 Cooling System Treatment for Diesel Engines and Pencool 2000 Cooling System Treatment for Diesel Engines.