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Catalytic Converter Tech Feature: Diagnosing P0420 or P0430 DTCs
February 17, 2010
Although modern OBD II technology has simplified catalytic converter diagnostics, it's still important to understand the basics of catalytic converter operation when dealing with a P0420 or P0430 DTC. Gary Goms explores the basics of catalytic converter chemistry and summarizes how common converter failures can be diagnosed. read more
 
Code P0420: The Dreaded Diagnostics of Catalytic Converter Replacement and Oxygen Sensors
January 22, 2010
You just pulled a P0420 from a vehicle indicating the catalyst system efficiency for one of the banks is below threshold. What is next? Could it be just the oxygen sensor? Or, could it be the catalytic converter? These articles will help you understand why the OBDII code was set and what further test must be performed to determine the root of the problem like a coolant leak, oil blow by or other problems... read more
 
Tech Feature: Curbing Catalytic Converter Thefts
November 13, 2009
Catalytic converters have been disappearing at an alarming rate. The theft of these emission control devices is being perpetrated by sleazeballs looking for easy money. A thief can hock a pilfered converter for $25 to as much as $100 depending on the value of the precious metals inside it. read more
 
Tech Tip: Multiple Cylinder Misfire or Rough Idle on Chrysler Models
October 22, 2009
This bulletin involves rotating all engine exhaust valves, replacing the valve spring retainer locks with a new design to increase valve rotation at lower rpm, inspecting/replacing the MAP sensor (as necessary), and decarbonizing the combustion read more
 
Tech Tips: Kia Muffler Pipe Drain
October 14, 2009
This bulletin provides information related to a reported "no-start" condition on some Sportage models after they're parked overnight in areas where the temperature is below freezing. read more
 
Nissan: Repair of Exhaust Leak/Noise at Front Tube
September 02, 2009
If you confirm that a 2002-'03 Pathfinder has an exhaust leak or noise coming from the front tube(s), inspect both front tubes for cracking at the welded side seams. read more
 
Tech Tip: Wave Dynamics for Headers and Pipes
May 15, 2009
Depending upon the market to which an import shop might be catering, the term "performance exhaust" can have two different meanings. The first market actively seeks out the throaty rumble and chrome-plated look as part of the street-driving scene. The second market installs an exhaust system that produces the most horsepower for a performance application. Sometimes the two markets are identical and... read more
 
Tech Feature: Servicing Diesels in Your Shop
May 12, 2009
Is there a diesel in your service bay? Maybe not now, but there definitely will be in your future. You're going to see trucks as well as SUVs and passenger cars. Mercedes-Benz produced a 3.0L V6 diesel-powered SUV for the 2008 model year and Volkswagen has a Twinturbo 5.0L V10 diesel engine in its Touareg. As the automakers focus on better fuel economy, you might say the diesels are coming again. read more
 
Tech Feature: Understanding Your Market Can Increase Performance Exhaust Revenue
April 23, 2009
Depending upon the market your shop is servicing, the term "performance exhaust" can have different meanings. The first market actively seeks out the throaty rumble and chrome-plated look as part of the "vehicle personalization" scene. The second installs an exhaust system that produces the most horsepower for a performance application. Sometimes the two are one and the same, sometimes they're not... read more
 
Tech Tip: Nissan Exhaust Buzz/Rattle on Acceleration
March 10, 2009
If you confirm that there is an exhaust rattle/buzzing noise that sounds like it's coming from the front exhaust tube on an applied vehicle, take the following actions. First, inspect both of the catalyst front tube support brackets for breaks, cracks or missing bolts. If you determine that the support brackets need to be replaced .... read more
 
Tech Tip: How to Select Your First TIG Welder
February 04, 2009
TIG welding, also know as Gas Tungsten Arc Welding (GTAW), has long enjoyed a reputation as a highly skilled, precise welding process. It is frequently used for highly cosmetic applications or those involving thinner metals that require strict heat control. This process is becoming more popular as technology improves and more welding applications, such as exotic metals, require TIG welding. Selecting... read more
 
Pipe Benders: Just Around the Bend
August 01, 2008
I like many people, I have a childhood memory of going on car trips that seemed to last forever. Usually about 15 minutes into the trip, I would ask: “Are we there yet?” This question would be delivered with the accompanying whine that only very small children and some wild animals are capable of making. My parents in their infinite wisdom would turn to me and say: “We’re almost there, it’s just... read more
 
Catalytic Converter Diagnosis
July 01, 2008
The catalytic converter is probably the most important emission control device on a vehicle because it cleans up the pollutants in the exhaust. Thanks to fuel injection, oxygen sensors in the exhaust manifolds, and a feedback fuel control system, emissions are kept to a minimum. Even so, some pollution is still produced and must be eliminated by the converter. So the converter must be in good condition... read more
 
Diagnostic Solutions: Exhausting the Possibilities...Performance Upgrades
May 01, 2008
Depending upon the market to which an import shop might be catering, the term “performance exhaust” can have two different meanings. The first market actively seeks out the throaty rumble and chrome-plated look as part of the street-driving scene. The second market installs an exhaust system that produces the most horsepower for a performance application. Sometimes the two markets are identical and... read more
 
Performance Exhausts for Late-Model Vehicles
May 01, 2008
What’s hot in exhaust performance products? Bolt-on free-flowing exhaust systems for diesel trucks, big bore mufflers for sport compact cars, and low restriction street performance mufflers for cars like Mustangs, Pontiac G8s, Dodge Chargers and Chevy Corvettes. The diesel market has been really hot lately. Turbo diesel engines are a popular option in full-size Dodge, Ford and GM... read more
 
Exhaust Noise: How Much is Too Much?
March 01, 2008
Exhaust noise sells mufflers and pipes. Exhaust noise can be irritating, as when an original equipment muffler or pipe rots and blows out. Or, it can be pleasing in the case of a high performance vehicle with a throaty growl when it accelerates. Either way, noise generates exhaust work and parts sales. How people react to noise depends on a number of factors. They say that introverts are less tolerant... read more
 
Mischievous Cats
October 01, 2007
By definition, a catalytic converter should last the lifetime of the vehicle. It can last this long because a catalyst is something that, just by being present, causes a reaction to other materials without itself being a participant in the reaction. However, real life has proven that the life span of a catalytic converter varies as greatly as the life span of the vehicle itself. One catalytic... read more
 
Honda Performance Upgrades
August 01, 2007
Service & Diagnostics Call it what you want — the compact performance market, sport compact market, import scene or the tuner market — but there’s no denying the import car performance segment has grown by leaps and bounds over the past decade. According to SEMA’s 2006 Compact Performance Market Report, retail sales for this niche market grew from $4.11 billion in 2004 to $5.04 billion in 2005... read more
 
Oxygen Sensors: Pulse Measurement
August 01, 2007
Watching an oxygen sensor output on an oscilloscope is like watching a sporting event on television. You get to see the action, but can do nothing about it as it happens. Sometimes you miss the action and want an instant replay. It was a bad call. You saw the interference. If the referee didn’t see it, he can’t call it. The engine controller is like the referee in that it continuously monitors... read more
 
When Should You Replace an Oxygen Sensor?
April 01, 2007
Is there a mileage or time requirement for oxygen sensor replacement? Simple answer: No. Oxygen sensors were first used for fuel trim and emissions in the late 1970s and into the mid 1990s. A single sensor was installed into the exhaust stream to modify fuel delivery and maintain catalytic converter efficiency. Beginning January 1, 1996, OBD II became a global requirement. The pre- and post-catalytic... read more
 
  

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