Summary: © DenLorsTools.com Power steering noises can be caused by several reasons. The most common reason for a power steering pump whining is because of low PS fluid level. This auto repair blog post covers 2001 and newer Chrysler Town and Country and Dodge Caravans with 3.3 and 3.8 liter engines. Common causes of power steering moans and groans that apply to most vehicles are revealed. We also point out a VERY common cause of whining power steering pumps which is unique to this particular mini-van.

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© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Applies to 2002 to 2009 second generation Trailblazers and Envoys with 4.2 Liter in-line 6 cylinders. This auto repair article is for GMC Envoys or Chevrolet Trailblazers when a P1281 fault code is scanned using a code reader or scan tool. The P1281 fault code is related to the engine not reaching operating temperature within the set parameter. More explanation of what the code means and suggestions on how to complete the repair much easier. Using any code reader or scan tool with OBD II capability is all that is needed to read and erase the fault code.

The thermostat is NOT just to keep the engine cool, it also helps the engine heat up quickly to normal operating temperature within a certain time-frame. For the catalytic converter to operate at it’s highest efficiency the computer needs to be in closed loop. Closed loop means that the computer is in more control of fuel mixtures based on inputs from several sensors. Until the engine is running at the normal operating temperature, the computer usually controls the fuel mix less efficiently. That’s why it’s important for the thermostat to stay closed until the engine warms up quickly. If it stays open or opens up too quickly the motor will not reach the desired temp as quickly as it should. Most of the time when this code is retrieved, the t-stat is not working properly.

1/4″ swivel socket and extension pictured above used to start the bolts.

The thermostat is located on the left side of the engine. After removing the driver’s front wheel the t-stat housing can be seen over the frame. A long 1/4″ extension and 10mm swivel socket makes accessing the bolts holding the housing much easier. Usually this thermostat comes with a new housing as well. The tricky part is starting the bolts back in when installing the new t-stat. It’s easy to drop the bolts before actually getting them started. An old trick for holding bolts in place in hard to get to areas is to use small orings to act as a retainer. The o-rings are perfect for preventing the bolts from falling and are small enough to be collapsed when the bolts are tightened as to not cause any problems with the housing seating properly.

To help hold the bolts in place small o-rings are used to prevent them from falling.

Once the thermostat is replaced and the coolant is refilled, the fault code can be cleared. Usually it’s best to run the heater when topping off the coolant to help remove any air pockets that may be in the cooling system. When the heat is blowing hot and the temperature is in the normal range the coolant level will be full. Hopefully this repair article has helped explain and answer questions about the P1281 fault code scanned with a code reader or scan tool. Be sure to check out the links below for even more information and specialty tools.

Related Car Repair Blogs and Auto Tools

Jeep Grand Cherokee Scanned P1281 Fault Code / DenLors Auto Blog 

OBD II Scan Tools and Code Readers – DenLors Tools

Lisle Coolant Funnel to Remove Trapped Air in Cooling System

P0017 Chevy Trailblazer, Envoy, GMC Canyon, Colorado – Fault Codes

Chevy Auto Repair Articles – Automotive Repair Blogs for Chevrolet

Car Mechanics Specialty Tools – Automotive Tools and Shop Supplies

 Access for the fan control module can be gained from behind the headlight.

© DenLorsTools.com Summary: This auto repair blog covers overheating problems with Jeep Grand Cherokees ranging from 1999 to 2004. The cooling fan module location is shown. The cooling fan module is a common problem that can cause the radiator cooling fan not to work. Time saving suggestion to allow much easier access to the cooling fan control module for replacement. Questions and answers for this and other overheating issues covered in comment section.

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Still image above – see bottom of the article for our DIY video.

© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Honda crank pulley tool info. Questions and answers in comment section. In 2005 the first car repair article written for DenLors Tools was on Honda and Acura crankshaft bolt removal. Before that, many years ago, in the early nineties prior to selling automotive tools for a living, I worked at a car repair shop as a tech in Lakeland Florida and had a timing belt job. To my surprise the Honda had a very tight crank bolt to loosen. In fact it was so difficult to loosen (without the correct tool) that I was unable to remove it to replace the timing belt. Hating to lose a gravy job and being on flat rate… I tried everything. The problem was that the whole engine turns when trying to loosen the bolt. Read the rest…

The VW in the image above was getting a new waterpump and timing belt.

© DenLorsTools.com Summary: The telltale battery light staying on means an alternator/generator replacement is needed in most cases. 2000 to 2005 1.8 Liter 5V Turbo engines in VW Passats and Audi A4’s have alternators that look easy to change, however access to the bottom alternator bolt can prove to be very difficult. The book labor time lists 2.8 hours to change this alternator! The most time consuming part of the job has to do with the front bumper removal to get to the fan so the lower alternator bolt can then be removed. The lower alt. bolt interferes with the fan if it is left in place preventing bolt removal. This car repair article is on how to change the alternator easily. DIYers along with some auto technicians that haven’t figured out the short cut (revealed in this repair article) will now be able to reduce the actual labor time by a couple of hours.

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© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Recent comments from a do it yourself-er that has used a previous article on Jeep Grand Cherokee dash removal. Jim was nice enough to let us know how he has used our information not just once, but on two occasions for different problems. The ability to tackle dash removal has saved him a ton of money. I think we saved Jim a lot of time – now he’s returned the favor by basically writing this blog! Thanks Jim.

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© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Jeep Grand Cherokee’s with dual zone have a common problem of blend doors breaking at the point of actuator engagement. Vehicles affected are 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003 and 2004 Jeep Grand Cherokees. The automatic temperature control can be affected on the driver or passenger side, making the temp control inoperable. Until recently the refrigerant had to be discharged and the dash removed for repair. Now with a WJ blend door repair kit # K6855685AB, from Mopar/Chrysler/Fiat the repair can be done in the vehicle by even modestly experienced individuals. The kit includes an aluminum door door, a plastic door, a spindle, grease and patch material for resealing the evaporator case after repair. PDF Jeep instructions provided in this car repair article.

NOTE – Since this article was written Jeep has discontinued this repair. We used to sell an alternative however, we have discontinued that item also. See HeaterTreater.net for a possible solution. 

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Video I made a while back showing the specialty tool in use.

© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Automotive repair blog article on changing intake gaskets on GM 3.1 and 3.4 v-6 engines. Often the problem of water in the oil is mis-diagnosed as blown head gaskets. There are many time saving tips that can be used when changing the gaskets in this and Denlor’s original tech article linked within. The image above is click-able, it opens a new window for Youtube – just watch the volume! The tool is a Lisle 48500, we’ve been selling it for several years now.

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