Mitch Schneider: Then Why’d You Do It?
I just returned from a business meeting that took me out of the shop for three days. Not a big trip, but certainly long enough to realize just how good the people you depend on are when you’re gone or how they convince you never to leave again!
Management: 50 Tips to Improve Your Shop in 2008
Andrew Markel, editor of BRAKE & FRONT END magazine, offers 50 pointers that shop managers and technicians can use to improve their service shop in 2008.
Tech Tip: Avoid Over-Filling Oil in Ford Engines
Incorrect oil levels are being found in many 2002-2003 Ford, Lincoln and Mercury vehicles. In most cases, the level is being misinterpreted because the oil level on the dipstick is not touching the top hash mark at the upper limit (or MAX mark), or it is partway down the crosshatch area.
New Akebono Program Makes Good Business Sense
Akebono has launched a new program for installers, the "Akebono Brake Experts Alliance," to drive Akebono brake business to shops and ensure quality repairs in the process. By aligning with Akebono brakes, member shops benefit from advanced brake technology and high-quality brake parts that fit right the first time.
Tech Tip: Thumping Along in an Acura MDX
Bill secured his son James, and his dog Skippy, into their 2001 Acura MDX for a weekend fishing trip. As they drew nearer to "Camp Chasing Squirrel" on an old fire road, Bill noticed a "thump" noise from his MDX. After returning with lots of great stories and lots of wet paw prints, he called me about the thumping.
Viewpoint: 50 Tips to Improve your Shop in 2008
Increase the labor rate. Chances are your customers will not notice. Send fewer cars to the dealership. Buy better uniforms. Secretly shop the competition. Attend more training. Take down all the old, dirty or out-of-date “push/pull” or “we install” stickers off your front door. Use your shop management system more effectively. Explore all menus and
Staying On Track
You’ve seen the “Advance Trac” badges on the backs of Explorers and Expeditions, but what is it? Have you ever been asked by your Ford dealer parts department if a vehicle you are working on has “IVD”? What’s IVD? Not all vehicles that are equipped with Advance Trac carry the Advance Trac insignia. Advance Trac
News Update: Automotive Distribution Network Announces ‘Repair America’ Sweepstakes Winners
Parts Plus has announced the major prize winners of the “Repair America” sweepstakes promotion for professional service dealers. Throughout June and July, when service dealers were given the opportunity to win prizes in this special promotion, more than 62,000 entries were returned to headquarters, with an additional 7,500 entered online through www.partsplus.com. The winner of
Carley’s Corner: New Stuff from the AAPEX & SEMA Shows
Having just wrapped up a week in Las Vegas at the AAPEX (Automotive Aftermarket Parts Expo) and SEMA (Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association) shows, I have some interesting news to report. A company called Green Earth Technologies introduced a new high-quality synthetic motor oil made from dead cows. The oil is made from animal fat (beef
Tool Storage: Buying a Toolbox is Like Buying a House — For Your Tools
The journey of a thousand miles starts with just one step. Deciding what new tool storage system you want can feel like that kind of journey. As the single largest purchase you are ever likely to make in your career as a technician, it is an important one! In fact, other than your home and