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MEMA’s Brake Manufacturers Council (BMC) will host its 2024 Summer Meeting at Brake Weekend in Naples, Florida, on May 31, 2024.
The event, sponsored by Link Engineering, promises engaging discussions on industry trends, regulatory updates related to brake materials and emissions, and the future of maintaining and repairing braking systems, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers said.
Agenda highlights include:
- Regulatory Updates: Dive into discussions on brake materials and emissions, including the BMC Brake Wear Emissions sub-committee’s CARB discussions and updates on the Euro 7 standards.
- Innovations in Braking: Explore insights on braking system maintenance and repair for electric and hybrid electric vehicles.
- Supply Chain Strategies: A session dedicated to understanding and mitigating global supply chain risks.
The meeting is open exclusively to MEMA BMC member companies, allowing multiple employees from a member company to participate. It’s a unique opportunity to learn from and network with leaders in the braking industry, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers said.
Eligibility to join the BMC is extended to established North American firms of good repute and sound financial condition, as well as members of MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers and/or MEMA Original Equipment Suppliers.
For more information about the meeting, joining the BMC or to apply, visit mema.org/bmc, or contact Susan Pase at [email protected].
The post MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers’ BMC to Host Summer Meeting appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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The Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation (AACF), a 501c3 supporting people in the automotive aftermarket industry and their families during the hardest moments of their lives, announced the first-ever AACF Humanitarian Award, generously sponsored by NEXUS North America. This prestigious award aims to “recognize and honor outstanding individuals, companies, associations or groups within the automotive aftermarket industry who have demonstrated exceptional dedication to improving the lives of others through humanitarian efforts,” according to AACF.
The AACF Humanitarian Award seeks to highlight those who embody compassion, selflessness and a profound sense of social responsibility. Nominees should have significantly contributed to positive change within their communities, whether locally, nationally, or globally.
Nominations for the AACF Humanitarian Award will open mid-June, providing an opportunity for industry members to nominate deserving candidates who have made an impact. The deadline for nominations is February 1, 2025.
“We are thrilled to introduce the AACF Humanitarian Award in partnership with NEXUS North America,” said Jon Owens, national sales manager for Epicor Software and president of the board of AACF. “This award represents a meaningful way to celebrate those in our industry who go above and beyond to make a difference in the lives of others. We encourage everyone to nominate individuals or organizations who exemplify the spirit of humanitarianism.”
The selection process for the AACF Humanitarian Award will be rigorous, AACF said, with nominees evaluated based on their demonstrated impact and commitment to humanitarian causes. The award recipient will be announced at a special ceremony during Connect 2025, bringing well-deserved recognition to their exceptional contributions.
“On behalf of NEXUS North America and NEXUS Automotive International, I want to share our excitement to have this opportunity to support the AACF organization for this new, outstanding Humanitarian Award. We are honored to play a role in this initiative,” said Robert Roos, president Pronto Network & NEXUS North America.
To submit a nomination or learn more about the AACF Humanitarian Award criteria, visit https://www.aftermarketcharity.org/humanitarianhero starting mid-June 2024.
The post AACF Announces Inaugural AACF Humanitarian Award appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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The inaugural High Performance Expo (HPX), the business and consumer show of the North Carolina Motorsports Association (NCMA), will be held from June 3-5, 2025, at the Charlotte Convention Center, followed by area-wide enthusiast activities. The event will bring together all segments of the racing and performance community for the first time in the heart of the auto racing industry.
This first-of-its-kind event is focused on the automotive aftermarket and is meant for professional race teams, manufacturers of new cars and high-performance parts, retail performance shops, industry experts and enthusiasts. HPX 2025 is the gateway to the next level in the world of high-octane racing and automotive performance.
“The High Performance Expo will be a car-centric playground showcasing the best of auto racing and the automotive aftermarket like no other,” said Greg Walter, NCMA chairman of the Board, and executive vice president and general manager of the Charlotte Motor Speedway. “There is no better place to hold this annual event than Charlotte, North Carolina, home of auto racing and a community rich in history and passion for modifying and racing the automobile.”
“The North Carolina racing industry has long wanted to design an experience like HPX to more easily connect our industry and our passionate fans,” said Scott Lampe, vice chairman of NCMA and CFO of Hendrick Motorsports. “HPX 2025 will celebrate this great industry through the lens of our unique community, bringing a level of authenticity featuring VIPs, drivers, celebrities and experts, which can only be done in one place – Charlotte.”
Additional details including speakers, sponsors, seminars, displays and enthusiast activities will be released in the coming months.
The post High Performance Expo to Debut in Charlotte appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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Advance Auto Parts and Worldpac, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Advance, concluded its 2024 Supplier & Training Expo (STX) with record-breaking participation from repair shop owners, auto technicians, supplier partners and other attendees.
Nearly 3,400 registrants attended STX, which was hosted in Nashville, April 24-28, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center. Attendees participated in three days of automotive training totaling 24 hours of class time, a supplier expo, keynote speakers and networking, before a celebratory event at the Country Music Hall of Fame and Walk of Fame Park in downtown Nashville, featuring a concert by multiple-time award-winning country music group, Little Big Town.
Snapshot of STX 2024:
- 2,390 repair shop owners, service writers, technicians and students attended training courses, including 138 students from Lincoln Tech in Nashville and multiple schools from the Metro Nashville Public School system (attendance sponsored by Worldpac);
- 392 training classes (from beginner to master-tech level) performed on topics such as EV high-voltage and hybrid systems, ADAS technologies and diagnostics, plus business and financial management for repair shops;
- 80 business management classes52 hands-on classes with full vehicles or portions of vehicles in class
- 203 classes focused on emerging technologies
- Sessions were led by nearly 180 instructors from Worldpac Training Institute, Carquest Technical Institute, global supplier partners and OEs, with instructors hailing from the United States, Canada, England, Germany and Denmark; and
- More than 160 global supplier partners participated in the expo, including premier-level supporters: Denso, Bosch, AC Delco, AP Exhaust Products, LIQUI MOLY and Motorcraft
“It’s an 18-month effort to make STX happen, so first, a big thank you to everyone at Advance, Worldpac and our incredible supplier partners who worked tirelessly to make it happen,” said Bob Cushing, Advance’s executive vice president, professional and president of Worldpac. “This is a critical event for our industry – our seventh STX – as we bring together shop owners and their team members from across North America for quality training. Shop owners who invest in the future of their teams to attend STX are ahead of their peers. We’re all energized after this week thanks to the high energy our customers and suppliers bring to each STX event and we’re already looking forward to STX 2026.”
The post Advance Auto Parts, Worldpac Wrap Up STX 2024 appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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The HDA Truck Pride community recently united in Grapevine, TX, for its Annual Meeting to celebrate a successful year, marked by substantial member expansion and engagement with the addition of over 130 new locations across North America. It also served as a platform for collaboration and fostering positive change for the rest of the year ahead, according to HDA Truck Pride.
The week commenced with a charitable “Toss Up For Love and Hope” Cornhole Tournament to raise funds for Kids Matter International, an organization committed to empowering children in the Grapevine area by providing essential items like clothing, shoes, books, and backpacks, along with educational initiatives, fostering hope for a brighter tomorrow.
Tina Hubbard, president & CEO of HDA Truck Pride, set the tone for the meeting with an inspiring anecdote, “The Story of the Baby Elephant and the Rope.” The narrative illustrates how past experiences or perceived limitations can sometimes hinder progress, emphasizing the importance of breaking free from self-imposed constraints to achieve greater success, Hubbard emphasized.
“Together, we can ‘Be The Change’ needed to help each other break the ropes that are holding us back. And that is why HDA Truck Pride is committed to transforming the commercial vehicle aftermarket into a community that inspires people and businesses to realize their full potential,” Hubbard said.
HDA Truck Pride said it “remains at the forefront, launching new resources and programs that not only bolster the network’s competitiveness and expansion within the market but also enhance accessibility and prominence among national fleets. Additionally, this plays a pivotal role in the recruitment and retention of talent across all facets of the business.”
As the week progressed, enthusiasm for the “Be The Change” mantra prompted action and collaboration between members and suppliers throughout engagement sessions that “delved into critical issues vital to our industry fostering valuable exchange on challenges such as supply chain disruptions, regulatory shifts, the evolving dynamics of talent acquisition and retention, the expansion of online sales channels and effective strategies for digital commerce,” HDA Truck Pride said.
“With the generous backing of HDA Truck Pride supplier partners, notably platinum supporters – Grote, Bendix, and DriV – alongside the unwavering commitment of the entire HDA Truck Pride member network and industry attendees,” HDA Truck Pride said they rallied together for several philanthropic opportunities over the course of the week. As a result, the HDA Truck Pride community raised $35,000 in support of Kids Matter International, protecting future generations to come.
“2023 was a pivotal year for our community, full of new engagement opportunities and growth,” said Hubbard, “As we gaze ahead at the evolving landscape of the trucking industry and its challenges, the HDA Truck Pride network stands poised, ready to ‘Be The Change.’ What barriers will we break next?!”
The post HDA Truck Pride Recaps 2024 Annual Meeting appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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Schaeffler was recently recognized as a top global supplier of 2023 by General Motors during the automaker’s annual Supplier of the Year event in Miami, Florida. This is the fourth time Schaeffler has been honored with this award. Emphasizing shared values between GM and global suppliers, the rigorous selection process distinguishes those who align closely with GM’s principles. These values, rooted in performance, innovation, cultural alignment, and commitment to GM’s ambitious goals, serve as the foundation of the selection criteria.
“Receiving this prestigious award from General Motors is a testament to our relentless dedication to delivering outstanding quality and performance,” said Klaus Rosenfeld, CEO of Schaeffler AG. “We are honored to be recognized as a top global supplier and look forward to further advancing our partnership with GM in the pursuit of automotive excellence.”
Photo from left: Pratik Shah, Schaeffler Key Account Manager; Klaus Rosenfeld, Schaeffler CEO; Peter Layer, GM Purchasing, Executive Director of Chassis Propulsion Structures; Jon Jameson, Schaeffler Sr. Vice President Global Key Account Manager; Allen Pervo, Schaeffler Key Account Manager
Jon Jameson, Senior Vice President and GM Global Key Account Manager, Schaeffler added “At Schaeffler, we are immensely proud of our continued partnership with General Motors. This recognition underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence, driving us to exceed expectations in every aspect of our collaboration.”
The selection process is guided by the GPSC Priority Wheel, which prioritizes the customer in every aspect of supply chain decision-making. The framework’s core values of safety, inclusion and relationships serve as the foundation for other priorities such as sustainability, innovation, execution, resilience, and profitability.
“We’re honored to partner with these top suppliers who have made notable contributions to our transformation. Together, we’re pushing boundaries, pioneering new technologies and redefining what’s possible,” said Jeff Morrison, vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, General Motors. “Their innovation and support are critical to helping us deliver the world-class vehicles our customers have to come expect.”
The post Schaeffler Recognized as General Motors 2023 Top Global Supplier appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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B’laster Holdings announced the B’laster brand will be expanding into the refrigerants category with a lineup of products created to service and maintain both R-134a and R-1234yf automotive A/C systems.
The B’laster A/C line is now available in retailers across the U.S., the company said.
Features and benefits of the B’laster Refrigerants, according to B’laster Holdings, include:
- Smart Clips allow users to charge by temperature and provide an easier, more accurate way to determine when an AC recharge is complete. Charging an automotive AC system using temperature helps the user avoid overcharging the system.
- The Safe-Seal formulation permanently repairs micro leaks in both metal and rubber components found in an AC system. The stop leak technology is not reactive with oxygen or humidity because it is not a polymer-based stop leak so it won’t clog your AC system and is safe for use with RRR service machines. Safe-Seal circulates along with the refrigerant in the vehicle’s AC system, sealing micro leaks proactively before they become larger leaks over time.
- B’laster works with real mechanics to design its product offerings, so users get the perfect pairing of a professional-grade product with DIY package technology.
“B’laster has created some of the best automotive care products in the market since 1957,” said Marketing & Product Manager, Morgan Pollen. “With decades of experience to build on, we’re excited about the new technology we’ve developed and incorporated into the B’laster A/C product line. We pride ourselves on being innovative and offering products that both professionals and DIYers can use.”
The post B’laster Holdings Launches B’laster Refrigerants Line appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
- Smart Clips
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Genuine Parts Company (GPC), global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, announced it acquired Motor Parts & Equipment Corporation (MPEC), effective April 30, 2024, for its U.S. Automotive business.
MPEC, founded in 1938 and based in Rockford, Illinois, is the largest independent owner of NAPA Auto Parts stores in the U.S., operating 181 locations across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, according to GPC.
“We are pleased to announce the completion of this strategic acquisition, which aligns with our initiative to own more NAPA stores in priority markets,” said Will Stengel, president & CEO-elect of GPC. “We appreciate our long-standing partnership with MPEC’s Executive Chairman, Joseph Hansberry, and welcome our new MPEC teammates to GPC and NAPA. We are excited to work together to deliver solutions and value to our customers.”
The post GPC Acquires Largest US NAPA Independent Store Owner appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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Schaeffler Group USA has expanded its parts offerings for vehicles in the United States and Canada, adding over 70 new parts to the INA, LuK and Schaeffler Bearings portfolios in the first quarter of 2024. These additions expand application coverage to an additional 30 million vehicles in operation, the company said.
New LuK products include 9 different Clutch Kits, including traditional LuK RepSets and RepSet DMFs. The newly released Clutch Kits provide coverage to many common vehicle applications, including various Toyota, BMW and Volkswagen models, accounting for 4.3 million vehicles in operation, the company said.
Specifically, LuK 16-126, for Toyota Tacoma 2016-2021 applications, provides coverage for over 1.3 million vehicles in operation, the company said.
The Schaeffler Bearings product portfolio has expanded its offering to include 36 new part numbers, including Hub Assembly and Hub Assembly Kits, providing coverage for over 30 million vehicles in operation. With this expansion, Schaeffler said it provides a broader selection of single bearing components, as well as WheelSets for a more comprehensive repair solution.
The Schaeffler Bearings product expansion includes various EV applications for Tesla and Polestar, showing Schaeffler’s “unwavering commitment to innovation and enhanced engineering capabilities,” the company said. WH13371, for Polestar, Polestar 2 2021-2023, and various Volvo applications, provides coverage for over 400K+ vehicles in operation, according to Schaeffler.
The product line expansions of Schaeffler’s three brands in 2024 builds upon those released in 2023. The new products support many types of vehicles, including internal combustion, hybrid and fully electric vehicles under the LuK, INA and Schaeffler Bearings & Seals brands.
For information, visit Schaeffler Group USA.
The post Schaeffler Group USA Expands Product Portfolio appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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he Automotive Communications Council announced speakers for its upcoming conference, May 21-23, in Cleveland, OH.
While the complete agenda will be released soon, ACC provided this sneak peek at some of the thought leaders who will share their knowledge on the latest trends, strategies and innovations in automotive communications.
While the complete agenda will be released soon, ACC provided this sneak peek at some of the thought leaders who will share their knowledge on the latest trends, strategies and innovations in automotive communications.
· Matt Buckholtz, CEO, MotoRad
· Peter Bulmer, Founder and CEO, Turnkey Media
· Kathleen Long, Chief Revenue Officer, RepairPal
· Jacki Lutz, Content Director, Auto Care Association
· Steffanie Martin, Executive VP, MBE Group
· Lauren McCulough, Founder & CEO Tromml
· Chris Messer, VP/Group Publisher, Endeavor Business Media
· Stacy Miller, VP, Communication, Auto Care Association
· Catherine Wasner, Founder & Lead Consultant, The Next PageThemed “Backstage Pass,” this event “promises to take you behind the scenes of the automotive aftermarket industry, showcasing the latest innovations, strategies, and insights from leading experts in the field,” ACC said.
The post ACC Provides Sneak Peek into Conference Speakers appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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TechShop’s Tool Time Podcast Series highlights tool and equipment trends, combined with an educational focus on technology that brings solutions to shop owners and techs as they address the growing complexity of vehicle repair. In this episode, Nadine Battah and Eric Garbe sit down with CTA Tools’ Alex Borghard and Alberto Roldan to discuss the specialty tools their company offers.
It’s important to stay current, or even ahead of demand in the industry, and Alex Borghard tells the hosts about the challenges of doing so.
“As anyone who works in the automotive industry knows, it’s constantly changing,” explains Borghard, VP of marketing and business development for CTA Tools. “Whatever products we might sell today, there is a very strong chance that in 10-15 years from know, those products will no longer be in demand because the vehicles may no longer be on the road. That gives us the challenge to really stay on top of things and know what is in demand today and might be down the road.
The post Tool Time Podcast: CTA Tools appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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Registration for AAPEX 2024 is officially open. The event will take place November 5–7, at The Venetian Expo and Caesar’s Forum in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Recapping the 2023 AAPEX Show, 130 countries were represented and more than 500,000 square foot of expo space was available for attendee exploration. There were more than 100 training opportunities offered as well as 2,500 exhibiting manufacturers.
“Elevate your expertise through hands-on training, empowering your business to embrace the latest best practices. Stay at the forefront of ever-evolving vehicle technology with captivating live demos and product exhibits. AAPEX isn’t just some flashy Las Vegas car show; it’s where the industry takes on challenges, builds relationships, and propels businesses toward a greener future,” the website said.
“AAPEX is the only event that combines live, interactive demos and training; expert-led business education; and in-person connection with the global automotive aftermarket community. Spend three days in Las Vegas packed with everything you need to keep vehicles on the road and your business on the right track,” according to AAPEX.
Stay in the know with AAPEX-TV 360: explore highlights from 2023, watch in-depth videos on industry topics, and see photos and videos from the 2023 event.
The post Registration for AAPEX 2024 Now Open appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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During HDA Truck Pride’s recent Annual Meeting, attendees raised $35,000 for Kids Matter International.
Kicking off its 2024 Annual Meeting, HDA Truck Pride hosted a Cornhole Tournament & Welcome Dinner, where teams competed in a friendly yet spirited competition, with all proceeds being donated to Kids Matter International. Throughout the week there were additional opportunities for attendees to contribute to the charity partner and make an impact.
“We are honored to partner with Kids Matter International and incredibly proud of our network for their passionate efforts in being able to raise $35,000 for kids in need. The Kids Matter commitment to the Grapevine community deeply resonates with the values we hold within our HDA Truck Pride network. We’re all about communities coming together to help each other and protect future generations. What better way to do that than through some friendly competition?” said HDA Truck Pride President & CEO, Tina Hubbard.
Founded in 2006, Kids Matter International has been instrumental in providing essential resources and educational opportunities to children in need in the Grapevine, Texas, area. From providing new clothing, shoes, books, and backpacks, to offering educational programs, Kids Matter International empowers children and instills hope for a brighter future, HDA Truck Pride explained.
For a child who lives in poverty, wearing tattered, worn-out clothes and shoes can negatively impact their self-esteem and confidence. It can also negatively impact their ability to learn when not appropriately dressed for weather conditions. With a donation of $100, Kids Matter International provides up to $350 worth of new clothes and shoes to a child in need, the organization said.
“This donation will enable us to provide clothing to an additional 350 kids in 2024, resulting in a total value of $122,500 in new merchandise,” expressed Marti Conner, president & CEO of Kids Matter International. “On behalf of the children we serve, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to HDA Truck Pride and the attendees for making a significant difference in the lives of these children.”
The post HDA Truck Pride Raises $35,000 for Kids Matter International appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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Paul Donahue (at left) will transition from chairman and CEO to executive chairman. William Stengel, II, currently president and COO, will succeed Donahue as president and CEO of GPC and will serve as a member of the board of directors.
Genuine Parts Company announced that Paul D. Donahue will transition from chairman and CEO to executive chairman, effective June 3, 2024. At that time, William P. Stengel, II, currently president and COO, will succeed Donahue as president and CEO of GPC and will serve as a member of the board of directors.
“The board is confident that Will is the right person to lead GPC into the future and that the company is positioned to continue delivering value to our customers and shareholders,” said John D. Johns, lead independent director of GPC’s board of directors. “During his tenure at GPC, he’s worked closely with Paul to shape the company’s strategic priorities and with the global leadership teams to evolve the business and deliver outstanding performance.”
Stengel joined the company in 2019 as executive vice president and chief transformation officer with nearly two decades of leadership and professional experience. In 2021, he was promoted to serve as only the eighth president in the company’s history. His role expanded to president and chief operating officer in 2023. Prior to joining GPC, he served in various executive leadership roles at HD Supply, including as president and CEO of HD Supply Facilities Maintenance, as well as at The Home Depot and in various investment banking roles.
“I am humbled and honored for the opportunity to lead Genuine Parts Company and especially grateful for my GPC teammates and the support of Paul and the board of directors,” said Stengel. “We will continue to build on the strong foundation laid over many years as we work to deliver solutions for our customers, invest in talent and capabilities and create value for our shareholders.”
“On behalf of the board of directors, I want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Paul for his remarkable leadership spanning over two decades, culminating as chairman and CEO,” said Johns. “Under his leadership, the company simplified its business mix, expanded its global footprint and delivered significant shareholder value. Paul’s positive impact on GPC has been remarkable, and we look forward to his continued guidance as he transitions to his new role as executive chairman.”
“I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished as One GPC team, and equally grateful for the 20+ years I have been privileged to work for this amazing company. As I transition from the CEO role, I am pleased to welcome Will as only the sixth CEO in our company’s 96-year history,” said Donahue. “I have every confidence in Will, our global leadership teams and our board of directors to deliver on our vision to be the leading global automotive and industrial parts distributor and solutions provider.”
The post Genuine Parts Company Announces CEO Leadership Transition appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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PRT, an ADD Group brand, announced the launch of 30 new complete strut assemblies for light vehicles, SUVs and pickups, which it said represent more than 10 million vehicles in new coverage.
The launches covers a range of vehicle applications, including the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sorento and Acura RDX, in addition to brand-new applications, such as the GMC Acadia 2021, Chevrolet Blazer 2021, and Subaru Outback 2021, among others.
“These new items come to expand our coverage for the US aftermarket. As an OE supplier, we continually invest in research and development, delivering innovative solutions from OE to our clients in the aftermarket. The new products are in stock and ready to ship,” said Bruno Bello, director of global marketing.
For more information, call 1-770-238-1611, visit www.prtautoparts.com, or follow @prtautoparts.
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In his chairman’s message to the industry, Tom Trisdale, the new chairman of ASE and vice president, quality for Toyota, says 2024 is a year of “action and change” for the The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. It is the responsibility of ASE’s Board of Directors, he says, to help ASE advance to meet the realities of today’s market, support a pipeline for future technicians and elevate the value of professional certification for all.
Tom Trisdale, 2024 chairman of The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.“For more than 50 years, ASE has been a unifying force to improve the quality of repair and service in the transportation industry through testing and certification. With ASE, every professional technician can demonstrate their technical capability to the standards and tasks defined by their peers and experts in all areas of service, repair and diagnosis — across automotive, truck/heavy equipment and collision repair disciplines.
I am incredibly excited and honored to serve as the chair for the ASE board of directors in 2024. Through ASE, technicians, shop owners, dealers, parts makers, manufacturers of tools and equipment, service information providers and vehicle manufacturers all come together with one aim — elevate our profession and the results we all deliver to the motoring public.
This is a year of action and change at ASE. The challenges of repairing and servicing across all forms of vehicles have never been greater. The pressures facing working technicians have also never been higher. Now more than ever, the standards and structure that ASE and the ASE Education Foundation provide for our profession are needed to support our trade and provide confidence to the consumer. It is our responsibility, as a board and with industry partners, to help ASE advance to meet the realities of today’s market, support a pipeline for future technicians and elevate the value of professional certification for all. Working with and through the ASE leadership team, we are committed to:
- Confirm and update the alignment of ASE education standards and professional testing with the technologies on the road and in your shops
- Streamline access and availability of testing
- Elevate the understanding and visibility of professional technician development and certification by service professionals, consumers, service providers and other stakeholders
Nearly a quarter million service professionals, and more than 72,000 students, are currently certified by ASE. My challenge to all of us involved in the service or repair of motor vehicles, trucks and heavy equipment is to get engaged with ASE. Participate in the industry surveys of current work, join the technical webinars, promote our profession and importantly, get certified if you are not and if you are certified, promote the value of an industry standard measure of knowledge and capability. ASE is an organization that serves technicians and the entire motoring public, so let us work together and deliver on the mission of professional service and quality repair.
Click to learn more about The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.
The post 2024 to be a ‘Year Of Action’ for ASE, Says Chairman appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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If there’s any doubt to the importance of a coolant flush, let there be none. Simply put, engine coolant is a chemical. As it breaks down, it becomes increasingly acidic, leading to eventual corrosion on all the metal, plastic and rubber parts in the system.
The most misleading part is the color. Just because it may still look new doesn’t mean it acts that way. By the time coolant loses its nice hue and turns brown and rusty, it’s already years past what the service interval should have been, and it’s doing some serious damage to the cooling system. This is why it’s important to flush coolant at regular intervals.
The “old-school” rule of thumb has been to flush coolant every two years. However, many newer vehicles specify five or even six years, or as many as 150,000 miles before the coolant needs to be changed.
It’s true these newer coolants will last longer due to their advanced chemical composition, but they were developed out of necessity. The aluminum, plastic and pot metals used in today’s vehicles are far more susceptible to rapid corrosion. When everything was cast-iron, it was far less of a problem.
Because of the increased propensity for corrosion, when testing coolant, it’s become important to not only check the freeze protection, but also the pH, or level of acidity of the coolant, regardless of the specified interval. When the pH level begins to drop, the coolant is becoming more acidic, and will cause damage to the cooling-system components. You can do this by using pH test strips.
Coolant flushes are a common DIY service, and it’s likely you’ll get questions on the process from time to time. Like a lot of automotive services, there can be more than meets the eye, so the first thing I always recommend is before you begin, be sure to block off plenty of time. You can’t rush through a thorough
coolant flush.To ensure the most effective job, it can be beneficial to start with a flush solvent or cooling-system cleaner. These products are designed to loosen built-up rust and sediment, as well as act as a degreaser to remove any oil buildup in the system. When using one of these products, be sure to follow the instructions for use. They are only effective when you use them as specified.
Some shops may offer a coolant drain and fill, which I like to clarify does not hold the same definition of a flush. The drain-and-fill method works as it sounds. It’s a quick drain of the radiator, followed by filling it with fresh coolant and checking cooling-system operation. This requires much less coolant, is not preceded by a flush solvent and is not a thorough cleaning of the entire cooling system.
The drain-and-fill method is, however, effective to maintain the condition of coolant, but only when it is performed on a very routine basis.
A coolant flush is a deep cleaning of the cooling system, and an attempt to completely flush out sediment and rust buildup from the most remote nooks and crannies of the system. The longer a vehicle goes without coolant service, the more important the coolant flush in this manner.
The trick is opening the system in enough places so you can get access for a thorough flush, and whenever I recommend a coolant flush, I recommend a new coolant thermostat. When it’s time for a coolant flush, it means the thermostat is old. Period. Thermostats only last so long; in my opinion they should be considered regular service items. But aside from that, the thermostat will block the flow of the water in a manner that prevents a thorough service.
Getting Started
So, here’s the overall workflow of a coolant flush.
I begin by adding a flush solvent and letting it circulate per manufacturer instructions. Then, after the system has cooled, I drain the radiator and remove both the upper and lower radiator hoses. Next, I disconnect the heater hoses (sometimes at the engine, sometimes at the heater core depending on access), and I remove the thermostat. Some vehicles have more complicated arrays of cooling hoses, depending on the engine or additional oil and transmission coolers. In some cases, I remove some of these as well to be sure I’m able to accurately flush all parts of the system.
Finally, if the vehicle has a separate coolant reservoir, which most of them do today, I remove the reservoir. At this step, I also clean the mounting surface for the thermostat housing, as well as any water-neck corrosion so this is all washed away during the flush.
Now you have the system open in multiple locations to allow unrestricted flow. I use a hose to flush the radiator, the engine block, the heater core, and when there are additional coolant hoses for auxiliary coolers, I flush those as well. I flush every section in both directions, to allow the pressure from the hose to agitate and loosen sediment.
I continue to flush each section or component until I see only clean, clear water coming out. I also use a combination of compressed air and the water hose to clean the radiator and/or A/C condenser fins. Be sure to also thoroughly flush out the coolant reservoir. If it’s heavily contaminated and you’re having a hard time getting everything out, or if it’s badly discolored and hard to see through, it should be replaced.
Once I’m satisfied everything is well flushed, it’s time to install the new thermostat and reinstall all the hoses.
The Water Question
I often get questions about the water. Some people have well water, some city water, some treated, some not. If you look online, you’ll find varied opinions on what is best to use. Some say softened water, some say store-bought distilled water, some point out potential negative affects related to any of them. The biggest problem with many water sources is minerals or hard particulate that, while they aren’t enough to cause corrosion problems, may be enough to damage water-pump seals.
So, here’s what I do. You have to use water to flush the system. Use what you have. If you’ve removed all the necessary hoses to properly flush all portions of the system, the majority of all the water will drain back out. If you’re concerned about contaminants – for example if you have well water that you know has a lot of iron or particulates in it – pour distilled water into the different sections of the system and allow it to drain out. This will displace any of the questionable water.
What may remain just won’t be enough to be a problem. Then, instead of mixing your own coolant, I recommend using a pre-mix 50/50. This ensures the overall best quality. In most cases, what little water remains in the system is not enough to reduce the freeze protection of 50/50 coolant, so you can use this for the entire fill.
Once the system is buttoned up, fill the coolant and run the vehicle until the thermostat opens and the vehicle reaches operating temperature. While this is routine for most vehicles, keep in mind that some have specific procedures to bleed the air out of the system.
Aside from a drain pan, coolant and thermostat, most basic hand tools are all you need to get the job done. However, most cars now have constant-tension hose clamps, also known as spring clamps. You can fight with these, or you can use a hose clamp tool, which saves a ton of time and aggravation. Some people prefer to discard these clamps in favor of worm clamps, but I recommend reusing them. They offer a much more consistent, even clamping force on hose connections, and help prevent distortion of plastic fittings.
The final tool I recommend is a spill-free funnel. These are inexpensive, but worth their weight in gold. Anytime you perform cooling-system service, there are air pockets in the system. When you fill it for the first time and let the vehicle warm up, the expansion of the air is drastic and forces the coolant out. Once the thermostat opens and all air pockets are forced out, the system “settles” down.
You can usually avoid a mess on systems that have a coolant reservoir, as long as you don’t fill it too full at first. But a spill-free funnel comes with adapters to connect to radiators and reservoirs. Not only does it keep you from spilling coolant as you fill it, but it also keeps the coolant from spilling out while the system is warming up for the first time.
As soon as the thermostat opens, you will see it draw all the coolant in. You can top it off at that time, remove the spill-free funnel and install the radiator or reservoir cap. As a final check, let the system cool completely and top off
the coolant.The post The Purge: Flushing & Filling the Coolant appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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This article, contributed by Tom Cook, is courtesy of AftermarketNews.
All companies engaged in the global supply chain seek to lower the “landed costs” on their goods in imports and exports sales, purchasing and operations.
While there are numerous components that make up “landed costs,” duties, taxes and tariffs are a huge factor and can often be a detriment to global trade.
Duties, taxes and tariffs are costs borne by the importer as the goods enter a country. These fees are assessed by the country’s local customs authority. In the USA, this is the U.S. Bureau of Customs Border and Protection (CBP).
These fees are determined by what the product is and where it is from. The “what” is known as the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) and the “where” is the actual origin country of the product.
While some of the guidelines are standardized from one country to another, we must understand that the customs rules and their interoperation often vary differently from one country to another. Sometimes the differences are slight and in other countries the differences are huge.
The importer of record (IOR) has the primary responsibility to determine the correct HTS and origin upon entry of the goods for customs clearance in the country of import.
Most importers utilize the services of freight forwarders, customhouse brokers and/or 3PL’s to provide these clearance services, as well as rely on their expertise to accomplish the clearance process in a successful and compliant manner.
Importers may also obtain the assistance of these service providers in determining the correct HTS classification and
the origin.Importers are legally responsible to exercise:
• Due Diligence
• Reasonable Care
• Supervision & ControlThese standards are the responsibility of the importer of record (IOR). If the IOR outsources the responsibility to a customs broker, under the “supervision & control” standard, the IOR is still responsible for supervising and controlling for the statements and information provided by this third-party on their behalf.
This standard requires the importer to have a working knowledge of the import regulations and be able to properly supervise their outsourced provider.
Customs recognizes that an importer may need guidance in the clearance process. This may be received from CBP, a qualified consultant, a customs attorney or a practitioner that has expertise in customs regulations.
It is critical to understand the steps in managing duties, taxes and tariffs. The first is to understand how the import regulations apply, followed by learning what measures can be taken to mitigate the risk and cost associated with duties, taxes and tariffs. If the origin and the classification are the controlling factors, it is important to understand that this is where the answers lie to mitigation.
For example, Section 301 tariffs on certain goods exported from China into the U.S. may add as much as a 25% surcharge to the import landed cost. This resulted in many companies seeking out alternative sourcing options to avoid this surcharge.
In addressing alternative sourcing options, nearshoring, reshoring and friend shoring – countries such as but not limited to Vietnam, S. Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia – all presented viable options.
In some situations, the acquisition cost may have been higher, but when calculating the landed cost, with the 25% duty eliminated, the comparison demonstrated a viable alternative to the importer.
Companies involved in aftermarket sales, where margins are tight, can benefit from this type of analysis and mitigation strategy.
Another strategy involves the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, or what the product is, from CBP’s perspective.
First, we want to make sure we are utilizing the proper HTS number. It can be possible that the correct HTS number, when changed, will offer a lower duty rate.
Secondly, what we refer to as “Tariff Engineering” is a legitimate manipulation of a product’s design or materials that impacts its classification and potentially lowers the duty rate.
The choice of materials, the functionality of the product, product specifications or qualities all impact how a product is classified.
For example, changing the make-up of the materials utilized in fabrics, such as the mix of cotton, rayon, nylon, etc. will change the classification of a product. Features such as changing the product to be waterproof and adding other qualities may also change the tariff classification and impact the duty rate.
Another example may be how the product is designed; for example, for personal utilization or for commercial application, may have an impact.
How parts and equipment are assembled and utilized can also have an impact on the classification as well as the origin.
The amount of “value-add” in the manufacturing or assembly process can also impact how CBP will view the origin and/or the HTS, therefore directly impacting the duty rates.
Tariff Engineering requires R&D, engineering, and technical support, as well as guidance from trade professionals that can assist in interpreting the import regulations and research prior CBP rulings.
CBP has a great resource called CROSS which is a searchable database of CBP rulings that can be retrieved based on simple or complex search characteristics using keywords and Boolean operators. CROSS has the added functionality of cross-referencing rulings from the initial search result set with their modified, revoked or referenced counterparts.
Rulings collections are separated into Headquarters and New York and span the years 1989 to present. Collections can be searched individually or collectively.
CROSS can be an excellent resource in managing the impact of duties and tariffs on
landed costs.Duties, taxes and tariffs often emanate from political and economic positions from government offices and agencies. We witnessed this when President Trump put forward the 232 and 301 Tariffs in his first year in office.
China then secured retaliatory duties. We have seen these similar actions in the EU, Australia, Mexico and Canada.
Personnel in the aftermarket engaged in global supply chain purchasing, sales and operations need to pay attention to the political and economic situations in the countries they do business in, as regulations impacting duties and tariffs change frequently with both positive and negative consequences.
Additionally, trade organizations’ lobbying efforts should be followed with the Executive Branch and Congress. These efforts seek to keep open free trade concepts and minimize the utilization of duties and tariffs as political and economic weapons in global affairs.
Studies have been accomplished that clearly demonstrate the negative impact of tariffs on manufacturing, distribution, and trade costs in the global supply chain.
While many tariffs are designed to protect industries or certain markets, they generally wreak havoc in global trade and have negative impacts.
The automobile industry, its suppliers and ancillary industries such as the aftermarket are significantly impacted by duties, taxes and tariffs.
In controlling “landed costs,” duty and tariff mitigation as outlined above are all good strategies, but there are other options that also should be considered:
• Utilization of Foreign Trade Zones
• Consolidating Transportation Providers and Carriers
• Running annual Freight RFP’s
• Choice of INCO Terms
• Alternative Sourcing
• Free Trade Agreements
• Location and methodology in warehousing, fulfillment, and distribution
• Utilization of Technology
• Demand Planning Systems
In summary, developing strategies in tariff mitigation is a viable solution to duty and tariff management and ultimately lowering landed costs and enhancing your company’s competitiveness in both import and export purchasing
and sales.Thomas Cook is Managing Director of Blue Tiger International, a global consultancy advising on supply chain management, trade compliance, purchasing, trade and disruption management, global business and logistics. For more information, go to www.bluetigerintl.com. Tom can be reached directly at [email protected].
The post The Impact of Trade and Tariffs on the Aftermarket appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings, is proud to announce the launch of BCA’s 2024 Endless Summer promotion. During the promotion, BCA’s warehouse distributor customers can earn BCA-branded, premium merchandise with orders of BCA wheel hub assemblies, bearings and seals.
“We are thrilled to announce the BCA Endless Summer promotion” said Patrick Cronin, Marketing Manager, Automotive Aftermarket. “The Endless Summer theme evokes a relaxed and carefree feeling that we all strive to achieve; the same carefree feeling we want associated with using our premium parts. We are looking forward to summer and another great promotion.”
BCA’s Endless Summer promotion enables distributor customers to earn tiered packages of BCA branded merchandise with qualifying orders, which they can then use to conduct their own localized promotions. This allows the BCA-branded merchandise to reach every level of the distribution channel, from the parts professionals and service advisors who recommend BCA products to the technicians that install them.
The Endless Summer theme is meant to embody the warm summer feeling you wish would never end, and the promo items were selected to complement the theme and keep summer going long after Labor Day has come and gone. A floating stress relief keychain, waterproof phone pouch and backpack keep your valuables high and dry during a day at the beach. A misting water bottle and insulated picnic basket keep you and your snacks cool as the classic triangle kite drifts above in the summer breeze. Get out of the sun with the pop up shelter as you relax on the beach lounge pad, and then fire up the mini tabletop fire pit to roast marshmallows for smores. Now you’re living the Endless Summer with BCA.
BCA’s 2024 Endless Summer promotion runs from May 1 through June 30, 2024. For participation details, please contact a BCA Sales Representative or Customer Relations Advocate.
The post BCA Bearings Unveils 2024 Endless Summer Promotion appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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Automotive technology is funny. It always seems so new when we’re forced to catch up with it and weave it into our everyday routine. Then we find out it’s been around much longer than we realize. We didn’t worry about it until suddenly, some form of it was on almost every vehicle on the road.
Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), is one of those technologies, and like it or not, it’s time to jump on the ADAS bandwagon. Luckily, because it’s not as new as it seems, the tool and equipment technology to help us service these systems is coming of age. In other words, we’re no longer fighting through the growing pains of it. It’s here. It works, and it works well.
The acronym is the newest part of all of it, and you might be surprised you’re already familiar with some of it. The purpose of ADAS, simply put, is to help drivers operate vehicles on a safer level, and its early roots were the development of antilock braking systems.
Of course, today it’s much more complex with systems like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, but nonetheless it’s all there for the same reason. ADAS are categorized into levels, determined by the amount of automation for any given system. Understanding them not only helps explain certain aspects to your customer, but it can help you as a technician to understand the various aspects and need for calibration.
Level 0: No Driving
Automation
These systems don’t control the vehicle in any way, they only provide information or situational assistance to the driver. Examples are blind spot warnings, forward collision warnings, lane departure warnings and antilock braking systems.Level 1: Driver
Assistance
These systems have the ability to control a single function of the vehicle, for example, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, but the driver is responsible for the main task of driving and braking, and these systems can be switched off by the driver.Level 2: Partial
Driving Automation
At this level, ADAS can control multiple functions, for example lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control, which employs both lateral and longitudinal control at the same time. The vehicle is able to perform both functions on its own, but with the intent that the driver is monitoring them at all times. The driver must touch the steering wheel at regular intervals, so the system recognizes it is being monitored. Level 2 ADAS allows for temporary “hands free” driving, and this is the highest level legal for vehicles in the U.S.Level 3: Conditional Driving Automation
These systems can control most of the functions of a car, and the vehicle can temporarily take over the task of driving, without regular monitoring from the driver. The driver must be able to take over control and respond to warnings from the system. There are currently no vehicles in the U.S. that are available at this level.Level 4: High Driving Automation
Level four is defined as complete autonomy under certain conditions. The driver is no longer required to be ready to intervene at any time and could for example, even sleep with level 4 ADAS. This level is, however, linked to very specific conditions such as driving on a defined route or in a parking garage.
Level 5: Full Driving Automation
These vehicles will have the ability to drive anywhere, under any conditions with no input from a “driver.” These vehicles would not require a steering wheel, or for that matter, an accelerator or brake pedal. In these vehicles, we are no longer drivers. We are just passengers.Coming of Age
The apprehension of ADAS repair can be compared to any new technology where we “fight” with the equipment available to us as it catches up with the technology. For ADAS, the equipment has come of age. It’s no longer a dealer-only proposition.
Technicians and independent shops can own the necessary equipment to successfully repair and calibrate ADAS systems. The scan tool technology and software is well-refined for ADAS diagnosis and repair, just as it is for all other vehicle systems. Equipment and tool manufacturers have been focused on making this repair technology viable for independent shops, and they’ve succeeded in their efforts.
The calibration area and required space that seemed as if it would be the biggest factor affecting small shops, is now hardly a factor with lifts that are designed to maximize the functionality of individual bays, and scan tool technology that has advanced to maximize the use of limited space whenever possible.ADAS Servicing
When it comes to servicing ADAS, the most important concept to remember is that ADAS cameras and radar sensors do not have moving parts inside. Cameras are set at the factory for focus and field of view. Radar sensors have a very specific beam pattern that can’t be changed.
A calibration procedure typically uses a target with a specific pattern, shape or even thickness. The target is set at a specific distance, angle and orientation from a measured point on the vehicle. The vehicle knows what the target or fixture should look or sound like because it was programmed into the system at the factory. The scan tool activates this “memory,” so it can compare and possibly adjust.
The majority of forward-facing cameras can’t mechanically change their point of view. The focus and field of view are set at the factory, and there are typically no moving parts. For example, no motors are moving the zoom or the angle of the camera. Instead, corrections are made with software that can “crop” in on the correct field of view and the vehicle’s centerline.
Think of the camera lens as a wide-angle, but the software uses it as a telephoto.
The same is true for blind-spot and rearview cameras. So, when you are calibrating the camera system, you are calibrating what area of the image the camera pays attention to. This prevents a roadside sign or a car in the next lane from becoming classified as an obstacle.
Radar sensors emit radio waves that bounce off of objects and are received by the sensor. These types of sensors can detect objects and vehicles no matter the lighting conditions.
There are two types of radar: long-range and mid-range. Long-range sensors are used to measure the presence, distance and even speed in a narrow field of view. This type of radar is called millimeter-wave radar by some manufacturers.
Long-range sensors can measure up to 600 feet in front of the vehicle.
Mid-range can detect objects 200 feet from the vehicle. But mid-range radar sensors only measure objects that are in near proximity to the vehicle. These radar sensors can be used for blind spot and cross-traffic detection.
Calibration of radar sensors typically involves adjusting their position. Long-range sensors generally are mounted above or below the front bumper. Mid-range sensors can be mounted behind bumper covers, roof pillars and the corners of the vehicle.
The position of a long-range radar sensor can be moved using adjustment screws behind the sensor to adjust direction and elevation. This type of adjustment is typically required if the sensor has been replaced or disturbed.
Ultrasonic sensors have been on vehicles for more than 20 years. These are the small, round sensors mounted in the rear or front bumper of some vehicles. Ultrasonic sensors can detect objects that are typically within 10 feet from the vehicle. They send out soundwaves of a specific frequency that bounce off objects. The greater the return, the closer the object. These are very simple sensors that are used in backup monitor systems and blind-spot detection. Ultrasonic sensors have a very wide angle of detection and low resolution. As a result, ultrasonic sensors don’t need calibration on most vehicles.
The ADAS module assumes that the target is positioned correctly when the scan tool initiates the calibration mode. The system trusts that you took the time to set up the targets with some degree of accuracy. It compares the factory settings to the actual values. It uses this information to make adjustments. If the required adjustment is outside of the parameters, a mechanical adjustment to the sensor will then have to be made to the mount or adjusters, if you are lucky.
When you set up a target or fixture for a camera or radar calibration, the position and distance from the vehicle is critical to the performance and operation of the system. If the target or fixture is even a few millimeters off in position, it can severely affect system operation, as the camera or radar can end up “looking” at the wrong spot by many feet or meters.
As with any technology, servicing it is half equipment and half experience. The equipment is here. The experience starts when you do.The post ADAS: Coming of Age appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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or our commercial customers, price and quality are two of the most important considerations when purchasing parts from you (and your competitors). The third is availability, but at least we have some control over what gets stocked in our stores. Barring supply chain issues and material shortages, keeping the right mix of parts available is up to our buyers and inventory specialists. Unless your store’s pricing strategy is out of line with the competition, pricing (and quality) complaints fall squarely on the vendor/manufacturer.
This is not to say that if you are experiencing price, quality, or availability issues with a current vendor that you shouldn’t already be looking for alternate sourcing for the affected SKUs or product lines. During the latest UAW strike, GM and Stellantis parts warehouses were crippled by walkouts, leaving their dealer networks scrambling to provide parts for their customers. Many dealerships were forced to bolster their inventories with quality aftermarket-equivalent products just to keep work flowing through their service departments.
For the aftermarket, this was a perfect storm of opportunity. There was less competition from the local dealership in terms of parts sales, and those same dealers were calling on aftermarket suppliers more often for parts they could not readily obtain through their OEM channels. Due to the perception that OE parts are the best option for their vehicle brand (and a need to provide the same level of service, warranty coverage, and quality) these requests were often for premium product lines. Dealerships are generally unwilling to risk their reputation by installing bargain-basement parts, and the expectation that dealership parts and service will carry a premium price tag silences many objections well ahead of the sale. Independent shops specializing in repair or resale of luxury and performance brands also enjoy a more quality-conscious clientele willing to pay a premium for their services.
There is, however, a subset of dealerships (and some general repair shops) for whom price trumps all other considerations. Your local “buy-here-pay-here” used car lot might come to mind, reconditioning and “flipping” (usually lower-end) auction vehicles, while offering very limited warranty terms. For this market, requests will usually gravitate toward the “least expensive” parts option. Even the most quality-conscious shops sometimes need to hit a “price-point” to stay competitive, and we all have that DIY customer who just wants “the cheapest thing that fits” because they are “trading it in soon” (even though they’ve been telling you that each time they’ve been in for the last three years!).
In an effort to accommodate all types of customer needs, we are likely to offer multiple lines for most of our “commodity” parts. Filters, brakes, chassis parts, belts, lighting, wipers, and fluids are some of the most common categories in which we offer diverse price and quality options. This isn’t necessarily an issue of price versus quality, but rather comparing the value realized from an item’s price and its quality. For maintenance items like filters, an installer might have a “menu” pricing schedule for oil changes, air and cabin filters, and wiper blades. These services generally include labor at no “additional” cost, and the parts already have a recommended service interval. Selling at a fixed price can be tricky when the costs are variable, so shops often use value-line parts for these services. If the shop advertises “any air filter $49.95 installed,” you can bet they will choose your $12 store brand filter over the $25 premium filter whenever they can! These parts will likely provide sufficient service life, and the cost savings to the shop offsets some of the lost labor revenue. On our side of the counter, oil is usually marketed as a loss leader priced to get customers through the front door. Shops treat oil changes the same way, as an opportunity to get the vehicle in the shop to upsell more profitable work.
We would never knowingly offer a product that doesn’t meet some sort of minimum quality standards, nor would we recommend a product that won’t meet a customer’s (reasonable) expectations. The use of “features and benefits” as a selling tool helps classify the customer’s needs, explains the differences in pricing and quality, and minimizes disappointment by customers who expected premium performance and extended service life from the bare-bones product they selected based on price alone.
The post Minding Your P’s And Q’s appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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Your customers may be using air tools in a variety of circumstances for an even wider variety of jobs. Here’s how to help them understand why they need to buy the right fitting for the application.
There are multiple different sizes and styles, and what one shop uses may not be the same as another. The size and style affect the volume of air they can deliver, a critical point because air tools require a specific pressure and volume for proper operation, and restrictive fittings can limit their performance. Here’s a look at the most common sizes and styles found in most automotive shops, and how you can identify them.
For more ToolIntel training, visit TechShop.
The post Tool Intel – Understanding Air Tool Fittings and Couplers appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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The digital edition of Counterman’s April 2024 issue, part of AMN/Counterman magazine, is available for viewing on the Counterman website.
The April issue features tech articles on rotating electrical assemblies and components; explaining the importance of a coolant flush; timing chains; and understanding the key differences between OHV, SOHC and DOHC valvetrains.
The issue also features Tom Dayton’s popular “Counter View,” focusing on minding your Ps and Qs (price and quality).
To view the April 2024 digital edition of Counterman, click here. Or, browse back issues in the Counterman archive.
The post Read the April Digital Edition of Counterman appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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The ASE Education Foundation, International Truck and IC Bus have partnered to provide what they said is a unique training opportunity for 10 outstanding instructors from ASE-accredited post-secondary medium/heavy truck training programs.
The following instructors were chosen to attend a five-day, hands-on training session at the Navistar OEM state-of-the-art training center in Woodridge, Illinois, and received a $1,000 scholarship to underwrite travel expenses.
- Nathan Berry, University of Alaska Anchorage
- Wayne Carpenter, Auto/Diesel Institute of Michigan
- Brad Conklin, Pennsylvania College of Technology
- Justin Conway, Lehigh Career and Technical Institute
- Robbie Lindhorst, Southeastern Illinois College
- Shannon McCarty, Ashland Community and Technical College
- Chad Parsons, Laramie County Community College
- Joe Valora, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College
- Brad Wake, Francis Tuttle Tech Center
- Lane Yarbrough, East Mississippi Community College
To be eligible for the scholarships, instructors had to be nominated by their supervisors and submit an application, explaining how their program and students would benefit and why they should be selected. Representatives from the ASE Education Foundation, International Truck and IC Bus reviewed the submissions and selected the 10 winners whose programs would benefit the most from attending the hands-on training.
The post ASE Education Foundation Partners on 10 Training Scholarships appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
Photo from left: Pratik Shah, Schaeffler Key Account Manager; Klaus Rosenfeld, Schaeffler CEO; Peter Layer, GM Purchasing, Executive Director of Chassis Propulsion Structures; Jon Jameson, Schaeffler Sr. Vice President Global Key Account Manager; Allen Pervo, Schaeffler Key Account Manager
allow users to charge by temperature and provide an easier, more accurate way to determine when an AC recharge is complete. Charging an automotive AC system using temperature helps the user avoid overcharging the system.
Hella Blade 6˝ Series Illuminates Off-Road Adventures
in Auto Parts Brands and Manufacturers
Posted
HELLA has introduced the all-new HELLA BLADE LED 6” Series Auxiliary Lights, now available exclusively to the US and Canadian markets. Designed to meet the toughest demands of the most challenging off-road conditions, the HELLA BLADE Series combines powerful illumination with innovative features for the ultimate driving experience.
HELLA BLADE’s innovative LED position light produces an intense 8,500 lumens driven by six powerful, 6000k LED modules ensuring exceptional visibility and off-road performance. The unique design and versatility of the LED position light, equipped with white and amber option modes and razor-sharp contours, elevates the HELLA BLADE Series to a whole, new level above the competition.
Key Features and Benefits:
Learn more about the HELLA Blade 6” Series or other products available from HELLA.
The post Hella Blade 6˝ Series Illuminates Off-Road Adventures appeared first on Counterman Magazine.
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