Case Study: Problematic VW Caddy

This month we have a problematic VW Caddy Case Study, from our very own Steve Smith.

When it comes to diagnosis, perseverance is key and never has this been more relevant than in the following case study..if at first you don't succeed...you know the rest.

This case study follows post- purchase rectification of a 2007 VW Caddy 1.9 TDI (Engine code BLS). The Caddy was purchased at auction during the summer with the knowledge that the vehicle was not running at its best, but was "running"!

How this differs from a normal case study is that we do not have a customer complaint. In this case we are assisting with a local rectification project, when the owner called upon us as the going got tough. The initial symptoms surrounded engine vibrations, engine noise, lack of power and poor starting. To cut a very long story short the following items were replaced by the owner, curing the performance and balance issues, but leaving the starting issues:

Now had this been a customer's vehicle, can you imagine the cost and explanation to go with each repair above? Knowing the history of the vehicle it proved too much of a temptation to not get involved and apply the PicoScope.

• Turbocharger
• Dual Mass Flywheel and Clutch
• Glow Plugs
• Timing belt
• EGR "blank off"
• Fuel filter
• Coolant Temperature sensor
• Priming Fuel pump
• Tandem pump
• Injector harness
• Starter motor and an engine harness repair

You can continue reading the Problematic VW Caddy Case Study online...

PicoScope Automotive 4225 and 4425: Recap

In September of 2014 we launched the next generation of Automotive PicoScopes with a host of exciting features. The new scopes are available as 2-channel 4225 and 4-channel 4425 models, and are supported by a complete range of kits to allow a workshop to earn money from their PicoScope right out of the box.
The displayed input voltage range of the previous 4000 series scopes was 100 V, this has now been increased to 200 V with the new PicoScope 4225 and 4425, so removing the need for attenuation when measuring devices such as injectors etc.

November's Waveform library competition result

Our Waveform Library feature in PicoScope 6 Automotive is growing at a superb rate, with over 1050 waveforms now available.

To access the Waveform Library you must have an automotive scope connected and have a valid user name and password for the Pico Automotive forum.

Waveform Library Competition: November's Results

All the waveforms uploaded to the database between 1st November and 30th November were automatically entered into a draw for 10 chances to win a voucher worth GBP100 / USD165 / EUR121. This voucher can only be used when ordering direct from Pico Technology, and there is no cash alternative.

One of the most useful types of waveform is CAM vs CRANK. Due to this we stated 5 of the 10 vouchers will be awarded to people who have uploaded this type of waveform. The following waveforms were chosen at random. Each name listed below will receive a PM on the automotive forum, with details on how to claim your voucher.

Online training material

We have a new section on our website for online training material. This is a library of articles and videos that will help you to use your PicoScope to reveal information from your chosen vehicle in ways you perhaps may not have considered. This library will continue to grow overtime, so well worth that browser bookmark save.

Currently we have our three Scope School articles (recently featured in PMM magazine), ScannerDanner PicoScope videos, and our introductory guide available.

Upcoming events and exhibitions

Branchenforum, Dortmund Autologic GmbH, an automotive distributor for Pico Technology is attending and will showcase many of our automotive products. Why not pay them a visit if you are attending the show? To sign-up please visit the misteratz website. Branchenforum, Dortmund 18th - 19th January 2015
Autozum, Salzburg Once every two years the AutoZum presents a unique range of products from automobile parts, workshop, garage and fuel station facilities, car washing technology, to accessories and tuning goods; and provides perfect conditions for setting up business deals, cultivating contacts and networking. For over 40 years this show has served markets far beyond the borders of Austria. Autologic GmbH, an automotive distributor for Pico Technology is attending the show to showcase many of our automotive products. Why not pay them a visit if you are attending the show? Autozum, Salzburg 21st - 24th January 2015 Am Messezentrum 6, Postfach 285 A-5021 Salzburg
Automotive Training Expo The 2015 Automotive Training Expo will have some of the best trainers from the industry lined up! Get the latest training, browse Exhibits ranging from all aspects of the industry, benefit from great networking opportunities and more. Get inspired, get motivated and get informed! This is your chance to experience top industry-leading trainers speak. Great topics that are not only relevant to our industry and today's economy, but inspirational too. So don't miss out and "Mark Your Calendars" March 20-22,2015. Autonerdz will be representing Pico Technology at The West Coast's Largest Automotive Training Expo, why not stop by and see them at booth #51 Automotive Training Expo 20-22nd March 2015 Doubletree Seattle Airport Hotel 18740 International Boulevard Seattle, WA 98188 USA