Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Purpose of O2 Sensors in Cars
Oxygen sensors, commonly called O2 sensors, are a vital component in maximizing fuel efficiency in vehicles.
Name
An oxygen molecule consists of two atoms of oxygen bound together. Thus, O2 ers to the chemical formula for pure oxygen.
Task
O2 sensors monitor how much unburned oxygen is present in the exhaust from an automobile engine. The amount of oxygen indicates how efficiently the engine is burning fuel.
Effect
The cars computer uses readings from the oxygen sensor to adjust the mixture of air and fuel in the engines combustion chambers for maximum efficiency.
Location
There is an O2 sensor inside the exhaust manifold. Vehicles produced after 1995 also have a "downstream" sensor to measure the exhaust as it leaves the catalytic converter, to ensure that the converter is working properly, too.
Malfunction
Symptoms of a malfunctioning O2 sensor include declining gas mileage, rough idling and engine surges or hesitation. A vehicles "check engine" light will often come one.
Tuesday, December 10, 2013
Purpose of a Transmission Modulator
The purpose of a transmission modulator is to decide when a transmission shift should occur. It also informs the transmission of the type of load being placed on it. Pressure is regulated by the transmission modulator as well, allowing the transmission to function smoothly.
Problems
There are several problems that can occur with a transmission modulator, most of which happen naturally over a period of time. The modulators diaphragm is subject to rupturing, and leaks are known to occur as well. These types of problems in a modulator cause driving issues and may even cause the transmission to fail altogether.
Inspect
Often the first thing youll want to inspect is the line leading to the transmission modulator. If transmission fluid is visible once you disconnect the line, this indicates a leaking diaphragm. The modulator can also be checked for leaks directly using a handheld vacuum pump.
Remove
A transmission modulator can be removed from the transmission so it can be replaced. Before pulling the modulator from its housing unit, the retaining bolt and clamp will have to be untightened first. Because the actuating pin could fall when the modulator is being pulled out, special care should be taken to avoid losing it.
Wednesday, November 6, 2013
Purpose of Exhaust Pipes
A variety of parts and components make up a cars exhaust system. The exhaust system expels waste gases and reduces noise during the process. An exhaust pipe is part of the exhaust system.
Function
The exhaust pipe connects parts of the exhaust system together to allow gases to flow through the sysem. Most exhaust pipes connect the exhaust manifold to the muffler units. The exhaust pipe of a newer engine also connects to the catalytic converter.
Identification
Exhaust pipes deal with high temperature gases so are usually made of stainless steel although zinc or aluminum plated steel are also possible. Rough edges, bends and kinks slow down the exhaust system so high performance exhaust pipes are smooth inside with smooth curves and few bends.
Classification
Exhaust pipes are classified by diameter. Two-inch diameters are the common width of street cars, while faster cars use exhaust pipes with a 3-inch diameter. A wider exhaust pipe leads to better performance because exhaust gas moves faster.