News: Babcox Memorial Scholarship Applications Now Being Accepted
Bedford, TX — The Automotive Management Institute (AMI) is calling for applications for the 2004 Tom B. Babcox Memorial Scholarship. AMI’s resource development effort, EXCEL, in conjunction with Babcox Publications, established the $1,000 scholarship, which is awarded annually to an Automotive Service Association (ASA) Mechanical Division member who strives to be, or is presently, working
Your Business is a ‘People’ Business
As providers of high-quality, efficient repairs on import nameplates, you are also discerning buyers of premium parts, tools and equipment, purveyors of optimal customer service and smart businesspeople, so the way you run your business and your impressions of the marketplace truly make an impact. A recent readership study of ImportCar readers asked, “Do you
Alternators Are the Heart of Import Electrical Systems
In current SAE J1930 terminology, the “alternator” is now being referred to as a “generator.” Of course, this isn’t news for many import technicians because many imports have always been equipped with “generators” for several years. By either name, the alternator’s job has definitely become more complex during the past decade. Years ago, the typical
Volkswagen Brake, Suspension and Exhaust Repairs
The original Volkswagen Beetle changed a number of things for the maintenance technician. The muffler was part of the engine, the suspension consisted of front and rear torsion bars, and the brakes, though actually large for a car of the Bug’s weight, needed adjustment on a regular basis to make them safe. Things have changed
Servicing Volvo Climate Control Systems
Volvos built for the U.S. are equipped with a climate control system that comes standard in most models. The climate control system contains a function selector dial, driver and passenger temperature dials, a recirculated air switch, A/C on and off switch and a fan speed (blower motor) control switch (See photo 1). The heater-A/C blower
News
Steve Louden Named CARS 2004 Chairman Bedford, TX – The Automotive Service Association (ASA) has announced that Steve Louden, AAM, will serve as chairman of the 2004 Congress of Automotive Repair and Service (CARS). Louden is the owner of Louden Motorcar Services in Dallas, and a longtime member of ASA. Held annually in Las Vegas
The Future of Cool
Ed Sunkin, Editor, also contributed to this report Nobody knows exactly how refrigeration systems will change in the future, but it appears likely that R-134a’s days are numbered. The Europeans are seriously considering phasing it out starting in 2009. If that happens, the North American OEMs may follow suit. Though R-134a poses no danger to
Engine Series: Proper Maintenance Can Extend an Odyssey
We all know that some vehicle owners don’t adhere to preventative maintenance schedules for their vehicles. So when a customer’s vehicle is in for a major problem or service, take advantage of in-depth system inspections. It may be one of the few times that you get to check the vehicle for severely worn parts. Although
Heater Service: A Year-Round Opportunity
Nothing is more annoying than a heater that blows cold air – except maybe one that leaks. So if you’re dealing with a heater problem, be it a leaker or one that doesn’t seem to put out much warmth, keep reading because this article can help you solve your heater blues. Before we get into
Component Connection: Wiper Motors
If there is one system that vehicle owners believe is inhabited by Gremlins, it’s the windshield wipers. Unfortunately, car owners don’t normally realize there is a problem with the wiper system until they need them most – when it’s raining. No matter what type of car you service, when it comes to wiper-related problems, the
Dusting Off Fuel System Fossils:
For many technicians these days, the sight of a real working carburetor may be as alien as the rover roaming the dusty Martian surface. But consider the opportunities that these die-cast, zinc alloy, fossil fuel-metering Martians present to us technicians. Opportunities abound, to repair emissions failures by re-calibrating the main circuits and diagnosing high carbon
April Showers Bring May Profits
As you well know, your customers are not always educated on their vehicles. Often, they will procrastinate on addressing even the smallest of repairs or regularly scheduled maintenance items, such as wiper blades. And since April is Car Care Awareness Month, this may be a good time to address wiper blades as they relate to