I was a mechanic, I’m now 80, so that’s over. This video reminds me of the backbreaking drudgery involved with major engine work. This was before computers ran everything. The diagnosis was much easier, the systems were simple, basic. I could do a complete valve job on a1955 ford V-8, including grinding the valves and seats (I had a valve grinding machine on the end of my bench). Time for this project = 4 hours. Complete brake system overhaul including new shoes, brake drum machining, honing the wheel cylinders and bleeding the brake fluid= 4 hours. I worked alone and I had a NAPA parts store one block away. Simpler times, simpler systems. No waiting for parts to be shipped and I made a living. This was in Los Angles where I was raised.
I can literally feel your frustration and pain with this one Wes. Sometimes you're the top dog, sometimes you're the fire hydrant. The nightmare is over and tomorrow's a new day though!
Videos like these are what deter me from ever doing mechanic work for money. lol.. I don't mind working on stuff to help my friends; but every time I've tried to take money for a job, something ends up burning me that I didn't anticipate; and it's always a struggle to try to get the customer to pay that extra cost without a fight.. Otherwise you eat the cost and lose all your profit, or waste all your time. smh.. It gives me nightmares and keeps me up at night.... What a bummer-- I know your struggle on this one and it's painful to watch.
DIFFICULT...what a hard engine to work on. Here I was thinking, OK just a hydraulic lifter . Easy enough just pull the intake and replace... Then you start pulling all the left side valve gear , then the head and all injection bs! I WAS LIKE WT actual F! Then to have all those (non replaceable non gettable gm guff) I'm like Hollycow! And then the tightening sequence is like your working on the space shuttle! Then the finicky injection bs ... what a turd design. You have the stress of trying to explain all this to the client and not lose money on it. You did well not to give up.
I TRIED BUT WES WIFE IS A DEMOCRAT TEACHER .... I LIKE WES BUT I CAN NOT STAND HIS WIFE BECAUSE SHE IS A CRT TEACHER .....LOOK IT UP FOR URSELF ... NOT TRYING TO BRING POLITICS INTO THIS BUT AFTER 5 + YEARS OF DEMOCRATS ...... A DEMOCRAT IS A DEMOCRAT AT TGE END OF THE DAY ......DEMOCRATS ARE EVIL BY NATURE ..
Well, it has taken most of a decade, but GM has finally succeeded in removing all of the joy of working on one of their engines to accomplish anything more complicated than an oil change... And yes, that sucks... You Sir, have my utmost respect for the work you do...
@@sunbeam8866 I lost my desire to own a GM in 1977, when I took the head off of my 71 Vega. Even a 16 yr old knew an aluminum piston runing in an aluminum bore was asking for trouble quickly.
@@ronjenkins6674 Yeah. The Vega was the poster-child for everything wrong with GM. And, apparently not willing to learn from GM's mistake, about 20 years ago, BMW had similar problems with some of their 'sleeveless' aluminum engines!
Your correct. Im 2 months owning my 2017 silverado 1500 4x4 with only 30,000 miles. Got from a local reputable dealership. I checked and checked and looked and is in awesome shape. Now it needs a torque convertor and afm issues making more and more ticking and front diff bearings at cv shaft mating area. So glad to be with this super reliable chevy after my pacifica engine imploded with the newest issue #7 valve failure then cam and cylinder and more. I miss any of my 70s and 80s cars. Why oh why did i ever sell em and go modern each decade. Now almost 50 im working toward going back to older cars and just rebuild to like new
In July of 2000, I packed up my tools and took my four ASE master certs off the wall and went home. I was fed up. I never looked back, either. Kudos to you for continuing in this venture.
Yea many years ago after i went to tech school i went to work for gm . A few years of that and warranty work was enough for me . I left ans went to work for a utility company at a power plant for 35 years . They furnished everything, all tools, training, bonuses, retirement, 401k, ect ect . Dont regret the opportunity to move on
7:05 I used to build vehicles for GM and during the electronics training they always STRESSED to us how important it was to use that safety clip on every connection. to the point where it was down right annoying but The main reasoning behind it was because they are pumping out as many trucks as they can as fast as they can and there are literally dozens upon dozens of connections on each vehicle that HAVE to ALL be 100% secure and connected EVERY TIME. On the assembly line you are working fast and sometimes you will think you plugged something in but these vehicles dont have power and arent functional until the end of the line so there is no way to test it early on so if you didn't hear that safety connector click into place or you cant push it in then it wasnt fully done and thats how you know. Yes, there are still times were people forget to connect that safety clip and the truck doesnt function right when it is built and they have to tear the entire truck apart trouble shooting whats wrong sometimes even taking the body off the frame to figure out the issue or dropping the headliner or removing a seat but the safety clip helps lower and minimize those issues. plus they know who is in charge of installing each connection at all times so if you mess up even one time somebody will be speaking with you about it shortly. They also put those in because not to mention 2-3 weeks, months, or years down the road you dont want customers coming back to you telling you "Hey this feature doesnt work anymore" and it was because it vibrated loose or became unplugged over time. Yes they are annoying to take out but once they are in. they are in. Fun fact, the Cadillac Escalade wiring harness for the interior weighs upwards of 150lbs of just WIRES and connections can you believe that! I usually don't leave long comments but i chime in whenever i can answer any questions hope this helped.
The fact that you used to work for GM building vehicles, and the fact that you specifically called out the Cadillac Escalade, likely means you worked at Arlington Assembly in Texas.
The fact that you used to work for GM building vehicles, and the fact that you specifically called out the Cadillac Escalade, likely means you worked at Arlington Assembly in Texas.
@@digitalrailroader judging from your handle you must work in the rail yard at Arlington - is that correct?? I used to work there myself years ago... The BOP...
Drive with your 6 speed in 5th. Very little fuel mileage difference but the AFM never activates-and the transmission is much smoother shifting,especially when around town. Nice work Wes
Don't blame yourself for injectors that don't come out easily enough not to destroy themselves. I tell my customers this stuff goes together once. If they break when they are taken apart, don't blame me. I didn't build it, I didn't design it, I didn't buy it. But I have to fix it. You do a great job, keep it up. I have been working on stuff for over 45 years and still love it.
When you showed the misfire on 8 and then again on 6, that hit me straight in the feels. I've been in the same kind of despair and anger mindset too many times to count. Glad you got it sorted -- hopefully it won't haunt your dreams.
When something like that happens to me, I just tip my hat to the Engine Gods and push on. The problem already tormented me enough without renting space in my brain afterwards. NEXT!!
As frustrating as it was to you, the video was great and educational. Real life stuff; both what it took to fix it and the crap GM continues to sell. I just read there's class action lawsuit regarding AFM. Known issue that really needs to be addressed. Thanks for taking us along. Looking forward to your next video.
Pick your poison. You can have AFM failures on a GM, MDS failures on a RAM, or timing chain/VVT failures on a Ford. I guess the Dodge doesn’t have direct injection, it has that going for it.
@@tylermacconnell217 Or you could try maintaining your vehicle. Those are all lubrication related failures, 215,500 on my MDS Jeep and zero issues. Also have customers with 230k+ on VVT Fords, all original timing drive. It's called maintenance.
False. My modern vehicle is far more reliable than simpler equivalents from the past. As are most vehicles. A modern vehicle isn't generally falling apart at 100k miles like they used to. We don't have to constantly dink with distributors, points, or carburetors to keep our vehicles running smooth. A modern vehicle simply requires an additional set of skills and tools. Nothing more,
Two things I really like about you Wes, you never use profanity and you know how to hold a camera. Some people let the camera shake until your dizzy, not you. You also know what your doing and explain very well. You should have been a teacher, your patience is beyond belief.
After particularly difficult days at work, my father would always say “It’s not too late for Dental School”….I’ve never left my job for dental school. Not a knock against dentists, but I imagine working on a live person who feels pain is more difficult than working on most cars…but some days it’s a toss up. Thanks for inviting us along on your frustrating journey with this truck.
Glad you shared the Silverado debacle with us; not all RUclipsrs would do that. But hey, it happens to all of us: just that we're not recording our issues. 👍
Wes, I have been breaking off and throwing unnecessary factory clips and dodads across the shop for more years than you have been alive. Thanks for posting.
We used to call them "no man's clips", because if they were still there, no man has been in there before. Then they started making the ones for the air bag system that MUST be installed.
Fuck the EPA. This is GM at fault. They didn't have to go with this shit design. They ruined the best V8 ever made. It's a joke. I'll stick with my 03 1500HD
Man, I could feel your anger and frustration coming through on this one. Totally justified, and totally relatable. I used to be an industrial mechanic and I experienced my share of moments like this. Watching this really brought me back.
Man that was a hard ride on the struggle bus. Had a good laugh at "They also tell you to jnstall the fuel line in the right direction". Dry Wes humor at its best. Thanks for taking us along, that was a nice prime time watch at Sunday evening.
You are an amazing man Wes! (I'm in my '70s and refuse to drive anything made after about 1990.) I have a 1965 mustang GT and there's nothing I can't change or repair myself on that.
Wes, as a (now former) owner of a new '15 Silverado, I have felt the sting of defeat that was written all over your face at the conclusion of this video. Vibrations with a seemingly endless list of possible causes and plausible fixes (from new to present day). Radios that fail with casading electical consequences, and no available repair parts anywhere at any price. The rice Krispies hidden by the factory in the dashboard (snap crackle pop). Best of all, the 6L80 torque converter, bellhousing, pump doomed to failure (after 49K) if you tow anything of consquential weight over anything resembling a hill. Damn shame GM forgot how to build a reliable truck that not even a qualified mechanic can repair. You are probably better off wrenching on anything else, or at least charging your customers generously to even attempt repairs on these POS. Thanks for another excellent video and tell the Mrs. she needs OSHA approved footwear before moving any more tool boxes.
I was under the impression the 6L80 was slightly better than the 4L60, at least the old shittyE will pull something up a hill BEFORE gaining 5 extra neutrals
@@bigd4512 LOL! what year F-150? did you buy one with the rubber oil pump belt? Or one with like 5 different revisions of the cam phasers and software updates to hide the timing chain rattle? Does it have the 10-speed that's been as bad as the GM 8-speed? There's a class action lawsuit in case you need to join it.
@@lsswappedcessna The 6L80 is better than the 4L60. If you buy a 2014+ truck and want to avoid the torque coverter clutch issue, the thing you need to do is either swap out the transmission cooler bypass valve with either the lower temp aftermarket one, or the part GM came out with in the TSB. It reduces transmission temps by over 40 degrees. Heat and a lack of transmission fluid changes kills the 6-speed. Guys will drive 100k miles on the factory fluid with transmission temps at 190 to 200F and throw act like an angry 3 year old when their transmission acts weird.
At 65 sorry bro. Hard and unfortunately lesson learned. After I lost my butt on a few jobs my dad told me EVERY time engineers call for a specific tool, buy the tool. It sucks but it’s cheaper to buy the tool then it is to loose your butt on the job then still haft to buy the tool. Try not to let it get to you. You are one of the best mechanics I’ve seen. Your ethics are better than I’ve seen in years. Keep your head up and say hi to the “white knuckle” towing service from Texas.
@@ronniewilliz153 I beg to differ. I've worked with WAAAYYY too many mechanics who have "great" ideas. It isn't just "thinking". Just ask those guys, they always have the best thoughts and ideas. Experience, humility, and time-fought wisdom work wonders
Wess what ever you do don't stop talking, it is the best part and shows you personality. Great show, I spent 50 years working on locomotives and rolling stock but could not tolerate some of the rotten vehicles you do! Keep it up, and talk away. Franz
My 2014 has 297,000kms now… zero problems. Has AFM and I try to get it to drop to V4 as much as I can. Literally nothing has broken, stopped working, failed to work or had a hiccup. Just oil changes and gas . Check the forums of the high mile 5.3 and 6.2… I get it, bad stories travel faster and further than good ones unfortunately.
As a heavy equipment mechanic who does work on anything I own usually (luckily mostly all old), I know the struggles. I have watched a lot of your videos and have never commented to my recollection. I know you seem to enjoy the bigger dumber stuff like me and for you to get into this absolute poop show for someone shows loyalty to your customers. Keep up the good work Wes.
MANY years ago I worked in a Texaco service station with a mechanic who complained just like you do about Detroit engineering. After a tirade of words he would chuck a wrench or two. By that time his sense of direction and his throwing arm were unconnected. I was never hit but there were some close calls and some expensive windows. His wish was that the engineers would have to work on the vehicles they had designed.
@@wrenchrat Well said! I would have thought American Automotive Engineers would have learned better design/ease of maintenance techniques over the last 60 years. Clearly, they and those institutions that trained them have clearly failed to learn much. Edwards Deming was right; to hell with Detroit, and he went to Japan. The Japanese listened, learned, innovated and ate Detroit lunch! Roy Lewis Buffalo, NY 🇺🇸
😂 y'all stupid. The higher ups chased profits and regulations on mpg from the EPA. In other words government and profiteering fucked America over, not engineers... Idjits😂
Happened to my brother last year. He was pretty down about it but he repaired it himself. We grew up as backyard mechanics, something I appreciate now. I love doing most of my own work. I trust one guy, though, for the tough parts like my air conditioning. Plus having a little knowledge when something I can’t fix I feel is helpful when describing an issue.
As a mechanic for over 30 years, I really feel your pain but couldn't stop laughing when at the end you show all of those injectors you finally replaced. But look at the bright side, now you can do this job again with your eyes closed. We don't get paid enough for what we do. Thanks for sharing :)
The old car always hides the comings. I salute you for your patience. I got stuck in a Ford F350 diesel truck because of the old injectors and the bad fuel. I follow you from Iraq and now I am in Turkey.
I feel your pain Wes. At my job, if it takes me a day to figure out / repair something that I have never seen before. And it was 8 years ago. You bet your ass I will remember it and when it does show up again, I am a freaking hero because I can fix the machine in record time. My boss know this, which is why they keep me around and pay me well :) Also, thank you for sharing / creating videos. I know it is a pain, after you spend all that time setting up shots, and then editing. Let along doing the actual repairs. Thanks.
Chin up and hang in there Wes! I work on the farm and repairs are done by us with no scope and no fancy computer it's still satisfying to see your repairs and watch my favorite RUclips channel.
Can't believe your viewers give you crap about "left and right" left/driver right/passenger it sucks when trying to find customer complaints. Your videos have made me a better mechanic and I've been doing it for 20 years. I'm more thorough because of you, thank you!
The more it hurts the longer you'll remember it! Sorry you had to go through it but its nice to know I'm not alone in learning things this way! Thanks for the great content Wes.
I hate working on new engines. Happy there are people like you who do that work. If it does not have a carb, I don't touch it. I'm an old dog and I ain't learning no new tricks. But I do like watching others who do. Great Video.
Wes my friend, this video proves your metal. I've been there too and it's a tough spot to be in! It takes true grit to fight through it and it takes even more to be humble enough to share it on RUclips for the benefit of your viewers. Thank you my friend for the awesome videos! Keep up the great work! I look forward to every new video! Take care buddy!
I'm glad it was you and not me this happened to. I probably would have had to retrieve my tools from the walls and door of my garage. I detest doing things twice, let alone 3 damn times. 😡. You got er done though👍👍 Wes.
If you're on the clock and it's not an error of your own, that's one thing. If you're self employed and it's automatically your fault, that's another story.
Love watching you battle the rust belt from San Diego California. The amount of rust on cars out there blows my mind they’re still rolling down the road you fix some amazing stuff give me many good ideas keep it up thank you Wes
Wes, a triple thumbs up on this video. I felt so bad watching you go through this knowing you had to disassemble it so many times. I can tell you this, I will keep my 2001 with the 7.3 Diesel running as long as possible. It's been repainted in sections over the last 10 years, It looks like new. I have fixed and replaced what ever fails. New steering and such. SSBC brakes. I feel like I can pour money into it as needed and still be well under the cost of a newer truck. It pulled my 10,000 pound Toy Hauler with 800 pound motorcycle to Sturgis and back like a triple stack of locomotives in 100+ degree summer heat over 2,400 miles without skipping a beat. Yes it has the re-engineered 4R100 trans (OEM 2nd gear failed at 47,000). It also has some other minor performance mods. The newer trucks are nice to look at but watching this video... I thank God I didn't go with GM. What miserable piece of crap this truck is. The owner should sell it and buy an older truck and restore it like I did. My Superduty has 155,000 original miles (It had 37,000 on it when I found it in 2012) and it runs and drives like a top. No DPF, no DEF and no stupid plastic engine covers except the little cover over the HPOP held on with 2 nuts. You are a great mechanic Wes, and I really enjoy your videos. Please keep taking us along.
Hi Wes, I learned from an old mechanic over 50 years ago when I worked on school busses to use rubbing alcohol on rubber bushings and anything like those injector seals that are not to be lubricated. Works fantastic but you need to be quick. The alcohol evaporated very quickly. I still use it today. Keep a bottle of it by my tool box.
Wes, you have a terrific talent to make the incredibly difficult look straightforward and easy. After watching your videos, I feel like “I shore could do a job like that…NOT!” Thank you for great communication.
This video is the best way to explain to customers why something takes so many hours or why it is so expencive. Also i'm not a mechanic still work alot on my own cars...my 2007 avalanche has a misfire on cylinder 5 and more then one mechanic told me it is a lifter or the camshaft...and you know how it is...if you complete more and more complicated things on your cars you feel like you could do that yourself too....now i know i CANNOT do this job myself. I don't have the tools and i'm not sure i can get all the information that you need on how to screw the stuff back together like it has to be... so this is a very good way to show to us normal ppl that this is a job for an experienced mechanic with ALOT of patience. Thanks alot for this video was fun to watch. To GM...plse make cars like in the 60's again...i repair everything myself on them except for the tranny:)
i felt your pain at the end. I think it is because you work hard to do the job right and control cost and this one didnt go that way. You feel responsible for the extra parts cost, but having watched you for years, I know how careful you are. Hoping you can let it go, wasnt your fault
From one Wes to another, thanks as always for the content. You win some you lose some. Like you said at the end we never stop learning, each mistake is a lesson for the future. Cheers
The trial and tribulations of being a mechanic. Great vid Wes. I understand your frustration especially having to do the job multiple times. Maybe some folks will watch this and get and idea what a mechanic goes through sometimes. Thanks for sharing. I love mrs wes’ safety shoes. 😂
Hi Wes ! Don't give up, keep it up, that's why that your channel is appreciated! For your insight, your knowledge and your and especially your immense patience! Your videos are a pure delight! Thank you for all the work you put into the quality of your videos. Hats off to you Wes ! JC 🔧
Great effort, Wes! I am so gratified that you allow yourself to be stymied, puzzled or just plain goose-screwed once in a while; if for no other reason (beside your own honesty) than to give hope to proverbial shade-tree knuckle busters like me. Did we hear the motor pool princess actually announce she was getting a car off the rack and changing oil on the next in line???? Now if you can get little Spud to start detailing and Max can certify vehicles as rodent-free you guys are set for the future!!!
Wes as a GM mechanic I really like your ingenuity of how to put the seals on the injectors and size them you rocked there boy all them special tools cost of fortune if you can get away without them it's good you did it boy good job
Damn, kudos for sticking with it and not giving up! Your struggles were...palpable, for lack of a better word. THIS is exactly why I subscribe to your channel and find you inspiring🤘 Love the wife helping out by telling you to watch your language - bet that helps on the mood in the heat of the moment 🤣
Ouch. I've heard mystification in your voice before, but never despair. Glad you found it in the end. But "Wes fires the parts cannon on full auto" is something I though I'd never see!
I have watched a few of your videos and really enjoy them. but on this one I liked commented and subscribed. I worked on cars for a Ford dealership from age 22 till age 52 and hung it up. From oil changer thru technician, service writer and was service manager the day I quit. There is great days and bad days. You show great patience, knowledge and determination to get it done that's hard to find in people now days. Keep your head up young man and keep on digging. If it was easy, everyone would be doing what you're doing.
Wes , my buddy and I were just talking about your videos a couple of days ago. We both said "there's some jobs he does that just wear me out watching. " This is one of them. Great videos. Thanks .
Wow, that sucks on a Titanic scale. Makes a guy long for a simpler time when things weren't so easy to screw up (unless your asleep or stupid). I look at the "new stuff" coming out on the market and really start to shy away from it due to the service issues down the road. It's past the point where a guy or gal can go out and wrench on their own car or truck with simple tools to keep things affordable. Now your almost stuck dealing with a stealership or authorized screw you center to get things done. Guess it's time to walk the wrecking yards and rebuild something older and naturally aspirated to get through the next 20 years. Hats off to you Wes for not backing down in a fight, well done. Sadly there just are not enough "Wes's" out there to look after all of us who need your skill set and more over patience to address the "new needs"... Cheers Thanks for the Share P.S. still curious about the bike in the background, it's got a story no doubt. Love to hear about it..
These never end. I've done 3 sets of lifters this week on 2 2019 trucks and a 2020. Got 2 more trucks outside waiting for parts on. They still haven't figured it out on the brand new trucks either
Great video, as always. Also, as always, you took us with you on the good and the bad of the job. My first video I saw of yours was the DT466E timing cover video from way back. And you hooked me with your frank honesty and thoroughness. I am sorry this happened, it sucks, but thanks for sharing even though it was clearly frustrating (and boy have I been right there before after a big job). Keep up the great work!
We appreciate the honesty....I suspect some youtubers would have edited out the real world problems at the end. That is why you are the genuine article ....alternative title to the video: Another crappy day in paradise!!
Repairing a2019 now, lost #5 lifter, caught it soon and no other damage. 2019 is first of the new encryption computers so a Dod delete will cost you about 1200-1400 bucks. Only HP tuners can get in the computer so far. Then you have to buy your parts to replace the Dod cam. About 2200 bucks if you do it yourself. I pulled engine to clean all the bits circulating in the oil. So I’ll have 2500 or so in it. Thanks GM
After #8 came out with a misfire and you had said the injectors came out hard, I had an idea. And when #6 went that firmed it up. Very good work chasing this down. Maybe bounce the cost of 4 injectors against stripping the other head off in the future? Whatever's easiest and/or cheapest. Great work - even better diagnosis. Thanks.
Or the cost of that fancy tool meant for the job vs the pry bars on hand. Probably still safer to pull the head and do a "free inspection and fresh gasket" for the customer. Forget the cost I'm sure he burned more hours alone on the injectors than if he pulled the head. Then again if they had just worked Pulling the other heads a waste of time and how often you gonna use the fancy tool?
Canadian mechanic here, I've done a few sets of these lifters. I dunno if it's a local/dealership thing, but when I did the last one, they happily sold my shop the lifters without the AFM manifold; every single time the lifter roller is fine as is the camshaft, but the lifter is collapsed. I've also reused the fuel hard lines without issues, and I've always left the injectors and rails in the head. I noticed that on the non-direct injected engines (07-13), they usually had 300,000+ km on them before the lifters go, whereas the direct injection engines will have as low as 100,000 km (~65,000 miles!) on them when this happens. No wonder OEMs are kinda bailing on direct injection now.
@@andrewsmart2949 Yeah, I was mostly going off of Toyota using both sets of injectors, as well as a 2022 Elantra that came through my shop that had only conventional injection. It had eight injectors, funnily enough, two for each port, but no direct injection. I'd imagine once oil technology or PCV management catches up then the carbon buildup issues will be cured, but until then port injection still seems like the better option.
It turns out that direct injection is a major contributor to early timing chain failures. Apparently it puts fine carbon grit into the oil. Manufacturers are going to longer and longer oil change intervals. If you have one of these you should change the oil at 5,000 no matter what. I think some people feel that going by the computer and running for 9,000 (without checking the oil) is considered good maintenance. It's not.
I find your videos to be both entertaining and educational. I have learned much about certain vehicles that I will never own and never work on. This is one of them.
@@johns.4152 My friend had a 2010 Silverado that this happened to. We decided at the time to do the AFM delete - ordered a new cam and 16 new standard lifters, and sent the PCM off to have the AFM/DOD flashed out of it. Ran great when all was said and done.
@@johns.4152 Until the crudyota dealer says $220 JUST TO SCAN your Camry because it's sputtering and losing power and the exhaust stinks. California car, 50 State emissions. $220 doesn't fix it, and possibly won't find the issues. I did the Plugs wires one 0² sensor both pairs of coils. MAP Sensor 4 cylinder possibly the 2.2. I had it scanned by a shop in Madison WI that specializes in drivability issues, they couldn't find it. Oh well I got hit hard before I had to put any more money 💰 into it. no I'll keep my 2004 CHEVROLET TrailBlazer 199,344 miles. No oil burning no serious issues
you always manage to make me so happy that I retired from that trade before some of this junk was built, not that they didn't build enough junk in my time, but it seems like they left a little more access in the past
All access to anything is gone. Manufacturers only think about assembly line installation. The trucks nowadays seem so big, but have no room in engine area. To much plastic and flair instead of function and serviceability!
I feel the struggel.. I dont know what it is but i find these kind of films calming.. must be something wierd about watching other struggle.. keep up the good work Wes. Greetings from Norway
The Bmw gdi engines I've worked on at main dealer, we had the special puller like you described to remove Injectors. It specified a max torque to turn the threaded puller if that number is exceeded to extract the injector to then scrap that injector and replace with a new one, And the torque was low like 10nm! Feel your pain, well done for persevering 👏P.s proper Teflon gap and shrink tools are 👌
Just went through this on my 2016 silverado. A good fellow told me. Dont replace just one injector. Because others will start to go. Glad I listened. Did all 8. Although it cost me 3200 cdn. Great work sir
I'm in the middle of the same repair. It's a ton of work. I prefer the old LS design. So much easier. Thanks for the comprehensive video. Really helped me to do it at home.
Having just criticised you for calling a split pin a cotter pin, I feel I ought to say that it is obvious to a fellow engineer that you have great diagnostic skill, and ultimate patience an perseverance. I feel for you as you seem to get basket cases which would never be allowed on UK roads. Apart from that you are lucky to be supported by your lovely Wife and devoted Dog Max You are a true honest gentleman and obviously happy in your family environment. Well done you keep it up. We brits love your channel
My 2015 is doing the same thing right now with the misfire. I have all 8 injectors on order. Thankfully I don't have a stuck lifter like the truck you worked on. I just went through all 8 coils, wires and Spark plugs to make sure they had spark and they do. But when I start driving it all of the sudden it falls on its face just like the truck you worked on. Awesome video. Thank you!
Hello wes, I take my hat off to you. Your assumptions about where and, above all, how errors occur, followed by an explanation, put a smile on my face. I would have wished for a teacher like that during my apprenticeship as a car mechanic. Please share your experiences with us. No matter how long you've been in the business, you never stop learning.
Great job, definitely know how you felt having to tear into something multiple times. Anyway it was very educational and I’m sure this video will help someone in the future. Keep em comin brother.
What a Great Video, with real life problems. It really sucks when you try to do everything correctly and save the customer as much money as possible, but the Gremlins have another plan. Be interesting to see if they got tweaked or if there was injector damage. Seems like there would be some way to check them out. I’m sure it took you some time to be able to make a Channel friendly commentary. The clips of the wife fighting with the toolbox were a great addition, I bet the box is heavy. Thanks very much for taking us along on your stressful adventure.
Great video, Wes. Thanks for sharing it. I think the lesson I take away from this is to just do both heads and don't mess with the injectors. Once you're down that far it's not that much more time to remove that other head, aside from the 3 exhaust bolts that virtually always require a torch. The lifters on the other head are going to fail pretty soon, too, so might as well replace them at the same time.
The injectors are not terribly expensive. It's about $300 for the injectors vs around $200 for the head gasket, valve cover gasket, exhuast manifold gasket, and head bolts. But pulling the head would add another 5ish hours.
@@WatchWesWork I get that but for the few hours more work all the lifters are new. I'd be concerned that in a month a lifter will fail on the other bank. I haven't been asked to do one of these yet but I know at some point I will be. Videos like yours help a lot in how to sell the job.
Watching this video I felt bad for you Wes. You are one of the best technicians/mechanics I've seen. I am glad for you that you were able to fix it and get it out of the shop. Kee up the good work. Wishing you the best.
I have an '09 with afm. I experienced disappearing oil, clogged screen by the oil pressure sensor,etc. I replaced screen and did valve cover update and got a Range AFM disabler and have had zero problems since. I now have 220,000 .miles on it with zero engine related issues.(trans is another story!) A $70 updated valve cover and a $120 Range AFM disabler has I believe, saved me. Drive it 80-100 miles/day for 3+ yrs since doing it.
@@skykingnikiski8817 , designed specifically for dealer to make more money in service and part when things are more complicated. 99% of people would not attempt this in their garage
This is one of those situations where as a single guy shop you have to weigh whether or not to charge the customer for everything or chalk some of it up to the learning curve. When you’re a sole proprietor your reputation is everything. But you also must make a living. Finding that balance is key to your long term survival. Best to you Wes!! I’ve been right there with you even though in a completely different profession. Thanks as always!! All‘s well that ends well!!
OMG! What a freaking nightmare! That is the reason I got out of the Auto Repair trade 30 years ago! I still repair my own vehicles with in reason. Anyting major repairs go to a guy like Wes. This is what I like about your Channel, it's real life in the automotive repair business. Most of the time things go smooth, but then a vehicle comes along that you just want to light on fire!😂
GM was so concerned about the fuel lines they forgot to mention the injectors were so prone to failure if you swore taking them out , lesson learned . Your patience is amazing Wes , I would have lost it . Another one under the belt .
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
I was a mechanic, I’m now 80, so that’s over. This video reminds me of the backbreaking drudgery involved with major engine work. This was before computers ran everything. The diagnosis was much easier, the systems were simple, basic. I could do a complete valve job on a1955 ford V-8, including grinding the valves and seats (I had a valve grinding machine on the end of my bench). Time for this project = 4 hours. Complete brake system overhaul including new shoes, brake drum machining, honing the wheel cylinders and bleeding the brake fluid= 4 hours. I worked alone and I had a NAPA parts store one block away. Simpler times, simpler systems. No waiting for parts to be shipped and I made a living. This was in Los Angles where I was raised.
sometimes the old way is the best way. Hope your doing fine.
I can literally feel your frustration and pain with this one Wes. Sometimes you're the top dog, sometimes you're the fire hydrant. The nightmare is over and tomorrow's a new day though!
Videos like these are what deter me from ever doing mechanic work for money. lol.. I don't mind working on stuff to help my friends; but every time I've tried to take money for a job, something ends up burning me that I didn't anticipate; and it's always a struggle to try to get the customer to pay that extra cost without a fight.. Otherwise you eat the cost and lose all your profit, or waste all your time. smh.. It gives me nightmares and keeps me up at night.... What a bummer-- I know your struggle on this one and it's painful to watch.
DIFFICULT...what a hard engine to work on. Here I was thinking, OK just a hydraulic lifter . Easy enough just pull the intake and replace... Then you start pulling all the left side valve gear , then the head and all injection bs! I WAS LIKE WT actual F! Then to have all those (non replaceable non gettable gm guff) I'm like Hollycow! And then the tightening sequence is like your working on the space shuttle! Then the finicky injection bs ... what a turd design. You have the stress of trying to explain all this to the client and not lose money on it. You did well not to give up.
@@calholli Videos like these are what deter me from ever buying anything with this engine (or many other engines)!
Driver side odd passenger side even
Check the computer
Almost a full hour with Wes. Made my day.
I TRIED BUT WES WIFE IS A DEMOCRAT TEACHER .... I LIKE WES BUT I CAN NOT STAND HIS WIFE BECAUSE SHE IS A CRT TEACHER .....LOOK IT UP FOR URSELF ... NOT TRYING TO BRING POLITICS INTO THIS BUT AFTER 5 + YEARS OF DEMOCRATS ...... A DEMOCRAT IS A DEMOCRAT AT TGE END OF THE DAY ......DEMOCRATS ARE EVIL BY NATURE ..
Agreed. The weather is nice and need to work on my own truck, but this is better. I'll learn something new.
See @ 24:40 - would I need to do that on my own? Likely not, but that could be used elsewhere.
Yes I'll second that!
Spot on - third!
Well, it has taken most of a decade, but GM has finally succeeded in removing all of the joy of working on one of their engines to accomplish anything more complicated than an oil change... And yes, that sucks... You Sir, have my utmost respect for the work you do...
Gm has succeeded in removing any desire to own one newer than 1980!
@@sunbeam8866 YESSS!
@@sunbeam8866 I lost my desire to own a GM in 1977, when I took the head off of my 71 Vega. Even a 16 yr old knew an aluminum piston runing in an aluminum bore was asking for trouble quickly.
@@ronjenkins6674 Yeah. The Vega was the poster-child for everything wrong with GM. And, apparently not willing to learn from GM's mistake, about 20 years ago, BMW had similar problems with some of their 'sleeveless' aluminum engines!
Your correct. Im 2 months owning my 2017 silverado 1500 4x4 with only 30,000 miles. Got from a local reputable dealership. I checked and checked and looked and is in awesome shape. Now it needs a torque convertor and afm issues making more and more ticking and front diff bearings at cv shaft mating area. So glad to be with this super reliable chevy after my pacifica engine imploded with the newest issue #7 valve failure then cam and cylinder and more.
I miss any of my 70s and 80s cars. Why oh why did i ever sell em and go modern each decade.
Now almost 50 im working toward going back to older cars and just rebuild to like new
In July of 2000, I packed up my tools and took my four ASE master certs off the wall and went home. I was fed up. I never looked back, either. Kudos to you for continuing in this venture.
Me too , years ago ,but im still stuck doing it for myself 😢
Yea many years ago after i went to tech school i went to work for gm . A few years of that and warranty work was enough for me . I left ans went to work for a utility company at a power plant for 35 years . They furnished everything, all tools, training, bonuses, retirement, 401k, ect ect . Dont regret the opportunity to move on
Loving the Mrs Wes calming conversation. Classic!!
"...language..."
I don’t think I’ve ever been called calming before.
@@mrswes I wonder if that's the reason why Wes' hair color is looking like Eric O's now..
@@mrswes I wonder if that's the reason why Wes' hair color is looking like Eric O's now..
7:05 I used to build vehicles for GM and during the electronics training they always STRESSED to us how important it was to use that safety clip on every connection. to the point where it was down right annoying but The main reasoning behind it was because they are pumping out as many trucks as they can as fast as they can and there are literally dozens upon dozens of connections on each vehicle that HAVE to ALL be 100% secure and connected EVERY TIME. On the assembly line you are working fast and sometimes you will think you plugged something in but these vehicles dont have power and arent functional until the end of the line so there is no way to test it early on so if you didn't hear that safety connector click into place or you cant push it in then it wasnt fully done and thats how you know.
Yes, there are still times were people forget to connect that safety clip and the truck doesnt function right when it is built and they have to tear the entire truck apart trouble shooting whats wrong sometimes even taking the body off the frame to figure out the issue or dropping the headliner or removing a seat but the safety clip helps lower and minimize those issues. plus they know who is in charge of installing each connection at all times so if you mess up even one time somebody will be speaking with you about it shortly.
They also put those in because not to mention 2-3 weeks, months, or years down the road you dont want customers coming back to you telling you "Hey this feature doesnt work anymore" and it was because it vibrated loose or became unplugged over time. Yes they are annoying to take out but once they are in. they are in.
Fun fact, the Cadillac Escalade wiring harness for the interior weighs upwards of 150lbs of just WIRES and connections can you believe that!
I usually don't leave long comments but i chime in whenever i can answer any questions hope this helped.
The fact that you used to work for GM building vehicles, and the fact that you specifically called out the Cadillac Escalade, likely means you worked at Arlington Assembly in Texas.
The fact that you used to work for GM building vehicles, and the fact that you specifically called out the Cadillac Escalade, likely means you worked at Arlington Assembly in Texas.
@@digitalrailroader judging from your handle you must work in the rail yard at Arlington - is that correct?? I used to work there myself years ago... The BOP...
That doesnt explain why gm insists on using 3 COMPLETELY DIFFERENT connectors on the carbon canisters hoses. WTF sense does that even make. lol
So, what you are saying is this stuff is your fault...
Wes your customers are lucky to have you as their trusted mechanic.
Drive with your 6 speed in 5th. Very little fuel mileage difference but the AFM never activates-and the transmission is much smoother shifting,especially when around town. Nice work Wes
Range AFM disabler
Don't blame yourself for injectors that don't come out easily enough not to destroy themselves. I tell my customers this stuff goes together once. If they break when they are taken apart, don't blame me. I didn't build it, I didn't design it, I didn't buy it. But I have to fix it. You do a great job, keep it up. I have been working on stuff for over 45 years and still love it.
When you showed the misfire on 8 and then again on 6, that hit me straight in the feels. I've been in the same kind of despair and anger mindset too many times to count. Glad you got it sorted -- hopefully it won't haunt your dreams.
Yup, been there, done that!
When something like that happens to me, I just tip my hat to the Engine Gods and push on. The problem already tormented me enough without renting space in my brain afterwards. NEXT!!
😂😂😂😂
As frustrating as it was to you, the video was great and educational. Real life stuff; both what it took to fix it and the crap GM continues to sell. I just read there's class action lawsuit regarding AFM. Known issue that really needs to be addressed.
Thanks for taking us along. Looking forward to your next video.
Where do you look for that kinda stuff on the makers website or elsewhere ?
also how environment friendly gdi technology is? look at the parts that are going into scrap to support this delicate technology
Pick your poison. You can have AFM failures on a GM, MDS failures on a RAM, or timing chain/VVT failures on a Ford. I guess the Dodge doesn’t have direct injection, it has that going for it.
@@tylermacconnell217
Or you could try maintaining your vehicle. Those are all lubrication related failures, 215,500 on my MDS Jeep and zero issues. Also have customers with 230k+ on VVT Fords, all original timing drive. It's called maintenance.
But I'll bet you didn't have to deal with a parts shortage the second and third time you went in there.
Wow! The farther we advance with new technology, the more reliability and money go out the window. Wow! Hang in there Wes!
well with more sensors and wires, more variability is introduced meaning more things can go wrong.
Just wait until subscription door locks drop on your government mandated over-priced shit-tier quality electric vehicle. lol.
All those fuel management systems arent worth the code they used to write it...complete waste of programming
False. My modern vehicle is far more reliable than simpler equivalents from the past. As are most vehicles. A modern vehicle isn't generally falling apart at 100k miles like they used to. We don't have to constantly dink with distributors, points, or carburetors to keep our vehicles running smooth.
A modern vehicle simply requires an additional set of skills and tools. Nothing more,
@@watcherofwatchers If by modern you mean 90s or early 2000s, a lot of stuff seems to have gone downhill from then on.
I watched this and concluded I'd never want to be a modern day mechanic. You're a rock star, dude!
Two things I really like about you Wes, you never use profanity and you know how to hold a camera. Some people let the camera shake until your dizzy, not you. You also know what your doing and explain very well. You should have been a teacher, your patience is beyond belief.
You're bitching about free content online not being high enough quality for your standards. It takes ONE CLICK to get out of my yard kid.
A big and a no no for me. I don't watch videos, if I hear any profanity.
hahahhaha@@PoisonShot20
He edits them out
I also enjoy the calm intro; not some annoying jingle or loud music
After particularly difficult days at work, my father would always say “It’s not too late for Dental School”….I’ve never left my job for dental school. Not a knock against dentists, but I imagine working on a live person who feels pain is more difficult than working on most cars…but some days it’s a toss up. Thanks for inviting us along on your frustrating journey with this truck.
Glad you shared the Silverado debacle with us; not all RUclipsrs would do that. But hey, it happens to all of us: just that we're not recording our issues. 👍
Wes, I have been breaking off and throwing unnecessary factory clips and dodads across the shop for more years than you have been alive. Thanks for posting.
Great to hear!
I was waiting for Wes to toss that stupid beauty cover in the trash as I was
thinking "the intake gaskets are being dislodged during reassembly"
We used to call them "no man's clips", because if they were still there, no man has been in there before. Then they started making the ones for the air bag system that MUST be installed.
Leave it to GM to take an absolutely legendary and bulletproof engine, and absolutely sabotage it up by adding AFM & DOD. Seriously what the hell.
What’s dod
@@willlonergan8753 Displacement on demand. Shutting down of cylinders essentially.
blame the EPA, you know its their fault, just look at the way they said you have to make gas cans.
I just buy the race jugs that fill super fast. Screw those junky Jerry cans.
Fuck the EPA. This is GM at fault. They didn't have to go with this shit design. They ruined the best V8 ever made. It's a joke. I'll stick with my 03 1500HD
I know it was stressful, but take some comfort in knowing literally thousands of people wish we knew a good honest mechanic like you!
Man, I could feel your anger and frustration coming through on this one. Totally justified, and totally relatable. I used to be an industrial mechanic and I experienced my share of moments like this. Watching this really brought me back.
Really enjoyed your very informative vid. Not sure if I want to go back to my 10 mpg 327 or keep my 20 mpg 5.3??
I think every mechanic knows that feeling - when you realise there's no option but to redo the last several hours of work... I felt your pain
Having to redo things SUCKKKKKKSSSASS
same
Im doing similar repair again. Ugh.
@@tbohtwentyone again? Bruh
Man that was a hard ride on the struggle bus. Had a good laugh at "They also tell you to jnstall the fuel line in the right direction". Dry Wes humor at its best. Thanks for taking us along, that was a nice prime time watch at Sunday evening.
You are an amazing man Wes! (I'm in my '70s and refuse to drive anything made after about 1990.) I have a 1965 mustang GT and there's nothing I can't change or repair myself on that.
Wes, as a (now former) owner of a new '15 Silverado, I have felt the sting of defeat that was written all over your face at the conclusion of this video. Vibrations with a seemingly endless list of possible causes and plausible fixes (from new to present day). Radios that fail with casading electical consequences, and no available repair parts anywhere at any price. The rice Krispies hidden by the factory in the dashboard (snap crackle pop). Best of all, the 6L80 torque converter, bellhousing, pump doomed to failure (after 49K) if you tow anything of consquential weight over anything resembling a hill. Damn shame GM forgot how to build a reliable truck that not even a qualified mechanic can repair. You are probably better off wrenching on anything else, or at least charging your customers generously to even attempt repairs on these POS. Thanks for another excellent video and tell the Mrs. she needs OSHA approved footwear before moving any more tool boxes.
I was under the impression the 6L80 was slightly better than the 4L60, at least the old shittyE will pull something up a hill BEFORE gaining 5 extra neutrals
I am a former owner of a 2015 Silverado, and once the tranny went and I learned of other pending issues such as the lifter ditched it for a Ford F150.
@@bigd4512if it's the ecoboost then you replaced one POS with another, I hope it works fine with you though
@@bigd4512 LOL! what year F-150? did you buy one with the rubber oil pump belt? Or one with like 5 different revisions of the cam phasers and software updates to hide the timing chain rattle? Does it have the 10-speed that's been as bad as the GM 8-speed? There's a class action lawsuit in case you need to join it.
@@lsswappedcessna The 6L80 is better than the 4L60. If you buy a 2014+ truck and want to avoid the torque coverter clutch issue, the thing you need to do is either swap out the transmission cooler bypass valve with either the lower temp aftermarket one, or the part GM came out with in the TSB. It reduces transmission temps by over 40 degrees. Heat and a lack of transmission fluid changes kills the 6-speed. Guys will drive 100k miles on the factory fluid with transmission temps at 190 to 200F and throw act like an angry 3 year old when their transmission acts weird.
At 65 sorry bro. Hard and unfortunately lesson learned. After I lost my butt on a few jobs my dad told me EVERY time engineers call for a specific tool, buy the tool. It sucks but it’s cheaper to buy the tool then it is to loose your butt on the job then still haft to buy the tool. Try not to let it get to you. You are one of the best mechanics I’ve seen. Your ethics are better than I’ve seen in years. Keep your head up and say hi to the “white knuckle” towing service from Texas.
Next level genius on those injector seals....saves having to buy tools. these are the tricks that other mechanics take years to learn
All you gotta do is just think
@@ronniewilliz153 I beg to differ. I've worked with WAAAYYY too many mechanics who have "great" ideas. It isn't just "thinking". Just ask those guys, they always have the best thoughts and ideas.
Experience, humility, and time-fought wisdom work wonders
@@typrus6377 that's how they figured it out lol
Wess what ever you do don't stop talking, it is the best part and shows you personality.
Great show, I spent 50 years working on locomotives and rolling stock but could not tolerate some of the rotten vehicles you do!
Keep it up, and talk away. Franz
Late model GM trucks are off my list of what I will own. You showed us exactly why.
If you turn it off they don't collapse
Sadly no maker is any better. You couldn't pay any amount of money to own a newer Chrysler product. Absolute jokes
My 2014 has 297,000kms now… zero problems. Has AFM and I try to get it to drop to V4 as much as I can.
Literally nothing has broken, stopped working, failed to work or had a hiccup.
Just oil changes and gas .
Check the forums of the high mile 5.3 and 6.2…
I get it, bad stories travel faster and further than good ones unfortunately.
How do they compare to a Ford triton?
Late model ANYTHING! 🙂
As a heavy equipment mechanic who does work on anything I own usually (luckily mostly all old), I know the struggles. I have watched a lot of your videos and have never commented to my recollection. I know you seem to enjoy the bigger dumber stuff like me and for you to get into this absolute poop show for someone shows loyalty to your customers. Keep up the good work Wes.
Per the GM engineering coloring book:
10 hours to remove electrical connections.
2 hours for lifter replacement.
MANY years ago I worked in a Texaco service station with a mechanic who complained just like you do about Detroit engineering. After a tirade of words he would chuck a wrench or two. By that time his sense of direction and his throwing arm were unconnected. I was never hit but there were some close calls and some expensive windows. His wish was that the engineers would have to work on the vehicles they had designed.
Any people wonder why the Japanese ate Detroit's lunch
Is why they say a mechanic fucked an engineers wife.
@@wrenchrat
Well said!
I would have thought American Automotive Engineers would have learned better design/ease of maintenance techniques over the last 60 years. Clearly, they and those institutions that trained them have clearly failed to learn much.
Edwards Deming was right; to hell with Detroit, and he went to Japan. The Japanese listened, learned, innovated and ate Detroit lunch!
Roy Lewis Buffalo, NY 🇺🇸
😂 y'all stupid. The higher ups chased profits and regulations on mpg from the EPA. In other words government and profiteering fucked America over, not engineers... Idjits😂
Happened to my brother last year. He was pretty down about it but he repaired it himself. We grew up as backyard mechanics, something I appreciate now. I love doing most of my own work. I trust one guy, though, for the tough parts like my air conditioning. Plus having a little knowledge when something I can’t fix I feel is helpful when describing an issue.
As a mechanic for over 30 years, I really feel your pain but couldn't stop laughing when at the end you show all of those injectors you finally replaced. But look at the bright side, now you can do this job again with your eyes closed. We don't get paid enough for what we do. Thanks for sharing :)
The old car always hides the comings. I salute you for your patience. I got stuck in a Ford F350 diesel truck because of the old injectors and the bad fuel. I follow you from Iraq and now I am in Turkey.
I feel your pain Wes. At my job, if it takes me a day to figure out / repair something that I have never seen before. And it was 8 years ago. You bet your ass I will remember it and when it does show up again, I am a freaking hero because I can fix the machine in record time. My boss know this, which is why they keep me around and pay me well :) Also, thank you for sharing / creating videos. I know it is a pain, after you spend all that time setting up shots, and then editing. Let along doing the actual repairs. Thanks.
You are 100% correct about the left/right reference. It was that way 45 years ago when I started wrenching on stuff and it’s the same today.
Chin up and hang in there Wes! I work on the farm and repairs are done by us with no scope and no fancy computer it's still satisfying to see your repairs and watch my favorite RUclips channel.
Can't believe your viewers give you crap about "left and right" left/driver right/passenger it sucks when trying to find customer complaints. Your videos have made me a better mechanic and I've been doing it for 20 years. I'm more thorough because of you, thank you!
The more it hurts the longer you'll remember it! Sorry you had to go through it but its nice to know I'm not alone in learning things this way! Thanks for the great content Wes.
I hate working on new engines. Happy there are people like you who do that work. If it does not have a carb, I don't touch it. I'm an old dog and I ain't learning no new tricks. But I do like watching others who do. Great Video.
Wes my friend, this video proves your metal. I've been there too and it's a tough spot to be in! It takes true grit to fight through it and it takes even more to be humble enough to share it on RUclips for the benefit of your viewers. Thank you my friend for the awesome videos! Keep up the great work! I look forward to every new video! Take care buddy!
Mettle. But we get your point. Lolol
I'm glad it was you and not me this happened to. I probably would have had to retrieve my tools from the walls and door of my garage. I detest doing things twice, let alone 3 damn times. 😡. You got er done though👍👍 Wes.
If you're on the clock and it's not an error of your own, that's one thing. If you're self employed and it's automatically your fault, that's another story.
2 times is my limit.
I refuse to do anything more than twice.
Especially repeating myself to someone. Lol.
Love watching you battle the rust belt from San Diego California. The amount of rust on cars out there blows my mind they’re still rolling down the road you fix some amazing stuff give me many good ideas keep it up thank you Wes
Who do you trust to wrench your vehicles? Always looking for recommendations of reliable honest mechanics!
@@andyfumo8931 I slam 40 year tech. Work on my own or my son.
Wes, a triple thumbs up on this video. I felt so bad watching you go through this knowing you had to disassemble it so many times. I can tell you this, I will keep my 2001 with the 7.3 Diesel running as long as possible. It's been repainted in sections over the last 10 years, It looks like new. I have fixed and replaced what ever fails. New steering and such. SSBC brakes. I feel like I can pour money into it as needed and still be well under the cost of a newer truck. It pulled my 10,000 pound Toy Hauler with 800 pound motorcycle to Sturgis and back like a triple stack of locomotives in 100+ degree summer heat over 2,400 miles without skipping a beat. Yes it has the re-engineered 4R100 trans (OEM 2nd gear failed at 47,000). It also has some other minor performance mods. The newer trucks are nice to look at but watching this video... I thank God I didn't go with GM. What miserable piece of crap this truck is. The owner should sell it and buy an older truck and restore it like I did. My Superduty has 155,000 original miles (It had 37,000 on it when I found it in 2012) and it runs and drives like a top. No DPF, no DEF and no stupid plastic engine covers except the little cover over the HPOP held on with 2 nuts.
You are a great mechanic Wes, and I really enjoy your videos. Please keep taking us along.
long live the seven three
@@The4Z And God said "Let there be the venerable 7.3 Navistar!" Amen Amen I say to you, and God saw that it was good. And the Lord was happy.
Every time I watch a video like this, it makes me very happy that I am still driving my 2000 Yukon. Great video by the way.
Hi Wes, I learned from an old mechanic over 50 years ago when I worked on school busses to use rubbing alcohol on rubber bushings and anything like those injector seals that are not to be lubricated. Works fantastic but you need to be quick. The alcohol evaporated very quickly. I still use it today. Keep a bottle of it by my tool box.
Wes, you have a terrific talent to make the incredibly difficult look straightforward and easy. After watching your videos, I feel like “I shore could do a job like that…NOT!” Thank you for great communication.
This video is the best way to explain to customers why something takes so many hours or why it is so expencive. Also i'm not a mechanic still work alot on my own cars...my 2007 avalanche has a misfire on cylinder 5 and more then one mechanic told me it is a lifter or the camshaft...and you know how it is...if you complete more and more complicated things on your cars you feel like you could do that yourself too....now i know i CANNOT do this job myself. I don't have the tools and i'm not sure i can get all the information that you need on how to screw the stuff back together like it has to be... so this is a very good way to show to us normal ppl that this is a job for an experienced mechanic with ALOT of patience. Thanks alot for this video was fun to watch.
To GM...plse make cars like in the 60's again...i repair everything myself on them except for the tranny:)
I really appreciate videos where the whole story and failures in repairs are told. Nicely executed.
For what it’s worth, I like these slightly longer videos.
i felt your pain at the end. I think it is because you work hard to do the job right and control cost and this one didnt go that way. You feel responsible for the extra parts cost, but having watched you for years, I know how careful you are. Hoping you can let it go, wasnt your fault
hope he didn't have to pay for the extra parts!! I'd fully expect the customer might go ahead and blame him.. "it was fine until you took it off" LoL
From one Wes to another, thanks as always for the content. You win some you lose some. Like you said at the end we never stop learning, each mistake is a lesson for the future.
Cheers
The trial and tribulations of being a mechanic. Great vid Wes. I understand your frustration especially having to do the job multiple times. Maybe some folks will watch this and get and idea what a mechanic goes through sometimes. Thanks for sharing. I love mrs wes’ safety shoes. 😂
Hi Wes !
Don't give up, keep it up, that's why
that your channel is appreciated!
For your insight, your knowledge and your
and especially your immense patience!
Your videos are a pure delight!
Thank you for all the work you put into the quality of your videos.
Hats off to you Wes !
JC 🔧
I was about to fix my lawnmower, but now have something much better to do. Great timing sir.
Great effort, Wes! I am so gratified that you allow yourself to be stymied, puzzled or just plain goose-screwed once in a while; if for no other reason (beside your own honesty) than to give hope to proverbial shade-tree knuckle busters like me.
Did we hear the motor pool princess actually announce she was getting a car off the rack and changing oil on the next in line???? Now if you can get little Spud to start detailing and Max can certify vehicles as rodent-free you guys are set for the future!!!
Yes, Wes still has to help, but I try
Thanks for bringing us along again. My Sunday morning is complete.
Wes as a GM mechanic I really like your ingenuity of how to put the seals on the injectors and size them you rocked there boy all them special tools cost of fortune if you can get away without them it's good you did it boy good job
Damn, kudos for sticking with it and not giving up! Your struggles were...palpable, for lack of a better word. THIS is exactly why I subscribe to your channel and find you inspiring🤘 Love the wife helping out by telling you to watch your language - bet that helps on the mood in the heat of the moment 🤣
Ouch. I've heard mystification in your voice before, but never despair. Glad you found it in the end.
But "Wes fires the parts cannon on full auto" is something I though I'd never see!
Those hard knock lessons truly suck!! You are top notch Wes for getting things right even though it's not cost effective on your end. God Bless!
Yes the old carbureted engines were hard to start and so on. I long for the simplicity.
They weren't that hard to start, they might be a little grumpy below 50, but as long as you could get them to keep an idle, they were fine.
I have watched a few of your videos and really enjoy them. but on this one I liked commented and subscribed. I worked on cars for a Ford dealership from age 22 till age 52 and hung it up. From oil changer thru technician, service writer and was service manager the day I quit. There is great days and bad days. You show great patience, knowledge and determination to get it done that's hard to find in people now days. Keep your head up young man and keep on digging. If it was easy, everyone would be doing what you're doing.
Wes , my buddy and I were just talking about your videos a couple of days ago. We both said "there's some jobs he does that just wear me out watching. " This is one of them. Great videos. Thanks .
Wow, that sucks on a Titanic scale. Makes a guy long for a simpler time when things weren't so easy to screw up (unless your asleep or stupid). I look at the "new stuff" coming out on the market and really start to shy away from it due to the service issues down the road. It's past the point where a guy or gal can go out and wrench on their own car or truck with simple tools to keep things affordable. Now your almost stuck dealing with a stealership or authorized screw you center to get things done. Guess it's time to walk the wrecking yards and rebuild something older and naturally aspirated to get through the next 20 years. Hats off to you Wes for not backing down in a fight, well done. Sadly there just are not enough "Wes's" out there to look after all of us who need your skill set and more over patience to address the "new needs"... Cheers Thanks for the Share P.S. still curious about the bike in the background, it's got a story no doubt. Love to hear about it..
These never end. I've done 3 sets of lifters this week on 2 2019 trucks and a 2020. Got 2 more trucks outside waiting for parts on. They still haven't figured it out on the brand new trucks either
You should look up the 800 number for suicide watch.
Some people truly love misery
Great video, as always. Also, as always, you took us with you on the good and the bad of the job. My first video I saw of yours was the DT466E timing cover video from way back. And you hooked me with your frank honesty and thoroughness. I am sorry this happened, it sucks, but thanks for sharing even though it was clearly frustrating (and boy have I been right there before after a big job). Keep up the great work!
We appreciate the honesty....I suspect some youtubers would have edited out the real world problems at the end. That is why you are the genuine article
....alternative title to the video: Another crappy day in paradise!!
Repairing a2019 now, lost #5 lifter, caught it soon and no other damage. 2019 is first of the new encryption computers so a Dod delete will cost you about 1200-1400 bucks. Only HP tuners can get in the computer so far. Then you have to buy your parts to replace the Dod cam. About 2200 bucks if you do it yourself. I pulled engine to clean all the bits circulating in the oil. So I’ll have 2500 or so in it. Thanks GM
For years i am enjoying your vids Wes, thank you man for taking me on this trip and let me watch you work! 🛠
After #8 came out with a misfire and you had said the injectors came out hard, I had an idea. And when #6 went that firmed it up. Very good work chasing this down. Maybe bounce the cost of 4 injectors against stripping the other head off in the future? Whatever's easiest and/or cheapest.
Great work - even better diagnosis. Thanks.
Or the cost of that fancy tool meant for the job vs the pry bars on hand. Probably still safer to pull the head and do a "free inspection and fresh gasket" for the customer. Forget the cost I'm sure he burned more hours alone on the injectors than if he pulled the head. Then again if they had just worked Pulling the other heads a waste of time and how often you gonna use the fancy tool?
Canadian mechanic here, I've done a few sets of these lifters. I dunno if it's a local/dealership thing, but when I did the last one, they happily sold my shop the lifters without the AFM manifold; every single time the lifter roller is fine as is the camshaft, but the lifter is collapsed. I've also reused the fuel hard lines without issues, and I've always left the injectors and rails in the head. I noticed that on the non-direct injected engines (07-13), they usually had 300,000+ km on them before the lifters go, whereas the direct injection engines will have as low as 100,000 km (~65,000 miles!) on them when this happens. No wonder OEMs are kinda bailing on direct injection now.
i wouldnt say they are bailing on DI,they have put port injectors back in to reduce carbon build up in intake valves but DI is here to stay
@@andrewsmart2949 Yeah, I was mostly going off of Toyota using both sets of injectors, as well as a 2022 Elantra that came through my shop that had only conventional injection. It had eight injectors, funnily enough, two for each port, but no direct injection. I'd imagine once oil technology or PCV management catches up then the carbon buildup issues will be cured, but until then port injection still seems like the better option.
@@EddyLancerHands direct is the best but it is having some teething issues LOL
@@andrewsmart2949 then why are there a number of makes ditching DFI for port-based? especially with pcv being routed back into the intake
It turns out that direct injection is a major contributor to early timing chain failures. Apparently it puts fine carbon grit into the oil. Manufacturers are going to longer and longer oil change intervals. If you have one of these you should change the oil at 5,000 no matter what. I think some people feel that going by the computer and running for 9,000 (without checking the oil) is considered good maintenance. It's not.
I find your videos to be both entertaining and educational. I have learned much about certain vehicles that I will never own and never work on. This is one of them.
This hits home so hard. You have the patience of a saint Wes, more power to you.
This is such a pervasive problem, it really should be a recall.
Happened to me twice on one vehicle, once on another, and I now own imports...
it removes quite easily LOL
@@johns.4152 My friend had a 2010 Silverado that this happened to. We decided at the time to do the AFM delete - ordered a new cam and 16 new standard lifters, and sent the PCM off to have the AFM/DOD flashed out of it. Ran great when all was said and done.
Same issue across multiple generations and platforms of LS engines. It's really a terrible design.
@@johns.4152 Until the crudyota dealer says $220 JUST TO SCAN your Camry because it's sputtering and losing power and the exhaust stinks. California car, 50 State emissions. $220 doesn't fix it, and possibly won't find the issues. I did the Plugs wires one 0² sensor both pairs of coils. MAP Sensor 4 cylinder possibly the 2.2. I had it scanned by a shop in Madison WI that specializes in drivability issues, they couldn't find it. Oh well I got hit hard before I had to put any more money 💰 into it. no I'll keep my 2004 CHEVROLET TrailBlazer 199,344 miles. No oil burning no serious issues
I'd rather reuse than Dorman, even if they say don't reuse... especially something used 27min. Thanks for bringing us along... great learning video.
you always manage to make me so happy that I retired from that trade before some of this junk was built, not that they didn't build enough junk in my time, but it seems like they left a little more access in the past
The whole video all I could think was that looks like 62.587lbs of shit crammed in a 5lb bag looking inside that engine compartment.
All access to anything is gone. Manufacturers only think about assembly line installation. The trucks nowadays seem so big, but have no room in engine area. To much plastic and flair instead of function and serviceability!
I feel the struggel.. I dont know what it is but i find these kind of films calming.. must be something wierd about watching other struggle.. keep up the good work Wes. Greetings from Norway
Your love for GM runs so deep.
The Bmw gdi engines I've worked on at main dealer, we had the special puller like you described to remove Injectors. It specified a max torque to turn the threaded puller if that number is exceeded to extract the injector to then scrap that injector and replace with a new one, And the torque was low like 10nm! Feel your pain, well done for persevering 👏P.s proper Teflon gap and shrink tools are 👌
Well done Wes. Tough job, as is anything in modern automotive work.
A true quality mechanic at work... Not so many of you around these days Wes!
Just went through this on my 2016 silverado.
A good fellow told me. Dont replace just one injector. Because others will start to go. Glad I listened. Did all 8. Although it cost me 3200 cdn.
Great work sir
I'm in the middle of the same repair. It's a ton of work. I prefer the old LS design. So much easier. Thanks for the comprehensive video. Really helped me to do it at home.
Ah man, I feel this.
Used to have a saying in my old shop, "if a job's worth doing, it's worth doing 3 times to get it right." 🤣
Is always good to see you work! The editing is really good too 👍
Having just criticised you for calling a split pin a cotter pin, I feel I ought to say that it is obvious to a fellow engineer that you have great diagnostic skill, and ultimate patience an perseverance. I feel for you as you seem to get basket cases which would never be allowed on UK roads. Apart from that you are lucky to be supported by your lovely Wife and devoted Dog Max You are a true honest gentleman and obviously happy in your family environment. Well done you keep it up. We brits love your channel
My 2015 is doing the same thing right now with the misfire. I have all 8 injectors on order. Thankfully I don't have a stuck lifter like the truck you worked on. I just went through all 8 coils, wires and Spark plugs to make sure they had spark and they do. But when I start driving it all of the sudden it falls on its face just like the truck you worked on. Awesome video. Thank you!
Hello wes,
I take my hat off to you. Your assumptions about where and, above all, how errors occur, followed by an explanation, put a smile on my face. I would have wished for a teacher like that during my apprenticeship as a car mechanic. Please share your experiences with us. No matter how long you've been in the business, you never stop learning.
Great job, definitely know how you felt having to tear into something multiple times. Anyway it was very educational and I’m sure this video will help someone in the future. Keep em comin brother.
What a Great Video, with real life problems. It really sucks when you try to do everything correctly and save the customer as much money as possible, but the Gremlins have another plan. Be interesting to see if they got tweaked or if there was injector damage. Seems like there would be some way to check them out.
I’m sure it took you some time to be able to make a Channel friendly commentary. The clips of the wife fighting with the toolbox were a great addition, I bet the box is heavy.
Thanks very much for taking us along on your stressful adventure.
Great video, Wes. Thanks for sharing it. I think the lesson I take away from this is to just do both heads and don't mess with the injectors. Once you're down that far it's not that much more time to remove that other head, aside from the 3 exhaust bolts that virtually always require a torch. The lifters on the other head are going to fail pretty soon, too, so might as well replace them at the same time.
The injectors are not terribly expensive. It's about $300 for the injectors vs around $200 for the head gasket, valve cover gasket, exhuast manifold gasket, and head bolts. But pulling the head would add another 5ish hours.
@@WatchWesWork I get that but for the few hours more work all the lifters are new. I'd be concerned that in a month a lifter will fail on the other bank. I haven't been asked to do one of these yet but I know at some point I will be. Videos like yours help a lot in how to sell the job.
Watching this video I felt bad for you Wes. You are one of the best technicians/mechanics I've seen. I am glad for you that you were able to fix it and get it out of the shop. Kee up the good work. Wishing you the best.
I liked that use of the hose and hose clamp for shrinking the teflon seals on the top of the fuel injectors.
I have an '09 with afm. I experienced disappearing oil, clogged screen by the oil pressure sensor,etc. I replaced screen and did valve cover update and got a Range AFM disabler and have had zero problems since. I now have 220,000 .miles on it with zero engine related issues.(trans is another story!) A $70 updated valve cover and a $120 Range AFM disabler has I believe, saved me. Drive it 80-100 miles/day for 3+ yrs since doing it.
I wonder if the engineers who design this stuff ever watch these videos…..and if they do, do they feel bad or just laugh maniacally.
@@skykingnikiski8817 they could care less. They're already off designing the next worst thing to ever be tried.
@@skykingnikiski8817 , designed specifically for dealer to make more money in service and part when things are more complicated. 99% of people would not attempt this in their garage
@@repairvehicle or if they did they'd go straight to the delete kit, finishing the job the afm's doing for them
Dude, I feel for you. I don't know how you do it. Working on cars in the old days was so much easier.
This is one of those situations where as a single guy shop you have to weigh whether or not to charge the customer for everything or chalk some of it up to the learning curve.
When you’re a sole proprietor your reputation is everything. But you also must make a living. Finding that balance is key to your long term survival.
Best to you Wes!! I’ve been right there with you even though in a completely different profession. Thanks as always!! All‘s well that ends well!!
OMG! What a freaking nightmare! That is the reason I got out of the Auto Repair trade 30 years ago! I still repair my own vehicles with in reason. Anyting major repairs go to a guy like Wes. This is what I like about your Channel, it's real life in the automotive repair business. Most of the time things go smooth, but then a vehicle comes along that you just want to light on fire!😂
GM was so concerned about the fuel lines they forgot to mention the injectors were so prone to failure if you swore taking them out , lesson learned . Your patience is amazing Wes , I would have lost it . Another one under the belt .