L1 Advanced Engine Performance: ASE L1 diagnostics, OBD-II strategy, and root-cause engine performance
About this ebook
L1 Advanced Engine Performance is a diagnostic textbook and shop companion for automotive professionals who already know the basics and need a systematic path through advanced engine performance. It starts with the duties, ethics, and test strategy expected of a master technician, then builds a mechanical foundation in four-stroke combustion, sealing, volumetric efficiency, and vacuum testing.
From there the book moves into electronic control architecture: sensors, actuators, modules, and networks. OBD II is treated as a working language, covering monitor enable criteria, freeze-frame data, PIDs, and scan-tool analysis that actually isolate faults. Ignition, air induction, and fuel delivery are unpacked with current-ramp testing and wideband air-fuel evaluation. Emissions systems—PCV, EGR, EVAP, secondary air, and catalysts—are covered as complete diagnostic stories, not isolated parts lists.
Inspection and maintenance failures, five-gas analysis, and intermittent electronic faults close the loop with case studies and lab exercises that punish parts-cannon diagnosis. If you want L1-level competence on the bay floor, this is the map.
About the author
I write in two distinct fields: comprehensive Automotive Technology textbooks and faith-centered books drawn from my ministry messages, revivals, and Bible studies.
Automotive & Educational Background
With over 35 years of hands-on automotive shop experience and a passion for teaching, I strive to mold and inspire the next generation of technicians. My journey began at Fresno City College, where an intro automotive class sparked a lifelong passion. After building a successful career—making top technician status at a General Motors dealership—I transitioned into education as an instructor at Las Positas College.
Professional Credentials & Certifications
Education:
B.A. in Organizational Management (Ashford University)
A.S. in Automotive Technology (Fresno City College)
Master & Advanced ASE Certifications:
Master Technician (A1–A9), Advanced Engine Performance (L1), Electronic Diesel (L2), Alternative Fuels & Hybrid (L3), General Service (G1), Compressed Natural Gas (F1), Heavy Duty Truck (T1, T2, T3, T6), Truck Equipment (E1), Mechanical/Electrical Body (B5), Exhaust Specialist (X1), Parts Specialist (P1), and Service Consultant (C1).
Industry Honors:
General Motors World Class Technician (#2 in California, #7 Worldwide), Isuzu Master Elite Technician, NACAT, B'laster, and Tomorrow’s Tech* Instructor of the Month (March 2026).
Specialized Training & Certifications:
California Smog Inspector, Repair Technician, & Instructor, HDIM Referee, Certified Hybrid, Alternative Fuel, & EV Trainer, Tesla Emergency Response, Mike Rowe Works Ethics Certification, HVAC 609, I-Car & ACDelco Certified Instructor, NC3 Certified (Zeus, Oscilloscopes, Verus Edge, Shop Key, Precision Measurement, Torque, TPMS, Procut, B2000P, T7800, Pro X, Multimeters).
Industry Memberships:
ASE, CAT, NACAT, SAE, SEMA, and PRI.
Advice for Aspiring Technicians:
"Buckle down, go to class, apply yourself, listen, and learn. Just because you think you can work on cars does not mean you can. I learn every day. If you cannot accept that there is much to learn, one day you will wake up and be disappointed at the life that you have made for yourself."
Ministry & Community Service
Outside the classroom and shop, I am known as "Uncle B." I proudly serve at Courts of Praise Church in Manteca, California, where I hold several key roles:
* Deacon & Co-President, Board of Directors
* Men’s Ministry President
* Head of Safety & Security
* Maintenance, Operations, & Facilities
Serving the Lord is a joy—as Matthew 11:30 reminds us, *"His yoke is easy and His burden is light."
Personal Life
When I’m not teaching or serving at church, I love spending quality time with my wife and three adopted children. I am an avid firearms collector and enjoy range days practicing marksmanship. Friday nights are reserved for date night, and Sunday mornings are for church!
