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Engine knock – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)

Description An engine exhibits a knocking noise. During a cylinder power balance test, the noise abates. Technician A says the noise is likely worn big-end bearings on the connecting rod. Technician B says the noise is likely piston slap. Who is correct?More ASE...

“Can I borrow a…”

I recall being very alarmed at how far the door spring traveled. As a teenager in my first job at a dealer, I was working on a small S-10 truck that needed door hinge pin bushings. I levered that door spring out of its perch with a slotted screwdriver like a goon and...

A visit to Elite JDM (VIDEO)

Description Recently we took a trip to Dorman Proving Grounds manager Nick D'Alessio’s personal shop, Elite JDM. While we were there, we shot some videos about some fascinating things we found in his shop. We decided to put those four videos together in a playlist for...

Oil leak – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)

Description Which of the following is LEAST LIKELY to cause an oil leak?A) Torn valve cover gasket B) Worn wrist pin bushings C) Worn rear main seal D) Worn piston ringsMore ASE Practice Questions

Low-mileage JDM automatics: Worthwhile or worthless? (VIDEO)

Description Nick and Lemmy check out a flex plate from an imported Japanese automatic transmission with very few miles under its belt. Even so, Nick explains why nobody really wants these transmissions or parts… and why many of them end up in the scrapyard.

Detroit geology: all about Fordite, an automotive gemstone

Detroit geology: all about Fordite, an automotive gemstone

Ever heard of Fordite? Fordite, often called Detroit agate or motor agate, isn’t a rock at all. In fact, it has nothing at all to do with geology—but it’s not very different than a sedimentary rock. Unlike sedimentary formations, Fordite is not composed of layers of...
Can ICE vehicles be outlawed?

Can ICE vehicles be outlawed?

Since I was small, one of the things I’ve found marvelous about cars in America is the concept that old cars are always allowed. By this, I mean that once a car rolls off the assembly line in the USA, its owner can use it to traverse the roads of the nation and...
You don’t need a moonroof, either.

You don’t need a moonroof, either.

Drew Magary recently said I don’t need a sunroof. OK, Magary, I’ll take your bait. You’re right, but you’re also totally wrong, buck-o. I’ll explain how in just a moment. The premise of the article is correct: you definitely do not want a...
Are daytime running lights really a bad idea?

Are daytime running lights really a bad idea?

I’ve kind of had it with headlights. I mean, headlights are grand. Heck, I need them more than ever; I’m no spring chicken. Driving at night has become harder for me as my vision has deteriorated. However, other drivers operating their headlights incorrectly or...
150+ of the truly best songs about cars, trucks and driving

150+ of the truly best songs about cars, trucks and driving

You can read our methodology below, or click here to skip right to the playlist. Wrenching on cars and listening to music go hand in hand. Any work with your hands sure goes a lot faster and easier when you’ve got good tunes in the background. It gives you a little...