In this issue:

One of the Star Points: Ignition

To run properly, any gasoline-burning engine requires three elements to work together in perfect harmony: compression, fuel, and, our subject here, spark. Maintaining this harmony insures the legendary power and performance of Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Sealing the Deal

Evaporative emissions have been tested and monitored by the ME since the beginning of OBD II regs in 1996. This system has been one of the more difficult air pollution-reduction systems to diagnose and verify. SDS software has made the job easier.

As Good As New

Chemical bonding is increasingly the preferred joining technology.

Floating on Air

Although Mercedes-Benz offers a hydraulic suspension system (Active Body Control, or ABC), there’s an alternative. AIRmatic suspension doesn’t need hydraulic fluid, or a belt-driven high-pressure pump to maintain a level stance. Vehicles so equipped float on a cushion of air, so how do we keep them afloat?