Counterman, May 2014 by Babcox Media

Tech That Makes Us Look Like Magicians ● Are You The Next CPOTY? See Page 47

M Ma ay y 2 20 01 14 4

We also look at: • Fuel Pumps • Batteries • Motor Oil • Brake Hardware • Motor Mounts • and More!

Say

Hello

To Low-Copper Friction

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INSIDE

May Volume 32, No. 5

features Tech Features By Larry Carley

Fuel pumps come in different varieties. .......

Late-model vehicles place high demands on batteries. ................................................................

Remember brake hardware when making a sale. ............................................................

26 Motor oil: More changes on the way. .............28 Say hello to low-copper friction. ......................36

Motor mounts tamp down vibration, noise. ........................................................

Mechanic Connection By Gary Goms

Ball joints, tie rods are important safety components. ..................................................

Variable valve timing sales should increase. ........................................................................

32 Rack and pinion repairs. .......................................34

columns Editorâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Ink

By Mark Phillips .....................................................

Who is in authority here?

Counter-tech

By Mandy Aguilar.........................................

Technology that makes us look like magicians.

From The Publisher

By S. Scott Shriber........................

Race on Sunday, deliver parts on Monday.

COUNTERMAN (ISSN 0739-3695) (May 2014 Volume 32, Number 5): Copyright 2014 Babcox Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved: Published monthly by Babcox, 3550 Embassy Parkway, Akron, OH 44333 U.S.A. Phone (330) 670-1234, Fax (330) 670-0874. Periodical postage paid at Akron, OH 44333 and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to COUNTERMAN, 3550 Embassy Parkway, Akron, OH 44333-8318. A limited number of complimentary subscriptions are available to individuals who meet the qualification requirements. Call (330) 670-1234, Ext. 275, to speak to a subscription services representative or FAX us at (330) 670-5335. Paid Subscriptions are available for non-qualified subscribers at the following rates: U.S.: $69. Samples and back issues - Domestic - $10, International/via air mail - $15. Canada: $89 for one year, $149 for two years. Canadian rates include GST. Ohio residents add 5.75% sales tax. Other foreign rates/via air mail: $129 for one year. Payable in advance in U.S. funds. Mail payment to COUNTERMAN, P.O. Box 75692, Cleveland, OH 44101-4755. Visa, MasterCard or American Express accepted.

May 2014 | Counterman

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departments 8

PUBLISHER

S. Scott Shriber 330-670-1234, ext. 229 sshriber@babcox.com

Aftermarket News ...........................................................................................

EDITORIAL

Aftermarket News presents news, views and analysis of current trends and events in aftermarket distribution

Mark Phillips, Editor 330-670-1234, Ext. 299 mphillips@babcox.com

MarketPlace ....................................................................................................

Every month, MarketPlace showcases the newest automotive product and service innovations your customers are asking about

News extra .......................................................................................................

Four-in-one transportation show brings international aftermarket to Taiwan.

48 NASCAR Performance ............................................................................49 Classifieds.........................................................................................................

This monthly special section takes you behind the scenes of this fast-growing sport.

Amy Antenora, Editor, aftermarketNews Managing Editor, Counterman 330-670-1234, Ext. 220 aantenora@babcox.com Larry Carley, Technical Editor lcarley@babcox.com CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Mandy Aguilar, Columnist Gary Goms, Commercial Accounts Gerald Wheelus, Columnist Jerry King, Cartoonist GRAPHIC DESIGN

Lisa DiPaolo, Graphic Designer 330-670-1234 , Ext. 281 ldipaolo@babcox.com ADVERTISING SERVICES

Tina Purnell Advertising Services Manager 330-670-1234 , Ext. 243 tpurnell@babcox.com CIRCULATION SERVICES Pat Robinson, Circulation Manager 330-670-1234, Ext. 276 probinson@babcox.com Ellen Mays, Circulation Specialist 330-670-1234, Ext. 275 emays@babcox.com

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES Home Office: 3550 Embassy Parkway Akron, OH 44333-8318 330-670-1234 FAX 330-670-0874 Bill Babcox bbabcox@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 217

Publisher: S. Scott Shriber sshriber@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 229 Sales Representatives: Dean Martin dmartin@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 225 Jim Merle jmerle@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 280 Bobbie Adams badams@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 238

May 2014 | Counterman

Roberto Almenar ralmenar@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 233

Sean Donohue sdonohue@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 206

Glenn Warner gwarner@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 212

John Zick jzick@babcox.com 805-845-1400

Doug Basford dbasford@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 255

Classified Sales: Tom Staab tstaab@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 224

Jamie Lewis jlewis@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 266

List Sales Manager Don Hemming dhemming@babcox.com 330-670-1234, ext. 286

DIRECTOR OF eMEDIA & AUDIENCE DEVELOPMENT Brad Mitchell 330-670-1234 , Ext. 277 bmitchell@babcox.com CORPORATE Bill Babcox, President Greg Cira, Vice President, Chief Financial Officer Jeff Stankard, Vice President Beth Scheetz, Controller

Edward S. Babcox (1885-1970) Founder Tom B. Babcox (1919-1995) Chairman Founded 1983. Copyright 2014 Babcox Media, Inc., All Rights Reserved COUNTERMAN (ISSN-0739-3695) is published monthly by Babcox Media, 3550 Embassy Pkwy., Akron, OH 44333. Periodical postage paid at Akron, OH and additional mailing offices. Member, BPA International

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DITOR’S INK By Mark Phillips

Who Is In Authority Here? here’s a riveting and entertaining scene in the original “Terminator” movie starring Arnold Schwarzenegger where one of the lead characters, Kyle Reese, has had just about enough of a psychologist while he’s being held at a police station. Reese has come back from the future to save the future leaders of a resistance movement that aims to save humans from obliteration by Terminator robots and Skynet, a giant computer system that decides humans should die. Reese repeatedly tells the psychologist about the nasty war in the future and how a robot was sent to the then present to kill the resistance leaders (I mean, come on, that sounds totally plausible.) At one point, Reese blows his stack when the psychologist says he can’t release him from police custody. “Then why am I talking to you? Get out. Who is in authority here?” he yells. Have any of you ever felt like this? Wanting to yell, “Who is in authority here?” you know, at the customer service person you’re speaking to who has no apparent authority to do anything other than converse with you and tell you they’re “sorry” about your experience? At the salesperson who can make no decisions without consulting their supervisor? At the checkout person who needs a twist from his or her supervisor’s special little “key” to do something about your transaction? When anyone who represents a compa-

T Once customers have had onetoo-many poor interactions with a customer service rep, that’s it. People are not willing to hang on for the long-haul to see if things will improve.

ny or organization reaches for the “I need to speak to my supervisor” line while discussing any customer service issue, it’s the kiss of death. It means, basically, “I’m just paid to answer the phone or stand here. I can’t really help you.” It means the organization is seriously flawed. It means the customer-facing employees, often the most important in any company or organization, have no authority. If Kyle Reese was a customer, he would be seriously disappointed. Companies may think that by directing their employees to refer matters to supervisors they’re playing it safe. But customer service reps are sometimes the only face of a company because they actually interact with customers on a daily basis. Once customers have had one-too-many poor interactions with a customer service rep, that’s it. People are not willing to hang on for the long-haul to see if things will improve. They’ve got other places to do business. It’s easy to spot these types of organizations. If two or more employees, when questioned, point to the same person above them as the arbiter of all things customerrelated, you’ve probably identified a flawed organization. If those employees offer zero solutions on their own, you’ve identified a flawed organization. Why do some organizations operate this way? It’s probably due to a combination of things. Maybe they don’t trust their employees to do the right thing (in this case, why hire people?) Maybe they’re led by control freaks. Maybe they have a command structure that’s more hierarchical than flat, where the top decides everything and nothing from the bottom — including ideas on how to improve things — is allowed to trickle up. Whatever the reason, organizations whose employees can’t or aren’t allowed to make decisions are going to get pummeled by those that allow and encourage it. CM ■ ■ ■

For more information: www.counterman.com Twitter: @CountermanMag

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AFTERMARKET NEWS GAAS Scholarship Applications Set A New Record In 2014 RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C.— The Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) Scholarship program website,

www.AutomotiveScholarships.com, received a record-setting 607 completed applications from students seeking the 2014-2015 awards.

“The 607 applications for this year’s scholarships far exceed our previous record of 503 set in 2013,” said Pete Kornafel, chairman of the GAAS Scholarship Selection Committee. “Our outreach to teachers and industry professionals has succeeded in getting the word out about the scholarships’ availability to students who are planning careers in the automotive aftermarket.”

MAHLE Aftermarket Inc. Sponsors Formula DRIFT Driver Conrad Grunewald

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FARMINGTON HILLS, Mich. — MAHLE Aftermarket Inc. (formerly MAHLE Clevite Inc.) has announced its sponsorship of Formula DRIFT driver Conrad Grunewald for the 2014 Professional Drifting Championship Series. As an official partner, MAHLE Aftermarket Inc. will provide technical support for Grunewald and his Formula DRIFT Chevrolet Camaro. It also will have the MAHLE brand decal displayed on the No. 79 car. “As a leader in motorsports with various partnerships in circle track, drag racing, Formula 1, and diesel motorsports arenas, we have the experience to provide Grunewald with the technical knowledge needed to succeed in the Formula DRIFT series,” said Jon Douglas, general manager, MAHLE Aftermarket. “Conrad Grunewald is a talented driver and we are pleased to support him as he competes in the 2014 Formula DRIFT series.”

May 2014 | Counterman

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AFTERMARKET NEWS

Automotive Parts Associates Announces Newest Member: All European Auto Supply Inc. Automotive Parts Associates has announced the addition of the group’s newest member: All European Auto Supply Inc. All European Auto Supply was established in Royal Oak, Mich., in 1994 and today prides itself in stocking the largest inventory of exclusively European parts in the Midwest and selling them with unmatched accuracy. In addition to its strong Michigan-based business, the company sells online nationwide through its website, www.alleuro.com.

Guess the Car Win $100! This Month’s Puzzle

#76 What vehicle does this picture represent? If you think you know the answer, go to www.counterman.com and click “Guess the Car” on the nav bar. Submit your answer and contact information. A winner will be randomly selected by the Counterman staff from all correct answers. The deadline to enter is June 2. The winner’s name will appear in the next issue. Stay tuned!

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Last Month’s Correct Answer:

#75 Pontiac Tempest Congrats to Bill Wash, Powhatan, Va.

May 2014 | Counterman

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AFTERMARKET NEWS

Over the Counter By Jerry King Autologic Diagnostics Partners With WORLDPAC Training Institute (WTI) For 2014 National Conference And Tech Sessions

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NEWARK, Calif. – Autologic Diagnostics, in partnership with the WORLDPAC Training Institute (WTI), hosted its fifth annual National Conference and Tech Sessions (NCTS) March 6-8 at The M Resort in Las Vegas. Two-hundred-and-sixty people from across the U.S. and around the globe were in attendance. Attendees were able to select four classes for a total of 16 hours of training. The NCTS kicked off Thursday, March 6 with an opening evening reception at Lux on the top floor of the M Resort, followed by two days of intensive training and a closing dinner on Saturday, March 8. Autologic training included BMW, Mini, Mercedes-Benz, Porsche, Land Rover, Volvo and Volkswagen/Audi car lines. WORLDPAC Training Institute (WTI) provided advanced technical classes on BMW, Mini, Volvo, Mercedes and shop management. New in 2014, the NCTS introduced three “handson” demonstration classes including Mercedes Engine 272 Repair with Jeff Henschel, 722.9 Transmission with Nathan Canson and BMW Panorama Roof with Luke Murray.

May 2014 | Counterman

“Two of the things that separate Autologic from our competitors are our world-class technical support and the extensive training we provide for our customers,” said Kevin FitzPatrick, CEO Autologic Diagnostics Inc.

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AFTERMARKET NEWS

MAM Software To Launch Autocat+ Cloud-Based Electronic Parts Catalog ALLENTOWN, Pa. — MAM Software Inc. will release its Autocat+ electronic catalog for warehouse distributors, jobbers and service dealers later this month. Autocat+ provides direct access to updates from a wide variety of suppliers, combining cloud technology with the industry ACES and PIES standards to publish updates quickly and eliminate monthly data maintenance. According to MAM, customers will enjoy a userfriendly interface with an intuitive selection of vehicle information and product types on a single screen. Flexible configuration options allow the product to cater to each business; users can place product category and sub-cate-

gories in logical areas to increase visibility and potential add-on sale opportunities. VIN, interchange and buyers guide searches deliver multiple methods to identify the right part and reduce lost sales, the company adds. Other key features include: ● Driven by cloud technology ● Simplified searches that aid product identification ● Complete product details including images, attributes and interchanges ● Published updates are immediately available to all users ● No monthly maintenance required to update product information According to MAM, the ability

to access real-time supplier data is crucial. Although electronic catalogs have standardized searches and information, the distribution of updates has lagged behind technology and the swift pace of business transactions. “Data latency has been a consistent pain point for cataloging in the aftermarket,” said Patrick Maley, president of MAM Software. “Starting with the layout and production efforts of printed catalogs and continuing through electronic catalogs that rely on media and monthly mail distribution, the industry has been hampered by the delay in getting catalog information into the hands of those making purchasing decisions. MAM is bringing the proven success of its cloud-based catalog solution to the U.S. to address this issue.”

SMP Honored At O’Reilly’s Managers’ Conference

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NEW YORK, N.Y. – Standard Motor Products Inc. (SMP) was recently honored with O’Reilly’s Vendor of the Year award for Technical and Training Support. The award was presented at the O’Reilly Auto Parts Managers’ Conference, held Feb. 1 in St. Louis, Mo. More than 6,500 O’Reilly team members were in attendance. This award recognizes suppliers that go above and beyond in their effort to train O’Reilly professional customers and team members to ensure they have an indepth understanding of the products that vendor supplies. “SMP consistently excels at training our team members and installers on their product lines,” said David Wilbanks, vice president merchandise, O’Reilly Auto Parts. “In fact, we’ve received comments from our professional customer base remarking how high SMP has set the bar with these training classes – no selling, no gimmicks, just solid training.” 14

May 2014 | Counterman

AFTERMARKET NEWS

Federated Announces ‘Get Dirty with Kenny’ Home Run Weekend

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STAUNTON, Va. – What could be better than a weekend of dirt track races and running bases? Winners of the “Get Dirty with Kenny” extravaganza will see a night of major league baseball from a skybox at beautiful Busch Stadium in St. Louis before hitting the track with NASCAR driver and dirt track legend Kenny Schrader the following day. The popular “Get Dirty with Kenny” dirt track driving experience will take place at the Federated Auto Parts I-55 Raceway in Pevely, Mo., outside of St. Louis. Winners will have the opportunity to race with Schrader as well as get a behind-the-scenes look at the racing business. “Every year, we add a little twist to the ‘Get Dirty with Kenny’ sweepstakes, and a night at Busch Stadium watching the defending National League champions battle one of their arch rivals from a skybox is certainly going to be extra memorable for our winners,” said Phil Moore, senior vice president for Federated. “Every year, the winners of the ‘Get Dirty with Kenny’ contest tell us it was an unforgettable weekend and we know this year will be no different.” To be eligible to win a chance to “Get Dirty with Kenny,” a shop must be enrolled as a Federated Car Care Center member by June 1. All Federated Car Care Center members in good standing are automatically registered to earn a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip. For more information about the Federated Car Care program and the “Get Dirty with Kenny” promotion, contact your Federated Auto Parts Distributor or visit www.federatedautoparts.com.

@CountermanMag

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AFTERMARKET NEWS

Raybestos Brakes Help Counter Pros, Technicians ‘Get Green’ McHENRY, Ill. – This spring, selling seriously green stopping power can earn counter people and technicians some serious cash, according to Raybestos Brakes. The company’s Element3 brake pads with Enhanced Hybrid Technology (EHT) are some of the greenest brake pads in the aftermarket and

are copper-compliant to 2025. The company is offering simultaneous sales promotions for counter people and technicians. From April 1 through May 31, when counter people sell Professional Grade Ceramic, Professional Grade OEMatched and Element3 brake pads with EHT, they earn $1 for each set

Parts Plus To Give Away Clay Millican’s ‘57 Chevy Pickup GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – The Parts Plus division of The Automotive Distribution Network will award Clay Millican’s ’57 Chevy truck as well as a brand-new 2015 Chevy pickup to two service dealers as part of a nationwide sweepstakes promoting its 2015 National Convention in New Orleans. “We’re awarding two grand prizes that every car guy would be thrilled to have,” said Mike Lambert, president of the Network and a New Orleans native. “It doesn’t get any better than the classic ’57 Chevy pickup driven by the Network’s six-time world champion drag racer and a brand-new Chevy. As we say back home, ‘Laissez le bon temps rouler [Let the good times roll].’” From June 1 through Nov. 30, service dealers around the country can become eligible by making qualifying product purchases from their Network supplier. Weekly and monthly prizes include iPads, flat-screen TVs, autographed Clay Millican hats and more. Five shops will then be drawn as winners of a trip to New Orleans and the 2015 Network National Convention. On the final convention night, two finalists will be determined as winners of the Chevy pickups, including Millican’s pride and joy. 16

May 2014 | Counterman

“I guess you could say it’s been a passion of mine,” said Millican, driver of the Parts Plus Top Fuel dragster. “With me on the road so much, I wanted the ’57 Chevy to go to people I trust to take care of it — namely, one of the Network’s best service dealer customers.”

of qualifying brake pads sold. Once they sell 20 sets, they automatically earn a $5 bonus. Counter people can redeem up to 20 tally cards during the promotional period; potentially earning up to $500. Technicians who install Element3 brake pads with EHT, Professional Grade Ceramic and Professional Grade OE-Matched brake pads also can earn the same cash reward; receiving $1 for every set of qualifying product installed. Once they install 20 sets, they also earn the $5 bonus. Technicians can redeem up to 20 tally cards during the promotional period. The more they install, the bigger their haul, Raybestos says – up to $500. For more information, visit www.RaybestosBrakes.com or call 800-323-0354.

Hytec Automotive Announces Strategic Partnership With Barrett Distribution Centers DORAL, Fla. – The Hytec Automotive Group has formed a strategic partnership with Barrett Distribution Centers of Pico Rivera, Calif., to ship and distribute Hytec Automotive-branded aftermarket parts. The partnership will allow for same-day shipments of Hytec auto parts. “We are extremely pleased to announce the partnership with Barrett Distribution Centers,” said James Irving, CFO, The Hytec Automotive Group. “To now have the ability to ship our Hytec brand quality automotive parts the same day they are ordered will now afford us the ability to compete with any distribution and fulfillment channel in our industry. Our Western United States customers will benefit greatly with this on-demand distribution platform.” Barrett’s 120,000-square-foot fulfillment center provides expert fulfillment services for the surrounding areas including Orange County, Los Angeles County, Southern California and the Inland Empire. It is conveniently located 20 miles from Los Angeles International Airport and 17 miles from the Port of Long Beach. It also has immediate access to the 605, 105 and Santa Ana freeways.

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AFTERMARKET NEWS

NPW Reports First KARS Expo A Success TORONTO – Karbelt Speed and Custom, National Performance Warehouse’s (NPW) Canadian division, recently hosted the KARS Expo – its first trade show under the NPW banner – held March 22-23. KARS is the acronym for Karbelt’s Automotive Racing and Specialty Expo. The weekend performance showcase started off with an appreciation dinner for the participating vendors and industry special guests. The event was hosted in conjunction with MegaSpeed Custom Car and Truck Show at The International Centre in Toronto, Ontario, for double exposure (wholesale and retail). The KARS Expo had more than 50 manufacturer display booths and attendance reached more than 26,000, making this the largest automotive show in Canada. The event allowed vendors and

technical support personnel to discuss with attendees product applications, tech tips and the latest info on what’s hot for the upcoming motorsport season. Event organizers say manufacturers appreciated talking to both the consumers and jobbers. Jobbers placed their spring orders and took advantage of the pricing incentives to kick-start the 2014 season. Eligible Karbelt qualified wholesale accounts were able to participate in the cash back, cash raffle, product prize draws and also earn cruise credits with their show purchases. All booths were equipped with customer referral information to become a Karbelt customer and to sign up for referral regarding where to buy the products from one of Karbelt’s jobbers closest to them. Plans are already under way for the 2015 edition.

The Network Hosts Nearly Entire Membership, Dozens Of Manufacturer Partners At Spring Meeting

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GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – The Automotive Distribution Network recently hosted dozens of manufacturer partners and its entire membership for the group’s spring meeting in Ft. Worth, Texas, including several new warehouse distributors representing the Parts Plus, Parts Plus Mexico, IAPA and Auto Pride brands. “This gathering of members and vendors provides unique opportunities for our WDs to meet face-toface with Network headquarters staff and our manufacturer partners to provide feedback from the street, discuss exciting new promotional opportunities, and explore the latest elements in the association toolbox,” said Mike Lambert, president of the Network. “Discussions like these are now somewhat 18

May 2014 | Counterman

rare, so our membership utilized this quality time.” The Network also reviewed new marketing, product and IT initiatives, including the license plate lookup tool and WebShop app, which proved to be especially enlightening for companies that have joined the Network since last fall’s meeting, Lambert said. “The Network remains a member-driven organization, so our spring and fall membership meetings help to ensure that the Network is continually developing programs and making product decisions that will benefit our members and their customers at the street level,” Lambert said. “It was vital to have input from our newest members from the West Coast and the Northeast and everywhere in between.”

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AFTERMARKET NEWS

The Network Launches New Website For Auto Pride Division GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – The Automotive Distribution Network has launched a new website to complement the latest program offerings of its Auto Pride division. Located at www.autopride.com, the redesigned site reflects the growth of the Auto Pride membership nationwide and its increasing number of business tools, including its expanded Auto Service Experts program, according to Mike Lambert, president of the Network. “From featured manufacturer partners to a location finder to online training, the new autopride.com is a comprehensive site for consumers as well as for Auto Pride members, jobbers and service dealers,” Lambert said. The enhanced, easy-to-navigate Auto Pride site also contains moneysaving offers and credit applications for consumers as well as e-catalogs featuring parts, tools and equipment to ensure easy, accurate ordering for jobbers and service dealers.

Arnott Air Suspension Products Opens European Union Office And Distribution Center

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MERRITT ISLAND, Fla. – Arnott Air Suspension Products has announced the opening of a European Union branch office and distribution center. According to Arnott, the new EU facility, located in the Netherlands, provides local sales and support, faster shipping, payment in local currencies and an easier way for the growing legion of European customers to return and sell air suspension cores to the company. With headquarters in Florida, Arnott makes air suspension replacement products for many European, Japanese and American cars, trucks and SUVs. “Opening the European Union facility is the logical result of Arnott’s significant and growing worldwide product popularity,” said Todd Nash, senior vice president of global sales and marketing. “One of the key aspects of what we like to call ‘The Arnott Advantage’ is a culture of product quality and intense commitment to customer satisfaction, including accurate order fulfillment and prompt shipping. Having dedicated Arnott employees in the European Union as opposed to simply serving the 20

May 2014 | Counterman

European Union truly makes ‘The Arnott Advantage’ a worldwide reality.” Benefits to EU customers and distributors include: ● Reduced Shipping Costs and Transit Times – Shipping cost is reduced by as much as 80 percent and same-day service is available for in-stock orders placed by 2 p.m. CET. ● Eliminated Duties and Taxes – Duties and customs fees are included. VAT charges are eliminated for VAT-registered companies. ● Euro and local currencies accepted – Arnott Europe accepts direct bank transfer payments in euros and charges no foreign transaction or bank fees. ● Remanufactured Product Availability – Arnott’s remanufactured products are available to EU customers who previously had to send a core in advance. The EU facility serves as a hub for the return and purchase of air suspension cores for recycling. For more information about Arnott Europe or to download the Arnott Air Suspension Products 2014 Catalog, please visit www.ArnottEurope.com.

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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor

Fuel Pumps Come In module assembly,” which fits inside the tank through a hole in the top of the tank. The fuel pump assembly is held in place with fasteners or a lock ring, and sealed with a gasket or O-Ring. Replacing the pump module usually requires dropping the fuel tank. The wiring and fuel line connections are on the outside of the tank. Corrosion and vibration can

uel pumps are a popular product line because virtually every vehicle built since the late 1980s and early 1990s have been equipped with some type of electronic fuel injection. A high-pressure electric pump is required to generate pressure so fuel will spray out of the fuel injectors when the injectors open. The amount of pressure the pump has to generate will vary depending on the application, but is typically in the 35 to 80 PSI range. Most original equipment electric fuel pumps are mounted inside the fuel tank. Submerging the pump in gasoline quiets the pump and allows the fuel to cool and lubricate the pump. This is very important because most electric fuel pumps spin at high speed (5,000 to 7,000 RPM or higher). Without a steady supply of fuel through the pump for cooling and lubrication, the pump can quickly selfdestruct (a good reason to avoid running out of gas!). The fuel pump is combined with the fuel level sending unit and float in the “fuel pump

May 2014 | Counterman

cause electrical problems with the wiring harness connection, which cause the pump to stop operating. Replacing the pump isn’t necessary because the problem is the voltage supply. A bad fuel pump relay, blown fuse, wiring fault or anti-theft system problem can also cause an electric fuel pump to stop working. It’s important to rule out all of these other possibilities before installing a new fuel

Different Varieties Electric fuel pumps also are used for other purposes — like transferring fuel from one tank to another in pickup trucks with dual fuel tanks. Some applications have two pumps, one to “lift” fuel out of the fuel tank and a second high-pressure pump to supply the fuel injectors. Universal low-pressure electric fuel pumps also can be used to replace mechanical fuel pumps on older vehicles with carburetors. Mechanical fuel pumps are usually driven off the camshaft and use a spring-loaded diaphragm and a pair of valves to move fuel through the fuel line to the carburetor. Mechanical pumps operate at low pressure (2 to 7 PSI), and are prone to leaks, diaphragm failures and breakage. Replacing a mechanical pump with a low pressure universal electric pump can improve reliability and reduce the risk of vapor lock during hot weather by keeping the fuel in the line under pressure (which prevents the formation of vapor bubbles). Solid state electronic pumps have no bearings, electrical contacts or diaphragms to wear out or fail, which makes them more durable than other types of electric pumps. Installation only requires a voltage supply connection. Other parts that may be needed when replacing or installing a fuel pump include fuel hose, clamps and a fuel filter. Fuel system cleaner should also be recommended to keep the fuel system and injectors clean. A dirty throttle body can be cleaned up with a can of aerosol throttle body cleaner. CM

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pump to prevent unnecessary returns. If a newly installed fuel pump does not work, the problem wasn’t the pump but an electrical issue. The fuel filter and fuel pump inlet sock must also be changed when a new fuel pump is installed. On returnless EFI applications, there is no in-line fuel filter. The filter and regulator are both part of the pump module assembly.

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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor

Late-Model Vehicles Place High Demands On Batteries ong, cold winters are hard on car batteries, but long hot summers can be even harsher. Batteries in hot climates like Arizona, New Mexico and Florida typically need to be replaced a year or two sooner than those in states with more moderate climates. The reason is that heat causes the electrolyte inside the battery to evaporate, and once the level drops below the tops of the

plates, the plates suffer permanent damage. To make matters worse, sealed top “maintenance-free” batteries have no provisions for adding make-up water. Consequently, many of these batteries are doomed if their water level gets too low. Absorbent Glass Mat (AGM) batteries are typically much longerlived because they have no liquid electrolyte in their cells. The electrolyte is held in spongy mats between the lead cell plates. This not only makes such batteries spillproof but also less vulnerable to outgassing and loss of electrolyte over time. AGM batteries are being used in a growing number of new vehicles 24

May 2014 | Counterman

not only because of their increased longevity but also because they perform better with high electrical loads and stop/start systems. Over the next couple of years, up to 40 percent of new cars may be equipped with fuel-saving stop/start systems and AGM batteries. Ford has said that up to 70 percent of its cars will have stop/start by 2017. Stop/start is being used on the 2014 Ford Fusion with a 1.5L EcoBoost engine, and the 2014 Chevy Malibu 2.5L engine (which gets 3 mpg better fuel economy in city driving than its conventional predecessor). A stop/start system turns the engine off when a vehicle stops moving for more than a few seconds. This saves what would otherwise be wasted while the engine is idling. Stop/start systems can improve city fuel economy numbers an average of 3.5 percent up to 14 percent depending on how the vehicle is driven. On applications that come factory-equipped with an AGM battery, the same type of battery should be used to replace the original battery when a battery replacement becomes necessary. Also important to battery life is keeping the battery at or near full charge. When a battery runs down, sulfate builds up on the plates. The longer the battery sits in a discharged condition, the harder it is to knock the sulfate off the plates

when the battery is recharged. If there are too many deep discharge cycles with a conventional leadacid battery, or the battery is chronically undercharged, it will lose its ability to accept a full charge. The battery will grow weaker and eventually fail. Late-model vehicles are loaded with electronics that place increased demands on the battery and charging system. Many models have “keep alive” memories that draw a small current from the battery even when the key is off. To minimize the power drain, many modules are programmed to go into a sleep mode that minimizes power consumption at some time interval after the ignition has been switched off. Even so, the residual key-off power drain can be up to 100 milliwatts 30 minutes or more after the ignition has been switched off. Opening a door or approaching a vehicle with a smart key fob can activate the keyless entry system and other modules, increasing the power drain on the battery for a period of time. Consequently, if a vehicle is not driven for say a week to 10 days, the battery may discharge to the point where it can no longer crank the engine. Loose, corroded or damaged battery cables that make poor electrical contact also can cause a battery to run down or prevent the engine from starting. Battery cables should always be inspected and cleaned or replaced as needed when starting/charging problems are encountered, or when installing a new battery. CM

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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor

Remember Brake Hardware When Making A Sale lthough disc brakes have been around for decades, many cars and light trucks still have drum brakes on the rear. Why? Because drum brakes are less expensive to manufacture, are self-energizing (they don’t require as much pedal pressure or power assist) and can easily incorporate a simple parking brake mechanism. On vehicles that have disc/drum brake systems, the front disc brakes do most of the work. Consequently, the disc brake pads up front usually wear out two to three times faster than the drum brake shoes in the rear. Because of this, the rear brake linings and hardware may only be inspected rather than replaced when a vehicle receives its first or second brake job. By the time the rear linings are worn out, most drum brakes have seen a lot of miles. The hardware inside the drum is usually in poor condition and should be replaced. Drum brake hardware includes: ● Return springs that retract the shoes away from the drums when the brakes are released. These may weaken and stretch with age, allowing the brake to drag rather than turn freely when the brakes are released. ● Hold-down springs retain the shoes and allow the shoes to move sideways on the brake backing plate. A broken spring can allow unwanted shoe movement inside the drum. It also may cause noise or wedge itself between the shoe and drum causing the brake to drag or seize. ● Adjuster spring(s) help maintain tension on the self-adjuster so

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May 2014 | Counterman

the adjuster can compensate for shoe wear. ● Self-adjuster mechanism compensates for brake wear to brake pedal play doesn’t increase as the linings on the brake shoes wear down. Corrosion and dirt can often jam a self-adjuster and prevent it from working. ● Parking brake adjuster cable works with the parking brake linkage to push the shoes outward against the drum when the parking brake is applied. Disc brakes also have hardware that’s just as important as drum hardware. There are no hold-down springs, return springs or adjusters, but disc brake calipers do have slides, mounting pins and bushings that can cause problems if the hardware is worn, badly corroded or damaged. In a typical single-piston floating caliper, the caliper slides inward as the piston pushes the inner pad out against the rotor. If the caliper fails to slide because the mounting hardware is worn or corroded, the caliper will not move and force the inner brake pad do all the work. This will cause the inner pad to wear rapidly and also reduce braking effectiveness. Also if the caliper moves inward but fails to slide back to its original position, the pads can drag against the rotor. Replacing the hardware and lubricating the slides with high temperature brake grease (never ordinary chassis grease) will assure normal operation and smooth, even braking. Other “hardware” that also may need replacing on disc brakes inContinued on page 46

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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor

Motor Oils — More Changes On The Way s automakers put more and more emphasis on fuel economy, durability and extended service intervals, motor oil specifications continue to evolve to reduce friction, wear, aeration and viscosity breakdown. The current International Lubricants Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC) GF-5 oil standards will be upgraded again in a couple of years. Although that’s down the

Tech Tip

road a bit, it’s important to know that many automakers have developed, and will continue to develop, their own oil quality and performance standards. Back in 2011, GM developed its “dexos 1” specification for gasoline engines and “dexos 2” for diesel engines. Both specs call for a highquality synthetic blend that can meet tough durability and performance standards. GM says oils that meet their dexos requirement

exceed those of the current GF-5 requirements. GM recommends oil that meets the dexos specifications for all 2011 and newer GM engines. Motorists are free to use any oil in their engines, but if they have an engine problem as a result of using an oil that does not meet the dexos requirements, repairs may not be covered under warranty. Any brand of oil that meets the dexos requirements can display the dexos label on their product provided

Courtesy of LIQUI MOLY

The motor oil of the future will have a lower viscosity and be more Increasingly more economical engines place waxing demands on motor oil.

resistant to aging and have high resistance to wear. This ven lower viscosity, even higher performance, even more specialization — this is the motor oil of the fu- is achieved by use of various additive packages, whereby the friction modifier plays a very special role here. ture, according to Oliver Kuhn from the research The tolerances inside the engine as well as those of department of the motor oil specialist LIQUI MOLY. the engine in relation to the motor oil Garages will have to get used to are disappearing more and more. Alhanding more and more different though it is still preferable to add just types of oils in the future. any oil than run the engine without With downsizing, automotive any oil at all, every car now requires manufacturers are attempting to reits “own” oil, specially matched to the duce fuel consumption and simultaspecific requirements of the engine. neously maintain performance at LIQUI MOLY offers the right motor oil the same level. For the motor oil for practically every make, including this means tripling the load: models with downsized engines. 1. In order to deliver the same Everything is produced in Germany to performance in spite of less disOliver Kuhn of LIQUI MOLY guarantee the highest-possible quality. placement, engines have to run at Our online oil directory at higher speeds.The job of the motor oil is to reliably ensure proper lubrication at such high www.liqui-moly.us shows drivers and garages which oil is approved for which car — free of charge and without speeds. 2. Downsizing reduces the quantity of oil in the engine having to register or sign in. Mineral or synthetic blended oils cannot offer the perby 30 to 40 percent.The oil circulates more frequently, formance required by downsized engines. With such oil and is therefore subjected to greater stress. the wear increases and the performance characteristics 3. Even though the oil temperature is not higher than of the oil are depleted long before the next oil change. in conventional engines, the stress increases for the oil. State-of-the-art motor oil consists of a blend of PAO base The rapid circulation no longer gives the oil a chance to oils to which hydro-cracked oil (HC oil) has been added. “rest” and cool down a little. The more performance required from the oil, the more All these factors lead to the oil in the engine aging more quickly. Moreover, in downsized engines the oil has important are its additives. Today, state-of-the-are oil consists of 70 percent base oil and 30 percent additives. to withstand particularly high continuous loads, be more

May 2014 | Counterman

they pay GM a licensing fee plus a royalty on every gallon of oil they sell that is dexos-approved. Because of this, some oil companies that have products that can meet or exceed the dexos requirements have refused to pay GM’s licensing fee. In lieu of such, they state their product “meets or exceeds all OEM requirements.” Regardless of the brand of oil a customer buys, it’s important to make sure the oil meets or exceeds the OEM requirements for their vehicle as well as the recommended

viscosity grade. Many late-model engines are factory-filled with 5W20 because of its low-friction, fuelsaving advantages. But some are being filled with even thinner oils such as 0W-20. For 2014, GM now specifies 0W-20 for their 5.3 & 6.2L engines. A high-quality synthetic blend or full synthetic oil that meets or exceeds API “SN” and ILSAC GF5 specifications should always be used if a vehicle has oil drain intervals of 7,500 miles or higher, or Continued on page 46

highly specialized than ever Two trends are present for further development of motor oils.

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1. The motor oils of the future will be very low viscosity. The lower the viscosity of the oil, the less internal resistance it has — which helps reduce fuel consumption. On the other hand, however, low viscosity oil also means a thinner coating of lubricant on the surfaces. Even higher performance additive packages are required to keep this thin film of oil from tearing. While 10W-40 was a standard viscosity in the past, today 5W-30 is preferred and 0W-20 will probably become standard in the future. 2.The motor oil of the future will be more highly customized for individual engines. This development already started decades ago as automobile manufacturers were no longer satisfied with industrial standards such as API and began developing their own oil specifications. The time is long past, when one single type of oil is suitable for all engines. This trend toward special oils will continue, making life more and more complicated for garages, dealers and car drivers. LIQUI MOLY’s own research facilities and development laboratory cooperate closely with automotive manufacturers, ensuring its place as a leader in production of state-of-the-art motor oils.

About LIQUI MOLY LIQUI MOLY GmbH, from Ulm in South Germany, offers a wide range of high-quality products such as motor oils, additives, vehicle care products and service products. The range includes some 4,000 items. LIQUI MOLY develops and tests its products in its own laboratories, manufactures exclusively in Germany and markets all of its products. LIQUI MOLY was founded some 50 years ago and is now one of the leading companies in the industry. The products are sold in Germany and in 100 other countries.

counterman.com 29

ECHANIC CONNECTION By Gary Goms, commercial accounts editor

Ball Joints and Tie Rod Ends Are Important Safety Components ny good alignment technician knows that steering linkage is the most critical part of the steering system because worn linkage can not only cause excessive tire wear, it can also become an important safety and liability issue. If, for example, a tie rod end or tie rod adjusting sleeve breaks, the driver will immediately lose steering control of his vehicle. Consequently, it’s important for all parts and service professionals to emphasize safety when selling steering linkage parts.

Linkage Configurations Steering linkages are designed in two general configurations, parallelogram and rack and pinon. The conventional parallelogram linkage has been with us since independent front suspension came into popular use during the late

1930s. Because modern right and left-hand suspensions travel independently of each other, the tie rods must pivot through approximately the same vertical arc as the front lower control arms. Independent suspension geometry therefore requires an inner and outer tie rod end mounted at approximately the same pivot points as the front lower control arm. The right- and left-side tie rods are connected to each other by a center link, which is also mounted to the Pitman arm on the steering gear and the idler arm on the passenger side of the vehicle. In the straight-ahead position, the Pitman arm, center link and idler arm form a rectangle. When the vehicle is turned, they form a parallelogram, which gives this particular design its name. Rack and pinion steering is much simpler in design, since the

(Parallelogram steering linkage) The Pitman arm and tie rod assembly are clearly visible on this Nissan pickup. The tie rod incorporates a forged steel tie rod adjusting sleeve for increased strength and reliability.

May 2014 | Counterman

steering gear or rack is mounted directly between the inner and outer tie rod ends. The inner tie rod end is a ball-and-socket design, which forms the body of the tie rod and which is threaded to the outer tie rod end. In most cases, rack and pinion steering gears are sold as “long racks,” which include the inner tie rod ends and boots. Rack and pinion steering is currently the most predominate of the two steering linkage systems. Parallelogram Failure Patterns Parallelogram steering linkages have many wear points that affect the total toe angle of the front tires. The toe angle of the front wheels is easy to remember if you look at your own feet: toes in = “toe in.” toes out = “toe out.” The Pitman arm steers the vehicle by transmitting the thrust from the steering Continued on page 46

(Rack and pinion steering linkage) The tie rod assembly on this MacPherson strut front suspension is connected directly to the rack and pinion steering gear

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ECHANIC CONNECTION By Gary Goms, commercial accounts editor

Variable Valve Timing Sales Should Increase here’s no doubt that parts professionals will begin selling more variable valve timing (VVT) components as the new generation of vehicles begins coming into aftermarket shops for valve timing repairs. The current versions of VVT were popularly introduced into domestic production about 10 years ago. Just recently, for example, I was called to diagnose a VVT problem on a Ford F150 pickup

CLASSIFIED

These camshaft sprockets and timing gears are integral parts on this Ford application. The stamped steel plates are reluctors that allow the camshaft position sensor to sense valve timing. A conventional timing chain sprocket completes the set.

equipped with the 5.4-liter VVT single overhead camshaft (SOHC) engine and with 245,000 miles on the odometer. In the following text, I’ll use this typical example to illustrate the many issues facing parts professionals on vehicles equipped with variable valve timing. Operating Principles The theory behind variable valve timing is simple. Imagine a column

of air speeding through a two-inch pipe at 250 feet per second. Suddenly, the air flow is blocked off by a valve at the end of the pipe. The kinetic energy of the air keeps it moving until a compression wave begins to develop at the valve. The optimum time to open the valve and achieve the greatest air flow is when this compression wave reaches its peak. In contrast, the best time to open the exhaust valve is when a vacuum wave develops at the valve. Variable valve timing takes advantage of these pressure and vacuum waves to achieve a greater air flow through a given size of engine. Advancing valve timing increases low-speed engine torque while retarding valve timing increases highspeed torque. The Powertrain Control Module (PCM) determines the valve timing position through data supplied by the camshaft position sensors or by valve timing sensors. Be aware of this terminology Continued on page 50 Due to their fine mesh, it’s easy to see how oil flow through the VVT solenoid screens can be restricted by varnish or sludge.

May 2014 | Counterman

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ECHANIC CONNECTION By Gary Goms, commercial accounts editor

Rack And Pinion Unit Repairs hen your professional wheel position sensor and various alignment technician torque-sensing devices to provide inspects a vehicle’s steering feedback to the driver. steering linkage, it’s Since electronic steering is integratvery easy to spot a leaking rack ed with vehicle stability controls and pinion steering gear because (VSC), electronic parallel parking, the rack boots are filled with leakand other steering/safety systems, ing oil. Similarly, a conventional steering position sensor must rerecirculating ball steering gear is usually worn out when oil is leaking from its steering shaft or sector shaft seals. An alignment technician might also want to replace either type of steering gear to address steering quality complaints. With that said, let’s look at some new and also some very old steering gear technology currently appearing in your independFrom the top in a clockwise direction, the icons on ent shop’s service bays. this power steering reservoir cap indicate power

conventional steering gears can often be adjusted to eliminate minor wear in the gears and bushings. Thanks to their compact design and mechanical simplicity, rack and pinion steering gears have become popular, even in light trucks. The most common failure is oil leakage due to scuffing and pitting in the aluminum cylinder bore. Since special tooling is required to repair aluminum cylinder bores and install piston oil seals, the most cost-effective choice is to replace with a remanufactured unit. These units are sold in short- and long-rack versions, with the long-rack having new inner tie rod ends and boots attached to the rack assembly.

Installation Issues Before removing any steering gear, it’s always important to lock the steering wheel in the straight-ahead position to prevent damaging the steering wheel’s air bag clock spring assembly. Many conventional steering, fluid level and that the owner’s manual Steering Gear Types steering gears also incorporate should be consulted for the type of fluid required. The function of any steering a steering position sensor that gear is to transform the circular learn the straight-ahead position to provides an input to the vehicle motion of the steering wheel into correctly enable these auxiliary stability control and other safety the linear motion needed to steer systems after a wheel alignment or systems. Whenever the steering the front wheels right and left. replacement is performed. Most system is disassembled or the front While most modern vehicles inteelectronic steering gears are curwheels are re-aligned, the steering grate a hydraulic power assist into rently available as complete units position sensor must re-learn the the steering gear to aid the driver from the auto manufacturer. straight-ahead position by using an in parking his vehicle, many hyThe conventional recirculatingappropriate scan tool or by using brid, stop-start and conventional ball steering gear has proven to be the auto manufacturer’s specified vehicles now employ electronic a relatively trouble-free system. method. steering gears that can actually The most common failure is wear Warranty returns on remanufacturn the front wheels with the enin the steering sector shaft bushtured steering gears are often gine off. As you might suspect, the ings, which in turn causes the seccaused by the power steering oil electronic steering gear generates tor shaft oil seals to leak. Because being contaminated with metallic diagnostic trouble codes when many are designed with the sector debris from a worn power steering problems develop and must thereshaft bearing directly against the pump. When replacing a steering fore be diagnosed using a professteering gear case, the most reliable rack, the technician should inspect sional scan tool. Generally sold as repair is to replace with a remanuthe power steering oil for a metallic an integral assembly, electronic factured unit. Unlike rack and pin“sheen” to the oil, which indicates Continued on page 46 steering incorporates a steering ion or electronic steering gears, 34

May 2014 | Counterman

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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor

Friction—Say Hello to Low-Copper Pads opper has been used in many nonasbestos organic (NAO) and ceramic friction formulas since the 1980s to help dissipate heat. Copper is a good conductor of heat but ceramic fibers are not. To improve the heat transfer characteristics and fade resistance of NAO and ceramic friction materials, many brake manufacturers have used a small amount of copper in their brake pads (often less than 10 percent but as much as 20 percent in some formulas). Copper is typically not used in most semi-metallic friction materials because steel fibers conduct heat well and can handle high brake temperatures. The problem with copper is that it has been labeled an environmental pollutant. As brake pads wear, they produce brake dust. Tiny particles of copper in the dust can be washed from roadways into lakes and streams by rainfall. Environmental studies have shown that copper can be toxic to aquatic life. In 2010, California passed a law calling for a reduction of copper content in brake friction to less than 5 percent by 2021 and .05 percent by 2025. Washington state passed similar legislation in early 2011. Other states are considering similar rules. In response to this legislation, brake manufacturers that have been using copper in their friction materials have developed new, low-copper and copper-free brake pads. Most brake manufacturers are way ahead of the deadline and have already introduced their new reduced copper product lines to the aftermarket. Many of these new reduced-copper and copper-free friction materi-

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als actually perform better than the last-generation friction materials they replace. Improvements include better stopping power (up to 40 percent better fade resistance), improved wear resistance, reduced dusting and noise (up to 35 percent quieter). Finding ways to reduce copper in existing friction materials led to new ways to improve overall braking performance. Thus, consumers get not only a new generation of environmentally-friendly friction materials but a significant stepped-up braking performance. Most consumers who have had the new reduced copper pads installed on their vehicles report a noticeable improvement in how well their brakes perform. Repair shops are also seeing fewer comebacks. Pads that meet the new low-copper requirements are being certified by the Automotive Manufacturers Equipment Compliance Agency (AMECA). Ratings include “A”, “B” and “N” edge codes. Each edge code represents a different level of compliance for various contaminants in the friction material. These include copper (Cu), asbestos, chromium (Cr), lead (Pb), mercury (Hg) and cadmium (Cd). Those that meet the highest rating “N” contain less than 0.50 percent copper and no asbestos, chromium, lead, mercury, cadmium or antimony. New “Leaf Marks” started appearing on some brake pad packaging in January 2014 to indicate the compliancy level of the product. This mark gives consumers and technicians the ability to tell at a glance if the pads are environmentally compliant. CM

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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor

Motor Mounts Tamp Down Vibration hake, rattle and roll. That’s what the drivetrain can feel like if a motor or transmission mount is broken. The mounts are there to not only support the engine and transmission but to also isolate engine vibrations from the rest of the vehicle. Engine vibration is usually most noticeable at idle, especially with four-cylinder engines, odd-fire V6 engines and diesels. Vibrations tend to worsen when the A/C compressor is engaged, or when there is a heavy electrical load on the alternator. Motor mounts are fairly rugged, and typically consist of a molded rubber donut or spacer laminated between a pair of stamped steel plates. On in-line rear-wheel drive applications, the mounts are usually located on both sides of the engine block and under the transmission tailshaft. On front-wheel drive applications, the mounts are usually more intricate (and expensive). The mounts are located at both ends of the engine (right and left), with a third mount located near the top of the engine or under the transaxle to prevent the engine from rolling. Over time, the rubber portion of a mount may delaminate from its support plates (broken mount), or it may crack or deform (collapsed mount). Either way, you customer is going to need one or more replacement mounts. On a highmileage vehicle, replacing ALL of the mounts at the same time can eliminate annoying vibrations and reduce the risk the other mounts failing at some point later on.

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Although the motor mounts on many vehicles are the relatively simple solid rubber and steel mounts, many import cars and luxury vehicles use liquid-filled “hydromounts” to minimize NVH (Noise, Vibration & Harshness). The liquid is contained within a hollow cavity inside the mount. Over time, leaks can occur causing the mount to deflate and lose its ability to dampen vibrations. Hydromounts should be replaced with the same type of mount to maintain the original dampening characteristics that were designed into the vehicle. But if a customer is looking for a less expensive repair alternative, solid mounts are available for many of these applications. The latest technology includes “active” motor mounts that can change their dampening characteristics in response to external inputs. Active mounts can be relatively soft at idle to absorb the unwanted shakes produced by widely or unevenly spaced cylinder firings, then stiffen up at higher engine speeds and loads to limit unwanted engine motions. Applications include certain late model Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Lexus Toyota and others. Some active mount systems use a pulse width modulated control signal from the PCM to vary the stiffness of the mount. The control signal opens and closes a solenoid that allows engine vacuum to pull air out of hollow cavity inside the mount. A bad solenoid or vacuum leaks in the hose connections can prevent the mount from functioning normally. CM

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NEWS EXTRA

Four-In-One Transportation Show Brings International Aftermarket To Taiwan By Mark Phillips

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Alex Lee of Kentfa Advanced Technology Corp., demonstrates the company’s battery dispenser that allows users to retrieve fully charged vehicle batteries while exchanging an exhausted battery, much like propane gas dispensers in the United States.

May 2014 | Counterman

TAIPEI, Taiwan — A four-in-one transportation show was held in Taipei, Taiwan, April 9-12, showing off the country’s exports of automotive aftermarket hard parts as well as electronic components and electric vehicles. The simultaneous 30th Taipei International Auto Parts & Accessories Show (AMPA), Fourth Annual International EV Taiwan (electric vehicle) Show, Ninth Annual Taipei International Automobile Electronics Show and Ninth Annual Taiwan International Motorcycle Show kicked off with an opening ceremony held at the Nangang Exhibition Hall. The shows were held with AMPA and AutoTronics at Nangang, and the motorcycle show and EV Taiwan near the famous Taipei 101 building. Dr. San Gee, vice president of the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA), the organizer of the show, told opening ceremony attendees that the combined shows were expected to bring 60,000 domestic and international buyers. The shows featured 1,346 exhibitors and 3,655 booths, which was an increase of 1.5 percent over last year, TAITRA said. Taiwan is a big exporter of auto parts, exporting $6.6 billion in parts in 2013, up $1 billion over 2012, TAITRA said. AMPA, the parts show, has grown from 111 exhibitors and 185 booths in 1984 to 993 exhibitors and 2,871 booths this year. More than 12 buyers with revenues in excess of $100 million attended the show, TAITRA said, including Advance Auto Parts, Valeo and Delphi Shanghai.

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NEWS EXTRA

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EV Taiwan offered opportunities for attendees to ride vehicles in both outdoor and indoor test areas. “With years of hard work, Taiwan’s automotive electronics have gained global admiration in terms of technology and product quality,” said Fu-Hsiong Cheng, vice chairman of the Taiwan Electrical and Electronic Manufacturer’s Association (TEEMA). “Taiwanese companies can make use of their strengths in IT experience, strong production capabilities and flexible manufacturing systems and research on vehicle telematics, multimedia, semi-conductor technology, software development, GPS and wireless transmission to grasp the large automotive electronics market and business opportunities.” The AMPA and AutoTronics shows announced the Innovation Awards for 20 products in four categories: auto parts, auto accessories, auto electronics and auto electronic end products. In all, 115 entries vied for a chance to capture an innovation award. This year’s winners are: Automobile Parts Silver Award ● TYC Brother Industrial Co.: Head lamp with DRL LED light guide ● Just Auto Lighting Technology Co.: LED low beam system module Bronze Award ● Tan Xin Technology Development Co.: Water-based thermal dissipation coating ● JW Optical: Lamp color temperature-changing structure ● Giantlight Traffic Supplies Instrument Co.: GL-190 90mm bi-LED head lamp Automobile Accessories Silver Award ● Epoch Energy Technology Corp.: Carbon cleaning system EP-580B ● Peterburg Industrial & Design: In-channel wind deflector Bronze Award ● BEAMPRO Technology Co.: Cat’s 42

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pupil, multiple curvature lens ● Best Power Tools Co.: Half-inch impact wrench ● Formosa Saint Jose Corp.: U-AUTO Mat Automobile Electronics End Products Gold Award ● Tintable Smart Material Inc.: Auto-dimming rearview mirror based on all-solid-state with the area switching tinting function Silver Award ● Great Guard Industry Co.: Great Guard Car wheel locking antitheft system ● Cansonic Inc.: ULTRADV ● Chimei Motor Electronics Co.: All round automatic scooter headsup display safety warning system ● MaShin Electric Corp.: MS-300 intelligent battery charger; Threein-one multi-function MS-300 Automobile Electronic Parts Gold Award ● Hestia Power Inc.: High-power 650V 120A silicon carbide (SiC) Schottky Diode Silver Award ● Alpha Light: EMI EMC Free LED current control IC ● ATBS Technology Co.: Thru-Flow TPMS external sensor aRacer SpeekTek Inc.: RC Engine Management Systems ● MIJY-LAND Industrial Co.: Cordless screwdriver Visitors to EV Taiwan, focused solely on electric vehicles of all types and related products, witnessed a marketplace on the leading edge. Taiwanese manufacturers such as Pihsiang Electric Vehicle, Dijiya Energy Saving Tech, GoTech Energy Co., Tatung Co. and Bubu Tong Electric Vehicle showed members of the press their electric vehicles, batteries and motors that are all in on the ground level of this niche of the industry. The electric vehicle market, while

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NEWS EXTRA

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still nascent, has a sizable number of Taiwan-based manufacturers that are producing products for export to the U.S., Europe and other parts of Asia. The challenges manufacturers face include building batteries that are not only lightweight, but pack a punch energy-wise and the ability to stretch its energy to increase length of travel. At the EV Taiwan show, suppliers to Tesla Motors, including electric motor maker Fukuta, electrical-mechanical control module maker Chrome ATE and auto fastener maker Sumeeko Industries took part in this year’s show, TAITRA said. A record 183 foreign companies from 16 countries had booths at the shows. In all, 246 booths were presented by companies from the United States, India, South Korea, United Arab Emirates, Hong Kong, Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore, Bulgaria, the Philippines, Vietnam, New Zealand, China, Japan, Indonesia and India. Taiwan has been an economic and manufacturing powerhouse for decades. The island, in East Asia, has about 24 million people with a gross domestic product (GDP) of nearly $1 trillion. Its per capita income, at more than $41,000, is the 17th highest in the world. In comparison, the United States’ GDP is around $17 trillion with approximately 315 million people and per capita income of about $54,000. Taiwan boasts the 19th largest economy in the world and is a leading center of the hightech industry. For example, Taiwan’s Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., doing business as Foxconn, is 44

May 2014 | Counterman

TYC garnered a silver Innovation Award for its head lamp with DRL LED light guide.

the largest contracted electronics manufacturer in the world, producing products for Apple, BlackBerry and game consoles such as the PlayStation. Financial analysts looking to gauge the pulse of the high-tech industry worldwide need only to look to Taiwan, as it has become the essential part of the equation in the production of electronics. With its relatively small population and limited marketplace because of its size, Taiwan has focused a great deal of energy in exporting its products. Anyone driving a vehicle in the United States has no doubt done so with computer chips produced in Taiwan that are the brains of electronic control modules. At the EV Taiwan show, manufacturers displayed products that reflect an emphasis on vehicle batteries that are relatively easy to charge and plug in and out of vehicles and scooters. CM

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TECH FEATURE Motor Oils continued from page 29 uses an oil reminder system. And for the GM applications, it should meet or exceed the dexos specifications. European auto makers are very particular about the kind of oils that go into their engines. Audi, BMW, Mercedes and VW all follow a set of oil standards called the ACEA European Oil Sequences. Like the API and ILSAC rating systems, ACEA oil ratings are based on specific laboratory test procedures and requirements. The ratings include various sets and subcategories. Each rating has very specific requirements for viscosity,

shear stability, evaporation rates, sulfur and phosphor content, wear resistance, high- and low-temperature performance, sludge resistance and oxidation resistance. So specific oils are specified for specific European engine applications. For example, Audi has a number of oil specifications including 501.01, 502.00, 505.00, 505.01, 504.00 & 507.00. Each number represents a specific oil requirement (much like GM’s “dexos” oil requirement for their engines). Oils with a low volatility index are usually specified for direct gasoline injection engines. If an oil does not meet the specific requirements for

an application, recommend a different oil that does. To make things easier, some oil companies have introduced special “EURO” oils that meet the European automaker’s requirements. Once a vehicle is out of warranty, any type of oil can be used provided it meets the vehicle manufacturer’s viscosity recommendations and basic performance requirements. Using the wrong oil (such as a bargain-priced conventional oil) in an engine that requires a high-quality, long-life synthetic oil is asking for engine trouble, especially if the oil drain intervals are pushed too far. CM

Brake Hardware continued from pg. 26 cludes the clips, shims and/or insulators that secure the pads in the caliper. Loose or missing anti-rattle clips, shims or insulators on the backs of pads may contribute to a noise problem. In fact, anything

that increases pad vibration can amplify brake noise, particularly with semi-metallic pads. When new pads are installed, they must be held securely by their positioning ears and/or anti-rattle springs, clips or insulator shims,

otherwise they can vibrate and chatter. Installing a dampening shim or applying a noise control compound or adhesive to the backs of the pads will help keep them quiet. CM

too, that because tie rod ends are preloaded to compensate for normal wear, the tie rod end should be discarded if it feels loose. Last, it’s extremely important to remind your retail customers that straightening a steering linkage part will create stress risers in the metal that will eventually fracture and cause a catastrophic component failure.

utation is riding on your parts, most professional technicians will insist on premium-grade steering linkage components. CM

MECHANIC CONNECTION Ball Joints continued from page 30 wheel, through the steering gear, to the steering linkage, and then to the front wheels. The symptom of a worn Pitman arm or steering gear is excessive play in the steering wheel. In contrast, the idler arm’s job is to simply suspend the passenger side steering linkage from the frame. The primary symptom of a worn idler arm is wear on the outer edge of the passenger side front tire. Wear in any of the four tie rod ends results in excessive variation between toe-in and toe-out, both of which cause tire wear and steering wander. Since modern toe angles are measured in thousandths of an inch, minor wear in each of the four tie rod ends can cause critical variations in toe angle. Remember, 46

May 2014 | Counterman

From The Service Bay Some alignment technicians prefer permanently lubricated steering linkage parts while others prefer parts equipped with grease fittings. When replacing a tie rod assembly that uses a stamped-steel adjusting sleeve, it’s advisable for convenience and for safety’s sake to replace the sleeve along with the tire rod ends. And because they’re rep-

Rack & Pinion continued from page 34 metallic contamination. If the fluid appears contaminated, the power steering system should be flushed before installing the remanufactured steering gear. In many cases, the pressure and return steering gear hoses also should be replaced to ensure maximum reliability. Last, but not least, always include the recommended power steering oil with the sale. Remember that the type of oil used is determined by its compatibility with the rubber hoses and seals used in the steering gear assembly. CM

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ADVERTISE HERE! Tom Staab Classified Sales Mgr. 330-670.1234 ext. 224 Fax 330.670.0874 • tstaab@babcox.com

Track Talk Like Every Lap, Every Vote Matters They’ve helped Richard Petty, Dale Earnhardt and David Pearson reach the pinnacle of their NASCAR career, and now fans can once again aid in ushering in a new group of legends into the NASCAR Hall of Fame. Fan voting for the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2015 is currently open on www.nascar.com/halloffame and runs through Tuesday, May 20 at noon ET. The five nominees receiving the highest percentage of votes will comprise the Fan Vote bal-

where fans have had a voice in the induction process since its inception,” said Brett Jewkes, NASCAR chief communications officer. “And the reason is simple. NASCAR fans are extremely passionate and knowledgeable about the sport and its history, and have demonstrated that with their selections for the first five classes.” Last year, Richard Childress, Rick Hendrick, Dale Jarrett, Benny Parsons and Fireball Roberts were on the Fan Vote ballot. Jarrett and Roberts were enshrined

One of the nominees this year is the legendary Robert Yates who won a NASCAR premier series championship as both an engine builder and team owner

lot. This ballot will be included among the 54 submitted by the NASCAR Hall of Fame Voting Panel to determine the Class of 2015. Voting Day for the NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2015 is Wednesday, May 21, 2014. “The NASCAR Hall of Fame is the only hall of its kind

as part of the Class of 2014. The following 20 nominees were voted upon by the 22-person Nominating Commit-tee at its first-ever in-person meeting Feb. 21, and appear on the Fan Vote ballot on NASCAR.com: • Buddy Baker, won 19 times in NASCAR’s premier

(now Sprint Cup) series, including the Daytona 500 a n d Southern 500; • Red Fan voting is open! NASCAR fans are invited to help Byron, first pick the legends that will be enshrined in the NASCAR pre- NASCAR Hall of Fame Class of 2015. mier series champion, in 1949; NASCAR trailblazer was the • Richard Childress, 11- first African-American NASCAR time car owner champion in premier series race winner, and NASCAR’s three national series; first to be nominated for induc• Jerry Cook, six-time tion into the NASCAR Hall of NASCAR Modified champion; Fame; • Bill Elliott, 1988 pre• O. Bruton Smith, mier series champion, two- builder of Charlotte Motor time Daytona 500 winner and Speedway and architect of 16-time Most Popular Driver; Speedway Motorsports Inc.; • Ray Fox, legendary • Mike Stefanik, winner engine builder and owner of of record-tying nine NASCAR cars driven by Buck Baker, championships; Junior Johnson and others; • Curtis Turner, early • Rick Hendrick, 14- personality, called the “Babe time car owner champion in Ruth of stock car racing”; NASCAR’s three national series; • Joe Weatherly, two• Bobby Isaac, 1970 time NASCAR premier series NASCAR premier series cham- champion; pion; • Rex White, 1960 • Terry Labonte, Two- NASCAR premier series chamtime NASCAR premier series pion; champion; • Robert Yates, won • Fred Lorenzen, 26 NASCAR premier series chamwins and winner of the pionship as both an engine Daytona 500 and World 600; builder and owner. • Raymond Parks, Your vote matters! This is NASCAR’s first champion car YOUR chance to be a part of owner; the historical selection of the • Benny Parsons, 1973 NASCAR Hall of Fame. You can NASCAR premier series cham- vote as many times as you like pion; while the Fan Vote is open. • Larry Phillips, only Cast your vote today and five-time NASCAR Whelen All- tune in to NASCAR.com on American Series national May 21 to see which of these champion; legends make up the NASCAR • Wendell Scott, Hall of Fame Class of 2015.

Follow NASCAR Performance on Twitter and Facebook www.twitter.com/NASCARauto www.facebook.com/NASCARPerformance

MECHANIC CONNECTION Timing continued from page 32 because some vehicles can use both types of sensors on a single engine. Parts Nomenclature The part that actually controls the camshaft position (and the valve timing event) is called a “phaser.” VVT Phaser design includes piston

and vane-type configurations. In either case, the phaser uses engine oil pressure to push the piston or rotating vanes against a strong spring. With the vane-type phaser, a clock spring returns valve timing to a “default” position during engine start-up or if the VVT system fails. Another part, called a valve

timing solenoid, meters engine oil pressure into the phaser. The VVT solenoid is supplied key-on voltage and the PCM momentarily grounds the circuit to meter oil pressure into the phaser until the valve timing reaches the desired value. The valve timing solenoid also includes a very fine-mesh screen to prevent sludge and debris from entering the mechanism. Timing Chain Hardware In the case study mentioned above, the timing chain guides and tensioners failed due to extended mileage. As a result, the driver’s side camshaft went out of time, which stored a P0022 diagnostic trouble code and illuminated the “Check Engine” warning light. The mechanic replaced both timing chains, the guides and the camshaft/crankshaft sprockets.

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Lubrication Issues Since correct lubrication is critical to the operation of the VVT phasers and solenoids, it’s doubly important that the correct viscosity of oil is used in a VVT engine. Because VVT designs use a metered oil orifice to adjust valve timing, an oil with a higher than specified viscosity can cause false VVT trouble codes to be stored in the PCM. In addition, the oil must have the correct additive package to keep the engine’s oil passages, phasers, and VVT solenoid screens clean. The complicating factor in the above VVT diagnosis was that, at 245,000 miles, the VVT solenoid screens had accumulated enough varnish to restrict oil flow. An earlier mechanic corrected that condition by removing the screens on one solenoid. Unfortunately, the screens on the remaining solenoid were partially clogged, which caused the driver’s side camshaft to slowly retard after start-up until the engine began backfiring through the exhaust. The problem was solved by replacing the remaining solenoid. CM 50

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OUNTER-TECH By Mandy Aguilar

Technology That Makes Us Look Like Magicians Luckily for us in the auto parts industry, we can give Big Brother a small hall pass and thank big data for bringing us a solution to an age-old problem: Year, make and model please?

Mandy Aguilar is a regional vice president for Jacksonville, Fla.-based The Parts House.

oring, normal, same ol’ license plates are making a tech splash as of late! At a time when the world is embracing the “Internet of Things,” with “dumb” appliances getting smart, it’s great to see the un-exciting vehicle license plate stepping into the tech limelight. Appliances, buildings, vending machines, tractors and more are getting “smart” by becoming connected to the Internet and having a computer chip, sensor and an IP address attached. However, the license plate never got its 2.0 day in history; it has stepped into the spotlight all by itself without any modifications, update or upgrades. To achieve this, license plates found an ally in big data. Since Massachusetts became the first state to issue its own required license plate, license plates have spread everywhere. A license plate was issued to one Frederick Tudor back in 1903 (license plate No. 1 - which still remains active) with every state in the Union following suit, with more than half asking for two plates per car. With that law, Massachusetts not only manufactured the first porcelain-covered, ironmade license plate, but also created its second invention: vehicle registration logs. For more than 111 years, we have been logging owner and vehicle data on those logs in separate files everywhere; but, with sophisticated networks of computers and the World Wide Web, big data collection is now extremely affordable. The data gathered from these files is being turned into useable products and services for businesses, police surveillance, IRS and even the auto parts cataloging! At one end of the spectrum there is controversy, as license plates and registration log-coupled surveillance cameras and scan technology everywhere are creating location-based identification systems for vehicles and their owners that are being scrutinized by the likes of the ACLU and

May 2014 | Counterman

Homeland Security. In our current hypersensitive, post-Snowden privacy watch, many are questioning these practices while hordes of marketers are in a mad dash to accumulate this location-rich data and sell it to others so they can easily target products and services to us all. As stated by Jennifer Lynch, an attorney for the Electronic Frontier Foundation in a recent article in The Washington Post, “When all that data is compiled and aggregated, you can track somebody as they’re going through their life.” Tracking and studying our daily routines, coupled with our smartphones’ location data, credit card use and Facebook postings, can give the holders of that data an Orwellian insight into our behaviors and patterns never before thought possible. And what’s most interesting is that we are either clueless or willingly giving it all away. Luckily for us in the auto parts industry, we can give Big Brother a small hall pass and thank big data for bringing us a solution to an age-old problem: Year, make and model, please? Since I was 11 years old, I worked behind a parts counter at my uncle’s dealership in Puerto Rico. Back then I learned that many parts customers don’t really know the car they own — countermen everywhere have heard many a customers utter those dreaded words: “I can’t recall the year on my car, but aren’t they all the same?” OE dealers tackled this problem early on by creating databases with the VIN number, but only for the vehicles they made; not a ton of help for the aftermarket. Soon after, electronic auto parts catalog data providers started offering accumulated VIN data for several vehicle manufacturers and identifying all vehicle brands for parts look up got a lot more precise. The problem was that no one could remember a lengthy string of 17 digits and letters to ID their cars if their life depended on it; not to mention what a drag

it is to key punch VIN numbers into any computer. There had to be a better way! Enter the new functionality of “plate to VIN” data lookups. Just this past February, the Automotive Distribution Network introduced this feature to its WebShop e-Commerce platform. The product takes vehicle registration data collected by Polk and decodes it to return specific Year/Make/Model/Engine info and jumps the customer directly to the Product Category selection view as published by WHI Solutions. As stated in the Network’s press release: “(this new functionality) not only saves a few mouse clicks but also reduces lookup errors.” The technology works like magic. Our customers are embracing this functionality

swiftly. They love the reaction they get from their customers when they look like David Copperfield or Chris Angel by gleaning the specifics of their vehicle information just from the plate. A very surprising fact that adds usability to the new functionality is that customers everywhere seem to know their plate number by heart; I never bothered to commit mine to memory, but apparently most customers do. Technological advances for the sake of technology usually doesn’t mean much, but tech advances for the sake of making us look good and empowering counterpros everywhere to look like magicians, now that’s the stuff of wonder! Can I get an Abracadabra for the other side of the counter please? CM

■ ■ ■

Visit Mandy’s blog: www.mandyaguilar.com

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MARKETPLACE › visit www.counterman.com/ASAP for reader service CARDONE New Product Announcement At CARDONE, we’re determined to have the right parts in stock when you need them. To accomplish this, we’re constantly adding new parts to our catalog of more than 46,000 SKUs. This month, we’re pleased to announce the release of 30 A1 CARDONE reman numbers and 33 CARDONE Select new part numbers. This release features a combination of new SKUs for popular vehicles like the Cadillac DTS along with some exciting new exclusives like Dodge Ram 1500 powder-coated brake calipers.

A Tool Backpack And Trolley All-In-One The Beta Tools of Italy C6T Tool Backpack & Trolley was designed for the professional tool user who wants to stay mobile with their tools. Unlike a traditional tool bag that has a shoulder strap, the C6T backpack/trolley can be worn as a backpack but then quickly switched to trolley mode. The backpack straps conceal inside a large zipper pocket when not being used. The telescopic handle is spring-loaded and ejects with the push of a button. The C6T has heavyduty construction from the industrial strength zippers with oversized pulls right down to the rubberized bottom.

T3080 ADB Pad Formula For HD Applications Textar T3080 is an ultra premium/OE-quality air disc brake formula engineered for high performance while maintaining low wear rates. In addition, Textar T3080 already meets the 2014 and 2021 “Better Brakes Rules” environmental regulations for heavy metals and copper content, an upcoming challenge facing the brake friction industry. Textar now has four different friction materials for the North American air disc brake market. Each material is designed to optimize the life cycle costs for a particular duty cycle.

May 2014 | Counterman

New Chemical Line From John Dow Industries John Dow Industries’ (JDI) Dynamic brand has introduced its Pro Series Shop Chemical line. The Tire & Wheel Care category of products includes a professional grade Dynamic Tire & Wheel Cleaner containing a special polymer surfactant that breaks the bond of road soil and brake dust residue from all types of wheels. The Dynamic-Tire Shine contains a unique emulsified silicon formula, making this product easy to apply, resulting in an even, glossy wet finish. The Specialty Shop Products category includes the Dynamic-PrePrep7, specifically formulated to clean the wheel surface in preparation for applying adhesive wheel weights. This category also includes a general purpose cleaner/degreaser called the Dynamic-Super Shop detergent.

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ROM THE PUBLISHER By S. Scott Shriber

Race on Sunday, Deliver Parts On Monday… ell, I guess that’s not really the way the saying goes, but it occurred to me on my recent trip to Charlotte that it could be. I occasionally have the opportunity to write a column on my travels and that is the case this month. I was heading to North Carolina to see the folks at NASCAR and thought to myself, “I wonder what parallels racing has to our industry?” I realize our industry has many ties and and a lot of history. But are there any direct connections between what you and I do every day and what these teams go through to campaign a race car? I decided to investigate the possibilities with a trip to Joe Gibbs Racing. The folks at Gibbs were gracious enough to agree to my visit. When I arrived, I was immediately struck with the level of cleanliness and professionalism that permeated the operation. Organization and logical shop flow was very apparent. Each area was designated for a specific task and each area

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Well, in the distribution business it’s all about speed to market. Technicians want their parts in 30 minutes or less.

was spotless. And I am not talking shop spotless, I am talking surgical spotless. In fact, I could have been in an operating room. The only difference was team members were in team garb instead of scrubs. The second thing that hit me was the sense of a common goal that was present. It was very clear that going fast in order to win was the goal here. These shops are clearly on the bleeding edge of pushing a vehicle to its outer limits. Of course, it is all done with an almost uncanny amount of promotion and marketing panache. It’s all about giving the sponsors and the fans the best show possible. So what’s the parallel? Well, in the distribution business it’s all about speed to market. Technicians want their parts in 30 or less. They want the right part and they want to feel value. That all kind of sounds like what I saw at Joe Gibbs Racing. Even if you service the DIY market, the customers expect many of the same things. They want a sharplooking environment, knowledgeable staff for advice and want it all handled quickly and at a value price point. I think we can all take a lesson from the boys in North Carolina. Keep it neat, do it fast, give them a great value and make them feel special. Thanks again to our hosts at Joe Gibbs Racing. See you on the track. CM ■ ■ ■

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