Torque Those Lug Nuts!

We keep hearing that we need to “torque those lug nuts”  But Why?

In my years of service as an Automotive Professional, I have seen too many reasons as to why you should torque those lug nuts.  I’ve seen wheels come off, brakes damaged, broken/stripped lug nuts, bolts and studs, etc., and I have seen this repeatedly by Technicians as well as the Do-It-Your-Selfers for one simple reason - they don’t properly torque the Lug Nuts on their vehicle…

Applied Auto Forum

If you are looking for a One-Stop place to discuss the automotive industry, then go to the Applied Auto Forum. 

URL:  http://appliedauto.mypunbb.com

You can get current automotive news, articles, repair trends, repair tips, fundamentals, diagnostic procedures, DTC codes, consumer help, race events and results, items and parts for sale, looking for a job or business opportunities, etc.

This is a New forum and is targeted for Automotive Professionals as a placed to discuss various automotive topics on a level that we professionals are accustomed to.  Although, there are areas for discussions, assistance, and general viewing for fellow automotive customers and enthusiasts.

Although this forum is in the start-up phase, I welcome all of you to Join New Applied Auto Forum and stay up with the auto industry. 

Yours truly, forum Host and fellow Veteran Automotive Professional,

Jack Miller

Cold Automatic Transmission Issues

Based on my experience, I would say that close to 40%, maybe more, of temperature related transmission issues are due to torque converter drain back, and loose valve body bolts (meaning not properly torqued to spec.).  Torque converter drain back is commonly due to a poor trans pick-up filter.  But also can be caused by loose valve body bolts (not just the main bolts, but the bolts that retain the two halves as well).  Loose valve body bolts not only allow drain-back of trans fluid, but also allows torsional twist, binding and deformation of the valve body which can cause sticking or binding valves – especially when cold.  However, after the vehicle is warmed up, the fluid fills up the torque converter and trans and operates normally. 

Do Car Companies Really Care About Me?

The above title is a question that customers ask themselves all the time, “Do car companies really care about me?”  The simple answer is Yes!  But a better question is – Do they hear you, known as the “customer’s voice?”  Let’s first look at several ways that customers talk to manufacturers in “Manufacturer Talk” so-to-speak…

NHTSA Top 5 Complaint Analysis

NHTSA (National Highway Transportation Safety Administration) receives complaints when a dealer or manufacturer resolution for their vehicle has not been reached.  In the past, vehicle improvements have been based on production and warranty data, and not a huge focus on the “Customer Voice.”  Why would a manufacturer not want to hear the customer voice? 

Voltage Loss or Voltage Drop, That Is The Question?

We hear the terms “Voltage Loss” and “Voltage Drop” test frequently in the Automotive industry.  But most refer to it as what’s is really a Voltage “Drop” test.  This is incorrect, these are two separate test with two separate purposes – however, many-times the same failure result can be determined with both test.  So what is the difference between the two test, and why do we perform them?

Well, it’s actually what it states:

That Amazing Planetary Gear Set!

How many people really understand a Planetary Gear set, how it works, it’s use, and versatility in the market place?  The planetary gear set is one of the most amazing inventions used in our industrial society!  It’s use is all around us and we don’t even realize it.  Without it, we wouldn’t have all the luxuries and manufacturing processes that we have today…

Well, what is the darn thing?

Powdered Metal Use In Automatic Transmissions

OK Transmission Techies, remember the old days when you disassembled a clutch pack or planetary gear set and sliced up your hands on a clutch pack housing, disc, or planetary carrier assembly?  Many of these components were stamped, cast or machined steel and commonly lacked the deburing and finishing processes needed in order to reduce process costs.  Well those days are diminishing…  Why?

Is It Leather?

How many times have you got into a vehicle and looked at the shift boot and said to yourself “is it leather?”  There have been many design and process changes from real sewn leather, to Rubber.  This article will explain why many manufacturers are going to rubber Shift Boots as well as many other components.

Welcome To Applied Auto!

Welcome to Applied Auto.  I will be bringing you Various Automotive articles, repair tips, new technology, news, resource links and much more.  Visit often to see what’s new in the world of automotive…

- Jack Miller (Click to View Business Card)