Perspectives

Perspectives

Over the last two weeks, I’ve had the pleasure of attending some tool and equipment shows – and seeing a lot of cool tools, such as a pneumatic oxygen sensor remover, a magnetic socket holder and all kinds of flashlights and work lights. It seems that all the equipment is well-built, more powerful and user friendly, and the tools are stronger, but lighter. There are many more battery-powered tools out there too, as technological advances have improved battery life while reducing the size of the battery.

These tool shows were very well attended because they allow the manufacturers to show off their new stuff for the warehouse distributors and wagon jobbers. And soon you’ll be seeing presentations on how the latest gadgets can save you time, bloody knuckles and lots of frustration. The one thing you won’t save is money. It’s not that because prices are going up; it’s because you won’t be able to resist all the new innovations. I’m sure you’ve spent a lot of money through the years on tools you want versus tools you really need.

One way to ease the pain for technicians who have to make a substantial investment in tools is to adopt a tool reimbursement program. These programs pay the technician for tool and equipment expenses separately from wages. When a few dollars of a tech’s hourly pay is allocated for tools, they don’t have to pay tax on this portion of their income. At the same time, the employer/shop owner doesn’t have to pay FICA/Medicare on this portion of the technician’s pay either. So both the parties win with such a program – more take-home pay for the tech and lower payroll expenses for the shop owner. These plans need to be established and paid via a third-party administrator. Since you are dealing with the Internal Revenue Code, check with your accountant or financial planner for more information.

A plan that can save employees money is sure to increase technician loyalty at your shop. If you’re using a tool reimbursement plan at your shop, I’d like to hear how it’s working and what your technicians think of it. In the mean time, the newest equipment and tools are on their way.

You May Also Like

UniClutch Launches Clutch System in the United States

From Australian manufacturer Clutch Industries, UniClutch is a clutch system that delivers uncompromised performance.

UniClutch and UniClutch Sport will be the first iterations of this system to launch in the U.S. UniClutch's dual core technology significantly boosts torque capacity without compromising drivability. Its one-of-a-kind, patented and adaptable design fits a multitude of vehicles, simplifies inventory management, expedites clutch replacement time, and lessens common installation problems. Compared to UniClutch, UniClutch Sport offers a further 15% more torque capacity and a sport-tuned pedal feel for more serious enthusiasts. These features create a clutch system with mass appeal for consumers and aftermarket businesses alike, as the industry grapples with a continuously challenging supply chain and the need to find labor efficiencies.

Automotive Hall of Fame Announces Class of 2024 Inductees

Six honorees whose efforts helped shape the automotive and mobility marketplace will be recognized.

Castrol Turns 125, Debuts New Market Strategy

As part of the new strategy, Castrol will explore opportunities in battery thermal management, digital and service solutions and data center immersion cooling.

Advance Auto Parts Announces ‘National Battery Day’ Promo

DieHard battery giveaways and complimentary battery testing will be part of nationwide festivities held on Feb. 18.

FCS Introduces 18 New Numbers in February

The new release includes 4 shock absorbers and 14 suspension struts.

Other Posts

Tenneco Introduces Add-On Valve Technology 

The company says the RideRefine SDD valve brings new levels of versatility, tunability and comfort to passive damper performance.

AP Emissions Releases New Part Numbers for February

AP Emissions Technologies has released 12 new SKUs that cover six million VIO in the month of February.

Lumileds Debuts New Philips Automotive Lighting Website

The site features an entirely new design that brings together the full breadth of the Philips portfolio of automotive lighting and accessories in North America.

Standard Motor Products Expands Emission Control Program

SMP’s program features more than 3,500 parts, including EVAP, EGR and positive crankcase ventilation products.