Maintaining, Changing Vw Brake Parts

Author: Benjamin Hudson

Maintaining and changing brakes on your own VW vehicle is not as hard as you may think. But, keep in mind that when you change your own brake pads, there are some other aspects that should be checked also to ensure that your brake pads are safe and dependable. If the brake pads or brake shoes are worn and need to be replaced, chances are other VW brake parts in the brake system may require attention too. The most obvious ones would be the brake rotors or drums and brake calipers or wheel cylinders. Both the front and rear brakes should be inspected.

A quality brake job should cover everything from the brake master cylinder where you add the brake fluid, to the calipers and wheel cylinders.

Changing the brakes include inspecting all the mechanical, hydraulic, and electrical components in both the front and rear brakes. If necessary, replace the front and rear brake pads. Then, inspect or replace brake rotors or disks.

Brake rotors require a clean, smooth, flat surface on the rotors. Otherwise your brake performance will suffer. A rough surface will accelerate pad wear. It will also increase the risk of noise. An uneven surface or variations in rotor thickness can cause vibrations, noise and annoying brake pedal pulsations. Brake drums that have grooves or any kind of damage should be replaced immediately. Sometimes, you cannot do all auto work by yourself. Your local auto parts store can help you turn the rotors for these discs to have extra life so you do not have to buy new.

The next thing to do is to check the level and condition of your brake fluid. Changing the fluid is recommended to get rid of moisture contamination. Always follow vehicle manufacturer’s recommendations.

Changing the brake pads is the next step. Remember that there are books at your local auto parts store, on eBay, and at any bookstore that you can also buy. These will give you step by step instructions along with picture illustrations as to how to change and maintain brake pads.

First off you need to purchase break pads, which are available from any local auto parts store. You can also purchase the pads from a dealer but they run a lot more than the local auto parts store. There are many different brands of brake pads but what you have to put on my vehicle are the ones that are considered lifetime. These run a little more, but the cost covers itself in the long run. The next time you do a break job you take the lifetime ones back in and they exchange them free of charge.

Do not hurry up. Take your time in familiarizing yourself with the brakes on your car before you begin work. It is also a good idea to work on one side at a time in case you have trouble. In that way, you have one side to use as a reference. Remember that your front brakes provide most of the stopping power for your vehicle.

Changing the front brake pads require setting of your parking brake, and block the rear tires so your vehicle will not move. Loosen the lug nuts. Using a jack, raise your vehicle and place it securely on jack stands. Then, remove the lug nuts and remove the wheel.

Now you can see the brake calipers holding the brake pads against the rotors. There are 2 pads in each wheel that squeeze the rotor. Unbolt the caliper mounting bolts and pull the caliper back from the rotor. Be careful not to bend or break the brake hose. Sometimes the caliper mounting bolts require you to use a Torx or Star bit instead of a normal socket set. These can also be purchased at your local auto parts store and an employee will help you to purchase the size that is just right for your VW vehicle. Plan ahead and make sure you have the right tools for the job to save you a trip back to the auto parts store.

After you remove the caliper, remove the front brake pad and leave the rear pad in place. Using a C-clamp, compress the caliper piston into the caliper housing. Make sure you remove the cap off the brake reservoir before you do this. This needs to be done so that when you put the new pads in the caliper, it will create a space to put the caliper back on.

Examine the break pads for unusual or uneven wear. These could be signs of a problem that need to be taken care of immediately.

While doing this, it is also a good time to examine the condition of the rotors. You will need to get the rotors turned or replaced if they have deep groves or if you have noticed that the car shudders when you hit the brakes.

Install the new pads in the caliper. Usually it is best to place the inner pad first, then the outer pad second. Before you install the pads back on to the caliper, make sure the piston is fully depressed. Once the pads are properly seated in the caliper, put the caliper back on the rotor and bolt it firmly in place.

If everything is correct, then you can put the wheel back on, hand tighten the lug nuts, and lower the car to the ground. Finish tightening the lug nuts in a start pattern so that they are even.

The last thing to do in doing a brake job is to test the brakes. Carefully check your brakes and brake fluid levels before entering traffic. Sometimes some air can get into the brake lines when you change the brake pads. If this happens, you will need to bleed the brakes before you try to move the car again.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/maintaining-changing-vw-brake-parts-142177.html

About the Author

Benjamin Hudson works as a supervisor at one of the top engineering firms in the business district of Louisiana. He is also a freelance journalist and has passion for anything automotive.

A Look at the Number of Bio Diesel Kits Available in the Market

Author: Muna wa Wanjiru

A bio diesel kit consists of bio diesel equipment and processors. The bio diesel kit provides you an easy way to produce bio diesel fuel and you can transfer clean oil with the help f pump provided in the kit. Bio diesel kit also contains instructions for the beginner. The main aim of bio diesel kit is to convert ordinary cooking oil or used oil to bio diesel easily and effectively. You need not pay additional sales tax for getting bio diesel kit. They are closed kit and so you can turn used vegetable oil to clean bio diesel safely. The installation procedure is also very simple that you may not require any electrician or other technicians.

There are number of bio diesel kits available in the market. You must consider some points before purchasing a bio diesel kit. You must research the kit carefully and must try producing bio diesel in small batch first. Though there are several bio diesel kits the closed bio diesel kit is the safest among them.

You can save time and energy with the help of bio diesel kit. The freedom fueler bio diesel kit is made up of steel and there will be no splashing or pouring here. So this kit is proved safe. The bio diesel kit also contains safety masks, gloves, dust masks etc. The mixing of methanol is made with the help of built in mechanism. It is a close system with 20 ventilations. You require using your hands for just 30 minutes for producing 40 gallons of fuel.

The freedom fueler deluxe bio diesel kit is safe and it has separate built in washing system. It also includes steel plumbing. It removes bad batches. The unwashed bio diesel can be obtained within 1 day. It is the most complete bio diesel kit that requires no assembly work or installation procedures.

4 gallon bio diesel starter kit will allow you to get clean bio diesel within 24 hours. It has drain valve and proper built in ventilation. The bio diesel kit has separate wash system where you can wash your bio diesel without water or magnesol. This kit also has safety first kits like gloves, dust masks etc. the bio diesel starter kit is ideal for those who are interested in starting bio diesel production. This will help them to make a trial before spending thousands in investing in bio diesel processors.

80 gallon bio deluxe with dry wash is a bio diesel kit which helps to convert any used vegetable oil into bio diesel in 14 hours. The built in dry wash mechanism cleans bio diesel with out the help of water. There are no hand pumps. You can utilize the timer attached with this kit to set the time. The bio diesel kit does not require any assembly work. It is easy to install.

The 150 gallon deluxe with dry wash is another bio diesel kit that can be used in producing 150 gallons of bio diesel per batch. You can produce high quality bio diesel without water with the help of this bio diesel kit.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/technology-articles/a-look-at-the-number-of-bio-diesel-kits-available-in-the-market-310535.html

About the Author

Muna wa Wanjiru Has Been Researching and Reporting on Biodiesel for Years. For More Information on Bio Diesel Kit, Visit His Site at BIO DIESEL KIT

Is The Propane Generator Better Than a Gasoline or Diesel Generator?

Author: Joe Elliot

Learn why the propane generator is becoming the standard for standby generators. The decision on what kind of standby generator to purchase can seemingly be a tough one. With so many types of generators, brands and makes and models, the average consumer is left scratching their head for a long time. To compound the matter, for most homeowners, this is the first time they have purchased this type of a major item. Not to worry though, we are going to help you make the right decision the first time around. For starters there are a number of ways to power generators, you can use diesel fuel, gasoline, the wind, biofuels, natural gas and of course propane.

When we compare the various types of generators, it is easy to see why the propane generator rises to the top of the list as being the best choice for a standby generator. For starters, one gigantic advantage propane generators has over all other generators is its fuel capacity. A propane residential standby generator has fuel tanks that allow it to provide anywhere from two days of backup power all the way up to twelve days or more of backup power. You simply cannot get that type of capacity out of gasoline or diesel generators without constant refueling.

That advantage becomes apparent when a power outage strikes and lasts more than two days. If you recall in the 2009 Ice Storm, particularly in the north and on the east coast, we were hit with some pretty frigid weather that kept many homeowners without power for weeks at a time. If you're keeping notes, the first primary advantage the propane generator has over the other types of generators is its greater fuel capacity.

The second major advantage the propane generator has over the other types of generators is this; the only place to acquire gasoline or diesel fuel is from gas stations. You can acquire propane from gas stations, independent propane dealers, from grocery stores including Walmart and from stores such as Home Depot, Lowe's and other builder outlets. The cylinders that the propane is stored in can either be re-fueled or traded in for new cylinders. A homeowner can even opt to have a propane dealer deliver their fuel. This advantage gives a homeowner numerous options so that they are never without fuel.

The third major advantage a propane generator has over the other types of generators is the cost of fuel. Propane offers an immediate economic stimulus since it is the least expensive fuel available for generators aside from the wind of course! Those three advantages makes choosing a propane generator the best choice for discerning buyers.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/tools-and-equipment-articles/is-the-propane-generator-better-than-a-gasoline-or-diesel-generator-884691.html

About the Author

To find your propane generator in a hurry. Click here: Propane Generator.

What We HAVE: Unbiased reviews, information and prices, on virtually every generator on the market. Got a question about generators? Why waste hours searching the web, when you can find ALL of YOUR ANSWERS and solutions at the home of the GENERATOR PROS.

WHO It’s For: ANYONE needing help figuring out the type, brand and size generator they need? ANYONE with questions about certain Generator Brands, makes and models.

How To GET IT: Simply click on the: find a Portable Generator and relax, because you will find what you’re looking for!

Troy Bilt Snowblowers: Built To Be The Best

Author: Mark van Tuel

Durable and powerful, that's how you can describe Troy Bilt snowblowers. Troy Bilt is, with no questioning necessary, definitely one of the most popular and most trusted brands of snow blowers. The brand has managed to establish a trustworthy platform in the market of snow blowers. Several consumers have learned to rely on the function and capabilities of Troy Bilt snow machines. Troy Bilt is just one of the many brands that offer snow blowers but their powerful models definitely stand out from the crowd.

Troy Bilt for Moderate Snow

Troy Bilt provides consumers with several choices when it comes to buying snow blowers. The brand supports two main types of snow blowers, namely the moderate-duty ones and the heavy-duty ones. The moderate-duty snow blowers are best for single driveways but also have enough power to clear snow from double driveways. As long as your snow coverage is anywhere between six and twelve inches, you can use a Troy Bilt snow blower.  Common features that can be found on the moderate-duty snow blowers from Troy Bilt include steel augers that can easily break through hard snow and ice.

The models also come with a high-speed impeller that gives the machines an added power to push snow out the discharge chute. One of the models under this category is the 60-3759 with a 14.5 GT 305cc OHV engine and a 28 inches clearing width. This is a two-stage snow blower that features a tall chute and a 4-way joystick for easy controlling. Its engine is a Briggs and Stratton winterized piece which means you have a pretty reliable engine powering up the entire machine. Its intake height is 21 inches and it has six forward and two reverse speeds. The machine is also easy to operate, with its electric start. But for flexibility, the model still comes with a manual back-up starter. Other features include a steerable wheel drive, heated handles, single-hand controls, Poly slide shoes for driveway or floor protection, 12-inch Xtreme augers, 4-shear pin auger design, 12-inch impeller, 16" x 6.5" X-Trac tires for safe and steady traction. The handles are also foldable and the machine comes with built-in headlights. In short, this two-stage snowblower is definitely a great solution for your snow clearing needs.

If you find it a bit expensive, check out the 208cc OHV model with a PowerMore OHV winterized engine, 24 inches of clearing width, and 21 inches of intake height. The machine comes with 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds, an electric start, a taller chute that resists cracking, denting, or rusting, and heated handle grips. This snow blower is easy to operate with its steerable wheel drive and single-hand controls. The machine features pretty much the same range of features of the previous model but the tires and augers are of smaller sizes.

Troy Bilt for Heavy Snow                               

Heavy snow is also not a concern to worry with Troy Bilt snowblowers. Troy Bilt provides a heavy-duty line of products for heavy snow coverage. These products are engineered and packed with more features and more power to do the job required. One classic example of such a model is the Large-Frame Two-Stage Snow Blower, which comes with an electric start, a steerable wheel drive, 16.5 GT 342cc Briggs and Stratton OHV winterized engine for energy efficiency, and a quiet operation. It has a 45-inch clearing width and a 22-inch intake height. While using this machine, you can also choose from 6 forward and 2 reverse speeds and get assistance from the dual in-dash yard lights and tool-less drift cutters. This model also features a tilt and crank remote chute that can be aimed in various directions. This Troy Bilt model also wins hands down with its 16" impeller, which is known as the largest size possible in Canada.

Pros: Briggs and Stratton OHV winterized engines, electric start, tall chutes, heated handles, Xtreme augers, X-Trac tires, and poly slide shoes.

Cons: Prices may be a bit higher than those of other brands.

The Verdict

Troy Bilt has built a strong and well-recognized reputation in the industry.

You can find more about Troy Built Snowblowers on our Best Snow Blower Reviews website.

Copyright 2009 Snow-blower-guide.com, all rights reserved.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/tools-and-equipment-articles/troy-bilt-snowblowers-built-to-be-the-best-793000.html

About the Author

Mark is the editor Snow-blower-guide.com which Provides you with the best coffee snow blower reviews and ratings. You can find more about Troy Built Snowblowers on our Best Snow Blower Reviews website.

Diesel Jeans And So Much More

Author: Terro White

Diesel is of course most known for their unique brand of jeans. Diesel does actually have quite a few other types of clothing as well as accessories to offer in addition to their popular line of jeans. They offer a vast selection of other items to choose from, including intimate apparel, bags and shoes, jewelry, sunglasses and even fragrances.

In their intimate apparel section, you will be able to find a vast selection of under garments for both men and women. Playful or casual, you can find a great selection of bras and panties in addition to boxers as well as briefs. There are several different styles and colors to choose from.

You can find a vast selection of hand bags in the Diesel collection. Big or small, wallets or back packs, you will be able to find anything in between to haul around your personal effects. They offer purses with shoulder straps as well as cute little handbags. You can find purses that even offer both options. These purses live up to the Diesel brand and are unique and fun as well as sturdy and reliable.

Diesel has a nice collection of shoes as well. For both men and women, you will be able to find both casual and dress shoes. For women, there are boots, heels, sandals, and cute sneakers. You can even find shoes that are made entirely out of denim. They also offer boots and sneakers for men as well. These of course will all look great with a pair of Diesel jeans.

Bracelets, rings, necklaces and anything in between is provided in the Diesel jewelry line. You can find a great selection of fun and stylish jewelry that will look good with anything in your closet, especially a pair of Diesel Jeans.

No matter what style of sunglasses you like, Diesel can provide it to you. They have the big and fun sunglasses that you see most celebrities wearing. You can even find the styles from the eighties that are making their way back out into the scene. Aviators with several different shades can also be found in this collection.

Diesel fragrances, like all of their items, are sold worldwide. Depending on which part of the world you live in, you will have a different selection from other countries and areas.

In addition to all of the previously mentioned items, they also sell watches. Available in both men and women's styles, you will be able to find a great selection of unique and one of a kind watches with the Diesel brand.

Do not forget that there is a kids Diesel line that is also available. This ensures that no matter what your age or gender, you will be able to enjoy the Diesel brand. You can find a large selection for any season for both children and adults. With Diesel brand, you should not stop at just diesel jeans, allow them to dress you from head to toe.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/shopping-articles/diesel-jeans-and-so-much-more-1454601.html

About the Author

To find a great selection of Diesel brand jeans as well as other brands such as lyle and scott, go online and search for atticclothing.com

SUV Mahindra Scorpio’s fuel efficient and quieter mHAWK Common Rail Diesel Engine

Author: Murtaza. Soni

Check out the powerhouse SUV with Common Rail Diesel Engine - Mahindra Scorpio

Mahindra Scorpio, the SUV model from the leaders in Utility Vehicles in India Mahindra & Mahindra, features the 2.2 litre, 4-cylinder mHAWK diesel engine. It is this mHAWK engine that makes the Scorpio the powerhouse that it is. It propels the Scorpio from 0 to 60 in 5.7 seconds producing a whopping 120 bhp of power. The mHAWK engine of Scorpio is a common Rail Diesel Engine (CRDe).

The Common Rail Diesel Engine works on the ‘Common Rail Direct Fuel Injection’ technology. It consists of a high-pressure fuel rail feeding individual solenoid valves. The more recent Third Generation common rail diesels feature piezoelectric injectors for increased precision, with fuel pressures up to 1,800 bars or 26,000 psi.

The Common Rail Diesel engine has two main advantages over the conventional diesel engine. It helps in lowering down exhaust emissions to a great extent and it also lowers down engine noise.

A fuel rail is essentially a pipe (resembling a rail) to which the fuel is delivered and maintained at a very high pressure of about 1800 bar. This fuel is then delivered to individual fuel injectors on internal combustion engine. During the firing sequence of a particular cylinder, the high pressure, electronically operated injector will be opened and fuel with a pressure of about 1800 bar is injected in to the cylinder. This leads to improved atomization of the fuel in the cylinders. This high pressure fuel cloud leads to complete combustion of the fuel, thus avoiding emission.

The rapid speed at which the injectors can switch makes it possible to reduce the intervals between injections and split the quantity of fuel delivered into a large number of separate injections for each combustion stroke. Diesel engines become even quieter, more fuel efficient, cleaner and more powerful.

Check out the powerhouse SUV with Common Rail Diesel Engine - Mahindra Scorpio

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/suvs-articles/suv-mahindra-scorpios-fuel-efficient-and-quieter-mhawk-common-rail-diesel-engine-1033903.html

About the Author

web designing firm www.mycompwebmedia.com

Audi Changes Diesel Perception

Author: Lauren Woods

In the largest auto market in the world, diesel engines are making a comeback. In the 80’s, Oldsmobile introduced a diesel engine in the United States auto market. Unfortunately, the designers of the engine seem to have forgotten to make the engine less noisy and produce less black soot. Its noisy operation and unnaturally black soot emissions led to the unpopularity of diesel engines among American auto buyers.

The present generation of diesel engines though does not have those unpleasant attributes of past diesel engines. Leading the way in the development of cleaner and better diesel engines is German luxury automaker Audi. The Volkswagen AG-owned, Ingolstadt, Bavaria-based automaker has even fielded a diesel engine-powered race car at the prestigious 24 Hours of Le Mans and has already won twice with the diesel powered racecar.

This achievements made by Audi is promoting the use of diesel engines not only in Europe but also in the United States. In Europe, diesel powered luxury cars are not rare. In other countries especially in Asia, diesel engines are widely used because diesel fuel is usually priced lower than gasoline. But in the United States, the reputation of the diesel engines of the 80s has led Americans to stir clear of diesel engines.

While this perception is deeply ingrained in the minds of auto buyers, automakers are pushing through with their plans to develop clean diesel engines for the United States auto market. Ford has already introduced the F-Super Duty with its diesel engine manufactured by Navistar. General Motors is also joining the bandwagon as it is in the process of acquiring an Italian diesel engine manufacturer.

But Audi has outdone both Ford and General Motors in exhibiting the potential of diesel engines. At this year’s staging of the 24 Hours of Le Mans, Audi’s R10, the diesel powered racecar outpaced all gasoline-powered cars fielded in the event. With its huge torque output, it can outpace even the APC cold air intake-equipped R8.

The performance of the R10 is complemented by its significantly lower operating noise compared to gasoline-engined racecars. During downshifting, which occurs as the drivers turn corners, gasoline powered cars tends to produce a lot of noise which is usually accompanied with the sound of a backfiring engine. The R10 though produces none of that as it is designed to produce lesser noise especially during downshifts.

The dominance of diesel cars at this year’s 24 Hours of Le Mans is not only shown by the Audi R10. In fact, aside from Audi, Renault also fielded a diesel-powered racecar at this year’s event after its gasoline-powered entry last year was beaten soundly by Audi’s diesel car. While Audi’s R10 took the win, Renault’s own diesel racecar finished second leaving behind the rest of the gasoline-powered field of cars.

The success of the Audi and Renault diesel racecars has surely opened the eyes of some Americans who still remember the forgettable diesel engines of the past decades. As the call for more fuel efficient vehicles increases, the success enjoyed by Audi’s diesel racecars will go a long way in promoting the use of diesel engines which are considered more fuel efficient than gasoline engines. The price of diesel which is lower than gasoline can also serve as a reason for auto buyers to prefer diesel vehicles than gasoline ones in the future.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/audi-changes-diesel-perception-187492.html

About the Author

Given her background on cars as an auto insurance director, Lauren Woods finds the world of cars to be constantly changing.

What Car Will Suit You Best?

Author: Bruce Fisher

Diesel Versus Gasoline Engine. The major considerations here are economic: initial investment, cost of fuel, cost of maintenance, cost of repairs, and depreciated market trade value. A diesel engine is not the ideal car for a weekend backyard mechanic. It requires special tools and special knowledge to repair, which means taking it to a garage or service department after warranty expiration. And there are not that many qualified diesel mechanics around, which means you pay more for labor.

The higher initial investment must be weighed against the length of ownership; in other words, will you get extra time and miles for having paid more? The lower cost of fuel and scheduled maintenance items must be brought into perspective, as must diesel durability. The projected life of a diesel is about double the life of a same-size gasoline engine pulling the same load. If you plan to buy the car and drive it until it drops, consider the diesel for longevity, if for nothing else. If you plan to keep the car for 1 or 2 years, consider the gasoline engine.

You must be careful with diesel selection, for there are two types: state-of-the-art, and gasoline engine conversions. State-of-the-art is more durable than its weaker, thin-skinned gasoline engine conversions. Finally, you are restricted in model selection, size, and style when considering the diesel. Not everyone makes a diesel.

Automatic Versus Standard Shift Transmission. You gain more economic benefits with the standard shift transmission because it gives a lower initial cost and greater fuel economy. However, some models offer only the automatic transmission, so if you favor the standard, your model selection will be restricted. The greatest advantage to the automatic is that anyone who can drive a car can drive one

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/what-car-will-suit-you-best-1916865.html

About the Author

Bruce Fisher. Are you in the process of buying car? Join our Car Club and share your knowledge.

Auto Parts That Are Popular

Author: Marilyn Taylor

Any vehicle can be upgraded with performance auto parts and power tool accessories, and what parts you use will largely be dependant on what type of vehicle you drive and exactly what results you are looking for. Everyone has their own opinion as to what constitutes the best and greatest performance parts, so you will need to do some research into the subject to make up your own mind.

There has been an increase in demand for performance auto parts and power tool accessories and the industry has ballooned in answer to this. Some companies specialize to attract particular clientele, like hot-rods, and others are general performance parts suppliers. Enthusiasts are looking for different parts, based on their interests – hot rod enthusiasts will be looking for totally different performance parts to monster truck guys. There is something for every vehicle, whether it be styling accessories or systems for increased power or handling.

The range of performance auto parts is wide, and so are the brand names. Again, everyone has their own opinion and favorite brands. Ask around and talk to lots of people about what brand is best for what type of gear. Personal testimonials are the best form of advertising; try and talk to people who are making similar modifications as you as well as with power tool accessories.

One of the top four performance parts would have to be the air filter. Conventional air filters clog up quickly and have to be replaced many times in the life of the vehicle. A high performance air filter will give you increased air flow which in turn will give you more power and better economy. You can also get a reusable air filter, which you can wash and reuse; you get the improved air flow and you don't add to pollution in landfills.

Spark plugs are another part that can reduce vehicle performance by giving incomplete fuel combustion. High performance spark plugs give you maximum power as well as better fuel efficiency. NGK have been making spark plugs since the 1930s are most enthusiasts will only use this brand.

High performance exhaust systems use a "catalyst-back" system, known as a cat-back, which frees up torque and increases horsepower. The cat-back exhaust system consists of wider exhaust pipes with low-restriction mufflers to lessen the back pressure. You will love the great noise they make too.

A cold air intake unit will lower the temperature of incoming air to increase the power of the engine. One of these will look really good in your engine bay as they are interesting and colorful. New cars are equipped with computer chips that make complicated calculations regarding torque and horsepower. You can upgrade the current chip in your car, or you could buy a new high performance chip, to improve the available horsepower.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/automotive-articles/auto-parts-that-are-popular-2088122.html

About the Author

How Diesel Tuning Systems Work..

Author: Anna Barrington

Traditionally the diesel engine was both slow and noisy, suitable only for tractors, trucks and ships, but the trend in recent years has been for high performance diesels to take a large proportion of the car market away from the petrol engine car. Part of this change was the evolution of the high performance turbo diesel, and the popularity of these vehicles has been further improved by a healthy market for performance parts available to the Diesel performance tuning enthusiast.

One popular option has been the remapping of the fuel injection and ignition system using a variety of techniques to get the best performance out an engine without resorting to the cost of physically tuning the engine of the car.  A factor behind this appears to be the deliberate de-tuning of many cars by the manufacturers, supposedly for reasons of economy, but some say more cynically to leave a niche in the market for higher performance petrol models.

Here we take a quick look at how the remapping system works, and the general effects on a typical diesel engine.

A modern diesel engine's functioning is almost completely controlled by the electronic system that manages the fuel injection and ignition functions.  These systems have a number of sensors which are controlled by the vehicles ECU.  These signals are processed many thousands of times each second to keep the vehicle running at its optimum efficiency, and also to keep the engine's emissions at acceptable levels.

The idea behind a diesel tuning box is to intercept the signal between the ECU and the injection system, and basically allows it to inject a more optimal amount of fuel into the cylinders thus producing more torque and power.  Because of this the engine runs more efficiently.  Fuel economy is also improved because you would have to use less throttle to achieve the same performance level, and because the engine is tuned to burn its fuel more efficiently.

To understand how the tuning box works it is important to understand the workings of a diesel engine.  

In a diesel engine it is only air that is drawn into the compression cylinder.  This is then compressed and reaches a very high temperature. When the piston is nearing the top of its stroke fuel is injected into the combustion chamber and ignites due to the high temperature of the air.  This creates the power to drive the piston down, turning the crankshaft and wheels.

Often there is unused air left in the cylinder after the combustion completes:   sometimes as much as 50% of what was drawn in to the engine.  Simply speaking when the correct amount of extra fuel is injected into the chamber more torque and power and is created. 

The ìcommon railî is the central container which delivers the individual injectors with the fuel.  The three essential components of a fuel injection system:  Pressure, injection and generation are separated, and fuel can be stored at high pressure in the ëcommon railí container.  This allows high injection pressure even at slow speeds and provides a fine atomisation of the fuel, which gives a cleaner combustion.  The supply of fuel is not related to the engine speed as it is controlled independently at every point along the way improving efficiency.  

So in the modern common rail system engine there is greater opportunity to control fuel injection at the pre-injection stage. The main vehicle's engine control unit  (ECU) is the brain of the system, which opens each injector electronically, these signals are processed many thousands of times in one second to maintain that the vehicle is running at its optimum efficiency and keeping the emissions and economy at acceptable levels.  The ECU contains a ìmapî which tells the fuel injection system, for every engine speed and setting, how much fuel to inject into the engine.

A similar unit is usually used to tune a large number of diesel vehicles but different settings are uploaded into the unit.  

When the box is plugged into your vehicle it will analyse the ECU signals and alter them.  This allows changes in injector opening times which increase or decrease the fuel rate to exactly the right amount, thus producing more torque and power. 

Using latest digital diesel tuning technology an electronic control unit can give a driving performance so individual that it as though the original control unit software has been completely changed.  Four to eight ignition maps are placed in the memory for the first time that then go into action according to your required driving performance. This means the optimal matching of all control parameters at every level of performance. 

A further novelty is the ability of the systems to adapt to the individual characteristics of your vehicle.  

Over a short running-in period, the memory function detects the individual data for the differing fuel injection cycles. The information gained in this way provides the basis for the optimization. The tolerances are then balanced and an optimal result is achieved with every vehicle without having to make any time consuming adjustments by hand. 

An enhanced ignition map leads to raised levels of efficiency, which in turn leads to reduced fuel consumption. The increase in torque facilitates a driving performance that requires fewer revs per minute and less accelerator pressure to achieve a given acceleration, therefore significantly lowering levels of fuel consumption.   Thus efficient diesel tuning can be seen to improve both the performance and the economy of a modern diesel engine.

Article Source: http://www.articlesbase.com/cars-articles/how-diesel-tuning-systems-work-730375.html

About the Author

Anna Barrington writes for DTE Diesel Tuning. For more information about this please visit DTE Diesel Tuning..