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How Things Work

Ever wonder how the different automotive systems function on you car or truck ?

Read through some of the articles below. This list is being added to all the time, so check back soon.

Does My Car Need A Front End Alignment?

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Category: How Things Work
Why should you get a front end alignment? Improper front end alignment is a major cause of premature tire wear. Over years of driving, a properly aligned vehicle can add thousands of miles to the life of your tires. Most tires are replaced because of premature wear caused by the front end being out of alignment. When the front end is line properly, this makes it easier for the car to roll.

Exhaust Recirculation System - EGR Valve

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Category: How Things Work

The Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) system is used to lower Oxides of Nitrogen (NOx) emission levels caused by high combustion temperature. It does this by allowing some exhaust gas to go back into the intake manifold decreasing combustion temperature.

Evaporative Emission System Operation and Components

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Category: How Things Work

The Evaporative Emission (EVAP) control system limits the fuel vapors from escaping into the atmosphere. The EVAP transfers the fuel vapors from the sealed fuel tank to an activated carbon (charcoal) storage device (EVAP canister). The EVAP canister stores the vapors until the engine is able to use the extra fuel vapor. When the engine is able to use the extra fuel vapor,

How Does A Car Catalytic Converter Work

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A 3-way catalytic (TWC) converter is used on most newer cars and trucks in order to control the exhaust emissions of hydrocarbons (HC), carbon monoxide (CO), and oxides of nitrogen (NOx). This is mandated by the federal gonvernment and must be present on your vehicle. The catalyst chemicals within the converter promotes a chemical reaction which oxidizes the HC and the CO that is present in the exhaust gas.

Car and Truck Fuel System Operation

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Category: How Things Work

The fuel tank stores the fuel supply. The electric fuel pump, supplies fuel through an in-line fuel filter to the fuel injection system. The fuel pump provides fuel at a higher rate of flow than is needed by the fuel injection system. The fuel pressure regulator maintains the correct fuel pressure to the fuel injection system. A separate pipe returns unused fuel to the fuel tank.

Electronic Throttle Control System Operation

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The throttle actuator control (TAC) system delivers improved throttle response and greater reliability and eliminates the need for mechanical cable. The TAC system performs the following functions:

• Accelerator pedal position sensing

• Throttle positioning to meet driver and engine demands

How Does the Keyless Entry System Work?

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The remote keyless entry system performs the following functions:

• Locking the vehicle doors
• Unlocking the vehicle doors
• Opening the rear compartment lid

The keyless entry system is equipped with an alarm feature that performs the following functions:

Positive Crankcase Ventilation - PCV Valve System

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Category: How Things Work

A crankcase ventilation system is used to consume crankcase vapors in the combustion process instead of venting them to atmosphere. Fresh air from the throttle body is supplied to the crankcase, mixed with blow by gases and then passed through a PCV valve into the intake manifold.

Baisic Starting System Function and Operation

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The cranking circuit consists of the battery, starter motor, ignition switch, and related wiring.

These starter motors are not serviceable and are replaced as assemblies only.

Most of today's starter motors are non-repairable starter motors. They have pole pieces that are arranged around the armature within the starter housing. When the solenoid windings are energized, the pull-in winding circuit is completed to ground through the starter motor.

Air Conditioning System Operation

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Category: How Things Work

The A/C system provides the following features:

Cooled and dehumidified air for the comfort of the occupants. Power ventilation. Windshield defrosting. Side window defrosting.

During most operating conditions outside air enters the vehicle in the following manners:

Engine Coolant System | Water Pump Radiator Thermostat Heater Core

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The cooling system's function is to maintain an efficient engine operating temperature during all engine speeds and operating conditions. The cooling system is designed to remove approximately one-third of the heat produced by the burning of the air-fuel mixture. When the engine is cold, the system cools slowly or not at all. This allows the engine to warm quickly.

Charging System Components and Operation

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On today's newer cars and trucks, the generator (ALternator) provides DC voltage to operate the vehicle's electrical system and to charge the battery. A magnetic field is created when current flows through the rotor windings. The rotor is belt driven by the engine creating an AC voltage as this field rotates within the stator windings.