News from AESwave.com
Automotive Electronics Services, Inc.
2004 Aug

Feeling left out?
MODIS, SOLUS, MODIS, SOLUS

Snap-on's favorite tools are now the MODIS and the SOLUS.  But do not forget about the Vantage PGM.  It's a good tool for anyone in a hurry (and it's not that heavy).

If you need to purchase a Vantage or an update for the Vantage contact your local dealer.
Everything else to help you take full advantage of your Vantage is available from AES:

  amp probes • screen-capture software • clips • longer leads • AC ripple • shielded leads 
 

The Vantage is a power graphing meter (PGM).  
Click here to read about the similarities and difference among DMM, GMM, and PGM. 

Fuel Cap Adapters
Keeping up to date with EVAP

If you are part of the California Smog Program you may received a BAR BLAST within the last two weeks that provided an updated list of fuel cap adapters.

This is a list of the current adapters, eight in all, with the following designations:
• Red with a 1/2" hole or the letter "L" on the inside of the cup
• Gray cam on type
• Yellow
• Black with or without dimple inside. With dimple has Honda fix.
• Green 
• Orange with the letter "G" on the inside of the cup
• Blue with the letter "A" on the inside of the cup
• Brown with the letter "F" on the inside of the cup

Controller Area Networks
CAN Diagnostics - Are you ready?

 In a survey conducted by PWR Training, CAN diagnostics is one of the hottest topics for technicians.

 What is CAN?

 The basic description Controller Area Network reveals only part of the picture. In simple terms, CAN is a network of controllers connected through a pair of wires, sharing information to reduce redundant wiring and components. Although many believe this is a new concept, this technology has been used for many years. My first exposure to this technology was learning about the Chrysler CCD system in the late 1980’s. What is different today? The primary differences are advancements in software, processor speeds, communication technologies, standardization, etc.

 In 1996, OBD II was officially implemented to help with standardization of diagnostic platforms. The J1962 OBD II connector was mandated and several scan tool communication protocols were approved: PWM, ISO, VPW, etc. The ultimate goal was to eventually implement one single scan tool protocol. California Air Resources Board (CARB) is requiring all vehicle manufacturers to fully implement the single scan tool protocol by 2008 in all makes and models. This single protocol is referred to as CAN.

 Is CAN really a single protocol? The answer is no, CAN is really not a single protocol. CAN is available in many forms; CAN, CAN B (slow speed), CAN C (medium to high speed), CAN D, etc. The single protocol selected by CARB for OBD II generic communication is CAN C. The specifications for CAN C are defined and standardized by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE). The SAE HS3000 manual (OBD II design manual) specifies that CAN C can communicate at various speeds. The two common communications speeds are 250k and 500k, so what was to be a single scan tool protocol, really is not.

 Now vehicle manufacturers have options ranging from 250k to 500k and all points in between. What does this mean to technicians?  The scan tool you choose will need to accommodate these variations. The hope is that most vehicle manufacturers will implement the OBD II Generic CAN specification correctly.

 What does CAN really mean to technicians? You need to be aware that CAN is already on vehicles today.

 Are you prepared to diagnose one of these systems? Below are suggestions on how to prepare for CAN diagnostics:

1. CAN Vehicle Release Dates: The mandate is for all vehicle manufacturers to implement CAN by 2008, but many manufacturers have begun the process already. In 2003, Ford, Mazda, SAAB and General Motors introduced nine models equipped with CAN. In 2004, Chrysler, Toyota and Volvo added vehicles. In 2005, the total CAN equipped vehicles will have reached approx. 180 models. For a complete list of vehicles you can visit the Equipment Tool Institute (ETI).  The site also includes a scorecard on how manufacturers plan to implement CAN.
2. Scan Tools: How do you choose the correct scan tool? The answer is not very simple. If you are going to focus your attention on specific makes and models, the best choice is always the factory scan tool. If you are going to work on many makes and models, factory scan tools are still the best choice, but this may not be affordable. In this case, you should purchase an aftermarket tool (Snap-on, OTC, Vetronix, etc.) that best fits your coverage needs and also select a low cost OBD II generic tool. The low cost OBD II generic tool will help you with comparison issues and potential communications conflicts.
3. System Knowledge and Information: There is no substitute for system knowledge and information. Understanding how CAN has been implemented on the vehicle you are diagnosing is invaluable. You are not going to be able to guess on these systems. The best source for system description and diagnostic information will likely be the vehicle manufacturer websites. Aftermarket information resources (Alldata, Mitchell, etc.) are good, but in some cases may not provide all the system details or diagnostic tests. Also, look for training classes related to powertrain diagnostics and CAN systems.
4. Diagnostic Tools: In reviewing diagnostic tests for CAN systems, most vehicle manufacturers are recommending basic diagnostic tools for their technicians. The primary tools are DVOM and factory scan tool. In addition to the DVOM and factory/aftermarket scan tool, aftermarket technicians will likely be using lab scopes. The important issue here, if you are not comfortable using your diagnostic tools, your ability to diagnose CAN systems will be limited. Invest some time now to fully understand your current tools and begin researching what tool you need to purchase next.  Formal training and self-study courses on the use of DVOMs, labscopes, current probes, etc are available from AES, PWR Training, equipment manufacturers, vehicle manufacturers, etc.
5. Diagnostic Approach: How you approach diagnosing a CAN system will determine success and failure. Most of us can diagnose just about anything, given enough time and money, but time and money are in short supply these days. Here is a simplified diagnostic approach: The first step is gaining knowledge and understanding for this specific vehicle system. Also, do you have adequate information to completely diagnose the system? Second, do you have the appropriate tools to perform the required tests. Third, do you feel confident using the required tools and performing the recommended tests. If you answer no to any of the questions, the best choice is to be pass on this job. If you answer yes to all of the questions, you are well on your way to completing this diagnosis. 

 Are you ready for CAN? If you are planning ahead, you will be, but if you wait until these vehicles reach the shop, it may be too late.

 Copyright Bob Pattengale

A seminar by  Jorge Menchu

Success in the complex and ever-changing automotive repair industry gets harder every day. But success is still possible for those who are motivated and choose to focus their energy and intelligence.

This seminar will help you achieve new levels of success. This will be accomplished by providing you with the knowledge and tools to unlock your self-learning and analytical skills. We will analyze highly technical vehicle system information, by performing mental exercises based on electronics, waveform, and wiring diagram analysis. Each exercise will increase in complexity and will build on the previous exercise, culminating in a complete analytical/diagnostic strategy.

Should you attend?
• Beginners who want a foundation and direction that will save time and provide a great and immediate jump in his current skills.
• Intermediates who want to be an expert.
• Experts who want to push the envelope of expertise that everyone aspires to achieve.

Attend this seminar if you want to be the best you can be. To improve your ability to think, learn and solve problems.

Enjoy your Labor Day Holiday!

Contact AES
Automotive Electronics Services, Inc.
3849 N Fine Ave #102
Fresno CA 93727
559-292-7851
carlos@aeswave.com

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New Product AutoEnginuity Scan Tool
	Generic OBD-II scan tool with CAN compatibility. One tool in 3 formats, choose that one that's best for you:   PC-Based   Palm PDA   Pocket PDA

Used Equipment • Interro PDA • OTC Perception • OTC Accuracy  Click here for details
Special AES Wave! Information Management System
	Save screens from various lab scopes onto your PC. Regular: $229.00 Your Price: $160.30

Training Update for: 

PWR Training
Mark, John and Bob are on summer vacation developing their Fall schedule for the following seminars:

Top 10 OBD-II Codes
• Sept 27th 28th Fresno CA
• Sept 29th 30th Concord CA
• Oct 4th 5th Mountain View CA
• Oct 11th 12th Portland OR
• Oct 16th Bellingham WA

OBDII Mastering The Beast:
• Oct 6th 7th Sacramento CA

If you would like to sponsor a PWR seminar please contact Bob Pattengale at bob@pwrtraining.com or call: 520-240-6292.

Training Update for: 

Tom Roberts
Tom has teamed up with NATA to present 4 lab scope seminars in Portland, Oregon

Nerd I on September 13th and 14th
Nerd II on October 11th and 12th
Nerd III on November 8th and 9th
Nerd IV on December 6th and 7th

To sign up, please contact:
Northwest Automotive Trades Association (NATA)
V:503-253-9898 
E: info@aboutnata.org
S: http://aboutnata.org/

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