Why It’s Important to Use the Right Tools for a Specific Job
A successful repair demands more than just knowledge of the procedure. Access to the proper tools is critical. More and more, manufacturers are developing parts that require application specific tools for removal or replacement. Parts are designed for ease of assembly or to maximize fuel economy through reduced weight, where serviceability is often an afterthought.
Investing in the Right Tools
A key factor differentiating leading repair shops is a willingness to invest in the correct tools and equipment to accomplish a certain repair. For example, we were recently tasked with testing a set of Cummins ISL common rail injectors. In order to successfully test these injectors, a special adaptor block had to be purchased, at a substantially higher cost than the revenue earned from testing one set of injectors.
In spite of this difference in cost versus revenue, we still consider this to be a net gain, as our shop is now better equipped than ever before. Continually investing in new tools and technologies is one of many ways in which we strive to remain at the forefront of our industry.
While the above example is specific to the fuel injection repair industry, the following example applies to general repair shops and backyard mechanics alike.
Using the Right Tools
Pictured in our technician’s gloved hand is the electrical connector for a Siemens G2.8 injector. These injectors are found in the Ford 6.0 and 4.5 litre Powerstroke engines, as well as Navistar VT365, VT275 and Maxxforce 5. For the sake of comparison, a new connector is shown as well. These electrical connectors fit through machined holes in the engine rocker arm carriers. In this instance the connector was damaged during removal, most likely due to the use of a hammer.
The proper procedure for removing one of these connectors is to disengage the locking tabs on the outside of the connector, using an Injector Connector Removal Tool. This tool fits around the outside of the connector, gently forcing the locking tabs inward allowing the connector to be pushed through the rocker carrier. We happen to carry the Alliant Power AP0017 G2.8 Injector Connector Removal Tool, which is specifically designed for this purpose.
While the damage to the connector in this example might not look like a big deal, our technician had to spend some time with a file to clean up the rough edge, before the injector could be plugged into our HI2000 hydraulic injector test bench. It is also worth noting that there is an O-ring around the outside of the connector, to seal against the rocker carrier. If the connector should become cracked, engine oil can leak out into the engine valley, meaning more frequent oil top offs, an increased risk of environmental contamination, or even creating a fire hazard if the oil should drip down beneath the intake manifold and accumulate near the EGR cooler.
Whether you’re a home mechanic, or a full-service repair facility, the right tool is critical to achieving an effective repair that will last the life of the vehicle. Drop by Island Diesel, and see our selection of diesel-specific specialty tools. With our expertise you can be confident that the repair you’ve performed on your or your customer’s vehicle will be done right the first time, avoiding costly downtime and embarrassing comebacks.
