Tech Tip: Pointers for Inspecting Brake Systems
Brake linings are sacrificial components designed to convert kinetic energy into heat energy by rubbing against a rotating brake rotor or drum. This rubbing action or friction wears away a miniscule portion of the brake lining and rotor or drum each time the brake pedal is applied.
Tech Tip: Let Nitrogen Make You Money
If you’re shopping for a nitrogen generator, here are a few things to consider. Does the unit you’re buying feature an "auto down" that results in less wear and tear on the compressor, not to mention less energy use? Also look for such features as a complete pre-filtration package that offers reliability and long operating life. Does the generator have a receiver tank included? Consider if you would fare better with a floor- or wall-mounted unit.
Rain, Rain Go Away: Advance Auto Parts Offers Tips for Travel During Rain
Nobody wants to leave their couch on a rainy day, but a long list of things to do, or children to pick up from school, or a commute to and from work will often leave you with no choice but to fire up your vehicle and hope for the best during a rainy day. "You can best prepare for rainy weather by replacing your windshield wipers every season and by using a rain treatment on your windshield after every time you wash your vehicle. Additionally, be sure to check tread depth and tire pressures before driving in the rain," says Bryan Gregory, Advance Auto Parts director of consumer education.
Tech Tip: Selling Performance Modifications
The sport compact car market is hotter than ever. The market has moved beyond the simple bolt-ons such as wheels, tires, brake rotors and spoilers. It’s not unusual today to see sport compact engines producing upward of 400 horsepower on the street. With so much power under the hood, the challenge is getting the horsepower to the tires and maintaining reasonable traction and handling.
Honda Tech Tip: 2000 Odyssey Drifts to the Right
The owner of a 2000 Honda Odyssey may complain that the vehicle drifts to the right at highway speeds. The probable cause of this condition is uneven front caster or camber settings. To correct this problem, shift the front subframe.
Tech Tip: Sorting Out Tire Pressure Monitoring System Myths
Myths are fine if you’re teaching mythology. However, they are a pain for the automotive aftermarket, especially when dealing with new components like tire pressure monitoring systems (TPMS). With every new technology, there are inherent learning, maintenance and problem-solving issues. Also, there are accompanying apprehensions and fears. Some concerns are valid; others would fall into the category of myths.
Brake Pad Wear
Brake pads are one of the few remaining accepted wear items in a modern vehicle. As a result, it represents a significant revenue opportunity for the service community. Drivers would surely love to have brake pads last for life. Service shop owners may have a different opinion. I’m sure that shop owners must deal daily
Selling Services: Shock & Strut Replacement
The primary purpose of a shock absorber (or strut) is to control suspension movement. This is done by a piston moving fluid through a series of valves within the shock or strut housing. The valves control the damping rate of the shock throughout the travel of the piston. The damping characteristics are engineered to complement
Tech Update: The 10 Commandments for Selling Shocks & Struts
“143” alt=”” align=”right” /> Look for signs that the units might be leaking oil, such as the accumulation of road grime or the presence of oil inside the boots and dust shields. Also keep an eye out for “witness marks” that indicate the suspension might have bottomed out recently. Make sure all bushings and hardware
Toyota’s 50 Years in the Limelight
Hollywood, CA — What began as a barely viewed Halloween “premier” at a little independent dealership in Tinseltown has really grown into a “blockbuster” for the aftermarket. On Oct. 31, 1957, Toyota Motor Sales U.S.A, opened its American headquarters in a former Nash Rambler dealership in Hollywood. Nine months later and going on sale in