Counterman Staff, Author at Counterman Magazine - Page 540 of 556
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I have a ’99 mustang. I floor the gas and it gets a high RPM, but after a bit the heater will be blowing cold air. What could be the problem?

There are many and various options for the solution to this problem.  However, some of those fixes may be as simple as a radiator cap or a belt tensioner slipping. Another problem may be the water pump impellers are wore down. Also, if you are accelerating at a high rate, the vacuum may be leaving

What do you think about young counterman who just started out and knows nothing about parts or cars? Is there any hope for someone like me?

As a long time member of the auto parts community, I can tell you that if you carry on with the correct attitude there is hope for you. I started, as everyone did, not knowing anything, if little, about cars. We all have to learn somewhere and I am certain if you show a willingness

What makes an engine a HEMI?

In a HEMI engine, the top of the combustion chamber is hemispherical.  The combustion area in the head is shaped like half of a sphere, unlike most engines where the head has small indentations for the combustion chamber. An engine like this is said to have “hemispherical heads.” In a HEMI head, the spark plug

What is the number one reason that a ’96 Lincoln Town Car 4.6L won’t start?

In all the research there is no number one reason. We also could use more symptoms of the problem. But, the general rule of combustion is, if it will not start it is either fuel or fire. If you are getting fuel and the engine is spinning then there is an electrical problem that most

What Should You Know When Selling or Ordering Rotors?

By Andrew Markel, editor, Brake & Front End magazine It’s tough for a parts professional to know what they are getting when they buy a rotor. Factors such as brand, quality control and reputation among technicians should be considered when making a choice. If the technician or counterpro is only going on the price on

The Future of Cool

Competition between U.S., Europe Heating Up Over Next Cabin Cooling System Refrigerant

Value-Grade Hubs Cost More In The Long Run

Counterman magazine talked recently to Neil Hogan, SKF Product Manager, Vehicle Service Market. Neil is an ASE Certified Master Technician with more than 30 years in the automotive industry. In light of the economic situation, it’s a safe bet that consumers will try and save money on car maintenance. This will likely mean greater willingness to

If It’s Not A Good Time, Tell Us

I read with interest Mitch Schneider’s comments in COM-PEN-EEEEEEE! (January, 2009). In my years in the parts business, I have always stressed the importance of empathy when striving to meet the needs of the customer. Mitch apparently doesn’t appreciate Monday morning sales calls. I have other customers who don’t appreciate Friday afternoon sales calls. Generally

Why does Dodge refer to some of their engines as “magnum” engines?

The Magnum was first used in 1992 for the redesigned/updated 318cid engine and in 1993 on the 360cid engine. The Magnum designation means updated cylinder heads, intake manifolds and fuel injection (so it could meet 1994/1996 emissions/OBDII standards). The Magnum name was also used on the 239cid V6 that was basically a 318 with two

I have a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix with a 3.8.

I have a 2001 Pontiac Grand Prix with a 3.8. It currently has 66,000 miles on it. At 60,000 miles I noticed a slight miss. I checked the spark plugs and the insulation was cracked on #5 plug only. Now at 66,000 miles, I noticed the same type of miss. #5 plug was cracked again. This time I replaced all the plugs and plug wires. Is there something else causing just this plug to crack??

My truck sat for a year and a half. I had to replace the fuel pump and inline filter. When it starts up, it sounds like a train trying to take off. What else could it be?

Recently a gentleman was in the store and had the same problem. He first took the spark plugs out and filled them with Marvel Mystery Oil. He let them soak overnight and then he turned the motor over the next morning to squirt the fluid out of the engine and replaced the spark plugs. This

Is universal antifreeze really universal?

Universal anti-freeze in general terms is only supposed to be used for topping off a system, to my knowledge. Always best to use what is recommended by the car manufacturer. Read everything on the label on any product you are recommending, as well as err on the side of caution. Call the manufacturer if you