April 11, 2012
Drivetrain and Noises, noises
No Comments
© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Master auto technician answers questions on how to find the cause of excessive wind noise and the use of the Steelman Chassis Ears. Electronic specialty tools like the wired and wireless versions are designed primarily to find sources of chassis noises.
Read the rest…
August 13, 2011
Drivetrain and Noises
2 Comments
The image above is what a typical torn CV boot looks like – More articles at DenLorsTools.com
© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Tips from an ASE Master Auto technician on removing C.V. (Constant Velocity) axles. Some CV 1/2 shafts are very hard to remove when the wrong procedures are used. Specialty tools are needed in some cases to remove the 1/2 shaft and prevent damage to the trans-axle housing. Advice on diagnosing noises, replacing just the CV boot, the CV joint or entire CV 1/2 shaft.
Read the rest…
January 1, 2011
Alternator, DIY, Dodge Caravan, Drivetrain and Noises
57 Comments
© DenLorsTools.com Summary: DenLors car Auto repair article covering a common problem with Dodge Caliber and Caravan alternators causing a loud noise – may sound similar to a diesel engine. A video with sound is in this article demonstrating the noise that could be heard. Premature alternator failure or de-coupler clutch pulley gone bad? Read on to learn about the possibility of a less expensive solution when the knocking noise is coming from the alternator area.
Read the rest…
July 31, 2010
Drivetrain and Noises, Honda, How To Auto Repair
45 Comments
© DenLorsTools.com Summary: This auto repair blog covers 1996-2001 first generation Honda CR V’s which are making unwanted noises. Suggestions on what to look for when experiencing noises like thumping, grinding, rattling, clanking etc. Diagnosing the source of unusual noises coming from any vehicle can be very frustrating – knowing some of the common issues can help to make short work of troubleshooting the problem.
Read the rest…
September 5, 2009
Consumer, Drivetrain and Noises, Nissan, Service Writer, Tech/Mechanic
113 Comments
© DenLorsTools.com Summary: In this article we point out a common problem with Nissan automobiles equipped with the 3.5 Liter engine that causes engine tapping noises typically on cold start up. The engine has variable timing cam sprockets, three timing chains, three tensioners and three guides. Vehicles subject to similar issues may include Nissan Altima, Maxima, Murano, 350Z, Infiniti G35, G37, EX, FX, M series and QX4.
Read the rest…
July 25, 2009
DIY, Drivetrain and Noises, How To Auto Repair
406 Comments
This Kia Rio had a severe engine vibration, see the picture below for the cause.
© DenLorsTools.com Summary: Suggestions of what to check when a car has excessive drivetrain vibrations. There are several things that can cause an engine to shake. If there is an engine vibration problem, typically it gets worse with the air conditioning turned on since there is more of a load on the engine. In this auto repair article, we will cover several things that can be looked at to help diagnose the problem.
Misfires can definitely cause an engine to shake, usually in most late model cars a misfire will almost always be accompanied by a CEL (Check Engine Light) and misfire code. Many times if the engine also stalls, there could be excess carbon build up on the throttle plates or IAC (idle air control motor). Cleaning the throttle body and IAC is a common practice when trying to eliminate possible causes of engines vibrating.
Read the rest…
February 14, 2009
Drivetrain and Noises, How To Auto Repair, Jeep
3 Comments
Image courtesy of Jeep-Offroad
Jeep Cherokee and Grand Cherokee differentials seem to have the highest failure rate compared to other makes and models. I’ve found this to be true in my years working as a master auto technician. Many technicians shy away from rebuilding rear ends even though they are quite accomplished otherwise. The actual R&R of the parts isn’t really that hard…it’s setting the rear end up so that there is no noises when your done.
Read the rest…