Counterman

Following a successful first year, Continental’s “Make Power Smart” app is announcing a new version of the app that will include updates and enhancements for the user. The app also will be available for download in Europe for Android and iOS. Updates and improvements include: User registration – Allows users to sign up and manage drive systems properly for a better customer experience Multiple languages – The app now is available in English, German, French, Spanish and Italian.Belt ID –Allows forselection of the belt category and access to the product specification page for an easy identification and application Drive calculation – Easily calculate and select a belt for a two-pulley system. This latest version of the app provides a more complete product range of V-belts and timing belts for North America(previously it was only possible to calculate drives based on the Synchrochain Carbon).Tension2Go –The ability tomeasure the tension value of a drive system in a very fast, easy and intuitive wayPulley-center distance – The ability to measure the diameter of the pulley, the center distance and the wrapping angle from a picture “At Continental, we are always looking for new and improved ways to provide value to our customers,” said Jenelle Ogburn, head of Americas Industrial Distribution, Power Transmission Group. “The Make Power Smart app has been a successful step of launching into the digital age to help our customers do work easily and effectively, and we’re excited to enhance the user experience and grow the app outside of the North American market.” The app allows users to get a digital and interactive analysis of a belt with just a few clicks on their smartphone. It also provides important data on the drive condition, enabling users to improve the belt drives themselves on the site – with all of the tools needed on one easily accessible app. The Make Power Smart app originally was conceived as part of Continental’s internal innovation competition and later was chosen as the winner. It originally launched in summer 2021 and has consistently received positive reviews from customers. The app is available for download in the AppStore and Playstore. In case you already have the app installed on your mobile device, please update it to the latest version that’s available now. The post Continental Upgrades ‘Make Power Smart’ App appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

As luck would have it, I have the perfect serpentine-belt story to demonstrate: 1) the strange side of automotive repair; 2) the crazy things you have to deal with as a counter professional; and 3) that professional technicians can make mistakes, even when we don’t realize it. A few years back, a friend of mine had driven to Georgia for a month-long visit with family. While they were down there, one of the front brakes locked up. They took the car to a local shop, which quoted them a lot more money than they could afford to fix the car. Since they were a close friend, and since I always looked for an excuse for a road trip, I agreed to help. I was confident in their description of the problem, and even though I had never worked on the vehicle – a 1991 Lincoln Town Car – I was sure the problem was either a caliper or a hose. I bought all the brake parts I could possibly need, rented the cheapest econo-box car I could find for one way, filled the trunk with parts and tools and set the cruise control for Georgia. As soon as I arrived, I transferred my cargo to the Town Car, turned in the rental and went to work. All I needed to do was fix it just enough so the car would make it back to Ohio and the comfort of my shop. I slapped on the caliper, bled it out and it was ready to go. However, before hitting the road, I did a quick check-over of the rest of the car. My only serious concern was the serpentine belt. It was severely cracked and worn – probably one of the worst I had seen. I envisioned it falling apart somewhere in the mountains, so I thought it was best to replace it. On the way to the freeway, I stopped at one of the large auto parts stores and bought a belt. Since I hadn’t planned on this, I also had to buy a serpentine-belt tool. The belt took me longer than normal to replace because the accessories on the bottom of the engine were difficult to get to, but I could see them well enough to know the belt was on correctly, and all the pulleys and tensioners seemed OK. I started it up, the belt ran true, so I was good to go. The freeway was still a couple miles and a half-dozen traffic lights away. Sitting at the very last light before 600-plus miles of open road, the car suddenly started making a terrible noise under the hood. The rhythmic nature of the noise told me something was wrong with what I had just done. I dodged the entrance ramp for the side of the road. The new serpentine belt had completely shredded and fallen apart. I removed the remains of it, and luckily still had the old one in the trunk. I double-checked all the pulleys and tensioners and could see no problem, so I reinstalled the old belt. Clearly, it couldn’t have been my mistake, so I blamed the belt for being defective. But, I still wanted a new one for the trip, so I returned to the auto parts store. I explained the problem, but they didn’t have another one. They refunded my money with no questions asked – which was, from a standpoint of customer service, the correct thing to do, and from my standpoint, also correct since a defective part wasn’t my problem. With no option for a new belt, I had no choice but to cross my fingers and make the trip. I made it back without a single problem. The next week I took the car into the shop to properly finish up the brake work and install another new belt. This time the car was on the lift, so I draped the belt in place from the top, and as I always do, raised the car up so I could loop the belt around the accessories on the bottom. Then I saw the problem. It turned out the correct belt for the car was a seven-rib belt. Someone in the past had installed an earlier-model A/C compressor that had a six-rib pulley, and they had installed a six-rib belt so it would work. Oops. In my apparent haste, I didn’t notice that when changing the belt. Of course, a six-rib belt works fine on seven-rib pulleys. But when the seven-rib belt was forced to work on the six-rib pulley, it shredded like cheese going on a pizza. The counter professional where I bought the belt didn’t question whether or not it was defective. He just refunded my money. But he could have questioned it and maybe he should have, and not necessarily with the intent to say I had made a mistake, but in the interest of figuring out what had happened. Admittedly, I was surprised by the “defective” belt, but my confidence got in the way of common sense. Had I been questioned, I may have thought a little harder and began to wonder if indeed I had missed something. Well, we all make mistakes. Selling Serpentine Belts So, what goes into selling serpentine belts? The application is normally the easy part unless you have a crazy story like mine, but you may often be asked how to tell if the belt is worn out. Small cracks in the top surface of the teeth are normal and common, even with low miles on a belt. When the cracks extend all the way down to base of the teeth, that’s a belt that should be replaced. The more prevalent indicator, however, is the cross-section of the teeth. When they’re new, the belt teeth aren’t pointy. They are squared-off at the top, and the cross-section of the belt will mate perfectly in the pulley grooves, providing maximum contact area. When the belt wears, the teeth become pointy and the cross-section of the belt changes drastically, reducing the contact area. These visual inspections almost always allow you to make an easy decision about the belt. However, if condition ever is in question, and the vehicle owner isn’t sure of age or mileage, then it’s time to replace it. But the belt isn’t the only factor. Idler pulleys and tensioner pulleys are ideal upsell recommendations. Any loss of proper tension and any misalignment – both of which can be caused by worn idler or tensioner pulleys – will cause premature belt wear and/or noise. Noise is the big one, and usually the first thing that makes people think about replacing the belt. Serpentine belts normally run very quiet, which is one of the reasons we like them so much. Any squeaking or chirping usually gets blamed on the belt, and usually it’s the reason they’re replaced. Make no mistake: A worn belt certainly can make noise, but usually it’s in combination with other factors. It’s not uncommon to install a new serpentine belt to remedy a squeaking noise, only to find the noise is still there. In most of these cases, the belt truly needed replaced, but think of the perception by the customer. If they’re not aware of the other factors involved, they’re going to blame it on the quality of the belt. It happens often. Go figure! Who would ever claim a new serpentine belt was defective? As I previously mentioned, incorrect alignment or incorrect tension can and will cause noise. In addition to pulley and tensioner condition, when the belt is installed, it makes a great straight edge. If it’s not perfect, then something is misaligned. The most common culprit for noise, however, is dirt, debris and particles lodged in the accessory pulleys. If you don’t see it at first, look closer. It often collects in the base of the pulley grooves. As innocent as it may look, it will cause you to pull your hair out chasing a noise. There are plenty of ideas floating around about how to clean them, but the bottom line is that it simply doesn’t matter. Clean is clean. Here’s the catch. Often, the debris is embedded in the grooves to the point where you have to dig or scrape it out with a pick, then follow it up with a wire brush. It’s not always fun, but it’s the only way to ensure no noise from the belt. You can use any solvent or degreaser you want, but that’s just the finishing touch. The physical debris must be removed, all the way around each and every pulley. When it comes to upsells, belt tools are nice to have in stock. These are generally just for releasing the tension on the belt, but there’s another tool that’s a long metal rod with two metal “fingers” on the end. They are designed to grab and maneuver the belt, so you can install it in cars with very limited space to work. These can be a real lifesaver. If the car has more than one belt, it’s a good idea to recommend all of them at the same time. If one is worn out, the other most likely will be too. It’s almost always a dirty job too, and one that causes a lot of skinned knuckles because you’re working in such a tight space. Shop towels and mechanics gloves are a great recommendation. If they don’t want gloves, point them to the nearest drug store to pick up Band-Aids on the way home. They’ll probably need them! Last but not least are stretch belts. All the same rules for wear and inspection still apply, but there’s no tensioner. They have an elastic core that allows them to keep tension on the pulleys. They work great. Period. But installation is different. You absolutely must use the correct tool. It’s not that the tools are earth-shattering wonders; they simply provide a smooth ramp to guide the belts in place. If you do it any other way, you risk damaging, and most likely will damage, the belt. Oh yeah, and for the record, I didn’t put another six-rib belt on the Town Car. I installed the correct A/C compressor pulley and put a seven-rib belt on the car. The way it should have been. The post Serpentine Belts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Aftermarket Riders Club (AARC) will “Ride for the Future” this October to fund scholarships and educational opportunities for the next generation of industry professionals. AARC encourages those who support its mission to donate to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, sponsor a rider or join AARC on this year’s epic adventure. The scenic ride will begin at Eagle Rider Rentals and Tours in Las Vegas on Thursday, Oct. 27, with the riders heading to Zion National Park in Southern Utah and Lake Powell in Northern Arizona. The following day, the riders will spend the day at the Grand Canyon before heading back to Las Vegas on Oct. 29 via Kingman, Arizona on Route 66. Interested riders can rent motorcycles from Eagle Rider Rentals and Tours with an advance reservation. For more information or to learn how to become a rider or sponsor, contact Jim McGonagle at [email protected]. To support the AARC Ride for the Future by making a donation to the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, visit UofA-Foundation.org and click on the donate tab or download and submit the AARC donor form from the resources section of the UAF website. The post Automotive Aftermarket Riders Club ‘Ride For The Future’ Set For Oct. 27 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has introduced a new floor display as a part of its ClearContact commercial-duty wiper-blades program. The display can accommodate an assortment of up to 70 wiper blades that can be selected by the retailer or service facility. Continental will help customize a product mix that best fits the customer’s sales and applications needs. The ClearContact commercial-duty line includes 43 part numbers in lengths from 10 to 40 inches. The blades are specially engineered for commercial trucks, RVs, transit buses, school buses, motorcoaches and off-highway vehicles. “This high-impact display is an excellent sales tool for service centers, truck stops and parts retailers for commercial-duty vehicles and RVs,” said Laura Huerst, Continental product manager. “It features a very small footprint of 18 inches long by 18 inches wide by 63.5 inches high and the display header card includes a QR code that links directly to an application guide, allowing customers to find the exact blades they need. This gives retailers the ability to stock the wiper blades they sell most often, maximizing coverage with minimal inventory.” Continental’s ClearContact commercial-duty wiper blades are designed for a simple and fast installation and come with all the necessary hardware required to install. They feature a reinforced steel frame and precision-cut natural rubber wiper blade to ensure clear vision, edge-to-edge wiping and reliability in all weather conditions. ClearContact commercial-duty blades are available in four designs including flat, five bar, wide saddle and hook. They provide coverage for a wide range of vehicle applications on Class 1 through Class 8 trucks, buses, motorcoaches and Class A, B and C motorhomes. For more information, visit clearcontact.com or contact [email protected]. The post Continental Introduces Floor Display For Commercial-Duty Wipers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The 2,500-mile drive from Babcox Media’s headquarters in Akron, Ohio, to Las Vegas, across the iconic Route 66, is enough to test any vehicle. But the car Babcox Media’s Joe Keene picked to rehab and drive to AAPEX isn’t just any car. It’s a 33-year-old Cadillac Brougham with more than 180,000 miles on the odometer. As Keene says in the first episode of “The Road to AAPEX,” “It’s about the journey,” and the ASE-certified technician had a long road ahead of him as he brought the Cadillac up to a safe standard. With the help of aftermarket suppliers and experts, Keene conquered the leaking transmission, an air suspension that didn’t work, and a complete lack of air conditioning (which could have made a drive through the desert even longer), to name a few challenges. “There were a lot of things about the car that weren’t specified in the ad,” Keene said with a laugh. “It floated, the steering was all over the place, the windows didn’t work–just all kinds of things going on with it. But I didn’t want something easy. I wanted something that was going to be an ‘are you going to make it’ moment every time I get in the car.” Combing through junk yards, testing the counterman’s expertise in hunting down new parts for an old car, and a trip to Ohio Technical College were just a few stops Joe makes to whip the Caddy into shape. Watch the first episode above to see how Joe takes a clunker and, with expert help from the automotive aftermarket, gets it ready to tackle The Road to AAPEX. Vehicle Stats Make/model: Cadillac BroughamYear: 1989Hometown: Arlington, TexasMileage: 180,000+ milesEngine: 307 LV2 Olds V-8Power: 140 hp and 245 lb./ft.Weight: 4,500 lbs.Length: 20 ft.Fuel capacity: 21 gallonsFuel economy: 15 city/22 highwayTires: 225/65R17Transmission: Remanufactured Turbo-Hydramatic 200-4RBrakes: Front vented disc/rear drum brakesAir conditioning: R134a conversionAir bags: None AAPEX will take place Nov. 1-3 in Las Vegas. For more information, visit the AAPEX website. The post Will A 33-Year-Old Cadillac Make It To Las Vegas? appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

ShowMetheParts has announced a new integration with Shopify, which the company says brings together the cataloging of ShowMeTheParts with the power and flexibility of Shopify online stores. “We’ve created a simplified front-end product fitment finder powered by ShowMeTheParts data,” the company stated in an online announcement. Unlike other third-party platforms such as Amazon or eBay, a business’s Shopify store will give them complete control over the customer experience. Users will no longer be selling right next to their competition, and instead will have the full attention of their customers in their own custom branded store. Ready to review the Shopify solution? Find out more here. The post Show Me the Parts Announces Shopify Integration appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

You may notice a different type of show car at the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX) this year. It only has 140 horsepower, with a four-speed automatic transmission, and it clocks in at 20 feet long. This car is not arriving at the show on a trailer. Instead, it’s coming from Akron, Ohio, on its own power. The car and its adventures over the next nine days promise to be a rolling testimonial for the $1.6 trillion global industry that keeps more than 1.3 billion vehicles on the road: the automotive aftermarket. Over the past five months, Babcox Media and 16 sponsors have rehabilitated a 1989 Cadillac Brougham so it can make the epic 2,500-mile journey to be a part of AAPEX 2022. The journey from the used-car lot to the AAPEX show floor is being documented in a six-episode video series, starting on Sept. 19, called “The Road to AAPEX.” The finale will air on Oct. 31 just prior to the AAPEX opening reception. All episodes will be available on the AAPEX Blog as well as the Babcox Media YouTube Channel. “This project car is not about quarter-mile times or chrome,” said Randy Loeser, executive director of content and video services, Babcox Media. “The project is a proof of concept to show how the auto care industry keeps the world moving, no matter what they drive.” The Caddy When Babcox Media’s automotive video producer Joe Keene spotted the listing on Craigslist for a 1989 Cadillac Brougham, he knew it would be the perfect car for the journey to Las Vegas. The Brougham had more than 180,000 miles on the odometer. Unfortunately, it also had a leaking transmission, no A/C and the air suspension was no longer working. “After a quick inspection of the car, it was not as bad as I thought,” said Keene. “But we had to make it reliable, safe and able to handle conditions like desert driving.” The rehabilitation process addressed all mechanical systems on the vehicle. In addition, the body was restored with new parts and paint. The complete process will be shown on the first episode of “The Road to AAPEX.” “Many people think it would be difficult to get parts for a 33-year-old car,” said Keene. “However, all of our sponsors still manufacture and stock parts for this aging vehicle.” Check out the trailer for the Road to AAPEX here! Vital Statistics Make/model: Cadillac Brougham Year: 1989Hometown: Arlington, TexasMileage: 180,000+ miles Engine: 307 LV2 Olds V-8Power: 140 hp and 245 lb./ft.Weight: 4,500 lbs.Length: 20 ft.Fuel capacity: 21 gallonsFuel economy: 15 city/22 highwayTires: 225/65R17Transmission: Remanufactured Turbo-Hydramatic 200-4RBrakes: Front vented disc/rear drum brakesAir conditioning: R134a conversionAirbags: None The Route “The Road to AAPEX” begins in Akron, Ohio, at Babcox Media’s headquarters. Keene will then travel to Joliet, Illinois, to pick up the historic Route 66. Keene will take the “mother road” to visit historic roadside attractions, parts stores and shops in eight states. The trip will cover more than 2,500 miles in nine days. “The Road to AAPEX is an incredible demonstration of the freedom and choice that our industry provides Americans, every single day,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association. “Every part of our supply chain enables this freedom to go anywhere, anytime: from parts manufacturers, to distributors, to retailers and shops. There’s nothing more quintessential than a road trip across America, fueled by these essential businesses. Without the aftermarket, the affordability and convenience the motoring public relies on wouldn’t be possible – and we are proud to be that anchor for the consumer for generations to come.” After reaching the Grand Canyon, Keene will head north to Las Vegas and AAPEX. Following its debut at AAPEX, the Cadillac is being gifted to a U.S. Military veteran through the 800 Charity Cars Organization, with the whole project truly capturing the spirit of the aftermarket from start to finish. “The Road to AAPEX looks different for each member of our great industry, from snowy mountain roads to sandy, beachside highways or the classic Route 66. However, these journeys all have one thing in common – the strength and power of the aftermarket behind each vehicle,” said Paul McCarthy, president and CEO of the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association. “AAPEX is the home for each part, tool, chemical, technology or component needed to safely maintain America’s 280 million vehicles. We are proud of our industry, and to serve the millions of people who rely on the aftermarket on their own ‘roads to … ’ every day. I am glad AAPEX provides us with the opportunity to come together to build the relationships we need to grow our businesses.” The Driver Joe Keene is an automotive video producer for Babcox Media. He has worked in the auto care industry as a technician, service advisor and instructor. He is the host for “Auto Pros on the Road,” which is now in its third season. Keene is an ASE-certified automotive technician and is the chief mechanic for the Cadillac. The Sponsors Transtar IndustriesTranstar Autobody TechnologiesAP EmissionsBCA Bearings Blackburn OEM Wheel SolutionsContinental TireMotoRadMotorcar Parts of America, Inc. (MPA)O’Reilly Auto PartsWix FiltersTRWLitensPennGradeAuto Care AssociationAASARight to Repair AAPEX AAPEX represents the more than $1.6 trillion global automotive aftermarket industry. Historically, the event draws approximately 2,500 exhibiting companies that display innovative products, services and technologies that keep the world’s 1.3 billion vehicles on the road. AAPEX also provides advanced technical and business management training for professionals to maintain excellence and take their businesses to the next level. Industry buyers include automotive service and repair professionals, auto parts retailers, independent warehouse distributors, program groups, service chains, automotive dealers, fleet buyers and engine builders. AAPEX is co-owned by the Auto Care Association and the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA), the light-vehicle aftermarket division of the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA). For more information, visit www.aapexshow.com or e-mail: [email protected]. On social media, follow AAPEX at #AAPEX22. The post The Road To AAPEX Starts Here appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Let’s face it: Competition is fierce in the automotive aftermarket. In major metropolitan areas, it’s not uncommon to see an AutoZone across the street from an O’Reilly Auto Parts that’s next door to an Advance Auto Parts or NAPA Auto Parts store (or some combination of these four chains in close proximity to each other). The Big Four retailers spend large sums of money trying to differentiate themselves through marketing – and they’re pretty darn good at it. Anyone who has listened to a baseball game on the radio likely has at least three jingles committed to memory: “O-O-O-O-Reilly!”“NAPA Know How” “Get in the Zone – AutoZone!” Advance might not have an indelible jingle (yet), but the retailer hit a home run with its “DieHard Is Back” mini-movie/commercial, which aired Oct. 18, 2020, during a FOX NFL telecast. Recently, I stumbled upon an absolute gem of a commercial on YouTube. Posted in 2011, it’s a 30-second spot for NAPA, featuring an expressive counter pro who knows what he’s good at – and what he isn’t good at. You can watch it here: My favorite aspect of the commercial is the counter pro’s facial expressions – he really sells it. And the customer goes from lying on a hospital gurney to grooving in the store in a heartbeat. If you have a favorite parts-related TV commercial or marketing campaign, let us know at [email protected]. The post This Might Be The Best TV Commercial Ever Made appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Transit, a leading auto parts manufacturer and distributor in Eastern Canada, now is distributing the AmeriBRAKES brand, including three lines of premium brake pads designed to original-equipment requirements. The AmeriPRO, AmeriPLATINUM and Severe Duty lines provide superior performance and exceptional brake control, according to the company. With more than 75 years of experience in vehicle-optimized formulas, high quality and consistency of raw materials and rigorous quality control throughout the manufacturing process, AmeriBRAKES ensures that its products deliver reliable braking performances. In addition, AmeriBRAKES reduces its ecological footprint by manufacturing its products in Canada for shorter transport distances, and by complying with the 2025 regulation on the use of copper-free ceramic materials. “With the supply chain disruptions of recent years, we wanted to regain control over lead times by sourcing locally to better protect our customers’ sales,” explained Stephan Guay, president of Transit Inc. “We chose AmeriBRAKES products because they are renowned for their high quality, which we were able to confirm with internal testing. I am confident that our customers will appreciate these premium brake pads.” The post Transit Distributes 3 Premium AmeriBRAKES Lines appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lately, if you read the news or follow social media, it might seem as though the entire world is just itching for a fight. The most popular of these articles and videos highlight people behaving badly in all sorts of situations. From the war in Ukraine to our own country’s social and political divisions, right down to daily interactions between customers and staff, there is a distinctly “uncivil war” being waged all around us every day. People are fed up with a lot of things right now, and these same folks will be walking through your front door sooner than later. Dealing with angry customers is never fun or easy, but you can get through these encounters by de-escalating the situation and focusing on the common goal of getting the customer what they really need. When conversation becomes conflict, the first thing we need to remember is to stay calm. Even when the customer comes at you with a bad attitude, your own needs to remain in check. Some people thrive on conflict, bullying others to get their way, or even to feel superiority over others. “Ken” and “Karen,” full of themselves and emboldened by the media coverage of people mistreating workers, actually want you to get down in the mud with them. Someone (but most likely not Mark Twain) once said, “Never argue with a fool. You won’t change his mind, and bystanders can’t tell which of you is the fool.” Instead of getting drawn into a shouting match (and giving them control of the situation), redirect the conversation back toward getting to the root cause of their complaint. Let them tell their story (they do love to hear themselves talk), but keep them on track. Don’t interrupt them, and be an active listener. If their complaints stray from the actual issue, asking relevant questions can help focus them back on the problem you’re trying to solve with them. It also shows that you’re interested in them and their concerns. Don’t play the “blame game.” As you work through the issue at hand, it will probably become clear where the misunderstanding or fault lies. Being accusatory toward the customer will only widen the gap you’re trying to close, and blaming a store policy (or another employee) only creates mistrust in your company and staff. If the problem is a result of your mistake, admit your error, and work toward correcting the issue to the satisfaction of the customer and your company. If the situation is the result of the customer’s error, be compassionate in your efforts to explain what you suspect went wrong with the previous situation. Nobody likes to be made to feel stupid, so avoid negative “YOU” statements. “YOU gave me the wrong information” or “YOU installed the part incorrectly” may be completely accurate statements, but they don’t need to be phrased this way. Sometimes, (politely) repeating the situation in the customer’s own words will be enough to make their error clear to them, while establishing that you are both in agreement. Finally, make every reasonable effort to fix the issue. If they simply wanted to vent or complain, they’ve done so, and you’ve made the best of the situation, calmly and quietly so as not to cause a scene. If they need to return or exchange eligible merchandise, process these transactions politely and efficiently. If they still require additional advice, parts or services, do your best to address these needs. If you have the knowledge and authority to resolve the problem, DO IT! The post Kens And Karens At The Parts Counter appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In November 2020, Massachusetts voters overwhelmingly approved an update to the state’s landmark Right to Repair law, requiring automakers to provide a platform that enables motorists to access and control their vehicles’ telematics data. While the passage of Ballot Question 1 was a huge win for the automotive aftermarket, it’s unclear when the provisions of the legislation will see the light of day. After voters approved the ballot measure by a 75% to 25% margin, a coalition of automakers – the Alliance for Automotive Innovation – filed a lawsuit seeking to overturn the ballot question based on a litany of allegations, including cybersecurity concerns; insufficient time to comply with the new data-access requirements; and their contention that the ballot initiative is preempted by federal law. Over the past two years, the automakers have managed to keep the case tied up in court. Attorney General Maura Healey has idled the legislation until the lawsuit is resolved. Recently, it was reported that the Alliance for Automotive Innovation and the state attorney general’s office have submitted scheduling proposals for further proceedings in the litigation. In its proposal, the Alliance for Automotive Innovation states: “While it remains the plaintiff’s position that the OEMs cannot comply with the plain language of the Data Access Law without violating their safety obligations under the Vehicle Safety Act, plaintiff understood the court to request a more robust discussion of the statutory interpretation issues that hopefully could narrow areas of disagreement. We are not off to an encouraging start. Worse, the attorney general couples her reiterated interpretations with an accelerated schedule that will ensure this endeavor fails. The attorney general’s proposed schedule simply does not allow time for a deeper dive on these interpretation questions.” The alliance proposed being given until Sept. 22 to review and reply to the AG’s proposal with the hopes of conferring and submitting a single clarified document on or before Oct. 14. “It’s been nearly two years since the people of Massachusetts voiced their strong desire for more choice and competition when it comes to auto repairs,” Justin Rzepka, executive director of the CAR Coalition, said in response to the latest activity in the case. “As this case continues to drag on, Congress cannot wait – it must act on federal Right to Repair solutions, like the REPAIR and SMART Acts, to restore choice and empower businesses to service car owners that want options.” Meanwhile, in Washington, D.C., the Committee on Small Business Subcommittee on Underserved, Agricultural, and Rural Business Development will hold a hearing on Right to Repair at 10 a.m. EST on Wed., Sept. 14. Witnesses include the executive director of the Repair Association, which endorsed the SMART Act earlier this year, along with representatives from a New Hampshire-based tech shop and Maine family farm. The post Right To Repair: Automakers Ask For More Time In Massachusetts appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

It’s no secret that the heart of an electric vehicle is its high-voltage (HV) battery. There are a number of electrical circuits and protection devices found within an HV battery assembly. These circuits work in conjunction with the vehicle’s battery-management system (BMS) to ensure safety and battery longevity. It’s not uncommon to have several hundred lithium cells in an EV and more than 25 cells in a hybrid vehicle. These cells must be properly balanced to one another, while their temperature and the packs’ overall voltage and amperage must be closely monitored by the BMS. Often, when a battery has been properly tested and is found to be bad, a remanufactured battery may be the best option due to the price. Typically, remanufactured batteries include a number of improvements, such as nickel-plated terminals (to avoid corrosion); optimized cell mounting to eliminate the risk of case cracking due to vibrations; individual cell testing and balancing of the pack; and other comprehensive testing to ensure long life. For example, Dorman’s remanufactured hybrid battery pack for the 2004-2009 Toyota Prius features “nickel-plated bus bars and corrosion-resistant terminals for increased reliability,” according to the Dorman website, while “proprietary software uses [a] multi-dimensional grading process to select battery cells that will perform ideally together.” The battery packs are subjected to “multiple stringent validation gateways, including on-vehicle tests using EPA performance standards,” according to the company. Remanufactured batteries should be an attractive option for your customers – especially those who own hybrid vehicles, as they’re likely seeking a cost-effective solution. Dorman’s remanufactured hybrid battery packs come with a two-year warranty, according to a recent sales flyer, compared to the eight- to 10-year warranty for most OE batteries. Generally speaking, however, remanufactured batteries should have the same life expectancy as a new one. It’s important to note that when a remanufactured battery is sent to the warehouse, there’s an expiration tag applied to the outside of the shipping container. Make sure you’re not installing a battery that’s due to return to the manufacturer to receive an updated charge and testing procedure. A word about handling HV batteries, whether they’re new or remanufactured: These batteries are heavy! They’re packaged in clamshell cases to minimize the risk of electrical shock. Because of their weight, HV batteries should be stored low to the ground, and counter pros (and customers) should take great care when lifting them, to avoid injury. Let’s discuss a few add-on sales opportunities. I firmly believe that all shops working on electric vehicles need high-voltage gloves, insulated handtool sets and a Level 2 charger. Remember, all EVs use electrons the entire time they’re in a shop – as opposed to ICE vehicles, which only use gasoline when the engine is running. Advanced diagnostic tools represent another great sales opportunity. When it comes to diagnosing EVs and their batteries, the current level of diagnostics only allows a technician to see what’s transmitted over the data bus lines of communication. This is because a traditional diagnostic scan tool gets its information from the OBD II connector located under the dash. Autel has addressed this challenge with its MaxiSYS MS909EV platform. With the MaxiSys MS909EV system, technicians can analyze an EV battery by plugging into the OBD II port or connecting directly to the battery. By connecting to the BMS, technicians now have full insight into battery state of health and individual battery-cell state of charge; access to all the thermistors; and visibility into the “handshake” that occurs between a charger and the vehicle. The MS909EV screen displays detailed graphics and in-depth connection guidance to provide safe and secure testing, as well as comprehensive diagrams of high-voltage system blocks, components and sockets. In addition to providing rapid analysis of high-voltage systems in electric and hybrid vehicles, the MS909EV’s intelligent diagnostic capabilities extend to U.S., European and Asian gasoline and diesel vehicles. The post High-Voltage Batteries: The Heart Of Electric Vehicles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FCS Automotive announced the release of 33 new part numbers, including 13 complete strut assemblies and 20 bare shock and strut assemblies. All of these units are in stock and ready to ship. “FCS remains committed to be first to market with new numbers, while providing the most comprehensive market coverage in North America – well-beyond our nearest competitor,” the company said in a news release. “Many of these numbers are not available from the competition.” The new numbers account for more than 10 million vehicles on the road today in the United States and Canada. Popular applications include the Audi A3, BMW X3, Cadillac XT5, Chevrolet Corvette, Honda CR-V, Jeep Renegade, Land Rover, Lexus ES300, Nissan Altima, Toyota Avalon and more. FCS will be displaying at the upcoming AAPEX Show in Las Vegas at Booth A5064. The FCS management team will be in attendance to answer any questions and highlight the company’s products and programs. As a global supplier in more than 40 countries, FCS products are produced to meet strict OE-quality processes backed by extensive in-house testing and IATF16949 and ISO14001 certifications. For more information about FCS products, contact FCS at 866-708-4554 or visit www.fcsautoparts.com. The post FCS Introduces 33 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Tendeco Sales Inc. has hired Scott Howat as national sales manager, responsible for aftermarket sales in North America for Litens Aftermarket. Prior to joining the Litens Aftermarket team, for three decades Howat has made an impact across sales, marketing and product management for the Auto Care Association, Affinia Group, Dana, Echlin and Gates Corp. Howat holds a Master Automotive Aftermarket Professional (MAAP) designation from the University of the Aftermarket and has served in leadership positions throughout the industry, including the Automotive Communications Council and Auto Care Association Marketing and Communications Committee. He was past chairman of the Auto Care Association Events Committee. In addition, he is a past chairman of the AASA Marketing Executives Council, and past member of the MEMA Government Affairs Committee and Brand Protection Council. “We are thrilled to have an experienced leader like Scott to head our North American Aftermarket efforts as we expand the reach of the Litens brand,” said John Lussier, president of Tendeco Sales Inc. “His broad knowledge of the aftermarket ecosystem will support our strategic initiatives and better serve the needs of our Litens customers.” The post Tendeco Hires Scott Howat As National Sales Manager appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper, in collaboration with the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, are pleased to announce 14 winners of their 2022 scholarship competition. The recipients, picked from a competitive pool of student applicants from across North America, will be recognized as they work toward their degrees. This year’s scholarship recipients, and their respective warehouse distributor include: Aaron Caton – Harrodsburg, Kentucky; Hahn AutomotiveAl Scrivner – O’Fallon, Illinois; All CarBrieanne Schmidt – Calgary; Central Auto PartsChristian Pfeiffer – Jackson, Michigan; Auto-Wares Group of CompaniesEmily Seay – Marianna, Florida; Parts Warehouse Inc.Jesse Banks – Calgary; Central Auto PartsJulie West – Stanton, Michigan; Auto-Wares Group of CompaniesKathy Hinson – Climax, Florida; Parts Warehouse Inc.Nicholas Caton – Harrodsburg, Kentucky; Hahn AutomotiveSamantha Scott – Rockford, Michigan; Auto-Wares Group of CompaniesTammy Gracie – Red Deer, Alberta; Central Auto PartsTaya Thoendal – Winnipeg; Piston RingTristan Norris – Calgary; Central Auto PartsZackery Beshears – Greenwood, Arkansas; Parts Warehouse Inc. “We continue to take pride in the outstanding students representing the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper brands,” said Nikki Paschall, director of communications and engagement for Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper. “We encourage lifelong learning and congratulate this year’s students for investing in themselves. We are honored to support in this way.” Through their affiliation with Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper, eligible candidates filled out a comprehensive application that included essay prompts, short answers, letters of recommendation, transcript requirements and more. A University of the Aftermarket Foundation panel of judges reviewed and ranked the applicants based on their merits. Candidates also were required to show they were employees or children of employees of an Auto Value, Bumper to Bumper or Confidence Plus location. Since the Alliance scholarship program was developed in 2001, it has awarded almost $550,000 in scholarships to deserving students. The annual program encourages continuing education within the membership and supports the next workforce generation in achieving their educational goals. For more information about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, please visit https://uofa-foundation.org/. For more information on the Auto Value and Bumper to Bumper scholarship program, visit www.autovalue.com or www.bumpertobumper.com. The post Auto Value, Bumper To Bumper, Award $25,000 In Scholarships appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Photo caption, left to right: Bill Long, CEO, Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association; Charley Johnson, CEO, OptiCat LLC.; and Marc Blackman, CEO, Gold Eagle, Co., and chairman, MEMA board of directors. The Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) presented the Triangle Award to OptiCat CEO Charley Johnson on Sept. 6 at his office in Maryland. “For more than 45 years, the Triangle Award has been given periodically to that person or persons, or organization, whom MEMA and our divisions choose to honor for selfless contribution to the vehicle supplier industry,” MEMA President and CEO Bill Long said. “Charley’s decades of exceptional leadership and dedication to the supplier industry embody the spirit of the Triangle Award. “[Charley] has never missed an opportunity to promote, protect and advance the automotive industry, the automotive aftermarket and pushback against government overreach. Perhaps his most lasting contribution is the work he has done working quietly behind the scenes, to find paths of collaboration and common ground, leading to a win-win for industry stakeholders and businesses.” The prestige of the Triangle Award arises from its selective process. From its inception, the Triangle Award was not intended as an annual award. The award is only presented when truly deserving candidates are found – those who have worked tirelessly, behind the scenes, out of the spotlight and whose contributions have advanced the supplier industry. Past recipients of the MEMA Triangle Award include the late Joseph M. Magliochetti of Dana Corp.; Tom Gallagher of Genuine Parts Co.; Mort Schwartz of Masco Tech Inc.; John M. Riess (then of The Gates Rubber Co.); the late Larry McCurdy (then of Moog Automotive); and Jack Reilly (then of Tenneco Automotive). Most recently, MEMA presented the Triangle Award to Mike Mansuetti of Bosch; Jim Kamsickas of DANA; and Don Walker of Magna. A complete list of past recipients can be found here. The post MEMA Presents Triangle Award To Charley Johnson appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

AMSOIL is launching two new synthetic lubricants for ATV/UTV applications, “providing riders with high-performance upgrades from OEM-branded oils,” the company announced. AMSOIL synthetic ATV/UTV motor oil now is available in 10W-30 and 5W-40 viscosities, joining existing 10W-40 and 5W-50 viscosities to round out the product line. AMSOIL synthetic ATV/UTV motor oil is designed to withstand the severe operating conditions found in modern ATV/UTV applications. It provides outstanding protection while racing, hauling, plowing or navigating tough terrain,” according to the company. “Thanks to its robust all-season synthetic formula, AMSOIL ATV/UTV oil remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures for exceptional protection during cold starts, and resists thinning and mechanical shear in extreme heat to protect ATV/UTV engines in hard-working or desert conditions,” AMSOIL added. AMSOIL synthetic ATV/UTV motor oil helps fight rust and corrosion to prolong equipment life. The wet-clutch-compatible oil is formulated without friction modifiers to promote smooth shifting and positive clutch engagement, allowing riders to confidently and safely push their machines to the limit. “We designed the ATV/UTV family of lubricants from the ground up to address the unique demands of these off-road machines,” said Len Groom, AMSOIL senior market manager – powersports. “Whether they’re used for work or play, ATVs and UTVs are frequently pushed to the limit, generating high heat that can challenge lubricants’ ability to maintain adequate protection. AMSOIL Synthetic ATV/UTV Motor Oil is designed to protect against the damaging effects of extreme heat, and we’re excited to expand the line to offer upgraded AMSOIL protection to more ATV/UTV makes and models.” AMSOIL 10W-30 synthetic ATV/UTV motor oil is recommended for use in applications that require a 10W-30 oil, including those made by Honda. AMSOIL 5W-40 synthetic ATV/UTV motor oil is recommended for use in applications that require a 5W-40 oil, including those made by Can-Am and Kawasaki. AMSOIL synthetic ATV/UTV motor oil is Warranty Secure and will not void ATV or UTV warranties. The post AMSOIL Adds Synthetic 10W-30, 5W-40 Products To ATV/UTV Line appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has added a new line of filtration products to its fast-growing aftermarket portfolio. The new line features a wide range of OE-quality oil, fuel, air and cabin filters for applications on domestic and import cars, vans, SUVs and light trucks. “Built to ensure safe engine operation and clean air in the vehicle interior, our premium OE-quality filters are designed to deliver reliable protection against dirt, abrasion, ultrafine particles and moisture for injection systems, engines and passengers,” said Laura Huerst, Continental product manager. “These world-class filters are produced to the same quality and performance standards we apply to our original-equipment parts.” Continental premium oil filters are manufactured using the most advanced technologies and innovative filter media available to ensure the best engine performance and minimum fuel consumption, according to the company. This is especially important as the industry’s use of new “long-life” oils and longer service intervals continue to increase. The filters are offered in spin-on and immersion designs. Continental air filters help ensure a constant air supply to the combustion chamber by efficiently filtering out impurities and dirt particles that can clog injectors, increase engine wear and affect fuel consumption. They are designed to deliver superior efficiency and feature a high dirt-particle-absorption capacity, according to Continental. Continental cabin filters feature a pollen and active carbon formulation that provides the best possible atmosphere and comfort in the vehicle interior, even under adverse weather conditions. The cabin filters offer a very high level of efficiency and microbiological decomposition, as well as an excellent resistance to moisture. The pollen filters are made of nonwoven material that can capture more than 90% of particles with a diameter of over 2 μm. The nonwoven activated carbon filters can capture particles of 0.01 to 2 μm and effectively prevent gas, bacteria, fungi and odors from entering the vehicle’s interior, according to the company. Continental gasoline fuel filters employ cutting-edge technology to meet the demands of modern high-performance fuel injection systems. The filters are designed to retain impurities less than a micrometer and also separate water from fuel to help prevent power loss and potential engine damage. For more information, visit continentalaftermarket.com or contact [email protected]. The post Continental Launches Full Line Of OE-Quality Oil, Fuel, Air, Cabin Filters appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

If there’s one thing that I know about myself it’s this: I can’t help but modify any vehicles I own. It’s not that I’m unhappy with the vehicles I buy. It’s just that in my eyes, there’s always room for improvement. Almost without fail, the first thing I’ll upgrade is lighting. In my opinion, halogen headlights shouldn’t still be around in 2022. Nighttime visibility is often overlooked, but it’s critical to occupant safety. The more your headlights can light up the road ahead, the more likely you’ll be able to see obstacles in your path. Goodbye HID, Hello LED! High-intensity discharge (HID) lighting, also known as xenon, was mostly seen in luxury vehicles, but it has started to trickle down into other makes and models over the years. HID bulbs are efficient, produce a high-quality light pattern and can be up to 300% brighter than traditional halogen bulbs. HID bulbs work by igniting an electrical discharge inside a gas chamber. There’s no filament inside an HID bulb, so they should last longer than a halogen bulb. But they’re not without a few downsides. They’re not cheap; they require ballasts to stabilize the electrical discharge; they can be difficult to diagnose if a bulb stops working; and they lose performance as they age, becoming dimmer over time. So, what’s the alternative? Light-emitting diode (LED) lighting has surged in popularity in the past few years, both in OE vehicles and the aftermarket. LEDs are an easy upgrade over halogen and HID lighting systems. They consist of two electrodes (an anode and a cathode). Light is produced when an electrical current passes through the semiconductive materials inside (silicon or selenium). LED Advantages LEDs are extremely energy-efficient, requiring significantly less energy than halogen or HID bulbs. The next major advantage would be the sheer variety that can be found in aftermarket LED lighting. Whether you’re looking for LEDs to install in place of halogen bulbs, complete headlight housings with integrated-LED beams or standalone LED housings for off-road visibility, the possibilities seem to be limitless! But in my eyes, their biggest advantage is in their service life. LEDs can offer an extremely long lifespan, so they won’t need to be replaced nearly as often. This can be especially beneficial in applications where the headlight bulbs are very difficult to reach. My 1998 Mercedes E320 was TERRIBLE to work on, especially when I needed to replace bulbs. And let’s face it: Engine bays aren’t getting any more spacious these days, and modern vehicles aren’t getting any easier to work on. LED Disadvantages If you’re looking at replacement LED bulbs, oftentimes they’re not exactly what I would call “compact.” In many cases, you’ll find big, bulky cooling fans built into the back side of the bulb, and these can be difficult to install inside of some headlight housings without interfering with the wiring or protective cap. The other downside would be their cost. The upfront costs tend to be more than the alternatives, but LEDs can offer a better return on that investment thanks to their superior service life. You also might find that the LEDs simply don’t seem to perform very well in your factory-equipped headlight housings. This is due to design. The reflector and lens inside the headlight assembly were designed to work with halogen bulbs, not an LED. This can increase the headlight glare to oncoming traffic, and reduce the overall lighting performance. This leads us to the final and maybe the most significant disadvantage on our list: their questionable legality. That’s right, it’s technically illegal to install HID or LED lighting inside your factory headlight housing. Are They Really Illegal? Here in the United States, the Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS) are used to regulate the design, construction, performance and durability requirements for motor vehicles on our roads. These regulations specify that your main forward illumination (a.k.a. headlights) must remain as they were fitted from the factory. So, if your vehicle had halogen headlights when it was new, technically it’s illegal to upgrade to LED or HID. However, they can be used in any of the unregulated auxiliary lights including fog lights, side markers, brake lights and so on. There also is a chance that your local, county or state government may consider these modifications to be illegal. For instance, here in Ohio we are permitted no more than five front-facing lights, and no high-intensity beam may strike the roadway 75 feet from the vehicle. Off-road lighting bars may not be illuminated on public roads in Kentucky, Montana, North Carolina and Wyoming, just to name a few. Our advice would be this: Avoid making any changes to the factory headlights. If your customers install off-road lighting, they should only use it off-road. If they want to upgrade their interior bulbs with brighter, whiter LEDs, more power to them. As a counter professional, make sure you’re familiar with the local ordinances and regulations regarding LED lighting, and use your best judgment. The post LED Lighting appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

As the automotive industry grapples with ongoing inventory shortages, consumers continue their shift to used vehicles. According to Experian’s “State of the Automotive Finance Market Report: Q2 2022,” 61.78% of all vehicle financing was for used vehicles, up from 58.48% in Q2 2021. The shift to used vehicles was present across all credit tiers, though near-prime saw the largest increase, going from 72.3% in Q2 2021 to 77.69% in Q2 2022. Subprime consumers saw the percentage of used-vehicle loans grow from 86.28% in Q2 2021 to 89.29% in Q2 2022, while prime consumers saw growth from 61.02% to 63.59% in the same time frame, according to Experian. “Between the inventory shortage and rising vehicle costs, consumers are looking to make the most cost-effective decision, which is often a used vehicle,” said Melinda Zabritski, Experian’s senior director of automotive financial solutions. “The benefit of higher vehicle values is that consumers are able to get more for their trade-ins, which can help offset the increased cost of their next vehicle.” The shift to used comes amid rising average vehicle-loan amounts and monthly payments for both new and used vehicles. The average new-vehicle loan amount increased 13.21% year-over-year to reach $40,290 in Q2 2022, with a monthly payment of $667 compared to $582 in Q2 2021. Average used-vehicle loan amounts saw a sharper increase of 18.66% year-over-year, clocking in at $28,534, with an average monthly payment of $515, an increase from $440 in Q2 2021. As consumers financed more used vehicles, credit unions experienced significant growth. Credit unions saw a jump in overall market share, reaching 25.81% in Q1 2022, up from 18.32% in Q1 2021, coming in second only to banks (27.94%) and surpassing captive lenders (22.64%), according to Experian. Credit unions achieved growth in both new- and used-vehicle financing, though the growth was more pronounced in the used-vehicle space. Though captives still led new-vehicle financing at 46.14% in Q2 2021, credit unions increased to 21.35%, up from 11.15% last year. For used-vehicle financing, credit unions comprised 28.62% in Q1 2022, up from 23.49% in Q1 2021. The growth places credit unions just behind banks, which held 29.19% of used-vehicle financing in Q1 2022. “With the market dynamics we’re seeing right now, the shift in lender market share makes sense, as credit unions often offer two things that consumers are seeking: lower interest rates and longer terms,” Zabritski continued. “This helps to manage their monthly payment, which is often what consumers prioritize when looking at financing options. Understanding these trends will ensure lenders and dealers can help consumers make the most informed decisions when purchasing a vehicle.” Additional findings for Q2 2022: Leasing decreased to 19.65% of new vehicles in Q2 2022, down from 27.82% in Q2 2021.The market continues to move more prime with prime (45.74%) and super prime (19.57%) comprising more than 63% of all originations in Q2 2022.SUVs surpassed 60% of total financing in Q2 2022 at 60.43%, up from 58.57% in Q2 2021.The average difference between a new-vehicle loan and lease payment was $127 in Q2 2022.The average loan term for new-vehicle loans remained flat going from 69.45 to 69.46 months from Q2 2021 to Q2 2022; average used-vehicle loan terms grew from 66.14 months to 68.01 months, year-over-year. To learn more, watch the entire “State of the Automotive Finance Market: Q2 2022” webinar. The post Inventory Shortages Keep Pushing Consumers To Used Vehicles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Since the beginning of the year, drivers of the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y all over the world have reported an irritating squeaking sound. In response, MEYLE AG is unveiling a solution at Automechanika 2022: the new MEYLE HD control arm for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. A MEYLE development team identified the problem and developed an improved spare part that reliably restores peace and quiet, according to the company. Developed from the ground up, the new control arm for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y vehicles will be presented to the general public for the first time at Automechanika in Hall 4, Stand D41, from Sept. 13-17. The high-quality product will be available to Tesla drivers and workshops around the globe from early 2023. MEYLE offers a technically redeveloped solution that ensures Tesla’s typical driving fun – without the irritating squeaking. Another benefit: Thanks to collaboration with ClimatePartner, the MEYLE part is climate-neutral. “Many everyday objects can begin to squeak after a certain period of time,” said Stefan Bachmann, head of steering & suspension at MEYLE. “But we weren’t expecting this to happen with the Tesla. We’re connected with car enthusiasts around the world and always have our finger on the pulse of the latest trends and acute issues. Particularly when it comes to sensitive suspension technology, we immediately set out in search of a potential solution. Because we’re driven by principle, we wanted to get to the bottom of this strange squeaking sound straightaway.” After numerous evaluations, the development team determined that the Tesla control arm had been designed with insufficient moisture protection. Rain drains directly from the windscreen onto the control arm and penetrates the ball joint, which ultimately leads to the unwelcome, irritating squeaking sound and, in rare cases, can compromise steering precision. High performance potential and the increased weight typical of electric vehicles can take a heavy toll on the suspension components, subjecting the control arm to enormous stress. Even the bushings can wear sooner under this extreme strain. It’s usually the squeaking sound coming from the upper control arm on the front axle that warns drivers of the damage. Others report a rattling sound coming from the suspension. “Being able to hold the first prototype of a future HD part in our hand after having identified a weakness, looked into the causes and performed development work and countless tests is a special moment for us every time – especially for a premium car like a Tesla,” Bachmann said. “After all, moments like these are precisely why we do our best every day.” When it came to re-engineering the MEYLE HD control arm for the Tesla, four key changes resulted in success: A sturdy control-arm body made from high-strength, forged aluminum improves rigidity and reduces weight compared to the original, which is made from a combination of steel and plastic. Optimized with the finite-element method (FEM), the design also ensures high safety reserves with a low net weight.The design of the ball joint forgoes the use of crimping, thus eliminating water penetration, preventing standing water and ensuring absolute tightness. The issue of water penetrating the original Tesla control arm is therefore eliminated. The ball joint itself has a larger diameter than the original part and can distribute forces across a bigger surface, which is essential for a durable spare part, considering the large and frequent loads the high-performance vehicles are exposed to.The bushings also have been optimized, which also increases service life. Intensive development goes into each and every MEYLE HD part, which is why the spare-parts specialist provides a four-year guarantee for the HD control arm for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, just as it does for all its other HD parts. With its HD range, MEYLE has been launching its own technically enhanced spare parts for 20 years. The company aims to be climate-neutral by 2030. The HD control arm for Tesla is part of a climate-neutral portfolio, which MEYLE will be presenting at Automechanika. The post MEYLE Engineers Solve Tesla’s Squeaking Problem appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Steve Handschuh, a highly respected automotive aftermarket veteran who joined the Motor & Equipment Manufacturers Association (MEMA) in 2006, died on Aug. 22. A native of Baltimore, Handschuh joined MEMA as president and chief operating officer of MEMA’s Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) division and was named president and CEO of MEMA in 2013. Handschuh retired in December 2018. An aftermarket veteran of more than 40 years, Handschuh is known for his service to NAPA Auto Parts/Genuine Parts Co. for 18 years, including serving as NAPA president from 1998 to 2004. Handschuh later served as senior vice president, commercial, at AutoZone. He began his career as an outside salesman for Mighty Auto Parts, where he rose to vice president of sales and marketing. “MEMA and our industry have lost a great one,” said Bill Long, MEMA president and CEO. “Steve was a dynamic leader, consummate professional and friend to all who worked with and for him at MEMA, and he left a tremendous legacy from his leadership. He will be mourned by the entire MEMA family, both employees and membership. “Steve was a man of integrity and always spoke highly of his wife, Joann, and children, making them his top priority. He was deeply involved in serving in his local Jehovah Witness Kingdom Hall and helping its young community. As a son of Charm City, Steve was a lifelong Orioles fan. Steve was also passionate about music and was undoubtably a superfan of The Beatles.” In 2018, Handschuh received the MEMA Triangle Award – the organization’s highest honor – for his vision, passion and dedication to the interests of the automotive industry. The post MEMA Mourns Passing Of Aftermarket Veteran Steve Handschuh appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

An Advance Auto Parts manager is a TikTok sensation after refusing to accept a return of an open bottle of windshield-washer fluid. “The seal is cracked, it’s open, I can’t return it,” the manager says in a self-recorded video posted to TikTok on July 24. Incredulous, the customer replies that he matched it to other bottles in the store and “it still has the same amount.” “I’m sorry sir, but when you get a bottle and you crack the seal and you open it and you take this plastic off, that means it is not returnable,” the manager says. “I don’t know if you used it. You could’ve poured Gatorade in there.” With as much as $7.49 on the line, the man asserts that he “never had any issues with O’Reillys or AutoZone.” He then demands to speak to the manager. When the customer learns that the sales associate is the manager, he asks if he can speak to a district manager. “His number is on the front door,” the manager replies. “And on your way out, you can read the return policy.” After stating that the interaction was “completely unprofessional,” the customer offers some unsolicited advice for the manager who dared to uphold the store’s return policy. As of Tuesday, Sept. 6, the video has amassed 1.1 million views, 3,081 comments and more than 233,000 likes. How do you think the manager handled the situation? Watch below and let us know! The post Advance Auto Parts Manager Handles ‘Male Karen,’ Goes Viral appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

What was wrong with universal joints anyhow? After all, they worked fine for years, and they still do! This is true, and U-joints can handle a lot of torque, but they do have a downside in the nature of their operating characteristics. Here are the basics: U-joints are located on the ends of a driveshaft, mounted between the driveshaft and a front and rear yoke. The front yoke attaches to the transmission and the rear yoke attaches to the rear differential. As the engine moves from the effects of torque and as the suspension of a vehicle travels up and down, the angle of the driveshaft changes. A U-joint does two things. First, it transfers the motion between the yoke(s) and driveshaft; and second, it does this at different angles, allowing for driveline movement. Here’s where the fun begins. When a yoke and the driveshaft are in perfect alignment, the velocity from one is transferred to the other at the same rate. However, when there’s an angle between the two, the velocity of the driven member fluctuates continuously during rotation. It can be hard to visualize, but the reason this happens is that as the angle of the U-joint changes, the two halves of the U-joint cross are forced to rotate on a different axis. The drive axis remains at a constant velocity, and both ends of the U-joint cross rotate in the same consistent circular path. The driven axis, however, rotates in a path that causes the distance of travel at the outer ends of the U-joint cross to increase or decrease in relation to the consistent points of the drive axis. This effect results in the continuous fluctuation of velocity between the input and output sides. While the input remains at a consistent speed, the output speeds up and slows down as the points of the driven axis continuously alter between a long and short path of travel. So, why don’t we feel that on a vehicle with a traditional driveshaft? Because there are two U-joints, and the fluctuation on each end balances out, effectively allowing the driveshaft to provide a consistent output speed to the rear differential. The angle of the two joints must be the same, however, and it doesn’t take much wear in one for the angles to differ, and subsequently cause a vibration. U-joints are known for their propensity to cause vibration, and the other disadvantage they have is the greater the angle of the U-joint, the greater the fluctuation in velocity. Anything over 30 degrees and the fluctuation dramatically increases. Have you ever noticed how jittery an old four-wheel-drive truck feels in the front when the hubs are locked and you turn a corner? Now you know why. You may have heard of a Double-Cardan U-joint. It’s basically two joints side-by-side with a common link-yoke in between. This is one of the original concepts for a true constant-velocity (CV) joint, and they’re often referred to as this. The advantage they have is they offer smoother operation at greater angles, and they’re common on four-wheel-drive trucks, and a common upgrade for lifted trucks where the driveshaft angle is altered considerably. The drawback to a Double-Cardan joint is they’re bulky, and they still can suffer from limitations due to operating angle. True CV joints as we know them today have been around since the early 20th century, but the popularity of the front-wheel-drive (FWD) vehicle is what made them a household name. Today’s CV joints are a radical departure from anything resembling a U-joint, and not only do CV joints transfer power without speed fluctuation, but they also can operate at angles up to and exceeding 50 degrees, depending on the joint. Since the drive wheels on a front-wheel-drive vehicle also steer, the ability for this increased operating angle is what makes the CV joint so beneficial for FWD. A front-wheel-drive vehicle has two CV shafts – one on each side – and each shaft features an outboard and inboard joint. The outboard joints are considered fixed joints, meaning they don’t offer in and out movement. It’s their ability to operate at the increased angles for steering that’s important. The inboard joints are considered plunge joints, meaning they offer a wide range of inner and outer directional movement in order to make up for length differences as the suspension travels up and down. Types of CV Joints You’ll see two types of CV joints. One is the Rzeppa design, which features steel balls trapped in a cage and riding on an inner and outer race. The tri-pod design is the second, which features three roller bearings that ride in a race or cage, sometimes referred to as a tulip assembly. Both types of joints can be found in either a fixed or plunging design for outboard or inboard use, but the Rzeppa design has proven more popular as an outboard joint. The Rzeppa works well as an inboard joint too, but the tri-pod design gets the nod for the most effective operation as a plunge joint. The CV shafts themselves can differ in length from side to side, and in early FWD development, torque steer – the vehicle pulling in one direction or the other during acceleration – was sometimes a result of this difference. Different diameter shafts as well as hollow versus solid became part of the design aspects to combat this problem. Drivetrain mounting and torque control have advanced considerably since the early days of FWD, and torque steer rarely is a problem. Even though the FWD vehicle put the true CV joint on the map, due to their overall advantages, CV shafts now are utilized front and rear, and it’s not uncommon to see driveshafts that feature CV joints instead of U-joints. U-joints aren’t forgotten, however, due to their ability to handle high torque, and they work well in abusive environments that may not be so friendly to the boot on a CV joint (such as the exposed location of a driveshaft under a truck). CV joints are packed with a specially formulated grease, and a rubber boot is sealed to both the CV shaft and the joint, to keep the grease in place. When a boot is torn or begins to leak, the grease goes away, and dirt gets inside. CV joints typically need no service until this happens. There was a time when the most common service for a bad boot was to remove the CV joint, take it apart, clean it, repack it and install a new boot. Generally, this was routine. However, from time to time you could experience a nightmare. Much of the reason we replaced the boots and serviced the joints in this manner was due to the high cost of a replacement joint or a complete shaft. Even with the additional labor, it was far more cost-effective to replace just the boot. Over time, with advancements in manufacturing and the availability of supplies, the cost of complete CV shafts went down, and it simply made more sense to replace them as a complete unit, not to mention it makes things easier for technicians. Selling Tips The most important part of selling a new CV shaft is making sure it’s the correct one. You should compare shaft length, the size of the CV joints themselves, and make sure it has an ABS tone ring installed if the vehicle is equipped with an anti-lock braking system. Some early CV joints had the tone ring cast into them, but that design was quickly abandoned for a press-fit tone ring. If your customer doesn’t yet have the original shaft out, be sure and make these recommendations to them so they ensure the shaft is correct prior to installation. Installing a CV shaft is routine for professional technicians, but DIYers likely will have questions. One of the most important factors is torque of the fastener that secures the outer CV joint in the hub. If they don’t adhere to the factory procedure and don’t follow the correct torque specification, damage can and will occur to the wheel bearing. Some CV-shaft applications come with an ABS tone ring installed, regardless of whether or not the vehicle is equipped with ABS. If not, in most cases, the ring has no consequence. However, in the rare situation where it rubs or contacts something, the rings can be removed easily. The tricky part of CV-shaft service is there are some you can have out in a few minutes without even removing a wheel, and others that may take an hour or longer. The majority of them require some portion of the suspension to be separated, so the outer joint can be pulled out of the wheel bearing, then the entire shaft pulled outward as it’s removed from the transaxle. It’s fair warning that this is not always easy and might require specialized tools. As long as you convey that to the customer, they can’t say you didn’t warn them. The post Constant-Velocity Joints: Smooth Operators appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

CARDONE Industries has been recognized as a Philadelphia Inquirer Top 10 Workplace among large companies, placing ahead of all other manufacturers on the list. The award is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner, Energage. The anonymous survey measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to an organization’s success, including alignment, execution, and connection. “I am thankful for our employees and for the culture they continue to cultivate daily,” said Mike Carr, CEO. “It is an honor and testament to our employees to be ranked among the Top 10 Philadelphia/Delaware Valley Workplaces. Our dedicated workforce has created a collaborative environment that adapts to challenges, embraces new opportunities, and shapes the future of CARDONE. I am grateful for the opportunity to be part of this award-winning team.” The post CARDONE Named One Of The Top Workplaces In Philly appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article