Brandon Steckler, an American technical trainer, presented a very informative course in the use of Pressure Waveform Analysis, to help diagnose mechanical and other running problems in diesel and petrol engines.

The sold out course, was hosted by J&S Automotive at their Munster Depot in Little Island, Cork. Mechanics from across the country got an excellent insight into how a quick and simple check of a pressure waveform, could accurately diagnose mechanical problems in the engine.

Brandon explained the many ways that a pressure transducer can be used with an oscilloscope, to diagnose what is mechanically going on inside the engine. A pressure transducer is a small device that converts pressure or vacuum measurements into a voltage that can be captured and displayed on a scope. The captured pressure waveform, from the intake manifold/tailpipe and in-cylinder can be examined and provides information, to make diagnostic-decisions about mechanical issues inside the engine.

After going over the theory and selection of equipment that can be used for this technique, Brandon presented numerous case studies. The case studies illustrated the manner and situations in which this technique could be helpful.

Some examples of mechanical faults that could be detected from a pressure waveform included, intake and exhaust restrictions, damaged intake/exhaust valves, delayed valve timing, timing belt/camshaft sim-configuration, a leaking head gaskets and many other mechanical problems.

The idea that a quick and simple check of a pressure waveform could accurately diagnose mechanical problems without an engine tear down, was well received by the attendees. It allows the garage to narrow in on a successful repair strategy in the minimum amount of time, or to show to the customer exactly what is wrong, without a lengthy inspection or tear down.