October 2024 Shop and Product Showcase by Autobody News

SHOWCAS E SHOWCASE SHOP AND PRODUC T SHOP AND PRODUC T SHOWCAS E SHOWCASE

3M 2-3

Rihm Kenwor th Body Shop & Collision Center

Coon Rapids, MN

Rihm Kenwor th Body Shop & Collision Center Coon Rapids, MN

AirPro Diagnostics 4-5

ProColor Collision Etobicoke

Etobicoke, ON, Canada

ProColor Collision Etobicoke Etobicoke, ON, Canada

AkzoNobel 6-7

Coatings

Fix Auto Quar tz Hill

Quar tz Hill, CA

Fix Auto Quar tz Hill Quar tz Hill, CA

ALLDATA 8-9

Kniesel’s Collision Sacramento, CA

asTech 10-11

Driven by Repairify

CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body Littleton, CO

Driven by Repairify CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body Littleton, CO

Axalta 12-13

Coating Systems

M. Toguchi Body Shop Wailuku, HI

Blowtherm USA 14-15

Top Gun Auto Center

Car-O-Liner 16-17

Car-O -Liner 16-17

Top Gun Auto Center Nor th Holly wood, CA Kaizen Glass 30-31 Solutions

Young Collision Center Layton, UT

Paint & Body Wichita Falls, TX

CCC 18-19

Intelligent Solutions

Arone Auto Body by Delaney Homer City, PA

KECO 32-33 Body Repair Products

CPS Produc ts 20-21

Splash Car Washes Greenwich, CT

G&C Auto Body Santa Rosa, CA OEC 34-35 Rick ’s Paint & Body Augusta, GA

Nor th Holly wood, CA

Equalizer 22-23

Airpor t Auto Body Har tford, CT

Hunter 24-25

Engineering Co.

Superior Auto Body Ranson, WV

I- CAR 26-27

Gustafson Brothers Huntington Beach, CA

Induc tion 28-29

Innovations

University Automotive Sacramento, CA

Rihm Kenworth Body Shop Boosts Inventory Control with 3M™ RepairStack™

by Autobody News Staff

Established in 1932, Rihm Kenworth in Coon Rapids, MN, is a 92-year-old, family owned and operated fourthgeneration business. Boasting seven dealerships across the Midwest, it is also the only 100% woman-owned Kenworth truck dealer in the U.S., helping to pave the way for women in trucking.

Randy Johansson has been managing the dealership’s body shop for four years, but he has a long history in the industry.

“I worked part-time in a friend’s shop when I was in high school,” said Johansson. “So that’s where the bug bit me. And I’ve been in it ever since — first as a technician, then, for the past 26 years, as a manager.”

When it comes to local competition for Rihm Kenworth’s body shop, Johansson said between independent shops and a couple of dealership groups, the Twin Cities Metro Area provides some “pretty stiff competition” for truck repairs. To be successful in that market, Johansson said his shop focuses on performing fast, thorough repairs.

“We concentrate on quality and reducing downtime. We know that truckers aren’t making any money with their truck in our shop, so our goal is to get them back on the road as quickly as possible. And we make sure it’s a quality repair so they don’t end up going to somebody else to fix something that we should have repaired correctly the first time,” said Johansson.

Of course, running a body shop for heavy trucks means managing a huge amount of inventory, and when Johansson came to the Rihm Kenworth shop, he knew they needed to increase efficiency in this area.

“We were looking for help with inventory control — cost management, security, ease of ordering — those kinds of things. I’ve known and used 3M products forever in this industry, so working with them was the obvious choice for me,” said Johansson.

The shop decided to go all in with 3M™ RepairStack™ Performance

Solutions, including both hardware and software. After making the commitment, the 3M team came to Rihm Kenworth to help with installation, implementation and training. That process included a thorough assessment of the products the shop was carrying.

“They were here for several days and [3M rep] John Phillips helped us streamline everything. We were carrying so much unnecessary inventory. We went from about 500 SKUs to around 150. It’s astonishing how much businesses waste because they have money tied up in unnecessary inventory,” said Johansson.

After two years of using 3M™ RepairStack™, Johansson said it has transformed inventory management for the business.

“We have the complete system, including the cabinets to keep things organized. We have minimums and maximums set up on our ordering system so that when a product gets to a certain level, it automatically generates an order. All we have to do is provide a purchase order number and it’s sent off to our jobber, and the next day we see our product. It saves hours of time managing inventory,” he said.

Johannson added that even the organization and placement of the 3M cabinets has helped improve the whole workflow of the shop.

“One of the changes we made was locating the cabinets in the center of the shop so the techs aren’t wasting time walking

across the shop for materials,” he said. “And everything is organized and easy to find in the cabinet so materials can be quickly identified.”

When Johansson first decided to implement the 3M™ RepairStack™ system, he said he had some pushback from employees. But once they experienced the product, there was a fast turnaround.

“To say there was resistance is an understatement — they were used to doing things in a certain way and nobody likes change,” he said. “But it didn’t even take a month for everyone to get on board. For the techs, it’s the ease, organization and the central location of the product that they appreciate.”

Johansson said the 3M onboarding process set the business up for success with RepairStack™, but he noted the support didn’t stop there. “The support from 3M has always been awesome. I can call someone at any time, and I usually hear back from them within the hour,” he said.

On the whole, Johansson sees 3M™ RepairStack™ as a critical business asset that has increased productivity and drastically reduced the amount of time he spends on inventory management.

“Managing inventory used to take hours — now, I can just hit a couple of buttons and I have my inventory value at my fingertips. Our orders are done automatically, there’s less time involved, and it makes everything so much more efficient,” he concluded.

Rihm Kenworth Body Shop & Collision Center

Coon Rapids, MN

651-236-6080

www.rihmkenworth.com/ truckbodyshop

Company At A Glance...

Type: Truck Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 11

In Business Since: 1932

Number of Locations: One

Production Space: 15,000 square feet (body shop) 3M 877-208-6155

www.3m.com

Facebook: @3M

Instagram: @3M

X: @3M

LinkedIn: @3m

YouTube: @3MCorporate

Shop manager Randy Johansson says the 3M™ RepairStack™ has greatly increased efficiency in the shop.

Located in Coon Rapids, MN, the Rihm Kenworth body shop focuses on fast, quality repairs.

Rihm Kenworth Truck Body Shop & Collision Center is a fourth-generation family owned and operated business.

ProColor Collision Etobicoke Sees Improved Efficiency, Service Quality with AirPro and AUGGIE

by Autobody News Staff

ProColor Collision Etobicoke (pronounced uh-tow-buh-kow) has served the Etobicoke community — an administrative district and former city within Toronto, Ontario, Canada — since 1988. With a sprawling 15,000-square-foot facility and a dedicated team of 28 employees, the shop is known for its superior quality and dedication to efficiency.

Under the ownership of Shanif Daya, ProColor Collision Etobicoke has expanded to four locations. Daya’s son, Azad Daya, oversees the day-to-day operations. Azad Daya said one way the facility has stayed ahead is through the constant adaptation of cuttingedge tools.

Integrating the AirPro Diagnostics and AUGGIE tools has been a game changer for ProColor Collision Etobicoke. These tools, essential for advanced diagnostics and ADAS calibrations, have helped the shops perform more ForwardFacing Camera (FFC) calibrations in-house and have significantly enhanced their operational efficiency and service quality.

ProColor Collision Etobicoke began its journey with AirPro Diagnostics in 2020, seeking a reliable and advanced scanning solution to meet the demands of its clientele, including major fleet and rental companies.

The facility had previously experimented with AirPro competitors, but returned to AirPro, attracted by its OE-level ADAS calibrations and advanced diagnostic capabilities. Over the past four years, ProColor Collision Etobicoke has conducted more than 15,000 scans using AirPro tools.

“We needed a solution that could keep up with the rapid advancements in automotive technology,” Daya said. “AirPro has consistently provided us with the tools and support to stay ahead.”

He said the main reason for choosing AirPro was to limit liability and exposure by leveraging the latest technology. Traditional repair methods often need to catch up to advancements in automotive technology, resulting in longer cycle times and potential liabilities.

With AirPro, ProColor Collision Etobicoke gains access to the latest technology directly from OEMs,

One of ProColor Collision Etobicoke’s favorite features of the AirPro tool is that scan data can be stored on AirPro’s servers, facilitating easy access to certificates of completion and scan histories.

ensuring repairs are conducted using the most up-to-date and accurate methods.

Daya said using the AirPro AUGGIE has myriad benefits, including efficiency, time savings, enhanced diagnostic capabilities, and data storage and retrieval.

One of the standout features of AirPro is its efficiency. The process begins with connecting the AirPro tool to the vehicle, completed within two to three minutes. An AirPro technician remotely accesses the tool, conducting a comprehensive 360-degree scan in minutes. This real-time interaction allows for immediate adjustments and the generation of a detailed report, providing a preliminary roadmap for repairs, Daya said. The prescan results, highlighted in bright red, indicate issues that must be addressed, which turn green once resolved.

The AirPro tool, compact and portable, allows for dynamic road tests with real-time feedback from a technician. “The ability to conduct dynamic road tests and receive real-time feedback from an AirPro technician has been a game changer,” Daya said. “It ensures that all sensors and systems are thoroughly tested and calibrated.”

One of Daya’s favorite features is AirPro’s online storage solution. All scan data is stored on their servers, accessible anytime today or three years from now. This comprehensive database aids in long-term recordkeeping and transparency, providing certificates of completion and detailed scan histories.

Before adopting AirPro,

ProColor Collision Etobicoke often faced significant delays when booking calibrations and scans with outside vendors. “We used to wait weeks for calibrations and scans, which was unacceptable for our workflow,” Daya said. “AirPro’s timely service has drastically reduced these wait times, allowing us to deliver vehicles to our customers much faster.”

Initially, ProColor Collision Etobicoke’s technicians received in-depth training from AirPro technicians ensuring the shop’s technicians were fully competent in using the tools.

Ongoing support has also been a critical component. AirPro technicians conduct weekly followups, analyze scan reports and address issues, ensuring ProColor Collision Etobicoke remains proficient in using the latest automotive repair technologies.

“The training and support from AirPro have been exceptional,” Daya said. “Their technicians were with us every step of the way, ensuring that we fully understood how to use the tools and could confidently operate them.”

ProColor Collision Etobicoke’s experience with AirPro Diagnostics and the AUGGIE has been overwhelmingly positive. Integrating this advanced tool has improved the shop’s operational efficiency and enhanced its ability to deliver top-notch service. The combination of reduced wait times, comprehensive training and real-time diagnostic capabilities has solidified the shop’s reputation as a leader in the collision repair industry in the Toronto area.

ProColor Collision Etobicoke

Etobicoke, ON, Canada 416-675-0100

www.procolor.com/en-ca/shop/ etobicoke-north

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair & Refinish

Facility Employees: 28

In Business Since: 1988

Number of Locations: Four

Production Space:

15,000 square feet (ProColor Collision Etobicoke only)

The AirPro tool, compact and portable, makes road tests smooth and provides real-time feedback from an AirPro technician.

ProColor Collision Etobicoke has conducted more than 15,000 scans using AirPro tools since it began working with the company in 2020.

AirPro Diagnostics

904-717-1711

airprodiagnostics.com

Facebook: @AirProDiag

Instagram: @airprodiag

LinkedIn: @airpro-diagnostics

YouTube: @airprodiagnostics1282

Fix Auto Quartz Hill Thrives with AkzoNobel Products

by Autobody News Staff

Fix Auto Quartz Hill in Quartz Hill, CA, stands out for its success and innovation. Out of 200 Fix Auto shops, Quartz Hill ranked No. 1 in the first quarter of 2024. This recognition surprised the shop because it was an inaugural award that had never been given before. The shop — founded by Mike Neis — is one of four owned by the Neis Group. It has evolved from humble beginnings into a leading player in the industry, largely thanks to its use of AkzoNobel products and services.

Neis purchased the Quartz Hill shop from a previous owner who had been in business for over 20 years. When he took over, the shop was far from a thriving enterprise. With just six employees, including Matteo Perrett, who started as the first writer, estimator and manager, the shop made less than $40,000 monthly on an average of about 12-15 cars.

“We didn’t have much at all,” recalled Perrett. “But we had a vision and a determination to grow.”

Perrett’s entry into the collision repair industry was serendipitous. Having just graduated from Cal State Northridge with a background in kinesiology and doing graphic design work, he had no clear career path. A chance encounter with his best man from his wedding, who worked at another body shop owned by the Neis family, led to a meeting with Neis. “It was not planned at all,” Perrett explained. “Mike saw potential in me despite my lack of experience. He believed I could figure out the technical stuff later.”

Under the leadership of Neis and Perrett, the Quartz Hill location has seen remarkable growth. From a small operation, the shop now repairs 60-70 cars per month. This growth is awe-inspiring given the competitive local market, which features about 10 big body shops and numerous mom-and-pop operations.

“We are competitive and want to be ahead of the shops in the area,” said Perrett. “By noticing the ebbs and flows of business, we stay on top of our game.”

With a “vision and determination to grow,” Fix Auto Quartz Hill in California has experienced dramatic growth and success, thanks partly to its use of AkzoNobel’s Carbeat. This production system has revolutionized the shop’s workflow.

Its partnership with AkzoNobel is a significant factor in the shop’s success. As a Sikkens user, Fix Auto Quartz Hill has benefited immensely from AkzoNobel’s Acoat Selected business services team and tools. One standout technology is Carbeat®, a production system developed by AkzoNobel that has revolutionized the shop’s workflow.

Jeff Baker, senior services consultant from AkzoNobel, has been instrumental in helping Perrett and his team implement and optimize the Carbeat system.

“We’ve developed a playbook with Jeff’s help to repair cars in a timely fashion and maintain high quality,” Perrett explained. “Carbeat allows us to use our space and time efficiently, improving quality and customer satisfaction.”

Carbeat is a web-based platform with a big touchscreen TV displaying the real-time production schedule. Technicians can seamlessly move tasks from the body side to the paint department, and everyone in the shop, including the mechanics, can see the status of each job. “It’s hard to imagine keeping up with the amount of work without Carbeat,” Perrett said. “The board acts as the production manager, keeping everyone informed and on track.”

Described as a “workflow dashboard,” it has streamlined operations, led to impressive performance metrics, and resulted in the shop’s recognition as tops in Q1. “Our success is a testament

to the assistance and training we received from AkzoNobel,” said Perrett. “Their support has set us apart from other shops.”

The benefits of using AkzoNobel products go beyond just technology. “Their paint and materials are top-notch,” Perrett said. “The paint systems are incredibly useful, and the training and support we receive are invaluable.”

The positive feedback from the staff speaks volumes about the impact of Carbeat. Technicians appreciate the clear visibility and prioritization of tasks, while estimators and office staff find it easier to manage their workflow. “Everyone would recommend our shop 100%,” Perrett said. “We communicate effectively with each other and our customers, reflected in our high Net Promoter Score.”

The support from AkzoNobel is strong. “Whenever we want to improve something, we can call them, and they come immediately to help,” Perrett said. “They provide documentation, assist with insurance claims, and are always responsive. Jeff Baker, our services consultant, goes out of his way to ensure we succeed.”

The Quartz Hill location of Fix Auto has transformed from a modest shop into a top performer in the collision repair industry. Thanks to AkzoNobel’s innovative products and dedicated support, it has increased productivity, enhanced customer satisfaction, and achieved remarkable success.

Fix Auto Quartz Hill Quartz Hill, CA 661-488-7879

FixAutousa.com/quartz-hill

Company At A Glance... Type: Collision Repair Facility Employees: 10

In Business Since: 2019

Number of Locations: Four

Production Space: 5,500 square feet (Quartz Hill)

Mateo Perrett, general manager of the Neis Group’s Quartz Hill and Palmdale, CA, locations, leads the morning Carbeat pitch meeting with technicians. Perrett said AkzoNobel’s Carbeat productivity board has been a game changer in building communication and efficiency, and streamlined operations to be more cohesive.

AkzoNobel Coatings

800-618-1010

www.SikkensVR.com/us-en

Painter Nery Lopez Barrios shoots clear coat on the hood of a 2020 Dodge Challenger.

OEM Repair Information

Industry’s #1 choice for OEM repair information*

Covers 95% of vehicles on the road today

Collision-specific procedures + complete mechanical

Limits liability and reduces comebacks

Both OEM wiring diagrams and interactive color wiring diagrams

Easy-to-learn format for all makes & models

NEW ADAS Quick Reference to find ADAS info fast

ALLDATA DIAGNOSTICS

Add ALLDATA Diagnostics for unlimited quick pre-and post-scans and ALLDATA Collision built-in

* 2021 Who Pays for What? survey by CollisionAdvice and CRASH Network shows that the majority of respondents (73.4%) use ALLDATA for OEM collision repair information.

ALLDATA’s User-Friendly Software Assures OEM Compliance for Kniesel’s Collision

by Autobody News Staff

Kniesel’s Collision has deep roots in California’s Central Valley. Founded by Richard Kniesel in 1968 in Sacramento, what began as a modest family-owned body shop now has more than 260 employees and churns out 1,230 vehicles monthly.

Determined from the outset to deliver first-class customer service and top-notch workmanship, the company has built its reputation around a set of core values: the Golden Rule, WOW customer service, humility, integrity, family and quality. The philosophy has served the business well for 56 years.

The second-generation company, owned by Kniesel’s sons Robert and Tom, boasts 11 I-CAR Gold Class-certified repair centers whose reach extends into three counties. All technical staff is Gold Class certified as well. Additionally, Kniesel’s holds 17 OEM certifications, which run the gamut from Audi to Toyota.

While shops are equipped to repair almost any make or model, different locations are also OEMapproved to repair specific brands, such as General Motors and Ford or Nissan and Lexus. One exception: the flagship facility in Loomis, known as Specialized, strictly repairs high-end vehicles, namely Audi, Lucid, Maserati, MercedesBenz, Rivian and Tesla.

To ensure shops are well staffed and equipped, Kniesel’s invests in training and equipment. “The company does a good job of putting money into the company for equipment and training,” noted Jeff Locke, corporate compliance specialist. “They send techs all over the country to OEM training. We have I-CAR training all the time. And we don’t skimp on equipment. Whatever we need to repair cars correctly, we buy it.”

The complexity of repairing modern-day vehicles also requires expert knowledge of regulations and OEM repair guidelines.

“As a company, we are committed to ensuring that every vehicle we repair meets OEM specifications and guidelines,” said Locke. “I work with body techs, blueprinters and production managers during the repair process. I inspect cars throughout the repair process, pull repair procedures —

Kniesel’s I-CAR Gold Class-certified facility in Loomis, CA, is a 30,000-square-foot OE-certified shop specializing in repairing high-end vehicles, including Audi, Lucid, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Rivian and Tesla.

what we can and cannot do based on OE guidelines — and anything compliance-related when it comes to laws and regulations.”

Locke also keeps up with OEM certifications, monitors equipment to ensure everything is in working order and provides input when new standard operating procedures (SOPs) are developed. He’s also involved in a professionaldevelopment program.

To help address the worker shortage plaguing the industry, Kniesel’s has an apprentice program. The three-year, six-level program pairs full-time apprentices with A-level technicians.

“It’s an awesome program,” he said. “I make sure the techs are trained correctly and have the skills to move on to the next level. We supply them with tools and toolboxes to make it easy as possible for the apprentices to understand that Kniesel’s is here to help develop them because they are the future of the company.”

In keeping with its emphasis on maintaining the highest standards, Kniesel’s relies on trusted resources to complete every job correctly, from start to finish — which is where ALLDATA comes into play, as a provider of OEM-accurate software for the collision repair industry.

“We use ALLDATA on a daily basis,” said Locke, who noted techs rely on tablets or a mobile blueprinting setup to access the software. He stressed the importance of printing repair plans in color, because specific notes often printed in red — such as for panel bonding or adhesives — are not visible in black and white. He also emphasized entering the vehicle identification number (VIN)

to avoid clicking on the wrong model, wheelbase or engine size.

“We use the ALLDATA auto repair software to pull OEM information and repair procedures. We pre-scan every vehicle for trouble codes and document what calibrations are needed. And then every vehicle gets a post-scan at the end of the job,” Locke said.

“ALLDATA’s formatting is very tech-friendly. A lot of people get confused, because they think ALLDATA has its own procedures. They do not. All documents are OEM documents. They just simplify it and break it into categories, such as service and repair, components, locations and diagrams.”

Whether he’s downloading OEM repair documents, using the company’s Tech-Assist hotline or Library Support, from Locke’s perspective, ALLDATA is a proven asset.

“ALLDATA is a valuable resource where you can get the information you need in a timely manner, be able to move forward with your repair plan and repair that vehicle to OEM guidelines and specifications,” he said.

From Locke’s perspective, it’s all about living up to the company’s core values. “Our core values are what we stand behind,” he said. “Nowadays in our industry, it’s hard to find a family-owned and familyoriented business that’s been around for 56 years. I’m proud to work for Kniesel’s because of what they do for their customers to repair vehicles back to the OE specifications, how they treat employees like family and the apprentice program. That’s the wave of the future for long-term success in this industry.”

Kniesel’s Collision Sacramento, CA 916-883-2666 kniesels.com

Company At A Glance... Type: Collision Repair Facility Employees: 263

In Business Since: 1968

Number of Locations: 11

Combined Production Space: 294,500 square feet

Left to right are blueprinter Danny Meija, corporate compliance specialist Jeff Locke and body technician Basil Jennette reviewing ALLDATA OE procedures prior to starting repairs.

Kniesel’s Natomas workforce. The shop is Kniesel’s highest volume facility.

asTech® Helps CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body Standardize Pricing with DRPs

by Autobody News Staff

One of the main values of Puget Collision, the parent company of CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body, is “people first.”

“We do that here,” said Jennifer Hern, collision center leader at the Littleton, CO, location. “I don’t treat my people like employees, I treat them like customers.”

Puget Collision LLC owns 50 collision repair facilities spread throughout Colorado, Oregon, Washington and California. Puget’s senior leadership includes CEO Joe Morella, COO Tom Redding, and Gary Hogan, SVP of strategic accounts.

The collision center opened in 2001 and Hern joined the team in 2012. Over the last 12 years, she has moved from parts manager, to estimator, to production manager, to director of operations, to her current title.

Hern said she feels CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body’s culture sets it apart from out other collision centers.

“Teamwork is everything,” she explained. “There’s not a person in the shop that wouldn’t drop what they’re doing to go help another person; no matter what it is, there’s no ‘that’s not my job’ here.”

The 19,000-square-foot Littleton location has 20 employees and 27 DRPs.

“Our main six would be Progressive, State Farm, Allstate, Travelers, Nationwide and USAA,” explained Hern. “We do a lot of fleet work.”

According to Hern, CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body is predominantly an electric vehicle facility.

“About 70% of our work is Tesla or Rivian,” said Hern. “We are both Tesla and Rivian certified, along with other OEM certifications.”

Hern said aside from Rivian and Tesla, which have their own specific platforms, CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body performs pre- and post-repair scans with the asTech® All-In-One.

“Puget purchased all three Ideal Auto Body locations in Colorado in February,” explained Hern. “asTech was already required at the Arvada, CO, shop because of its Subaru certification, so in March, asTech became mandatory for Littleton and Highlands Ranch.”

Hern added the asTech® All-InOne platform is “super easy to use.”

“asTech® All-In-One also standardizes pricing not just for our collision center and not just with our DRPs, but across the country,” she explained. “It helps set a precedent, so it’s not a willy-nilly pricing scheme where one shop can charge this price and then another shop a different price for the same work.”

Hern added the platform “gives us the justification to get paid for what we need.”

Redding also shared his experience with the platform.

“The asTech interface with CCC, coupled with the diagnostic dashboard, gives us a windshield view of vehicles in process related to scanning and calibration,” Redding said. “It has improved our efficiency and compliance.”

According to the company website, asTech® All-In-One covers more than 45 OEM brands. It allows body shops to perform pre- and post-scans car side with the device or remotely connect to authentic OEM tools, automate the repair planning process, keep all ADAS calibrations in-house, and gives users the ability to program modules.

“A great feature of the new asTech® All-In-One is that it seems to be timelier than its predecessor,” said Hern. “It also has dedicated technicians that walk us through every step of the way.”

Hern said at the Littleton location, the asTech scans are only allowed to be done by three people: herself, the production manager and their mechanic.

“All three of us are very well versed in codes, so whatever comes up, we can then let the estimator

know, ‘Hey, we really need to look at this code before we disassemble this vehicle,’ for example,” she explained.

Hern said switching to asTech has enhanced the customer experience, specifically when it comes to safety.

“This is especially true when airbags are a factor,” she explained. “asTech takes the time to look up airbag replacement procedures and include this in their report.”

Hern added she would “highly recommend the asTech® All-In-One” to other auto body shops because it’s “standardizing the way diagnostics, repair planning, calibrations and programming can be performed in house with one platform.”

Autobody News asked Hern how she has found working with the asTech representatives.

“Dan Young with asTech / Repairify is awesome,” she said. “When we’ve had a few hiccups, specifically with EV vehicles, he and his team have gone so far as to rent the same year, make and model to see if they can further give us better support in the future.”

Redding also shared Hern’s sentiments.

“I would echo that the partnership with Dan and his team at asTech is what I value,” he said. “Their team is vested in the success of the partnership, and they care about our results.”

Redding added “transparent communication,” which includes sharing weekly and monthly reporting, has been “a valuable resource for staying close to the pulse of the business.”

CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body Littleton, CO 303-922-4234

www.carstar.com/locations/co/ littleton-15135

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair Facility Employees: 45

In Business Since: 2001

Number of Locations: Three

Combined Production Space: 41,545 square feet

Jennifer Hern, collision center leader at CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body, said the business’ culture, specifically its teamwork, makes it stand out from other body shops.

Dustin Hern, production manager at CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body, showcases the asTech® All-In-One device. asTech® Driven by Repairify™ 888-486-1166

astech.com

Facebook: @asTechDrivenByRepairify Instagram: @astech_official

LinkedIn: @astechdrivenbyrepairify

CARSTAR Ideal Auto Body in Littleton, CO, started using asTech® in March to help standardize pricing with DRPs.

PAINTERS USE PAINT PROS USE XP

Why do so many shops choose Cromax® XP? Maybe it’s because they can achieve a premium finish in as few as two coats. Or that it’s easy to mix, match, and apply. It could also be having access to the most innovative digital color match tools. But we’d like to think it’s all of it.

See what sets Cromax® XP apart from the competition. axalta.us/xp

M. Toguchi Body Shop Praises Axalta for ‘All Around Support’ Since 2000

by Autobody News Staff

M. Toguchi Body Shop started as a one-person operation in 1958, in a 500-square-foot lean-to garage on the side of Masano Toguchi’s parents’ home in Puunene, Maui, HI. The business’ first big move came in 1965, when it relocated to a 4,000-square-foot military Quonset hut leftover from World War II, one of 40 such huts that comprised the Kahului industrial park.

A few years later, in 1968, Masano “Masa” Toguchi decided to enter the collision repair market after a new Volkswagen dealership opened on Maui.

Coupled with the release of the movie “Herbie: The Love Bug,” the Volkswagen Beetle had become the new “it” car on Maui. Masa had found his niche, as not many collision repair technicians were excited to repair this odd little car. He and his team became the go-to repair shop for the “bug.”

After the County of Maui decided to demolish the old Quonset huts in the 1980s, M. Toguchi Body Shop settled in its current location in the Wailuku Industrial Park in 1984. The collision center now has 17 employees and consists of two adjacent buildings totaling 10,000 square feet.

Masa’s son, Daniel, took over the company in 1993. Daniel now runs the company with his son, Brent, and his wife, Alexandria

“We are proud to be a thirdgeneration legacy repair shop,” Daniel said.

When Autobody News asked Daniel what sets his business apart from others in the industry, he said, “my people.”

“I got a really good crew,” he said. “We all say we’re ‘the best of the scrubs.’”

In 2000, Daniel started using Axalta refinishing products. Shortly after in 2002, he joined the Axalta Business Council, also known as the Axalta 20 Group.

“It has been a long journey,” he said. “They have helped us a lot.”

Daniel said the Axalta Business Council meets quarterly to encourage “best practices” to improve business.

“They would cover how to move production vehicles through your facility more efficiently, shop management and marketing and more, while using the group composite financials to monitor your progress,” he explained.

“We would turn in our financial data, and they would put it in as composite spreadsheet so that you could measure your business among your peers.”

Daniel added the body shop tours that accompanied the meetings were an “excellent opportunity” to see how other group members were using Axalta products in their operations.

“You see how other members operate their business, knowing full well that what works for them in their part of the country might not work for you,” Daniel said. “But if you see some operation you like, you can tweak it to fit your business.”

Daniel said he discovered the Pro Stat-Gun on one such Axalta Business Council shop tour. The Pro Stat-Gun is used to minimize the dust particles getting on paint surfaces due to static electricity, especially on plastic bumper covers.

“It helps a lot, but we also use good spray booths and high-quality Axalta paint, so it’s everything combined, along with good paint preparation from our painters,” he added.

Daniel and his team at M. Toguchi Body Shop recently started spraying Axalta’s Cromax XP Basecoat.

“Cromax XP Basecoat is

Axalta’s hybrid solvent line that mimics their water-based product called Cromax EZ,” he explained. “It provides fast coverage and better color matching for today’s vehicle colors.”

Cromax XP has excellent color capability to match modern high chroma color palettes. Color matches are available in a wide choice of solid, metallic, pearl and special effect colors for spot, panel and overall repairs. Other features include outstanding coverage and blending.

Apart from the highperforming products, Daniel said his collision center also has “all around support” from his Axalta representatives.

“We have our local Axalta paint supplier at H&S Paint, and our Hawaii Axalta Business Account Manager Troy Emrick,” he said.

Daniel added that whenever he needs help with training, he can reach out to one of his Axalta contacts and a paint technician will fly out of California promptly. “We have Mr. Bellisario Garcia coming in shortly to help our paint team,” he said.

Autobody News asked Daniel about his typical customer profile, and he said his niche is the “everyday man’s car.”

“If you look at the vehicle demographics on Maui, it’s primarily Asian vehicles,” Daniel said. “Which works out because Axalta has done a great job with color matching on Asian brands.”

M. Toguchi Body Shop

Wailuku, HI

808-244-5339

mtoguchibodyshop.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 17

In Business Since: 1958

Number of Locations: One

Production Space: 10,000 square feet

Axalta Coating Systems

1-855-6-AXALTA

www.axalta.us

Facebook: @AxaltaNArefinish

X: @Axalta

Instagram: @axaltarefinish

LinkedIn: @axalta

YouTube: @axalta

Masa’s son, Daniel, took over the company in 1993. Daniel now runs the company with his son, Brent, and his wife, Alexandria.

M. Toguchi Body Shop has sprayed Axalta paint products for more than two decades.

M. Toguchi Body Shop was founded in 1958 as a 500-square-foot lean-to garage, and now comprises two buildings totaling 10,000 square feet.

Dual skin insulated wall panels Heavy duty hinges with brass bushings

Blowtherm USA Spray Booth Helps Top Gun Auto Center Achieve Quality Finishes, Faster

by Autobody News Staff

Top Gun Auto Center was founded in 1992 in North Hollywood, CA. When it was purchased in 2014 by John Leblebici, it was a small shop painting about one car per week, but through word of mouth, Top Gun Auto Center’s reputation started to grow, and in 2023, Leblebici opened a second location in North Hollywood.

The shop’s two locations do it all — mechanical and collision repair, custom work, paint, wraps and detailing.

Leblebici said he got into the automotive service industry against his will. “Growing up, I was not really good in school, so as a punishment, my parents sent me to help at my family members’ different car businesses — dealership, tire shop, body shop, mechanic shop — just bouncing around,” he said.

When he was 22, Leblebici got a bachelor’s degree in culinary arts and hospitality. He tried working in restaurants, but he “realized I need to go back to my roots and stick with the auto business because I was not happy,” he said. “At that point, I realized it was not a punishment, but the best gift that my family could have provided.”

That was in 2014, when Leblebici bought Top Gun Auto Center’s original location. Now he and a staff of 15 employees have achieved ASE and I-CAR certification, and are working toward 14 OEM certifications.

As Top Gun Auto Center grew to a point it was painting 20 cars a week, Leblebici knew he needed to invest in a new paint spray booth. Cleaning and prepping their previous booth between jobs was eating up too much of his painters’ time, and they had to do a lot of buffing to achieve a finish they could be proud of.

“That’s when we realized we needed help,” he said. “We needed a solution, and that’s when we found Blowtherm USA.”

Leblebici said he likes to look at what more successful shop owners are using, so he did some research on the big players, both in his local area and nationally. He found many of them chose Blowtherm USA spray booths.

When he reached out to

According to John Leblebici, owner of Top Gun Auto Center, “Shop operators should invest in quality equipment like Blowtherm to eliminate issues so they can focus on achieving quality repairs.”

Eurotech Distributors Inc., a Blowtherm USA distributor based in Paramount, CA, Leblebici spoke to Rob Summers, who gave him a list of nearby shops that had Blowtherm USA booths. Summers told him to visit those shops and, if he liked what he saw, meet Summers at the upcoming SEMA Show in Las Vegas.

“I spoke with a bunch of owners,” Leblebici said. “Usually, other owners in the same ZIP code don’t want to share too much info, but they couldn’t hide their faces with how happy they are with their current booth.”

Leblebici bought the Blowtherm World spray booth for his recentlyopened second location. He said the investment has already paid for itself in six months, and he plans to buy another World booth for his original location in the coming year.

He said the biggest advantage his shop has seen has been the efficiency.

“You can get a good finish in any booth, but it depends on how much time you have to clean it before jobs — are you going to spend 10 hours cleaning the booth and doing a lot of work to get a clean job, or do you want to just throw the car inside, do a basic cleaning and get an excellent paint job?

“That’s the biggest benefit we’ve seen from getting a Blowtherm booth,” Leblebici said.

The Blowtherm World has an advanced air circulation system that prevents diebacks during the bake cycle, Leblebici said. “With Blowtherm, after 30 minutes, we

Top Gun Auto Center North Hollywood, CA 818-980-6736

www.topgunautocenter.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision & Mechanical Repair

Facility Employees: 15

In Business Since: 1992

Number of Locations: Two

Combined Production Space: 8,000 square feet

see the fresh clear finish after the bake cycle. We don’t have to buff cars anymore and we have no dieback issues.”

In fact, the air circulation is so good, the shop’s waterborne paint dries quickly without blowers.

Leblebici praised the support he has gotten from both Blowtherm USA and Eurotech.

Blowtherm USA designed a custom booth to fit the shop’s 12-foot ceilings, and Eurotech handled the installation of “everything A to Z,” giving Top Gun Auto Center the “booth ready to turn on,” Leblebici said.

“So far we haven’t had issues other than user problems when pressing the wrong button on the control panel,” Leblebici said, but when that has happened, he can reach out to Summers for immediate help.

“I’m so blessed; I have full support,” he said. “We paint 15 to 20 cars a week without any problem. I’m happy.”

Leblebici said shop operators should invest in quality equipment like Blowtherm USA to eliminate issues so they can focus on achieving quality repairs.

“Don’t go for the cheaper option, because you get what you pay for,” Leblebici said. “Don’t learn the hard way like me; in the past, I bought so many things that were cheaper and it ended up costing me more.

“Lately I’ve been making good decisions, and Blowtherm is one of them,” he said. “I can’t wait to see how it helps me grow my company.

The air circulation is so good, the shop’s waterborne paint dries quickly without blowers — or ceiling fans.

“The

Blowtherm USA & Training Center 855-463-9872 or 262-269-6265

www.blowtherm-usa.com sales@blowtherm-usa.com

investment [in Blowtherm] has already paid for itself in six months,” Leblebici said.

Young Automotive Uses Car-O-Liner® Products Across the Board for ‘Accuracy,

by Autobody News Staff

Young Automotive has 33 dealerships and four collision centers that span Utah and Idaho. The automotive group, owned by the Young family, was founded in 1924 and is celebrating 100 years.

“We’re at 1,800 employees now and we’re projected to be at 90 rooftops by 2030,” said Chris Hudson, area collision director, who has overseen the four collision centers for the past year and a half. “We have 25 projects currently underway now.”

Hudson said he feels the company’s culture is what’s contributing to its “explosive growth.”

“We have a culture card that everybody is required to carry from the executive team down,” he explained. “Every meeting — whether it is a routine accounting meeting, production meeting, sales meeting, marketing meeting, it doesn’t matter — we do a card check to make sure everybody’s got their values card on them.”

Hudson said the meeting begins with reading their mission statement, followed by a team member giving an example of the mission statement.

“Then we read the core values that the company was founded on and continues to practice, followed by examples of those core values either in our departments, divisions, teams or something that we’ve seen,” he explained. “The core values include work together, rise together, engage and support, trust and loyalty, value and gratitude.”

Hudson said everyone does their part to ensure they are adhering to those core values every day.

“Ford Motor Company recently invited our vice president to come speak about our company culture,” he added. “So, we were proud of that.”

According to Hudson, another way Young Automotive sets itself apart from other collision centers is adding collision repair to vehicle service contracts.

“In our dealer group, if you buy an extended warranty or have any kind of service contract with us, we add on a collision aspect, free of charge. We will waive up to $1,000 of the deductible if you bring your vehicle back to us,” he explained.

“There isn’t anybody else in the industry that I know of offering that; and that’s the real price for the customers, it’s not inflated.”

As far as Direct Repair Programs (DRPs), Hudson said the Young Automotive collision centers are looking at growing “specific partnerships.”

“We don’t want to be a DRP for everybody and we don’t want to be anti-DRP,” he explained. “We want to work with DRPs that make sense in our local communities, such as USAA, since we’re right next to Hill Air Force Base.”

Hudson said Young Automotive has multiple vehicle manufacturer partnerships and puts strong emphasis on following OEM procedures for every repair.

“That’s why we chose Car-O-Liner®,” he said. “Across the board, Car-O-Liner® fits just about every single OEM requirement out there for being a certified repair facility.”

Hudson said Young Automotive exclusively uses products from the Michigan-based company.

“Our frame equipment, such as the BENCHRACK™, as well as the CTR® 9 Resistance Spot Welder and CR™200 Aluminum Workstation, all come from Car-O-Liner®,” he said. “When it comes to measuring systems, we’ve found the CAR-O-TRONIC® Vision2 to be accurate, reliable and dependable.”

According to Hudson, Young Automotive started incorporating Car-O-Liner® products around six years ago when the collision repair center began gaining OEM

Young Collision Center Layton, UT 801-444-3144

youngcollisioncenter.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 43

In Business Since: 1924

Number of Locations: Four

Combined Production Space: 66,000 square feet

certifications.

“We absolutely love the design and functionality of the EVO™ Anchoring and Holding system 1, 2 and 3 and how it correlates with the OEM specific repair procedures,” he said.

Hudson explained that since Young Automotive collision centers have multiple certifications, the versatility of Car-O-Liner® products makes it easy to navigate between each certification.

“Car-O-Liner® has great products, plus having the same procedures and standards across the board keeps all the auto body technicians on the same page,” he said. “So, if I move a technician from one body shop to another, especially with the expansion underway, they’ll already be familiar with the equipment and how it fits into our model.”

Hudson added that as the company grows, it will continue to use Car-O-Liner® products.

On top of the success Young Automotive has had with the products, he said the relationship with the Car-O-Liner® reps is fantastic.

Hudson concluded by sharing how Young Automotive contributes to its community.

“We have our own 501(c) (3) called Young Caring for Our Young, where we feed kids in need,” he explained. “We are proud to share that we’ve put over $7 million back into the community, dollar for dollar; every single dollar of the donation goes 100% to the cause, and Young takes care of all administrative costs for running the foundation.”

According to Chris Hudson, area collision director, Young Automotive began using Car-O-Liner ® products six years ago because, “across the board, Car-O-Liner® fits just about every single OEM requirement.”

Since Young Automotive collision centers have multiple certifications, the versatility of Car-O-Liner® products makes it easy to navigate between each certification.

Car-O-Liner® North America

800-521-9696

info@car-o-liner.com car-o-liner.com

LinkedIn: @car-o-liner

Young Automotive is celebrating 100 years of service in 2024. The automotive group has 33 dealerships and four collision centers across Utah, Idaho and Colorado.

CCC® Amplify: Helping Shops Build Better Websites

The setup process was easier than I thought. We can show all our services easily, and when we expanded our calibration company, we added a page highlighting this in no time.

BILL STOUFFER Assistant Body Shop Manager, Delaney Auto Group

Delaney Automotive Group Relies on CCC to Amplify Rich History, Jumpstart Business

by Autobody News Staff

Established in Indiana, PA, in 1971, Delaney Automotive Group has grown from a single dealership into a successful empire that includes collision repair centers at dealerships in Greensburg and Indiana. On the heels of this expansion, Delaney acquired Arone Auto Body in Homer City in 2022, adding 10,000 square feet of production space in 2024 to accommodate more part storage, body technicians and a full mechanical shop, Advanced Calibration Solutions (ACS).

Bill Stouffer, assistant body shop director at Delaney Collision of Indiana and Arone Auto Body by Delaney, spoke with Autobody News about his 22-year collision industry history, his company’s impressive growth, and their partnership with CCC Intelligent Solutions that enables them to repair an average of 112 vehicles each month.

“I’ve always been interested in vehicles and repairs,” Stouffer said. “During college, I owned a few cars that were in constant need of repair and that was my start — I enjoyed the troubleshooting aspect and pride myself in finding solutions for difficult problems. When I graduated, I immediately started applying for positions at car dealerships and in the insurance industry. A major insurance company hired and trained me to be an adjuster. I worked there for almost 20 years in various roles and learned a lot from some great people.”

Stouffer became familiar with Delaney Automotive Group after having spent a lot of time in the area. As Delaney’s collision business was expanding, he broached a conversation with Director John Vukman, and as Stouffer said, “the rest is history.”

Vukman’s tenured repair industry career started with his humble beginnings as a detailer in high school. He later had various body tech apprenticeships, and then launched a shop from his own home before Jack Delaney Sr. hired him as shop manager 27 years ago.

“I grew up in the industry. I loved the cars, so it was natural for me to lean in that direction,” Vukman said. “I attribute my success to the people around me who helped turn my desires into a career. People like Ron Vanetta, Frank Arone and Ed

Delaney Automotive GroupArone Auto Body by Delaney Homer City, PA 724-479-3242

aroneautobody.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 21

In Business Since: 1985

Number of Locations: Three (collision centers)

Combined Production Space: 20,000 square feet

Loyacona were instrumental. Our ownership really is second to none.

Jack Delaney Sr., Jack Delaney Jr. and Tom Delaney want to be the best in the area, and their passion is contagious.”

With a strong team and rich history, Stouffer and Vukman had an incredible foundation to build upon, but they needed the right technology to scale. This is how CCC quickly became a critical component to the company’s success.

CCC ONE® was key to managing Delaney’s day-to-day shop operations — like scheduling, parts ordering and estimating — while CCC® Amplify helped them build a professional repair shop website in minutes so they could deliver more engaging digital experiences to their customers.

“CCC Amplify allows us to market ourselves to the community with an inexpensive and easy-touse website,” Stouffer said. “The setup process was straightforward and not as time consuming as you might think. Our certifications are available for all to see and since we expanded our calibration company in January, we were able to add a page to the site explaining what we do and what we offer.”

CCC Amplify gives shops more control when it comes to their digital presence. Shops can build professional websites automatically based on information pulled directly from their CCC ONE® profile. And if a shop wants to make updates to hours, certifications or services, they simply edit their profile and those changes are instantly reflected on their website.

CCC Amplify includes 10

collision-themed templates to choose from, and easy drag-anddrop tools that help make each shop’s website unique to their style and preferences.

Stouffer said Mobile Jumpstart, a CCC ONE® solution that allows estimators to build estimates on any mobile device, including a mobile phone, is another highly valuable tool that has contributed to Delaney’s success.

“It has really made our estimators more efficient,” said Stouffer. “Our estimators can create the job in the CCC ONE® app and write a full estimate in a matter of minutes, which saves us and the customer time. Now, we can handle walk-ins or jobs that start out as a customer pay much faster.”

With the CCC ONE® Mobile App and cccone.com, shops are saving time because they’re able to write estimates anywhere, anytime — like standing with a customer at their car, or in the back with additional staff — so long as they have an internet connection and a web browser. Mobile Jumpstart makes it easy for technicians to take photos of damaged parts and add them to line-level estimates at the same time.

Delaney is one of 29,000 American repair facilities that rely on CCC’s suite of technology products to solve their most difficult challenges by combining key business operations into a single, easy-to-use solution that helps shops drive more business, improve repair quality, simplify operations and exceed customer expectations.

Learn more about CCC Amplify and the CCC ONE® Total Repair Platform at cccis.com.

ADAS calibration is set up to be performed on a customer’s vehicle.

Painter Joe Potts, who has been with the company more than 33 years, works his craft on a customer’s vehicle.

Arone Auto Body by Delaney in Homer City, PA, is excited about its expansion and addition of a mechanical and calibration shop.

Splash Car Washes’ Use of CPS® Products Revolutionizes Car Maintenance

by Autobody News Staff

For more than four decades, Splash Car Washes has established itself as a leader in the car maintenance industry. Founded in 1981 by Curtis Fisher in Greenwich, CT, the company has grown from a single location to a vast network of 65 car washes and eight oil change centers in Connecticut, New York, Massachusetts and Vermont. With a commitment to customer service and innovative solutions, Splash Car Washes now services more than 1 million vehicles annually and performs 6,000 oil changes monthly, showcasing its significant impact on its communities.

Splash Car Washes has continuously embraced advanced technologies to maintain its competitive edge. Recently, it integrated CPS® MAXXAIR™ A/C Management Centers into its service offerings, making it more efficient and delivering higher customer satisfaction. The addition of these cutting-edge machines reflects Splash Car Washes’ ongoing dedication to staying ahead of industry trends and meeting the evolving needs of its customers.

Morris Pitt, a key figure at Splash Car Washes, shared insights into the company’s journey with CPS® Products. “We were looking for ways to streamline our services and provide better quality maintenance to our customers,” Pitt said. “After seeing positive reviews on YouTube and receiving a strong recommendation from our supplier, we decided to try CPS® Products.”

Splash Car Washes initially adopted the MSX3030 and MSX1234 A/C machines, catering to traditional refrigerants and the newer R1234YF refrigerant used in modern vehicles. These machines have become invaluable tools in their oil change centers, providing efficient and user-friendly solutions for their technicians. MSX3030 is a dual refrigerant with one footprint and two machines.

The integration of CPS® products has brought several benefits to Splash Car Washes.

“One of the main reasons we love these machines is that they are user-friendly,” Pitt said. “Our technicians find them intuitive, with step-by-step guides that make the process smooth and efficient. This

Splash Car Washes

Greenwich, CT

203-324-5400

splashcarwashes.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Oil Change Car Wash

Facility Employees: 1,000

In Business Since: 1980

Number of Locations: 65 car washes; eight oil change facilities

ease of use has improved our cycle time and reduced the learning curve for new employees.”

Another significant advantage of CPS® products is the competitive edge they provide. “Most of our competitors don’t have this type of advanced machinery,” Pitt said.

“Having CPS® products allows us to offer superior services and attract more customers. It’s a win-win situation for everyone.” By staying ahead of the curve, Splash Car Washes ensures that its customers receive the best possible service, further solidifying its position as an industry leader.

The feedback from the staff at Splash Car Washes has been overwhelmingly positive.

“Our employees appreciate how straightforward the CPS® RRR machines are,” Pitt shared. “They are juggling multiple tasks, and when they get to the A/C machines, it’s a relief to have something so easy to operate. It’s made their jobs less stressful and more enjoyable.”

This positive experience extends to customer interactions as well. “Our guys are more comfortable recommending these services to customers because they trust the technology,” Pitt added. “When the employees are happy, the customers are happy, too.”

Support from CPS® has been another crucial factor in successfully adopting their products. “The service we’ve received from CPS®

has been professional and prompt,” Pitt said. “Whenever we’ve had a question or needed assistance, they’ve been there to help. Knowing we can rely on them is reassuring, especially when a customer is waiting.” The strong partnership with CPS® ensures Splash Car Washes can continue to offer topnotch service, backed by reliable and responsive support.

As Splash Car Washes grows, it plans to integrate CPS® products across all its locations. “We’ve used other companies’ equipment in the past, but the technology from CPS® is far superior,” Pitt said. “We see it as a key part of our future.”

Splash Car Washes’ success can be attributed to its high customer satisfaction and operational excellence. The adoption of CPS® products is just the latest chapter in its ongoing journey to provide topnotch car maintenance services.

With 1,000 employees dedicated to maintaining the highest standards, Splash Car Washes continues to set the bar for the industry. It shows how embracing new technologies can drive business growth and enhance customer experiences. As it looks to the future, Splash Car Washes remains committed to staying at the forefront of the car maintenance industry, ensuring its customers receive the best service possible and living up to its slogan: Causing smiles one wash at a time!

Technicians enjoy working with CPS products so much, they recommend the services to customers.

The MSX3030 is an oilless compressor with a built-in refrigerant identifier. It features a 7-inch color touchscreen display, which makes it easy for technicians to use it quickly.

cs@cpsproducts.com

Facebook: @cpsproductsinc

X: @cpsproductsinc

Instagram: @cpsproductsinc

LinkedIn: @cps-products

Morris Pitt, who manages Splash Car Washes, said CPS’s equipment is popular with his staff because there is no steep learning curve.

Airport Auto Body Turns to Equalizer for Training, Tools to Get Techs Up to Speed on Glass

by Autobody News Staff

In 1983, Tony Cavallaro Sr purchased a 3,000-square-foot building on Airport Road in Hartford, CT, which became Airport Road Auto Body. He and his wife, Rita, worked hard to build a reputation for providing exceptional service.

In 2017, the business outgrew its original location and moved to a 34,000-square-foot, state-of-theart facility on Locust Street. The company dropped “Road” from its name, but the team at Airport Auto Body is still known for their dedication to repairing vehicles the right way.

The shop and its technicians are certified by I-CAR and a host of OEMs, and repair 150 to 200 vehicles per month.

Tony Sr. and Rita were later joined in the business by their two sons, Tony Jr. and Joe, who now work as operations manager and service advisor, respectively.

Tony Jr. said he started working in the shop as a young kid, after school and over summer breaks. After high school, he earned a degree in management from Bryant University in Rhode Island, before returning to the family business full time in 2013.

“Seeing the success my parents had with [the business] made me want to pursue it, to continue that success,” Tony Jr. said.

In 2023, Antonio Obando, a tech who has worked at Airport Auto Body since 2019, learned about Equalizer’s Auto Glass Academy in Round Rock, TX, led by Global Education Director Gilbert Gutierrez. The academy’s oneweek, 40-hour course includes classroom and hands-on training in auto glass removal, replacement, repair and calibration, with all tools provided.

Until that point, Airport Auto Body had been using a third-party mobile auto glass service to do that work on the vehicles it repaired. Obando “put a bug in our ear,” Tony Jr. said. “He said ‘Send us out to get that training and we could do this.’

“For the longest time, for whatever reason, I thought glass was

a specialty outside the capabilities of a body technician, but that’s not the case at all,” Tony Jr. “It’s easier than a lot of what they do, as long as they have the right training and equipment.”

Obando was sent to Texas, where he completed the course. When he came back to work, he “started spreading the knowledge,” Tony Jr. said, and other technicians wanted to go too.

A year later, six techs have now completed the training, and Airport Auto Body is reaping the benefits in faster cycle times.

“Having to wait for a third party to come in during disassembly or reassembly and having to pull a technician off the car while they’re working just wasn’t working with the volume we’re doing,” Tony Jr. said. “You have downtime in this industry for whatever reason, and it’s a killer.”

Being able to do that work themselves means “the cars get done much faster,” Tony Jr. said.

“Glass is usually one of the last things you’re doing,” he said. “The [third-party] glass company might not be able to get to a job until next day, so that car’s not going to leave. But if we can do it ourselves, it’s going to go.”

At the Auto Glass Academy, Airport Auto Body’s techs also learned how glass components affect the structural integrity of a vehicle, Tony Jr. said. “It’s important to make sure it’s done right, because the repairs they do really

Airport Auto Body

Hartford, CT

860-296-2639

airportroadautobody.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 40

In Business Since: 1983

Number of Locations: One

Production Space: 34,000 square feet

depend on how well that glass gets put in.”

The techs also learned a few things they had been doing for years that were not best practices. “We learned how important it is to tape pinch weld glass openings so that the glass has a stronger surface to adhere to,” he said.

Tony Jr. said he is now even more confident in Airport Auto Body’s repairs.

“A third-party tech might have glass experience, but I don’t know if a glass company is thinking about the structure of a vehicle and how it’s going to react if it gets hit again,” Tony Jr. said. “I’d rather keep that under our umbrella; I have faith in our technicians.”

Airport Auto Body bought “all the Equalizer tools” — vacuum cups, blades, and cord and wire glass removal tools — which are in a separate toolbox techs can wheel to their station when they need it.

“It’s what the techs were trained on, so that’s what they felt the most comfortable with,” he said.

Over the past year, the techs at Airport Auto Body haven’t run into a glass-related repair they couldn’t handle as a team, Tony Jr. said, and haven’t had to reach out to Equalizer’s support team for help.

“The class is very informative and well-run, judging by our techs,” Tony Jr. said. “They come back and feel like they can handle anything we need to do.”

Technician Emanuel Rivera uses a urethane gun to apply urethane to a rear liftgate glass before installation.

After six Airport Auto Body techs completed the course at Equalizer’s Auto Glass Academy, the shop invested in a toolbox full of the same tools they had been trained to use.

Facebook: @equalizertools

X: @equalizertools

Instagram: @equalizertools

YouTube: @equalizervideo

Airport Auto Body has been serving Hartford, CT, since 1983. It moved into its current 34,000-square-foot location in 2017.

Hunter Engineering Helps Superior Auto Body Keep Vehicle Calibrations In-House

by Autobody News Staff

Superior Auto Body is an independent, family-owned business in West Virginia’s Jefferson County. Owner Doug Bowman opened the shop in 1994, but his passion for cars dates back to his years in high school in the mid-1970s, when he worked part-time at a local dealership, washing cars and helping out in the body shop.

“I would go to school during the day, then wash cars ‘til the dealership closed down — and at that point, I’d go work in the body shop all evening,” Bowman said.

After graduating, he continued to learn his trade, gaining experience working in the body shops of dealerships and independent businesses, before deciding it was time to open his own business. Bowman said when he first opened Superior Auto Body, he was renting space from a car-wrecker. Over time, he was able to buy the whole property and expand into adjoining properties as well.

Having tripled its original footprint, Superior Auto Body is now a thriving business, currently repairing 50 cars per month on average.

“We’ve always been a family business and when I started here I did everything myself, from the estimating through the delivery,” Bowman said. “Now we have 13 employees and I’m very proud of my team. My daughter has been working for me for the last five years. She’s pretty much running the office and the shop, so it’s very much a family business.”

Bowman said the Superior Auto Body business model is to focus on their local market, located within 60 miles of both Washington D.C. and Baltimore, MD, and home to many government employees who commute to their jobs in the city. He said building solid relationships with his customers is what has helped his business grow and remain strong.

“Our goals and our visions are always to do the right thing — do the right repairs at a fair price,” says Bowman. “Everybody makes mistakes at times. But when that happens we’re not afraid to own

up and make it right. Because of that, I’m still doing work for people who I started with years ago.”

As a shop that has been in business for decades, Superior Auto Body has seen a lot of technological change. Over time, vehicles have become increasingly complex, with advanced features like Automatic Emergency Braking (AEB) that require incredible precision to calibrate. Bowman originally sublet that calibration work, which meant sending vehicles out of the shop. But as those advanced features became more common, he began to experience problems with that system.

Besides increasing expenses and slowing down repair times, he found cars often came back to his shop improperly calibrated. In 2021, he decided it was time to bring vehicle calibration and alignment in-house where he would have control over the quality of the work.

After extensive research, visiting conferences and trade shows, Bowman decided to commit to Hunter Engineering, purchasing the DAS 3000 ADAS Fixture for calibrations, the Hawkeye Elite® Alignment Machine and ADASLink®, Hunter Engineering’s premium full-diagnostic scan tool. He was initially impressed with the training that came with the equipment, which prepared the shop techs to use the equipment effectively, but Bowman said the support didn’t end there.

“Hunter Engineering’s support

and their people and their service — they’re right on key,” he said. “We don’t have a lot of problems, but anytime we have an issue, we can call them up and we might even see them the same day.”

Since bringing calibration inhouse, Bowman has seen a couple of big changes. The first is faster repair times.

“Using the Hunter equipment has sped up the repair process immensely,” Bowman said. “We can pull out the ADASLink® and see right away what calibrations are going to be required and get right to work on it.”

Ultimately, though, Bowman said performing calibrations with Hunter Engineering equipment gives him peace of mind, knowing the job has been done correctly.

“We know that when we send a car back to the customer it is going to be properly calibrated,” he said. “They were failing quite often when we were sending them to the dealer for calibration, and a vehicle being properly calibrated can be the difference between life and death — it’s that important.”

These days, Bowman is feeling very positive about his business, and he sees his purchase of Hunter Engineering equipment as a solid investment that has more than paid off.

“In our situation, Hunter Engineering is second to none. I have no regrets, and we’re still growing with this equipment. I think this was the best product out there for us — and it still is.”

Superior Auto Body Ranson, WV

304-725-2900

www.superiorautobodywv.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 13

In Business Since: 1994

Number of Locations: One

Production Space: 12,000 square feet

Keeping calibrations in-house means

Hunter Engineering Co. 314-731-0000

www.hunter.com

contact.hunter@hunter.com

Facebook: @hunterengineeringcompany

Instagram: @hunterengineering

LinkedIn: @hunter-engineering

YouTube: @HunterEngCo

Owner Doug Bowman said Hunter Engineering equipment has greatly sped up the repair process.

Superior Auto Body employees know the work has been done properly.

Superior Auto Body proudly serves Jefferson County in West Virginia.

I-CAR Helps Huntington Beach’s Gustafson Brothers Stay Ahead of the Curve

by Autobody News Staff

Like many automotive repair shops, Gustafson Brothers began with a couple of boys working out of their father’s garage. Brothers Frank and John Gustafson eventually grew out of the garage and officially founded their company in 1971. The shop was situated in Huntington Beach, CA, where John Gustafson is still very present in his role as president.

Trish Ostrander, Gustafson Brothers’ training and marketing manager, said the business has come a long way since those early days. According to Ostrander, it now operates on two sites. One site provides mechanical services, while the other, almost three acres, provides mechanical and auto body services. Combined, the business services around 750 cars per month.

Ostrander said the company’s long-term success is tied to the business’s core values of help first, world-class service, and loyalty to its community.

“We stay very competitive due to our being a champion shop. We are very loyal. People know that they can come here, and they’re not going to get misguided. We have guests that have been coming to us for decades; that’s something we pride ourselves on,” said Ostrander.

One aspect of that local commitment is Gustafson Brothers’ role in providing youth education in the community. The Huntington Beach High School (HBHS) auto tech class takes place at the Gustafson Brothers’ facility, and a long-time employee, David Baylor, has become CTE credentialed to teach the class.

“Our collaboration with HBHS has been remarkable since the first wrench turned,” said Ostrander. “We’ve witnessed students dive head first into the intricate world of automotive mechanics, learning invaluable skills from the tires up. They have mastered the nuances of suspension systems to troubleshoot and repair some of their vehicles confidently.”

That passion for education runs through the whole culture of the company, attested to by the company’s longstanding relationship with I-CAR. The international nonprofit organization has a mission to provide the information, knowledge and

skills required to perform complete, safe and quality repairs.

“We began with I-CAR in 1993,” said Ostrander, “and our location is among the elite 1% of Gold Class shops (the highest role-relevant training for business designation recognized by the collision repair industry) that have maintained status for over 30 years. John [Gustafson] is very passionate about education, and every employee is required to have four hours of training per quarter.”

Most technicians and estimators at Gustafson Brothers have achieved I-CAR Platinum recognition, the highest level of role-relevant training for technicians. Ostrander credits that training with keeping the business ready to take on the new technology the automotive industry is continuously developing.

“We want to stay up to date on what’s relevant, and I-CAR helps us do that. The training is above par and keeps us well ahead of the curve. For example, we had people training on EVs before most shops were thinking about that. I-CAR keeps their training updated, and that’s of huge value to us,” said Ostrander.

While I-CAR training helps keep Gustafson Brothers’ business future-ready, the training is also of huge benefit for its employees, who are acquiring knowledge and skills that will make them highly employable in the future.

“Our goal is to keep them here as family. But if for some reason they leave, this training goes with them everywhere, and it will advance them. Ultimately, better training leads to better pay, it is a part of their

career path,” said Ostrander.

Gustafson Brothers has such a strong relationship with I-CAR, they were asked to be an early adopter for the new I-CAR Academy program, the first industry-neutral, comprehensive early career program designed specifically to attract, train and retain technicians.

“It’s an on-the-job training apprenticeship program that provides the fundamentals and the curriculum as they start. Now they can start out with that extra knowledge of ‘why’ things work in conjunction with their hands-on training. They’ll master their craft quicker with this duo,” said Ostrander.

Because of her position, Ostrander has been in contact with many people at different levels of the I-CAR organization, and she speaks very highly of the culture at I-CAR.

“It’s a wonderful organization. I think a lot of people don’t realize that some of I-CAR’s activities are carried out by volunteers,” Ostrander said. “All my interactions have been great.”

Unlike some organizations that, over the years, become entrenched in a certain way of doing things, Ostrander said I-CAR actively seeks input from the industry, looking for feedback and hearing about their experiences. This openness creates a mutually beneficial relationship between I-CAR and Gustafson Brothers, bound by a shared love of learning, that promises to continue into the foreseeable future.

“They’re just very honored that we’ve had this Gold Class recognition for over 30 years,” says Ostrander, “and we love working with them.”

Gustafson Brothers Huntington Beach, CA 714-847-5600

gustafsonbros.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Mechanical & Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 68

In Business Since: 1971

Number of Locations: Two

Combined Production Space: 87,000 square feet

The shop is proud to be in an elite group of businesses that have maintained I-CAR Gold Class status for more than 30 years.

www. i-car.com/academyshops

Facebook: @icareducation

X: @I_CAR_Education

Instagram: @icareducation

LinkedIn: @company/i-car

YouTube: @user/icartraining

Gustafson Brothers’ passion for education has led the shop to host the local high school’s auto tech class.

Gustafson Brothers has served Huntington Beach, CA, since 1971.

Home of the Original Mini-Ductor

Inductor Max®

Release all types of adhesives bonded to the metal without the collateral damage of open flame with the Inductor Max Kit. The kit is completely portable with the induction inverter mounted in a carry case. It offers audible and visual power indicators. Do it Better - Do it Faster - Do it Safer - Do it Greener!

Applications:

> Auto Glass

> Spray-in Bedliners

> Seam Sealers

> Vinyl Graphics

> Hail Dents

> Body Side Moldings

> Pinstriping

Induction Innovations Revolutionizes Removing Stubborn Bolts and Nuts Without Open Flames

by Autobody News Staff

Anthony Harlin, master technician at University Automotive in Sacramento, CA, never thought he would be working on cars. His work life had been an assortment of jobs spread out across industries including retail management, roofing and construction. Fixing cars? That was never on his radar.

One ordinary afternoon, while eating lunch at home, a commercial flickered on the TV that would change everything. “I had no interest in working on cars,” Harlin recalled. “I tried one time, got stuck in the middle of the night, and vowed I’d never work on a car ever again. But something about that commercial called to me. It was so weird because I had no interest in working on cars. But it just pulled me in.”

That commercial showcased a local automotive training program. Curiosity piqued, Harlin visited the program’s website and read every word. Something resonated deeply within him. “I went down there within the next couple of days and signed up,” he said.

Harlin’s decision 20 years ago led him to a new path. For the first time, he felt he had a career. The work was challenging, but he found himself thriving in the environment. He enjoyed the hands-on nature of the job and the satisfaction of solving mechanical problems.

University Automotive is a sprawling 20,000-square-foot facility with 10,000 square feet dedicated to production space. The shop boasts 14 car bays and employs 16. According to Harlin, University Automotive is unique in that it cultivates a culture where mistakes don’t become habits, focusing on continuous improvement and employee development.

Over his time working at University Automotive, another passion emerged as he delved deeper into the auto repair world.

One day, Harlin searched YouTube for videos on repairing EcoDiesel engines and found only a couple of videos that weren’t particularly relevant to what he was looking for. “There was nothing,” he said. “So I thought, I’m going to make my channel and teach people how to do this.”

With the support of his wife, Harlin started recording his first

video. But initial attempts were shaky. “I went in Monday morning and started recording, but I thought I sounded stupid and threw my phone in my toolbox,” he said.

A week later, with some components still visible on an engine he was working on, he decided to give it another shot. This time, he imagined he was teaching a coworker named Darren, whom he had been mentoring since Darren started as an oil change guy. Pretending to explain things to Darren made the process easier. He hit “upload.”

Fast forward four years, and the Nuts & Bolts with Tone YouTube channel boasts tens of thousands of followers and hundreds of videos, with some short-style videos racking up millions of views each. His content ranges from detailed tutorials to quick tips, all aimed at making car repair more accessible.

One of the standout tools Harlin showcased is the Mini Ducter Venom HP from Induction Innovations, which he aptly named the “best tool to remove rusted nuts and bolts” from the name of the video review. This tool has revolutionized how quickly and safely stubborn bolts, nuts, bearings and fasteners can be removed by removing rust without the danger of an open flame.

“Before, dealing with exhaust bolts or nuts was a nightmare,” Harlin said. “You’d have to go to your drawer full of expensive tools, risk breaking things, and end up drilling and tapping for hours trying to fix a broken bolt.”

With the Mini Ducter Venom HP, that hassle disappeared. “You

heat it up, and in about 40 seconds, the bolt is red hot, he said. Grab your gun, zap it right out, and everything comes off. The best part is, when you’re done, everything goes back in the same way. No misaligned threads, no extra drilling. It’s like magic.”

Harlin’s enthusiasm for the tool is evident. “The key is that when you’re done, everything goes back in. Same bolts, bolted back up. Usually, threads misalign, but with this product, you take them out and they go right back in.”

The tool has become a favorite in the shop, with other mechanics frequently borrowing it. “It’s quicker to heat up the bolt and take it off than it is to get the tool out and put it away,” Harlin joked. “And when you re done, the threads look brand new. There’s no discoloration. It’s amazing.”

Harlin’s journey from a man who vowed never to touch a car engine to a skilled mechanic and trusted voice within the auto repair industry has taken years of work. Over these years and among the hundreds of tools he has reviewed, the Induction Innovations Mini Ducter Venom HP tool stands out as an essential piece of equipment in his arsenal. It has transformed hours of frustrating labor into a quick and easy task, and Harlin loves sharing its benefits with others.

As Harlin continues to grow his channel and share his expertise, he remains dedicated to helping others navigate the often daunting world of car repair along with the help of companies like Induction Innovations, which continues to push the industry forward with its products.

University Automotive Sacramento, CA 916-488-6710

www.universityautomotive.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Auto Repair

Facility Employees: 16

In Business Since: 1998

Number of Locations: One

Production Space: 10,000 square feet

Induction Innovations 877-688-9633

www.theinductor.com

Facebook: @InductionInnovations

X: @invisibleheat

Instagram: @induction_innovations

LinkedIn: @induction-innovations-inc

YouTube: @InvisibleHeat

Anthony Harlin uses the Mini Ducter Venom HP to work on a vehicle.

University Automotive employs 16, including Anthony Harlin, center.

University Automotive in Sacramento, CA, cultivates a culture where mistakes don’t become habits.

Classic Paint & Body’s Partnership with Kaizen Glass Solutions Elevates Service Quality

by Autobody News Staff

Since acquiring their body shop in 2021, co-owners Wayne Goff and Charlie Ashcraft have grown Classic Paint & Body into a highly respected establishment in Wichita Falls, TX. Originating as a single-location venture, the shop now boasts three locations, including a mechanic shop, screen printing and embroidery services and a used car lot. Their passion for cars and commitment to excellence has been the driving force behind their success.

Their attention to detail and customer-centric approach have earned them numerous accolades within the community. By continuously investing in their staff and facilities, they have managed to stay ahead of industry trends and set new standards in service quality.

A significant milestone in Classic Paint & Body’s journey was their decision to invest in their team and equipment. A key figure in this strategy was William Dunkin, their expert windshield technician, who started with the company in 2022. Recognizing the need for specialized training and top-tier products, Goff and Ashcraft sent Dunkin to Kaizen Glass Solutions for advanced training.

Kaizen Glass Solutions, renowned for its comprehensive glass training programs, provided Dunkin with in-depth knowledge and hands-on experience using the latest auto glass tools. This training enabled Classic Paint & Body to stop outsourcing glass repair work, which had been a costly necessity due to a lack of in-house expertise. The investment in KaizenGlass Solutions has paid off remarkably. The Classic Paint & Body team has significantly improved their workflow by integrating the WRD® Bat Cord Removal Tool, WRD® Scraper Set, and several other tools. Renowned for their efficiency and precision, these tools have enhanced the shop’s repair cycle times and overall productivity.

Classic Paint & Body

Wichita Falls, TX 940-723-5900

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: Nine

In Business Since: 2021

Number of Locations: Three

Combined Production Space: 4,050 square feet

“Our goal has always been to provide the highest quality of repairs,” said Goff. “From the tape we use to the oil in our engines, we ensure every product meets our strict standards. Kaizen’s tools and training have helped us uphold this commitment, saving us time and improving customer satisfaction.”

By integrating these advanced tools, the team has minimized repair times and reduced the margin for error, which has translated into quicker turnaround times for customers and increased business throughput.

Classic Paint & Body’s approach to business is deeply rooted in its commitment to quality and customer care. Despite the competitive landscape in Wichita Falls, with major players like Joe Hudson and Caliber Collision, Classic Paint and Body thrives due to its high standards and impeccable reputation.

“We run our shop like a dealership,” Goff explained. “We have top-notch technicians, from I-CAR to ASE-certified, and our customer reviews reflect our dedication. We believe in doing the right thing, which sets us apart.”

The feedback from the staff about Kaizen Glass Solutions

has been extremely positive. Their training program, support, and the tools they provide have quickly positioned Classic Paint & Body ahead of local competitors who are only just beginning to adopt similar technologies.

Moreover, Kaizen’s support is vital. The ongoing certifications and technical support have bolstered the shop’s confidence in delivering superior repairs. This synergy between Classic Paint & Body and Kaizen Glass Solutions exemplifies the benefits of investing in quality products and training.

Goff and Ashcraft are proud of their team and their progress. With plans to expand and further enhance their services, they remain committed to their core values: excellence, reliability and customer satisfaction.

“Our employees are the backbone of our success,” Goff said. “We wouldn’t be where we are without them, and we’ll continue to invest in their growth and the best products to better serve our customers.”

With a passion for excellence, commitment to quality and an investment in quality strategic partnerships like Kaizen Glass Solutions, Classic Paint & Body has a strong future ahead.

mastered the V-Bead urethane

Kaizen Glass Solutions

512-843-1416

www.kaizenglasssolutions.com

Facebook: @kaizenglasssolution

Instagram: @kaizen_glass_solutions

LinkedIn: @kaizen-glass-solutions

Jason Horne, left, an instructor at Kaizen Glass Solutions, discusses the benefits of the Meritool PowerPush Urethane Caulking Gun with Dunkin, right, and a fellow student, center.

Dunkin

application using the Meritool PowerPush Urethane Caulking Gun during the training.

Following Kaizen Glass Solutions training, William Dunkin is applying the points he learned to bring auto glass services in-house to Classic Paint & Body’s operations.

KECO GPR

Collision Systems

Tailored systems, unmatched precision, crafted for your shop.

Technician

Companion

KECO GPR Helps G&C Auto Body Stay at the Forefront of Technology

by Autobody News Staff

Following a stint in the Air Force where he honed skills as a painter, Gene Crozat landed a job at a northern California body shop in the late ’60s. He later moved to his hometown of Santa Rosa to work at a local Datsun dealership.

In 1972, unhappy with the circumstances of their employment, Crozat and a coworker, body man Leo Gassell, quit their jobs and opened G&C Auto Body across the street from their former employer. The business flourished, quickly earning a reputation for quality workmanship and customer satisfaction. Upon his retirement, Gassell sold his shares to Crozat, who kept the name intact.

“My dad didn’t want to change the business name,” recalled COO Patrick Crozat, the youngest of four siblings, all of whom hold key positions within the company. “We had an established reputation and brand recognition, and he felt that was important to preserve.” It was a smart move.

From humble beginnings, G&C’s Santa Rosa flagship campus now encompasses five acres housing two 25,000-square-foot buildings — including a state-ofthe-art, Spanish-style main facility.

At the urging of his eldest brother, Shawn — whose vision as CEO was to expand upon their father’s legacy to ensure the family’s future — they embarked on a slow-growth strategy, opening two satellite shops in the mid-’90s. “We sat on these locations through the early 2000s,” said Crozat.

But keen on taking G&C to the next level, they began opening two new locations yearly. By 2019, they had 15 locations. With the pandemic onset, things changed dramatically.

“Shawn had spent years cultivating relationships with singleshop operators. When COVID hit, they started calling and wanted out,” said Crozat. “At the time, a lot of venture capitalists wanted to get into the industry. But Shawn, my brother Josh and I said why don’t we grow too.” And so they did.

G&C’s reach now includes 43 family-owned body shops strategically located within 14

G&C’s Santa Rosa flagship campus encompasses five acres housing two 25,000-square-foot buildings, including the state-of the-art headquarters. Together, the facilities contain a full production shop, body shops, mechanical department, ADAS calibration, paint shop, aluminum clean room and a family-owned calibration business.

counties. With a staff of 650 employees, the stores collectively churn out roughly 2,800 vehicles monthly.

As a top-tier enterprise, G&C holds OEM certifications from Mercedes-Benz and Telsa. Both the company and its employees have earned I-CAR Gold Class status, a point of pride for Crozat.

“As the chief operating officer, I’ve always been passionate about training and equipment. All of our technicians, our estimators, managers, everybody is Gold Class certified,” he said. “For the stores to be Gold Class certified, all staff has to be certified and it’s also mandatory with a lot of our insurance partners. So we invest heavily in equipment and training.”

Case in point: G&C recently made a hefty investment in KECO’s top-of-the-line L2E Glue Pull Repair Collision System, purchasing one system for each of its 43 stores. The system includes on-site training as part of the package cost.

“Glue pulling or PDR has been around for a long time, but it was always a specialty job for third-party PDR people. It wasn’t embraced by the body shop side because it was foreign to technicians. They wanted to grind off the paint, use their stud and nail guns to pull out the metal the old-fashioned way,” said Crozat, who noted some of G&C’s insurance partners are now

G&C Auto Body Santa Rosa, CA 707-525-3520

gandcautobody.com

Company At A Glance... Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 650

In Business Since: 1972

Number of Locations: 43

Combined Production Space: 344,000 square feet

urging shops to employ a glue pull process. “The exterior sheet metals used in vehicles nowadays are thinner. Aluminum is becoming more prevalent, so in order to repair these panels, Glue Pull is paramount.

“It helps keep the original panel intact on the vehicle. It’s less intrusive [because] you don’t have to deal with a welder that will burn through the e-coating on the backside of the panel, so there are no corrosion issues down the road,” Crozat said. “And because you use less filler on a panel, there’s less chance of damaging the factory paint.”

While noting he had purchased a few GPR systems in the past that largely went unused, Crozat said KECO’s training helped gain technician acceptance.

“KECO’s instructor did a phenomenal job,” Crozat said. “He hosted 17 courses to train all of our technicians on how to use the equipment. The classes really helped the technicians feel comfortable using the product and seeing its benefits. And as they see other technicians embracing it, it becomes the new norm.

“The product is great. The training was professional and well thought out. We want to be progressive in repair methodology. To fix the latest technology vehicles, you have to have the latest technology.”

KECO trainer

demonstrates how to repair a damaged hood using the L2E GPR Collision Repair System during a training session held at G&C’s Freemont facility.

KECO Body Repair Products 888-532-6822

Company Contact: Scott Stayton www.kecotabs.com

Facebook: @KECOBodyRepairProducts X: @kecotabs

Instagram: @kecodentrepair

LinkedIn: @keco-body-repair-products

YouTube: @KECOBodyRepairProducts

Danny Hacker

Dillon Turner, a technician at G&C’s Berkley facility, uses Glue Pull to straighten a panel.

Parts

Repair

OEM

Experience

Scan

Rick’s Paint & Body Transforms Repair Quality with OEC’s RepairLogic

by Autobody News Staff

In Augusta, GA, Rick’s Paint & Body has earned a reputation as a best-in-class collision repair facility. This leading collision repair shop stays ahead with OEC’s RepairLogic and top-notch certifications.

Since its founding in 1976, the shop has grown into a 40,000-square-foot operation with 68 employees, offering top-tier service to the community. Katie and Tyler Smith own and operate Rick’s Paint & Body, leading the industry by adopting innovative technologies and maintaining numerous OEC Certified Repair Network certifications.

Katie and Tyler’s professional partnership began in 2003 following Tyler’s graduation from Clemson University. They first launched a landscaping company, growing it from a twoperson operation to a thriving business with 20-25 employees before selling it. Building on their experience, they decided to acquire the family auto shop from Katie’s father, Rusty

Tyler Smith, the shop’s coowner, shared the shop’s journey into the collision repair industry. With an acquisition plan in place, the Smiths moved to the area to work alongside Rusty, learning the ins and outs of the collision repair industry. During the seven years of working with Rusty, they grew in their knowledge and officially took over the shop in 2019.

Rick’s Paint & Body is a longtime customer of OEC and early adopters of the RepairLogic repair planning platform. “We’ve seen it grow and evolve, and being a part of that journey has been fun. It’s been a game changer for us,” said Smith.

Smith explained the significant impact of RepairLogic on their operations: “RepairLogic has transformed how we handle repair procedures,” he said. “The data is more up-to-date than other popular services and incredibly easy to access. We can create detailed repair plans that are easily downloadable and ensure we’re following OEM post-collision repair instructions, which creates safer and more comprehensive repairs.”

Using RepairLogic has been a game changer for Rick’s Paint & Body, allowing it to continue its tradition of service excellence and commitment to the quality and safety of its repairs.

The shop’s adoption of RepairLogic was driven by a need for more efficient and accurate repair procedures.

“Before using RepairLogic, we had to pull repair procedures from various websites, and the data often seemed outdated,” Smith said. “RepairLogic, with the backing of the OEMs, provided the most updated procedures, increasing the quality of our repairs and ensuring they meet OEM requirements. It has also boosted the confidence of our estimators and blueprinters, as they feel well-supported and can show customers exactly what was done to their vehicles.”

OEC sent a consultant to Rick’s Paint & Body to train and familiarize the team with the platform. Smith said OEC’s on-site presence has been invaluable. “They helped us change the flow of our processes and provided a second set of eyes on things,” Smith added.

The shop has also benefited from the training and support provided by OEC. “They offered a lot of online and virtual training, and if we ever have a question, we get clarification and an answer very quickly. OEC ranks highly in terms of support,” Smith said.

RepairLogic’s user-friendliness has been a hit among Rick’s Paint & Body technicians. Smith said their technicians use RepairLogic on their tablets to pull up repair procedures and follow them step by step. This technology integration has not only streamlined the repair process but has also enhanced the accuracy and reliability of the repairs performed.

Overall, the RepairLogic repair planning platform enhances vehicle repair by providing quick access to OEM information, digital collaboration tools and advanced documentation. It is more than twice as fast as traditional methods, with automatic inclusion of more than half of the necessary procedures.

The RepairLogic repair planning platform consolidates information from multiple sources, improving consistency and repair quality. Shop teams report increased research frequency and better repair outcomes. It also optimizes parts procurement by identifying onetime use parts, reducing missed items and improving profitability.

Smith emphasized their commitment to using the latest technology and following stringent repair procedures has set them apart in the industry.

“Following the repair procedures and ensuring we adhere to OEM guidelines creates a safer and more comprehensive repair plan. We must provide our customers with the highest quality repairs, and RepairLogic helps us achieve that,” he said.

Rick’s Paint & Body has embraced cutting-edge technology and maintained numerous OEC Certified Repair Network certifications, bolstering its commitment to excellence. As a trusted name in collision repair, it sets high standards and delivers outstanding service to its customers in Augusta and beyond, continually striving to improve and innovate in their field.

Rick’s Paint & Body Augusta, GA 706-868-9904

rickspaintandbody.com

Company At A Glance... Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 68

In Business Since: 1976

Number of Locations: One

Production Space: 40,000 square feet

As early adopters of OEC’s RepairLogic, Rick’s Paint & Body owners Katie and Tyler Smith rely on its up-to-date data to deliver the highest-quality repair to their customers.

The technicians at Rick’s Paint & Body love the user-friendliness and easy accessibility of the repair procedures on their tablets.

Facebook: @OECvehiclesolutions

LinkedIn: @oec-solutions

YouTube: @oec-solutions

Visit OEC at SEMA booth 32231

Outstanding performance, high-accuracy color, and tough durability … all from a waterborne system?

Utilizing the latest technologies means that PPG’s Envirobase High Performance waterborne paint system is easy to use and packed with benefits. Compatible with PPG’s digital tools, this advanced system helps body shops to increase their productivity potential by up to 15% while achieving an accurate OEM color match and a flawless finish every time.

Experience the benefits of PPG Envirobase High Performance, the most flexible paint system on the market.

Kendrick Paint & Body Evolves Its Refinish Operation with PPG’s MoonWalk System

by Autobody News Staff

Kendrick Paint & Body was founded in 1952 by James Kendrick, as a single-stall repair shop in Augusta, GA. Seventy-two years later, it has grown to nine auto body shops — five in Augusta, where its corporate headquarters are located, one each in the neighboring towns of Evans and Martinez and two more in Aiken, SC — with plans to open a 10th in 2024.

All Kendrick shops are I-CAR Gold Class certified, and several employees have achieved Platinum certification. The business also has 14 OEM certifications.

Kendrick has been a familyrun operation since its founding. When James retired, his sons, Jimmy and Steve Sr., took the reins. Now, Steve Sr.’s son, Steve Jr., is running the show. His daughter, Ansley, graduated from college in 2022 and is now vice president of operations, learning the ins and outs of the company to one day step up and become the fourth generation to run it.

CEO David Clark said Ansley is a big proponent of exploring new technology and embracing the innovations that can improve Kendrick’s processes.

“She’s really challenging us to make sure we’re staying on the forefront,” Clark said.

As a result of that openness to new ideas, Kendrick recently switched to PPG from its previous paint vendor of 50 years. While the shop was still pleased with its previous vendor’s product, it was PPG’s MoonWalk automated paint-mixing system that pushed Kendrick to make the change.

The MoonWalk system takes an image of a vehicle panel, captured with a DigiMatch spectrophotometer, and uses it to create a matching formula. A technician then loads the required toners on a dispensing rack, which MoonWalk uses to automatically dispense the exact amount of each toner needed.

Before switching to PPG, Kendrick had a paint-mixing station with a full inventory of toners in each of its five shops in downtown Augusta. Now it has two MoonWalk systems that mix paint for those five shops. Eventually, those two systems will service all of Kendrick’s operations

Kendrick Paint & Body

Augusta, GA 706-724-4071

kendrickbodyshop.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 205

In Business Since: 1952

Number of Locations: Nine

Combined Production Space:

250,000 square feet

in the Augusta and Aiken markets.

“Steve Jr.’s father and uncle at one time had a guy who did all the mixing centrally, so painters wouldn’t mix their own,” Clark said. “It’s something we weren’t unfamiliar with, but now we’re using technology to get back into that.”

Clark said some of Kendrick’s painters were wary of losing control of the paint mix, but now that they’ve seen how easy — and accurate — it is, he doesn’t think they would ever agree to go back to the old way.

“The way this system works, a painter can go out and take a camera shot of a panel that needs to be painted, upload it to the computer, along with the amount of ounces they need, and push it over to the centralized mix room,” Clark said. “The team there mixes that color to exactly what the painter needs, then delivers it to the painter. It’s become basically the Amazon for our paint department.”

Clark said that took a simple but sometimes time-consuming task out of the hands of the painters, who can use that time instead to do what they’re most skilled at — painting cars.

“We’re probably saving 45 minutes a day per painter in mixing color, or about five hours a week, which could essentially be one extra booth cycle a day,” Clark said. “We’re just trying to figure out the most effective ways to allow our skilled talent to perform to the highest level every day.”

The MoonWalk system also reduces overpours, improves accuracy of the mix, and reduces waste, as it uses “99.95% of the

product inside the bottle,” Clark said.

Overall, the team at Kendrick has seen improvements in quality, efficiency and cost containment.

“It’s next-level for us,” Clark said.

“In the next day, we’ll hit 1,000 mixes [with the MoonWalk system],” Clark said. “The efficiency piece of it is just insane, and getting better and better every day as our team figures out ways to test the boundaries of it.”

The team at Kendrick is also happy with the PPG Envirobase High Performance waterborne paint system.

“PPG developed a modifier to add to the base coat which enhances their product to be a one-visit application, so that was a game changer for us,” Clark said. “At that point, product-to-product, it was a head-to-head battle [with the previous vendor.]”

The color match has been spot-on, Clark said. “I have not heard of any issues at all and I don’t expect to, due to the accuracy of the pours every time.”

Kendrick enjoys a great relationship with the business support team at PPG, including Jason Lowry, strategic accounts director — who started his career training at Kendrick as a young paint sales representative — and trainers who have worked with technicians, managers and customer service representatives.

“We were really looking for support with business development, and PPG had a strong team of people we felt would help us navigate through that,” Clark said. “From a support piece, we felt PPG was a step ahead.”

picture of a vehicle’s finish with the DigiMatch spectrophotometer, which will then be used to create the right formula.

Janice Williamson uses the PPG MoonWalk to precisely measure and mix toners.

Bryan Thompson captures a

Kendrick Paint & Body in Augusta, GA, switched to PPG for its MoonWalk automated paint-mixing system, leading to improvements in quality, efficiency and cost containment.

Since 1994, Pro Spot has lead the way with adjustable boom technology when we introduced the PR-10 with a hydraulic adjustable boom.

Introducing the Ergo Lift Assist. The tallest and most versatile adjustable boom available, designed specifically for vehicles with high profile roof lines.

Gateway Auto Service Recommends Pro Spot’s Innovative Tools for Quality Repairs

by Autobody News Staff

Established in 1995, Gateway Auto Service has three locations in the Chicago area and a well-earned reputation in its community for providing excellent service, offering a full range of automotive repair services, from a routine oil change to a complete engine overhaul, as well as high-quality body shop work.

Gateway Auto Service uses state-of-the-art equipment, and its expert technicians are factorytrained. The company stands behind all the high-quality work it does, as evidenced by its many positive online reviews.

The shop’s manager, Shadi Qattawi, is a 30-year veteran of the collision repair industry. Qattawi studied automotive and collision repair at the Theodor Schneller School, which specializes in German vehicles.

Qattawi said excellent customer service is key. He has ensured Gateway Auto Service leads the area with the very best customer service, creating a significant amount of repeat business, and establishing a great reputation in the community.

Qattawi said because Gateway Auto Service provides service for all makes of vehicles, this provides an advantage over competitors. Additionally, the shop stays up-to-date on all of the latest automotive technology and advancements, with frequent training for the shop’s technicians.

Among Gateway Auto Service’s innovative tools of choice are several from Pro Spot International.

Qattawi said Pro Spot offers a wide range of highly useful and high-quality tools for collision repair and that it was hard to pick a favorite or focus on just a few. Qattawi and the staff at Gateway Auto Service absolutely love all of Pro Spot’s tools and they highly recommend Pro Spot.

Qattawi called out Pro Spot’s customer service as excellent, frequently going above and beyond to provide world-class service to its automotive body shop customers. Additionally, Qattawi complimented Pro Spot on its world-class training programs, which keep automotive body shop technicians fully prepared to use the tools properly and in the most effective ways.

Gateway Auto Service Chicago, IL 773-342-7105

gatewayautochicago.net

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 25

In Business Since: 1995

Number of Locations: Three

Combined Production Space: 40,000 square feet

One Pro Spot tool used frequently at Gateway Auto Service is the new Pro Spot i5s Smart Spot Welding System. It is the next generation of automotive welding technology, equipped with robust on-board training resources.

The i5s Smart Spot Welding System is a transformer-gun spot welder, water-cooled to the tips. Its fingertip controls allow users to quickly adjust settings and increase productivity. An ergonomic design allows limitless positioning of the gun and arms. With built-in Wi-Fi, it receives instant software updates.

The Pro Spot i5s Smart Spot Welding System is a must for any fully equipped automotive body shop.

Pro Spot recently introduced a revolutionary new motorized boom for spot welding applications.

Designed for both i5 and i5s welders, Pro Spot’s Ergo Lift Assist System (ELA) makes spot welding easy on today’s high reach vehicles. The ELA is designed to reach higher and lower than conventional booms.

Danraj Bhupdeo, an auto technician at Gateway, is a big fan of Pro Spot’s VAC-U-PULL Dent Pulling System.

“I can pull pretty big dents,” Bhupdeo said. “It rolls around and sticks to the floor good. It makes my work easier, super easier.”

The VAC-U-PULL tower is lightweight and easy to move. Its proprietary vacuum system creates a powerful airtight seal on the floor. This makes pulling dents easy and effective, with maximum pulling power.

Pro Spot’s tools are proudly made in the U.S. Top quality is a priority for the company. Competitors

producing tools in other countries have not come close to Pro Spot’s reputation for top quality.

Established in 1986, Pro Spot is well known and respected as a global leader providing advanced collision repair applications in the automotive industry. The company owns multiple patents for revolutionary welding equipment.

Pro Spot has been awarded an impressive number of OEM approvals.

Located in Carlsbad, CA, Pro Spot’s facility includes design, engineering, machine and sheet metal shops, powder coating, assembly, training and the very best customer support. Pro Spot also has manufacturing operations in Mexico, Germany and Italy. The company boasts a global network of sales, training and distribution centers, making it a true world leader.

The Pro Spot equipment line includes pulse MIG welders, resistance spot welders, dust-free sanding systems, aluminum and steel dent repair systems, rivet guns and tools, fume extraction, plastic repair and much more.

Pro Spot recognizes the need for automotive body repair shops to receive ongoing training for its products. All of Pro Spot’s distributors and their technicians receive frequent and up-to-date training on all Pro Spot products. The company developed two ASE-certified training programs that are I-CAR-approved.

Pro Spot’s Carlsbad location offers a fully equipped training facility, for any user of Pro Spot products to come in and receive expert advice and training.

Pro Spot International 760-407-1414

prospot.com

Facebook: @prospotinternational

Instagram: @prospotwelding

X: @prospotwelding

LinkedIn: @prospot

YouTube: @prospotwelding

Pro Spot’s VAC-U-PULL is a game changer at Gateway Auto.

The Gateway team frequently uses Pro Spot’s tools.

The team at Gateway Auto Service in Chicago was excited to take delivery of new Pro Spot tools.

SATA® air visionTM 5000

The SATA air vision 5000 puts the focus on effective health protection and lets you experience a whole new and comfortable way of breathing, due to a completely re-designed breathing air supply system. With its modern, ergonomic design, the hood can be adapted to fit almost any head shape, allowing the individual adjustment of its circumference, height and position.

Breathing air quality: Connects to a clean air supplied system, eliminating potential risks from breathing contaminated spray booth air.

No inhalation resistance, very comfortable breathing

High protection level (protects up to 100 times the TRK-value*)

Non-reflecting view due to solvent-resistant special foil

Low operating costs, quick pay-off of purchase costs

Soft-stream flow-optimized air distribution in the hood

Rigid bump cap for safer work conditions

SATA CCS Discs (Color Code System) allow to personalize hood, SATA air regulator and SATA air carbon regulator

To be used in conjunction with a filter unit, preferably SATA filter 584; air supply via approved breathing hose

*TRK –Technic al Reference Concentr ation (TRC)

Sata Drive • PO Box 46

800-533-8016 E-mail: satajet@satausa.com www.satausa.com

SATA Spray Guns Help Milestone Paint & Body Create Dazzling Custom Builds

by Autobody News Staff

Milestone Paint & Body in Mt. Juliet, TN, is a custom restoration shop founded by father and son John and Jacob Miles. The duo gained enough of a reputation from working on their own classic cars that they took the leap and transformed their hobby shop into a full-fledged business, offering frame-off restorations and mechanical work.

Since then, their work has been featured on national TV shows and in magazines, and attracted the attention of several country music greats, thanks to the shop’s proximity to Nashville. Customers from across the U.S. pay up to a half million dollars for one of their builds.

Before starting the business with his dad, Jacob Miles served in the U.S. Navy Ceremonial Guard in Washington, D.C., for three years under President Bill Clinton. He then attended Nashville Auto Diesel College for two and a half years. The school, which has since been bought by Lincoln Tech, inducted Miles into its Hall of Fame in 2012.

Miles said he and his dad first got into restoration because they had several classic cars his dad had bought new that needed work, like a 1966 Corvette Stingray and a Cushman he’d used as a kid to deliver newspapers.

“We built the shop to work on our own vehicles, and then it turned into people wanted me to work on theirs,” Miles said. “So, we got it zoned commercial, put in a paint booth, and turned it into a business in 2002.

“We started from scratch,” he said. “It was make it or break it, but we seem to be doing pretty good.”

Milestone Paint & Body took off in 2008, when some of its cars went to a Barrett-Jackson auction, leading to media exposure on a national scale. Now, in addition to word of mouth, the shop finds customers through its website and social media posts on Instagram, Facebook, YouTube and TikTok.

To complete the top-shelf custom builds his clientele expects, Miles finds products he trusts and sticks with them. He had been

Milestone Paint & Body

Mt. Juliet, TN

615-804-4391

milestonepaint.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Custom Restoration Shop

Facility Employees: Four

In Business Since: 2002

Number of Locations: One

using a particular spray gun for years, when Tony Larimer from SATA USA came in with a local SATA representative, Dylan Randall, in early 2024 with three suitcases full of SATA guns.

“He was like, ‘Just try one,’” Miles said. Skeptical, Miles sprayed two, a SATAminijet 4400 B and SATAjet X 5500 universe, with Larimer’s instruction.

“I was like, ‘Man, these guns really spray good,” he said. “They felt good in my hand, and sprayed great.”

He was hooked. Miles sold all of his old guns and has since bought six SATA guns. In addition to the two he tried, he bought a SATAjet X 5500 PHASER, two SATAjet100 B primer guns and a SATAminijet 4400 B.

“Usually, when I’m with [a manufacturer], I’m with them,” Miles said. “I don’t change products because I’m not into saving a dollar. I want to use the top-of-the-line materials as well as top-of-the-line paint guns.

“I love [SATA spray guns],” he said. “I don’t know if I’d ever switch back because I like them that well.”

The other painters at Milestone Paint & Body are fans of the SATA guns too.

Miles said he prefers guns that spray an “O” pattern, as opposed to an “I” pattern, as it lays down more material. “I’m not a three-coat clear coater; I like my coverage,” he said.

The SATA guns feel to Miles like they lay down the material smoother with less air pressure.

“Not all jobs get wet sanded and

buffed, but when they do, I can start with 1200 or 1500 grit sandpaper and be done faster, because it’s slicker already,” Miles said.

Customers may not be able to tell a difference in the result between Miles’ former guns and his SATA guns, but he “can tell a difference when I’m spraying it,” he said.

Miles didn’t have a lot to say about SATA’s customer support, because he hasn’t had to use it.

“I know if I needed them, they’re a phone call away, but I haven’t really needed them because everything is just flowing smoothly,” he said. “I fully disassemble my guns every time I use them, to clean them. No issues.”

Miles recently used his SATAminijet to customize a guitar Dolly Parton is set to autograph. “I loved how the finish looked without having to wet sand and buff it,” he said.

He is also using the SATAjet X 5500 PHASER on a classic Chevy C10 he’s restoring for country music singer Justin Moore

Still, Miles said, his favorite build is his dad’s ’66 Corvette. They did a full frame-off restoration and repainted it in its original Nassau Blue.

“That one meant the most to me because it’s his,” Miles said.

A few years ago, Miles and his wife, Amy, started a second business, Milestone Cattle Company, which breeds and shows Texas Longhorns. They currently have a herd of 65 cattle occupying 80 acres behind the restoration shop.

Production Space: 7,700 square feet SATA Spray Equipment

www.satausa.com

PO Box 46

Spring Valley, MN 55975

Facebook: @SATAUSA

Instagram: @satausainc

YouTube:@SATAUSAInc

Jacob Miles is using a SATAjet X 5500 PHASER on a classic Chevy C10 he’s restoring for country music singer Justin Moore.

Miles’ favorite build is this 1966 Corvette Stingray his dad bought brand new. In addition to restoring the car, Miles custom painted a guitar to match it. Photo by Anthony Ross Tyler.

Milestone Paint & Body in Mt. Juliet, TN, completes top-shelf custom restorations for clients from all over the U.S. Photo by Anthony Ross Tyler.

Unique Auto Body Relies on USI Italia for First Class Painting Equipment

by Autobody News Staff

Unique Auto Body is a multi-site family business that has been serving the Salt Lake County area since 1983. The business is currently owned by Jeremy Weller, whose father founded the first shop. Weller said he initially wanted to pursue a career elsewhere — and at first, he wasn’t thrilled about being back in the family shop. However, he found he could build a solid business serving the area he had grown up in.

Since taking over ownership, Weller and his brothers have grown the business to five locations across the Salt Lake and Utah County areas, employing 120 people and repairing around 1,100 cars per month. According to Weller, the secret to the success of Unique Auto Body comes down to the basic principle of putting customers first.

“I think our business is like everywhere else that has a lot of big companies moving in — but we’ve been able to weather the storm by just treating people fairly and honestly,” said Weller.

Weller said the family has deep roots in the area, and those relationships have gone a long way to helping their business retain a solid customer base.

“You know, my brothers and I all grew up here, so a lot of people know us. I think you still have a lot of people in today’s world that want to go somewhere where they’re known and people take care of them,” Weller said.

When Weller was in the market for a painting booth for the shop back in the early 2000s, he was looking to replace a problematic booth which, in his words, was “a total maintenance nightmare.” Not knowing much at the time about painting booths, he went to the NACE convention to look into his options. Weller said from his first encounter with the USI Italia painting booth, he could tell it was in another class altogether.

“The construction of the USI booth seemed far superior. I remember running my hand

down the side of the paint booth and it was smooth all the way down,” Weller said. “With most paint booths, you can’t do that or you’d cut your hand off. There weren’t any bolts or any loose ends on the outside, so I figured the inside was as good as the outside.”

He decided to take a leap and purchase the USI Italia painting booth, despite qualms that buying from an Italian company might complicate matters like ordering parts. He has never regretted that decision, and to date, the business has purchased five USI Italia painting booths and four prep stations. They are currently in the process of purchasing four more USI Italia painting booths, attesting to their confidence in the brand.

So what is it that makes the USI Italia equipment stand out?

Weller said one of the biggest advantages is “these booths just don’t break down.”

“I’m amazed they run all day, every day. They are rock solid. With the paint booths we have from other manufacturers, we have doors falling off, hinges breaking, door handles breaking. I don’t think we’ve ever replaced a door handle or hinge on those USI booths in 20 years of usage,” said Weller.

The quality of the finished product also stands out from the other painting booths Unique

Unique Auto Body

American Fork, UT 801-492-5000

uniqueautobody.com

Company At A Glance...

Type: Collision Repair

Facility Employees: 120

In Business Since: 1983

Number of Locations: Five

Combined Production Space: 119,000 square feet

Auto Body has used. In particular, Weller mentioned the quality of the airflow in a USI Italia painting booth.

“A big part of what you need with a spray booth is good airflow. If you don’t have good airflow, then you have to manually dry the new waterborne paints, and the USI booths have great airflow. We don’t have to use auxiliary fans,” Weller said.

The list of other advantages Unique Auto Body has experienced speaks to the overall quality and attention to detail that is the trademark of USI Italia. According to Weller, “Bake times are consistent. The paint booths are large inside. They feel spacious. They’re well-lit. They’re easy to clean and maintain, which is a big deal — they don’t have any weird cracks and crevices.”

Weller also noted his company has experienced a high level of customer service over the decades of working with USI Italia and the company is quick to respond and resolve any problems they might encounter.

Weller said he’s never regretted the purchase of his USI Italia painting booth 20 years ago, and he sees USI Italia equipment as an asset for Unique Auto Body.

“We don’t make money if the painting booths aren’t running, or if the doors are breaking or things like that. With USI Italia, we just don’t have those issues.”