Article Beginning: Click A Link To View Tip

ARTICLE BEGINNING
Tips Click a link to view tip

Tim__G
Question: Charging for shop supplies
Tim__G
Question: Machining new brake rotors ?
greasybob
Video Tip: RELATIVE COMPRESSION TESTING WITH A LOW
AMP PROBE
Tim__G
Question: Strut spring compressor TOOL
ANNOUNCMENT: Problems Opening PDFs in Tips
Brett E
Question for the Admin: Searching for tips
Ben350
Tip: General Motors LS engine oil pressure adapter
Doctor D
Video Tip: Testing AC Waveforms on ABS Sensors
greasybob
Video Tip: USING SOME CARB CLEANER AND THE 02
SENSORS TO FIND A VACUUM LEAK
Tech1
Question: Power Probe products-your thoughts
Wrecker 1
Question: battery draw - 1995 Nissan Hardbody Pickup
CRAIG
CROSSLAND
Tip: Inexpensive fuel tank adapters for EVAP testing.
M. Bliss
Tip: Spark plug removal
#40Fan
Question: Bone Creeper, anyone have one?
Ben350
Tip: Blind bearing race removal trick
Tech1
Question: techs vs management - new tire placement, front or rear?
Tim__G
Tip: Using A weed sprayer to Pump Light Fluids .
Kevin C
Tip: ZF transmission parking brake assembly.
greasybob
Tip: REPLACING GM RADIO COMPONENTS TO AVOID
GOING TO THE DEALER FOR PROGRAMMING
Doctor D
Tip: Be extra cautious newer auto starts
Tech1
Comment: All the knowledge that comes with Mitchell1
Tech1
thanks
Steve Dieker
Tip: how to test alcohol % in fuel
ted108
Tip: Update/Customize PCM Operation-GM Vehicles
Tim__G
Question: Some Mean spirited post on here .
Dr J ake
Tip: PROPER TOOL FOR HOLDING CAMS BY DR J AKE
M. Bliss
Tip: O2 sensor circuit testing, most vehicles.
J ason O
Tip: Auto Enginuity scan tool
liljoe268
Comment: USER DIRECTORY
Tech1
Question: snap on smart smoke machine
J oerace
Question: Discussion - Shocks and Struts
J P 907
Video Tip: Belt Noise Findings
J akeP.
Video Tip: NO START GM ANTI-THEFT WIRES BROKEN AT
IG SW
J eremy G
Video Tip: REFILLING COOLING SYSTEMS
DARK SIDE
ADMIN 1
Comment: THE WISE PHRASE BANK BY MITCHELL USERS
Dr J ake
Page 1 of 67 BASIC TROUBLE SHOOTING - GENERAL INFORMATION -1991 Honda Civic CRX
6/10/2014 http://ondemand5.com/mric/common/asp/printart.aspx
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Tip: A COMPUTER TIP by dR.jake
greasybob
Video Tip: HOW T REMOVE STUBBORN PLASTIC FUEL
FILTER CAPS 7.3 DIESELS AND OTHERS
Doctor DDDD
Tip: Waste spark and fouled plugs.
Marv C
Tip: overheat
Tim__G
Tip: P0420 & P0430 - Bad catalytic converters
Tech1
Tip: fan clutches yikes
Brian A
Tip: electrical terminals
HOODMOLE
Tip: wore out swivel sockets??
J akeP.
Tip: WIERD, CRAZY, BIZARRE, AND INTERMITTENT
PROBLEMS
DR. J ake
Question: SNAP-ON VERUS DIAGNOSTICS COMPUTER
Kevin C
Tip: another way ao avoid an angry PCM
Tip: Better Graphic Viewing Using Internet Explorer 7
M. Bliss
Question: Reflashing and reprogramming.
J eremy G
Video Tip: "REMOVING RUSTY FASTENERS WITH AIR
HAMMER"
Thom G.
Tip: Axle Removal - 20 min.job gone bad!!
Tech1
Question: FUEL TANK
Doctor D
Video Tip: Checking For Blown Head Gaskets by DrD
greasybob
Video Tip: HOW TO RE ATTATCH A RAER WINDOW
DEFROSTER TAB
greasybob
Video Tip: USING YOUR PASS THRU PRO AS A TECH 2
SCANNER
Tech1
Question: Engine runs in crank position only.
Timball
Tip: kia misfire, cold
J akeP.
Tip: THE PROTECT MODE TEST
J akeP.
Tip: CRACKED FINGERS--THE FIX
J akeP.
Tip: Posting Engine Pictures For Reassembly Reference
J akeP.
Tip: ABOUT ELECTROLYSIS
J akeP.
Tip: OTC SOLARITY UPDATE PROBLEM
J akeP.
Tip: Parasite Hunt First Step-jake
J akeP.
Tip: Getting out a broken exhaust bolt method....jake
J akeP.
Misc. Tips for Various Vehicles
Tim__G
Tip: Inexpensive service floor mats
greasybob
Video Tip: A DEMONSTRATION OF THE NEW SNAP ON
TPMS 3 TOOL
Tech1
Question: Cold Start Issue
Tech1
Question: LOW AMP PROBE TESTING
J akeP.
Tip: HOW BOUT MASH ON THE BRAKES FUR ME----jake
J akeP.
Tip: Battery Testing-jake
Tech1
Tip: Start then stall when cold - 2001 Nissan Maxima
Tech1
Question: OTC Genisys/Toyota Evap Diag Info needed
M. Bliss
Tip: Air blend door failures on multiple vehicles.
#40Fan
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* PLEASE READ THIS FIRST *
Question: Repeated Kat's Engine Heater Failer
Tech1
Question: Relay chatter
J akeP.
Tip: RIGHT CLICKING
J akeP.
Tip: A WAY TO GET OUT OF TAKING BATTERY ALOOSE
DURING STARTER SURGERY
Tim__G
Tip: Cleaning Throttle bodies on Throttle by wire ( Electronic
Thottle Actuators )
Tech1
Question: scan tool recommendation
J ulius Toltesi
Tip: Changing a tire on a Hummer H1
Tech1
Question: PASS. SEAT CALIBRATION - 2010 Corolla
Tim__G
Question: 3 inch LCD Borescope A/C delco for $115.00
Tech1
Question: rear tire deflation
Tim__G
Question: Cleaning Throttle by wire Throttle bodies
Tech1
Tip: HONDA 98-02 ACCORD SURGE WHEN A/C
RUNNING,MAY ALSO PING ON ACCELLERATION
Tech1
Question: General question About Removing Coolant from
cylinders on 3.8 L General Motors
diesel man
Question: Pass Thru Pro II
#40Fan
Question: Under Hood LED Rechargable Light
Tech1
Question: 88 CHEVY TRUCK No Power
Tech1
Question: fuel pressuer
Beermanjon
Question: about mysterious odors
CRAIG
CROSSLAND
Tip: FORD FUEL RAIL FLEXIBLE CROSSOVER LEAK
REPAIR
Comment: GENERAL DISCUSSION - PART 67
Comment: GENERAL DISCUSSION - PART 63 - CLOSED
dR SpArkz
Tip: YOU CAN MAKE SEAFOAM YOURSELF WITH:
liljoe268
Comment: USER DIRECTORY
Mike..K
Tip Engine noise 04 - 09 Explorer Mountaineer 4.0
Brian A
Question: ABOUT SHOP MANAGEMENT
J oerace
Question: about hoists/lifts
greasybob
Video Tip: HOW TO REFLASH A FORD PCM
J akeP.
LINKS: SAVE A FAVORITE LINK HERE
Brian A
Discussion: Tools and equipment
Tip: Using photos & videos in tips, and in your shop in general.
CruisinMiles
Tip: Easy No Frustration Maintenance Light Reset
Tech1
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ACCESSORIES & ELECTRICAL
CHARGING SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
Question: air bag removal drivers side
Vanessa O.
Tip: **ATTENTION ALL NYS REPAIR SHOP OWNERS**
ANNOUNCEMENT: Tip contest ending J uly 31, 2013
UPDATE: New Repair Program Available - ProDemand and
ShopKeyPro
Dr. House
Comment: IDEAS HOW TO MAKE THE PRODUCT BETTER
CRAIG
CROSSLAND
Question: Multi layered Steel head Gasket surface preperation?
NOTE: This is GENERAL information. This article is not intended to be
specific to any unique situation or individual vehicle configuration. The
purpose of this Trouble Shooting information is to provide a list of
common causes to problem symptoms. For model-specific Trouble
Shooting, refer to SUBJECT, DIAGNOSTIC, or TESTING articles
available in the section(s) you are accessing.
greasybob
Tip: REPLACING GM RADIO COMPONENTS TO AVOID GOING
TO THE DEALER FOR PROGRAMMING
Brett Hays
Tip: Brake lamp failure
Tech1
Question: Electronic tire valve - 2009 Altima - RESOLVED
Mike1.
Tip: Lighting problems w/codes wo/codes
J akeP.
Tip: PARASITE HUNTERS----on bcm vehicles there will be a
drainage.......
Tech1
Question: ELECTRICAL Draw
J akeP.
Tip: FLUKE METER
redneck
wrencher
Tip: Front and rear cameras - 2012 RAPTOR
J akeP.
Tip: ABOUT RELAYS
Tech1
Question: alternator conversion on J ohn Deere tractor
Tech1
Question: electrical draw 1997 blazer
Tech1
Question: no info.on 2011
Tech1
Question: fuel pulse witdh
Dr
J ake
Video Tip: INTERESTING NEW TOOL-->>YA SEEN IT ON STAR
TREK MAKES THINGS RED HOT..
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BASIC CHARGING SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
CONDITION & POSSIBLE CAUSE CORRECTION
Vehicle Will Not Start
Dead battery Check battery cells, alternator
belt tension and alternator
output
Loose or corroded battery connections Check all charging system
connections
Ignition circuit or switch malfunction Check and replace as necessary
Alternator Light Stays On With Engine Running
Loose or worn alternator drive belt Check alternator drive tension
and condition, See Belt
Adjustment in TUNE-UP
article in the TUNE-UP section
Loose alternator wiring connections Check all charging system
connections
Short in alternator light wiring See Indicator Warning Lights in
STANDARD INSTRUMENTS
in the ACCESSORIES &
EQUIPMENT section
Defective alternator stator or diodes See Bench Tests in
ALTERNATOR article
Defective regulator See Regulator Check in
ALTERNATOR article
Alternator Light Stays Off With Ignition Switch ON
Blown fuse See WIRING DIAGRAMS
Defective alternator See Testing in ALTERNATOR
article
Defective indicator light bulb or socket See Indicator Warning Lights in
STANDARD INSTRUMENTS
in the ACCESSORIES &
EQUIPMENT section
Alternator Light Stays OFF With Ignition Switch ON
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Short in alternator wiring See On-Vehicle Tests in
ALTERNATOR article
Defective rectifier bridge See Bench Tests in
ALTERNATOR article
Lights or Fuses Burn Out Frequently
Defective alternator wiring See On-Vehicle Tests in
ALTERNATOR article
Defective regulator See Regulator Check in
ALTERNATOR article
Defective battery Check and replace as necessary
Ammeter Gauge Shows Discharge
Loose or worn drive belt Check alternator drive belt
tension and condition. See Belt
Adjustment in TUNE-UP
article in the TUNE-UP section
Defective wiring Check all wires and wire
connections
Defective alternator or regulator See Bench Tests and On-
Vehicle Tests in
ALTERNATOR article
Defective ammeter, or improper ammeter wiring
connection
See Testing in STANDARD
INSTRUMENTS in the
ACCESSORIES &
EQUIPMENT section
Noisy Alternator
Loose drive pulley Tighten drive pulley attaching
nut
Loose mounting bolts Tighten all alternator mounting
bolts
Worn or dirty bearings See Bearing Replacement
ALTERNATOR article
Defective diodes or stator See Bench Test in
ALTERNATOR article
Battery Does Stay Charged
Loose or worn drive belt Check alternator drive belt
tension and condition. See Belt
Adjustment in appropriate
TUNE-UP article in the TUNE-
UP section
Loose or corroded battery connections Check all charging system
connections
Loose alternator connections Check all charging system
connections
Defective alternator or battery See On-Vehicle Tests and
Bench Tests in ALTERNATOR
article
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IGNITION SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
Add-on electrical accessories exceeding alternator
capacity
Install larger alternator
Battery Overcharged-Uses Too Much Water
Defective battery Check alternator output and
repair as necessary
Defective alternator See On-Vehicle Test and Bench
Tests in ALTERNATOR article
Excessive alternator voltage Check alternator output and
repair as necessary
Mr Horsepower
Question: Flooded rotary engine - '04 RX8
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Fig. 1: Ignition Secondary Trouble Shooting Chart
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Fig. 2: Ignition Primary Trouble Shooting Chart
STARTER TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC STARTER TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Starter Fails to Operate
Dead battery or bad connections between starter and
battery
Check battery charge and all
wires and connections to
starter
Ignition switch faulty or misadjusted Adjust or replace ignition
switch
Open circuit between starter switch ignition terminal on
starter relay
Check and repair wires and
connections as necessary
Starter relay or starter defective See Testing in STARTER
article
Open solenoid pull-in wire Testing in STARTER article
Starter Does Not Operate and Headlights Dim
Weak battery or dead cell Charge or replace battery as
necessary
Loose or corroded battery connections Check that battery connections
are clean and tight
Internal ground in starter windings See Testing in STARTER
article
Grounded starter fields See Testing in STARTERS
Armature rubbing on pole See STARTER article shoes
Starter Turns but Engine Does Not Rotate
Starter clutch slipping See STARTER article
Broken clutch housing See STARTER article
Pinion shaft rusted or dry See STARTER article
Engine basic timing incorrect See Ignition Timing in TUNE-
UP article
Broken teeth on engine flywheel Replace flywheel and check
for starter pinion gear damage
Starter Will Not Crank Engine
Faulty overrunning clutch See STARTER article
Page 10 of 67 BASIC TROUBLE SHOOTING - GENERAL INFORMATION -1991 Honda Civic C...
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Broken flywheel teeth Replace flywheel and check
for starter pinion gear damage
Armature shaft sheared or reduction gear teeth stripped See STARTER article
Weak battery Charge or replace battery as
necessary
Faulty solenoid See On-Vehicle Tests in
STARTER article
Poor grounds Check all ground connections
for tight and clean connections
switch as necessary
Starter Cranks Engine Slowly
Battery weak or defective Charge or replace battery as
necessary
Engine overheated See ENGINE COOLING
SYSTEM article
Engine oil too heavy Check that proper viscosity oil
is used
Poor battery-to-starter connections Check that all between battery
and starter are clean and tight
Current draw too low or too high See Bench Tests in STARTER
article
Bent armature, loose pole shoes screws or worn bearing See STARTER article
Burned solenoid contacts Replace solenoid
Faulty starter Replace starter
Starter Engages Engine Only Momentarily
Engine timing too far advanced See Ignition Timing in TUNE-
UP article
Overrunning clutch not engaging properly Replace overrunning clutch.
See STARTER article
Broken starter clutch See STARTER article
starter pinion gear for damage
Weak drive assembly thrust spring See STARTER article
Weak hold-in coil See Bench Tests in STARTER
article
Starter Drive Will Not Engage
Defective point assembly See Testing in STARTER
article
Poor point assembly ground See Testing in STARTER
article
Defective pull-in coil Replace starter solenoid
Starter Relay Does Not Close
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Dead battery Charge or replace battery as
necessary
Faulty wiring Check all wiring and
connections leading to relay
Neutral safety switch faulty Replace neutral safety switch
Starter relay faulty Replace starter relay
Starter Drive Will Not Disengage
Starter motor loose on mountings Tighten starter attach bolts
Worn drive end bushing See STARTER article
Damaged engine flywheel teeth Replace flywheel and starter
pinion gear for damage
Drive yolk return spring broken or missing Replace return spring
Faulty ignition switch Replace ignition switch
Insufficient clearance between winding leads to solenoid
terminal and main contact in solenoid
Replace starter solenoid
Starter clutch not disengaging Replace starter clutch
Ignition starter switch Replace ignition switch
contacts sticking
Starter Relay Operates but Solenoid Does Not
Faulty solenoid switch, switch connections or relay Check all wiring between relay
and solenoid or replace relay
or solenoid as necessary
Broken lead or loose soldered connections Repair wire or wire
Solenoid Plunger Vibrates When Switch is Engaged
necessary
Solenoid contacts corroded Clean contacts or replace
solenoid
Faulty wiring Check all wiring leading to
solenoid
Broken connections inside switch cover Repair connections or replace
solenoid
Open hold-in wire solenoid
Low Current Draw
Worn brushes or weak brush springs Replace brushes or brush
springs as necessary
High Pitched Whine During Cranking Before Engine Fires but Engine Fires and Cranks
Normally
Distance too great between starter pinion and flywheel Align starter or check that
correct starter and flywheel are
being used
High Pitched Whine After Engine Fires With Key released. Engine Fires and Cranks Normally
Distance too small between starter pinion and flywheel Flywheel runout contributes to
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AIR CONDITIONING & HEAT
AIR CONDITIONING TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC AIR CONDITIONING TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
the intermittent nature
Tech1
Question: ENGINE HEATING UP PROPERLY NO IN CAB HEAT
Tech1
Question: ac
ted108
Tip: A/C drain water inside car...various makes & models
Dr J ake
Tip: RECYCLER NO CAN BE FIXED..!!! MAYBE IT CAN, AYE..
M. Bliss
Gordon Miles
Question: A/C Leak Detecter Tools
Tech1
Question: 96 MERCEDES 220 AC COMPRESSOR WON't engage
WARNING: This is GENERAL information. This article is not intended to be
specific to any unique situation or individual vehicle
configuration. The purpose of this Trouble Shooting information
is to provide a list of common causes to problem symptoms. For
model-specific Trouble Shooting, refer to SUBJECT,
DIAGNOSTIC, or TESTING articles available in the section(s) you
are accessing.
CONDITION POSSIBLE CAUSE
Compressor Not Working Compressor clutch circuit open.
..... Compressor clutch coil inoperative.
..... Poor clutch ground connection.
..... Fan belts loose.
..... Thermostatic switch inoperative.
..... Thermostatic switch not adjusted.
..... Ambient temperature switch open.
..... Superheat fuse blown.
Excessive Noise or Vibration Missing or loose mounting bolts.
..... Bad idler pulley bearings.
..... Fan belts not tightened correctly.
..... Compressor clutch contacting body.
..... Excessive system pressure.
..... Compressor oil level low.
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HEATER SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC HEATER SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
..... Damaged clutch bearings.
..... Damaged reed valves.
..... Damaged compressor.
Insufficient or No Cooling;
Compressor Working
Expansion valve inoperative.
..... Heater control valve stuck open.
..... Low system pressure.
..... Blocked condenser fins.
..... Blocked evaporator fins.
..... Vacuum system leak.
..... Vacuum motors inoperative.
..... Control cables improperly adjusted.
..... Restricted air inlet.
..... Mode doors binding.
..... Blower motor inoperative.
..... Temperature above system capacity.
Tech1
Tip: Heater core flushing
M. Bliss
Shooting, refer to DIAGNOSTIC, or TESTING articles available in the
section(s) you are accessing.
Insufficient, Erratic, or No Heat Low Coolant Level
..... Incorrect thermostat.
..... Restricted coolant flow through core.
..... Heater hoses plugged.
..... Misadjusted control cable.
..... Sticking heater control valve.
..... Vacuum hose leaking.
..... Vacuum hose blocked.
..... Vacuum motors inoperative.
..... Blocked air inlet.
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BRAKES
BRAKE SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
BRAKE SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
..... Inoperative heater blower motor.
..... Oil residue on heater core fins.
..... Dirt on heater core fins.
Too Much Heat Improperly adjusted cables.
..... Sticking heater control valve.
..... No vacuum to heater control valve.
..... Temperature door stuck open.
Air Flow Changes During
Acceleration
Vacuum system leak.
..... Bad check valve or reservoir.
Air From Defroster At All Times Vacuum system leak.
..... Improperly adjusted control cables.
..... Inoperative vacuum motor.
Blower Does Not Operate
Correctly
Blown fuse.
..... Blower motor windings open.
..... Resistors burned out.
..... Motor ground connection loose.
..... Wiring harness connections loose.
..... Blower motor switch inoperative.
..... Blower relay inoperative.
..... Fan binding or foreign object in housing.
..... Fan blades broken or bent.
Tech1
Question: Cleaning brake rotors with soap and water?
Brakes Pull Left or Right
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Incorrect tire pressure Inflate tires to proper pressure
Front end out of alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Mismatched tires Check tires sizes
Restricted brake lines or hoses Check hose routing
Loose or malfunctioning caliper See DISC BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Bent shoe or oily linings See DRUM BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Malfunctioning rear brakes See DRUM, DISC BRAKES
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Loose suspension parts See SUSPENSION
Noises Without Brakes Applied
Front linings worn out Replace linings
Dust or oil on drums or rotors See DRUM, DISC BRAKES
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Noises With Brakes Applied
Insulator on outboard shoe damaged See DISC BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Incorrect pads or linings Replace pads or linings
Brake Rough, Chatters or Pulsates
Excessive lateral runout Check rotor runout
Parallelism not to specifications Reface or replace rotor
Wheel bearings not adjusted See SUSPENSION
Rear drums out-of-round Reface or replace drums
Disc pad reversed, steel against rotor Remove and reinstall pad
Excessive Pedal Effort
Malfunctioning power unit See POWER BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Partial system failure Check fluid and pipes
Worn disc pad or lining Replace pad or lining
Caliper piston stuck or sluggish See DISC BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Master cylinder piston stuck See MASTER CYLINDERS
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Brake fade due to incorrect pads for linings Replace pads or linings
Linings or pads glazed Replace pads or linings
Worn drums Reface or replace drums
Excessive Pedal Travel
Partial brake system failure Check fluid and pipes
Insufficient fluid in master cylinder See MASTER CYLINDERS
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Air trapped in system See BRAKE BLEEDING or
BRAKE SYSTEM
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Rear brakes not adjusted See Adjustments in DRUM
BRAKES or BRAKE
SYSTEM
Bent shoe or lining See DRUM BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Plugged master cylinder cap See MASTER CYLINDERS
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Improper brake fluid Replace brake fluid
Pedal Travel Decreasing
Compensating port plugged See MASTER CYLINDERS
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Swollen cup in master cylinder See MASTER CYLINDERS
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Master cylinder piston not returning See MASTER CYLINDERS
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Weak shoe retracting springs See DRUM BRAKES
BRAKE SYSTEM
Wheel cylinder piston sticking See DRUM BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Dragging Brakes
Master cylinder pistons not returning See MASTER CYLINDERS
BRAKE SYSTEM
Restricted brake lines or hoses Check line routing
Incorrect parking brake adjustment See DRUM BRAKES
BRAKE SYSTEM
Parking Brake cables frozen See DRUM BRAKES
BRAKE SYSTEM
Incorrect installation of inboard disc pad Remove and replace correctly
Power booster output rod too long See POWER BRAKE UNITS
BRAKE SYSTEM
Brake pedal not returning freely See DISC, DRUM BRAKES
BRAKE SYSTEM
Brakes Grab or Uneven Braking Action
Malfunction of combination valve See CONTROL VALVE or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Malfunction of power brake unit See POWER BRAKE UNITS
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Binding brake pedal See DISC, DRUM BRAKES
or BRAKE SYSTEM
Pulsation or Roughness
Uneven pad wear caused by caliper See DISC BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Uneven rotor wear See DISC BRAKES or
BRAKE SYSTEM
Drums out-of-round Reface or replace drums
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ENGINE MECHANICAL
COOLING SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
COOLING SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
Thom G.
Tip: USE OE OIL FILTERS ONLY / 6.0 & 6.4 Deisels
Tip: Cooling system stop-leak in crankcase
J akeP.
Tip: Posting Engine Pictures For Reassembly Reference
Tech1
Question: HEAVY OIL CONSUMPTION
Toms Auto
Question: Oil reminder reset
Tech1
Question: oil consumption - '04 Tahoe 5.3L
J eremy
G
Video Tip: REFILLING COOLING SYSTEMS
Tech1
Question: General question About Removing Coolant from cylinders on
3.8 L General Motors
Tech1
Question: overheating 97 4.6 cobra
Overheating
Coolant Leak Fill/Pressure Test System
A/C Condenser Fins Clogged Remove/Clean Condenser
Radiator Fins Clogged Remove/Clean Radiator
Thermostat Stuck Closed Replace Thermostat
Clogged Cooling System Passages Clean/Flush Cooling System
Water Pump Malfunction Replace Water Pump
Fan Clutch Malfunction Replace Fan Clutch
Retarded Ignition Timing Reset Ignition Timing
Cooling Fan Malfunction Test Cooling Fan/Circuit
Cooling Fan Motor Malfunction Test Fan Motor
Cooling Fan Relay Malfunction Test Fan Relay
Faulty Radiator Cap Replace Radiator Cap
Broken/Slipping Fan Belt Replace Fan Belt
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GASOLINE ENGINE - MECHANICAL TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC GASOLINE ENGINE - MECHANICAL TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Restricted Exhaust Repair Exhaust System
Corrosion
Impurities In Coolant Clean/Flush System
Coolant Leakage
Damaged hose Replace Hose
Leaky Water Pump Replace Water Pump
Damaged Radiator Seam Replace/Repair Radiator
Leaky Thermostat Cover Replace Thermostat Cover
Cylinder Head Problem Check Head/Head Gasket
Leaky Freeze Plugs Replace Freeze Plugs
Recovery System Inoperative
Loose and/or Defective Radiator Cap Replace Radiator Cap
Overflow Tube Clogged and/or Leaking Repair Tube
Recovery Bottle Vent Restricted Clean Vent
No Heater Core Flow
Collapsed Heater Hose Replace Heater Hose
Plugged Heater Core Clean/Replace Heater Core
Faulty Heater Valve Replace Heater Valve
Doctor D
Tip: Oil leak from dipstick area - GM
Tech1
Question: 99 FORD RANGER
Tech1
Question: fuel system
Engine Lopes At Idle
Intake manifold-to-head leaks Replace manifold gasket, See
ENGINES
Blown head gasket Replace head gasket, See
ENGINES
Worn timing gears, chain or sprocket Replace gears, chain or
sprocket
Worn camshaft lobes Replace camshaft, See
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ENGINES
Overheated engine Check cooling system, See
COOLING
Blocked crankcase vent valve Remove restriction
Leaking EGR valve Repair leak and/or replace
valve
Faulty fuel pump Replace fuel pump
Engine Has Low Power
Leaking fuel pump Repair leak and/or replace
fuel pump
Excessive piston-to-bore clearance Install larger pistons, See
ENGINES
Sticking valves or weak valve springs Check valve train
components, See ENGINES
Incorrect valve timing Reset valve timing, See
ENGINES
ENGINES
Blown head gasket Replace head gasket. See
ENGINES.
Clutch slipping Adjust pedal and/or replace
components, See ENGINES
Engine overheating Check cooling system, See
COOLING
Auto. Trans. pressure regulator valve faulty Replace pressure regulator
valve
Auto. Trans. fluid level too low Add fluid as necessary
Improper vacuum diverter valve operation Replace vacuum diverter
valve
Vacuum leaks Inspect vacuum system and
repair as required
Leaking piston rings Replace piston rings, See
ENGINES
Faulty High Speed Operation
Low fuel pump volume Replace fuel pump
Leaking valves or worn Replace valves and/or springs,
See ENGINES
Incorrect valve timing Reset valve timing,See
ENGINES
Intake manifold restricted Remove restriction
Worn distributor shaft Replace distributor
Faulty Acceleration
Improper fuel pump stroke Remove pump and reset pump
stroke
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Incorrect ignition timing Reset ignition timing, See
TUNE-UP
Leaking valves Replace valves, See
ENGINES
Worn fuel pump diaphragm or piston Replace diaphragm or piston
Intake Backfire
Improper ignition timing Reset ignition timing, See
TUNE-UP
Faulty accelerator pump discharge Replace accelerator pump
Improper choke operation Check choke and adjust as
required
Defective EGR valve Replace EGR valve
Fuel mixture too lean Reset air/fuel mixture, See
TUNE-UP
Choke valve initial clearance too large Reset choke valve initial
clearance
Exhaust Backfire
Vacuum leak Inspect and repair vacuum
system
Faulty vacuum diverter valve Replace vacuum diverter
valve
Faulty choke operation Check choke and adjust as
required
Exhaust system leak repair exhaust system leak
Engine Detonation
Ignition timing too far advanced Reset ignition timing, See
TUNE-UP
Faulty ignition system Check ignition timing, See
TUNE-UP
Spark plugs loose or faulty Retighten or replace plugs
Fuel delivery system clogged Inspect lines, pump and filter
for clog
EGR valve inoperative Replace EGR valve
PCV system inoperative Inspect and/or replace hoses
or valve
Vacuum leaks Check vacuum system and
repair leaks
Excessive combustion chamber deposits Remove built-up deposits
Leaking, sticking or broken valves Inspect and/or replace valves
External Oil Leakage
Fuel pump improperly seated or worn gasket Remove pump, replace gasket
and seat properly
Oil pan gasket broken or pan bent Straighten pan and replace
gasket
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Timing chain cover gasket broken Replace timing chain cover
gasket
Rear main oil seal worn Replace rear main oil seal
Oil pan drain plug not seated properly Remove and reinstall drain
plug
Camshaft bearing drain hole blocked Remove restriction
Oil pressure sending switch leaking Remove and reinstall sending
switch
Excessive Oil Consumption
Worn valve stems or guides Replace stems or guides, See
ENGINES
Valve "O" ring seals damaged Replace "O" ring seals, See
ENGINES
Plugged oil drain back holes Remove restrictions
Improper PCV valve operation Replace PCV valve
Engine oil level too high Remove excess oil
Engine oil too thin Replace thicker oil
Valve stem oil deflectors damaged Replace oil deflectors
Incorrect piston rings Replace piston rings, See
ENGINES
Piston ring gaps not staggered Reinstall piston rings, See
ENGINES
Insufficient piston ring tension Replace rings, See ENGINES
Piston ring grooves or oil return slots clogged Replace piston
rings, See ENGINES
Piston rings sticking in grooves Replace piston rings, See
ENGINES
Piston ring grooves excessively worn Replace piston and rings, See
ENGINES
Compression rings installed upside down Replace compression rings
correctly, See ENGINES
Worn or scored cylinder walls Rebore cylinders or replace
block
Mismatched oil ring expander and rail Replace oil ring expander and
rail, See ENGINES
Intake gasket dowels too long Replace intake gasket dowels
Excessive main or connecting rod bearing clearance Replace main or connecting
rod bearings, See ENGINES
No Oil Pressure
Low oil level Add oil to proper level
Oil pressure sender or gauge broken Replace sender or gauge
Oil pump malfunction Remove and overhaul oil
pump, See ENGINES
Oil pressure relief valve sticking Remove and reinstall valve
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Oil pump passages blocked Overhaul oil pump, See
ENGINES
Oil pickup screen or tube blocked Remove restriction
Loose oil inlet tube Tighten oil inlet tube
Loose camshaft bearings Replace camshaft bearings,
See ENGINES
Internal leakage at oil passages Replace block or cylinder
head
Low Oil Pressure
Low engine oil level Add oil to proper level
Engine oil too thin Remove and replace with
thicker oil
Excessive oil pump clearance Reduce oil pump clearance,
See ENGINES
Oil pickup tube or screen blocked Remove restrictions
Main, rod or cam bearing clearance excessive Replace bearing to reduce
clearance, See ENGINES
High Oil Pressure
Improper grade of oil Replace with proper oil
Oil pressure relief valve stuck closed Eliminate binding
Oil pressure sender or gauge faulty Replace sender or gauge
Noisy Main Bearings
Inadequate oil supply Check oil delivery to main
bearings
Excessive main bearing clearance Replace main bearings, See
ENGINES
Excessive crankshaft end play Replace crankshaft, See
ENGINES
Loose flywheel or torque converter Tighten attaching bolts
Loose or damaged vibration damper Tighten or replace vibration
damper
Crankshaft journals out-of-round Re-grind crankshaft journals
Excessive belt tension Loosen belt tension
Noisy Connecting Rods
Excessive bearing clearance or missing bearing Replace bearing, See
ENGINES
Crankshaft rod journal out-of-round Re-grind crankshaft journal
Misaligned connecting rod or cap Remove rod or cap and
realign
Incorrectly tightened rod bolts Remove and re-tighten rod
bolts
Noisy Pistons and Rings
Excessive piston-to-bore clearance Install larger pistons, See
ENGINES
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Bore tapered or out-of-round Rebore block
Piston ring broken Replace piston rings, See
ENGINES
Piston pin loose or seized Replace piston pin, See
ENGINES
Connecting rods misaligned Realign connecting rods
Ring side clearance too loose or tight Replace with larger or smaller
rings
Carbon build-up on piston Remove carbon
Noisy Valve Train
Worn or bent push rods Replace push rods, See
ENGINES
Worn rocker arms or bridged pivots Replace push rods, See
ENGINES
Dirt or chips in valve lifters Remove lifters and remove
dirt/chips
Excessive valve lifter leak-down Replace valve lifters, See
ENGINES
Valve lifter face worn Replace valve lifters, See
ENGINES
Broken or cocked valve springs Replace or reposition springs
Too much valve stem-to-guide clearance Replace valve guides, See
ENGINES
Valve bent Replace valve, See ENGINES
Loose rocker arms Retighten rocker arms, See
ENGINES
Excessive valve seat run-out Reface valve seats, See
ENGINES
Missing valve lock Install new valve lock
Excessively worn camshaft lobes Replace camshaft, See
ENGINES
Plugged valve lifter oil holes Eliminate restriction or
replace lifter
Faulty valve lifter check ball Replace lifter check ball, See
ENGINES
Rocker arm nut installed upside down Remove and reinstall correctly
Valve lifter incorrect for engine Remove and replace valve
lifters
Faulty push rod seat or lifter plunger Replace plunger or push rod
Noisy Valves
Improper valve lash Re-adjust valve lash, See
ENGINES
Worn or dirty valve lifters Clean and/or replace lifters
Worn valve guides Replace valve guides, See
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ENGINE PERFORMANCE
ENGINES
Excessive valve seat or face run-out Reface seats or valve face
ENGINES
Loose rocker arm studs Re-tighten rocker arm studs,
See ENGINES
Bent push rods Replace push rods, See
ENGINES
Broken valve springs Replace valve springs, See
ENGINES
Burned,Sticking or Broken Valves
Weak valve springs or warped valves Replace valves and/or springs,
See ENGINES
Improper lifter clearance Re-adjust clearance or replace
lifters
Worn guides or improper guide clearance Replace valve guides, See
ENGINES
Out-of-round valve seats or improper seat width Re-grind valve seats
Gum deposits on valve stems, seats or guide Remove deposits
Improper spark timing Re-adjust spark timing
Broken Pistons/Rings
Undersize pistons Replace with larger pistons,
See ENGINES
Wrong piston rings Replace with correct rings,
See ENGINES
Out-of-round cylinder bore Re-bore cylinder bore
Improper connecting rod alignment Remove and realign
connecting rods
Excessively worn ring grooves Replace pistons, See
ENGINES
Improperly assembled piston pins Re-assemble pin-to-piston,
See ENGINES
Insufficient ring gap clearance Install new rings, See
ENGINES
Engine overheating Check cooling system
Incorrect ignition timing Re-adjust ignition timing, See
TUNE-UP
Excessive Exhaust Noise
Leaks at manifold to head, or to pipe Replace manifold or pipe
gasket
Exhaust manifold cracked or broken Replace exhaust manifold,
See ENGINES
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CARBURETOR TROUBLE SHOOTING:
BASIC COLD START SYMPTOMS TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: NO COMMUNICATION DIAGNOSTICS
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: CONFIRMED CASES OF PROTECT MODE VEHICLES
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: WIERD TROUBLE CODES
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: MASS AIR FLOW DIAGNOSTICS
ted108
Tip: Update/Customize PCM Operation-GM Vehicles
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: SPEED CHALLENGES/RACES
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: WEBSITES WITH GOOD DIAGNOSTIC
INFORMATION
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Video Tip: GM CLUSTER REPAIR with pictues & bonus links
by dR.jake
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: TEMP DIAGNOSTICS W/FLIR i7 CAMERA
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: PARALYZED MODE
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: 75 ROLLS ROYCE INFO
KLUNKERS SOUTH
Tip: SIGNAL DIAGNOSTICS
Klunkers Rocky Mtn.
Div.
Tip: Checking backpressure in rust belt
Tech1
Question: where is the trouble code index - 2007 Mercedes-Benz
R350
Tech1
Question: code retrieval
Tech1
Question: Carb for rotary nikki car b
Tech1
Question: ERRATIC MISSFIRE
Engine Won't Start
Choke not closing Check choke operation, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Choke linkage bent Check linkage, see FUEL
SYSTEM
Engine Starts, Then Dies
Choke vacuum kick setting too wide Check setting and adjust see,
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BASIC HOT START SYMPTOMS TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
BASIC COLD ENGINE DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOMS TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
FUEL SYSTEMS
Fast idle RPM too low Reset RPM to specification,
see TUNE-UP
Fast idle cam index incorrect Reset fast idle cam index, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Vacuum leak Inspect vacuum system for
leaks
Low fuel pump outlet Repair or replace pump, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Low carburetor fuel level Check float setting see FUEL
SYSTEM
Engine Quits Under Load
Choke vacuum kick setting incorrect Reset vacuum kick setting,see
FUEL SYSTEMS
FUEL SYSTEM
Incorrect hot fast idle speed RPM Reset fast idle RPM, see
TUNE-UP
Engine Starts, Runs Up, Then Idles, Slowly With Black Smoke
Choke vacuum kick set too narrow Reset vacuum kick, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
FUEL SYSTEMS
Hot fast idle RPM too low Reset fast idle RPM, see
TUNE-UP
Engine Won't Start
Engine flooded Allow fuel to evaporate
Engine Stalls in Gear
Choke vacuum kick setting incorrect Reset choke vacuum kick, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Fast idle RPM incorrect Reset fast idle RPM, see
TUNE-UP
Fast idle cam index incorrect Reset fast idle cam see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Acceleration Sag or Stall
Defective choke control switch Replace choke control switch
Choke vacuum kick setting incorrect Reset choke vacuum kick see,
FUEL SYSTEMS
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BASIC WARM ENGINE DRIVEABILITY SYMPTOMS TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
DIESEL ENGINE TROUBLE SHOOTING
Float level incorrect (too low) Adjust float level, FUEL
SYSTEMS
Accelerator pump defective Repair or replace pump see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Secondary throttles not closed Inspect lockout adjustment,
see FUEL SYSTEMS
Sag or Stall After Warmup
Defective choke control switch Replace choke control switch,
see FUEL SYSTEMS
Defective accelerator pump Replace pump, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Float level incorrect (too low) Adjust float level, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Backfiring & Black Smoke
Plugged heat crossover system Remove restriction
Hesitation With Small Amount of Gas Pedal Movement
Vacuum leak Inspect vacuum lines
Accelerator pump weak or inoperable Replace pump, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Float level setting too low Reset float level, see,FUEL
SYSTEMS
Metering rods sticking or binding Inspect and/or replace rods,
see FUEL SYSTEMS
Carburetor idle or transfer system plugged Inspect system and remove
restriction
Frozen or binding heated air inlet Inspect heated air door for
binding
Hesitation With Heavy Gas Pedal Movement
Defective accelerator pump Replace pump, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Metering rod carrier sticking or binding Remove restriction
Large vacuum leak Inspect vacuum system and
repair leak
Float level setting too low Reset float level, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Defective fuel pump, lines or filter Inspect pump, lines and filter
Air door setting incorrect Adjust air door setting, see
FUEL
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BASIC DIESEL ENGINE TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
J ohnnyronk
Tip: stalling in park only - 2009 Ford F550 Super Duty
Tech1
Question: lot's of blowby out road draft tube
NOTE: Diesel engines mechanical diagnosis is the same as gasoline engines
for items such as noisy valves, bearings, pistons, etc. The following
trouble shooting covers only items pertaining to diesel engines.
Engine Won't Crank
Bad battery connections or dead batteries Check connections and/or
replace batteries
Bad starter connections or bad starter Check connections and/or
replace starter
Engine Cranks Slowly, Won't Start
Bad battery connections or dead batteries Check connections and/or
replace batteries
Engine oil too heavy Replace engine oil
Engine Cranks Normally, But Will Not Start
Glow plugs not functioning Check glow plug system, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Glow plug control not functioning Check controller, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Fuel not injected into cylinders Check fuel injectors, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
No fuel to injection pump Check fuel delivery system
Fuel filter blocked Replace fuel filter
Fuel tank filter blocked Replace fuel tank filter
Fuel pump not operating Check pump operation and/or
replace pump
Fuel return system blocked Inspect system and remove
restriction
No voltage to fuel solenoid Check solenoid and
connections
Incorrect or contaminated fuel Replace fuel
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Incorrect injection pump timing Re-adjust pump timing, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Low compression Check valves, pistons, rings,
see ENGINES
Injection pump malfunction Inspect and/or replace
injection pump
Engine Starts, Won't Idle
Incorrect slow idle adjustment Reset idle adjustment, see
TUNE-UP
Fast idle solenoid malfunctioning Check solenoid and
connections
Fuel return system blocked Check system and remove
restrictions
Glow plugs go off too soon See glow plug diagnosis in
FUEL SYSTEMS
Injection pump timing incorrect Reset pump timing, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
No fuel to injection pump Check fuel delivery system
Low compression Check valves, piston, rings,
see ENGINES
Injection pump malfunction Replace injection pump, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Fuel solenoid closes in RUN position Check solenoid and
connections
Engines Starts/Idles Rough W/out Smoke or Noise
Incorrect slow idle adjustment Reset slow idle, see TUNE-UP
Injection line fuel leaks Check lines and connections
Fuel return system blocked Check lines and connections
Air in fuel system Bleed air from system
Injector nozzle malfunction Check nozzles, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Engines Starts and Idles Rough W/out Smoke or Noise, But Clears After Warm-Up
SYSTEMS
Engine not fully broken in Put more miles on engine
Air in system Bleed air from system
Injector nozzle malfunction Check nozzles, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Engine Idles Correctly, Misfires Above Idle
Blocked fuel filter Replace fuel filter
SYSTEMS
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Engine Won't Return To Idle
Fast idle adjustment incorrect Reset fast idle, see TUNE-UP
Internal injection pump malfunction Replace injection pump, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
External linkage binding Check linkage and remove
binding
Fuel Leaks On Ground
Loose or broken fuel line Check lines and connections
Internal injection pump seal leak Replace injection pump, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Cylinder Knocking Noise
Injector nozzles sticking open Test injectors, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Very low nozzle opening pressure Test injectors and/or replace
Loss of Engine Power
Restricted air intake Remove restriction
EGR valve malfunction Replace EGR valve
Blocked or damaged exhaust system Remove restriction and/or
replace components
Blocked fuel tank filter Replace filter
Restricted fuel filter Remove restriction and/or
replace filter
Block vent in gas cap Remove restriction and/or
replace cap
Tank-to-injection pump fuel supply blocked Check fuel lines and
connections
Blocked fuel return system Remove restriction
Blocked injector nozzles Check nozzle for blockage, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Low compression Check valves, rings, pistons,
see ENGINES
Loud Engine Noise With Black Smoke
Basic timing incorrect Reset timing, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Internal injection pump malfunction Replace injection pump, see
FUEL SYSTEMS
Incorrect injector pump housing pressure Check pressure, see FUEL
SYSTEMS
Engine Overheating
Cooling system leaks Check cooling system and
repair leaks
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VACUUM PUMP DIAGNOSIS
FUEL INJECTION TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC FUEL INJECTION TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Belt slipping or damaged Check tension and/or replace
belt
Thermostat stuck closed Remove and replace
thermostat, see ENGINE
COOLING
Head gasket leaking Replace head gasket
Oil Light on at Idle
Low oil pump pressure Check oil pump operation, see
ENGINES
Oil cooler or line restricted Remove restriction and/or
replace cooler
Engine Won't Shut Off
Injector pump fuel solenoid does not return fuel valve to
OFF position
Remove and check solenoid
and replace if needed
Excessive Noise
Loose pump-to-drive assembly screws Tighten screws
Loose tube on pump assembly Tighten tube
Valves not functioning properly Replace valves
Oil Leakage
Loose end plug Tighten end plug
Bad seal crimp Remove and re-crimp seal
Doctor
D
Tip: DIY Fuel Pump Bypass Machine
liljoe268
Tip: Clogged injectors
Doctor
D
Video Tip: Leaking Fuel Injectors TBI Systems
Tech1
Tip: HONDA 98-02 ACCORD SURGE WHEN A/C RUNNING,MAY
ALSO PING ON ACCELLERATION
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Engine Won't Start (Cranks Normally)
Cold start valve inoperative Test valve and circuit
Poor connection;vacuum or wiring Check vacuum and electrical
connections
Contaminated fuel Test fuel for water or alcohol
Defective fuel pump relay or circuit Test relay and wiring
Battery too low Charge and test battery
Low fuel pressure Test pressure regulator and
fuel pump, check for restricted
lines and filters
No distributor reference pulses Repair ignition system as
necessary
Open coolant temperature sensor circuit Test sensor and wiring
Shorted W.O.T. switch in T.P.S. Disconnect W.O.T. switch,
engine should start
Defective ECM Replace ECM
Fuel tank residual pressure valve leaks Test for fuel pressure drop
after shut down
Hard Starting
Disconnected hot air tube to air cleaner Reconnect tube and test
control valve
Defective Idle Air Control (IAC) valve Test valve operation and
circuit
Shorted, open or misadjusted T.P.S. Test and adjust or replace
T.P.S.
EGR valve open Test EGR valve and control
circuit
Poor Oxygen sensor signal Test for shorted or circuit
Incorrect mixture from PCV system Test PCV for flow, check
sealing of oil filter cap
Poor High Speed Operation
Low fuel pump volume Faulty pump or restricted fuel
lines or filters
Poor MAP sensor signal Test MAP sensor, vacuum
hose and wiring
Poor Oxygen sensor signal Test for shorted or open
sensor or circuit
Open coolant temperature sensor circuit Test sensor and wiring
Faulty ignition operation Check wires for cracks or poor
connections, test secondary
voltage with oscilloscope
Contaminated fuel Test fuel for water or alcohol
Intermittent ECM ground Test ECM ground connection
for resistance
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IGNITION SYSTEM TROUBLE SHOOTING
Restricted air cleaner Replace air cleaner
Restricted exhaust system Test for exhaust manifold
back pressure
Poor MAF sensor signal Check leakage between sensor
and manifold
Poor VSS signal If tester for ALCL hook-up is
available check that VSS
reading matches speedometer
Ping or Knock on Acceleration
Poor Knock sensor signal Test for shorted or open
sensor or circuit
Poor Baro sensor signal Test for shorted or open
sensor or circuit
Improper ignition timing See VEHICLE EMISSION
CONTROL LABEL (where
applicable)
Check for engine overheating problems Low coolant, loose belts or
electric cooling fan
inoperative
NOTE: For additional electronic fuel injection trouble shooting information,
see the appropriate article in the ENGINE PERFORMANCE section (not
all vehicles have Computer Engine Control articles). Information is
provided there for diagnosing fuel system problems on vehicles with
electronic fuel injection.
Tech1
Question: 1956 ford fairlane distributor issue
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Fig. 3: Ignition Secondary Trouble Shooting Chart
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Fig. 4: Ignition Primary Trouble Shooting Chart
STARTER TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC STARTER TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Starter Fails to Operate
Dead battery or bad connections between starter and
battery
Check battery charge and all
wires and connections to
starter
switch
Open circuit between starter switch ignition terminal on
starter relay
Check and repair wires and
Starter relay or starter defective See Testing in STARTER
article
Open solenoid pull-in wire See Testing in STARTER
article
Starter Does Not Operate and Headlights Dim
Weak battery or dead cell Charge or replace battery as
necessary
Loose or corroded battery connections Check that battery
connections are clean and
tight
Internal ground in starter windings See Testing in STARTER
article
Grounded starter fields See Testing in STARTERS
Armature rubbing on pole shoes See STARTER article
Starter Turns but Engine Does Not Rotate
Starter clutch slipping See STARTER article
Pinion shaft rusted or dry See STARTER article
Engine basic timing incorrect See Ignition Timing in
TUNE-UP article
for starter pinion gear
damage
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Starter Will Not Crank Engine
Faulty overrunning clutch See STARTER article
Broken flywheel teeth Replace flywheel and check
for starter pinion gear
damage
Armature shaft sheared or reduction gear teeth stripped See STARTER article
necessary
Faulty solenoid See On-Vehicle Tests in
STARTER article
Poor grounds Check all ground connections
for tight and clean
connections
switch as necessary
Starter Cranks Engine Slowly
Battery weak or defective Charge or replace battery as
necessary
Engine overheated See ENGINE COOLING
SYSTEM article
Engine oil too heavy Check that proper viscosity
oil is used
Poor battery-to-starter connections Check that all between
battery and starter are clean
and tight
Current draw too low or too high See Bench Tests in
STARTER article
Bent armature, loose pole shoes screws or worn bearings See STARTER article
Burned solenoid contacts Replace solenoid
Faulty starter Replace starter
Starter Engages Engine Only Momentarily
Engine timing too far advanced See Ignition Timing in
TUNE-UP article
Overrunning clutch not engaging properly Replace overrunning clutch.
See STARTER article
Broken starter clutch See STARTER article
starter pinion gear for
damage
Weak drive assembly thrust spring See STARTER article
Weak hold-in coil See Bench Tests in
STARTER article
Starter Drive Will Not Engage
Defective point assembly See Testing in STARTER
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article
Poor point assembly ground See Testing in STARTER
article
Defective pull-in coil Replace starter solenoid
Starter Relay Does Not Close
Dead battery Charge or replace battery as
necessary
Faulty wiring Check all wiring and
connections leading to relay
Neutral safety switch faulty Replace neutral safety switch
Starter relay faulty Replace starter relay
Starter Drive Will Not Disengage
Starter motor loose on mountings Tighten starter attach bolts
Worn drive end bushing See STARTER article
Damaged engine flywheel teeth Replace flywheel and starter
pinion gear for damage
Drive yolk return spring broken or missing Replace return spring
Faulty ignition switch Replace ignition switch
Insufficient clearance between winding leads to solenoid
terminal and main contact in solenoid
Replace starter solenoid
Starter clutch not disengaging Replace starter clutch
Ignition starter switch contacts sticking Replace ignition switch
Starter Relay Operates but Solenoid Does Not
Faulty solenoid switch, switch connections or relay Check all wiring between
relay and solenoid or replace
relay or solenoid as necessary
Broken lead or loose soldered connections Repair wire or wire
Solenoid Plunger Vibrates When Switch is Engaged
necessary
Solenoid contacts corroded Clean contacts or replace
solenoid
Faulty wiring Check all wiring leading to
solenoid
Broken connections inside switch cover Repair connections or replace
solenoid
Open hold-in wire Replace solenoid
Low Current Draw
Worn brushes or weak Replace brushes or brush
springs as necessary
High Pitched Whine During Cranking Before Engine Fires but Engine Fires and Cranks
Normally
Distance too great between starter pinion and flywheel Align starter or check that
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TUNE-UP TROUBLE SHOOTING - GAS ENGINE VEHICLES
BASIC SPARK PLUG TROUBLE SHOOTING CHARTS
correct starter and flywheel
are being used
High Pitched Whine After Engine Fires With Key released. Engine Fires and Cranks Normally
Distance too small between starter pinion and flywheel Flywheel runout contributes
to the intermittent nature
Normal Spark Plug Condition
Light Tan or Gray deposits No Action
Electrode not burned or fouled No Action
Gap tolerance not changed No Action
Cold Fouling or Carbon Deposits
Overrich air/fuel mixture Adjust air/fuel mixture, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
section
Faulty choke Replace choke assembly, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
section
Clogged air filter Clean and/or replace air filter
Incorrect idle speed or dirty carburetor Reset idle speed and/ or clean
carburetor
Faulty ignition wires Replace ignition wiring
Prolonged operation at idle Shut engine off during long
idle
Sticking valves or worn valve guide seals Check valve train
Wet Fouling or Oil Deposits
Worn rings and pistons Install new rings and pistons
Excessive cylinder wear Rebore or replace block
Excessive valve guide clearance Worn or loose bearing
Gap Bridged
Deposits in combustion chamber becoming fused to
electrode
Clean combustion chamber of
deposits
Blistered Electrode
Engine overheating Check cooling system
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BASIC ELECTRONIC IGNITION TROUBLE SHOOTING CHARTS
Wrong type of fuel Replace with correct fuel
Loose spark plugs Retighten spark plugs
Over-advanced ignition timing Reset ignition timing see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Pre-Ignition or Melted Electrodes
Incorrect type of fuel Replace with correct fuel
Incorrect ignition timing Reset ignition timing see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Burned valves Replace valves
Engine Overheating Check cooling system
Wrong type of spark plug, too hot Replace with correct spark
plug, see ENGINE
PERFORMANCE
Chipped Insulators
Severe detonation Check for over-advanced
timing or combustion
Improper gapping procedure Re-gap spark plugs
Rust Colored Deposits
Additives in unleaded fuel Try different fuel brand
Water In Combustion Chamber
Blown head gasket or cracked head Repair or replace head or head
gasket
NOTE: Before diagnosing an electronic ignition system, ensure that all wiring
is connected properly between distributor, wiring connector and spark
plugs. Ignition problem will show up either as: Engine Will Not Start or
Engine Runs Rough.
Engine Won't Start
Open circuit between distributor and bulkhead connector Repair circuit
Open circuit between bulkhead connector and ignition
switch
Repair circuit
Open circuit between ignition switch and starter solenoid Repair circuit
Engine Runs Rough
Fuel lines leaking or clogged Tighten fitting, remove
restriction
Initial timing incorrect Reset ignition timing see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Centrifugal advance malfunction Repair distributor advance
Defective spark plugs or wiring Replace plugs or plug wiring
Component Failure
Spark arc-over on cap, rotor or coil Replace cap, rotor or or coil
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BASIC ELECTRONIC IGNITION TROUBLE SHOOTING CHARTS - USING
OSCILLOSCOPE PATTERNS
Defective pick-up coil Replace pick-up coil
Defective ignition coil Replace ignition coil
Defective vacuum unit Replace vacuum unit
Defective control module Replace control module
Firing Voltage Lines are the Same, but Abnormally High
Retarded ignition timing Reset ignition timing, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
section
Fuel mixture too lean Readjust carburetor, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
High resistance in coil wire Replace coil wire
Corrosion in coil tower terminal Clean and/or replace coil
Corrosion in distributor coil terminal Clean and/or replace
distributor cap
Firing Voltage Lines are the Same but Abnormally Low
Fuel mixture too rich Readjust carburetor, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Breaks in coil wire causing arcing Replace coil wire
Cracked coil tower causing arcing Replace coil
Low coil output Replace coil
Low engine compression Determine cause and repair
One or More, But Not All Firing Voltage Lines are Higher Than Others
Carburetor idle mixture not balanced Readjust carburetor, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
EGR valve stuck open Clean and/or replace valve
High resistance in spark plug wires Replace spark plug wires
Cracked or broken spark plug insulator Replace spark plugs
Intake vacuum leak Repair leak
Defective spark plugs Replace spark plugs
Corroded spark plug terminals Replace spark plugs
One or More, But Not All Firing Voltage Lines Are Lower Than Others
Curb idle mixture not balanced Readjust carburetor, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Breaks in plug wires Replace plug wires causing
arcing
Cracked coil tower causing arcing Replace coil
Low compression Determine cause and repair
Corroded spark plugs Replace spark plugs
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BASIC DRIVEABILITY PROBLEMS TROUBLE SHOOTING
Cylinders Not Firing
Cracked distributor cap terminals Replace distributor cap
Shorted spark plug wire Determine cause and repair
Mechanical problem in engine Determine cause and repair
Spark plugs fouled Replace spark plugs
Hard Starting
Binding carburetor linkage Eliminate binding
Binding choke linkage Eliminate binding
Binding choke piston Eliminate binding
Restricted choke vacuum Check vacuum lines for
blockage
Worn or dirty needle valve and seat Clean carburetor, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Float sticking Readjust or replace float see
the ENGINE
PERFORMANCE section
Incorrect choke adjustment Reset choke adjustment see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Defective coil Replace coil
Improper spark plug gap Regap spark plugs
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Detonation
Over-advanced ignition timing Reset ignition timing see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Fuel lines clogged Clean fuel lines
EGR system malfunction Check and repair EGR system
PCV system malfunction Repair PCV system
Vacuum leaks Check and repair vacuum
system
Loose fan belts Tighten or replace fan belts,
see ENGINE
PERFORMANCE
Restricted airflow Remove restriction
Vacuum advance malfunction Check distributor operation
Dieseling
Binding throttle linkage Eliminate blinding
Binding choke linkage or fast idle cam Eliminate binding
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Defective idle solenoid Replace idle solenoid see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Improper base idle speed Reset idle speed, see see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Incorrect idle mixture setting Reset idle mixture, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Faulty Acceleration
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Engine cold and choke too lean Adjust choke and allow
engine to warm-up
Defective coil Replace coil
Faulty Low Speed Operation
Clogged idle transfer slots Clean idle transfer slots, see
FUEL
Restricted idle air bleeds and passages Disassemble and clean
carburetor, see FUEL
Clogged air cleaner Replace air filter
Defective ignition wires Replace ignition wire see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Defective distributor cap Replace distributor cap
Faulty High Speed Operation
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Defective distributor centrifugal advance Replace advance mechanism
Defective distributor vacuum advance Replace advance unit
Incorrect spark plugs or plug gap Check gap and/or replace
spark plugs
Faulty choke operation Check choke and repair as
required
Clogged vacuum passages Remove restrictions
Improper size or clogged main jet Check jet size and clean, see
FUEL
Restricted air cleaner Check filter and replace as
necessary
Defective distributor cap, rotor or coil Replace cap, rotor or coil
Misfire at All Speeds
Defective spark plug wires Replace spark plug wires
Defective distributor cap, rotor, or coil Replace cap, rotor, or coil
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Cracked or broken vacuum hoses Replace vacuum hoses
Vacuum leaks Repair vacuum leaks
Fuel lines clogged Remove restriction
Hesitation
Cracked or broken vacuum Replace vacuum hoses hoses
Vacuum leaks Repair Vacuum leaks
Binding throttle linkage Eliminate binding
Binding choke linkage or fast idle cam Eliminate binding
Improper float setting Readjust float setting, see
FUEL
Cracked or broken ignition wires Replace ignition wires
Rough Idle, Missing or Stalling
Incorrect curb idle or fast idle speed Reset idle speed, see see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Incorrect basic timing Reset ignition timing see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Improper idle mixture adjustment Reset idle mixture, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Improper feedback system operation Check feedback system see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Incorrect spark plug gap Reset spark plug gap, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Moisture in ignition components Dry components
Loose or broken ignition wires Replace ignition wires
Damaged distributor cap or or rotor Replace distributor cap or
rotor
Faulty ignition coil Replace ignition coil
Fuel filter clogged or worn Replace fuel filter
Damaged idle mixture screw Replace idle mixture screw,
see FUEL
Improper fast idle cam adjustment Reset fast idle cam
adjustment, see TUNE- see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Improper EGR valve operation Replace EGR valve
Faulty PCV valve air flow Replace PCV valve
Choke binding or improper choke setting Reset choke or eliminate
binding
Vacuum leak Repair vacuum leak
Improper float bowl fuel level Reset float adjustment, see
FUEL
Clogged air bleed or idle passages Clean carburetor passages, see
FUEL
Clogged or worn air cleaner filter Replace air filter
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Faulty choke vacuum diaphragm Replace diaphragm, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Exhaust manifold heat valve inoperative Replace heat valve
Improper distributor spark advance Check distributor operation
Leaking valves or valve components Check and repair valvetrain
Improper carburetor mounting Remove and remount
carburetor
Excessive play in distributor shaft Replace distributor
Loose or corroded wiring connections Repair or replace as required
Engine Surges
Improper PCV valve airflow Replace PCV valve
Clogged air bleeds Remove restriction
Restricted air cleaner filter Replace air filter
Cracked or broken vacuum hoses Replace vacuum hoses
Cracked or broken ignition wires Replace ignition wires
Vacuum advance malfunction Check unit and replace as
necessary
Defective or fouled spark plugs Replace spark plugs
Ping or Spark Knock
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Distributor centrifugal or vacuum advance malfunction Check operation and replace
as necessary
Carburetor setting too lean Readjust mixture setting, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
Vacuum leak Eliminate vacuum leak
Poor Gasoline Mileage
Cracked or broken vacuum Replace vacuum hoses hoses
Defective ignition wires Replace wires
Incorrect choke setting Readjust setting, see ENGINE
PERFORMANCE
Defective vacuum advance Replace vacuum advance
Binding carburetor power piston Eliminate binding
Dirt in carburetor jets Clean and/or replace jets
Incorrect float adjustment Readjust float setting, see
FUEL
Defective power valve Replace power valve, see
ENGINE PERFORMANCE
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VACUUM PUMP - DIESEL TROUBLE SHOOTING
VACUUM PUMP (DIESEL) TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
MANUAL TRANSMISSION
MANUAL TRANSMISSION TROUBLE SHOOTING
Incorrect idle speed Readjust idle speed
Engine Stalls
Improper float level Readjust float level
Leaking needle valve and seat Replace needle valve and seat
Vacuum leaks Eliminate vacuum leaks
NOTE: Diesel engines mechanical diagnosis is the same as gasoline engines
for items such as noisy valves, bearings, pistons, etc. The following
trouble shooting covers only items pertaining to diesel engines.
Excessive Noise
Loose pump-to-drive assembly screws Tighten screws
Loose tube on pump assembly Tighten tube
Valves not functioning properly Replace valves
Oil Leakage
Loose end plug Tighten end plug
Bad seal crimp Remove and re-crimp
seal
Tech1
Tip: removal of pilot bearings
Tech1
Question: CLUTCH PEDDAL STICKING TO FLOOR
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MANUAL TRANSMISSION/TRANSAXLE TROUBLE SHOOTING
POWERTRAIN
Condition Possible Cause
Noisy In Forward Gears Low gear oil level, Loose bell housing bolts,
Worn bearings or gears
Clunk On Deceleration (FWD Only) Loose engine mounts, Worn inboard CV
joints, Worn differential pinion shaft, Side
gear hub counterbore in case worn oversize
Gear Clash When Shifting Forward Gears Clutch Out Of Adjustment, Shift linkage
damaged or out of adjustment, Gears or
synchronizers damaged, Low gear oil level
Transmission Noisy When Moving (RWD
Only) Quiet In Neutral With Clutch Engaged
Worn rear outputshaft bearing
Gear Rattle Worn bearings, Wrong gear oil, Low gear oil,
Worn gears
Steady Ticking At Idle (Increases With RPM) Broken tooth on gear
Gear Clash When Shifting Forward Gears Worn or broken synchronizers
Loud Whine In Reverse
Normal condition
(1)
Noise When Stepping On Clutch Bad release bearing, Worn pilot bearing
Ticking Or Screeching As Clutch Is Engaged Faulty release bearing, Uneven pressure plate
fingers
Click Or Snap When Clutch Is Engaged Worn clutch fork, Worn or broken front
bearing retainer
Transmission Shifts Hard Clutch not releasing, Shift mechanism binding,
Clutch installed backwards
Will Not Shift Into One Gear, Shifts Into All
Others
Bent shift fork, Worn detent balls
Locked Into Gear, Cannot Shift Clutch adjustment, Worn detent balls
Transmission J umps Out Of Gear Pilot bearing worn, Bent shift fork, Worn gear
teeth or face, Excessive gear train end play,
Worn synchronizers, Missing detent ball
spring, Shift mechanism worn or out of
adjustment, Engine or transmission mount
bolts loose or out of adjustment, Transmission
not aligned
Shift Lever Rattle Worn shift lever or detents, Worn shift forks,
Worn synchronizers sleeve
Shift Lever Hops Under Acceleration Worn engine or transmission mounts
(1)
Most units use spur cut gears in reverse and are noisy
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CLUTCH TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC CLUTCH TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Dr J ake
Question: MECHANIC'S RECOMMEND WHAT VEHICLES? RUN?
Chattering or Grabbing
Incorrect clutch adjustment Adjust clutch
Oil, grease or glaze on facings Disassemble and clean or replace
Loose "U" joint flange See DRIVE AXLES article
Worn input shaft spline Replace input shaft
Binding pressure plate Replace pressure plate
Binding release lever See CLUTCH article
Binding clutch disc hub Replace clutch disc
Unequal pressure plate contact Replace worn/misaligned
components
Loose/bent clutch disc Replace clutch disc
Incorrect transmission alignment Realign transmission
Worn pressure plate, disc or flywheel Replace damaged components
Broken or weak pressure springs Replace pressure plate
Sticking clutch pedal Lubricate clutch pedal & linkage
Incorrect clutch disc facing Replace clutch disc
Engine loose in chassis Tighten all mounting bolts
Failure to Release
Oil or grease on clutch facings Clean or replace clutch clutch
disc
Incorrect release lever or pedal adjustment See CLUTCH article
Worn or broken clutch facings Replace clutch disc
Bent clutch disc or pressure plate Replace damaged components
Clutch disc hub binding on input shaft Clean or replace clutch disc
and/or input shaft
Binding pilot bearing Replace pilot bearing
Sticking release bearing sleeve Replace release bearing and/or
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sleeve
Binding clutch cable See CLUTCH article
Defective clutch master Replace master cylinder
Defective clutch slave Replace slave cylinder
Air in hydraulic system Bleed hydraulic system
Rattling
Weak or broken release lever spring Replace spring and check
alignment
Damaged pressure plate Replace pressure plate
Broken clutch return spring Replace return spring
Worn splines on clutch disc or input shaft Replace clutch disc and/or input
shaft
Worn clutch release bearing Replace release bearing
Dry or worn pilot bearing Lubricate or replace pilot bearing
Unequal release lever contact Align or replace release lever
Incorrect pedal free play Adjust free play
Warped or damaged clutch disc Replace damaged components
Slipping
Pressure springs worn or Release pressure plate
Oily, greasy or worn facings Clean or replace clutch disc
Incorrect clutch alignment Realign clutch assembly
Warped clutch disc or pressure plate Replace damaged components
Binding release levers or clutch pedal Lubricate and/or replace release
components
Squeaking
Worn or damaged release Replace release bearing
Dry or worn pilot or release bearing Lubricate or replace assembly
Pilot bearing turning in crankshaft Replace pilot bearing and/or
crankshaft
Worn input shaft bearing Replace bearing and seal
Incorrect transmission alignment Realign transmission
Dry release fork between pivot Lubricate release fork and pivot
Heavy and/or Stiff Pedal
Sticking release bearing sleeve Replace release bearing and/or
sleeve
Dry or binding clutch pedal hub Lubricate and align components
Floor mat interference with pedal Lay mat flat in proper area
Dry or binding ball/fork pivots Lubricate and align components
Faulty clutch cable Replace clutch cable
Noisy Clutch Pedal
Faulty interlock switch Replace interlock switch
Self-adjuster ratchet noise Lubricate or replace self-adjuster
Speed control interlock switch Lubricate or replace interlock
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DRIVE AXLE - NOISE DIAGNOSIS
Unrel ated Noises
Some driveline trouble symptoms are also common to the engine, transmission, wheel bearings, tires,
and other parts of the vehicle. Ensure cause of trouble actually is in the drive axle before adjusting,
repairing, or replacing any of its parts.
Non-Drive Axle Noises
A few conditions can sound just like drive axle noise and have to be considered in pre-diagnosis. The
4 most common noises are exhaust, tires, CV/universal joints and wheel trim rings.
In certain conditions, the pitch of the exhaust gases may e gear whine. At other times, it may be
mistaken for a wheel bearing rumble.
Tires, especially radial and snow, can have a high-pitched tread whine or roar, similar to gear noise.
Also, some non-standard tires with an unusual tread construction may emit a roar or whine.
Defective CV/universal joints may cause clicking noises or excessive driveline play that can be
improperly diagnosed as drive axle problems.
Trim and moldings also can cause a whistling or whining noise. Ensure none of these components are
causing the noise before disassembling the drive axle.
Gear Noise
switch
Clutch Pedal Sticks Down
Binding clutch cable See CLUTCH article
Springs weak in pressure plate Replace pressure plate
Binding in clutch linkage Lubricate and free linkage
Noisy
Dry release bearing Lubricate or replace release
bearing
Dry or worn pilot bearing Lubricate or replace bearing
Worn input shaft bearing Replace bearing
Transmission Click
Weak springs in pressure Replace pressure plate plate
Release fork loose on ball stud Replace release fork and/or
ball stud
Oil on clutch disc damper Replace clutch disc
Broken spring in slave cylinder Replace slave cylinder
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A "howling" or "whining" noise from the ring and pinion gear can be caused by an improper gear
pattern, gear damage, or improper bearing preload. It can occur at various speeds and driving
conditions, or it can be continuous.
Before disassembling axle to diagnose and correct gear ke sure that tires, exhaust, and vehicle trim
have been checked as possible causes.
Chuckl e
This is a particular rattling noise that sounds like a stick against the spokes of a spinning bicycle
wheel. It occurs while decelerating from 40 MPH and usually can be heard until vehicle comes to a
complete stop. The frequency varies with the speed of the vehicle.
A chuckle that occurs on the driving phase is usually caused ive clearance due to differential gear
wear, or by a damaged tooth on the coast side of the pinion or ring gear. Even a very small tooth nick
or a ridge on the edge of a gear tooth is enough the cause the noise.
This condition can be corrected simply by cleaning the gear tooth nick or ridge with a small grinding
wheel. If either gear is damaged or scored badly, the gear set must be replaced. If metal has broken
loose, the carrier and housing must be cleaned to remove particles that could cause damage.
Knock
This is very similar to a chuckle, though it may be louder, and occur on acceleration or deceleration.
Knock can be caused by a gear tooth that is damaged on the drive side of the ring and pinion gears.
Ring gear bolts that are hitting the carrier casting can cause knock. Knock can also be due to
excessive end play in the axle shafts.
Clunk
Clunk is a metallic noise heard when an automatic transmission is engaged in Reverse or Drive, or
when throttle is applied or released. It is caused by backlash somewhere in the driveline, but not
necessarily in the axle. To determine whether driveline clunk is caused by the axle, check the total
axle backlash as follows:
1. Raise vehicle on a frame or twinpost hoist so that drive wheels are free. Clamp a bar between
axle companion flange and a part of the frame or body so that flange cannot move.
2. On conventional drive axles, lock the left wheel to keep it from turning. On all models, turn the
right wheel slowly until it is felt to be in Drive condition. Hold a chalk marker on side of tire
about 12" from center of wheel. Turn wheel in the opposite direction until it is again felt to be
in Drive condition.
3. Measure the length of the chalk mark, which is the total axle backlash. If backlash is one inch
or less, drive axle is not the source of clunk noise.
Bearing Whine
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Bearing whine is a high-pitched sound similar to a whistle. It is usually caused by malfunctioning
pinion bearings. Pinion bearings operate at drive shaft speed. Roller wheel bearings may whine in a
similar manner if they run completely dry of lubricant. Bearing noise will occur at all driving speeds.
This distinguishes it from gear whine, which usually comes and goes as speed changes.
Bearing Rumble
Bearing rumble sounds like marbles being tumbled. It is usually caused by a malfunctioning wheel
bearing. The lower pitch is because the wheel bearing turns at only about 1/3 of drive shaft speed.
Chatter On Turns
This is a condition where the entire front or rear of vehicle vibrates when vehicle is moving. The
vibration is plainly felt as well as heard. Extra differential thrust washers installed during axle repair
can cause a condition of partial lock-up that creates this chatter.
Axle Shaft Noise
Axle shaft noise is similar to gear noise and pinion bearing whine. Axle shaft bearing noise will
normally distinguish itself from gear noise by occurring in all driving modes (Drive, cruise, coast and
float), and will persist with transmission in Neutral while vehicle is moving at problem speed.
If vehicle displays this noise condition, remove suspect parts, replace wheel seals and install a new
set of bearings. Re-evaluate vehicle for noise before removing any internal components.
Vibration
Vibration is a high-frequency trembling, shaking or grinding condition (felt or heard) that may be
constant or variable in level and can occur during the total operating speed range of the vehicle.
The types of vibrations that can be felt in the vehicle can d into 3 main groups:
Vibrations of various unbalanced rotating parts of the vehicle.
Resonance vibrations of the body and frame structures caused by rotating of unbalanced parts.
Tip-in moans of resonance vibrations from stressed engine or exhaust system mounts or
driveline flexing modes.
DRIVE AXLE - RWD TROUBLE SHOOTING
available in the section(s) you are accessing. For definitions of listed
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DRIVE AXLE (RWD) TROUBLE SHOOTING
FWD AXLE SHAFTS & CV JOINTS TROUBLE SHOOTING
noises or sounds, see DRIVE AXLE - NOISE DIAGNOSIS under
POWERTRAIN.
Knocking or Clunking
Differential Side Gear Clearance Check Clearance
Worn Pinion Shaft Replace Pinion Shaft
Axle Shaft End Play Check End Play
Missing Gear Teeth Check Differential/Replace
Gear
Wrong Axle Backlash Check Backlash
Misaligned Driveline Realign Driveline
Clinking During Engagement
Side Gear Clearance Check Clearance
Ring and Pinion Backlash Check Backlash
Worn/Loose Pinion Shaft Replace Shaft/Bearing
Bad "U" Joint Replace "U" J oint
Sticking Slip Yoke Lube Slip Yoke
Broken Rear Axle Mount Replace Mount
Loose Drive Shaft Flange Check Flange
Click/Chatter On Turns
Differential Side Gear Clearance Check Clearance
Wrong Turn On Plates
(1)
Replace Clutch Plates
Wrong Differential Lubricant
(1)
Change Lubricant
Knock Or Click
Flat Spot on Rear Wheel Bearing Replace Wheel Bearing
Low Vibration At All Speeds
Faulty Wheel Bearing Replace Wheel Bearing
Faulty "U" J oint Replace "U" J oint
Faulty Drive Shaft Balance Drive Shaft
Faulty Companion Flange Replace Flange
Faulty Slip Yoke Flange Replace Flange
(1)
Limited slip differential only.
Tech1
Question: Left front wheel noise
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BASIC FWD AXLE SHAFTS & CV JOINTS TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
STEERING & SUSPENSION
MANUAL STEERING GEAR TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC MANUAL STEERING GEAR TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Grease Leaks CV boot torn or cracked
Clicking Noise on Cornering Damaged outer CV
Clunk Noise on Acceleration Damaged inner CV
Vibration or Shudder on Acceleration Sticking, damaged or worn CV Misalignment
or spring height
Rattle or Chucking Noise in Rack and Pinion
Rack and pinion mounting bracket loose Tighten all mounting bolts
Lack of/or incorrect lubricant Correct as necessary
Steering gear mounting bolts loose Tighten all mounting bolts
Excessive Play
Front wheel bearing improperly adjusted See FRONT SUSPENSION
article
Loose or worn steering linkage See STEERING LINKAGE
article
Loose or worn steering gear shift See MANUAL STEERING
GEAR article
Steering arm loose on gear shaft See MANUAL STEERING
GEAR article
Steering gear housing bolts loose Tighten all mounting bolts
Steering gear adjustment too loose See MANUAL STEERING
GEAR article
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Steering arms loose on knuckles Tighten and check steering
linkage
Rack and pinion mounting loose Tighten all mounting bolts
Rack and pinion out of adjustment See adjustment in STEERING
article
Tie rod end loose Tighten and check steering
linkage
Excessive Pitman shaft-to-ball nut lash Repair as necessary
Poor Returnability
Lack of lubricant in ball joint or linkage Lubricate and service systems
Binding in linkage or ball joints See STEERING LINKAGE
and SUSPENSION article
Improper front end alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
article
Improper tire pressure Inflate to proper pressure
Tie rod binding Inflate to proper pressure
Shaft seal rubbing shaft See STEERING COLUMN
article
Excessive Vertical Motion
Tires, wheels or rotors out of balance Balance tires then check
wheels and rotors
Worn or faulty shock absorbers Check and replace if necessary
Loose tie rod ends or steering Tighten or replace if necessary
Loose or worn wheel bearings See SUSPENSION article
Steering Pulls to One Side
Front tires are different sizes Rotate or replace if necessary
Wheel bearings not adjusted properly See FRONT SUSPENSION
article
Bent or broken suspension components See FRONT SUSPENSION
article
Improper wheel alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
article
Brakes dragging See BRAKES article
Instability
Low or uneven tire pressure Inflate to proper pressure
Loose or worn wheel bearings See FRONT SUSPENSION
article
Loose or worn idler arm bushing See FRONT SUSPENSION
article
Loose or worn strut bushings See FRONT SUSPENSION
article
Incorrect front wheel alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
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POWER STEERING TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC POWER STEERING TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
article
Steering gear not centered See MANUAL STEERING
GEARS article
Springs or shock Check and replace if necessary
Improper cross shaft See MANUAL STEERING
GEARS article
Rattle or Chucking Noise
Pressure hoses touching engine parts Adjust to proper clearance
Loose Pitman shaft Adjust or replace if necessary
Tie rods ends or Pitman arm loose Tighten and check system
Rack and pinion mounts loose Tighten all mounting bolts
Free play in worm gear See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Loose sector shaft or thrust bearing adjustment See POWER STEERING
GEAR
Free play in pot coupling See STEERING COLUMN
article
Worn shaft serrations See STEERING COLUMN
article
Growl in Steering Pump
Excessive pressure in hoses Restricted hoses, see POWER
STEERING GEAR article
Scored pressure plates See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Scored thrust plates or rotor See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Extreme wear of cam ring See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Rattle in Steering Pump
Vanes not installed See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Vanes sticking in rotor See POWER STEERING
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PUMP article
Swish noise in Pump
Defective flow control valve See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Groan in Steering Pump
Air in fluid See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Poor pressure hose connection Tighten and check, replace if
necessary
Squawk When Turning
Damper "O" ring on valve spool cut See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Moan or Whine in Pump
Pump shaft bearing scored Replace bearing and fluid
Air in fluid or fluid level low See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Hose or column grounded Check and replace if
necessary
Cover "O" ring missing or damaged See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Valve cover baffle missing or damaged See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Interference of components in pump See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Loose or poor bracket alignment Correct or replace if necessary
Hissing When Parking
Internal leakage in steering gear Check valved assembly first
Chirp in Steering Pump
Loose or worn power steering belt Adjust or replace if necessary
Buzzing When Not Steering
Noisy pump See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Free play in steering shaft bearing See STEERING COLUMN
article
Bearing loose on shaft serrations See STEERING COLUMN
article
Clicking Noise in Pump
Pump slippers too long See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Broken slipper springs See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Excessive wear or nicked rotors See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Damaged cam contour See POWER STEERING
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PUMP article
Poor Return of Wheel
Wheel rubbing against turn signal See STEERING COLUMN
SWITCHES article
Flange rubbing steering gear adjuster See STEERING COLUMN
article
Tight or frozen steering shaft bearing See STEERING COLUMN
article
Steering gear out of adjustment See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Sticking or plugged spool valve See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Improper front end alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
article
Wheel bearings worn or loose See FRONT SUSPENSION
article
Ties rods or ball joints binding Check and replace if
necessary
Intermediate shaft joints binding See STEERING COLUMN
article
Kinked pressure hoses Correct or replace if necessary
Loose housing head spanner nut See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Damaged valve lever See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Sector shaft adjusted too tight See ADJ USTMENTS in
POWER STEERING GEAR
article
Worm thrust bearing adjusted too tight See ADJ USTMENTS in
POWER STEERING GEAR
article
Reaction ring sticking in cylinder See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Reaction ring sticking in housing head See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Steering pump internal leakage See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Steering gear-to-column misalignment See STEERING COLUMN
article
Lack of lubrication in linkage Service front suspension
Lack of lubrication in ball joints Service front suspension
Increased Effort When Turning Wheel Fast Foaming, Milky Power Steering Fluid, Low Fluid
Level or Low Pressure
High internal pump leakage See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
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Power steering pump belt slipping Adjust or replace if necessary
Low fluid level Check and fill to proper level
Engine idle speed to low Adjust to correct setting
Air in pump fluid system See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Pump output low See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Steering gear malfunctioning See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Wheel Surges or J erks
Low fluid level Check and fill to proper level
Loose fan belt Adjust or replace if necessary
Insufficient pump pressure See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Sticky flow control valve See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Linkage hitting oil pan at full turn Replace bent components
Kick Back or Free Play
Air in pump fluid system See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Worn poppet valve in steering gear See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Excessive over center lash See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Thrust bearing out of adjustment See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Free play in pot coupling See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Steering gear coupling loose on shaft See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Steering disc mounting bolts loose Tighten or replace if
necessary
Coupling loose on worm shaft Tighten or replace if
necessary
Improper sector shaft adjustment See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Excessive worm piston side play See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Damaged valve lever See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Universal joint loose Tighten or replace if
necessary
Defective rotary valve See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
No Power When Parking
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Sticking flow control valve See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Insufficient pump pressure output See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Excessive internal pump leakage See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Excessive internal gear leakage See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Flange rubs against gear adjust plug See STEERING COLUMN
article
Loose pump belt Adjust or replace if necessary
Low fluid level Check and add proper amount
of fluid
Engine idle too low Adjust to correct setting
Steering gear-to-column misaligned See STEERING COLUMN
article
No Power, Left Turn
Left turn reactionseal "O" ring worn See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Left turn reaction seal damaged/missing See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Cylinder head "O" ring damaged See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
No Power, Right Turns
Column pot coupling bottomed See STEERING COLUMN
article
Right turn reaction seal "O" ring worn See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Right turn reaction seal damaged See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Internal leakage through piston end plug See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Internal leakage through side plugs See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Lack of Effort in Turning
Left and/or right reaction seal sticking in cylinder head Replace, see POWER
STEERING GEAR article
Wanders to One Side
Front end alignment incorrect See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
article
Unbalanced steering gear valve See POWER STEERING
GEAR article
Low Pressure Due to Steering Pump
Flow control valve stuck or inoperative See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
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STEERING COLUMN TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC STEERING COLUMN TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Pressure plate not flat against cam ring See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Extreme wear of cam ring Replace and check
adjustments
Scored plate, thrust plate or rotor See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Vanes not installed properly See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Vanes sticking in rotor slots See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Cracked/broken thrust or pressure plate See POWER STEERING
PUMP article
Noise in Steering
Coupling pulled apart See STEERING COLUMNS
article
Column not correctly aligned See STEERING COLUMNS
article
Broken lower joint Replace joint
Horn contact ring not See STEERING COLUMN
article
Bearing not lubricated See STEERING COLUMN
article
Shaft snap ring not properly seated Reseat or replace snap ring
Plastic spherical joint not lubricated See STEERING COLUMN
article
Shroud or housing loose Tighten holding screws
Lock plate retaining ring not seated See STEERING COLUMN
article
Loose sight shield Tighten holding screws
High Steering Shaft Effort
Column assembly misaligned See STEERING COLUMN
article
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SUSPENSION TROUBLE SHOOTING
Improperly installed dust shield Adjust or replace
Tight steering universal joint See STEERING COLUMN
article
High Shift Effort
Column is out of alignment See STEERING COLUMN
article
Improperly installed dust shield Adjust or replace
Seals or bearings not lubricated See STEERING COLUMNS
article
Mounting bracket screws too long Replace with new shorter
screws
Burrs on shift tube Remove burrs or replace tube
Lower bowl bearing assembled wrong See STEERING COLUMN
article
Shift tube bent or broken Replace as necessary
Improper adjustment of shift levers See STEERING COLUMN
article
Improper Trans. Shifting
Sheared shift tube joint Replace as necessary
Sheared lower shaft lever Replace as necessary
Improper shift lever adjustment See STEERING COLUMN
article
Improper gate plate adjustment See STEERING COLUMN
article
Excess Play in Column
Instrument panel bracket bolts loose Tighten bolts and check
bracket
Broken weld nut on jacket See STEERING COLUMN
article
Instrument bracket capsule sheared See STEERING COLUMN
article
Column bracket/jacket bolts loose Tighten bolts and check
bracket
Steering Locks in Gear
Release lever mechanism See STEERING COLUMN
article
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BASIC SUSPENSION TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
Front End Noise
Loose or worn wheel See Wheel Bearing
Adjustment in SUSPENSION
Worn shocks or shock mountings Replace struts or strut
mountings
Worn struts or strut mountings Replace struts or strut
mountings
Loose or worn lower control arm See SUSPENSION
Loose steering gear-to-frame bolts See STEERING
Worn control arm bushings See SUSPENSION
Ball joints not lubricated Lubricate ball joints & see
Ball J oint Checking in
SUSPENSION
Front Wheel Shake, Shimmy, or Vibration
Tires or wheels out of balance Check tire balance
Incorrect wheel alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Drive shaft unbalanced Check drive shaft balance
Loose or worn wheel bearings See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Loose or worn tie rod ends See SUSPENSION
Worn upper ball joints See Ball J oint Checking in
SUSPENSION
Worn shock absorbers Replace shock absorbers
Worn strut bushings Replace strut bushings
Car Pulls to One Side
Mismatched or uneven tires Check tire condition
Broken or sagging springs See SUSPENSION
Loose or worn strut bushings See SUSPENSION
Improper wheel alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Improper rear axle alignment Check rear axle alignment
Power steering gear unbalanced See STEERING
Front brakes dragging See BRAKES
Abnormal Tire Wear
Unbalanced tires Check tire balance & rotation
Sagging or broken springs See SUSPENSION
Incorrect front end alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Faulty shock absorbers Replace chock absorbers
Scuffed Tires
Toe-In incorrect See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Suspension arm bent or twisted See appropriate
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WHEEL ALIGNMENT TROUBLE SHOOTING
BASIC WHEEL ALIGNMENT TROUBLE SHOOTING CHART
SUSPENSION article
Springs Bottom or Sag
Bent or broken springs See SUSPENSION
Leaking or worn shock absorbers Replace shock absorbers
Frame misalignment Check frame for damage
Spring Noises
Loose "U" Bolts See SUSPENSION
Loose or worn bushings See SUSPENSION
Worn or missing interliners See SUSPENSION
Shock Absorber Noise
Loose shock mountings Check & tighten mountings
Worn bushings Replace bushings
Air in system Bleed air from system
Undercoating on shocks Remove undercoating
Car Leans or Sways on Corners
Loose stabilizer bar See SUSPENSION
Faulty shocks or mountings Replace shocks or mountings
Broken or sagging springs See SUSPENSION
Shock Absorbers Leaking
Worn seals or reservoir tube crimped See SUSPENSION
Broken Springs
Loose "U" bolts See SUSPENSION
Inoperative shock absorbers Replace shock absorbers
Premature Tire Wear
Improper tire inflation Check tire pressure
Front alignment out of tolerance See ALIGNMENT SPECS in
WHEEL ALIGNMENT
section
Suspension components worn See SUSPENSION section
Steering system components worn See STEERING section
Improper standing height See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
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Uneven or sagging springs See SUSPENSION section
Bent wheel See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Improper torsion bar adjustment See SUSPENSION section
Loose or worn wheel bearings See WHEEL BEARING ADJ .
in SUSPENSION section
Worn or defective shock Replace shock absorbers
Tires out of balance Check tire balance
Pulls to One Side
Brake dragging See BRAKE section
Mismatched tires See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Broken or sagging spring See SUSPENSION section
Broken torsion bar See SUSPENSION section
Power steering valve not centered See STEERING section
Front alignment out of tolerance See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
section
Defective wheel bearing See WHEEL BEARINGS in
SUSPENSION section
Uneven sway bar links See SUSPENSION section
Frame bent Check for frame damage
Steering system bushing worn See STEERING section
Hard Steering
Idler arm bushing too tight See STEERING LINKAGE in
STEERING section
Ball joint tight or seized See SUSPENSION section
Steering linkage too tight See STEERING LINKAGE in
STEERING section
Power steering fluid low Add proper amount of fluid
Power steering drive belt loose See STEERING section
Power steering pump defective See STEERING section
Steering gear out of adjustment See STEERING section
Incorrect wheel alignment See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Damaged steering gear See STEERING section
Damaged suspension See SUSPENSION section
Bent steering knuckle or supports See SUSPENSION section
Vehicle "Wanders"
Strut rod or control arm bushing worn See SUSPENSION section
Loose or worn wheel bearings See WHEEL BEARINGS in
SUSPENSION section
Stabilizer bar missing or defective See SUSPENSION section
Wheel alignment out of tolerance See Adjustment in WHEEL
ALIGNMENT section
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2008 Mitchell Repair Information Co., LLC.
Broken spring See SUSPENSION section
Defective shock absorber Replace shock absorbers
Worn steering & suspension components See SUSPENSION section
Front End Shimmy
Tire out of balance/round Check tire balance
Excessive wheel runout See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
Insufficient or improper caster See WHEEL ALIGNMENT
section
Worn suspension or steering components See SUSPENSION section
Defective shock absorbers Replace shock absorber
Wheel bearings worn or loose See WHEEL BEARING ADJ .
in SUSPENSION section
Power steering reaction Bracket loose See STEERING section
Steering gear box (rack) mounting loose See STEERING section
Steering gear adjustment loose See STEERING section
Worn spherical joints See SUSPENSION section
Toe-In Not Adjustable
Lower control arm bent See SUSPENSION section
Frame bent Check frame for damage
Camber Not Adjustable
Control arm bent See SUSPENSION section
Frame bent Check frame for damage
Hub & bearing not seated properly See SUSPENSION section
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