Charging System Diagnosis: Start With the Alternator

Denso suggests that when a vehicle is brought in with a charging system complaint to first check alternator performance.

If an alternator test bench is available, follow the procedures found on the bench tester’s instruction manual to conduct an alternator performance test. This test will determine if the alternator’s output is within performance specifications.

If the output is within specifications during the bench test, resolve problems in the remainder of the vehicle’s charging circuit and other electrical circuit that may affect charging circuit performance. Refer to the vehicle manufacturer’s service manual for the proper procedures to follow to identify and correct charging circuit problems.

If the bench test results show the alternator output is out of specification, replace it. Follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended procedure for inspecting the remainder of the charging circuit and other electrical circuits that may affect charging circuit performance.

If the alternator you are testing has an internal regulator, and the bench test identified the regulator as defective, it may be possible to replace the internal regulator and return the alternator to service. If the regulator is replaced and the alternator returned to service, follow the vehicle manufacturer’s recommended procedure to inspect the remainder of the charging system and other electrical circuits that may affect charging circuit performance.

Fifth Wheel Cylinder Kit Installation

Use the following procedure when installing an air actuated fifth wheel cylinder kit on Fontaine Ultra LT series fifth wheels.

• Remove the fifth wheel from the mounting bracket. Fontaine advises cleaning the fifth wheel prior to installing the kit.
• Place the fifth wheel in the upside down position making sure the wheel is placed on a suitable work surface.
• Remove the pull handle spring from the fifth wheel. (See Figure 1.)
• Install the exhaust valve into the air cylinder. (See Figure 2.) Make sure the exhaust valve is oriented properly.
• Install the new air cylinder making sure it is oriented properly. (See Figure 3.)
• Reinstall the fifth wheel back on the mounting brackets..
• Insert the air supply line into the quick disconnect on the exhaust valve.
• Open and close the fifth wheel using the air cylinder to ensure proper function.
• Tilt the fifth wheel forward to ensure that the cylinder and air supply lien does not interfere with another component.

Impact vs. Chrome Sockets

Chrome hand sockets and impact sockets have many differences that go beyond just appearance, according to Snap-on Tools, and each is designed and manufactured for specific applications.

For instance, a technician should never use a chrome hand socket on an impact gun – only use impact sockets. The impact socket has thick walls and is finished in a black phosphate or black oxide finish. Impact sockets also have a cross hole in the handle end for use with a retaining pin and ring or locking pin anvil to allow the socket to be securely attached to the square drive of an impact gun.

Power sockets, designed for use with power nut runners, multi-spindle machines and angle head nut drivers, may cause some confusion since they are offered in a black finish. But, Snap-on notes, they are stamped “WARNING: NON-IMPACT.”  Power sockets are heat treated to a higher hardness than either impact or hand sockets. According to Snap-on, this high hardness, combined with thick socket walls, produces a strong, wear resistant socket. This socket is suited for assembly-line work where it is not subjected to high-impact loads.

Hand sockets have a thin wall which allows for clearance in general applications where hand torquing is used. Hand sockets, except for those intended for industrial use, are chrome plated. Although hand sockets and power sockets can fit the impact wrench, they are not the same and must not be used on impact tools, Snap-on warns.

One difference you can’t see between these two types of sockets has to do with the way each has been heat treated and/or the composition of the metal used. The impact socket made out of medium carbon alloy steel is heat treated to a low hardness range which has been optimized for impact use. This means that under heavy, continuous use, an impact socket will withstand the impact blows and will wear rather than break.

Hand sockets are made of medium carbon alloy steel that is heat treated to a hardness range commensurate with their size and configuration. Hand sockets are heat treated to a comparatively higher hardness for high strength and more wear resistance than impact sockets. But, they are made to sustain hand applied torque applications only.

Using only impact sockets on impact wrenches reduces the risk of injury, delays and damaged work. It’s relatively easy to spot a hand socket that’s been misused on an impact wrench, Snap-on says. Check the square drive end for signs of damage and distortion. Cracks and other damage often will appear around the wrench end as well.

Improperly using hand sockets on impact tools may be hazardous as they may crack. By knowing the difference between the various types of sockets and using them appropriately, you will be able to ensure a safer and more efficient work environment.

Sliding Pins and Bolts for Disc Brakes

For standardization reasons, reducing the number of spare parts and simplifying the handling of spare parts, Haldex changed the sliding pin and bolt design on is ModulX disc brake.

The modification to the sliding pin is internal and is basically a change in machining concentration to where the bolt head flange meets the sliding pin edge (as shown in Figures 1 and 2). There is no effect on other components. The modified sliding pin is asymmetric, but it is not possible to fit the pin and bolt incorrectly since the bolt can only be entered into the pin from one direction.

To meet the changed sliding pin mechanism, the attachment bolt is modified in design. The most noticeable change is a greater flange on the new bolt head.

The old bolt head (Figure 1) is tightened to 162 ft.-lbs. and the new bolt (Figure 2) is tightened to 206 ft.-lbs.

The new sliding pin cannot be used with the old bolt and vice versa.

Replace Damaged VacValves

According to Donaldson, the Vacuator Valve, standard on the majority of its air cleaners, is an important part of the functionality of the air cleaner during the pre-cleaning stage.

If the VacValve is cracked, torn, remains open or is missing, dust particles that normally are expelled can deposit themselves onto the filter and will shorten air filter service life. If the valve is cracked, torn, remains open or is missing, replace it.

For proper operation, the VavValve should be located at the lowest point on the air cleaner or with the dust cup pointing down.