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Years ago, I wrote about a customer who only wanted the tap from a TIME-SERT 2200 kit. More recently, another customer asked, “Can I buy just the thread tap from the TIME-SERT 3700 kit?” These types of inquiries are common. The TIME-SERT 3700 kit, an M11x2.0 Universal Head Bolt Thread Kit, is popular for many LS engines. When I asked if the customer had the full kit, he assured me he did, but his answers suggested otherwise. He claimed the kit was old and the numbers on the tap were worn off. Th …

This article is also available in video format at the bottom of the page.Car manufacturers started using R134A refrigerant in 1995. Vehicles manufactured before this year typically used R12 refrigerant. However, many of these older systems were converted to R134A because R12 production was halted. R12 systems have threaded service ports. R134A systems can be identified by their quick-connect service port connectors, which differ in size for the low and high sides to prevent incorrect connections …

Modern car engines are made with a combination of materials, including aluminum and plastic, for various reasons, primarily related to performance, efficiency, and weight reduction. Here are some of the key reasons for using these materials: Aluminum: Lightweight: Aluminum is much lighter than iron, which was commonly used in older engines, although there are some cast iron blocks around still. One example being some Chevy LS engines. Lighter engines improve fuel efficiency and reduce the over …

Wise Auto Tools: I worked many years as a Master Auto Technician. I bought Snap On Tools, Matco, Mac and Cornwell tools but I have to say Craftsman was my main choice for everyday affordable ratchets, wrenches and sockets. There were a few applications that I used a more expensive name brand. For instance I didn't like the Craftsman line wrenches because they tended to spread and round brake line fittings. I absolutely loved my Snap On line wrenches because they never rounded the fittings. Many …