TechConnect Online News Blog

Fig. 1

Ever since it was discovered during WWI that adding tetraethyl lead to gasoline significantly increased its octane rating (typical mid-1920s gasolines had a 40-60 octane rating), more and more additives have been added to gasoline during the refining process to improve the fuel's performance, emissions and economy. (Fig. 1)

Common additives in gasoline today include: detergents, corrosion inhibitors, anti-icers, demulsifiers (to break up water particles), deposit controls (to prevent carbon buildup), antioxidants (to prevent gum formation) and metal deactivators (to inhibit oxidation and gum formation catalyzed by certain metals, especially copper).

Fuel changes to meet tighter emission standards have lead to the use of oxygenated fuels such as ethanol, methanol, ETBE and MTBE. In the past, alcohols and ethers were used primarily as octane enhancers. Now, the focus is on emissions reduction. Gasoline additives are regulated to ensure that the finished fuel will not contribute to fuel system failure. Additive breakdown or excessive amounts of additives in gasoline can result in fuel system contamination and lead to pump failure. In fact, fuel contamination is the main cause of electric fuel pump failure by clogging the pickup strainer or inlet filter as well as causing internal pump damage.

Diagnosis

ACDelco's updated air conditioning system seminar, Emerging A/C Technology and Service (S-AC07-03.01SEM), provides an overview of the latest issues affecting current and future A/C system service.

A/C systems have changed dramatically over the past years, becoming smaller, increasingly efficient and more complex. Refrigerant capacity, for example, has dropped from nearly four pounds of refrigerant in older R-12 systems to 16 ounces or less on newer R-134a systems. A very small leak can significantly reduce performance or cause noise in a modern A/C system.

In the seminar, technicians will learn about:

•       Various A/C systems and their operation and service

•       Scan tools, Service Programming and CAN data and how they involve A/C diagnostics and repair

•       Various service items such as oil balancing, flushing, filters, line repair, dyes and leak detection

•       Various sealants and their affect on the A/C system

•       New SAE regulations for leak detection, refrigerant purity and R/R/R machines

•       Clutchless and high voltage hybrid compressors

•       Possible future refrigerants and their systems, such as R-152a, R744 (CO2) and HFO-1234YF

Virtual Networks

Vehicle networks and programming have grown to control a variety of A/C system operation, taking information sharing of the climate control system as well as other vehicle systems to a higher level of communication. In the seminar, the use of a virtual network in modern vehicle communication systems is covered.

A virtual network is supported by virtual devices, which represents a collection of signals owned by a single physical device (control module). A virtual network is triggered by activated switches, such as an A/C request or a change in a sensor. The benefit of a virtual network is a reduction in power consumption because control modules are only powered when a provided functionality is required. (Fig. 3)

Fig. 3

New Regulations

The seminar also covers a number of emerging topics that are making news in the A/C industry. This includes the following new SAE regulations:

•       J2788 Standards for Recovery/Recycle/Recharge machines

•       J2810 Standards for recovery only machines

•       J2670 A/C Additives

•       J2791 Enhanced Leak Detection

•       J2776 Purity Standards for R134a

A/C refrigerants discussed in the seminar include several new refrigerants that are potential replacements for R-134a. R-134a has a Global Warming Potential (GWP) of 1410. Worldwide efforts to reduce greenhouse gases have led to an agreement that any replacement refrigerant must have a GWP of 150 or less. Currently, the EPA does not identify any replacement refrigerant for R-134a systems and has not evaluated any alternative refrigerants.

Learn More

For more information about ACDelco training courses on A/C systems and other systems and components available at training centers and online, go to www.acdelcotechconnect.com and click on the Training tab.

Contact your local ACDelco distributor to learn when the Emerging A/C Technology and Service seminar and other seminars will be held in your area.

- Thanks to Mike Militello

ACDelco studies have shown replacement air conditioning compressors fail four times more often than original compressors because of a failure to properly restore the system. ACDelco has disassembled, reviewed, and analyzed hundreds of air conditioning compressors returned under warranty. The failure of these compressors can be grouped into three major categories:

•       Lubrication

•       Refrigerant

•       Debris

 

When repairing A/C conditions, performing the necessary service to protect replaced parts is important to avoid replacement failures and comebacks. Prior to and after compressor failure, debris particles from a failure flow throughout the refrigerant system in both directions. These particles imbed themselves in various internal components and cannot be completely flushed from the system. (Fig. 4)

 

Fig. 4

The most cost-effective service method for protecting the compressor and other new components is to install a suction screen ahead of the compressor and an in-line filter ahead of the control valves. These protection devices have virtually no effect on overall A/C system performance but they greatly improve the protection of a compressor from any residual failure debris.

A quick visual inspection may prevent needless compressor replacement caused by other conditions, such as a low charge, Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTC), electrical connections, or loose fasteners. Check for proper charge levels and purity as well as confirmation of clutch engagement. Compressors with a low charge make noise. A proper charge may silence a noisy compressor.

Job Aids Online

For more information about A/C compressor installation, a printable .pdf file is available on TechConnect Magazine Online. The A/C compressor job aid and several other job aids are available under the Troubleshooting PDF Job Aids link in the Resources section on the right side of the page.

The job aid includes a number of tips to follow when installing an A/C compressor. The job aid also provides a list of related components that should be inspected when troubleshooting the A/C system. The operation of many of these components will affect the performance of the compressor. Finally, there are several tips to verify proper installation and operation to help ensure customer satisfaction.

 

More than 80 percent of the vehicles that have been inspected at community car care events across the country over the past year were in need of service or parts, reports the Car Care Council. This reinforces the need for consumer education about the benefits of regular vehicle care and maintenance, especially as the number of years owners keep their vehicles continues to increase.

Top problem areas typically found include the need for oil changes, windshield wipers, air filters, and improperly inflated or worn tires.

Forgotten Wipers

Wipers appear to be one of those items that drivers forget about when they are not in use. However, once the rain starts to fall, the need to replace worn wipers becomes evident rather quickly, and good visibility has a major impact on driver safety.

The replacement interval of wipers is based on several factors, including operating conditions (winter conditions are tough on wiper blades, yet wiper blades can deteriorate faster and need more frequent replacement in sun-soaked desert states), frequency of use, and the material and type of wipers.

Wiper blades should be inspected every six months. Streaking or chattering blades as well as worn or split rubber are signs that it's time to replace the wiper blades.

ACDelco wiper products feature:

·         Beam wiper blades -- the latest in wiper technology

·         Performance blades that feature pre-installed adapters that match a vehicle's arm type for quick installation

·         Aerodynamic designs that help prevent windlift

·         Broad range of sizes and types of blades, including low profile and hard-to-find applications

·         Materials and finishes (polymer or carbon steel) that are designed to resist rusting, chipping and bending

·         Coatings on rubber parts that help reduce streaking, friction and noise

·         Virtually all-makes and all-models coverage

Maintenance Recommendations

·         Change the oil and filter regularly according to the owner's manual maintenance schedule.

·         Inspect the tires for proper wear and check the tire pressure at least monthly, including the spare.

·         Have the alignment checked at least annually. Potholes and other road conditions can take their toll on a vehicle's steering and suspension.

·         Check the hoses and belts -- which are critical to the proper functioning of the electrical system, air conditioning, power steering and the cooling system -- for cracks, brittleness or other signs of excessive wear.

·         Inspect the windshield wipers and lights on the vehicle.

- Thanks to Chris Vermette

A new battery does not develop its full performance capabilities until it has been through several discharge/charge cycles. This means a new battery may not be capable of producing its optimum current and cold cranking amps (CCA).

If a new battery that has not gone through a cycling period is tested using a conductance-type battery tester, the resulting CCA may be lower than indicated on the battery's rating label. This could lead to condemning an otherwise good battery.

Conductance is a measurement of a battery's current producing capability. Conductance testers (Fig. 5) can accurately identify batteries that have reduced performance after being in service, but should never be used to determine the state of health, state of charge or CCA rating of a new, never installed battery. Also, conductance testing of new batteries should never be used to determine the warrantable condition.

Fig. 5

To check the condition of a battery prior to installation to be sure there is adequate voltage to start the vehicle, measure open circuit voltage (OCV) using a digital voltmeter (DVOM). An OCV of 12.24V is adequate to provide the power requirements for starting most vehicles under most conditions. The battery should be in service for several days before performing a conductance test.

Battery Testing Procedures

Follow these tips when using a conductance tester to ensure accurate test results. Using non-approved adapters or improper test procedures can lead to failing test results for batteries that are not defective.

Be sure the battery in the tester is good or you may get inaccurate results. To check the conductance tester, be sure OCV on the tester matches the OCV measured with a known-good DVOM (may vary slightly due to different internal resistance).

Be sure to get good connections between the battery terminals and the tester clamps. Each tester clamp has two jaws. Each jaw is wired to a different part of the tester, and it is essential that both jaws make good contact.

If the connections to the battery terminals in the vehicle are in doubt or the tester displays REPLACE BATTERY or BAD CELL - REPLACE, disconnect the battery being tested from the vehicle. Retest the battery with both of the vehicle's battery cables disconnected from the battery.

When using an adapter, be sure the adapter makes good contact with the lead terminal surface on the battery.

Never use steel bolts, nuts, washers, etc., when testing a side terminal battery. Only use the adaptors included with the conductance tester. The coating on other adapters may affect the tester's accuracy.

Battery Warranty

ACDelco batteries are covered by a comprehensive warranty program. Any independent service center can accept an ACDelco battery that is under warranty and not functioning properly from a customer for return, even if the battery was purchased from another retailer or service center. ACDelco will warrant the battery, and in the process, the service center may earn some additional service business and customer loyalty.

- Thanks to Mike DeSander and Brad Busboom

Why use two sources to check mechanical labor times and parts pricing and availability? ACDelco's WISE Internet Parts (WIP) now offers users the ability to do both in one application, at no additional charge.

WIP, ACDelco's Web-based parts catalog application, provides fast parts inventory access and comprehensive parts ordering. ACDelco WIP subscribers can check inventory and order parts online anytime from WISE-enabled ACDelco Warehouse Distributors. Now, labor times also are only one click away. Using the labor time feature will help subscribing service centers to quickly create parts and labor estimates. This new feature does not apply to TurboPart WIP users.

To display labor times, users will identify and search for parts as they have in WIP previously. Build the vehicle for which the parts are needed by selecting the year, make, model and engine, or enter the VIN. Next, select the parts group and subgroup.

Once users have identified the vehicle and parts they are interested in, click on the Display Parts & Labor button or the Display Labor Only button (Fig. 6). Labor times for the selected parts will be displayed below the parts information. (Fig. 7)

Fig. 6

Fig. 7

The labor multiplier value used to calculate the labor times also can be changed. Click the Edit Labor Multiplier button to increase or decrease the multiplier.

The addition of listing labor times in WIP is just one of many benefits. WIP also provides:

·         The ability to place parts orders anytime 24/7 with local warehouse distributors

·         A direct link to local warehouse distributors using your PC and Internet connection, no additional hardware or software is required

·         Access to the inventory of local warehouse distributors to check parts pricing and availability

To learn more about WIP, visit www.acdelcotechconnect.com, call 1-800-825-5886, prompt #3, or contact your local ACDelco representative.

- Thanks to Bob Stewart

The wiring sockets and pigtails search tool on www.acdelcotechconnect.com has been expanded.

This on-line reference source offers a menu-driven search feature that can narrow the search according to brand, number of cavities and gender. With photos of each pigtail and wiring socket, you also can visually match the part you are replacing with the new part number. All of which makes it easier to identify wiring sockets and pigtails for GM and non-GM vehicles.

To access the wiring sockets and pigtails search tool, go to www.acdelcotechconnect.com and click on the Automotive Systems tab and the Product Information link.

- Thanks to Bob Stewart

There are several money-saving regional consumer incentives available right now on most 2009 GM cars and trucks. TSS service center owners and employees who add those to the thousands in savings available through the GM New Vehicle Supplier Discount will find that the amount of money off really adds up.

The GM supplier discount is available on most new 2009 GM vehicles at participating GM dealerships. Vehicles may be taken from dealer stock or ordered. (Eligibility may change at any time without notice and some models may have limited availability). All that's needed to get your supplier discount savings is a GM New Vehicle Supplier Discount authorization number.

To get your authorization number, follow these steps:

·         Go to www.acdelcotechconnect.com

·         Click on the Total Service Support tab, and then the ACDelco TSS GM Vehicle Supplier Discount button on the right side of the page. (You will have to log in by entering your 6-digit TSS code [it begins with a 6] and your zip code.)

·         On the GM Vehicle Supplier Discount page, scroll down to the bottom of the page and click on the link www.gmsupplierdiscount.com to access the GM supplier discount website. Always access the GM supplier discount website through www.acdelcotechconnect.com. This loads the website with the correct company code for TSS service centers.

·         If you have used this website before, input your user name and password that you have used in the past. If you do not have a user name and password, click on New to Supplier Discount to register on the site.

·         Click "yes" when you are asked, "Are you a TSS/ACDelco account?" This question will only appear if you have logged in using a previous user name and password.

·         If you are asked if you would like to use this new account number because it has changed, always respond "yes." This is part of a recent change to improve the process.

·         Begin by selecting GM Supplier Discount on the top left side of the page. Next, click on Obtain Authorization to generate your GM Discount Certificate. You will be asked for your birth date, zip code, and other vehicle purchase information. Click on Step 2 and Step 3 after verifying the information.

·         You can print out the certificate number, write it down, or email it to a recipient. It's that easy!

For additional information about the GM supplier discount or if you have questions about the authorization number process, call 1-800-960-3375. When calling, please state that your company name is TSS/ACDelco, not your individual service center name.

- Thanks to Staci Shelton

The TSS Q&A provides answers to common questions received by the ACDelco Customer Support Center.

Q:  How does the web-based ACDelco TSS Customer Satisfaction Index (CSI) Program track customer satisfaction?

A:  The new TSS CSI Program provides for immediate feedback from service customers. The system features hang tags with the service center's ACDelco TSS account number that are given to customers after service has been performed (Fig. 8). Customers can go online to http://survey.acdelcocrs.com, enter the TSS account number on the tag, and provide their comments about their service experience.

Fig. 8

Q:  How is the customer information delivered to service centers?

A:  The data is compiled for the service center. All the service center has to do is hang the tag on a customer's rearview mirror when service is finished. Once a customer answers the online survey, a link to where the survey results can be accessed is sent via e-mail to the service center. The service satisfaction comments and CSI scores are available immediately, providing instant feedback.

For more information about the TSS CSI Program, go to www.acdelcotechconnect.com, select the Total Service Support tab, and then click on the Marketplace link. After logging in with your six digit TSS account number and zip code, scroll down and select the Customer Satisfaction Index Program. You also can call 1-800-825-5886, prompt 4, for more program details.

If you have any questions about the TSS program or any current ACDelco activities, contact the Customer Support Center at 1-800-825-5886, prompt 0.

The following technical tips provide repair information about specific conditions on a variety of vehicles. If you have a tough or unusual service repair, the TSS Technical Assistance Hot Line can help. Call 1-800-825-5886, prompt #2, to speak with a technical expert with the latest OEM information.

Intermittent Vehicle No Crank/Dead Battery

2004 Buick Rainier; 2000-2004 Cadillac Escalade, 2002-2004 Cadillac Escalade EXT, 2003-2004 Cadillac Escalade ESV; 1998-2004 Chevrolet Blazer and S-10 Pickup, 1999-2004 Chevrolet Silverado, 2000-2004 Chevrolet Suburban and Tahoe, 2002-2004 Chevrolet Avalanche, 2002-2004 Chevrolet TrailBlazer and TrailBlazer EXT, 2003-2004 Chevrolet Express; 1998-2004 GMC Jimmy and Sonoma, 1999-2004 GMC Sierra, 2000-2004 GMC Yukon and Yukon XL, 2002-2004 GMC Envoy and Envoy XL, 2003-2004 GMC Savana, 2004 GMC Envoy XUV; 1998-2004 Oldsmobile Bravada; 2003-2004 HUMMER H2

When diagnosing an intermittent vehicle no crank or dead battery condition, remove and reinstall the ignition switch following the appropriate procedure in the Service Information. The ignition switch may have been misindexed in the steering column during a previous replacement.

If the ignition switch is misindexed in one direction, the ignition switch circuits will not be completely open when the ignition switch is in the Off position with the key removed. This may result in the lights remaining on and will drain the battery.

If the ignition switch is misindexed in the opposite direction, the ignition circuits will open correctly, but the ignition switch may not close the crank circuit properly when the ignition key is turned to the crank position. This will result in a no crank condition.

Refer to GM bulletin 04-06-03-002 for more information.

Low Voltage Display

1998-2008 GM Passenger Cars and Light Duty Trucks, including Saturn; 2003-2008 HUMMER H2, H3; 2005-2008 Saab 9-7X

These vehicles may have a low voltage display (Fig. 9), lights that dim at stop lights, slow cranking, no start, low generator output at idle or dim lights at idle when electrical loads are heavy at idle or under slow driving or infrequent usage conditions. These characteristics may be more noticeable with customer-added electrical accessories or with a discharged battery.

Fig. 9

These are normal operating characteristics of a vehicle electrical system unless a proven fault has been diagnosed.

Non-usage of the vehicle for ex tended periods of time and extended periods of engine idling with high electrical loads are two factors that may affect generator and battery performance. For complete diagnosis of the battery and/or generator, refer to the appropriate Service Information.

Refer to GM bulletin 05-06-03-002B for more information.

Starter Motor Continues to Run or Crank

1995 Buick Riveria; 1995 Cadillac Eldorado, Eldorado Touring Coupe, Seville; 1995 Chevrolet Camaro; 1995 Oldsmobile Aurora; 1995 Pontiac Firebird - with 3800, 4.0L, 4.6L, 5.7L engines (RPOs L47, L36, LT1, LD8, L67, L37); 1994-95 Chevrolet and GMC Truck C/K, G, P models - with 5.7L, 7.4L engines (RPOs L05, L19)

The starter motor may continue to run or crank after the vehicle is started or turned off. The starter motor solenoid will not disengage because of a ground to the #6 circuit. With the #6 circuit ground to a resistive ground, current is fed back through the windings to the ground, holding in the plunger and causing the starter to continue to run.

Disconnect the #6 circuit lead at the starter "S" terminal. With the ignition Off or in Run, use an Ohm meter to check for any electrical path between the ring terminal on the #6 circuit lead and ground.

If found, eliminate the grounding condition. Reroute any wires as necessary.

Alternator Bolt Tightening

2001-2004 Honda Civic

Conditions such as an engine crank/no start, MIL on, immobilizer blinking, or no communication with the ECM/PCM may be caused by loose alternator bolts. If these bolts are loose for any reason, the alternator can overcharge and damage the ECM/PCM.

Beginning in 2001, the Civic has a different style alternator bracket that makes the bolt tightening sequence and bolt torque critical. Improper tightening will cause noise.

Refer to the appropriate Service Information for the proper bolt tightening sequence and bolt torque specifications. A belt tension gauge special tool also is required.

After tightening the alternator bolts, restart the engine. If it won't start, check the ECM/PCM connector for battery voltage and ground. If there is battery voltage and ground at the connector, replace the ECM/PCM.

Current Instructor-Led Training

ACDelco's Instructor-Led Training (ILT) courses provide hands-on instruction on the latest automotive systems. The following ILT courses are currently being held at training center locations around the country.

A few American classics are some of the rides TechConnect readers have submitted for the Readers' Rides gallery on TechConnect Magazine Online.

To submit photos of your car or truck (include your name, TSS center, location and a few technical details about your vehicle):

1.    Click on the Contact Us link

2.    Send an email with photos attached to technical editor Mark Spencer

Here's the story behind the cars of several fellow TSS shop owners and technicians. For more photos, click on the gallery on the right side of the page.

1976 Chevy Chevelle Laguna S-3

(Fig. 10)

Scott Hamilton, Hamilton's Care Care, Arlington, Texas

Fig. 10

Hamilton got this Chevy Chevelle Laguna a few years ago as $500 junker. The car has a 350 engine, with modifications. The transmission is stock with a shift kit. It has premium ACDelco brakes, pads, shoes, & drilled rotors, he said, "...really stops great, worth the extra price."

His daughter drives the car to school. She is the first deaf student in her school district to compete & medal in the district's academic decathlon.

Hamilton's Car Care has been a TSS shop for five years and Hamilton said they're "very happy with program. The training, information, ACDelco products, and other benefits are all great."

1971 Dodge Dart Swinger

(Fig. 11)

Bill Levine, Hamden Public Works, Hamden, Conn

Fig. 11

Levine's Dodge Dart is a 1971 model that he repowered with a 360 - it started life as a slant 6 car. The body needed a lot of help due to rot but was finally done in basecoat/clearcoat. "It's a great cruiser," Levine said.

1970 Chevy Chevelle SS

(Fig. 12)

Ricky Stephenson, Car Concepts, Inc., Hurst, Texas

Fig. 12

When Stephenson purchased this 1970 Chevelle SS from the original owner around 1994, the drivetrain was disassembled in the guy's back yard, the engine was in pieces in the trunk, the transmission was on the ground, the passenger window was broken, the interior was trashed, and there were dents in every panel, but most everything was present and it did have the original numbers matching 396/402.

He spent about eight years restoring the car. A few months after completion and a trip to the track, he became disappointed with the performance, although it was normal performance for a stock 396. He then pulled the original motor out and installed a 496 stroker with a 2 stage nitrous system.

During the restoration, he used many ACDelco parts, but his initial plan was to use an Interstate battery. He was encouraged to install an ACDelco battery by a vendor his shop was using at the time.

"That was the best battery life I can remember, that battery lasted almost seven years. Unfortunately, I had to replace it last year with another ACDelco battery," he said.

1931 Ford Model A Coupe

(Fig. 13)

Mike Militello, ACDelco

Fig. 13

- Thanks to Mike DeSander