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“Hemi Tick” is a term that strikes fear into the hearts of many Dodge, Ram, and Jeep owners. However, while it can indicate an expensive problem, not every tick is a death sentence for your engine. The Hemi platform is legendary for its power, and some would say equally as famous for developing this distinct rhythmic tap. This sound often stems from one of two very different problems: a simple broken exhaust manifold bolt – or – a catastrophic roller lifter failure. It’s easy to confuse a broken exhaust manifold bolt (a relatively cheap fix) with a lifter eating a camshaft, which…
If you own a Ford F-150 or Expedition equipped with the 3.5L EcoBoost engine, you may have experienced a jarring, metallic rattling sound immediately after turning the key on a cold morning. This sound, which usually lasts for only a few seconds before disappearing, is not only annoying – it’s a warning sign of a significant mechanical failure. Understanding The Root Cause Of Ford Cold Start Rattle The notorious cold start rattle is primarily attributed to the variable cam timing (VCT) phasers. In the Gen 1 and Gen 2 3.5L EcoBoost engines, these components adjust camshaft timing to optimize performance and fuel efficiency.…
The Chevrolet small block is arguably the most produced engine in automotive history. For decades, the venerable 350 reigned supreme. However, as times changed, the need for better emissions, performance, and durability grew. While the 350 evolved continuously from its debut in 1967 until its phase-out in 2003, the arrival of the LS engine family in 1997 changed the game forever. The LS engine was a ‘clean-sheet’ design, so this GM engine started from scratch. The Bridge To The LS: 1980s – 1996 Before the LS arrived, the classic small block Chevy 350 underwent massive changes. As we explained in our Chevy 350…
If you own a modern GM truck or SUV, you may have experienced an unsettling vibration at highway speeds, often described as driving over rumble strips. Sometimes referred to as the Chevy Shake, this issue is frequently caused by issues in your 8L90 automatic transmission. This issue has plagued thousands of drivers, and understanding the cause is the first step toward a smooth ride. The Chevy Shake is a symptom of internal transmission fatigue that requires a precision engineered fix. Understanding The Shudder The 8L90 transmission shudder is typically caused by the torque converter clutch (TCC). Over time, moisture buildup in the fluid…
If you’ve spent five minutes in a garage, you’ve heard of the Small Block Chevy 350. Since its debut in 1967, it has arguably become the most-produced engine on the planet. Whether it’s powering a vintage Corvette, a rugged Silverado, or a custom hot rod, the 350 is the bread and butter of the American automotive scene. However, a common mistake is assuming that every 350 is the same. We hear it all the time: “Just send me any old 350!” But from a remanufacturing standpoint, there are key differences you need to know before you start your swap. Read…
may seem like the most convenient option when it’s time for replacement, but is it the best? The reality is that factory transmissions are often built with cost-saving compromises, and many weren’t originally engineered to handle the stress of modern use, such as towing, racing, or heavy loads. This is where a remanufactured upgraded transmission from Powertrain Products can make all the difference. Stock vs Upgraded Transmission: What’s the Real Difference? “Is it worth upgrading your transmission?” Stock (OEM) transmissions are made to meet minimum performance standards under ideal conditions. But most drivers don’t operate in “ideal.” Whether you tow,…
Taking care of your vehicle’s transmission can help you avoid costly repairs by maximizing its lifespan. Below is a practical transmission care guide with tips on how to make your transmission last longer. Top Tips To Extend Transmission Life We’ll start with 10 tips that can help to extend the life of your transmission, then we’ll answer your frequently asked transmission questions. 1. Check Transmission Fluid Regularly One of the simplest transmission maintenance tips is to keep an eye on your transmission fluid. This fluid can break down for various reasons – from rough driving to extreme environments. Best to…
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