' alt='BMW M3 GTS. Teaser.' title='BMW M3 GTS. Teaser.' /></a>
Detecting a Leak with the Aid of a Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner
The OBD2 system, especially when used in conjunction with a Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner can help detect initial faults which the human eye will not be capable seeing until the fault becomes more evident. This system is a very sophisticated and intelligent system which prevents most faults from building up unnoticed. A typical example of such is fault code P0456. This fault code when deciphered means Minor Leak detected in Evaporative Emissions System. A detailed explanation and how to decipher a fault code from a reader or scanner which only gives the code can be found on my other previous posts. This minor fault is not only very difficult to trace unless there are obvious signs like damp or wet parts, cracked pipes and loose pipe fittings, to name a few but it takes ages tracing the whole fuel system.
Conventional vehicles without any PCM (Powertrain Control Module) or as known by most Europeans ECU (Electronic - Engine Control Unit) which had everything mechanical and electrical, with no electronic circuits might have been simpler in their own form and were easier at times to work on, but such a fault would surely go unnoticed for ages before the smell of fuel vapor becomes too evident. Even then, if there is no visual indication there will be a long diagnosing mission to try and find where the vapors are escaping from. The method of a smoke machine or color dye is still used today as it was used then but as we can see we only need to check visually, then with a smoke machine around the EVAP system only, not the whole fuel system, starting from either end (fuel tank or carburetor) then moving forwards, till the culprit is found.
Trouble here is that the fault will display on the instrumentation panel on the dash as ‘Check Engine’ or ‘MIL’ (Malfunction Illumination Light). Unless you have access to at least a code reader or better still a diagnostic OBD2 scanner with CAN interface compliancy (for vehicles manufactured after end of 2007 in US – mandatory), then there is no way of telling what the fault is and how bad the situation is. It is always bad to assume that nothing major has occurred if the engine seems to run fine. It is also illegal to drive a vehicle with that warning light on in many parts of the world.
Conventional vehicles without any PCM (Powertrain Control Module) or as known by most Europeans ECU (Electronic - Engine Control Unit) which had everything mechanical and electrical, with no electronic circuits might have been simpler in their own form and were easier at times to work on, but such a fault would surely go unnoticed for ages before the smell of fuel vapor becomes too evident. Even then, if there is no visual indication there will be a long diagnosing mission to try and find where the vapors are escaping from. The method of a smoke machine or color dye is still used today as it was used then but as we can see we only need to check visually, then with a smoke machine around the EVAP system only, not the whole fuel system, starting from either end (fuel tank or carburetor) then moving forwards, till the culprit is found.
Trouble here is that the fault will display on the instrumentation panel on the dash as ‘Check Engine’ or ‘MIL’ (Malfunction Illumination Light). Unless you have access to at least a code reader or better still a diagnostic OBD2 scanner with CAN interface compliancy (for vehicles manufactured after end of 2007 in US – mandatory), then there is no way of telling what the fault is and how bad the situation is. It is always bad to assume that nothing major has occurred if the engine seems to run fine. It is also illegal to drive a vehicle with that warning light on in many parts of the world.
The Evaporative Emission System
The EVAP test is not a test that is constantly being tested like other constant tests. This test is only applied if certain criteria have to be met - otherwise this test will be kept on hold. The main criteria for the test of the EVAP to perform are that the fuel tank has to contain between ¼ - ¾% fuel, it hasn’t been used overnight and vehicle has to be driven for a certain distance. It might not run on certain extreme hot or cold environmental conditions too.
The main reason for the EVAP is to keep any fuel vapor from entering the atmosphere and re-circulates it back to the engine to be burnt off. These tests are conducted from the PCM, monitoring any fuel pressure drop in the system. The EVAP pressure is monitored from the PCM through the Fuel Tank Pressure sensor (FTP) and if there is a drop or difference in pressure it is recorded. Once the tolerance is exceeded it flags up a fault code on the PCM and the ‘MIL’ or ‘Check Engine’ Light is illuminated on the instrument panel. When the system is checked using a diagnostic OBD2 scanner the fault code P0456 emerges on the scanner’s display. With such a fault the engine should keep on running smoothly as engine is not becoming lean on fuel, the EVAP circuit is designed as a close circuit so it doesn’t have any effect on the rest of the program. Possible causes may be a faulty or badly engaged fuel cap, refueling with the engine on (unsafe practice and bad for fuel injection pump), a leaky or worn out hose, loose hose fixtures, miniature purge valve or vent valve leak or tiny leak on EVAP canister.
The best possible way to detect the fault is by breaking down the diagnosis into a small section. Using a diagnostic OBD2 scanner activate the vent solenoid, taking care to seal the rest of the system. Any pressure and any difference are monitored through the FTP and are recorded on the PCM, then entering the scanner. If the pressure reading remains the same, entering the OBD2 scanner screen as constant (same pressure reading) then that test has passed, meaning no leaks. If any pressure difference is recorded it is transferred onto the OBD2 scanner screen and you know there is a vapor or miniature leak somewhere across the EVAP system. If nothing can be seen visually, then the best option is to use a smoke detector. When smoke is seen the leak is uncovered. Never attempt to pressurize the EVAP system with compressed air. This can damage the delicate and accurate the valves in the system.
It is also a good idea after finding and replacing the faulty component to check all hose conditions. If they seem to have any hairline cracks or serious color discoloration, just change them with new ones, using the appropriate fuel hoses and the proper clamping hose devices. Re-check for any leaks with a smoke test. This way there is much less chances that the same code will appear again for a different part, which was overlooked the first time. If you are interested in OBD diagnostic techniques and would like to acquire more tips and information visit Automotive Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner.
Friday, December 18, 2009
Teaser: BMW M3 GTS
<a href='http://www.bmw.tv/com/article/BMW+M3+GTS.+Teaser./New/video.do?articleID=5092&spaceID=2&channelID=2'><img src=' ' alt='BMW M3 GTS. Teaser.' title='BMW M3 GTS. Teaser.' /></a>
' alt='BMW M3 GTS. Teaser.' title='BMW M3 GTS. Teaser.' /></a>
Wednesday, September 30, 2009
BMW's Contribution to a Cleaner World
BMW is committed to give customers more environmentally friendly automobiles with a twist "Cleaner Yet More Powerful" even on their most exquisite, luxurious model - the 7-series. The best part is that their advanced engineering, technological development or R&D keeps on increasing the bhp figures, even on these hybrid models. Have a look at this Short Video - BMW Active Hybrid 7 to see what I mean.
Thursday, September 24, 2009
Hybrid Conversions – Supplementary Fuel
Join the new revolution without buying a new hybrid vehicle....
"How?"
Convert your existing vehicle to work with Water! Not kidding.
Basics – How It Works:
Water is used, as already stated, but is never mixed up with fuel in its own form. The chemistry of normal water is made up of 2 atoms of hydrogen and 1 atom of oxygen. The two hydrogen atoms are linked by a single chemical bond to one oxygen atom. Its chemical formula in scientific terms is H2O. What we need from water is to extract the entrapped hydrogen – this is our secondary fuel. A quick note on hydrogen is that it is actually more powerful than our own normal fuel medium, being gas or diesel. This is used as a supplementary fuel in addition to our normal fuel in the engine’s combustion cycle, meaning that we are now using less of the engine’s original required fuel (gas or diesel).
Read full article on supplied link--> http://www.diagnosticobd2scanner.com/hybrid-technology/hybrid-conversions-water-for-gas
"How?"
Convert your existing vehicle to work with Water! Not kidding.
Basics – How It Works:
Water is used, as already stated, but is never mixed up with fuel in its own form. The chemistry of normal water is made up of 2 atoms of hydrogen and 1 atom of oxygen. The two hydrogen atoms are linked by a single chemical bond to one oxygen atom. Its chemical formula in scientific terms is H2O. What we need from water is to extract the entrapped hydrogen – this is our secondary fuel. A quick note on hydrogen is that it is actually more powerful than our own normal fuel medium, being gas or diesel. This is used as a supplementary fuel in addition to our normal fuel in the engine’s combustion cycle, meaning that we are now using less of the engine’s original required fuel (gas or diesel).
Read full article on supplied link--> http://www.diagnosticobd2scanner.com/hybrid-technology/hybrid-conversions-water-for-gas
Please share your constructive comments with us. We would like to hear your opinion.
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Why should a Hybrid Engine Conversion be considered?
Engine Hybrid Conversion - Guaranteed Results!
This is simply the way to go unless you already own or are in the process of buying an environmentally friendly hybrid vehicle. All engine types can work and benefit tremendously from this system. It is a win-win situation as it saves you big money from fuel expenses while also polluting virtually much less poisonous emissions than before the system was installed. It also reduces and eventually cleans up the carbon build-up in the engine.Another great thing is engine wear is less as it decreases the normal engine operating temperature.
Engine runs smoother and also gains extra power. This is easily understandable when one considers the fact that hydrogen fuel creates a bigger explosion, which is needed for the engine rotational cycle. This surely will be more effective than traditional fuel. This much stronger power is the key to less fuel and obviously less harmful emissions, commonly found in traditional fuels. Hydrogen emissions are no more than water vapor, so it does not harm the environment in any way - the contrary as a matter of fact!
Tips:
- Try installing one now and I guarantee that you'll never look back as the saving alone are enormous. It can be done by a competent D.I.Y.-er or a good qualified mechanic or vehicle technician.
- Do not be put off by the many myths about this system from negative people surrounding you. NASA had done some testing more than 20 years ago on a diesel engine and their results were outstanding.
- BMW is launching the New 7-series automobile with this kind of system. Surely they are leading by example here and I can assure you they will not launch their best (top) flagship luxury automobile worth thousand s of Dollars if they are not sure the system works fine.
- Another global political secret: All countries depend on fuel and they Fully Support (hiddenly) the petroleum industry. They might look environmentally friendly politicians with an ever-green agenda BUT they depend so much on these mega companies that they do not support this system. Australia is currently one of them - there are many more, rest assured!
- Your saving on fuel expenses will be massive per year if you use you vehicle very often. That alone and with the current sky-rocketing fuel prices should get you moving in the right direction.
- Environmentally friendly and safer than pure hydrogen vehicles as the hydrogen is produced from water on demand only when the engine is running - dangerous storage is eliminated, which is the hazardous problem associated with hydrogen storage in any form. Hydrogen emissions are 100% clean as they are water vapor from vehicle's tailpipe. The only poisonous emissions are the ones from the fuel and these are reduced drastically as fuel consumption is much less.
- Do it for the sake of future generations who are not guilty for all our bad deeds to the environment. Remember about the future of your grand children and their futures.
- You will not be playing the game of feeding the big boy's mouths - petroleum industry and global politics.
- The saying goes "You are what you eat" - you aren't a healthy person if you are driving a toxic vehicle!
If you think that you should make the final decision for reducing the ozone problem, and most importantly you decide that you should drastically slash your annual fuel expenses (they add up horrendously if you keep all receipts for a year) there are two options available:
- 1. Replace your vehicle with a new hybrid or even electric car
OR
- 2. Convert your own vehicle to a hybrid one
Tip: The conversion is not complicated at all and can be done by competent D.I.Y.-ers if they are inclined enough to read the instructions thoroughly. Any competent mechanic willing to do such an installation, and doesn't consider this a waste of their profitable time can complete the task successfully. You might even convince them that there is a possible market for such a system after all, and they might try and promote it themselves for installation, as they should find it better than major repairs (less time and no oily fingers) adding to their own profits. So there are no excuses whatever - you can have it installed on your vehicle one way or another. The last decision is yours!
If this simple system seems for you Go and Check It Out Here: --->> http://www.DiagnosticOBD2Scanner.com
Monday, September 14, 2009
Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner adds a new Shopping Mall
We at Automotive Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner have launched a New, exciting Online Shopping Mall with the best products available from our store. Only quality products are being offered online and some with as much as 50% or more clearance discount. So be sure to check us often!
You are welcome to visit our new Online Shopping Mall at: --->> http://www.diagnosticobd2scanner.com/online-shopping
Thursday, September 10, 2009
FAQ on the OBD Diagnostic System and Why a Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner is Needed
Check out my latest article on the Diafgnostic OBD2 System at: http://EzineArticles.com/?id=2814412
You are welcome to forward it to anyone you know who is interested on this subject.
Tips on Slashing Your Fuel Prices! Guaranteed
There is something very impressive….. which has been known for some time, well - more than 30 years and no major manufacturer has tapped onto this system. Unbelievable!
Everyone is shouting Loud and Clear to take serious action in protecting the ozone, while blaming high pollutants like factories, vehicles of all sorts, starting from the biggest (commercial) to the smallest, amongst other variations one can come up with. After all we are now paying our own mistakes by neglecting the ozone. Fuel prices are on the record over-run, and all manufacturers are coming up with is either a hybrid engine or electric motors.
The good news is that we do not need to spend thousands on a new hybrid vehicle if we want to help improve both the global problem and try and balance our own fuel costs. Actually this can be translated into plain English “Slash My Fuel Costs”. The solution is right at our finger-tips. We can convert our existing engines to be a hybrid vehicle, no matter what the engine is; diesel or gasoline from the smallest passenger vehicle to the biggest industrial machines. Everyone who is not currently running a hybrid engine should consider this option – even NASA tests had provided positive results.
Now the better part is still coming. Guess what… The fuel additive is WATER! You can find out more about this impressive system here.
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Rotary Engines | How They Work
via youfixcars.com
These engines have been around since 1957. Mazda, the pioneers in rotary engines are still using them on the latest model RX8 cars.
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Increased Roles of the Diagnostic OBD2 Scanner
Using the diagnostic OBD2 scanner as a tool for repairs
Modern engines have become so complex electronically that it is sometimes quite a challenging task knowing where to begin when a fault indicator lamp on the instrumentation panel goes on. This is even made worse on an OBD II engine when somebody tries to tackle these faults without using a compatible diagnostic OBD2 scanner. This really...... >[read more]Using the diagnosticOBD2 scanner for emissions testing
Emission test centers are now using the second generation OBD diagnostic software where applicable for the vehicle's emissions test. This is not only faster, it is more accurate as there is a much less margin for error, unlike the tailpipe tests. Old traditional tailpipe testing is......>[read more]Any vehicles being emission tested must have these two points below functional and untempered so the test can continue:
- Functional ‘Check Engine’ Illumination which goes on when every time vehicle is started and goes out after a few seconds - Any blown out illumination bulbs for the Malfunction Illumination Light 'MIL' or ‘Check Engine’ is an instant failure. No electronic tampering devices are allowed on this circuit.
- Diagnostic Connector present and attached to the factory allocated position - The OBD II connector must be present and ready to accept the scantest. The vehicle must pass the OBD II parameters’ scantest.
Previously in OBD I each manufacturer set up their own specialized, but not standardized hardware and software programing. This created confusion for the main dealers and specialized mechanics, as manufacturers.....>[read more]
Difference between OBD I and OBD II
The most important changes in the OBD II system were introducing common platform characteristics which were the same in all vehicles, regardless of make and model. A common standardized 16 pin plug was introduced and the generic codes became the same in all software systems. This move was essential so that more qualified mechanics, including the main dealers could use the same diagnostic OBD2 scanner for all OBD II compliant systems. This not only reduced the amount of dedicated factory scanners, thus reducing equipment costs, but.....>[read more]Poll Question: (Must visit hub page to vote)
Drive your gasoline or diesel vehicle with a supplementary additive - hydrogen!
Did you know that hydrogen made out of natural water can be used as an additive to your fuel?
- No - I have never heard of it before.
- Yes - I have heard of it somewhere or I have witnessed it in someone's vehicle.
- I can't remember from where I became aware and thought it was just a dream in these difficult financial situations.
Posted via email from DiagnosticOBD2Scanner's posterous
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Fault Code Scanner C1000 - BMW Instructions
Important manual guide for BMW owners using the Scanner C1000. Comes with BMW instructions..... Download the PDF File
Thursday, August 20, 2009
Monthly Maintenance Habit
Get this monthly habit of preventive maintenance on your vehicle and save costly repair bills. View Ezine Article and - DO NOT Forget - to implement it on your vehicle.
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