New Tools: What’s Old is New Again
There is an old saying that there is nothing new under the sun. A recent trend in the tool industry might lead you to think there is some truth to that statement. It seems that although a new tool gets introduced every few minutes — with suppliers bringing more and more new items to market
Safe Shop: Employee Uniforms Increase Consumer Confidence
First impressions matter in every industry, and the automotive service aftermarket has its own set of challenges and needs. Extreme temperatures; compact spaces under hoods, under cars; and oily, heavy equipment and dirty parts can quickly and easily make for a grimy technician and messy shop appearance. Your employees define who you are and what
Hyundai Tech Tip: No Movement in Drive or Reverse
If you’re servicing a Hyundai with no movement in drive or reverse gear, use the following procedure to correct the problem.
Direct from Rancho to Your Garage: The 2007 Rancho Master Catalog
Rancho, a frequent "first-to-market" off-road suspension innovator, has captured its latest exclusive technologies and product offering inside a new, enhanced 2007 Rancho Master Catalog. It features more than 25 product highlight and technical pages.
Tire Tech Tip: Selling Nitrogen can Pump up Profits
For the past five or so years, suppliers of nitrogen-inflation equipment have made serious claims. Compared to moisture- and dirt-laden compressed air, nitrogen – a dry, inert gas – runs cooler, does not permeate through rubber as quickly and does not cause rust to develop on steel cords, expensive wheels or tire pressure monitoring sensors. The result is better fuel economy, more consistent inflation pressure, longer tire life and increased safety, advocates say.
Tech Tip: Understanding Vehicle Electrical Systems Begins and Ends with the Alternator
The alternator’s job has definitely become more complex during the past decade. Years ago, the typical import vehicle could live very happily with 40 amps of electrical current, which was enough to power the ignition, fuel and lighting systems. Today, that threshold is rapidly advancing toward 100 amps of current.
Tech Tip: With Alignments Today, ‘To Spec’ Doesn’t Cut it Anymore
A proper alignment job is not necessarily an easy task, but if you have the right equipment and well-trained technicians who know the operational guidelines, it can be a walk in the park. The plan is to give your customers the longest tire life possible. But when it comes to delivering a customer-oriented alignment, are you really earning your money?
Chrysler Tech Tip: Diagnosing Delayed Transaxle Engagement at Start-Up
Some Chyrsler owners may complain of intermittent delayed transmission engagement at vehicle start-up in excess of three seconds. The transaxle may be cold or hot. Check the transaxle fluid level while the vehicle is on a level surface and the transaxle is at normal operating temperature using the following procedure.
The 10 Commandments for Selling Shocks and Struts
The first step in selling ride control is the inspection process. A visual inspection of the shocks and struts can tell you a lot about the state of the ride control units. This is a chance to make sure the vehicle is road-worthy before you put your own life at risk. Also, always make sure that there is enough gas in the tank.
Management: Vehicle TLC Pays Dividends
More than ever, consumers consider their vehicles to be an extension of their personality, lifestyle and preferences. Beyond the technological advancements, special features, quality enhancements and gizmos, consumers are also attracted to a vehicle by its styling, color scheme, and interior detailing, adding momentum to a love affair that grows stronger each day.