-
Welcome to Auto Parts Forum
Whether you are a veteran automotive parts guru or just someone looking for some quick auto parts advice, register today and start a new topic in our forum. Registration is free and you can even sign up with social network platforms such as Facebook, Twitter, Google, and LinkedIn.
Low Gas Prices + Simple Car Care = More Savings
-
Similar Topics
-
By Counterman
The more time I spent behind the counter, the more I noticed the diversity of customers coming into the store from one day to the next. My theory is that cars are a uniting force in our world. Put simply, they may be the one thing we all share in common. To some of us, cars are simply a way to “get from point A to point B.” Then there are the enthusiasts who look at their car not only as transportation, but also as an extension of their passions, and sometimes, their personalities.
I’d say that I fall into the second category. I love cars for a number of reasons. The snarling sound of a European V-8 compared to the rumble of an American V-8 – both are music to my ears! I also tend to make at least some sort of modification to every vehicle I own. It may not be a big upgrade, but something to either add a bit of my own style, or a touch of added convenience.
I’m not the type of person who is only interested in horsepower, but I know when a car feels like it’s lacking in that department. However, there are customers out there who want to boost horsepower as much as possible, and they’re willing to shell out some serious cash to make it happen! It’s probably safe to say that you’ve had at least one experience with a customer who is looking to boost their car’s horsepower, even just a little bit.
Let’s take a look at what sort of parts this type of customer could be interested in, and what you can do to make the sale.
Air Intake
High-flow performance filters are a common upgrade. These filters come in a variety of colors. The color is from a dyed oil that’s soaked into the element. The elements typically are a cotton weave, held in place by a wire mesh. The weave is looser than a standard paper air filter, which allows a greater volume of air to pass through. Since the loose weave can’t filter out the smaller particles, it’s soaked in oil, and the particles will, in turn, stick to the oil. Dye is used in the oil so there’s an easily noticeable contrast between the oil and the element, allowing you to ensure that all areas are saturated.
These types of filters can flow more air, and drivers may be able to feel a small change in performance. But they do require regular cleaning and re-oiling to maintain their level of performance. You can be confident about selling them and touting the increased flow, but I do warn people that when they clean and oil them, be sure to heed the instructions, and don’t over-oil them. There always have been “rumors” of these types of filters damaging mass airflow sensors, but they’re largely unfounded, and over-oiling them is the only thing that could possibly contribute to this.
At the higher end, the customer may choose to install a new intake system. An intake system swaps out the factory air box for a heat shield, or a redesigned air box for better air flow.
Power-Adders
This next category steps things up a notch. Power-adders are upgrades that are designed to add horsepower, or possibly free up ponies that are being lost along the way.
Thanks to the widespread use of turbocharging in modern-day engines, there are plenty of tuning possibilities with these forced-induction engines. Bigger, more efficient intercoolers will help to keep those intake-air temps low. Cooler intake air is denser air, and this means better power and efficiency.
There are plenty of opportunities to maximize airflow and efficiency in a turbocharged application. Small gains can be seen by upgrading the charge pipes that carry the charge air from the turbocharger to the intercooler, then from the intercooler to the intake manifold. The small, restrictive stock turbo inlet pipe can be swapped out for an upgraded cast aluminum for better air flow. These may be small gains, but they will start to add up. For the best possible power gains, they may want to consider having the ECU tuned by an aftermarket tuner.
High-End Upgrades or Retrofits
Our final category comes in at the highest price point, but some of them can bring tremendous power gains.
The exhaust system is responsible for carrying away exhaust gases after combustion. The real problem – at least in a car enthusiast’s eyes – is that stock exhausts are quiet. An upgraded downpipe can make a huge sound difference on a turbocharged engine. Aftermarket headers can have a similar effect on naturally aspirated engines. And a cat-back exhaust system (from the catalytic converter back) can benefit any vehicle with a livelier exhaust note. But it’s wise to urge your customers to always adhere to local ordinances and emissions regulations.
We already talked about modern engines that are turbocharged from the factory, but what if their vehicle isn’t turbocharged? Well, it’s possible, of course, to retrofit a turbocharger or supercharger onto a naturally aspirated engine, but that brings a whole new level of complication and cost.
And let’s not forget our customers with supercharged engines, such as the Pontiac Grand Prix GTP, Audi S4 and Mercedes-Benz E55 AMG. There are a number of vehicles out there with supercharged engines. One of the easiest ways to gain power in these applications would be by installing a new supercharger pulley. This smaller-diameter pulley causes the supercharger to spin faster, increasing the amount of boost it can generate. After this, the crankshaft pulley can be replaced with a larger one, increasing the amount of overdrive to the supercharger. Speaking from experience, with both of these pulleys and the required ECU tune on a 2013 Audi S4, the difference is night and day! The car went from being quick to snapping your head back into the headrest.
These are just a few examples of upgrades that can be used to boost horsepower. I would urge you to spend some time looking through your catalogs and familiarizing yourself with the offerings inside. Chances are you’ll have an opportunity to sell upgraded parts to a customer soon!
The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view -
-
By CaribAutoParts
As we all know, long road trips can be exciting but also challenging, especially when it comes to staying comfortable and organized. Having the right car accessories can make all the difference. In this article, we will highlight the 5 must-have car accessories for a long trip that will make your journey more enjoyable and stress-free.
Portable Air Compressor One of the most important car accessories to have during a long trip is a portable air compressor. This is because tire pressure tends to fluctuate due to temperature changes and long hours on the road. A portable air compressor allows you to maintain the correct tire pressure, which not only ensures your safety but also improves fuel efficiency. Additionally, a portable air compressor can come in handy for inflating air mattresses or other items during your trip.
Seat Cushions Sitting for extended periods of time can cause discomfort and even pain. This is where seat cushions come in. They provide additional support and comfort for your back, hips, and legs, reducing the risk of back pain and fatigue. There are various types of seat cushions available, including memory foam, gel, and heated cushions. Choose the one that suits your needs and preferences to ensure maximum comfort during your long journey.
GPS Navigation System Getting lost on a long road trip can be frustrating and time-consuming. Having a GPS navigation system can prevent this from happening. Not only does it help you avoid getting lost, but it also provides real-time traffic updates and alternative routes, saving you time and hassle. In addition to the traditional GPS devices, you can also use GPS apps on your smartphone, which are often free and provide the same functionality.
Car Phone Mount A car phone mount is an essential accessory for any long trip. It allows you to keep your hands free while using your smartphone for navigation or entertainment. A car phone mount also keeps your phone in a secure and easy-to-reach position, making it convenient to take calls or change music without having to search for your phone. There are various types of car phone mounts available, including dashboard mounts, vent mounts, and suction cup mounts. Choose the one that fits your needs and preferences to ensure a safe and comfortable trip.
Travel Cooler A travel cooler is a great accessory to have during a long road trip, especially if you want to save money on food and drinks. It allows you to store food and beverages, keeping them cool and fresh for an extended period of time. You can also use it to store medications or other items that require refrigeration. There are various types of travel coolers available, including electric coolers, thermoelectric coolers, and ice-based coolers. Choose the one that suits your needs and preferences to ensure a hassle-free trip.
Conclusion
Long road trips can be tiring, but with the right car accessories, you can make the journey more comfortable and enjoyable. From a portable air compressor to a travel cooler, the above-listed accessories are essential for any long trip. They provide comfort, convenience, and safety, allowing you to focus on the road and enjoy the ride. So, make sure to pack these 5 must-have car accessories before your next long journey, and you'll be sure to have a stress-free and enjoyable trip.
-
By Carib Auto Parts
At some point, every car owner will need to replace a part of their vehicle. Regarding buying or replacing auto parts, two main options are available:
OEM Car Parts Aftermarket Car Parts Both options have pros and cons, but what is the difference? In this blog, we’ll look closer at OEM Car Parts and Aftermarket Car Parts to help you decide which option is best for your vehicle.
What are OEM Car Parts?
What does OEM mean? OEM stands for “original equipment manufacturer.” OEM Parts are made by the same company that produced the original part of your vehicle. These parts are made to the exact specifications as the original ones, ensuring they fit and function as intended. One of the main benefits of using OEM parts is that they are often covered under warranty. You can usually replace the part for free if something goes wrong. OEM parts are also known for their high quality, as they are made to the same standards as the original parts.
What are Aftermarket Car Parts?
Aftermarket parts are parts that the original manufacturer does not make of a vehicle. Instead, they are produced by third-party manufacturers and sold as replacements for OEM parts. Aftermarket parts can include various products, including mechanical parts such as engines, brakes, and transmissions, and cosmetic parts such as body kits and spoilers. Aftermarket parts are often designed to be interchangeable with OEM parts, meaning they should fit and function just like the original part. However, there are some differences in quality and price between aftermarket and OEM parts. While aftermarket parts are often more affordable, they may need to meet the same quality standards as OEM parts. A broader range of options may be available for customization and upgrades. Vehicle owners should carefully consider their options when choosing between aftermarket and OEM parts and ensure they purchase from a reputable manufacturer that offers high-quality products.
What is the best Choice Between OEM and Aftermarket Parts?
There are a few factors to consider when choosing between OEM and aftermarket parts. The first is cost. OEM parts are often more expensive than aftermarket parts, but they also have the added assurance of quality and warranty protection. On the other hand, Aftermarket parts are generally less expensive, but it can be more difficult to determine the quality of the part.
If you are looking for a high-quality part covered under warranty, OEM parts may be the best choice. However, if you are on a low budget or need a more versatile part, aftermarket parts may be how you want to go. Ultimately, the most important thing is to research and choose a part that will fit and function as intended.
How Carib Auto Parts can help you source OEM and Aftermarket Car Parts?
link hidden, please login to view want to let you know that we help you source OEM and Aftermarket parts from Japan and the USA. We understand how frustrating it can be to search for the right parts, especially when unsure where to look or how much it will cost. That's why we offer a service that takes care of everything for you, including the cost of the part, the cost of shipping, and all applicable taxes and customs duties. When you come to us for your auto parts needs, we'll provide you with a fully landed price that includes all these costs. This way, you don't have to worry about surprise charges or fees. We have established relationships with reliable suppliers in Japan and the USA, which allows us to source high-quality parts at competitive prices. We can help you find what you want, whether you need OEM or aftermarket parts. We aim to make sourcing auto parts as easy and hassle-free as possible for our customers.
If you have any queries, Visit link hidden, please login to view or link hidden, please login to view
-
By Counterman
Counterman’s “
link hidden, please login to view” contest challenges our readers to solve an automotive riddle, for a chance to win $100. And each month, we receive hundreds of responses from aftermarket professionals trying to guess the model of the vehicle depicted. The correct answer for the February/March contest is the Chrysler Pacifica. The winner is Elissa Herbert, retail specialist/counter sales for NAPA Auto Parts in Ambler, Pennsylvania.
Now, let’s get to know the “Guess the Car” champion.
CM: How long have you been working in the auto parts business?
EH: I started in the automotive industry as a technician when I was 14. I was working part-time in auto parts also. I probably started [full-time] in auto parts when I was in my early 20s.
CM: What do you like most about your job?
EH: I like to help people – especially women who come in and don’t know anything [about cars]. I’m like, “Listen, I got you.”
It’s kind of scary coming into these places, because they’re all full of guys. When [women] see me, they’re a little relieved, like, “Oh I can talk to you.”
CM: What’s the strangest question a customer has asked you?
EH: Once I had a customer call me for a set of brake pads: one rotor and one caliper. I had to get the caliper down from the very top shelf and it was quite heavy. When the customer came in to pick up his parts, he said he only needed the brakes and rotor, not the caliper. I jokingly gave him a hard time about how difficult it was to get down, and now I have to put it back. He asked me if he could make it up to me by taking me out to dinner! I accepted the offer and we dated for four years after that.
CM: What’s the coolest car you’ve ever owned or worked on?
EH: My first car was a 1986 [Camaro] Z28, and I loved that very much. And it was older than me, so I was trying to keep it running as long as I could.
CM: Do you have any interesting hobbies? What do you do for fun?
EH: I go hiking with my husband and daughter. We usually take our little 5-pound morkie, who likes to go for miles and miles.
CM: What’s your dream car?
EH: A Bugatti Veyron.
CM: Doesn’t matter what year?
EH: No, it’s just always been a Bugatti for me. I love them all.
The post
link hidden, please login to view appeared first on link hidden, please login to view.
link hidden, please login to view
-
Recommended Posts
Join the conversation
You can post now and register later. If you have an account, sign in now to post with your account.
Note: Your post will require moderator approval before it will be visible.