What are you working on today?
- Thread starter Amkeer
- Start date
Brief research has me believing none of the '11-16 SuperDuties got it, gas or diesel. And sounds questionable on '17+ also. However, I wouldn't stake my life on my sources, although they're likely sufficient to be in charge at Harvard.....
Finishing up testing cars so I can go back to my own project Mini and my backlog. I’m all done after today.
Got let out early last night after the small Mercedes SUV I was assigned had a loud clunk in 1st through 3rd gear.
Mechanic looked it over and said it was likely the transmission. With these cars, that is its death sentence. Mercedes takes it back, studies the failure and CRUSH goes the test mule. Too bad, as it was a really nice one.
I have a parts hold on the Mini as more key pieces trickle in, so I’m arranging the garage to be a little more organized so I can finish in comfort.
Got let out early last night after the small Mercedes SUV I was assigned had a loud clunk in 1st through 3rd gear.
Mechanic looked it over and said it was likely the transmission. With these cars, that is its death sentence. Mercedes takes it back, studies the failure and CRUSH goes the test mule. Too bad, as it was a really nice one.
I have a parts hold on the Mini as more key pieces trickle in, so I’m arranging the garage to be a little more organized so I can finish in comfort.
New front stabilizer link for the 2010 Mazda 3 (drivers side). Clunking is now gone.
But man, this car probably does not have much longer, the rust is impressive... It is the dog/errand car only, though, so not a huge loss when that day comes. But now I have a failed HVAC solenoid or something to fix (clicks in the dash somewhere when recirculate is on).
But man, this car probably does not have much longer, the rust is impressive... It is the dog/errand car only, though, so not a huge loss when that day comes. But now I have a failed HVAC solenoid or something to fix (clicks in the dash somewhere when recirculate is on).
- Joined
- Nov 20, 2021
- Messages
- 2,210
2014 Jeep Grand Cherokee 3.6 V6
Replaced oil cooler assembly, upper/lower plenum seals, spark plugs, ignition coil boots, air filter, changed oil.
2013 Toyota Tundra 5.7 V8
Replaced spark plugs, ignition coil boots, air filter, rotated tires and changed oil
Replaced oil cooler assembly, upper/lower plenum seals, spark plugs, ignition coil boots, air filter, changed oil.
2013 Toyota Tundra 5.7 V8
Replaced spark plugs, ignition coil boots, air filter, rotated tires and changed oil
How much pressure do these run?
AutoMechanic
Site Donor 2025
Today was a steady day at work. Busiest day we have had since before Christmas. Spent most of my day in the managers office but for a good reason. I got a raise by $3 and I have a decision to make too, I can either stay with Toyota which is what they want me to do or go back to Subaru. Completely my choice. And they basically told me name my price to stay with Toyota and I’ve got it because they need a Toyota tech more than a Subaru tech. My heart is at Subaru but I’ve really established myself with Toyota now too. I wish I could do Toyota with a Subaru uniform cause I hate representing Toyota because of their pickiness of honoring warranty. And also the Subaru uniforms look more professional because they aren’t black so they show the dirt and grease and make me look like a working man lol.
When I seen my phone ringing and it was the big boss I was scared honestly lol. He asked for me to come and talk with him then I spoke to my direct boss afterwards. Everyone thought I was in trouble lol. My parents encouraged me to stay with Toyota but said ultimately only I know what’s best for me so it was my choice and not let their opinion influence me. I do respect what they think of course though either way. I have a week or two to make a decision. It’s going to be hard. Both has its pros and cons. I’m just happy to be appreciated where I am. I’ve completed all my Toyota training online next step is in person classes. I’ve let my Subaru stuff lapse because they wanted me to focus on Toyota. It’s going to be one of those decisions that keeps me awake all night for a day or two.
When I seen my phone ringing and it was the big boss I was scared honestly lol. He asked for me to come and talk with him then I spoke to my direct boss afterwards. Everyone thought I was in trouble lol. My parents encouraged me to stay with Toyota but said ultimately only I know what’s best for me so it was my choice and not let their opinion influence me. I do respect what they think of course though either way. I have a week or two to make a decision. It’s going to be hard. Both has its pros and cons. I’m just happy to be appreciated where I am. I’ve completed all my Toyota training online next step is in person classes. I’ve let my Subaru stuff lapse because they wanted me to focus on Toyota. It’s going to be one of those decisions that keeps me awake all night for a day or two.
Depends on the weight being loaded on the rear axle. A height control valve controls the amount of air going in and out of the bags. Min weighted about 40-60PSI. Max weighted about 90-110 PSI.
Height control valve. Vertical link from axle connects to lever to valve mounted on frame. 4 air lines connect to valve: one air inlet (from secondary air tank), one exhaust (to atmosphere), two airbag ports and dump valve port (where a separate 'dump solenoid' feeds air pressure into the valve to exhaust all air from bags)
Pretty analog device and it makes the ride loaded or empty less jarring and fatiguing compared to leaf springs.
You get the $3 raise no matter what? They literally and exactly said "name your price to stay at Toyota"? Presuming yes and yes, "Mr. (Boss' Name), my heart is at Subaru but I understand the need at Toyota. I'd like another $5 an hour to stay there."
- Joined
- Aug 4, 2021
- Messages
- 1,371
Mod's. Please delete if not allowed!!
I don't know if just cars are allowed on here?
Millers Falls low angle Block Plane!! Got in on ebay for $20.00 with shipping!
Restoring it to send to my brother, he dropped and broke his!!
Before pictures!
I don't know if just cars are allowed on here?
Millers Falls low angle Block Plane!! Got in on ebay for $20.00 with shipping!
Restoring it to send to my brother, he dropped and broke his!!
Before pictures!
Attachments
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- Aug 4, 2021
- Messages
- 1,371
Older post, I know! But yes, Good Call!! now's the time to do it!Replacing a water pump on my Jaguar X-type... it’s a little whiny and gravelly, and it’s cheap and easy to replace. I got an AC Delco pump to go in it along with the proper pink coolant. Should be easy (probably jinxed it!)...
IOW's B-4 you are stuck on the side O the road!!!!
- Joined
- Aug 4, 2021
- Messages
- 1,371
During breaks in the day-to-day, I've been doing up front work for downloading docs and the repair manual for the Highlander from TIS. I'm working to a deadline as my monthly TIS subscription is only good thru the end of January. The goal is to organize the mass download and be able to put the manual back together "off-line".
I need a document tree (essentially an indented document BOM) that I can use as a visual reference in organizing a file system on the PC. Unfortunately, TIS doesn't allow direct printing of the tree, so it's a cut and paste exercise into Excel.
Document Tree from TIS.
Cut and pasted into Excel.
There are over 4k documents not including the ones not applicable to my application. Each section will get its own folder where that sections docs will be downloaded to. TIS also doesn't allow direct download; just hard copy printing. Print to .pdf works just as well.
I did something similar for the repair manual for the LS400.
I need a document tree (essentially an indented document BOM) that I can use as a visual reference in organizing a file system on the PC. Unfortunately, TIS doesn't allow direct printing of the tree, so it's a cut and paste exercise into Excel.
Document Tree from TIS.
Cut and pasted into Excel.
There are over 4k documents not including the ones not applicable to my application. Each section will get its own folder where that sections docs will be downloaded to. TIS also doesn't allow direct download; just hard copy printing. Print to .pdf works just as well.
I did something similar for the repair manual for the LS400.
I actually rebuilt/reassembled a freight damaged WEN drill press I acquired. I had to cut some (1.3") off the post, square it up, reassemble, remount, knock some dents out of the belt cover, re-do some electrical connections. Works! I need to wait on one part.
It was just too broken:
https://wenproducts.com/products/4214b-030-switch-box-for-wen-4214?_pos=1&_sid=ea423306f&_ss=r
It was just too broken:
https://wenproducts.com/products/4214b-030-switch-box-for-wen-4214?_pos=1&_sid=ea423306f&_ss=r
Worked on the 91 F150:
Put in a replacement alternator (3rd gen vice 2nd gen) out of a 97 Taurus. Got 110 amps instead of 75, got rid of the stupid pair of 1/4" spade lugs that all the power goes through on the 2g version. Was motivated by a jumping dash gauge... either the brushes were weak or the regulator was on its way out. No matter. New alt holds rock steady voltage even at idle with the lights and blower on high.
Was also getting 1/10 of a second "cutouts", where the engine would lose all power, but not long enough to stall as the inertia of the motor would catch itself. CEL would blink with it too. Changed the TFI module. One screw hole in the distributor (for retaining the module) had stripped threads so I used a long 1/8" diameter Pop_Rivet instead. Let's hope I never have to replace it again, I got the cheapest Chinese one around, LOL. (I know Motorcraft isn't what it was back in 1991 for this part so I punted.) Did use thermal paste as recommended, to help the module shed its heat energy. Waiting for dark so I can set timing.
Put in a replacement alternator (3rd gen vice 2nd gen) out of a 97 Taurus. Got 110 amps instead of 75, got rid of the stupid pair of 1/4" spade lugs that all the power goes through on the 2g version. Was motivated by a jumping dash gauge... either the brushes were weak or the regulator was on its way out. No matter. New alt holds rock steady voltage even at idle with the lights and blower on high.
Was also getting 1/10 of a second "cutouts", where the engine would lose all power, but not long enough to stall as the inertia of the motor would catch itself. CEL would blink with it too. Changed the TFI module. One screw hole in the distributor (for retaining the module) had stripped threads so I used a long 1/8" diameter Pop_Rivet instead. Let's hope I never have to replace it again, I got the cheapest Chinese one around, LOL. (I know Motorcraft isn't what it was back in 1991 for this part so I punted.) Did use thermal paste as recommended, to help the module shed its heat energy. Waiting for dark so I can set timing.
- Joined
- Nov 20, 2021
- Messages
- 2,210
2007 Chevrolet Malibu
Replaced right rear brake caliper, replaced rear brake rotors and pads, rotated tires, changed oil
2006 Ford F-150
Inspected brakes, rotated tires, replaced air filter, changed oil
Spent the rest of the day at home getting ready for the cold weather my area is supposed to be getting next week. Ran the generator out of fuel and put in fresh gas, checked the oil, took inventory on my supply of batteries and propane. Checked my firewood pile. All set.
Replaced right rear brake caliper, replaced rear brake rotors and pads, rotated tires, changed oil
2006 Ford F-150
Inspected brakes, rotated tires, replaced air filter, changed oil
Spent the rest of the day at home getting ready for the cold weather my area is supposed to be getting next week. Ran the generator out of fuel and put in fresh gas, checked the oil, took inventory on my supply of batteries and propane. Checked my firewood pile. All set.
A LONG TALE OF WINTER RECOVERY, er, RECOVERIES:
STAGE 1:
Last night in their XJ my buddy's wife stabbed the brakes when she shouldn't have on a snowpacked curve. Note these are VERY rural dirt county roads (we saw a total of two other vehicles throughout the entire ordeal)
They partially wrapped the front clip around a steel fence pole (H-post of what looked to be 2-7/8" oil field pipe) and were stuck. So, about 30 minutes before dark I get the call I knew I shouldn't have answered (he only calls when there's a problem and while he can always rely on me I can rarely rely on him).
I agree to go try to recover him or at least give him a ride home. With new BFGs and the factory rear locker my SuperDuty yanked him out with minimal drama.
As we're using my pry bar to try to get the fender out of the LF tire (this is where unibodies suck because it's more stout than JUST a fender and plastic liner), literally tossing pieces of the plastic fan shroud into my bed, and assessing if he can drive home, a newer Taco drives past on this S-curve. They were going plenty slow and I remember being grateful they seemingly knew how to drive in these conditions-- but mostly I was heads up in case they lost control. In snowy driving conditions I trust myself and never trust other drivers.
STAGE 2:
So I start following him home and it's just a few miles. Things are going good and I'm thinking how lucky he got and I'm looking forward to the bacon cheese guac burgers waiting for me at home.
We come up a rise and I'm trying to understand the lights I see facing in my direction but off to the side, down a steep embankment. Yep, it's the aforementioned Taco. On it's lid. Never mind, they can't drive. And I can't for the life of me understand how they pulled this off.
The driver has a door open and is standing outside the vehicle. He says he's fine and I ask him what he needs from me. He asks if I can give him a ride home and I say of course. Well, then I hear a baby crying. Holy ×÷+*!! Turns out his 3 month old and wife (or gf) are also in there, but thank god everyone's ok.
My buddy in the XJ is slowly losing coolant so we agree he'll continue limping home as I work to load up the young family. The woman isn't wearing shoes, walking around in socks, and by now it's definitely under 20*F
STAGE 3:
I start off with the young family loaded up. The road is quiet, straight and flat. We come upon my buddy in the XJ, driver's side stuck in the left hand ditch!! How the he** did he pull this off?
At this point I determine I've entered the Twilight Zone. Vehicles are going off the road in places I'd never dream of such occurring. So, we strap him out a second time.
I get the young family home and finally get home myself to a warm fire and burgers.
The SuperDuty never missed a beat. I drive the 6R140 in manual, always a gear lower than I should be so I have a bit of compression braking when I let off the throttle. I kill traction control because I learned to drive without it and can't stand the interference. Combined with new BFG ATs the truck is VERY sure-footed.
NOW, FOR THE SERMON:
If you live in snow country, have good tires.
In EVERY vehicle I carry a recovery bag. It can be a canvas tool bag and need not take up much space. In there I carry a 30' strap (20' is often too short) and it should have LOOP ENDS. Straps with metal hooks are WalMart garbage.
NEVER PUT A LOOP OVER A TOW BALL. Have a plan for recovery points on YOUR vehicle. Figure this out now in your garage, not on the side of the road. If you can't find anything, a rear receiver can be an option. Up front see if there are tow hooks you can bolt to the frame or unibody. Don't just look aftermarket-- try the classifieds or eBay for OEM tow hooks. 2nd Gen Tundras and GMT400s are just a few options. Ask local 4x4 shops -- most aftermarket bumpers require OEM hooks to be removed.
Even on most cars it's possible to install hooks just behind a bumper valance that are barely noticeable and don't significantly reduce approach angle in large dips, etc. Consult a local fabricator or machinist if you must.
I carry a receiver clevis mount and two clevii in my bag. After last night I think I'll add a second clevis mount and a hitch pin in case the other vehicle has a receiver.
A clevis mount just makes life a bit easier. With a 2" receiver you can slide the loop end in and run the pin thru the loop. Practice this in your garage, too. If you have a 1-1/4" receiver this won't be an option, so get a clevis mount.
Take good care of your strap -- it's an investment that can save the day. Store it neatly rolled in your recovery bag and don't put it away wet (they'll rot and mildew).
Do this now, seriously. Go to your favorite retailer and find a 30' strap, then build your recovery bag around that.
STAGE 1:
Last night in their XJ my buddy's wife stabbed the brakes when she shouldn't have on a snowpacked curve. Note these are VERY rural dirt county roads (we saw a total of two other vehicles throughout the entire ordeal)
They partially wrapped the front clip around a steel fence pole (H-post of what looked to be 2-7/8" oil field pipe) and were stuck. So, about 30 minutes before dark I get the call I knew I shouldn't have answered (he only calls when there's a problem and while he can always rely on me I can rarely rely on him).
I agree to go try to recover him or at least give him a ride home. With new BFGs and the factory rear locker my SuperDuty yanked him out with minimal drama.
As we're using my pry bar to try to get the fender out of the LF tire (this is where unibodies suck because it's more stout than JUST a fender and plastic liner), literally tossing pieces of the plastic fan shroud into my bed, and assessing if he can drive home, a newer Taco drives past on this S-curve. They were going plenty slow and I remember being grateful they seemingly knew how to drive in these conditions-- but mostly I was heads up in case they lost control. In snowy driving conditions I trust myself and never trust other drivers.
STAGE 2:
So I start following him home and it's just a few miles. Things are going good and I'm thinking how lucky he got and I'm looking forward to the bacon cheese guac burgers waiting for me at home.
We come up a rise and I'm trying to understand the lights I see facing in my direction but off to the side, down a steep embankment. Yep, it's the aforementioned Taco. On it's lid. Never mind, they can't drive. And I can't for the life of me understand how they pulled this off.
The driver has a door open and is standing outside the vehicle. He says he's fine and I ask him what he needs from me. He asks if I can give him a ride home and I say of course. Well, then I hear a baby crying. Holy ×÷+*!! Turns out his 3 month old and wife (or gf) are also in there, but thank god everyone's ok.
My buddy in the XJ is slowly losing coolant so we agree he'll continue limping home as I work to load up the young family. The woman isn't wearing shoes, walking around in socks, and by now it's definitely under 20*F
STAGE 3:
I start off with the young family loaded up. The road is quiet, straight and flat. We come upon my buddy in the XJ, driver's side stuck in the left hand ditch!! How the he** did he pull this off?
At this point I determine I've entered the Twilight Zone. Vehicles are going off the road in places I'd never dream of such occurring. So, we strap him out a second time.
I get the young family home and finally get home myself to a warm fire and burgers.
The SuperDuty never missed a beat. I drive the 6R140 in manual, always a gear lower than I should be so I have a bit of compression braking when I let off the throttle. I kill traction control because I learned to drive without it and can't stand the interference. Combined with new BFG ATs the truck is VERY sure-footed.
NOW, FOR THE SERMON:
If you live in snow country, have good tires.
In EVERY vehicle I carry a recovery bag. It can be a canvas tool bag and need not take up much space. In there I carry a 30' strap (20' is often too short) and it should have LOOP ENDS. Straps with metal hooks are WalMart garbage.
NEVER PUT A LOOP OVER A TOW BALL. Have a plan for recovery points on YOUR vehicle. Figure this out now in your garage, not on the side of the road. If you can't find anything, a rear receiver can be an option. Up front see if there are tow hooks you can bolt to the frame or unibody. Don't just look aftermarket-- try the classifieds or eBay for OEM tow hooks. 2nd Gen Tundras and GMT400s are just a few options. Ask local 4x4 shops -- most aftermarket bumpers require OEM hooks to be removed.
Even on most cars it's possible to install hooks just behind a bumper valance that are barely noticeable and don't significantly reduce approach angle in large dips, etc. Consult a local fabricator or machinist if you must.
I carry a receiver clevis mount and two clevii in my bag. After last night I think I'll add a second clevis mount and a hitch pin in case the other vehicle has a receiver.
A clevis mount just makes life a bit easier. With a 2" receiver you can slide the loop end in and run the pin thru the loop. Practice this in your garage, too. If you have a 1-1/4" receiver this won't be an option, so get a clevis mount.
Take good care of your strap -- it's an investment that can save the day. Store it neatly rolled in your recovery bag and don't put it away wet (they'll rot and mildew).
Do this now, seriously. Go to your favorite retailer and find a 30' strap, then build your recovery bag around that.
