Advanced engine performance diagnosis

Based on the premise that simple problems should always be checked first, this practical, hands-on book introduces the diagnosis and troubleshooting of automotive engine control systems. With a very technical but easy-to-read and understand presentation this book serves as a single source for information on advanced engine performance diagnosis. KEY TOPICS: Topics include digital storage oscilloscopes, fuel injection and ignition system diagnoses, five-gas exhaust analysis, emission testing, and more. This edition has been updated to include even more detailed scope (DSO) and current ramping tests plus extensive scan tool diagnosis. MARKET: For those who need to pass the ASE Engine Performance certification test as well as the Advanced Level Engine Performance (L1) test.

Author Notes

James D. Halderman is the author of a large number of books, mainly college-level textbooks featuring information on automotive systems and other engineering services. In the textbook Automotive Brake Systems, Halderman discusses the purpose, function, operation and diagnosis of automotive braking systems including ABS. Some of Halderman's other textbooks include: Automotive Chassis Systems, which covers all under-vehicle components, operations, diagnosis's, and services; Automotive Electrical and Electronics Systems, featuring numerous troubleshooting techniques that can be used in the classroom or for reference; and Engines--Theory and Servicing, a complete orientation to automotive engines and engine repair topics.

Halderman earned his Bachelor of Science degree in education from Ohio Northern University in 1968, and has worked as Professor of Engineering Technologies at Sinclair Community College.

(Bowker Author Biography)

Chapter 1 The Diagnostic Process	p. 1
Learning Objectives	p. 1
Terms to Learn	p. 1
Just-in-Time Knowledge	p. 1
Think of a Funnel	p. 3
Finding the Root Cause	p. 3
The Eight-Step Diagnostic Procedure	p. 5
Troubleshooting Fundamentals	p. 18
Diagnostic Charts	p. 18
Typical Noncomputer Problems	p. 19
Summary	p. 22
Review Questions	p. 23
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 23
Chapter 2 Diagnostic Trouble Code Retrieval	p. 25
Learning Objectives	p. 25
Terms to Learn	p. 25
Computer Precautions	p. 25
How Diagnostic Trouble Codes Are Set	p. 26
Using a Scan Tool	p. 27
Pending and Mature Codes	p. 28
Methods for Clearing Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 29
Flash Code Retrieval on OBD I General Motors Vehicles	p. 30
Scan Tool DTC Retrieval on General Motors OBD I Vehicles	p. 31
Retrieving Ford Diagnostic Codes	p. 32
Flash Code Retrieval on DaimlerChrysler Vehicles	p. 35
Scan Tool DTC Retrieval on DaimlerChrysler Vehicles	p. 35
Honda Problem Diagnosis	p. 40
Retrieving Honda Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 42
Clearing Honda DTCs	p. 42
Toyota Problem Diagnosis	p. 42
Toyota OBD I Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 42
Clearing Toyota DTCs	p. 44
Retrieving OBD II Codes-16 Pin	p. 44
DTC Numbering Explanation	p. 44
OBD II Active Tests	p. 44
Types of DTCs	p. 44
Retrieving OBD II DTCs	p. 45
Generic OBD II Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 46
Clearing OBD II DTCs	p. 49
Summary	p. 49
Review Questions	p. 49
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 50
Chapter 3 Technical Service Bulletins and Scan Tool Data	p. 51
Learning Objectives	p. 51
Terms to Learn	p. 51
Technical Service Bulletins	p. 51
Vehicle Identification	p. 52
Vehicle Safety Certification Label	p. 52
VECI Label	p. 52
Calibration Codes	p. 53
Casting Numbers	p. 53
Service Information	p. 53
Types of Technical Service Bulletins	p. 55
Scan Tool Testing	p. 55
Scan Data Retrieval Procedure	p. 56
Injector Pulse Width Problem Diagnosis	p. 58
Oxygen Sensor Activity	p. 60
The Need for Fuel Trim	p. 60
Short-Term Fuel Trim	p. 61
Long-Term Fuel Trim	p. 61
Using Fuel Trim as a Diagnostic Aid	p. 62
Fuel Trim Cells	p. 62
Fuel Trim Cell Diagnosis	p. 63
Fuel Trim Monitor	p. 64
Generic and OEM Data	p. 64
Summary	p. 69
Review Questions	p. 69
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 69
Chapter 4 OBD II	p. 71
Learning Objectives	p. 71
Terms to Learn	p. 71
Onboard Diagnostics Generation-II (OBD II) Systems	p. 71
Diagnostic Executive and Task Manager	p. 72
Monitors	p. 72
Diagnostic Trouble Code Priority	p. 73
OBD II Monitor Information Summary	p. 74
Enabling Criteria	p. 74
Monitor Running Conditions	p. 75
OBD II Drive Cycle	p. 75
OBD II DTC Numbering Designation	p. 76
Freeze Frame and Failure Records	p. 78
Fuel Trim and Misfire Codes	p. 79
Generic OBD II	p. 79
Diagnosing Problems Using Mode Six	p. 81
Summary	p. 81
Review Questions	p. 81
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 82
Chapter 5 Digital Meters and Scopes	p. 83
Learning Objectives	p. 83
Terms to Learn	p. 83
Test Lights	p. 83
Self-Powered Test Lights	p. 84
Led Test Light	p. 84
Logic Probe	p. 85
Digital Multimeters	p. 85
Measuring Amperes	p. 87
AC/DC Clamp-On Digital Multimeter	p. 88
Measuring Voltage	p. 89
Measuring Resistance	p. 90
Electrical Unit Prefixes	p. 92
How to Read Digital Meters	p. 94
RMS Versus Average	p. 95
Resolution, Digits, and Counts	p. 96
Accuracy	p. 96
Analog Versus Digital Storage Oscilloscope	p. 97
Oscilloscope Display Grid	p. 97
Setting the Time Base	p. 98
Setting the Volts per Division	p. 99
DC Coupling	p. 99
AC Coupling	p. 99
Pulse Trains	p. 100
Triggering	p. 100
Using Scope Leads	p. 100
Measuring Battery Voltage with a Scope	p. 103
Scope Probe Attenuation	p. 103
Summary	p. 114
Review Questions	p. 115
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 115
Chapter 6 Advanced Starting and Charging Systems Diagnosis	p. 116
Learning Objectives	p. 116
Terms to Learn	p. 116
Purpose and Function of a Battery	p. 116
Battery Ratings	p. 117
Symptoms of a Weak or Defective Battery	p. 117
Battery Service Safety Considerations	p. 118
Battery Visual Inspection	p. 118
Battery Voltage Test	p. 119
Battery Load Testing	p. 121
Capacitance Testing	p. 122
Jump Starting	p. 122
Battery Charging	p. 123
Battery Service	p. 124
Battery Electrical Drain Test	p. 125
Battery Electrical Drain Testing Using an Ammeter	p. 128
Procedure for Battery Electrical Drain Test	p. 128
Finding the Source of the Drain	p. 129
What to Do If a Battery Drain Still Exists After All the Fuses Are Disconnected	p. 130
Cranking Circuit	p. 130
Diagnosing Starter Problems Using Visual Inspection	p. 133
Starter Testing on the Vehicle	p. 133
Testing a Starter Using a Scan Tool	p. 136
Voltage-Drop Testing	p. 137
Starter Drive-to-Flywheel Clearance	p. 142
How a Generator Works	p. 142
Generator Construction	p. 144
Checking Charging System Voltage	p. 144
Testing a Generator Using a Voltmeter	p. 146
Testing a Generator Using a Scan Tool	p. 147
AC Ripple Voltage Check	p. 148
AC Current Check	p. 150
Charging System Voltage-Drop Testing	p. 150
Generator Output Test	p. 152
How to Determine Minimum Required Generator Output	p. 153
Testing a Generator Using a Scope	p. 155
Hybrid Electric Vehicle Safety Issues	p. 156
Summary	p. 162
Review Questions	p. 162
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 162
Chapter 7 Ignition System Components and Operation	p. 164
Learning Objectives	p. 164
Terms to Learn	p. 164
Ignition System Operation	p. 164
Ignition Coils	p. 165
Switching and Triggering	p. 166
Primary Circuit Operation	p. 168
Distributor Ignition	p. 172
Waste-Spark Ignition Systems	p. 176
Ignition Control Circuits	p. 178
Compression Sensing Ignition	p. 180
Coil-on-Plug Ignition	p. 180
Ion-Sensing Ignition	p. 181
Ignition Timing	p. 182
Initial Timing	p. 182
Knock Sensors	p. 182
Spark Plugs	p. 184
Summary	p. 184
Review Questions	p. 185
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 185
Chapter 8 Ignition System Diagnosis and Service	p. 186
Learning Objectives	p. 186
Terms to Learn	p. 186
Checking for Spark	p. 186
Electronic Ignition Troubleshooting Procedure	p. 187
Ignition Coil Testing Using an Ohmmeter	p. 188
Pickup Coil Testing	p. 188
Testing Magnetic Sensors	p. 189
Testing Hall-Effect Sensors	p. 190
Testing Optical Sensors	p. 190
Ignition System Diagnosis Using Visual Inspection	p. 192
Testing for Poor Performance	p. 192
Testing for a No-Start Condition	p. 193
Ignition System Service	p. 194
Firing Order	p. 194
Distributor Cap and Rotor Inspection	p. 194
Spark Plug Wire Inspection	p. 196
Spark Plug Service	p. 197
Quick and Easy Secondary Ignition Tests	p. 200
Ignition Timing	p. 201
Scope-Testing the Ignition System	p. 205
Distributor Indexing	p. 213
Scope-Testing a Waste-Spark Ignition System	p. 214
Ignition System Troubleshooting Guide	p. 215
Summary	p. 218
Review Questions	p. 218
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 218
Chapter 9 Gasoline and Alternative Fuels	p. 220
Learning Objectives	p. 220
Terms to Learn	p. 220
Gasoline	p. 220
Volatility	p. 220
Distillation Curve	p. 222
Normal and Abnormal Combustion	p. 222
Octane Rating	p. 224
Gasoline Grades and Octane Number	p. 224
Regionally Blended Gasoline	p. 225
Octane Improvers	p. 230
Oxygenated Fuels	p. 230
Alcohol Additives-Advantages and Disadvantages	p. 231
Testing Gasoline for Alcohol Content	p. 232
Combustion Chemistry	p. 232
Air-Fuel Ratios	p. 233
High-Altitude Octane Requirements	p. 234
Valve Recession and Unleaded Fuel	p. 234
Reformulated Gasoline	p. 234
General Gasoline Recommendations	p. 235
Alternative Fuels	p. 236
Hybrid Electric Vehicles	p. 239
Fuel Cells	p. 240
Summary	p. 243
Review Questions	p. 244
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 244
Chapter 10 Temperature and Throttle Position Sensors Diagnosis	p. 245
Learning Objectives	p. 245
Terms to Learn	p. 245
Engine Coolant Temperature Sensors	p. 245
Stepped ECT Circuits	p. 246
Testing the Engine Coolant Temperature Sensor	p. 248
Intake Air Temperature Sensor	p. 252
Testing the Intake Air Temperature Sensor	p. 253
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor	p. 255
Temperature Sensor Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 256
Throttle Position Sensors	p. 257
TP Sensor Computer Input Functions	p. 258
PCM Uses for the TP Sensor	p. 258
Testing the Throttle Position Sensor	p. 259
Testing a TP Sensor Using the MIN/MAX Function	p. 260
Testing the TP Sensor Using a Scan Tool	p. 261
TP Sensor Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 261
Summary	p. 266
Review Questions	p. 266
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 266
Chapter 11 MAP and MAF Sensors Diagnosis	p. 268
Learning Objectives	p. 268
Terms to Learn	p. 265
Air Pressure-High and Low	p. 268
Principles of Pressure Sensors	p. 268
Construction of Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) Sensors	p. 270
Ceramic Disc MAP Sensor	p. 272
PCM Uses of the MAP Sensor	p. 272
Barometric Pressure Sensor	p. 274
Testing the Map Sensor Using a DMM	p. 275
Testing The MAP Sensor Using a Scan Tool	p. 276
Fuel-Rail Pressure Sensor	p. 276
MAP/BARO Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 276
Air Flow Sensors	p. 276
Analog and Digital MAF Sensors	p. 277
Mass Air Flow Sensor Types	p. 277
Karman Vortex Sensors	p. 279
PCM Uses for Air Flow Sensors	p. 280
Testing Mass Air Flow Sensors	p. 280
Summary	p. 283
Review Questions	p. 283
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 284
Chapter 12 Oxygen Sensor Diagnosis	p. 285
Learning Objectives	p. 285
Terms to Learn	p. 285
Oxygen Sensors	p. 285
Zirconia Oxygen Sensors	p. 287
Titania Oxygen Sensor	p. 288
Wide-Band Oxygen Sensors	p. 288
Closed Loop and Open Loop	p. 289
PCM Uses of the Oxygen Sensor	p. 289
Testing an Oxygen Sensor Using a Digital Voltmeter	p. 291
Testing the Oxygen Sensor Using the MIN/MAX Method	p. 293
Testing an Oxygen Sensor Using a Scan Tool	p. 294
Testing an Oxygen Sensor Using a Scope	p. 295
Oxygen Sensor Waveform Analysis	p. 298
Frequency	p. 299
Hash	p. 299
Classifications of Hash	p. 300
Hash Interpretation	p. 301
Negative O2S Voltage	p. 302
False O2S Readings	p. 302
Postcatalytic Converter Oxygen Sensor Testing	p. 303
Oxygen Sensor Inspection	p. 304
Oxygen Sensor-Related Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 305
Summary	p. 309
Review Questions	p. 309
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 309
Chapter 13 Fuel Delivery System Diagnosis	p. 311
Learning Objectives	p. 311
Terms to Learn	p. 311
Fuel Delivery System	p. 311
Fuel Supply System	p. 311
Electric Fuel Pumps	p. 314
Fuel Filters	p. 318
Fuel-Pump Testing	p. 320
Fuel-Pump Current Draw Test	p. 326
Fuel-Pump Current Ramping	p. 328
Fuel-Pump Replacement	p. 329
Fuel Supply-Related Diagnostic Trouble Codes	p. 330
Summary	p. 330
Review Questions	p. 331
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 331
Chapter 14 Fuel-Injection System Diagnosis and Service	p. 333
Learning Objectives	p. 333
Terms to Learn	p. 333
Port Fuel-Injection Pressure Regulator Diagnosis	p. 333
Diagnosing Electronic Fuel-Injection Problems Using Visual Inspection	p. 334
Scan Tool Vacuum Leak Diagnosis	p. 335
Port Fuel-Injection System Diagnosis	p. 335
Testing for an Injector Pulse	p. 336
Checking Fuel-Injector Resistance	p. 338
Measuring Resistance of Grouped Injectors	p. 346
Pressure-Drop Balance Test	p. 346
Injector Voltage Drop Test	p. 347
Exhaust Gas Balance Test	p. 348
Scope Testing Fuel Injectors	p. 348
Injector Current Ramping	p. 351
Idle Air Speed Control Diagnosis	p. 352
Fuel-Injection Service	p. 354
Fuel-System Scan Tool Diagnostics	p. 358
Summary	p. 364
Review Questions	p. 364
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 364
Chapter 15 Emission Control Devices Operation and Diagnosis	p. 366
Learning Objectives	p. 366
Terms to Learn	p. 366
Vehicle Emissions	p. 366
Need for Evaporative Emission Control	p. 367
Vapor Canister Storage	p. 368
Vapor Purging	p. 368
Evaporative Control Systems	p. 370
Enhanced Evaporative Control System	p. 370
Diagnosing the Evap System	p. 371
Locating Leaks in the System	p. 372
Evaporative System Monitor	p. 373
Exhaust Gas Recirculation Systems	p. 375
NO[subscript x] Formation	p. 375
Controlling NO[subscript x]	p. 375
EGR System Operation	p. 376
Positive and Negative Back Pressure EGR Valves	p. 376
Computer-Controlled EGR	p. 376
EGR Valve Position Sensors	p. 378
OBD II EGR Monitoring Strategies	p. 380
Diagnosing a Defective EGR System	p. 381
OBD II EGR System Monitor	p. 382
Crankcase Ventilation	p. 383
PCV Valves	p. 384
Orifice-Controlled Systems	p. 385
Positive Crankcase Ventilation (PCV) System Diagnosis	p. 385
PCV Monitor	p. 387
Air Pump System	p. 387
Air Distribution Manifolds and Nozzles	p. 388
Air Pump System Diagnosis	p. 391
Catalytic Converters	p. 392
Ceramic Monolith Catalytic Converter	p. 392
OBD II Catalytic Converter Performance	p. 394
Converter Damaging Conditions	p. 394
Diagnosing Catalytic Converters	p. 395
OBD II Catalytic Converter Monitor	p. 398
Catalytic Converter Replacement Guidelines	p. 398
Summary	p. 399
Review Questions	p. 399
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 399
Chapter 16 Exhaust Emission Testing	p. 401
Learning Objectives	p. 401
Terms to Learn	p. 401
Exhaust Analysis Testing	p. 401
Exhaust Analysis and Combustion Efficiency	p. 406
Baselining a Failed Vehicle	p. 409
What to Do After Baselining	p. 409
HC Too High	p. 409
CO Too High	p. 409
Measuring Oxygen (O[subscript 2]) and Carbon Dioxide (CO[subscript 2])	p. 410
Photochemical Smog Formation	p. 410
Testing for Oxides of Nitrogen	p. 411
Correcting High HC Emissions	p. 411
Correcting High CO Emissions	p. 412
Correcting High HC and CO Emissions	p. 412
Correcting High NO[subscript x] Emissions	p. 414
Summary	p. 421
Review Questions	p. 421
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 421
Chapter 17 Engine Condition Diagnosis	p. 423
Learning Objectives	p. 423
Terms to Learn	p. 423
Typical Engine-Related Complaints	p. 423
Engine Smoke Diagnosis	p. 423
Diesel Exhaust Smoke Diagnosis	p. 424
Engine Noise Diagnosis	p. 426
Oil Pressure Testing	p. 428
Oil Pressure Warning Lamp	p. 428
Compression Test	p. 428
Wet Compression Test	p. 430
Running (Dynamic) Compression Test	p. 430
Cylinder Leakage Test	p. 431
Cylinder Power Balance Test	p. 431
Power Balance Test Procedure	p. 432
HC Balance Test	p. 432
Relative Compression Test	p. 433
Vacuum Testing	p. 433
Exhaust Restriction Test	p. 435
Testing Back Pressure with a Vacuum Gauge	p. 437
Testing Back Pressure with a Pressure Gauge	p. 437
Timing Chain Slack Diagnosis	p. 437
Diagnosing Head Gasket Failure	p. 438
Dash Warning Lights	p. 439
Summary	p. 451
Review Questions	p. 451
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 451
Chapter 18 Symptom-Based Diagnosis	p. 453
Learning Objectives	p. 453
Terms to Learn	p. 453
Engine Hesitates, Sags, or Stumbles During Acceleration	p. 454
Rough Idle or Stalling	p. 456
Spark Knock (Ping or Detonation)	p. 458
Engine Cranks Okay, But Is Hard to Start	p. 458
Engine Does Not Crank or Cranks Slowly	p. 459
Poor Fuel Economy	p. 460
Dieseling or Run-On	p. 462
Backfire	p. 462
Lack of Power	p. 463
Surges	p. 464
Cuts Out or Misfires	p. 464
Rich Exhaust	p. 465
Lean Exhaust	p. 465
Symptoms of a Defective Component	p. 465
Excessive CO Exhaust Emissions	p. 466
Excessive HC Exhaust Emissions	p. 467
Excessive NO[subscript x] Exhaust Emissions	p. 468
Summary	p. 468
Review Questions	p. 469
ASE Certification-Type Questions	p. 469
Appendix 1 Sample Ase Engine Performance (A8) Certification Test	p. 472
Appendix 2 Sample Ase Advanced Level (L1) Engine Performance Certification Test	p. 478
Appendix 3 Engine Performance (A8) Ase Certification Test Correlation Chart	p. 489
Appendix 4 Engine Performance (A8) Natef Task List Correlation Chart	p. 493
English Glossary	p. 497
Spanish Glossary	p. 504
Index	p. 512

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Table of Contents