Tools Archives - Page 4 of 6 - Counterman Magazine
On my 98 Taurus, I only get strong air thru the defrost vents. Very weak thru the floor and top ones. My mechanic says he can’t figure out why. Any answer except find a different mechanic?

Your HVAC has gone into "default" mode, which sends all output to the defroster if the switching controls fail for any reason. This is done to make sure the car is safe to drive, you can see out the windshield. First check for a vacuum leak to the HVAC controls or vacuum motors. Jim O’Neill

What would cause oil pressure gauge to stay pegged all the way over after installing a new oil pressure switch

I would recommend that you re-check the application for that new switch (light only, light + gauge, gauge only) Whatever is causing it, it is a short to ground in the circuit to the sender when the gauge goes to the top of the range immediately upon KOEO (key on engine off). Jim O’Neill Chino

Why am I having to use my phone to retrieve information?

Our system is so slow, and even when I get the information needed the customer and myself are frustrated with the wait and poor quality of information in our system. It seems to keep people coming back we should be able to help them to find parts and support with out using an outside source?

I have a customer with a 2004 Hyunda sonata 4cyl. It will not go over 30 mph at around 3000 rpm.

I have a customer with a 2004 Hyunda sonata 4cyl. It will not go over 30 mph at around 3000 rpm. If you push it it will choke out and die, however you can “red line” it in park with no problem. They have replaced, oxygen sensors, tps, Mass air flow and the catalitic converter. It is a Non Serviceable fuel filter. The only trouble code that comes up is a system to lean bank 1. Any Ideas, there are curently getting a fuel pressure test.

I have a 2003 Dodge Dakota, 3.9, auto, 2wd. The check engine light is on and when I scan it it says I have a “check sum error.”

I have a 2003 Dodge Dakota, 3.9, auto, 2wd. The check engine light is on and when I scan it it says I have a “check sum error.” The light will not stay off after resetting. Just what the heck is a check sum error and what does it have to do with my truck?

I have a 2008 saturn vue with a 2.4l engine that is losing anti freeze cant see any leaks when pressure test. The oil is not over full and it does not seam to be burning it either.

Perform a "Block Test" with the special Block Check tool and fluid to determine if the cylinder head gasket is leaking hydrocarbons into the cooling system and fluid into the cylinders. This test can also be performed with a emissions analyzer, holding the probe over the open radiator to detect hydrocarbons. Jim O’Neill Chino Autotech

I have a ’97 Chevy 1500 with a 5.0l. When I’m driving, the truck pulls to the right.

I have a ’97 Chevy 1500 with a 5.0l. When I’m driving, the truck pulls to the right. I have checked the control arm and ball joints and everything is ok but, it still pulls to the right.

I have a 2000 Ford Ranger 2.5 and the A/C vent loses air at the vents and it goes to the defrost when you take off. When you stop it goes back to the vents? Any ideas?

You have an intake vacuum leak somewhere. Check the engine compartment with the engine idling. Look for a loose or broken vacuum hose or fitting off the intake plenum area and listen for a possible slight hissing sound. Fix the vacuum leak and your vent-switching problem will go away. Jim O’Neill Chino Autotech Inc.

How do I remove the headlight lens cover from a 2005 Ford Escape to put on a marker bulb?

Sorry, but I am pretty sure the bumper cover must be removed before you can unbolt and remove the headlight assembly. Jim O’Neill Chino Autotech Inc. The lens cover does not come off. It is sealed to the housing. You should see a couple of screws or some vertical slide clips to remove it. Matthew

I have a ’71 Dodge Charger with the 318 engine and single points. I would like to convert to electronic ignition system. Do I need the ignition module or just the conversion kit?

The electronic conversion kit is all you will need. It should bolt in place of the points and everything else will be the same as it is now.  Gerald Wheelus Edgewood Parts Plus

I have a 2001 Olsmobile Alero 3.4 V6. The heater only blows hot air when under acceleration or cruising at highway speed.

I have a 2001 Olsmobile Alero 3.4 V6. The heater only blows hot air when under acceleration or cruising at highway speed. Coolant is full and circulating, and there are no problems with engine temperature. The thermostat was recently replaced because the previous owner took it out for some reason. Now the engine is at the correct operating temperature but the heat is sporadic. Suggestions? Could this be a symptom of a heater valve failing? Possible clogged (or clogging) heater core? Why would it only work sometimes?

I have a 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. My front tires rub the inside of the fender when I turn the wheels sharply. I’ve had the front suspension looked at and was told everything was fine. Any suggestions?

I have a 1988 Chevrolet Caprice. My front tires rub the inside of the fender when I turn the wheels sharply. I’ve had the front suspension looked at and was told everything was fine. Any suggestions?