re: Ask a mechanic a question

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I don't think you understand my point. A diagnostic scanner is one of many expensive tools a mechanic needs to do his job. You don't see charges for use of any of the other tools that save a mechanic time. Like I said, there's no charge for use of the lift. No charge for use of the air compressor. For consistency sake, it doesn't make sense to charge a customer for one thing and not others.

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I understand what you're say, and when I was a tech we rarely ever charged for just pulling codes.

However, scan tools are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to actual diagnostics. They provide a good starting point. For instance, I had a mid size GM SUV come in that was throwing cam sensor codes. No big deal and a cheap fix for the customer, I thought. I replaced the sensor, cleared the code, and took it for a test drive. The code came back almost immediately. Maybe a faulty sensor(happens far too often than it should). I ordered another one and the same thing happened. So, now I hit up some GM message boards and found that a lot of other people had the same issue. The engine uses variable valve timing(VVT) for controlling the timing of the valve train. This engine also has over head cams. So, the cams and valve train work together to achieve the VVT function. The VVT System is controlled hydraulically by the engine's oil. The cam sensor was reading that the cam was out of phase with the ECM specs at that(or any in this case) engine speed. So, I went and checked the oil and sure enough it was 1/2 quart low, and looked terrible. I changed the oil, cleared the code, and went on a test drive. Everything was perfect. I put the original cam sensor back in and and had the same outcome. So, you're not just paying for the scan tool. You're paying for everything else that comes with it. In my customer's case, he basically paid $150 for an oil change. Maybe 45 minutes of actual work.

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I have a slow leak (5psi/wk) in one of my tires. Three different shops have found no issues, yet it persists. Why?

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Have you tried spraying soapy water on tire to see where leak is?

Might be a valve stem or valve stem core. Dont forget to spray that as well.

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What would the correct ignition timing be on a 1955 Bel Air Chevrolet, with a 327 cubic-inch engine and a four-barrel carburetor?

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I wouldnt have a clue, but my cousins girlfriend (soon to be fiance') probably knows. Ill ask her to log on and give you an answer.

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Have you tried spraying soapy water on tire to see where leak is?

Might be a valve stem or valve stem core. Dont forget to spray that as well.

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The shops all said they sprayed and didn't find anything. I'll take a look at the valve stems.

Carson, I would look into the driveshaft and it's components first from what you describe .

Yeah man, flat spots on tires from sitting too long. Also need to make sure slack in the gearbox is minimal.

What's it like being the only profession that makes lawyers seem ethical by comparison?

100,000 tops