ImportCar, December 2013

A

December 2013

MAGAZINE

Fuel Indicator Noise TPMS Reset Procedures Illuminated Dash Light

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Reader Service: go to www.ICRapidResponse.com

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CONTENTS

Publisher Jim Merle, ext. [email protected]

Editor Mary DellaValle, ext. [email protected]

Managing Editor Jennifer Clements, ext. [email protected]

Technical Editor Larry Carley [email protected]

Graphic Designer Kelly Gifford, ext. [email protected]

Ad Services (Materials) Cindy Ott, ext. [email protected]

Circulation Manager Pat Robinson, ext. [email protected]

Subscription ServicesMaryellen Smith, ext. [email protected]

2 December 2013 | Import-Car.com

Volume 35, No. 12

22Brake Hardware7 Items Not To Be Neglected

Brake & Front End Editor AndrewMarkel provides useful tips to pre-vent brake comebacks, as hedelves into key replacement components such as caliper guidepins, anti-rattle clips, shims, caliperbrackets and pad separators.

A Publication

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2822

28Diagnostic Solutions:‘Reading’ Spark Plugs

Import Specialist Contributor GaryGoms says that “reading” sparkplugs has become something of alost art and cautions that modernfuel-injected engines are runningat the thresholds of detonationand pre-ignition, which can compli-cate the diagnostic process.

42Hyundai Drivetrain Noises& Wheel Bearing ReplacementWhile wheel-bearing noise is oneof the toughest problems for cus-tomers to describe, says ImportSpecialist Contributor Bob Dowie,it’s not unusual for it to come on sogradually that the customer maynot even notice it until you men-tion it after an unrelated road test.

ImportCar Staff 330.670.1234

Hyundai Wheel Bearing Replacement

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03 BPI IC 12/9/13 10:49 AM Page 3

DEPARTMENTS6 Editor’s Notebook

8 News Update

16 Special Report: WIX “Best Tech” Winner/Bogi Lateiner

18 Gonzo’s Toolbox

36 Tech Update: TPMS

48 Import Tech Tips

52 Essentials (New Products)

55 RAPID RESPONSE

56 Classifieds

60 NASCAR Performance

A Publication


Columns

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IMPORTCAR (ISSN 1069-4714)(December 2013, Volume 35, Number 12): Published monthly by Babcox Media, Inc., 3550 Embassy Parkway, Akron, OH 44333 U.S.A. Phone (330) 670-1234, FAX (330) 670-0874. Periodical postage paid at Akron, OH 44333 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to IMPORTCAR, 3550 Embassy Parkway, Akron, OH 44333. IMPORTCAR is a trademark of Babcox Media, Inc. registered with the U.S. Patent and Trademark office. All rights reserved.A limited number of complimentary subscriptions are available to individuals who meet the qualification requirements. Call (330) 670-1234, Ext. 260, to speak to a subscriptionservices representative or FAX us at (330) 670-5335. Paid Subscriptions are available for non-qualified subscribers at the following rates: U.S.: $69 for one year. Canada: $89for one year. Canadian rates include GST. Ohio residents add current county sales tax. Other foreign rates/via air mail: $129 for one year. Payable in advance in U.S. funds. Mail payment to IMPORTCAR, P.O. Box 75692, Cleveland, OH 44101-4755. VISA, MasterCard or American Express accepted.

Member BPA International, Inc.Founded 1979. �2013 by Babcox Media, Inc.

Follow us on TwitterBecome a fan on Facebook

Contributing WritersBob Dowie, Village Auto Works, Chester, NY

Gary Goms, formerly of Midland Engine Electronics & Diagnostics, Buena Vista, CO

Bob Howlett, The Swedish Solution,Orange Village, OH

Scott “Gonzo” Weaver, Superior Auto Electric,Tulsa, OK

Bob Dowie, Village Auto Works, Chester, NY

Chris Klinger, Precision Incorporated, Tucson, AZ

Steve Louden, Louden Motorcar Services, Dallas, TX

Frank Scandura, Frank’s European Service,Las Vegas and Henderson, NV

Joe Stephens, Stephens Automotive, Palatine, IL

John Volz, Volz Bros., Grass Valley, CA

Babcox Media, Inc.

Editorial Advisory Board

3550 Embassy ParkwayAkron, OH 44333-8318

President Bill Babcox [email protected]

Vice President/ Greg CiraChief Financial Officer [email protected]

Vice President/ Jeff StankardGroup Publisher [email protected]

Controller Beth Scheetz [email protected]

In Memoriam

Founder of Edward S. BabcoxBabcox Publications (1885-1970)

Chairman Tom B. Babcox (1919-1995)

AUGMENTED REALITY CONTENT IN THIS ISSUE:

Tech Update: TPMS ............................................................40Auto-Video Inc. (AVI)...........................................................41

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05 NAPA Engine IC 12/9/13 10:49 AM Page 5

By Mary DellaValle|EDITOR[Editor’sNotebook


T ime could be yourbiggest ally at the onsetof the new year as you

think about ways to increaseyour shop’s profitability andproductivity. But how manytimes have you said, “If Ionly had more time?”

While you have good inten-tions of making the best use ofyour time during the course ofyour busy day, there are in-evitable distractions that pre-vent you from doing just that.

Vic Tarasik, owner of Vic’sPrecision Automotive, TheWoodlands, TX, realizes the importance and value of protecting his precious timeand offers this advice* to avertsome typical time stealers:

Lack Of Planning This is when you show up at

the shop and the day takes on a

life of its own. Start off each daywith a list of items you want toaccomplish and consider thatyour road map for the day. Likeany journey, you may have de-tours, but by the end of your dayyou’re closer to your destination.

E-mail, Internet And SmartPhones

Wow, these can be the “blackhole” of time stealers! Check theInternet, answer e-mails and re-turn phone calls during downperiods. Remember that keep-ing up with things on the Inter-net won’t change their outcome.

InterruptionsHave you ever found yourself

working on a project andsomeone stops in with a“quick question”? Well, itnever really is quick andit can take you 15 min-

utes to get back on track onceyou wrap things up with theperson who just dropped in.

Have a method in place tocommunicate to your staffwhether you’re available ornot. At Vic’s, I have a slidingsign on my doorway that

shows my availability. If the signindicates that I’m on “GreenTime,” I’m available for anyneed. Whereas, “Red Time” sig-nifies that it’s not a good timeunless there’s an emergency.

Phone Calls As a shop owner, your phone

rings for different reasons. Butjust because it rings doesn’tmean you have to pick it up. Ifyou’re busy, let it roll intovoicemail and get to it whenyou have the time. And, if youwant to be really focused, setyour phone on “do not disturb”and you won’t be tempted topick up the ringing phone.

Your customers’ expectationsfor quicker repairs and their demand for greater value willcontinue to accelerate, so youwill have to work smarter andharder than ever. Having a littlemore “time on your side” willgive you one more tool, as youwork on more ways to deliverservice excellence. IC

Mary DellaValle, [email protected]

Time On Your SideAverting Typical ‘Time Stealers’

*To read Vic’s full story, go to our sister publication ShopOwner magazine’s website, www.shopownermag.comand search for the Time Stealers article written by Vic.

06 Editor's Page_Dec 12/9/13 10:48 AM Page 6


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[NewsUpdate

At AAPEX in Las Vegas, representatives from Brake Parts Inc. andAffinia Global Chassis, the respective manufacturers of Raybestosbrake and Raybestos chassis products, presented the keys to thewinner of the 2014 Raybestos Rattlesnake Toyota Tundra. Its newowner, Dave Cramer, is a property manager with Ross Pacific Management in Vancouver, WA.

“To say I’m excited would be an understatement,” said Cramer.“I must have entered 10,000 contests in my lifetime, and this is thefirst time I won anything.” Cramer said he’s a bit of a car fanatic.“I’m single, butI own five cars!”The RaybestosRattlesnake upsthat to six.Cramer’s sonEric, a deputysheriff and re-tired ArmyRanger, joinedhim at thepresentation.

The signature-edition truck was the grand prize in the brands’Summer 2013 North American sales promotion. The winning entrywas pulled from more than 170,000 entries.

Thanks to Toyota Racing Development, a Toyota 5.7L aluminum i-FORCE DOHC 32-valve V8 with a tuned TRD Supercharger helpsthe Raybestos Rattlesnake reach 600+ hp. It also includes a high-lift, off-road suspension and off-road shocks.

Its stopping power comes from the same Raybestos short trackracing brake package used by the Joe Gibbs Racing team...and theRaybestos Rattlesnake stretches its off-road muscle with RaybestosProfessional Grade chassis parts.

Visit www.RaybestosGarage.com for more information on the2014 Raybestos Rattlesnake Toyota Tundra or to view video of thebuild.

For questions regarding Raybestos brand brake products, visitRaybestosBrakes.com or call 800-323-0354. For more informationon Raybestos chassis parts, visit www.RaybestosChassis.com orcall 800-323-3022.

Raybestos Rattlesnake SweepstakesWinner Hits Jackpot in Vegas

08-16 News Update 12/9/13 10:47 AM Page 8

09 Schaeffler IC 12/9/13 10:45 AM Page 9


[NewsUpdate

Mitchell 1’s experience-baseddiagnostic information resource, SureTrack, has recently exceeded its goal ofreaching 11 million articles in2013, providing technicianswith valuable information tohelp them repair vehicles, in-cluding “Real Fixes” from acommunity of technicians,component tests and wave-form libraries. SureTrack is aneasy-to-search system that

brings together a unique com-bination of intelligence and expertise to help aftermarketautomotive shops increase accuracy and efficiency from diagnosis to completed repair.

“Mitchell 1’s focus on thecontinued expansion of our

SureTrack data underscores ourcommitment to the automotiverepair industry,” said Ben John-son, director of product man-agement for Mitchell 1. “Notonly have we achieved our goalof having over 11 million action-able pieces of information in

our SureTrack product by2013, but we also areadding information at over12,000 articles per day andcontinue to invest to accel-erate that volume even

further.”SureTrack combines diagnos-

tic experience with repair time-savers and detailed partsreplacement records, allwrapped in an interactive com-munity of thousands of repairprofessionals and expert techni-cians. This information is avail-able in a single location, sotechnicians no longer have tosearch multiple databases withmultiple logins and subscrip-tions to find the data they needto complete the repair.

SureTrack is integrated withProDemand, Mitchell 1’s OEMrepair information solution, giving shops an end-to-end solution for diagnosing, estimating and performing vehicle repairs.

For more information onSureTrack, visitwww.mitchell1.com or call 888-724-6742. Reader Service: go to www.ICRapidResponse.com

Mitchell 1’s SureTrack Exceeds 11 Million Articles This Year



11 Federated IC 12/9/13 10:44 AM Page 11


[NewsUpdate

Hundreds of guests enjoyed a memorable evening at the “BestTrucking Tailgate Party Ever,” hosted by Federated Auto Parts during AAPEX.

The tailgate reception not only showcased the Federated UltimateService Truck as the centerpiece of the evening activities, but it alsofeatured a guest list that included such luminaries as Lt. Gen. PeteOsman, president and CEO of the Marine Toys for Tots Foundation;NASCAR legend Kenny Schrader; and the guys who modified theFederated Ultimate Service Truck, Matt Steele and Bruno Massel,hosts of the Great American Country (GAC) Network show “Truck U.”

As part of the evening’s festivities, Federated CEO Rusty Bishoppresented a check for $145,000 to Lt. Gen. Osman for the Toys forTots Foundation.

“We want to thank everyone who attended our Best Trucking Tail-gate Party Ever, especially our members, manufacturing partners andhonored guests,” said Phil Moore, senior vice president of FederatedAuto Parts. “It was especially gratifying for everyone at Federated tobe able to present a donation for Toys for Toys to Lt. Gen. Osman.”

Phil Wofford, owner of Phil’s Car Care in Porter, TX, and customer ofFederated member Arnold Oil, was on hand as the grand-prize winnerof the Federated Ultimate Service Truck Sweepstakes. Wofford received an all-expense paid trip for two to Las Vegas to attendAAPEX and claim his prize. Hundreds of other prizes were awarded toFederated Car Care Center members throughout the country.

Go to www.ICRapidResponse.com

Federated ‘Best Trucking Tailgate Party Ever’ A Big Hit



13 Wix IC 12/9/13 10:44 AM Page 13


[NewsUpdate

DENSO Products and Services Americas, Inc. introduced its new VitalScan Diagnostic System at a press conference during AAPEX.The VitalScan system incorporates a high-tech OBD II scan tool withan extensive web-based data system. It allows users to conduct hundreds of specific on-board diagnostic tests in minutes, resultingin extremely detailed and on-target vehicle “health reports.”

The VitalScan system automatically links with thousands of onlinedocuments and searches for similar cases and suspect parts, savingevaluation and diagnostic labor time.

Before introducing the new product, Richard Shiozaki, senior vicepresident, provided a financial update, stating that DENSO has “experienced strong growth, with a 14.7% increase in global sales(for the first half of the fiscal year). North American results for the firsthalf were even stronger — a 33.9% increase from the previous year.”

He also mentioned that the company is earning “preferred status”with many aftermarket customers, “a sign of our close working relationships,” Shiozaki said.

Fran Labun, vice president, sales group, discussed how DENSOdevelops technically advanced maintenance and service parts for awide range of vehicles. “A new product offering for us is tire pres-sure monitors,” he said. DENSO TPMS sensors use OE technologyto ensure a quick, direct fit, with no cloning or programming.

SKF announces that its popular training trucks have now interacted withmore than 100,000 professional technicians across North America. SKFlaunched its training truck program in 2010 to create a one-on-one edu-cational experience with automotive and heavy-duty technicians.

These trucks feature interactive vehicle system assemblies and alarge-screen monitor for showing technical tip and product videos.The SKF training trucks cover failure analysis, proper removal and installation techniques, as well as proper drivetrain, engine andwheel end maintenance practices. In addition, the trucks contain detailed product cutaways designed to show the differences between SKF premium products and value line products.

To learn more about the SKF training trucks or to schedule a visitto your area, visit www.vsm.skf.com or contact your local SKF salesrepresentative. IC


DENSO’s New VitalScan Diagnostic System Incorporates Scan Tool WithWeb Database

SKF Training Trucks Visit MoreThan 100,000 TechniciansAcross North America



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[SpecialReport

2013 Best Tech of The Year:Bogi Lateiner

The “Best Tech of the Year”award celebrates what

makes our industry great — thetechnician. WIX Filters, a mem-ber of the Affinia Group familyof brands, in conjunction withImportCar magazine, namedBogi Lateiner of 180 DegreesAutomotive in Phoenix as the2013 Best Tech of the Year.

Bogi’s path to becoming an au-tomotive technician was not a tra-ditional one. After graduating PhiBeta Kappa from Ohio’s OberlinCollege in just three years, shedid a “180.” Instead of attendinglaw school as planned, she en-rolled in an automotive tradeschool and immersed herselfin the training necessary tobecome a technician.

“After seven years ofworking as a master technicianfor BMW, I missed having aconnection with my customers,”Lateiner said. “I started a repairshop in my driveway with littlemore than a strong passion foreducating my customers and acommitment to the highestquality of service and repair. Iwanted to create a shop whereeveryone could feel comfortableand where I could be a part ofelevating the reputation of theautomotive industry.”

Bogi opened the doors of 180Degrees Automotive in early2007, just months before the onset

of The Great Recession; atime when most others wereclosing theirs. Without anyprevious business experi-ence or an automotive up-bringing (her parents bothworked for non-profits),Bogi lead 180’s carportgarage and single employee(herself) through five yearsof increased sales, clocking inwith 2012 sales at $1-million-plus/year, six full-time employ-ees, and the purchase andrenovation of a $1 million state-of-the-art, green-optimized serv-ice facility.

One of the keys to Bogi’s suc-cess has been customer educa-tion. Beyond teaching car-careclasses for women, she also leadsautomotive workshops, doespersonal and business coachingand makes presentations on awide range of automotive andbusiness topics all over the coun-

try. And, Bogi recently enteredher second season as one of thethree-female crew on the Veloc-ity Channel’s “All Girls Garage.”

“As a technician and as a busi-ness owner, I’m passionateabout educating my cus-tomers and the community

as a whole,” Lateiner said.“I love the automotive after-

market industry and I’m commit-ted to continuing to improve ourreputation and to making the carcare and repair experience lessscary for everyone, and particu-larly for women.”

“Bogi’s vision for the automo-tive service industry seeks to empower consumers throughknowledge of automotive basics,”said Mike Harvey, brand managerfor WIX Filters. “Her approach toconsumer education also includesoutreach to women on how theycan pursue careers as auto me-chanics. She represents the futureof automotive technicians and isan exceptional choice for thisyear’s ‘Best Tech’ award.” IC



17 Mahle IC 12/9/13 10:43 AM Page 17

Have you noticed how many auto-motive reality programs there areon TV these days?

I take the time to sit downand take in a few of themhere and there. But from myside of the wrench, I have acompletely different perspec-tive when watching them.

In my opinion, some ofthese reality shows are farfrom reality.

They’ll start off with someoneflashing a wad of cash or meet-ing a deserving owner. Beforethe first commercial break, theytow the vehicle to their garageand present it to the crew. The crew will lookshocked at what was just dropped off. That’sabout the time the host gives them the lowdownin the next 40 minutes on what’s going to takeplace. This usually consists of a full restorationjob, and only a few weeks to get it completed. Bythe end of the show, there’s a gleaming, fully restored work of art on the screen.

But the shows that really disturb me are thosethat use the “all-nighter” approach to car repairbecause they are done “Hollywood-style.” Ateam will completely dismantle a car to the shelland do all the mechanical work, electrical, inte-rior, dash and instrument panels, brakes, trans-mission, rear-end, engine, cooling and heatingsystems, replace the glass, and do a full paint andbody mod in less than a week. And, the best part

(or biggest guffawon these shows) is

the final reveal ofthe newly restored

gem to theowner/buyer.

On the sidelines, justout of the primary

camera view, is the entire crew that has spent

the last three days bring-ing this ride back to life.

I’m in awe of the crew, tosay the least. Not one ofthem is covered in grease,or has half of their shirt

untucked, they have no fresh cuts or scrapes,and none of them show any signs of sleep deprivation.

I’ve done my share of all-night, marathon repairs before, and by the time the sun comes up,I’m not the most coherent guy with a wrench.They might call it “realityTV,” but it doesn’t seemall that realistic to me.I’m sure the entire staffinvolved are some ofthe finest tech-nicians,

By Scott “Gonzo” Weaver, owner Superior Auto Electric, Tulsa, OK


[Gonzo’sToolbox

Scott “Gonzo” Weaver, gonzostoolbox.com

Real Or Reality TV?Our Profession Is Greatly Underestimated By The ‘Big Screen’

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body-repair specialists and electrical gurus of theautomotive world, but I highly doubt you can turnout a truly professionally restored vehicle in thatshort amount of time. There has to be a huge num-ber of shortcuts or outsourced labor used to meetthe deadlines.

I do restorations all the time and the biggest has-sle with any of them is parts availability. The jobcomes in the shop, you put it up on the lift and spinthe driveshaft, only to find out the differential orbearings are shot. You can’t just run down to thelocal parts store and expect to pick up a set of bear-ings for a 30-year-old, low production car. But,somehow, some of these shows pull it off.

On the other hand, there are a lot of great auto-motive reality programs on the television that go togreat lengths to show how a modification is accom-plished, with details that explain the process to the“nth” degree.

Any show that portrays the reality of doing thejob I do every day in a professional manner will getmy attention. I’ll sit down and watch it from begin-ning to end. If you want to show me how you

install some super-cool, new rear taillight lenses orwild-looking front grille...that’s awesome! Or, howto pull an engine out of a classic and doing the nec-essary rebuild on it...that’s super! I love that stuff.But, when you try to convince me that you’re goingto take a car that’s been totally neglected and sitting for 10 years in the back of some familygarage, and you’re going to bring it back to lifeovernight...then you’ve lost me.

I think it gives the novice car enthusiast thewrong impression of what it takes to restore a car,and, for the typical customer, it greatly underesti-mates all that’s involved to fix his/her daily driver.

Lately, I’ve been doing a lot more restorationprojects than I’ve done in the past, and I do believeit’s a result of all of these reality shows. So, for that,I’m thankful. At the same time, shame on you! Ican’t live up to the overnight results that seem sopossible on the big screen. Even though the customer doesn’t mention they’ve been watching areality show, you know what they’re thinking:“This shouldn’t take any longer than it does onTV.” IC


Photo Courtesy of Dmitrijs Dmitrijevs / Shutterstock.com

[Gonzo’sToolbox[Gonzo’sToolbox

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ABUTMENT CLIPS

Abutment clips reside on thecaliper bracket lands on most vehicles. They create a uniformsurface on which the pads makecontact. Some abutment clips include fingers that hold the padin place. These are consumablecomponents in a brake system,not only because of rust andwear, but because the anti-rattlefeatures can fatigue over time.

New abutment clips are beingused on some new vehicles thathelp to push the pads back fromthe rotor to reduce drag andallow for less wear on the padsand rotors. Failing to renew thesecomponents as part of a brake jobcould reduce the life of the brakejob and increase comebacks.

CALIPER GUIDE PINS

If the caliper is not free to move,the culprit might be bent or bind-ing mounting pins. Even if guidepins are not damaged, swollen orhardened guide seals or a lack oflubrication may cause the caliperto bind, resulting in uneven padwear. Always inspect all mount-ing surfaces and hardware for

corrosion, wear or misalignment.Replace all mounting hardwareand install a replacement caliperusing the proper caliper lubricant.

ANTI-RATTLE CLIPS

Heating and cooling cycles canweaken springs and anti-rattleclips. Weak parts can result in excessive caliper/pad movementor binding, causing noise andother related problems. This canlead to uneven and prematurepad wear, rotor wear and pulling.On some floating calipers, themost neglected piece of hardwareis the clip in the bridge.

CALIPER GUIDE PINBOOTS

Most floating brake calipers use a

Brake Hardware ItemsNot To Be Neglected To Prevent Comebacks


By Andrew Markel, Editor,Brake & Front End Magazine

BRAKE HARDWARE[TechUpdate


Andrew Markel

7

22-26 Tech Update_Brake hardware 12/9/13 11:04 AM Page 22


23 Wagner IC 12/9/13 11:03 AM Page 23

rubber or plastic insulator orshim around the mounting boltsof the caliper. This sleeve of softmaterial loses resiliency over itslifetime, and the high-tempera-ture environment of the brakesystem hastens this process. Asthese materials wear, instead ofbeing round, they become flat-tened by the torque from thebrakes into an oval shape that cancause excessive caliper move-ment. This can cause noise likerattles and thumps, even if thebrakes are not applied.

Always inspect and replaceany dust boots or grommets thatprotect the caliper bolts or slides,if necessary. If the soft parts lookOK, clean out all the old lubri-cant and replace with new lubricant.

Unlike steel, soft parts like rubber are sensitive to chemicals.Choosing the right lubricant for

these parts is critical to ensuringthe integrity of the part.

If the caliper boots fail to makea seal with the caliper bracketand bolt, water can be suckedinto the cavity as the bracketcontracts and cools.

SHIMS

Insulating the brake pad from thecaliper can be done in two ways.The first option is to go the“chemical” route with sprays orpaste coatings. This type of noisesolution involves coating the backof the pad prior to installation.The coating serves as a layer between the pad and caliper. Ifyour shop uses any of these prod-ucts, make sure to follow all man-ufacturers’ directions to find outwhere to apply it and what are thecuring times. Not following the directions can mean a comeback.

The second solution is a physi-cal shim that is a “sandwich” ofmaterial that’s staked to the backof the pad. One drawback toshims is “shim migration,” orshifting, that can negate its insu-lating properties. But automakersand aftermarket parts suppliersare developing an attachment system to alleviate this problem.



The integrity of the caliperguide pin boots is criticalto the life of the pads andensuring even wear.



25 KYB IC 12/9/13 11:02 AM Page 25

Certain automakersstamp notchesand posts thatindex and stakethe shim on thepad. Certainshim manufac-turers use pres-sure-sensitiveadhesives to secure the shimto the backingplate. But, overtime, moistureand heat candestroy the adhesive. One new design to se-cure the shim to the pads areclips that clamp onto the sides ofthe backing plate. These clips reduce the tendency of the shimto shift or fall out during the lifeof the brake linings.

CALIPER BRACKETS

Caliper bracket corrosion canoccur when the caliper is exposedto road de-icing salt. Corrosion onthe lands and slides should be removed with a wire brush orwheel. If the corrosion is not removed, it can cause the pads tobind, even if a stainless steelabutment clip is on top of it. Alsobe sure to clean the sealing sur-faces around the caliper guidepin. If this surface is not smooth,the boot can’t make a good seal.

New caliper brackets are avail-able separately and some reman-ufacturers include it as part ofthe caliper assembly. Just make

sure you return the old bracketto get full credit for the core.

PAD SEPARATORS

An increasing number of OEMsare including springs that are designed to push the pad awayfrom the rotor after the piston retracts. These clips can increasefuel economy while eliminatingbrake noise. While they can bedifficult to install, they should always be re-installed.

Some aftermarket brake compa-nies are offering a solution that canbe used on the caliper. The clips fitbetween the pads and rotor andare also designed to push the padaway from the rotor. This can keepthe brakes cooler, reduce noise andextend the life of the pad.

These clips have more“spring,” yet they prevent themovement of the caliper’s piston.They also have the potential toreduce pulsation complaints. IC




Abutment clips need tobe replaced with thebrake pads. Heat andcooling cycles canweaken springs andclips, causing noise.



27 Parts Plus IC 12/9/13 11:01 AM Page 27

With the adventof electronicengine man-

agement systems, “read-ing” spark plugs hasbecome something of alost art. In the days of me-chanical carburetors and dis-tributors, the color andtexture of the spark plug’s in-sulator could provide importantinformation about the air/fuelratio, spark timing and cylinder condition.

Back in the day, the desired insulator color wasa light tan or gray, depend-ing upon the brand of gasolineused. Over-rich fuel would pro-duce a sooty, blackened spark plugwhile over-lean would produce awhitened insulator. Over-advanced sparktiming would generally produce a glass-beading effect or salt-and-pepper textureon the insulator’s porcelain. Oil being con-sumed in small quantities through worn valveguides or piston rings would leave an encrus-tation or “scavenge” deposit on one side ofthe insulator, while excessive oil consumptionwould eventually foul the spark plug with aheavy layer of oil and black carbon.

Due to more accurate fuel and spark control,the spark plugs on modern engines generally appear in a like-new condition, even after manymiles of use. But, when diagnosing spark plugfailures, remember that modern fuel- injected

engines are running at the thresholds of deto-nation and pre-ignition. While safeguards arebuilt in, including misfire detection monitorsand cylinder detonation sensors, engines canbe severely damaged by installing spark plugswith an excessively high heat range.

To complicate matters, operating a conven-tional engine on a highly oxygenated fuel like

E85 gasoline will create an extremelylean air/fuel mixture, which can

damage the spark plug and even-tually damage the engine itself.In the following examples, I’ll getinto a little more detail on the art

and science of reading sparkplugs.

Although it’s a perfectly normal condition, this sparkplug (see Photo 1 on page 30)

is slightly darker than usual,indicating that the enginemight not have been to fulloperating temperatureand load before it was

removed.In any case, the center elec-

trode is slightly rounded by normalerosion, while the ground electrode retainsrelatively sharp edges. Carbon accumulationon the steel spark plug shell is thicker thannormal, which might indicate slightly more oilconsumption than normal. If the spark plugheat range is too hot for the application, thecenter and ground electrodes will generally beprematurely rounded and the insulator willusually have a whitened, blistered appearance.

Modern Spark Plug DiagnosticsThe ‘Art And Science’ Of Reading Plugs


By Gary Goms, Import Specialist Contributor

IGNITION[DiagnosticSolutions

28-34 Diagnostic Solns_spark plugs 12/9/13 11:00 AM Page 28

29 Autolite IC 12/9/13 10:59 AM Page 29

In contrast to the above photo,the air gap on the spark plug inPhoto 2 is worn well beyondspecification and both electrodesare rounded by erosion. For thesereasons, this spark plug requiresunusually high secondary volt-ages to ionize the air gap underfull load. Secondary ignition fail-ures, like perforated spark plugwire boots, perforated distributor rotors, carbon tracking in distrib-

utor caps and failed ignitioncoils, are often caused by exces-sively high secondary ignitionvoltages.

Although I’ve highlighted theflash-over on the spark plug in-sulator in Photo 3 on page 32with a marking pen for photo-graphic purposes, flash-over orcarbon tracking is a very com-mon occurrence with high-volt-age ignitions. Flash-over is


IGNITION

[DiagnosticSolutions


Photo 2

Photo 1



31 Innova IC 12/9/13 10:59 AM Page 31

basically caused by the ignition spark taking thepath of least resistance. Spark plug electrode wearcan increase to the point that the path of least resist-ance is down the side of the exterior insulator.

A path of least resistance can also be created by inadvertently leaving a greasy fingerprint or chem-ical residue on the spark plug insulator. Since acompanion flash-over will be found in the sparkplug boot, the wires or boot must be replaced.

To keep the spark plug insulator clean, form thehabit of inserting the spark plug into a clean rubberspark plug installer or piece of rubber fuel hose assoon you open the box. This method eliminates thepossibility of contaminating the ceramic insulator.

Under a magnifier, this spark plug appears to becoated with “glass beads” (see Photo 4), which areactually small bits of carbon blasted loose andmelted when the air/fuel mixture in the cylinderdetonates. Glazing is a similar condition thatevenly coats the insulator with a shiny, glass-likecoating, but is caused by a layer of soot meltingunder high combustion temperatures.

In contrast, the glass-bead effect is usually causedby detonation occurring when, under full engineload, the air/fuel mixture contained in a remotearea of the combustion chamber self- ignites due toan extremely rapid rise in cylinder pressures. Deto-nation turns the normally progressive cylinder“burn” rate into a catastrophic explosion. Detona-tion can be caused by excessive spark advance,high compression ratios or low-octane gasoline.Mechanical symptoms of extreme detonation include broken spark plug insulators, piston landsand piston rings.

The missing “register mark” on the tapered seatof the spark plug in Photo 5 indicates that the seatwas not contacting the cylinder head. Since the ta-pered seat conducts heat from the spark plug to thecylinder head, the spark plug over-heated and self-destructed.

In any case, over-heated spark plugs usuallycause a pre-ignition condition because they tend toact like the glow plugs found on a model airplane


[DiagnosticSolutions IGNITION

Photo 3

Photo 4

Photo 5


33 OReilly IC 12/9/13 10:58 AM Page 33

engine. Pre-ignition occurswhen the air/fuel mixtureis ignited before the timedspark arrives at the sparkplug. Due to the relativelylong exposure to a hotflame front, the center ofthe piston weakens and, inmost cases, a hole is driventhrough the center of thepiston.

One or two crackedspark plug insulators froma set of spark plugs aregenerally consistent withleaking cylinder head gaskets. Much, of course, depends on the engine design.

This spark plug in Photo 6 is from a 3.0 L V6

engine found in manyearly ’90s-vintage Toyota 4Runners. Sparkplugs like the abovewere often found at theright front cylinder andleft rear cylinder due tothe head gaskets mostoften failing at thesepoints.

Remember that elec-trode temperatures approach 1,500° F oper-ating temperature atfull-throttle. A single

drop of 200° F coolant striking this spark plug athigher engine speeds is sufficient to crack the insulator. IC


IGNITION[DiagnosticSolutions


Photo 6



35 AIA IC 12/9/13 10:58 AM Page 35

Most vehicles require some type of “stationary” relearn procedure to resetthe TPMS system. This requires a TPMS

tool to activate each of the tire pressure sensors ina specified sequence so the TPMS control modulecan relearn their new locations. On a few applica-tions, a J-41760 magnetic tool is required to“wake up” the sensors. On most other applica-tions, a factory or aftermarket TPMS tool thatbroadcasts a radio signal is needed for the sensorposition relearn procedure.

On some applications, the TPMS relearn toolcan be connected to the vehicle’s OBD II diagnos-tic connector to read and clear codes, display system data and perform sensor ID program-ming. On many Asian and European applica-tions, each individual tire pressure sensor has aunique ID code.

Vehicles that currently require this type of reprogramming include most Hyundai, Infiniti,Kia, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Suzuki

and Toyota models. If one or more sensors havebeen replaced, the new ID information has to beinput directly into the system. So if you don’thave a TPMS tool that can do this, your only alternative is to send your customer back to thenew car dealer to have the ID reprogrammingdone.

TPMS relearn procedures vary a great dealfrom one vehicle to the next, so you also need access to the TPMS service data for the vehicle, ora reference manual or chart that covers the re-learn procedures. Without this vital information,you can’t reset the system.

Essentially, most relearn procedures requirethat you to put the system into a relearn mode.On some, this may require a command from ascan tool or plug-in TPMS tool. Or, you mayhave to cycle the ignition key on and off a certainnumber of times while stepping on the brakepedal. On others, the keyless entry fob may beused to wake up the TPMS module and ready it


TPMS Relearn Procedures Require TPMS Tool To ‘Wake Up’ Sensors

By Andrew Markel, Editor, Brake & Front End

TPMS[TechUpdate

36-40 Tech Update_TPMS Relearn 12/9/13 10:57 AM Page 36


37 Northside IC 12/9/13 10:56 AM Page 37

for relearning.When the TPMS is ready, it

may signal by beeping the hornor flashing the hazard lights. TheTPMS activation tool is thenplaced near one of the tire pres-sure sensors, and a button ispressed for five or six seconds towake up the sensor. As soon asthe TPMS module recognizes thesensor and learns its position, thesystem signals again by beepingthe horn or flashing the hazardlights. You then repeat the sameprocedure for each of the remain-ing tire pressure sensors in thespecified order until the relearn

procedure is complete.Even on vehicles that have a

key fob or driver informationcenter relearn procedures, scantools or dedicated TPMS toolsthat can interface through theOBD II connection can have advantages when it becomes todifficult-to-reprogram vehicles.

With some procedures using aJ-41760 magnetic tool, you’re fly-ing blind. Problems with the keyfob, antenna and even the mod-ule or serial data bus connectioncan leave you chasing your tail.With a dedicated scan tool, it’spossible to perform a more accu-


TPMS[TechUpdate


TPMS relearn proceduresvary a great deal from one vehicle to the next, so you alsoneed access to the TPMSservice data for the vehicle, ora reference manual or chartthat covers the relearn procedures. Without this vitalinformation, you can’t resetthe system.



39 Perfect Stop IC 12/9/13 10:55 AM Page 39

rate relearn and diagnosis of the problems.

Stuck In A Loop

Toyota vehicles prior to 2009 are equippedwith a Tire Pressure Warning Reset Switch thatcan be used for initialization. When the buttonis pushed and held for more than three sec-onds, the vehicle’s receivers are open andlooking for the currently stored TPMS IDs.

What if there is a missing or broken sensor?What if there are new sensors on the vehiclethat have not yet been programmed? Thiswill cause the vehicle to become stuck in aloop, searching for TPMS IDs that are nolonger there. If you have a scan tool and try

to enter into the initialization mode, it might say,“Lost Communication With ECU,” or a similarmessage.

Bartec USA has developed the Toyota Loop Resettool to resolve this issue. When a Toyota vehicle is“stuck in the loop,” the technician will not be ableto write IDs using the OBD II connection, and thetool will “error out.” To verify it’s a result of theloop condition, the technician can select the READIDs option, which will connect and read out theIDs. If this is successful, the vehicle is “in the loop.”

How to use the BARTEC WRTRST50 toReset the Vehicle:

1. Turn the ignition to the On position.2. Insert the WRTRST50 tool into the OBD II

port on the vehicle. Once connected, press andhold the button on the WRTRST50 tool for atleast 20 seconds. Do not cycle the ignitionswitch to the Off position during this step.

3. Remove the WRTRST50 tool, and then re-sume the TPMS relearn procedure.

Note: The tool does not work with Land Cruisermodels. IC


TPMS[TechUpdate



41 AVI Test IC 12/9/13 10:54 AM Page 41

Some of the toughest challenges weface as import specialist techs arenoise complaints. And, in order to

make an accurate assessment, we take thetime to ask our customers questions like:Is the noise present when the car’s stationaryor moving? Does it change around corners orunder different load considerations? Is it a

growl, squeak, groan or rattle?While wheel-bearingnoise is also one of

the toughest prob-lems for the cus-tomer todescribe, it’s notunusual for it to

come on so

gradually that the customer may noteven notice it until you mention it afteran unrelated road test. Many times, thecustomer complaint will send you downthe wrong path if you let it. We’ve heardcomplaints from exhaust leaks, to tire bal-ance, to “it just doesn’t sound right,” thathave ended up being bad wheel bearings.

When faced with any noise com-plaint, take the time to test-drive the carwith the customer, if that’s possible.

When the vehicle is up in the air andyou confirm the wheel-bearing prob-lem, be sure to look at the whole job andinclude peripheral items in the estimate.On many models, it will be necessary todisconnect sway bar links. Does it looklike they will come apart and go backtogether? It might make more sense toreplace them. If the CV boot is torn, thisis the best time to take care of it.

IMPORTANT FIRST STEPS

During your test-drive, make note of thesound as the load changes around corners; it will give you an idea of which

By Bob Dowie, Contributing Writer

WHEEL BEARINGS[HyundaiFeature

Don’t Let Customers Lead You DownThe Wrong Diagnostic Path


42-46 Hyundai bearings_hubs 12/9/13 10:54 AM Page 42


43 Altrom IC 12/9/13 11:14 AM Page 43

bearing has failed (the noise willusually increase with load). Ifthere’s no change, it’s an indicationthere may be another problem dis-guising itself as a wheel bearing.

Anything that can feed a vibra-tion into the chassis could be theproblem, from worn enginemounts to mis-routed A/C linesor, in the case of SUVs, don’t discount the rear differential anddriveshaft as a source. If anydoubt exists, our final step of thediagnostic process includes putting the vehicle on the lift andpinpointing the problem with astethoscope.

We’ll take a look at the recom-mended procedure for bearingreplacement on the popular 2010Elantra, as outlined on theHyundai service informationwebsite, www.hmaservice.com.

Like many jobs, the equipmentresources in your shop will dic-tate the procedure. While theservice information outlines theprocedure using a shop press, thetool manufacturers offer some ex-cellent tools that claim to makethe job easier and more efficient.

In the case of the Elantra, it’s astraightforward situation to remove the bearing carrier, mak-ing working on a bench a goodoption. As always, follow goodwork habits, such as opening thebrake bleeder before pushingback the pistons to remove thecaliper, rather than pushing dirtyfluid through the ABS controller.If you’re not changing the pads,a folded-up piece of cardboardbetween the pads will hold them

in place and protect them.Be careful with the protective

boots on the ball joints and tie rodends, as well as with the threads.You also have to be careful withthe ABS sensors. If they’re stuck inthe housing, it may be a betterstrategy to leave them in place andunplug them from the harness,and be careful with them as youwork on the bench. I like to tell mytechs to think about putting thejob back together as they’re takingit apart. It’s easier to clean up thethreads on a tie rod end before it’sremoved from its taper, than it islater; a couple of extra minutesduring disassembly can pay dividends in the end.

REPLACEMENT STEPS

1. With the bearing carrier onthe bench, the first step is to remove the hub from the bearing.Whether you use a press or hubtool to accomplish this step, you’lllikely end up with the outer innerbearing race on the hub.

a. All the factory informationsuggests removing the race witha puller but, in practice, weknow how difficult it can be toget the puller ears or bearingplate in the space provided, ifany is provided at all. You canuse a sharp chisel in an attemptto wedge the race over and, morethan likely, you’ll be spendingsome time cleaning up the burrs.

b. Another method is to use anair chisel against the bearing sur-face of the race with the hub heldfirmly in a vice, and drive the






45 Moog IC 12/9/13 11:14 AM Page 45

race away from the hub, allow-ing for removal. As always, wearproper eye and hand protection,and be aware of any bystanderswhen chiseling.

2. Removing the bearing fromthe carrier is not an issue; removethe snap ring and press or with-draw the old bearing. Be careful re-moving the snap ring. It’s notusually included with the bearingand trying to force it with snapring pliers could leave you with80% of the ring in the housing andno way to compress it for removal.

If you don’t see the whole ringcome loose in the housing whenusing the pliers, take some timewith a small chisel and/or punchto loosen the ring in the groove. Itwon’t take long; certainly less timethan it takes to remove the brokenring and get one from the dealer.

3. Before you start the reassem-bly process, inspect and clean theparts. Look at the hub to be surethere isn’t a “step” on the shaftwhere the bearing rides. And, ifyou haven’t already done it,clean up the bearing bore in thehousing, paying particular atten-tion to the snap ring area whererust tends to build up.

4. When assembling, give yourtools a break and apply a lightcoat of lubricant to the OD of thebearing and the housing before in-stalling the bearing and snap ring.

5. Before installing the hub, besure to install any shields that arebehind the hub. We are warnednot to press on the outboardinner bearing (that doesn’tchange) as the race has to be sup-

ported as the hub is installed; thisis where the hub tools excel inthe adapters provided. We find iteasiest to have the hub on thepress table and press the bearingcarrier onto the hub, making surethe races are fully seated.

6. Reinstalling the knuckle willpresent no problems. Clean andlube the splines on the axle andhub, remembering that the outerCV joint spline being fully seatedis what holds the bearing together.If there is a convex washer underthe axle nut, it should be assem-bled with the convex surface out-ward (inside of washer higher).As the final step in the bearing re-placement job, torque the axle nutto the recommended level. It has awide span of 148-192 ft.-lbs., but itwill let you get a better feel thatthe bearing and hub are properlyseated, rather than running itdown with the impact gun.

You’ll find a bearing and hubassembly on the rear of theElantra. Again, there should be nosurprises on the nuts and bolts ofthis job, but be careful when esti-mating the job. Rear bearing andhub assemblies usually requireless labor than the front, wherethe hub has to be separated.

The factory info has us remov-ing the rear carrier on the Elantrato gain access to the bearing re-tainer bolts, increasing the timerequired. Again, good workhabits pay dividends. Take thetime to clean the parts to ensurethat the bearing assembly is fullyseated in the knuckle when youtorque the bolts that retain it. IC






47 U of Aftermarket IC 12/9/13 11:13 AM Page 47

LEXUSFUEL INJECTOR “TICKING” NOISE

Some customers with 2004-’05model year RX 330 vehicles maycomplain of a “ticking” noisefrom the engine compartmentwhen the engine is idling. Up-dated fuel main tube and fueltube clamps are now available.In addition to updated parts, asecond fuel pressure pulsationdamper assembly has beenadded to improve this condition.

Repair Procedure:1. Discharge fuel system

pressure. a. Disconnect the fuel pump

electrical connector via theaccess panel under the rearseat. See Fig. 1.

b. Start the engine. After theengine has stalled, turn off theignition switch.

c. Disconnect the negative (–)battery cable.

d. Reconnect the fuel pumpelectrical connector and rein-stall the rear seat.

2. Disconnect Fuel PipeSubassembly No. 1.

Note: Ensure that theremoved bolt and washers arediscarded. See Fig. 2.

a. Disconnect the fuel pipe

clamp No. 1 from the connector.b. Check for any dirt or mud

on the pipe and around the con-nector before disconnecting thefuel line. Clean if necessary.

c. Disconnect the connectorfrom the hose while pinchingportion “A” with your fingersas shown in Fig. 3.

d. If the connector and pipeare stuck, pinch the fuel pipeand push and pull the connec-tor by hand to disconnect them.Do not use any tools.

e. Drain the fuel thatremains inside Fuel PipeSubassembly No. 1.

f. Protect the disconnectedfuel lines from debris by cover-ing with a vinyl or plastic bag.

g. Remove the original pul-sation damper from the rearfuel rail. Refer back to Fig. 2.

h. Remove and discard theremaining bolt holding FuelPipe Subassembly No. 1 to thefront fuel rail.

3. Install the new Fuel PipeSubassembly No. 1 onto thevehicle.

a. Install both the originalpulsation damper and the new(additional) damper with new

fuel pipe hose gaskets asshown in Fig. 2, and torque tothe following specifications:

Torque: 33 Nm (24 ft.-lbf.) 4. Remove and replace fuel

tube clamps “B” in Fig. 4 if pro-duction clamps do not haverubber insulation like the serv-ice parts.

5. Remove and replace fueltube clamp “A” in Fig. 4 if it’snot a “rigid-style” clamp (with-out rubber insulation).

6. Clamp “C” in Fig. 4 will notneed to be replaced unless itwas damaged during the repair.

7. Check for fuel leaks. a. Reconnect the negative (–)

battery terminal. b. Connect the Lexus

Diagnostic Tester or equivalent. c. Turn the ignition switch

to the “On” position (do notstart engine).


[ImportTechTips

Fig. 1: Lexus

Fig. 2: Lexus

Fig. 3: Lexus

48,50 Tech Tips_Dec 12/9/13 11:12 AM Page 48


49 Carquest IC 12/9/13 11:12 AM Page 49

d. Turn on the tester. e. Select “1. DIAGNOSIS”

on the diagnostic tester. f. Select “2. ENHANCED

OBD II.” g. Select “3. ACTIVE TEST.” h. Select “FUEL PUMP/SPD.” i. Turn on the fuel pump

with Active Test by pressingthe right arrow on the diagnos-tic tester.

j. Check for fuel leaks. k. Check and clear any

DTCs that may have been setwhile performing the repair.

8. Once it has been confirmedthat no leaks are present, take

the vehicle on a test-drive toensure any air trapped in thepulsation dampers has beenpurged.

Courtesy of MotoLOGIC®

Repair & Diagnostics: www.moto-shop.com/motologic.

MERCEDES-BENZBATTERY DASH LIGHT ILLUMINATED

Affected Vehicles: 2003-’05 C2301.8L, 2003 CLK320 3.2L, 2006C230 2.5 and 2007 CLK550 5.5

Customer Concern: Vehicle’sbattery/alternator “visit work-shop” light on dash display is

illuminated.DTC Tech Tips:

P2062: Generator or regulator isfaulty — output is too low. Thereis no connection to the ECU.P2061: Alternator serial interface— electrical or mechanical fault.Default operation of the alterna-tor when the LIN bus fails is 14.3volts. The ECU will send a signalof circuit 61 operation over theengine can bus or via signal lineto the Signal Activation Module(SAM). Be aware some rebuilt al-ternators are not rebuilt withOEM-quality components.

Tests/Procedures: 1. Connect an alternator tester

to the vehicle and test the alter-nator’s output amps and voltage.

2. Perform a battery load test.3. Remove and inspect the

brush set for sticking brushes.Inspect wiring on the back ofthe alternator for damage.

4. Use a scan tool to performguided tests. This alternator isinternally regulated and is con-

nected by a LIN bus to thePCM so that the regulationcontrol can be intervened.

5. Verify Battery PositiveVoltage (B+) at the batteryconnection on the alterna-tor; verify that it has agood connection. Someengines will have an in-line fuse from the starter tothe alternator.

6. Test the wiring for asignal line between theengine control unit and thefront SAM, if applicable.

Courtesy of Identifix. IC


[ImportTechTips


Fig. 4: Lexus

48,50 Tech Tips_Dec 12/9/13 11:12 AM Page 50

51 AMJ IC 12/9/13 11:11 AM Page 51


[EssentialsStant announces its new2014 Caps and Thermostats catalog for passenger cars andlight trucks is now available.The catalog was introduced atthe recent AAPEX show, andincludes the latest applicationadditions and a completebuyer’s guide with photosand specifications for fuelcaps, radiator caps, oil caps,adapters and thermostats. Toreceive a catalog, contact your Stant salesrepresentative. Sections of the catalog can also bedownloaded from the Stant website atwww.stant.com/parts-catalog. Reader Service: Go to www.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

Gabriel (Ride Control, LLC) continues its aggressive newproduct introduction schedule, adding coverage for morethan 15 million light vehicles in the past 12months. The company has added more than273 new light vehicle SKUs in 2013. In-cluded in 2013 new introductions areparts with higher VIO coverage suchas new Gabriel Ultra Struts thatcover 1 million VIOs on 2009-’12Toyota Corolla and Toyota Matrix;and 800,000 VIOs on mid-2000’s Honda Pilot andAcura MDX for theGabriel ReadyMountline. Reader Service: Go to www.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

With its Diesel Particulate Filter CleanerKit, LIQUI MOLY has developed a trulynew product for shops. Hardly intro-duced in North America, it has alreadyearned an award as “2013 Best NewProduct for Import Cars or Trucks” inthe AIA Product & Marketing Awardscompetition at AAPEX. LIQUI MOLY offers the kit as an economical and effective alternative for shops. With it,the filter can be cleaned without remov-ing it from the vehicle. The entire pro-cedure requires only 30 to 60 minutes. Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

InCheck Service LLC introduces itsService Portal app for automotive repairshops. The main feature of the app is“My Garage,” which allows customersto track their vehicle’s progress while it’sbeing serviced in real time. Other fea-tures include upcoming maintenance reminders, a GPS locator and customerrewards programs. The app can be list-ed in both Apple and Google markets,and shops can customize it with logo,name and color scheme, plus various features. For more information, visitwww.incheckservice.com.Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

NAPA Heater Cores — Withthe cold season just around thecorner, it’s nice to know thatNAPA has you covered withyour heater core needs. Withmore than 440 models that arebuilt to OEM specificationswith fully brazed aluminumtanks and high-efficiency tubespacing for optimal heat trans-fer, that’s NAPA know how. Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

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Import-Car.com 53

CRP Automotive has developed a special ContiTechAccessory Drive System ServicePoster, designed to promoteawareness and educate con-sumers about the need andbenefits of maintaining a prop-erly serviced accessory drivesystem. Get the ContiTech Accessory Drive System ServicePoster free of charge from yourlocal parts supplier.Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

Innova PRO 31403 expert diag-nostic tool allows technicians toretrieve enhanced and transmis-sion diagnostic codes in all OBD IIvehicles (1996 and newer) and themost popular OBD I vehicles(1981-’95) so they can completemore repairs more efficiently. Itdisplays, records and playsback OBD II live datagraphing right on the tool.Shop management softwarereports manage vehicle diagnostics and RepairSolu-tions is available.Visit www.pro.innova.com.Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

CARDONE’s latest parts guidehighlights new products, hard-to-find parts and parts available tothe aftermarket exclusively fromCARDONE. You’ll also find linksto several new short technicalvideos and much more. Go to:www.pageturnpro.com/CARDONE-Industries/54546-2013-Fall-Service-Dealer-Brochure/index.html.Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

OTC’s latest scan tool, the Android-based Encore, features more than 30years of OEM, domestic, Asian and European vehicle information, and aboot time of less than 15 seconds. Additional benefits include an on-board battery, embedded resourcessuch as AutoDetect, Code-Assist,Symptom-Assist and Repair-Trac andaccess to the Google Play store. Encore’s 7-in. touch screen recognizescommon device commands such asswipe and pinch. Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

WORLDPAC, Inc.announces the intro-duction into the NorthAmerican aftermarketof TRW’s new all-makespremium chassis pro-gram. The ride controlprogram offers a widerange of high-quality

chassis parts that are competitive for today’s market-place. The comprehensive, premium parts program focus-es on all makes and models and consists of: control arms,tie rods, stabilizer links, ball joints, tie rod ends and assemblies, idler and pitman arms and bushings. Visitwww.worldpac.com and www.trwaftermarket.com.Reader Service: Go to www.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

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Tenneco has introducednew brake pad sets tothe Monroe Total Solution line of ultra-premium ceramicand semi-metallicbrake pads. Thenew sets now in-clude applicationsfor: Ceramic: 2012-’13 Hyundai Equus; 2012-’13 Honda Civic GX, NaturalGas, 1.8L; 2013-’14 Mazda CX-5; and 2013-’14 AcuraRDX. Semi-Metallic: 2002-’09 Mercedes-Benz C230/C240/C320/CLK 350/SLK350; 2006-’13 Isuzu Ascender;and 2006-’13 Saab 9-7X. Reader Service: Go to www.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com


[Essentials

Valeo Service USA isexpanding its after-market engine cool-ing product line byan additional 210new radiators.Valeo’s factory instal-lation-quality radia-

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Mitchell 1 releasedits 2014 Emis-sion ControlApplicationGuide(ECAT14) fordomestic andimport cars, lighttrucks, vans (diesel engines)and Class ‘A’ motor homes with gasolineengines, model years 1966-2014. Thenew guide provides vehicle-specificemission system information for repairshops that perform smog inspections. Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

NUCAP has developed theFineblankPlus stamp-ing process for brake pad backingplates, which produces brake padbacking plates that excel in the twomost critical plate features that deter-mine the backing plates’ performance:flatness and abutment tolerance. Bothare critical factors in controlling brakenoise and performance. FineblankPlussets new standards for brake pad back-ing plate flatness and, when combinedwith the NUCAP NRS and Step Cham-fer technologies, results in a brake padthat stands up to the demands of per-forming in one of the vehicle’s harshestenvironments. Reader Service: Go towww.icRAPIDRESPONSE.com

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WANT DETAILS ON THE PRODUCTS & SERVICES YOU SEE IN

AIA, Auto International Association . . . . . . .35Airtex Corporation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .19, 30APA Management Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21Auto Value/Bumper to Bumper . . . . . . .Cover 4Autolite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29Bartec USA, LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40BMW . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7Brake Parts, Inc. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3, 46CARQUEST Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49Federated Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11Idemitsu Lubricants America Corp. . . . . . . .10Innova Electronics Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31KYB Americas Corp. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25MAHLE Clevite . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Moog Steering & Suspension . . . . . . . . . . . .45

NAPA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cover Call Out, 5, 43NGK Spark Plugs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14, 15Northside Imports Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37Nucap Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26, 50O’Reilly Auto Parts . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33Parts Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .27Perfect Stop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .38, 39Schaeffler Group USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8, 9Toyota . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cover 2, 1University Of The Aftermarket Foundation . . .47Wagner Brakes/Federal-Mogul . . . . .22, 23, 44WAIglobal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34WIX Filters . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12, 13WORLDPAC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .Cover 3

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55 rapid response IC_Dec_Layout 1 12/9/13 11:10 AM Page 55

DI R E C T C L A S S I F I E D S


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Track Talk

Shock technology is a veryspecial tool in a NASCARteam’s tuning arsenal.

NASCAR competitors sim-ply can’t risk a substandardshock setup – it literally canbe the difference of a 30thplace finish or tasting thechampagne in Victory Lane.

Most every team nowemploys at least one shockspecialist who is chargedwith finding the right combi-nation that will allow theracecar to get as low to theground as possible withoutdragging the nose of the

Gen-6.Hendrick Motorsport’s

crew chief Alan Gustafsonrelies on veteran shock spe-cialist Chris Golder to makesure Jeff Gordon’s No. 24Axalta Racing Chevrolet SShas precise handling andcomfort from Martinsville toTexas, and everywhere inbetween on the circuit.

Golder, 33, grew up in

Alpharetta, GA,greasing his passion forrestoring cars alongside hisdad who owned an automo-tive repair shop.“I have alwayshad an interest in cars,” saidGolder. “I grew up with threeyounger sisters and no broth-ers, so cars were kind of a wayfor me and my dad to spendtime together and to bond.”

After graduating fromGeorgia Tech in 2004 with adegree in mechanical engi-neering, Golder began hisNASCAR career at HendrickMotorsports. Today, as theshock specialist on the No.24, he works with Gustafsonto determine the best setuppackages.

“My main responsibility isthe springs and the shocks,”explained Golder. “Springsare used to control theheight of the racecar. At thebigger, faster tracks both thefront and rear attitude is veryimportant, so we work a lotwith springs and spring rub-bers, along with the shocksand bump stops.”

Daily, Golder spendsmuch of his time configur-ing shock-spring combina-tions for each racetrack toensure Gordon has the bestpossible control over the car.

“I run simulations to comeup with good packages,”explained Golder. “I work upoptions around those pack-ages to try and practice to getJeff’s feedback.”

NASCAR does not allowteams to run data during therace weekend, only duringtest sessions. So, simulationhas to be spot on.

“Without data, sometimes

we don’t know exactly what’sgoing on out there on thetrack,” said Golder. “We haveto be able to move quicklyand make changes if neededsince we get only about threehours of practice on a weekend.”

On race weekends, you canfind Golder working insidethe No. 24 transporter. Hisworkstation houses a shockdyno that moves at differentdisplacements, enabling theteam to measure differentdrive and track profiles.

“The front shocks on race-cars are what we like to call‘aero inhibitors,’” explainedGolder. “On the frontshocks, we have bump stopsand we fine-tune them toaffect the attitude of the racecar. There’s a great comprisebetween running a softerbump stop, which is going tofeel better to the driver, ver-sus a stiff stop that’s going tokeep the car sealed down tothe racetrack and helpimprove the aerodynamics.”

That delicate balance hasbecome one of the criticalpoints on a racecar.

No track is smooth as silk

— Golder says short tracksand rougher tracks are thetoughest on shocks. How thecar handles depends onwhich shocks are used andhow resistant they are tomotion. To control the move-ment, teams can tweak thepiston, shims and oil inside ashock for each specific track.

To keep the oil from foam-ing and losing its ability tocompress and rebound, ashock is pressurized withnitrogen. NASCAR rear shockscan have no less than 25pounds of pressure per squareinch (psi) and no more than75 pounds of pressure psi.

Golder, who maintainsapproximately 130 shocksduring the season, says hedoes almost 200 re-valve jobsper year and installs between30 to 40% of the shocks onthe racecar himself.

“The easiest tracks onshocks are the superspeed-ways where you’re not worry-ing about mechanical grip,”said Golder. “The most tech-nical tracks are the shorttracks and rougher racetrackslike in Las Vegas andAtlanta.”

Follow NASCAR Performance on Twitter and Facebookwww.twitter.com/NASCARauto

www.facebook.com/NASCARPerformance

Shock Therapy: NASCAR competitors can’t risk a substandard shock setup— it can be the difference between a 30th place finish or Victory Lane.

The Bump Stops Here

Shock specialist Chris Golder is avital member of Jeff Gordon’s on-track success

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