Electrical and Components

Some original equipment alternators made in recent years feature a “floating stator” that is more sensitive to proper handling than previous designs. Previously, the stator — the set of windings that surround the rotor — in most alternator designs, is press-fitted or in a tight tolerance. In recent years, however, some manufacturers have chosen to…

If serial data buses did not exist, a wiring harness would have to be five times its normal size and use twice as many sensors to deliver the same level of functionality and safety we see in the modern vehicle. For example, take a brake pedal sensor. On a modern vehicle, the position of the…

Symptoms Water pump has missing or broken teeth, or sprocket falls off the shaft. Probable Cause of Failure Misalignment or damage of the tensioner, guide or chain. Corrective Action Visual inspection is required to verify the correct alignment of chain tensioner and guide. Inspect for broken, cracked or missing guide material as well. It is…

Watching an oxygen sensor output on an oscilloscope is like watching a sporting event on television. You get to see the action, but can do nothing about it as it happens. Sometimes you miss the action and want an instant replay. It was a bad call. You saw the interference. If the referee didn’t see…

Like most other systems on late-model vehicles, charging systems have become smarter and more complex. Today’s computer-controlled charging systems tailor the charging rate not only to the electrical demands on the battery and alternator, but also to changing driving conditions. That makes diagnosis much more difficult when something goes wrong. Alternators have one of the…

Watch an explanation of the technological side of converting an analog MAF sensor signal to a digital signal as well as the differences between 8 Bit and 10 Bit signals.      

Cleaning the battery contact posts is key when it comes to getting the most out of a vehicle’s electrical system. A clean, corrosion free battery leads to easier starting, improved current flow, and longer battery life.

The Voltage Drop test is a powerful tool for diagnosing fuel pump problems. Here are a few guidelines for conducting a voltage drop test safely and correctly.

High voltage injector drivers work differently than those used in sequential injection systems. They use the same principle used to power diesel injectors use to produce high voltage. Watch to learn more.

High voltage protection equipment can be the difference between a safe and efficient repair and a serious shock. Check the integrity of your equipment regularly.