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Diagnosing steering system noises

Quiet cars create happy customers

Screeching, whining, grinding and popping — all types of noises associated with the steering system! Unusual noises the result of steering system operation can sometimes be challenging to diagnose. In this article, we list a host of potential noise sources, with regard to steering column, power steering pump, steering linkage and related components that can contribute to the generation of unwanted and disconcerting noises.

By Mike Mavrigian

The most common cause for power steering noise is low power steering fluid level. The resulting noise will likely be a whining that is heard when turning the steering wheel. A high-pitched or “screeching” noise is usually caused by a worn or misadjusted power steering drive belt.

A grinding or popping noise may be caused by worn or damaged upper strut bearings, which may be heard when turning the wheels. This can often be misdiagnosed as a steering system issue.

Wrong P/S fluid

In the “good old days,” it was common for ATF to be used in power steering pump systems. Today, it is imperative to use only the specific power steering fluid recommended by the vehicle manufacturer. Using the wrong type of fluid can create varied problems from aeration to pump seal damage. Using a “generic” “power steering fluid” that claims to be compatible for “all” systems does not guarantee proper operation. If in doubt, always check the service or owner’s manual for the correct type of fluid. Specific power steering fluids may be mineral based or synthetic, depending on application.

Listed here is a guideline of the fluids recommended by various auto makers. Always check, as this can vary depending on the specific model and year.

Acura Audi

BMW

Chrysler

Daewoo Dodge Sprinter Ford/Lincoln/ Mercury GM Honda Hyundai Jaguar Jeep Honda P/S fluid Pentosin CHF 7.1, CHF 11S or CHF 202, depending on year. Pentosin CHF 7.1 or CHF 11S, depending on year P/S fluid (pre-1998) or ATF+4 1998 and later) or Pentosin CHF 11S Dexron II or III Pentosin CHF 11S Mercon ATF

P/S fluid Honda P/S fluid P/S fluid 3 or Dexron II Pentosin CHF 11S or Dexron III WK Hydraulic, ATF+4 or P/S fluid (depending on model) Dexron III

Always take the time to determine the correct type of power steering fluid for a specific make/ model/year. Never assume that any fluid that is labeled as “for all applications” is correct. If in doubt, ask the local car dealer’s service or parts department for their recommendation.

Never mix power steering fluid types. If the wrong fluid has been introduced, flush the system, add the correct fluid and bleed (“burp”) air from the system. This is generally done by turning the steering lock to lock slowly several times, but always check with the service manual for the vehicle at hand.

Power steering hoses

When power steering hard lines must be replaced, be aware that some bargain-brand lines may be made with a thinner wall than OE lines, which can result in harmonics to be transferred through the lines, creating a whine or high-pitched noise. Also, power steering pressure hoses vibrate under high pressure.

If the hoses contact the body, frame or engine, this can easily result in a “mystery” noise. Make sure that hose contact is avoided by relocating hoses and making sure that any clamps or hold-down clips are not missing.

Evidence of power steering fluid foaming and noise may be caused by a faulty power steering return hose (hose might be loose, brittle, cracked, damaged with pinholes, etc.), which may be allowing air to be sucked into the system.

If power steering fluid is contaminated, the system should be flushed. If foamy, the system needs to be bled. If burnt-smelling, it may be time for a new pump, but a flush and refill is worth a try.

Run the engine to normal operating temperature, and then shut off the engine. Gently pressurize the power steering pump reservoir with no more than 8 psi air pressure, and inspect the return hose for leaks. Replace the damaged return hose and bleed the system.

Loose calipers can cause a clicking noise during turns. Worn/damaged or improperly installed hub bearings can cause grinding or clicking noises on the outer hub during a turn. For example, the left hub making a noise during a right-hand turn.

Loose calipers

If a customer complains of a noise when turning the steering wheel right or left, check the brake calipers and caliper brackets.

If bolts are loose or missing, this may be the culprit.

CV joints

If the customer complains of a clicking noise during tight slow turns (turning into a driveway, making a turn from a stop sign, etc.), and the vehicle features front-wheeldrive, immediately suspect worn/dry CV joints. If the condition is ignored, total CV joint failure will occur, resulting in a no-drive situation.

Consider hubs

If the customer complains of a humming, rumbling or growling noise that increases as the steering wheel is turned, consider the front hubs. If it’s a hub issue, this may be accompanied by a steering wheel vibration during turns, and excessive play in the steering wheel, and a possible pull to one side during braking.

Worn or dried-out CV joints will result in a clicking noise during slow turns.

Power steering pump issues

If the power steering pump is noisy, accompanied by a lack of power assist, air is likely trapped in the system. Perform a basic system inspection for hose condition, fluid level and fluid condition.

If the fluid appears burnt or contaminated, flush the system. Most systems can be bled of air by first filling the reservoir to the “cold” mark. With the vehicle raised off the ground and with the engine off, slowly turn the steering wheel to full lock in one direction and wait for five seconds. Then slowly turn to full lock in the opposite direction and wait five seconds. Repeat this cycle 15 to 20 times, regularly checking fluid level as you proceed. Continue until the fluid looks normal and no foaming is evident.

Some systems may be difficult to bleed (some Fords, for example). If a whine or moan noise is evident at the pump, air is in the system. A Devac vacuum tool may be used to address problem bleed issues. Fill the pump reservoir and insert the vacuum tool’s rubber stopper into the reservoir fill neck. With the engine running at idle, apply 15 inches of vacuum to the reservoir. Cycle the steering wheel from full lock to lock every 30 seconds for about five minutes. Be sure to maintain 15 inches of vacuum during the operation.

Shot the engine off, release vacuum and remove the vacuum tool. Top off the fluid and reinstall the reservoir cap/dipstick. Re-start the engine and cycle the steering wheel, checking for leaks at all hose/line connections. It may be necessary to repeat this process several times in the case of a stubborn air pocket.

Pump misdiagnosis

Don’t automatically assume that a noise is caused by the power steering pump. A noise that seems to be coming from the power steering pump might not be a pump issue, as it might be created by another source. According to Cardone, examples are 1992-1993 Chevy and GMC trucks and Oldsmobile Bravada vehicles equipped with a 4.3L, 5.0L or 5.7L engine. A whining noise may appear to be at the pump, when the noise may actually be the result of a failed bearing in the alternator.

1. Isolate the power steering pump from the alternator by removing the existing drive belt and installing a belt part numbered for a 1993-1994 Camaro or Firebird (this allows you to remove the power steering pump from the drive system). 2. Run the engine (do not drive the vehicle) and listen for the noise. If the noise is gone, then the problem points at the power steering pump. If the noise remains, proceed to diagnose the remaining driven components including the alternator. 3. Once the faulty component has been replaced, install the correct drive belt and confirm the repair.

GM rack and pinion noise

As noted by Cardone, complaints related to a clunking noise during low speed turns have been noted on 2004-2010 Chevy Malibu, Pontiac G6 and Saturn Aura models. The manual rack and pinion is part of the EPS (electronic power steering system). EPS systems provide assist only when needed, so the driver feels when the motor engages/

disengages for assist-on/assist-off driving. The different torque characteristics of this system are not typical of a hydraulic system. The noise complaint is most likely due to three possible conditions:

– Intermediate shaft sticking or slipping. – Interference between the intermediate shaft clamp and the steering gear input shaft. – Strut mount or anti-sway bar link condition.

There is also a precise mounting bolt torque specification that must be followed to ensure that the rack is properly mounted to the frame.

If this specification is not followed, vibration can lead to a misdiagnosed noise. The rack mounting bolts must be tightened to 53 ft.- lbs., plus an additional 90 degrees of rotation (torque-plus-angle method).

A GUIDE TO PROBLEMS AND CAUSES

CONDITION Steering system cold-start noise

CAUSE

Power steering fluid blockage caused by contamination in the reservoir and/or lines.

Some noise during an extremely cold start (-10 degrees F) is normal and should improve as the system warms.

Also, air in the power steering system can cause the same issue. Check for leaks and purge air from the system.

CONDITION Steering grunt or shudder when turning the wheels at low speed.

CAUSE

This may be caused by air in the power steering fluid circuit, deteriorating system hoses or steering gear wear.

CONDITION Power steering pump moan/humming sound when the steering wheel is turned to a stop position.

CAUSE

Consider low power steering fluid level, air in the PS system, insufficient PS fluid flow due to reservoir or screen blockage, power steering line or hose grounded to the chassis, or steering gear isolator damage.

CONDITION Steering gear clunk noise when driving over a bump.

CAUSE

Steering gear wear or steering gear mounting is loose.

CONDITION Belt squeal or chirping when turning the steering wheel lock-to-lock.

CAUSE

Belt tension, belt glazing, belt misalignment, pulley damage or pulley alignment, worn belt tensioner CONDITION Power steering hiss or whistle noise.

CAUSE

Steering column shaft or coupling bind or misalignment. Also check for a grounded or loose steering column bracket, damaged or worn steering gear input shaft and valve wear, or restricted power steering lines/hoses. This could also be caused by a noisy valve in the power steering gear.

CONDITION Rattle or clunk noise.

CAUSE

Check for loose column brackets and fasteners, worn, loose or dry column bearings, worn or damaged steering shaft insulators, or a compressed or extended steering column shaft/coupling. Also check for a loose power steering gear, loose front suspension crossmember mounting fasteners, loose inner/ outer tie rods, loose strut assembly mounting, power steering fluid pressure hose contacting the body, or a damaged power steering gear.

CONDITION Squeak or rubbing noise.

CAUSE

Incorrect power steering fluid for the vehicle (for example, using ATF instead of power steering fluid). Also check for bad steering gear seals. Another culprit may be a bent or improperly positioned steering shaft stone shield. Also check for steering column shaft rubbing.

Worn strut bearings, improperly assembled strut, cracked coil spring or faulty upper strut bearing are all variables regarding noises.

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Of course, you can always use the Reader Service Card to the right and send it to us, and we’ll connect you to the advertiser.

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Dodge DART REPROGRAM

This bulletin applies to 2013-2014 Dodge Dart vehicles equipped with a 2.4L engine, built on or before Feb. 14, 2014. The MIL may be on with DTC P2251 (O2 sensor 1/1 negative current control circuit open).

The fix involves selectively erasing and reprogramming the PCM with new software, using software level release 14.02 or higher.

Using a scan tool (wiTECH) with the appropriate diagnostic procedures available in TechCONNECT, verify that all engine systems are functioning as designed. If DTCs other than the one listed here are present, record and repair as needed before proceeding.

Install a battery charger to maintain battery voltage above 13.2 and below 13.5 volts.

Reprogram the PCM following procedures available in DealerCONNECT/TechCONNECT. Refer to Group 89 - Electrical > Electronic Control Modules - Service Information > Module - Powertrain Control > Standard Procedures > PCM/ECM Programming.

After PCM reprogramming, clear any DTCs that may have set in other modules.

Ford HARD BRAKE

Some 2011 Ford Expedition and Lincoln Navigator vehicles may exhibit an intermittent hard brake pedal feel or firmness after extended cold soak.

Reprogram the PCM to the latest calibration using IDS release 82.10 and higher. Calibration files may be obtained at www.motorcraft.com.

Audi TINY MYSTERY LEAK

This bulletin applies to 2011 Audi A8 vehicles. The MIL may be on, with no leak found in the EVAP system, and a DTC P0456 (very small EVAP leak) stored in the ECM.

New software in the control module (J623) addresses the condition.

Reference the SVM table below to determine the appropriate SVM update code. If the existing software is already at the new version levels shown below, contact Audi technical assistance for further instruction.

Model/Engine Old software P/N Old software version New software P/N New software version SVM action code A8/4.2 FSI 4H0907560A 0006 4H0907560C 0004 02A031

Chevrolet DUMB DESIGN

Some 2011 Chevy HHR vehicles may show a Service Engine Soon light on, with DTCs P0016 and/or P0017 stored. This may be the result of a camshaft reluctor that has moved on the camshaft. The reluctor is press-fit and is not indexed/keyed to the camshaft. An overheat condition may contribute to the concern, causing the reluctor to spin on the camshaft when hot.

The procedure listed here was developed for 2006 and later 2.4L LE5 engines. The reluctor position on other engines may vary. It may be necessary to compare the reluctor position of other engines to a known good engine of the same RPO code. If the engine is timed properly and service diagnosis does not isolate the cause of the concern, perform the suggestions listed here.

To check the exhaust cam reluctor position

With cylinder #4 exhaust valves fully open (at maximum lift), the exhaust cam reluctor should be parallel to the rocker cover gasket.

(LE5 only): With the exhaust camshaft positioned so that the valves for #4 cylinder are at maximum lift (fully opened), the reluctor should be flush/parallel to the rocker cover gasket surface as shown in the photo. If the reluctor position does not line up correctly, the exhaust camshaft must be replaced.

Check the intake cam reluctor with #1 cylinder’s valves at maximum lift (fully open).

To check the intake cam reluctor position (LE5 only): With the intake camshaft positioned so that the valves for #1 cylinder are at maximum lift (valves fully open), the reluctor should be flush/parallel to the rocker cover gasket. If not, the intake camshaft must be replaced.

NOTE: Each of the procedures listed here may not detect a small movement in the reluctor. It may be necessary to compare to a known good engine if in doubt. Also note that the cam cover gasket surface does not line up with the same face/slot on the intake and exhaust reluctors.

Clore adds 12-volt jump starter Clore Automotive has added a 12-volt jump starter to its Jump-N-Carry brand. Model No. JNC318 12 Volt Jump Starter and Power Supply is designed to offer robust jump starting power with numerous utility and convenience features. Features include preheat capability for improved performance in extreme cold temperatures, USB outlets to power small electronics, 12-volt power supply capability and a high intensity LED (light emitting diode) work light. The JNC318 generates 700 peak amps and 330 start assist amps. CLORE AUTOMOTIVE INC. Circle 140 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14140

New Opti-Cal brake calipers eliminate core returns The new Raybestos Opti-Cal line from Brake Parts Inc. features all new components and no core returns. Raybestos Opti-Cal calipers are manufactured with a new caliper body, brackets and components, including pistons, lubricated guide pins and pad mounting hardware, to ensure they fit and function correctly. Aluminum or zinc plated castings deliver superior corrosion prevention. BRAKE PARTS INC. Circle 141 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14141 SMP expands Standard and Intermotor lines Standard Motor Products (SMP) has added 109 part numbers to its Standard and Intermotor lines. The release spans 24 categories and expands coverage through the 2017 model year by more than 61 million vehicles in operation (VIO). The release includes 61 sensors covering 27 accelerator pedal, 12 vehicle speed, and 12 ABS speed sensors. SMP also added 26 switches. Examples include headlight, ignition starter, multi-function, neutral safety, power window, and windshield wiper switches. Also new are 10 transmission control solenoids, eight vacuum pumps, and two variable valve timing components. STANDARD MOTOR PRODUCTS INC. Circle 142 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14142 Torque fin speeds truck wheel service AME International has introduced the Torque Fin, a torque wrench-stabilizing accessory for commercial fleet tire service. The company says the Torque Fin is the fastest way for one person to torque wheel nuts; it is ideal for service technicians to get off the roadside, yet still provide proper torque. The Torque Fin links to commercial torque wrenches to enable a single person to torque large truck tires. AME INTERNATIONAL LLC Circle 143 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14143 Next-generation TireMaster software New TireMasterGTX software from ASA Automotive Systems is point-of-sale and accounting software for mid-sized and enterprise-level retail/ wholesale businesses in North America. TireMaster GTX is the nextg e n e r a t i o n of TireMaster s o f t w a r e f o r multi-location tire and auto service dealers. The company says Windows-based TireMaster GTX is available as an on-premise or hosted data center solution, enabling multi-site dealers and franchises to manage each store from a single, head-office location. At the same time, each location has its own independent application and database. ASA AUTOMOTIVE SYSTEMS INC. Circle 144 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14144

Mahle has new A/C service unit for R1234yf vehicles The new ArcticPro ACX1250 air conditioning (A /C) service unit by Mahle Aftermarket’s Service Solutions division is designed to economically service R1234yf vehicles. The ACX1250 is designed to increase technician productivity due to its fully automatic program to recover, vacuum, leak test, and charge without command for ease of operation. An external refrigerant identifier minimizes costly refrigerant cross contamination risks. The ACX1250 is designed to recover more than 95% of automobile A/C system refrigerant. MAHLE AFTERMARKET INC. Circle 145 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14145 Rancho short-arm lift kit accommodates up to 37-inch tires The new Rancho performance 4-inch crawler shortarm suspension kit adds a competitive stance, drivability and performance to popular 2017-07 Jeep Wrangler JKs and Jeep Wrangler Unlimiteds (RS66114B), according to Tenneco. The kits included progressive rate front and rear coil springs; heavy-duty front and rear adjustable track bars; and new fully adjustable upper and fully adjustable extended length, heavy-duty Rancho control arms. The kit allows for use of up to 37-inch tires and fully integrates with the vehicle’s factory stability controls. TENNECO INC. Circle 146 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14146 KTI offers new pocket light K Tool International (KTI) has a new pocket light (part no. KTI73270) with a 180 Lumen COB LED light. The company says COB is the newest LED technology in which multiple individual LEDs are packaged together to form one lighting module. COB LEDs are known for broadcasting light over a larger area with less glare than regular LEDs. The light can be attached to a pocket, belt or pouch or to a vehicle, tool box or other metal object with the magnetic clip. K TOOL INTERNATIONAL Circle 147 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14147 A/C leak detection kit comes with rechargeable flashlight The Tracerline TP-8656 air conditioning leak detection kit from Tracer Products features a cordless, rechargeable, violet light LED (light emitting diode) leak detection flashlight with convenient on-board recharging. In addition to the company’s Opti-Pro Plus flashlight, the TP8656 kit includes: an EZ-Shot A/C dye injection gun; R-134a hose/coupler with purge fitting; 8 oz. (237 ml) BigEZ R-134a/PAG multi-dose A/C dye cartridge for servicing up to 64 vehicles; 8 oz. (237 ml) spray bottle of Glo-Away dye cleaner; and smart A/C charger. TRACER PRODUCTS LLC Circle 148 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14148 Lang Tools offers pinch off pliers Lang Tools’ new Self-Locking Offset Pinch Off Pliers are designed to seal vacuum lines, fuel lines, radiator hoses, and any other flexible materials. The company says the product line is designed with a self-locking feature that holds after pressure is applied and can be released by simply pulling the handles apart. The offset design allows for better access in hard-toreach areas. The pliers are available in small (#1460), medium (#1470), large (#1480), and a three-piece kit (#1500). LANG TOOLS Circle 149 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14149

Bosch introduces heavy-duty scan tool Robert Bosch’s new HDS 200 heavy-duty scan tool is designed for aftermarket repair shops that sometimes service Class 4 – 8 trucks and for heavy-duty shops that need a second triage tool or to equip their mobile repair trucks. Bosch says the tool displays and graphs live data from SAE standard MIDS/PIDS along with on-screen definitions of diagnostic trouble codes and is HD-OBD compatible. The tool offers Global OBD II Quick Test for gasoline and diesel engines. ROBERT BOSCH LLC Circle 150 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14150 Lisle caster camber kit for GM vehicles The new caster camber kit from Lisle includes a double-offset caster wrench for 2007 and newer GM pickups and vehicles with coil spring front suspensions. The kit includes a cam adjusting holding tool to adjust the upper control arm cams found on Chevy and GMC vehicles. The holding tool surrounds the entire perimeter of each cam to provide a no-slip work area when moving the hard-to-reach and often rusty OEM cams. The company says the 14-1/2-inch/21 mm wrench can be used from the bottom side of the vehicle instead of reaching through the wheel well. LISLE CORP. Circle 151 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14151

New Liquid Wrench penetrant and lubricant has LED light RSC Chemical Solutions’ new Liquid Wrench Pro Penetrant and Lubricant features exclusive FlashSight LED (light emitting diode) technology. A built-in LED light located directly above the spray nozzle enables users to see where they spray and improves accuracy in low-light areas. A locking on-and-off collar provides convenient, no-mess storage and there are two spray options: with or without a straw. RSC CHEMICAL SOLUTIONS Circle 152 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14152

VSG debuts Rotary wheel balancers The new line of Rotary wheel balancers from Vehicle Service Group (VSG) ranges from a 3D electronic wheel balancer to a manual model. The R180 Pro 3D Auto Wheel Balancer has automatic wheel dimension sonar and a laser rim profile scanner. The R155 Pro 3D model has interactive inputs that guide the operator. The R138 Shop 2D Wheel Balancer is an entry-level computerized balancer with a small footprint and low rotational speed. The R122 Hand Spin model delivers precision balancing at low rotational speeds using a hand crank or by manually spinning the wheel. VEHICLE SERVICE GROUP Circle 153 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14153

Stant coolant temperature sensors Stant USA’s new line of coolant temperature sensors measure temperature changes within a vehicle’s cooling system. The company says this continuous measurement is sent to the vehicle’s powertrain control module to help manage fuel injection, ignition timing, variable valve timing and transmission shifting. Engineered using exact specifications of leading vehicle manufacturers, Stant coolant temperature sensors have fewer components, making them lightweight, cost effective and easy to install. The company offers more than 90% coverage for domestic and import applications. STANT USA CORP. Circle 154 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14154

Mac Tools’ brushless impact driver kit The 20V ma x 1/4 - i n c h h e x drive BL-spec brushless impact driver kit from Mac Tools comes with a tool bag, charger, 2.0 amp hour battery and 4.0 amp hour battery. Features of the cordless impact driver include 250 ft.-lbs. max breakaway torque, 1/4-inch quick-change hex collet, 3-point LED light and variable speed trigger. The impact driver is compact, measuring 5.53 inches from front of anvil to back of the body. MAC TOOLS Circle 155 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14155 Midtronics battery diagnostics Midtronics’ new DSS-5000 Battery Diagnostic Service System features Conductance Profiling, a patented technology designed to provide more, and deeper, information about battery state of charge and state of health than available via either traditional load or conductance testing. The DSS-5000 supports diagnostics for conventional lead-acid, AGM and EFB batteries and advanced vehicle systems, including start-stop. The touchscreen provides easy system navigation. MIDTRONICS INC. Circle 156 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14156 Arnott adds strut for Mercedes-Benz Arnott has released a new, not remanufactured, aftermarket air suspension strut (AS-2820) for the front of the 2007-2013 Mercedes-Benz S-Class (W221 Chassis) with AirMatic and without 4Matic. The AS-2820 features a new custom-valved shock absorber assembled with a durable new Continental ContiTech rubber air spring bladder. The strut has no lower isolator seal, which is subject to failure on the original equipment, according to Arnott. The fully assembled air strut plugs directly into the vehicle’s electronic connector and eliminates fault codes. ARNOTT INC. Circle 157 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14157

Eco-Absorb safely cleans spills Eco-Absorbent Technologies’ Eco-Absorb absorbent is made from an all-natural, non-toxic earth compound. The company says spill cleanup can be done safely and quickly so work can resume with no hazardous dust, slick residue, or lifting of heavy bagged absorbents. Eco-Absorb can be used safely without worry of inhalation, and will remain dust-free even when exposed to the open air indefinitely. Eco-Absorb also indicates a substance is hazardous by changing color. ECO-ABSORBENT TECHNOLOGIES INC. Circle 158 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14158

Hunter adds Quick Tread console Hunter Engineering has released a space-saving console designed to run a fully automatic Quick Tread inspection lane. Hunter’s Quick Tread inspection technology automatically measures tire tread depth and captures vehicle identification in seconds as motorists drive into the service lane. The compact console provides a clean installation virtually anywhere in or nearby the service drive. The console can be connected to a network printer at the service desk to provide customers inspection result printouts. HUNTER ENGINEERING CO. Circle 159 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14159

E-ZOIL hand cleaner and shop wipes E-ZOIL Products has introduced a hand cleaner and a combined hand, tool and surface towel for professional technicians. New Hardy Hands uses a high-performance formula with natural ingredients. The company says walnut shell scrubbers quickly eliminate dirt and grime and six lotions leave hands soft and clean with a fresh citrus aroma. Hardy Wipes is a combined hand, tool and surface towel. The product uses the same high-performance formula in Hardy Hands to remove dirt, grime, grease, oil, tar and many other soils. The two-sided towel has an abrasive side to cut through soils and a smooth side to wipe surfaces clean. E-ZOIL PRODUCTS INC. Circle 160 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14160 Meyle releases Porsche control arm repair kit N e w M e y l e Original brand control arm kits for Porsche models include a full set of mounting parts. Hamburg-based manufacturer Meyle AG says it is currently the only aftermarket supplier to offer full-service kits for the Porsche control arm repair. Featuring bolts and nuts carefully matched to one another, the new kits provide repair professionals with every component required for spare part assembly from a single box. The kits cater to the Porsche 911, Boxster and Cayman models. MEYLE AG Circle 161 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14161

Gates adds retractable air hose reels Gates has released two variations of a retractable air hose reel. The first air hose reel is a multiuse, fully enclosed automatic reel that allows the hose to be reeled out and stopped or rewound at any point. Its gradual return feature ensures no uncontrolled rewind. The second reel is an indoor/outdoor heavy-duty reel with a heavyweight dual supporting arm. Both reels come with Gates’ 50-foot hybrid polymer air hose. GATES CORP. Circle 162 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14162 VMAC air compressor for Ford vans The latest Van Series air compressor from VMAC is designed for Ford Transit EcoBoost commercial vans. The Underhood30 air compressor offers up to 30 cfm at 100% duty cycle. VMAC says the new air compressor is attractively priced and is the best choice for operators using air tools for light duty applications. Weighing just 62 pounds, the VMAC Underhood30 rotary screw air compressor is lightweight and compact. VMAC Circle 163 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14163 Continental has VDO Flex Fuel Sensors for GM vehicles VDO OEM Direct Flex Fuel Sensors from Continental Commercial V e h i c l e s & A f t e r m a r k e t are the exact OEM part as supplied to General Motors worldwide. Coverage includes specific models of: Cadillac ATS, SRX and XTS; Chevrolet Avalanche 1500, Caprice, Captiva Sport, Express 2500/3500/4500, Equinox, Impala, Impala Limited, S10, Silverado 1500, Suburban 1500 and Tahoe; Buick LaCrosse, Regal and Verano; and GMC Savana 2500/3500/4500, Sierra 1500, Sonoma, Terrain, Yukon and Yukon XL 1500. CONTINENTAL COMMERCIAL VEHICLES & AFTERMARKET Circle 164 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14164

Permatex unveils Optimum Gasket Maker line The new Optimum Gasket Maker line from Permatex is engineered for maximum performance under high stress and extreme temperatures. The company says Permatex Optimum Grey Gasket Maker provides superior adhesion and is capable of withstanding high torque loads and vibration while offering maximum temperature resistance up to +700 degrees Fahrenheit. Permatex Optimum Black Gasket Maker is designed for use on lighter and more flexible engine components adopted by manufacturers to improve fuel economy. PERMATEX Circle 165 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14165 Coast has rechargeable flashlight The new Polysteel 600R rechargeable LED flashlight from Coast Products projects a beam distance of up to 810 feet (247 meters). It comes with a high-quality lithium rechargeable battery pack, and standard alkaline batteries can also power the light. The company says patented Pure Beam Optics System with proprietary technology produces a pure, bright consistency across the entire beam, whether it is in “Bulls-Eye Spot” mode or “Ultra View Flood Beam” mode. The Polysteel 600R is available in black, blue, green, red and orange. COAST PRODUCTS INC. Circle 166 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14166 OTC tool speeds heavy-duty service Bosch Automotive Service Solutions has introduced the OTC Hendrickson Front Suspension Bushing Tool Set for heavy-duty applications. The company says the new tool removes rusted and frozen heavy-duty front suspension bushings easily and faster than traditional heat-and-beat methods. The tool, which is used without removing suspension parts from the vehicle, significantly reduces time spent on bushing service. Adapters help to align the tool to ensure proper bushing installation, reducing the possibility of misalignment or damage. A 25-ton high-force cylinder is included. The tool set is available with an air/hydraulic pump for expedited bushing service. BOSCH AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE SOLUTIONS Circle 167 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14167 CRP offers Rein exhaust sensors for Audi and Volkswagen CRP Automotive offers Rein Automotive OE quality exhaust sensors for Audi and Volkswagen 2009- 2015 4 cycle 2.0 and V6 3.0L diesel engines used in A3, Q7, Beetle, Golf, Jetta, and Passat models. The company says these sensors accurately monitor the vehicle’s exhaust gas temperature with millisecond response times. This enables the engine control unit to properly regulate exhaust gas after treatment and control the engine conditions to maximize fuel economy, minimize emissions, and protect the engine from overheating. CRP AUTOMOTIVE Circle 168 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14168 ESCO adds mobile lifting systems Equipment Supply Co. (ESCO) has added the MiniLift series of mobile lifting systems to its product offerings. The company says the MiniLift Classic (model #92050) is a uniquely designed portable lifting system that allows for easy lifting of the vehicle in any service or body shop environment using a pneumatic air inflated lifting system and support stands. The MiniLift Lift & Move (model #92055) allows technicians to lift and sustain the load of the vehicle all while completely moving the vehicle on a trolley. EQUIPMENT SUPPLY CO. Circle 169 on Reader Service Card www.aspquiklink.com/14169