Larry Carley, Author at Counterman Magazine - Page 9 of 33
Automotive Fuel Pumps Continue To Evolve

Back in the early days of the automobile, no pump was needed because gravity allowed fuel to flow from a fuel tank mounted inside the vehicle to the carburetor.

Motor Oil: How To Choose The ‘Right’ Oil

To keep up with the lubrication requirements of all the different vehicle manufacturers, oil companies have had to expand their product lines to include new ultra-low, multi-viscosity, fuel-saving oils as well as products with special additive packages for specific engine applications.

Focus On Brake Friction For Safety

Frequent stop-and-go city driving in heavy traffic may wear out a set of pads in as little as 30,000 to 40,000 miles – or even faster depending on how aggressively the driver uses their brakes, writes Larry Carley.

Bench Test Alternator to Troubleshoot

Loose, corroded or damaged wiring terminals at the back of the alternator are common causes of charging problems, writes Larry Carley.

Alternator-bench-testing
Tough Winters Put Strain On Chassis Parts

For those who live in snowbelt states, winter driving can take a real toll on chassis parts. Potholes are the main culprit, but road salt and slush are contributing factors, too. The impact forces created by hitting potholes really pounds away at the ball joints, control arm bushings, tie rod ends and steering links. Chassis

What Cabin Air Filters Do

The cabin air filter is designed to do two things: to improve the quality of the air entering the passenger compartment through the heater and A/C system, and keep dirt, debris, bugs, leaves, etc. out of the HVAC (Heating Ventilation & Air Conditioning) evaporator and heater core.

Gasket Scraper: Proper Tool for Removing Gaskets

Aluminum is much softer than cast iron and much easier to scratch, nick and gouge. Any imperfections that are left on the sealing surface of aluminum engine parts may prevent a new gasket from sealing properly, creating a potential path that may allow coolant, oil, vacuum or compression to leak.

Engine Sensors Keep Things In Check

Most sensors produce a digital voltage signal that corresponds to the function they are monitoring.

Replacing Both Shafts On High-Mileage Vehicle With Bad CV Joint Or Boot

The No. 1 of premature CV joint failure is usually a torn, cracked or leaking boot.

All Ceramic Brake Pads Are Not Created Equal

Price is often a factor in making a buying decision, but so is performance, brand recognition, reputation and warranty. Availability also can make or break a sale.

Fuel Pumps Come In Different Varieties

Most original equipment electric fuel pumps are mounted inside the fuel tank. Submerging the pump in gasoline quiets the pump and allows the fuel to cool and lubricate the pump. This is very important because most electric fuel pumps spin at high speed (5,000 to 7,000 RPM or higher).

Late-Model Vehicles Place High Demands On Batteries

Late-model vehicles are loaded with electronics that place increased demands on the battery and charging system.