WIDE BAND SENSORS / UNDERSTANDING THE LATEST IN FEEDBACK TECHNOLOGY
They appear in our trade magazines, diagnostic aids and online chats under many names: Oxygen Sensor, LAF, UEGO, A/F Sensor, Lambda Sensor, Planar, Wide Band or Wide Ratio Sensor. The list seems to go on ad infinitum. No matter what we call them, their function remains the same, to aid the computer in getting the most out of every drop of fuel.
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DIESEL PARTICULATE FILTER DIAGNOSIS
In our last Tech Bulletin “OBD II and the New Clean Diesel” we took the opportunity to start a dialog about the most recent advances in diesel diagnostics. We discussed the expansion of OBD II into the diesel world and some of the issues it might present for those of us in the aftermarket. We will now expand this discussion and focus on one aspect of the after-treatment system – the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF).
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OBDII AND THE NEW CLEAN DIESEL
About a year ago we offered up two Tech Bulletins with new Diesels as the topic. TB-80019 (Feb 2010) dealt with new Diesel regulations while TB-80021 (April 2010) was dedicated to after-treatment systems. The talk today in all parts of the automotive world is that of fuel and powertrain alternatives and certainly new clean diesel must be part of that conversation.
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FUEL ADDITIVES AND COMBUSTION SYSTEM CLEANERS
We get many inquiries on our Tech Line about performance related products. One of the most common and one that I get
quite often at my Diagnostic Training seminars concerns products that claim to “clean the catalytic converter”. Now I am not an
“additive kind of guy” but I will do my best to put a positive spin on this subject.
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2011 YEAR END REVIEW
It’s that time of year again. The Holiday Season is in full swing. There is much anticipation of what is to come for 2012 and of course an opportunity to look back at 2011. There will be many articles written, retrospective news shows and year end reviews, serious and not-so-serious. So WHY should we be any different!! Let’s take a look at where we have been and where we are going.
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ENGINE MANAGEMENT AND EXHAUST MODIFICATION
I can imagine that on the day the first Model T rolled off the assembly line there was someone in the crowd of curious onlookers wondering … how can we make it go faster? Well it wasn’t long before someone put that question to the test. All through the history of the automobile we have tinkered, modified, fabricated and changed it to suit our needs or personal preference.
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OBD II CODE DIAGNOSIS PART III
In the first part of this OBD II Code Diagnosis series I stated that we would discuss the principles of OBD II codes and breakdown each character that defines them. For a generic discussion of OBD I’ll refer you to TB-80016 and 80017. We archive all of our bulletins and they can be found on our website at www.maganaflow.com. Look for Tech Bulletins under Tech Support. For this series I would like to stay on a more specific path.
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OBD II CODE DIAGNOSIS PART II
As promised in last month’s bulletin, we will focus this issue on diagnosing a Ford with a P0401, EGR Low Flow code.
At first glance the task may seem long and difficult. Let’s see how fast we can get to a diagnosis.
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OBD II CODE DIAGNOSIS
If you have ever attended one of my classes you may have heard me quote an Instructor/Colleague of mine as saying “…If all you do is, replace components for codes set, you will be lucky if you fix 20% of the cars”. That was 20 years ago… it still rings true today!
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MODE $06 DIAGNOSTICS
One of the most interesting aspects of our OBD II and Catalytic Converter training classes is the need to constantly update the material. It is, as they say, “the nature of the BEAST”.
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CAFÉ REAL OR UNREALIZED
Corporate Average Fuel Economy (CAFÉ) has been a part of the automotive landscape for over 30 years. It has, either through the written word or interpretation, affected our industry in more ways than most realize. In an effort to comply with this Federal regulation new vehicle manufacturers compromised performance, styling and safety.
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PROPER AIR/FUEL RATIO. HOW DO WE GET IT? PART IV
For the final segment of this discussion we’ll look at engine exhaust and all of its components. As mentioned in the discussion of getting the proper amount of air into the cylinder (Part II), at some point we would have to expel that air out of the cylinder to get ready for the next event. We are now at that point.
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PROPER AIR/FUEL RATIO. HOW DO WE GET IT? PART III
In parts I & II of 'Proper Air/Fuel Ratio' we discussed getting Fuel and Air to the combustion chamber. Now we will see how the computer pulls it all together and how this all affects our diagnostic routines.
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REPLACING A CONVERTER - BECOME AN EXPERT
As a shop owner, service manager or technician, you get this question all the time. When it comes time to replace a catalytic converter you are faced with many choices to offer your customer. The number of choices including original equipment, various grades of aftermarket and re-manufactured (illegal in some states) can leave you bewildered as to what to recommend. A look at today’s vehicles and how OBD II engine management technology has evolved can help shorten the list.
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PROPER AIR/FUEL RATIO - HOW DO WE GET IT? Part II
As promised we will continue this month with our in-depth look into Air/Fuel Ratio. In the last bulletin we discussed the fuel component and all variables involved in maintaining good fuel flow. This issue will concentrate on Air Flow to the cylinders. We’ll reserve the subject of exhausting the air for another article.
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PROPER AIR/FUEL RATIO - HOW DO WE GET IT?
In this forum we have spent a great deal of time talking about air/fuel ratio and the role it plays in catalytic converter effectiveness. In the next couple of bulletins we will break down this combination and examine what factors contribute to air/fuel ratio variations.
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MORE ON SCAN TOOLS
Last month, as part of our continuing program of Tech Support for the industry, we produced a “Scan Tool List”. This was in response to several requests we have been receiving from many of our customers. This month we would like to expand that discussion with some “Tips and Tricks” for getting the right tool for your specific needs.
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SCAN TOOL LIST
As a direct result of Magnaflow’s stepped up Training Program, we have been getting numerous requests for information concerning the purchase of scan tools. Below is a short list of companies offering a wide range of code readers, scanners and full function diagnostic tools. The list is confined to self-contained scanners and does not include PC based software applications of which there are a number of available applications. Feel free to contact Gary with any questions or concerns.
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TRAINING AND THE BOTTOM LINE
Last month in “Getting the Most from Tech Support”, we briefly touched on Technical Training and the many ways it has changed over the years. In this bulletin I would like to talk about the different avenues available to acquire training but also the importance and the need for such training.
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GETTING THE MOST FROM TECH SUPPORT
The tools we use during the diagnosis of any problem with a vehicle have become numerous indeed. From the tool box they range from the simple to the complex. Hammers, wrenches and screwdrivers to volt meters, scan tools and scopes. Of all the tools at our disposal, Tech Support can be the most valuable.
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DIESEL AFTER-TREATMENT SYSTEMS
A couple of months back we opened the window to Diesel emission regulation and control. To continue that discussion, we will focus on after-treatment systems, primarily Diesel Oxidation Catalyst (DOC), NOx Absorber Catalyst and Diesel Particulate Filters. The exact configuration of components and the application of various sensors and support components vary among OEM’s. With this in mind it is always a good idea to acquire specific description, operation and testing data when attempting to repair any system.
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DIAGNOSING CATALYST EFFICIENCY CODES
In some of our previous Tech Bulletins we have written about all the factors that could contribute to a P0420 or P0430, Catalyst Efficiency code. In this months bulletin we would like to give you a concise, step-by-step guide to diagnosing these faults.
As with any code, the simple replacement of a component for the fault set tends to be a recipe for disaster. There is almost always some diagnosis that needs to be completed to determine the root cause of the failure. The “Catalyst Efficiency” code is a prime example of this. So let’s start at the beginning.
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DIESEL REGULATIONS: OPENING A WINDOW OF OPPORTUNITY
A new time is being ushered in for diesels. Somehow they have escaped much of the scrutiny experienced by their gasoline counter parts for years but all that is changing and changing fast. The Environmental Protection Agency’s clean Diesel regulations became effective in 2007 and are being phased in through this year and beyond. In this and future articles we will attempt to answer some basic questions as to how these regulations will affect the industry from the OEM and Aftermarket manufactures to the technician in the field.
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A LOOK TO THE FUTURE
Throughout 2009 our Tech Bulletins addressed many issues concerning the exhaust industry. It was a year of change. The California Air Resources Board announced sweeping changes to catalytic converter certification, application and installation protocols. Although all aftermarket manufactures were affected by these changes, Magnaflow especially felt the heat because our home is right in the middle of the action.
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ON BOARD DIAGNOSTICS PART II
As promised from last month, more on OBD...Data Stream, Freeze Frame and Monitors.
During this past year we have discussed many different topics. Misfire Diagnostics, Fuel Trim, and Converter Application to name a few. Through all of the articles the one common thread has been On-Board Diagnostics, commonly referred to as OBD.
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ON BOARD DIAGNOSTICS PART I
During this past year we have discussed many different topics. Misfire Diagnostics, Fuel Trim, and Converter Application to name a few. Through all of the articles the one common thread has been On-Board Diagnostics, commonly referred to as OBD.
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WHY CHOOSE A CONVERTER BY APPLICATION? PART II
Last month we talked about choosing a converter by application. The discussion centered on both the legislative and technical reasonsfor the industry to make the move from a “one size fits all” mentality to… let’s get the “CORRECT” converter on the vehicle.
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WHY CHOOSE A CONVERTER BY APPLICATION?
Let’s roll back the clock. It’s 1990 and you are a successful repair shop owner doing general repairs. As an independent, you have trained yourself and your staff to deal with many different repair issues.
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DIAGNOSING NOx FAILURES PART II
This month we continue to look at the causes of NOx failures. In our last Bulletin we discussed the EGR system, its design and how to determine if it is working properly. We also listed other causes of high NOx emissions and would like to address some of those in this issue.
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DIAGNOSING NOx FAILURES
One of the major environmental issues facing many areas of the Country today is Photochemical Smog, aka Ground Level Ozone. Smog is createdwhen NOx is combined with volatile organic compounds known as Hydrocarbons, (HC) and subjected to sunlight. This explains why some areas are impacted by this phenomena more than others (ie. Southern California).
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unlight = SMOG

MISFIRE DETECTION
One of the most important diagnostic changes to come out of On-Board Diagnostics Generation II (OBDII) is that of Misfire Detection. The Misfire Monitor is one of several tasks that the PCM conducts on a regular basis...
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INTERPRETING FUEL TRIM DATA
This month we take the discussion of Oxygen Sensors to yet another level. In recent discussions we talked about the role these sensors played in closed loop fuel control. What exactly does that mean, “Closed loop fuel control”, and what role does it play in maintaining a good workingconverter?
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OBDII CATALYST MONITORING
In the August 2008 “Tech Bulletin” we talked about Oxygen sensors. We discussed their design and function and gave examples of testing techniques to determine if they are functioning properly. We emphasized how critical these sensors were to the PCM’s (Powertrain Control Module) ability to control the air/fuel ratio in closed loop operation...
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WARNING LIGHTS.. NUISANCE OR NECESSITY?
Today’s vehicles offer an array of instrument cluster indicators that will challenge even the savviest of drivers. These range from check oil level warnings, ABS, tire pressure, and traction lights. The vehicle manufacturers have left no stone unturned in their quest to keep the consumer notified on the condition of their vehicles “State of Health”...Read More >>>

Extended Service Intervals Affects on Catalytic Converters
For some of us who have been around cars for almost a half a century, the thought of not changing your oil every 3000 miles is as foreign as today’s TV Reality shows. I know that I personally adhere to the 3K mile oil change and stand by it as the best way to avoid costly repairs...
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*TECH ANNOUNCEMENT* NEW TRAINING DIRECTOR THE BEST IS YET TO COME!
BIO: Gary Stamberger
Gary has been working in the Automotive Repair Industry for over 35 years. Starting at an entry level
he has gained experience in every aspect of the repair business...
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California’s New Aftermarket Catalytic Converters Regulations II
Why do the new California catalytic converters cost more?
• Effective January 1, 2009 the California Air Resources Board has mandated that ALL
catalytic converters sold or installed on a California Registered vehicle be a higher
emissions reduction unit and that the units are selected from an application specific
catalog. For complete application information go to www.car-sound.com....
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California’s New Aftermarket Catalytic Converters Regulations
Starting January 1, 2009, California’s aftermarket catalytic converter program takes on a new look. No longer will the conventional pre-OBD II parts be offered for sale and both CA OBD II as well as pre-OBD II parts will be quite different...
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OXYGEN SENSORS 101
Although often overlooked while diagnosing engine and emission issues, the oxygen sensor is one of the most critical sensors in the engine management system of today’s vehicles....
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EPA versus California Requirements & Compliance Procedures
Although there are no official “certification” procedures for California or the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), there is a process for each that any manufacturer has to go through to demonstrate compliance with the regulations...
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COMING 2009 - OBDII POLICY UPDATE
In 1986, the United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) adopted the enforcement policy governing the compliance demonstration as well as manufacture and sale of aftermarket catalytic converters...
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