Using ‘VINformation’ ● Enter Guess The Car, Page 14 ● A New Reman Show Coming
July 2014
We also look at: Rotating electrical returns ●● Specialty chemicals ●● Water pumps ●● Starters and alternators ●● Spark plugs
INSIDE
July Volume 32, No. 7
features Tech Features By Larry Carley
Spark plugs: What to do when fouling is a problem. ..............................................................
34 Starters and alternators get a workout. ........36 Water pumps evolving with the technology around them. .....................................
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Specialty chemicals can fix a range of issues. ......................................................................
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Mechanic Connection By Gary Goms
A look at sales beyond the clutch kit. .....................................................................
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Understanding rotating electric returns. .........................................................................
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columns Editor’s Ink
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By Mark Phillips ....................................................
AAPEX is changing it up.
From The Publisher
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By S. Scott Shriber ........................
Do you know?
Counter-tech
World Leader in Race Fuel Technology™
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By Mandy Aguilar.........................................
Can you fill bigger shoes?
By The Numbers
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By Tom Dayton ....................................
Using “VINformation” to decipher some of GM’s confusing models.
See our ad on page 32-33
COUNTERMAN (ISSN 0739-3695) (July 2014 Volume 32, Number 7): 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.
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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
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Executive Interview ..................................................................................
Joe Kripli, chairman of the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA), and Niels Klarenbeek, ReMaTec show manager, discuss the ideas behind BigR/ReMaTecUSA, the new reman show in North America.
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Amy Antenora, Editor, aftermarketNews Managing Editor, Counterman 330-670-1234, Ext. 220 aantenora@babcox.com Larry Carley, Technical Editor lcarley@babcox.com
NASCAR Performance ............................................................................
This monthly special section takes you behind the scenes of this fast-growing sport.
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MarketPlace ....................................................................................................
Every month, MarketPlace showcases the newest automotive product and service innovations your customers are asking about
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Classifieds.........................................................................................................
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July 2014 | Counterman
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DITOR’S INK By Mark Phillips
Big Changes Under Way For This Year’s AAPEX AAPEX this year is expected to feature more than 2,400 exhibitors, 5,000 booths and attendance by more than 140,000 aftermarket industry professionals.
very so often, you have to change things up a bit, freshen up. And for this year’s AAPEX, things aren’t just being changed, but pumped up. The Auto Care Association and AASA announced that Steve Forbes, chairman and editor-in-chief of Forbes Media, will be the keynote presenter during a newly designed AAPEX General Session that is free for attendees. To those who haven’t been to AAPEX before, there were separate AAPEX Town Hall and Executive Breakfast events that featured speakers and panels that delved into a range of industry topics. Getting Forbes, son of Malcolm Forbes and author of a new book, “Money: How the Destruction of the Dollar Threatens the Global Economy and What We Can Do About It,” to headline is big, making this new General Session truly a must-attend event. The General Session will be held from 8-8:50 a.m. on Wednesday, Nov. 5, in The Venetian Palazzo Ballroom. Plans are being developed and more details will be announced soon, including a VIP pre-General
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Session “meet and greet” and book signing with Forbes, organizers say. AAPEX this year is expected to feature more than 2,400 exhibitors, 5,000 booths and attendance by more than 140,000 aftermarket industry professionals. Heat Is On To Hire We’re well into summer and the heat is on to hire. You’re probably looking to fill positions in your back office or on the counter, right? Or maybe you’re looking to make your next move? I’ve got a solution for that. Besides publishing Counterman magazine, Babcox Media also runs two very important auto care industry job portals, AftermarketJobs.com and AutoProJobs.com. The mission of AutoProJobs.com is to help qualified technicians and parts distribution professionals find the ideal job for them within the automotive service/repair and collision industry. On AftermarketJobs.com, we feature positions in entry or senior level management, from chief financial officers and product managers to account executives and customer service representatives. If you’re not familiar with the sites, I’d recommend making them go-to destinations on your smartphone or desktop. Both sites are refreshed daily with plenty of new jobs. CM
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For more information: www.counterman.com Twitter: @CountermanMag
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Average Age Of Vehicles Stays Steady At 11.4 Years, According To IHS Automotive SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – The combined average age of all light vehicles on the road in the U.S. remained steady at 11.4 years, according to IHS Automotive, which incorporated Polk into its business last year. Total light vehicles in operation (VIO) in the U.S. also reached a record level of more than 252.7 million – an increase of more than 3.7 million (1.5 percent) since last year, according to the IHS Automotive analysis from July 2013. In addition, new vehicle registrations out-
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July 2014 | Counterman
paced scrappage rates by more than 24 percent for the first time in a decade, analysis shows. IHS says this average age is in line with the trend shift first seen in 2013, in which the combined fleet of cars and light trucks on the road is older than ever. New analysis, however, indicates the average age of light trucks has increased in the past year to the same age as passenger cars, both at 11.4 years. This milestone marks the first time this has happened since 1995, when the data was first reported.
“In our history of tracking, we have seen a gradual increase in the average age of vehicles on the road,” said Mark Seng, director, aftermarket solutions and global aftermarket practice leader at IHS Automotive. “This year, we’re seeing somewhat of a plateau in the market, and expect it to remain over the next few years, without a major change in either direction. We attribute this to a number of factors, including the economy and the increasing quality of today’s automobiles.”
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AFTERMARKET NEWS
The Network Signs Arkansas-Based Tri-State Enterprises GERMANTOWN, Tenn. – The Automotive Distribution Network recently announced the election of Fort Smith, Ark.-based Tri-State Enterprises Inc. into membership as a shareholder.
“Formerly a CMB member under the Network umbrella, Tri-State has grown significantly over the past 18 months, as the company has expanded its hard-parts business while remaining a leading
supplier of full-line truck accessories,” said Mike Lambert, president of the Network. Operating out of its 160,000square-foot main warehouse in Fort Smith and a 55,000-squarefoot satellite location in Little Rock, Tri-State delivers hard parts and truck accessories on the same trucks to customers in Arkansas, Oklahoma, the majority of Louisiana, Kansas City and a large portion of Missouri. According to Tristan Taylor, general operations manager for TriState, the Network is a natural fit for Tri-State Enterprises, which has added three product lines in the past month, with plans to rapidly grow its hard-parts offering. “Exceptional customer service has put Tri-State Enterprises on the map,” Taylor said. “It’s our people who distinguish us from our competition. So, when we decided to join a buying group, we looked at the people behind the programs. The Network has great people who are excellent to work with.”
PEP BOYS
Reports First-Quarter 2014 Results Pep Boys has announced financial results for the 13 weeks (first quarter) ended May 3, 2014. Sales for the 13 weeks ended May 3 increased by
$2.6 million, $538.8 million or 0.5 percent, to
from $536.2 million for the 13 weeks ended May 4.
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July 2014 | Counterman
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Advance Auto Parts To Consolidate, Move Some Of Its Operations ROANOKE, Va. – Advance Auto Parts has announced plans for several corporate organizational design changes taking place as part of its ongoing integration of General Parts International. The company says it will organize its corporate operations around two store support centers in the Southeastern United States, utilizing its Roanoke and Raleigh offices, and also will reorganize several corporate functions between those locations. Advance also announced plans to close its Minnesota office in September 2015, and consolidate its California Bay Area e-business teams to its Newark, Calif., location, which also serves as the headquarters for WORLDPAC. That change will happen this summer, the company says. “We continue to make progress in our integration of General Parts International. Today’s announcement is the next step in those efforts as we work to enable an efficient and effective corporate team that best utilizes the strengths of both organizations and positions our company for continued profitable growth,” said CEO Darren Jackson. “These changes will provide increased support to our field, commercial and store teams; strengthen collaboration among corporate team members; facilitate more efficient decision-making and enhance our ability to serve customers.” The Roanoke store support center will be the hub for the majority of enterprise-wide corporate functions that support the day-to-day operations of the company. The Raleigh Store Support Center will become the hub for functions that most directly impact customers. Under the new organizational structure, Jackson along with President George Sherman, and Executive Vice President and CFO Mike Norona, will be based in the Raleigh office.
Advance says the transition of corporate functions will happen gradually over the next 12 to 18 months. Following the transition, there will be approximately 1,600 team members employed
in the Roanoke Valley, of which approximately 1,000 will be employed at the store support center. The Raleigh office will employ approximately 600 team members.
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AFTERMARKET NEWS
Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance Pulls Off A ‘Four-Peat’ Win Of Polk Inventory Efficiency Award SAN ANTONIO – In the world of sports, the word “dynasty” has come to equate the domination of a sports league over a significant period of time, especially winning multiple championships on a consecutive basis. The Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance says it is working toward creating its own “dynasty” after winning the Polk Inventory Efficiency Award in the distribution category five out of the nine times it has been awarded. Moreover, with this year’s award being presented to member Auto-Wares, the Alliance has become a “four-peat” winner, earning the award for a fourth consecutive year. “I know it is not an accident or
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even a lucky streak that the Alliance has reached this lofty milestone,” said John R. Washbish, president & CEO of the Alliance. “It is the result of years of investment in building an IT team at Alliance headquarters that is dedicated to a close working relationship with shareholders’ purchasing, logistics and inventory management personnel. Everyone is focused on the creative application of technology and building a winning chemistry that enables the group and its members to excel.” “The key is collaboration between Alliance headquarters and Alliance shareholders coupled with our ongoing commitment to building solutions that make doing busi-
ness with the Alliance easier,” said Dale Hopkins, vice president and CIO of the Alliance. “When you focus on what customers want, and make it easy for them to engage with you; they do. It’s really that simple.” The Alliance’s current winning streak began with Auto Parts Headquarters receiving the Polk award in 2011. The Alliance Headquarters followed with a win in 2012. In 2013, Alliance member Performance Warehouse got the nod, followed by Auto-Wares this year. A video documenting the Alliance’s achievement can be viewed here or by navigating to https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cT rr8z9yQMg.
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Guess the Car ‘Pick Your Pickup’ In New Federated Car Care Sweepstakes STAUNTON, Va. – The Federated Car Care “Pick Your Pickup” Sweepstakes has begun. Hundreds of prizes will be awarded and the grand prize winner will have the choice of deciding between a fully restored 1949 pickup or an innovative 2015 pickup. “Federated Car Care Centers are known for being at the forefront of servicing today’s innovative vehicles, while still adhering to old time values like providing professional customer service, advice and expertise that you can trust,” said Phil Moore, senior vice president for Federated Auto Parts. “We decided to conduct a contest that reflects those characteristics. The ‘Pick Your Pickup’ Sweepstakes is our way of expressing our gratitude to our valued Car Care customers.” The Federated Car Care program is one of the fastest-growing, complete support programs for the nation’s best automotive service providers. The Federated Car Care “Pick Your Pickup” Sweepstakes is open to any fully enrolled Federated Car Care Center member. Current members are automatically eligible. New members must be enrolled by Aug. 15, 2014, to be eligible. To learn how you could become the grand prize winner in the Federated Car Care “Pick Your Pickup” Sweepstakes, or have a chance to win one of hundreds of other great prizes, contact your Federated Auto Parts distributor or visit: www.FederatedAutoParts.com/ pickup. 14
July 2014 | Counterman
Win $100! This Month’s Puzzle
#78
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 July 29. The winner’s name will appear in the next issue. Stay tuned!
Last Month’s Correct Answer:
#77 Chevrolet Sonic Congrats to Henry Harrison, Portage, Pa.
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Standard Auto Parts Announces New Warehouse BALTIMORE, Md. – Standard Auto Parts has announced the opening of its new warehouse in the Timonium area of Baltimore County, Md. Commenting on the new warehouse, Standard CEO Ron Sutton said, “After our last successful venture using this exact model in Western Baltimore County, we’re excited to bring the same level of peak service to the Northern area.” The company’s new 11,000-squarefoot warehouse is staffed by a manager/dispatcher, a stock keeper and a host of drivers. The company says its fast delivery and high inventory model is made possible by the customer service capabilities of a central call center located at the company’s headquarters and main warehouse, only 20 minutes away in Baltimore city.
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Over the Counter By Jerry King
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Federal-Mogul Motorparts Announces Senior Leadership Appointments SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – FederalMogul Motorparts, a division of Federal-Mogul Holdings Corp., has announced a series of executive appointments that support the company’s ongoing strategy to drive global growth of its premium products and leading brands, and its commitment to providing world-class customer satisfaction. ● Kenneth Burns, senior vice president, global supply chain and quality ● Gary Desai, vice president and chief information officer ● Joe Stephan, vice president, business development ● Michael Shin, vice president, global sourcing “The new members of our senior management team have the expertise needed to help Federal-Mogul Motorparts develop and execute our business strategy,” said Daniel Ninivaggi, CEO, Federal-Mogul Motorparts and co-CEO, FederalMogul Holdings Corp. “They will be instrumental in building out our distribution network and in improving our inventory and order management systems, as well as supporting new product and brand launches. They each have a strong track record in driving performance, and I look forward to their contributions.” Prior to joining Federal-Mogul, Burns, 56, was most recently with Rank Group in the role of vice president, business integration, engineering and R&D for FRAM. Previously, he held leadership positions with Honeywell International, Delphi Automotive and
General Motors. Burns earned a master’s degree in business administration from Williams College of Business at Xavier University in Cincinnati, Ohio. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in electrical engineering from Tri-State University in Angola, Ind. Desai, 54, was most recently vice president, information technology business transformation at Honeywell Corp., and before that, was at General Motors. Desai earned a master’s degree in business administration with a concentration in management information systems from Northeastern University in Boston, Mass. He also holds a bachelor’s degree in technology and mechanical engineering from Indian Institute of Technology in Mumbai, India. Stephan, 51, has been with Federal-Mogul since 1999. Prior to this appointment, he held leadership positions in a variety of key sales and marketing roles. Previously, he held senior sales and marketing positions with Tenneco for the Monroe and Walker Brands. Stephan earned his bachelor of science degree in business finance from State University of New York at New Paltz. Shin, 47, was with American Capital Ltd. in the role of vice president and operating principal before joining Federal-Mogul Motorparts. Prior to that, he held leadership positions with Stanley Works Co. and General Electric. Shin earned a bachelor’s degree in mechanical engineering from Missouri University of Science and Technology in Rolla, Mo.
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July 2014 | Counterman
AFTERMARKET NEWS
DENSO Celebrates Grand Opening Of Alabama Facility SOUTHFIELD, Mich. – Global automotive supplier DENSO cut the ribbon on its latest North American investment — a warehousing facility in Montgomery, Ala. DENSO Manufacturing MichiganAlabama Plant (DMMI-AL) – a $2.2 million investment – is part of DENSO’s previously announced expansion plan to invest nearly $1 billion in North America in a four-year period. “Since announcing our Alabama expansion plans in October, we have worked closely with the Montgomery community to revitalize the Smothers Road building into a world-class DENSO facility,” said Mike Bowman, DMMI-AL plant director. “Montgomery has been a
great partner, and we are thrilled to have hired 30 people on the way to our goal of 45 new DENSO jobs here in Alabama.” DMMI-AL is a 103,000-squarefoot facility that will support the warehousing and shipping of heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units and other parts for DENSO’s North American customers. The $2.2 million investment included new equipment, personal property, setup and training. “Today is certainly an exciting day for Montgomery as we celebrate our new partnership with DENSO,” said Montgomery Area Chamber of Commerce Chairman of the Board of Directors Leslie L. Sanders. “This new chapter not only signifies more
jobs and expanding industry, it also demonstrates once again that world-class companies such as DENSO see Montgomery as a place they want to do business.” This investment is part of DENSO’s expansion plan to invest nearly $1 billion in North America – more than $750 million in the United States – to strengthen and expand its product development and manufacturing capabilities across the region. DENSO Expands In Mexico DENSO MEXICO S.A. DE C.V. (DNMX) will expand its plant in Apodaca, Nuevo Leon, Mexico, to increase production of transmission components for its North American customers. The expansion represents an investment of $53.8 million, which will add 8,826 square feet of space and 500 jobs by 2018. The plant will begin production in December 2015.
AutoZone Authorizes Additional Stock Repurchase MEMPHIS, Tenn. – AutoZone’s board of directors has authorized
the repurchase of an additional
$750 million of the company’s common stock
in connection with its ongoing share repurchase program. Since the inception of the repurchase program in 1998, and including the above amount, AutoZone’s board of directors has authorized $14.9 billion in stock repurchases.
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AFTERMARKET NEWS
Ten Students Receive GAAS Scholarships Supported By Gates RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – Thanks to the generous support of Gates Corp., 10 students pursuing automotive aftermarket careers will receive Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium (GAAS) scholarships. “Gates is proud to invest in our industry’s future and support these worthy recipients of the GAAS scholarships this year,” said Jack Ramsey, senior vice president, North American Aftermarket, Gates. “It is an honor and privilege for us to support the GAAS Scholarship Fund again this year.” These students will receive a $1,000 scholarship to advance their education, either at two-year vocational/technical colleges or fouryear colleges and universities. This
year’s recipients of Gates-sponsored scholarships are: ● Jerry Ball of Knotts Island, N.C. ● Courtney Bisbee of Orr, Minn. ● Stephen Brooks, Westminster, S.C. ● Jordan Fowlkes of Indianapolis, Ind. ● John Grischow of Prospect Heights, Ill. ● Megann Holbrook of Odenton, Md. ● Conner Kavanagh of Richwood, Ohio ● Dale London of Hendersonville, N.C. ● Logan Papousek of Hampton, Iowa ● Christopher Weiss of Batavia, Ill. For more information on the GAAS scholarship program, visit www.AutomotiveScholarships.com.
ExxonMobil, Corvette Racing Extend Lubricant Technology Partnership FAIRFAX, Va. – ExxonMobil and Corvette Racing are extending their collaborative partnership that provides Mobil 1 lubricant technology and engineering support to the Corvette Racing team and the Chevrolet Corvette C7.Rs. The renewed collaboration marks the 18th consecutive year in which the Mobil 1 brand has been a major associate sponsor for Corvette Racing and the “Official Lubricant of Corvette Racing.” “Our affiliation with ExxonMobil and Mobil 1 lubricants has been a tremendously successful partnership in the garage and on the track, ultimately helping us win more races,” said Jeff Chew, manager of business strategy and operations for Chevrolet Racing. “It’s such a profound benefit to have a sponsor like Mobil 1 that also con22
July 2014 | Counterman
tributes lubricant technologies to help us optimize powertrain performance, improve fuel economy benefits and increase horsepower output without sacrificing engine durability.” ExxonMobil engineers work closely with Pratt & Miller and Corvette Racing to develop and test new lubricant technologies that touch nearly every moving part of the racecar – protecting against wear and increasing efficiency and performance. The Corvette Racing and Mobil 1 teams will work throughout the TUDOR United SportsCar Championship season to customize and improve the lubricant packages for the No. 3 and No. 4 C7.Rs as they navigate the highly competitive GT Le Mans class across a variety of tracks and racing conditions.
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Federated Member Vaca Valley Auto Parts Celebrating 40th Anniversary STAUNTON, Va. – Federated member Vaca Valley Auto Parts of Fairfield, Calif., is celebrating its 40th anniversary. Vaca Valley is a family business, owned and operated by Jack Martin, his wife Evelyn and their son Trevor. “We want to congratulate Jack, Evelyn, Trevor and the entire Vaca Valley staff on their 40th anniversary,” said Rusty Bishop, CEO of Federated Auto Parts. “Since joining the Federated family, the Martins have always been willing to share their knowledge and expertise with the entire Federated membership and they have been instrumental in the continued growth and success of Federated.” In celebration of its 40th anniversary, Vaca Valley will be conducting several promotions for its customers. June was NASCAR month as several loyal customers were guests of Vaca Valley at the Sonoma Raceway for the NASCAR Sprint Cup race. In July, Vaca Valley will give its customers a $1 scratcher lottery ticket for every $100 spent per invoice. In August, Vaca Valley will host a 40th anniversary barbeque for customers and vendors at its flagship store. Formed in 1974, Vaca Valley was originally owned by Jack Martin, Richard Black and Will Suter. Jack and Evelyn Martin purchased the remaining shares in 1975 and in 2002, Vaca Valley aligned with Federated. The Martins’ son Trevor currently serves as the company’s vice president and general manager. Vaca Valley Auto Parts began with five employees orking out of a 4,800-square-foot building with one delivery vehicle.
MAM Software Releases New Auto Parts Listing Tool For eBay BARNSLEY, England – MAM Software Group Inc., a leading global provider of on-premise and cloudbased business management solutions for the auto parts, tire and vertical distribution industries, has announced the official launch of a new auto parts listing tool for eBay. The module integrates with MAM’s Autopart business management software to simplify and streamline the creation of auto part listings on the eBay marketplace in the U.K. and Ireland. It also automatically processes incoming eBay orders without the need for manual data entry. With MAM’s Make Model Index (MMI) mapped to eBay’s Master Vehicle List (MVL), users can produce “parts compatibility” listings, which match a single part to many 24
July 2014 | Counterman
compatible vehicles. This eliminates the need to produce multiple listings for each part, saving time and money, and makes it easier for parts to be found by buyers, according to MAM. Autopart is MAM Software’s business management solution for the automotive aftermarket. It combines sales, purchases, accounting and stock management into one integrated package, giving businesses one point of contact for all queries. MAM Software says it has worked diligently to prepare the module for launch. This effort was recognized when Auto Parts Delivered, one of the first pilot sellers, was awarded the “eBay Innovative Seller of the Year” award at the annual eBay Motors Awards.
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Michael Cardone Jr. Named EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award Winner PHILADELPHIA – EY announced that Michael Cardone Jr., owner and chief strategy officer of CARDONE Industries, has received the EY Entrepreneur Of The Year 2014 Lifetime Achievement Award for the Philadelphia region. The award recognizes outstanding entrepreneurs who demonstrate excellence and extraordinary success in such areas as innovation, financial performance and personal commitment to their businesses and communities. Cardone was selected by an independent panel of judges, and the award was presented at a special gala event at the Pennsylvania Convention Center on June 12. “It is with great pleasure that I ac-
cept this award on behalf of all family owned remanufacturer of those who have helped make CARautomotive parts in the world. CarDONE a champion of indone has received nunovation,” said Cardone. merous awards for his “Growing this business achievements over the from a single room to years, including the Auover 6,000 employees in tomotive Warehouse Disseveral countries was no tributors Association’s easy task, and I owe my (AWDA) Automotive sincere gratitude to the Leader of the Year employees of CARAward in 2001 and AutoDONE Industries for motive Hall of Fame Young Leadership and their tireless efforts to Excellence award in grow our business.” 1982, among others. Cardone co-founded Michael Cardone Jr. Cardone is a graduate CARDONE Industries of Oral Roberts Universiwith his late father, ty, where he received his bachelor Michael Cardone Sr., in 1970. Today, this family business, spanning of science degree in business administration in 1970 and honorary three generations, is the largest doctor of laws in 1988. He is a frequent keynote speaker at industry and business events. Now in its 28th year, the EY awards program has honored the inspirational leadership of such entrepreneurs as Howard Schultz of Starbucks Coffee Co., Pierre Omidyar of eBay Inc. and Mindy Grossman of HSN. Recent U.S. national winners include Reid Hoffman and Jeff Weiner of LinkedIn; Hamdi Ulukaya, founder of Chobani; and 2013 winner Hamid Moghadam, CEO and chairman of Prologis. Sponsors Founded and produced by EY, the Entrepreneur Of The Year Awards are sponsored in the United States by the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation and SAP America. In the Philadelphia region, sponsors include PNC Bank, Parente Beard, Solomon Edwards, Ballard Spahr LLP, Morgan Lewis, Pepper Hamilton, MFP Strategies, NSM Insurance Group, Murray Devine, Merrill Corp., the Philadelphia Business Journal and Simkiss.
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AFTERMARKET NEWS
Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems Launches PUMP-ED Educational Program FAIRFIELD, Ill. – Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems has introduced a new pilot program focused on educating future technicians in the automotive industry. The Airtex PUMP-ED program will train student technicians across the country in the areas of fuel system diagnostics and fuel pump installations. Set to kick off in the fall of 2014, the Airtex PUMPED program will include select technical schools and universities across the country. Airtex will send its ASEcertified technicians to classrooms to provide the most up-to-date information about today’s complex fuel systems. The technicians will
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show students the steps to make the right fuel system diagnosis, technical tips to avoid difficulty during repair work and how to follow through to successful fuel pump installations. As a part of the program, each technical school will receive training materials along with other valuable fuel system diagnostic and repair tool information. In addition, students in the program will receive an official PUMP-ED performance pack that includes educational materials, tools and more. “Airtex knows that the future of automotive care is in the hands of these young students and we’re ex-
cited to partner with these schools and their instructors to help equip the next generation,” says Brandon Kight, director of marketing and program development at Airtex and ASC Industries. “The PUMP-ED program provides a unique opportunity to pass on some of our 79 years worth of fuel systems knowledge with these future technicians.”
Tenth Annual Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week To Feature New Tool & Equipment Exhibit Hall MOKENA, Ill. – Organizers of the tenth annual Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week (HDAW 2015) have announce that the upcoming HDAW will feature a new Tool and Equipment Exhibit Hall at the conference, which takes place Jan. 26-29, 2015, at The Mirage in Las Vegas. Bringing together more than 600 distributor executives and managers to meet with their suppliers’ executives, this added exhibit space at HDAW 2015 offers a perfect venue for tool and equipment manufacturers to display their current and new tools and technology, event organizers say. Distributors will be able to visit the Montego Room, adjacent to the main exhibit hall, and discover productive equipment and technologies, and witness firsthand product demonstrations. Available to all attendees, the Tool and Equipment Exhibit Hall will be configured with larger spaces for equipment companies to demonstrate their products. Heavy Duty Aftermarket Week 2015 will offer industry participants four days of education programs, a product expo with the latest and greatest in heavy-duty parts, services and information, peer networking and social activities and valuable one-on-one meetings for suppliers and distributors.
AFTERMARKET NEWS
Dan Langdon Inducted Into Federated Vendor Hall Of Fame STAUNTON, Va. – East Penn Manufacturing President Dan Langdon has been inducted into the Federated Auto Parts Vendor Hall of Fame. “Dan Langdon has been a dedicated partner to the Federated organization for many years, and it is only fitting that he be inducted into the Federated Vendor Hall of Fame,” said Larry Pavey, president of Federated Auto Parts. “The Vendor Hall of Fame recognizes individuals who go above and beyond their normal duties to personally help our group improve and thrive. Dan has displayed a real commitment to helping the Federated membership succeed and we congratulate him on this special recognition.” As president of East Penn Manufacturing, Langdon oversees the daily sales, marketing and financial functions of the privately held company that operates the largest, single-site lead-acid battery facility in the world. East Penn has more than 8,000 employees globally and 90 warehouses and distribution centers across North America. Since assuming the role of presi-
Bo Fisher, left, chairman, Federated Auto Parts and Dan Langdon, president, East Penn Manufacturing.
dent in 1994, Langdon has upheld a long-standing, deeply enriched company culture of intrinsic quality, organization-wide integrity, innovative sustainability, industry leadership and community outreach. The Federated Vendor Hall of Fame recognizes one individual each year who demonstrates dedication to excellence, helping make a difference for Federated and its members. For a list of recent inductees, visit http://www.federatedautoparts.com/HallOfFame.aspx.
MACS Announces 2014-2015 Scholarship Winners RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – The Mobile Air Conditioning Society is proud to announce the recipients of its 2014-2015 scholarships for students entering the automotive aftermarket: ● Levi Tofell of Klamath Falls, Ore. ● Justin Turkett of Vernon,Texas ● Sommer Zent of Billings, Mont. “MACS is pleased to assist these applicants as they start their education in pursuit of careers in the automotive aftermarket,” said Andrew Fiffick, MACS chairman. “This is our second year drawing our candidates from the Global Automotive Aftermarket Symposium Scholarship website and we continue to be impressed with the excellent applicants and ease of using the online process.” For more information on the GAAS scholarship program, please visit www.AutomotiveScholarships.com. 30
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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor
Spark Plugs: What To Do When Fouling Is A Problem park plugs are usually replaced for one of two reasons: they are worn out or they are fouled. As a rule, most platinum and iridium spark plugs have a recommended service interval of 100,000 up to 120,000 miles depending on the year, make and model of vehicle. Long-life plugs can often last even longer, but some don’t even make it to 100K. Why? Because short trip driving and extended idling has caused them to foul and misfire. Platinum and iridium are highly wear-resistant. These high-temperature exotic metals withstand wear much better than nickel and yttrium alloy steels. Every time a spark plug fires, the high-voltage electrical arc that jumps the gap between the electrodes erodes away a few molecules of metal. Over time, this causes the gap to grow and increases the firing voltage needed to fire the plug. At 60 mph and 2,000 RPM, each spark plug is firing 1,000 times per minute. If a vehicle travels 15,000 miles a year, each spark plug will have fired at least 15 million times. Multiply that by 7 or 8 years of driving and you can appreciate why plugs eventually wear out. Distributorless Ignition Systems and Coil-On-Plug (COP) ignition systems are capable of producing enough voltage to fire even badly worn plugs under light load. But at high engine speeds and loads, there may not be enough voltage available to prevent misfires. Misfires are bad news because they hurt fuel economy and performance. Misfires also allow un-
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burned fuel to pass through the combustion chamber into the exhaust. This can make the catalytic converter run hot, increasing the risk of converter overheating and damage if the rate of misfire is high enough. Fouling occurs when fuel and oil ash deposits build up on the ceramic insulator that surrounds the center electrode. The deposits are electrically conductive and short the spark to ground before it has a chance to jump the gap and fire the plug. No spark means no ignition, and a misfire. Spark plugs are “self-cleaning” to prevent such deposits from building up. But to stay clean, the spark plugs have to get hot and stay hot long enough to burn off the deposits. If a vehicle is only driven at slow speed for short trips, or if the engine is left idling for long periods of time, the
plugs may not get hot enough to stay clean. Under these conditions, it doesn’t take long for the plugs to foul and misfire. When misfires occur, the Onboard Diagnostics system (OBD II) will track the number of misfires and eventually set a fault code and turn on the Check Engine light if the misfires are frequent enough to cause an emissions problem. Misfire codes are P030X, where X is the number of the cylinder that is misfiring. Misfires are bad news if the vehicle has to pass an emissions test because an illuminated Check Engine light will cause the vehicle to fail the test — and it won’t pass until the problem has been fixed. Replacing the spark plugs will cure a misfire problem due to fouling — but possibly only for a limited time. If the same driving conditions still exist that caused the old plugs to foul, the new plugs will likely suffer the same fate. The risk of fouling is worse if an older, high-mileage engine is burning oil because of worn valve guides and seals, or worn or broken piston rings. On problem applications like these, you can recommend replacement spark plugs that have a higher “heat range” rating than the original plugs. Such plus will reach temperature sooner and run hotter to burn off deposits. Another alternative is to recommend special spark plugs that have an internal gap or capacitor that intensifies the spark before the plug fires to help resist fouling. CM
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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor
Starters And Alternators Are Getting A Workout otating electrical is a product category that includes starters and alternators. Starters are only used to crank and start the engine, so they tend to last a lot of miles (sometimes even the life of the vehicle). That may change as more new vehicles come factory-equipped with Stop-Start systems that shut off the engine when the vehicle stops moving to save fuel, then restarts it when the driver presses on the gas pedal. This significantly multiplies the number of engine start cycles the starter has to handle during its lifetime, which likely means more frequent starter replacement sales down the road. As for alternators, they are working harder than ever before. Every new model year places higher and higher
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amp loads on the alternator due to the growing list of electronic demands being placed on the vehicle’s electrical system and battery. Heated seats are becoming much more common, and some vehicles are even offering heated seats for rear passengers. Most people have some type of device (smartphone, tablet or laptop) that needs a 12-volt power receptacle or USB port for charging which adds to the current demands on the charging system. LED lighting actually reduces the power load on the electrical system compared to incandescent lighting, but those savings are being offset by added power demands from all of the modules that now proliferate in late model vehicles. The No. 1 cause of alternator failure is heat, often from being overloaded with unusually high current demands. Short trip driving means the battery may never reach full charge, so the alternator can’t keep up with the demands of charging the battery and all of the demands placed on it by the electrical system and on-board electronics. Add in high underhood temperatures and insufficient cooling provided by the alternator’s internal or external fan and you can understand why the alternator diodes often fry themselves and quit working. Alternators also can fail if any of the electrical windings in the stator or rotor break, or the brushes wear out, or the shaft bearings call it quits. A noisy alternator is usually a failing alternator. Charging problems are not always the fault of a bad alternator. The battery may be running down or system voltage may be low for other reasons such as loose, corroded or broken electrical connections at the alternator wiring harness, battery cables or engine ground straps. Low or no charging output also can be caused by problems in an external voltage regulator or the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). The best way to determine whether or not an alternator needs to be replaced is to bench test it on an alternator tester. If the unit does not achieve its normal voltage and amperage output, or the diodes are leaking current (ripple voltage), the unit is bad and needs to be replaced. If an alternator tests good, the problem is something else and further diagnoses on the Continued on page 48
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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor
Water Pumps Evolving With The Technology Around Them lthough we usually think of water pumps as being simple mechanical beltdriven pumps for circulating coolant between the engine and radiator, some late-model vehicles have “auxiliary” water pumps for cooling the hybrid inverter control unit or for keeping the flow of coolant going to the heater on vehicles with Stop-Start systems. The auxiliary pumps are driven by a small electric motor and is controlled by the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). On Toyota Prius models (first, second and third generation), inverter cooling problems and even inverter failures may occur if the 12volt auxiliary water pump is not working. The pump is buried behind the front bumper cover and left headlight assembly (which have to be removed to get at the pump). On 2007 and newer Nissan Altima hybrid models, the hybrid inverter has its own cooling system, which is separate from the engine’s cooling system. Coolant is routed through a small “sub-radiator” located in front of the regular radiator and condenser. The transmission also shares the cooling circuit with the inverter, and there is a separate electric pump to circulate the coolant when the start/stop button has been pressed and the hybrid system shows “READY.” Although most production vehicles use a belt-driven water pump, electric water pumps have long been available as a performance
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upgrade for performance and racing applications. Eventually, we will see electric pumps replacing conventional water pumps on future production engines. Eliminating the belt-driven water pump means coolant flow can be controlled independent of engine speed, and can even continue when the engine is off. Another advan-
tage is that a belt-failure won’t cause the engine to overheat. With conventional water pumps, leaks are the No. 1 problem. The hard ceramic seal eventually wears out and allows coolant to seep out past the input shaft. This can also contribute to failure of the shaft bearings. Loss of coolant eventually causes the engine to overheat. Other water pump problems include erosion of the pump impeller (plastic impellers are the most vulnerable). As the impeller wears down, the pump loses efficiency and circulates less coolant. This too can lead to overheating. Also, the impeller (steel or plastic) may become loose on the shaft and slip or stop turning. Pump noise is usually a symp-
tom of bad shaft bearings. The underlying cause may be a leaky pump shaft seal, or too much tension on the pump’s drive belt (check/replace the automatic belt tensioner as needed). Cooling system neglect (dirty, worn-out coolant and/or sediment in the system) can shorten the life of the water pump. A mechanical pump-mounted cooling fan that is out-of-balance can also cause the pump shaft bearings and seal to fail prematurely. On applications that have a mechanical fan with a fan clutch, the clutch should also be replaced if a high-mileage water pump has failed. Why? Because the silicone fluid inside the clutch suffers shear breakdown over time, causing it to slip and turn more slowly as it ages. If it slows down too much, it may cause the engine to overheat. On overhead cam engines where the water pump is driven by the timing belt, the timing belt should also be replaced if it has more than 100,000 miles on it. A timing belt failure on an interference engine can bend valves and cause a expensive damage. Related items your customer will need when replacing a water pump include coolant, possibly one or more belts, hoses and clamps and often a thermostat (which should be replaced if the engine has overheated). Thread sealers may also be needed if the water pump mounting bolts thread all the way into a cooling jacket. CM
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ECH FEATURE By Larry Carley, technical editor
Specialty Chemicals Can Fix A Range Of Issues ne of the hottest chemical categories these days is fuel cleaner additives. There are basically three types: Gas treatments — low-dosage cleaner for regular use (every fill-up). These products are designed to supplement the detergents and cleaners that are in pump gasoline. All gasoline is required to contain a minimum level of cleaner — which is all you get with some lowpriced brands. “Top Tier” gasolines contain higher levels of detergents and cleaners, but only some brands qualify as Top Tier products. For the others, using a supplemental gas treatment is recommended. Injector Cleaners — higher-dose cleaners that are formulated to help keep fuel injectors clean, and to
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clean dirty injectors. Fuel deposits can restrict and even clog the injector nozzles, reducing fuel flow and disrupting the spray pattern of the injector that is critical for good fuel atomization, performance and fuel economy. These products provide an extra dose of cleaner that loosens and flushes away deposits inside the injectors. Complete Fuel System Cleaners — These typically contain the highest concentrated dosage of cleaner to not only clean injectors, but also dirty intake valves, combustion chambers and the tops of the pistons. Hard carbon deposits that form on the intake valves can obstruct airflow. The problem is made worse if the valve guides and seals are worn. Deposits that form inside of the combustion chamber and on the tops of the pistons can reduce the volume of the combustion chamber and increase compression, which increases the risk of pre-ignition and detonation (spark knock). Hard carbon deposits on these parts can be difficult to remove, and require a high-strength cleaning product that not only loosens the carbon but can withstand the high temperatures inside the combustion chamber. One of the more challenging applications is latemodel engines with Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI). With GDI, fuel is injected directly into the combustion chamber under high pressure. On port-injected engines, the injectors are located in the intake manifold and spray fuel into the intake ports. This washes the intake valves and helps keep them clean (provided there is an adequate level of detergent in the gasoline to keep the valves clean). But there is no such cleaning action with GDI, so thick carbon deposits can build up on the intake valves and hurt performance and fuel economy. The problem is worse in some engines (such as VW GDI engines) where there is a lot of oil vapor recirculating back into the intake manifold via the PCV system. If a fuel tank additive is not strong enough to clean dirty injectors, valves, combustion chambers of pistons, professional grade products that are fed directly into the injector supply rail and/or throttle body might be recommended. These include engine Continued on page 48
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ECHANIC CONNECTION By Gary Goms, commercial accounts editor
A Look At Sales Beyond the Clutch Kit or the professional auto technician, the packaging of newly manufactured clutch replacement parts into kits has been the greatest invention since sliced bread. Prior to the popular introduction of clutch kits, the technician’s only choice was to use very expensive original equipment (OE) parts, expensive new aftermarket parts when available, or remanufactured parts of questionable quality. While remanufactured was, for many years, the only source providing the required availability and coverage, many reman clutches never made it out of the shop due to quality control problems. When clutch kits with new OE-specification parts were introduced, they rapidly dominated the professional market due to their reliability and superior performance. In most applications, a clutch kit contains a new disk, pressure plate, pilot bearing or bushing, release bearing where applicable and alignment tool. To keep costs down, the release bearing is often supplied separately in applications using hydraulic clutch linkages. But, while a modern clutch kit is an excellent bargain for the professional technician, the Continued on page 44
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This photo illustrates the importance of replacing all related parts. In this case, the pressure plate’s diaphragm spring was ruined by the clutch release bearing seizing due to loss of lubrication. counterman.com 41
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ECHANIC CONNECTION By Gary Goms, commercial accounts editor
Understanding Rotating Electric Returns ealing with rotating electrical problems is usually a constant for many parts professionals because most DIY customers and some professional technicians don’t fully understand how the starting and charging systems work. And, even worse, some professional shops don’t have the tooling required to perform a thorough diagnosis of rotating electrical problems. Nevertheless, many rotating electrical problems can be solved by using the full capability of your handheld battery analyzer and your alternator-starter test bench. So, let’s begin by looking at some typical rotating electrical complaints.
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Slow Cranking/No Start Since the starting motor must crank the engine at least 250 rpm to activate the fuel delivery and ignition system, the battery should always be tested and replaced if necessary before attempting to diagnose rotating electrical problems. Assuming the engine hasn’t been damaged from lack of lubrication, slow cranking is usually caused by a bad battery or corroded battery connections, which reduces voltage to the starter motor. When using the starter test feature in your handheld battery analyzer, observe the battery voltage. The battery should maintain at least 9.5 volts during cranking. If the voltage is Continued on page 46
The surface of a good battery should be clean and dry with little or no corrosion at the terminals. Wet, heavily corroded batteries are a major indicator of battery and rotating electrical problems. counterman.com 43
MECHANIC CONNECTION Clutch Kit continued from page 41 potential for related parts sales doesn’t stop there. Flywheel Inspections The flywheel is actually the foundation for the clutch. Because flywheels are made from cast iron, high surface temperatures and friction coefficients will cause the flywheel to develop hardened areas, warpage, or run-out and wobble. If the flywheel isn’t successfully resurfaced or replaced with new, the clutch installation will not be successful. Flywheels with cracks in the friction face should automatically be discarded because they are unsafe at high engine speeds. Similarly, if overheating has turned the friction face a dark blue, it’s highly probable that the flywheel has developed hardened areas that will eventually cause clutch chatter and pedal release complaints. The flywheel starter ring gear must also be inspected for worn, chipped -or missing teeth.
Tech Tip
As this photo illustrates, this hydraulic clutch release bearing has badly deteriorated at 130,000 miles, which is why a new assembly should be included in a clutch replacement estimate.
Hydraulic Clutch Linkages Hydraulic clutch linkages are built in external versions that mount on the outside of the clutch bell housing and internal versions, which attach to the front of the transmission assembly. Due to similar wear and failure rates, most veteran technicians believe that the hydraulic clutch linkage should be
replaced at the same time as the clutch. Before replacing the clutch assembly, a technician should check the fluid level and color in the hydraulic clutch linkage reservoir. If the fluid level is excessively low and has a black color, the seals at the hydraulic release bearing are leaking. To prevent potential comeContinued on page 48
Courtesy of Schaeffler Group USA Inc.
The Types Of Noise Associated With The Clutch Assembly
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oise can resonate from many areas of a vehicle’s driveline. There are several types of noise associated with the clutch assembly. The release bearing is most often blamed for being the cause of noise, when, in many cases it is not the release bearing at all. For example, technicians often describe a squeaking noise emanating from the bell housing. This noise occurs while the vehicle is idling in neutral, and goes away when slight pressure to the clutch pedal is applied. Technicians frequently mistake the release bearing as the source of this squeaking. The true cause is low release system preload. A defective or worn release bearing will make more noise when the clutch pedal is depressed. Modern hydraulic and self-adjusting cable clutch release systems require a preload on the release bearing. The bearing requires a preload of approximately 28 lbs. This preload causes the release bearing to run constant-
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ly on the clutch diaphragm fingers when the engine is running. Insufficient preload allows the release system components, such as the clutch release fork, to be loose on the pivot points. The fork will move around more than when the preload is correct, often causing a squeaking or clunking noise. In hydraulic systems, the preload is provided by a spring in the slave cylinder. To prevent or eliminate noise associated with low preload, install a new slave cylinder. In cable systems, the preload is provided by the ratchet and pawl. To prevent or eliminate noise associated with low preload, replace the cable with a new cable. Replacing the cable will allow the ratchet and pawl mechanism to maintain the proper tension and provide the correct preload to eliminate noise. Additionally, be sure to inspect the ratchet and pawl for excessive wear. Important Tip: A faulty release bearing will make MORE noise when a load is applied (clutch pedal depressed) NOT LESS.
MECHANIC CONNECTION Electric continued from page 43 lower, make sure that the cold cranking amp (CCA) rating of the battery meets original equipment specifications. If the battery tests good and the positive and ground cable connections are clean and tight, the starter likely has a cracked permanent field magnet or worn armature bushings. Your starter/alternator test bench should confirm this condition. The Starter “Clicks” If the starter intermittently makes a loud clicking noise, but won’t engage, the starter solenoid contacts or the starter’s brush and commutator assembly might be defective. Since the starter is drawing very little amperage, the battery voltage (as indicated by your handheld tester) will remain nearly the same when the starter is engaged. In most cases, the “clicks but won’t crank” complaint will be solved by replacing the starter. No “Clicking Noise” In many applications, the starter is often controlled, not by the ignition switch, but the Powertrain Control Module (PCM). If the vehicle application is a post-2000 model and has
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The alternator should always show battery voltage at the large B+ terminal. When diagnosing intermittent charging problems, always recommend checking the smaller field connector for broken wires and bad terminal connections a replacing if necessary.
a starter relay in the underhood fuse/relay box, there is a high probability that the starter is activated by the PCM. If the relay clicks when the ignition switch is turned to the “start” position, the starter itself might be at fault. If the relay doesn’t click, it’s time to to test the starter system functions by connecting a professional scan tool. If the scan tool can’t communicate with the PCM, the expertise of a qualified driveability technician is required to diagnose and repair the problem. Alternator Issues Multiple warranty returns are an excellent indicator that the new or remanufactured alternator is failing
due to a bad battery, bad connections or broken wiring, or even a bad PCM. A battery with a bad cell will cause the new alternator to charge at a much higher amperage than normal. On the other hand, a battery that is badly sulfated will charge at a very low amperage, which results in poor starting performance. Sulfation is usually caused by short-trip driving or storing the vehicle for extended periods. Some new and remanufactured alternators include a new voltage regulator pigtail that must be installed to correct potentially defective wiring problems at the field connector. When installed, the new alternator must have battery voltage at its “B+” terminal. If B+ voltage isn’t present, the B+ circuit might have an open circuit in the form of a burned fusible link or missing/broken wire. If the battery tests good and the alternator tests good on your test bench, have a qualified technician use his professional scan tool to test the alternator function with the alternator installed. In many modern applications, the alternator is controlled by the PCM, which means that the no-charging condition could be caused by a bad PCM. CM
TECH FEATURE
MECHANIC CONNECTION Clutch Kit continued from page 44 back complaints, a new clutch master cylinder and slave cylinder is a highly recommended option. Installation Techniques Since professional technicians hate comebacks, here are some recommendations that will help the new clutch perform as it was designed. To prevent oil from ruining the new clutch, inspect the crankshaft and transmission input seals for leakage and replace as required. Next, clean rust and dirt from the crankshaft mounting flange and mating surface of the flywheel. Torque the flywheel mounting bolts to specification, using thread sealer if required. To prevent clutch chatter, use brake cleaner and a clean shop towel to remove all traces of dirt and grease from the friction faces of
the clutch disk, pressure plate, and flywheel. While we’re at it, use a wire brush to remove rust and dirt from the transmission input shaft splines and lubricate with an aerosol silicone compound. After the clutch disk is aligned with the included alignment tool, tighten each pressure plate bolt incrementally to ensure against warping the pressure plate cover. If the vehicle uses mechanical clutch linkage, make sure the inside of the clutch release bearing collar is greased for smooth operation. Last, always use some homemade guide pins to align the transmission with the clutch bell housing and use a professional transmission jack to avoid damaging the clutch disk hub as the transmission input shaft is inserted into the clutch assembly. CM
Starters continued from page 36 vehicle will be necessary to determine what’s causing the charging problem. If repeat alternator failures have occurred on a “high demand” vehicle (police car, emergency vehicle, delivery vehicle or one with a killer aftermarket high amp sound system), upgrading to a high output alternator may be recommended. A high-output alternator is designed to produce more amps than a stock replacement unit. Installation is a simple bolton, but some modifications may be required in the alternator wiring harness (larger gauge wire) to handle the extra current. Other items a customer may need when replacing an alternator include a new serpentine belt, a tool for releasing an automatic belt tensioner, and/or a new automatic tensioner (if the old tensioner is not working correctly). CM
Chemicals continued from page 40 “top cleaners” that have to soak for a period of time with the engine off to loosen stubborn deposits. An oil change is recommended after using a top cleaner because some of the cleaner will get past the rings into the crankcase. Dirty throttle bodies can also affect performance. Aerosol throttle cleaner is a good product for removing varnish deposits from the throttle body and intake manifold. Some intake manifold cleaners are designed to be fed into the manifold through a vacuum port while the engine is running. Dirty Mass Airflow Sensors can also cause drivability problems and set fuel mixture codes. An aerosol electronics cleaner or MAF sensor cleaner is the only type of product that should be used to clean a dirty MAF sensor. CM 48
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EXECUTIVE INTERVIEW APRA’s Joe Kripli and ReMaTec Show Manager Niels Klarenbeek Discuss Big R/ReMaTec USA oe Kripli, chairman of the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA), and Niels Klarenbeek, ReMaTec show manager, discuss the ideas behind BigR/ReMaTecUSA, the new reman show in North America. Remanufacturing is big business and getting bigger all the time. Now, on the heels of the success of its remanufacturing event in Europe, APRA and ReMaTec bring their formula for success to Las Vegas. The event organizers say it promises to reboot expectations of such exhibitions in the United States. The inaugural Big R/ReMaTecUSA trade show, which takes place Nov. 1-3, just prior to Industry Week, has already sold more than three quarters of its floor space. Here, Joe Kripli, chairman of the Automotive Parts Remanufacturers Association (APRA), and ReMaTec show manager Niels Klarenbeek explain why Big R will be an unmissable event. APRA, and Amsterdam RAI, the owners and organizers of ReMaTec, are organizing a comprehensive new show for automotive and heavy-duty remanufacturing in the USA. The new show will combine the best of the current International Big R Show in Las Vegas and the ReMaTec show in Amsterdam. Initiated by APRA in 2001 as the first exhibition of its kind in Europe, ReMaTec was bought by Amsterdam RAI in 2005. It has grown exponentially over the past decade to become the world’s largest remanufacturing show, attracting visitors from no less than 63 countries to the 2013 edition. “The two show organizers are now working together to create something similar in the United States, the world’s largest remanu-
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APRA’s Kripli, left, and ReMaTec’s Klarenbeek.
facturing marketplace,” said Kripli. “The Amsterdam show combines the bigger players with the smaller rebuilders all under one roof, covering the spectrum of auto remanufacturing, from starters to alternators, gearboxes to transmissions. In the States, on the other hand, every product type and association currently has its own event. Our strategic idea is to export the wide-ranging nature of ReMaTec Amsterdam and its professional and crisp approach to Las Vegas in an effort to unite the remanufacturing industry.” Focused On Remanufacturing The three-day event is being positioned as the No. 1 remanufacture show in North America as it is focused solely on remanufacturing. “With a very large exhibition floor, Big R/ReMaTecUSA will enable domestic and international players to gain access to a rapidly developing market,” added Klarenbeek. “The strong lineup of seminars and technical sessions will attract people from around the world. We will bring the proven-in-practice ReMaTec Theatre concept, which features 30-minute education sessions that offer attendees a great
Track Talk What’s #INMYRIDE Could Win You A Trip To Las Vegas NASCAR driver Tony Stewart sits behind the wheel of the 850-horsepower No. 14 Mobil 1 / Bass Pro Shops Chevrolet SS on the weekends, but on his personal time he sports a sleek Chevy Tahoe. The burning question fans want to know: What junk does he tote in his trunk? Now thanks to sponsor Mobil 1, NASCAR fans can get a glimpse of what’s inside Stewart’s everyday ride, plus share photos of what’s inside their own vehicles, too. Mobil 1 has teamed up with NASCAR Digital Media to launch the Mobil 1 #INMYRIDE Sweepstakes, a 10week campaign designed to give NASCAR fans an opportu-
nity to show off the weird, even the funny, the helpful, maybe the essential items they keep in their trunks, glove compartments, backseats or even underthe-hood for a chance to win an unforgettable NASCAR experience – a trip to Las Vegas, Nev., for the 2014 NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion’s Week, Dec. 4–6, 2014. “We’re asking fans to show us their personalities and what is important to them by visiting NASCAR.com/inmyride and sharing their unique images,” said Artis M. Brown, Mobil 1 motorsports manager, ExxonMobil Fuels & Lubricants. Now through Aug. 31, 2014, fans are encouraged to enter the sweepstakes and share their
NASCAR driver Tony Stewart gives fans a humorous take on what’s inside his Chevy Tahoe, inviting everyday motorists to do the same at NASCAR.com/inmyride. Credit: Getty Images
#INMYRIDE photos by visiting www.NASCAR.com/inmyride — a special hub within the “NASCAR Automotive Technology Center engineered by Mobil 1” page on NASCAR.com. One lucky fan will be randomly selected as the sweepstakes winner. That winner and a guest will receive a NASCAR Champion’s Week-themed prize package that will include airfare, hotel accommodations
What you tote around in your vehicle says a lot about yourself. Mobil 1 is celebrating car lovers everywhere inviting them to upload their #INMYRIDE photos and enter to win a trip to NASCAR Champion’s Week.
Follow NASCAR Performance on Twitter and Facebook www.twitter.com/NASCARauto ■ www.facebook.com/NASCARPerformance
and tickets to NASCAR events jam-packed into the seasonending celebration in Vegas. While other sports have sticks and balls, NASCAR has the automobile and a fan base steeped in rich car culture. NASCAR fans are more likely than non-fans to be heavy users of their vehicles, which makes the Mobil 1 #INMYRIDE Sweepstakes a perfect avenue for Mobil 1 to engage fans. “You can tell a lot about drivers just by looking inside their cars, whether it’s under the hood or in the cabin,” said Brown. “We’ve found that many passionate Mobil 1 users take pride in the fact they’re putting the world’s leading synthetic motor oil brand in their engines.” Mobil 1, which marks its 40th Anniversary this year, has been the Official Motor Oil of NASCAR since 2003. More than half of all NASCAR teams in NASCAR’s top three series rely on Mobil 1 lubricant technology, as do many of the world’s leading automotive manufacturers.
MARKETPLACE › visit www.counterman.com/ASAP for reader service EnerSys Adds Group 34R Battery To ODYSSEY Performance Series The Group 34R battery is suitable for consumer passenger and commercial vans, custom and classic cars and SUVs. The ODYSSEY Performance Series 34R-790 battery features a reversed terminal layout, but includes all of the same specifications as its counterpart, the ODYSSEY Performance Series 34-790. Delivering more overall power and longer service life than conventional batteries, the battery features 792 cold cranking amps and 114 reserve capacity minutes. Engineered with Thin Plate Pure Lead (TPPL) technology and an Absorbed Glass Mat (AGM) construction, ODYSSEY Performance Series batteries provide rugged construction for high reliability and performance. Comes with a three- to 10-year service life and includes a limited four-year full replacement warranty.
Penray Introduces New Fuel, Oil Additives To Enhance Performance Of Light-Duty Diesel Engines Penray introduced two new products to help owners of diesel-powered cars and light trucks optimize the performance and economy of their vehicles: Penray Plus Diesel Fuel Prep and Penray Plus Engine Oil Treatment. Penray Plus Diesel Fuel Prep is engineered to keep fuel systems free of deposits and contaminants that can compromise the performance of fuel injectors and other fuel system components. Penray’s new Engine Oil Treatment combats sooty deposits and other contaminants by dissolving them and holding them in suspension where they can be removed by the oil filter.
Delphi Product & Service Solutions Launches Electronic Unit Pump Delphi Product & Service Solutions (DPSS) has announced the launch of its global Electronic Unit Pump (EUP) and Smart Injector repair program for high-performance, heavy-duty (HD) applications. The product launch provides Delphi’s authorized repair network the potential service opportunity of nearly 2 million EUP and Smart injector units. Delphi’s EUP uses proven valve technology from the company’s EUI product line. When used in conjunction with the high-pressure, electronically controlled Smart injector, the EUP provides a complete high-pressure fuel delivery system for HD engines. The injector’s nozzle control valve is electronically controlled, which helps to reduce fuel consumption and improve performance all while meeting the most stringent emissions regulations. Delphi’s EUP and Smart Injector system is fitted to a wide range of DAF (MX and PR), Paccar and Yuchai applications for Euro 4, Euro 5 and US2010 emissions standards. The repair solution will cover all EUP variants, and European specification Smart Injectors. This solution will be available as a test equipment upgrade package to current EUI E3 repair workshops. Repair for US2010 Smart Injectors will be available early 2015. The launch also includes comprehensive support with new test equipment, updated IRIS software, dedicated repair tooling, training and a rationalized repair parts program. Workshops that upgrade to EUP and Smart repair capability are required to attend the relevant training course held at one of Delphi’s global diesel training schools, before they are authorized to repair EUP and Smart Injectors.
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NEWS EXTRA
opportunity for up-close interaction. There will also be a wide range of networking events including an opening party and a golf tournament, allowing people to meet their peers in the right environment. Moreover, Big R will also be the platform for the Remanufacturer of the Year awards, the first time that this prestigious prize has been presented stateside.” Kripli and Klarenbeek say they are confident that Big R/ReMaTecUSA will become a vibrant new part of the rapidly growing remanufacturing industry. And the facts bear them out as more governments, authorities, organizations and businesses around the world turn to remanufacturing for its unique combination of quality, sustainability, cost-effectiveness and employability. According to the United States International Trade Commission (USITC) report, the U.S. is the largest remanufacturer in the world and, between 2009 and 2011, the value of U.S. remanufactured production grew by 15 percent to more than $43 billion, supporting 180,000 full-time U.S. jobs. New Opportunities “The emphasis on finding environmental solutions over the past decade has been of considerable benefit to our industry,” says Kripli. “We are looking to capitalize on this green momentum and the fact that remanufacturing offers quality, cost effectiveness and new jobs. Moreover, we live in a time of rapidly changing technology as many car components go electronic or mechatronic. Only five years ago the average car had 16 electronic control modules but now they have at least 34. A Mercedes has around 90. “A starter now lasts 10 years and quality is improving across the board. This means people have to adapt and ask what else can be re56
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manufactured to diversify their business,” Kripli added. “Big R/ReMaTecUSA offers a first-class opportunity to see what the future holds in the remanufacturing sector as it will feature every component and product.” Focal Point Kripli and Klarenbeek say another important way the new show will deliver synergies is by embracing multiple associations from across the States. “Our aim is to have Big R/ReMaTecUSA be a focal point where associations can have their annual convention and/or meetings in one place, and all benefit from the additional traffic generated,” explains Klarenbeek. “For instance, there are many synergies with cleaning and testing equipment. Whether you are cleaning transmission, engine, power stern or water pump parts, you probably have to sandblast them or clean using ultrasonics. Big R/ReMaTecUSA will showcase the current technology in both and offer information that crosses all platforms.” Why Stop At Cars? Looking forward, Kripli says he is even more ambitious for the long-term prospects of the ReMaTec brand. “For now, we are bringing the industry together in the automotive and heavy-duty sectors, both here in Europe and the U.S. But how about also incorporating the remanufacturing of medical equipment, or the railroads or aerospace? “That would make a great vision for 2020. Meanwhile, November is a super time of year for people to come to Vegas. Our advice is to join us at Big R/ReMaTecUSA a day early, stay a day later and enjoy the life here at good hotel rates. Come one, come all,” he welcomed. For more information, visit: www.bigrrematecusa.com. CM
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ROM THE PUBLISHER By S. Scott Shriber
Did You Know? am sure you do know, but I want to be sure you really know: The parts counterperson is a key part of every transaction that takes place in this $248 billion industry. I am not saying this because I stood on the counter and lived that job, but because I truly believe that this group of people truly keep our nation moving. In fact, I have statistics to back it up. First, let’s look at why we are here in the first place. Americans drive around 3 trillion miles a year. Unless you live in New York City, Boston or D.C., most of us drive to places we need to be. Another tidbit is that the average vehicle we are driving is more than 11 years old (see the story on page 6). In short, America depends on personal transportation. Any mechanical item is subject to wear and tear and requires maintenance. The average vehicle has more than 10,000 parts in it and they need to be replaced every now and then. The older they are, the more parts they need. That’s good for all of us. That’s where counter people come in. It is our job to get the repair shop or individual the right part at a fair price and usually with in 30 minutes. Sounds easy doesn’t it? Yeah right! Did you know that
I The average vehicle has more than 10,000 parts in it and they need to be replaced every now and then. The older they are, the more parts they need.
nearly 70 percent of the time, according to Babcox Media research, the professional technician calls in and either never or sometimes specifies what brand he wants? It is up to you to decide which part, what brand of part, any additional parts they will need and get it there in 30 minutes. If it’s a DIYer, it’s 93 percent and you need to provide repair and diagnosis assistance on top of it. Plus, have it in stock to push across the counter. I know it seems so obvious. You do it every day and with amazing efficiency. Take a minute to think about how many times a day it has to happen. Fifty percent of this $248 billion industry is parts sales. That’s a lot of transactions in one year. It all goes across someone’s counter and someone is making sure it gets there. That’s you! I, for one, am glad we all are keeping the parts flowing. Keep up the great work! CM ■ ■ ■
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OUNTER-TECH By Mandy Aguilar
Can You Fill Bigger Shoes? Nowadays, the increased opportunity to make a sale at a brick and mortar store, just like in an auto parts store, is mostly determined by inventory availability.
Mandy Aguilar is a regional vice president for Jacksonville, Fla.-based The Parts House.
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made a grave mistake this week. I should have known better, but I had to do it — I went shopping, shopping for tennis shoes. Tennis came late into my life, but it has slammed into my family’s daily routine like an ace; we all play! It started just a few years ago when we took the kids to mini tennis clinics. The classes were great, but slow-going, so Mom and Dad, feeling bored while at class, decided to dust off a couple old racquets “just to pass the time.” Now, we spend weekends at tournaments, do cardio-tennis twice a week (ok, maybe once), play with old friends and new tennis “frenemies,” TiVo the Tennis Channel, attend tennis summer camp and even play beach tennis. (Come on — I live in Puerto Rico!) My soon-to-be-teen son (who thinks I’m a teen now) needed new tennis shoes. He is growing fast, like, Transformers fast. The day his tennis summer camp started, he showed me the burnt rubber on his sneakers; they looked worn, like a serpentine belt left for too long on that old delivery truck, even though you have hundreds of new belts in stock. I just happened to have a great pair of still-unopened sneakers waiting as a backup in my closet (I’m telling you people, tennis got us hooked). As a bit of a show-off, I pulled them out and handed my kid a brand new pair of shoes, Daddy’s size! In a strange way, I felt an unplaced sense of pride — my boy is using my size, but it quickly turned to near-panic (man he is growing fast!) Well Daddy’s size lasted less than three weeks; really, he had outgrown the shoes. The kid was headed for a
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weekend tournament and my sneakers fit him like Cinderella’s slipper on her evil sisters. So, off we went to buy bigger-than-Daddy’s tennis shoes at the local store. This is the part where my better judgment went out the door. I traded the availability and choice of buying online vs. the promise of an instant solution by buying at a brick and mortar store. I knew I was going to be miserable, that we would probably not find the shoes, that no one would help us at the stores, that they might have the shoe he likes but not the right size, etc., etc., etc. Well dear readers, prophecy fulfilled! After spending a whole afternoon driving all over town, going to mega-sports stores, tennis-only specialty shops and national sport shoes chains, we returned home empty-handed; a true exercise in futility. Credit to my son, he was willing to compromise on the “look” of the shoes but we could not even make that work as the right size/width combo was never to be found. That night, my son sat next to me on my PC and we visited the leading shoe store online, Zappos.com. For years I have purchased my shoes from this website. My satisfaction level with them is off the charts. I often compare all of my online shopping experiences with them and they beat everyone, including their own owners, Amazon.com. It’s no surprise that 75 percent of their customers are repeat buyers — a retailer’s utopia! The one feature that got me hooked with Zappos was free shipping back and forth. This meant I could order the shoes I liked in two or three different sizes, wait for the shoes
CLASSIFIED
ADVERTISE HERE! Tom Staab Classified Sales Mgr. 330-670.1234 ext. 224 Fax 330.670.0874 • tstaab@babcox.com
COUNTER-TECH
to show up at my condo, try them on, keep the one that fit and send all others back for free. Choice and convenience in my own house; how can Sports Authority, Foot Locker or any other Tennis “R” Us, compete with their model’s limited inventory realities? So, back to my son’s shoes. While surfing the Zappos site, my son soon realized that Zappos “had it all.” He saw many of the same shoes he tried at the stores in the afternoon, but in all the color combinations, sizes and widths (poor guy inherited my EE’s). In less than 10 minutes we ordered three pairs, and by tournament’s time the shoes had arrived. He put on the pair he loved and walked onto our neighborhood court, strutting his new shoes
like he was walking onto the clay at Roland Garros. Nowadays, the increased opportunity to make a sale at a brick and mortar store, just like in an auto parts store, is mostly determined by inventory availability. I remember when price was king; but, in a world of shrinking inventories and the ever-present World Wide Web, we now have to augment their parts availability exponentially. Simply put, our customers can no longer stock everything they need. Distributors and vendors that figure out a way to leverage their inventory, logistics and online platforms in a synchronized trifecta that ensures your customers can rely on your availability of parts, will ensure our customers generate repeat customers north of Zappos’ famed 75 percent. CM
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Visit Mandy’s blog: www.mandyaguilar.com
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Gates Corp. Gates, INA and Litens GMB North America Intermotor/Standard Motor Products Litens Automotive Group NGK Spark Plugs NUCAP Industries Packard Industries PayPal Philips Automotive Schaeffler Group USA K-Seal Stellar Automotive (Lube Guard) TechSmart/Standard Motor Products ThyssenKrupp Bilstein of America Tri Star Engines & Transmissions TYC/Genera Corp Uni-Select US Motor Works VP Racing Fuels Inc. WD-40
23 8, 9, 11 39 25 46 35 26, 28, 58 36 37 14 41 30 13 47 12 16 49 21 6 1, 32, 33 59
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B
Y THE NUMBERS By Thomas Dayton
Using ‘VINformation’ To Decipher Some Of GM’s Confusing Models e have been using “VINformation” behind the counter at our store for several years now, and often use shortcuts to translate it into usable information to identify a customer vehicle. Over the years, we have identified a few “problem vehicles” from the late-model General Motors lineup. When GM introduces a vehicle mid-year, they often like to refer to the old body style as the “Classic.” One popular example is the 2007 Silverado/Sierra. Through a friend at the local GM dealership, I’ve learned that the last six digits of the VIN can be helpful when cataloging these trucks. The “Classic” trucks have a VIN with the last six digits below 500000. Newbody trucks are 500000 and higher. There are obvious styling cues like headlamp design and chassis differences, but these can sometimes be difficult to explain to DIYers, and some professionals do not have a vehicle in the bay while calling for parts. In this case, a simple VIN check can lead us in the right direction. Another common “Classic” is the model year 2004-’05 Malibu. The Malibu and the Classic are very different cars, with similar names. Checking the fourth digit of the VIN is an easy way to tell the difference between these cars, without crawling under the rear bumper. The Classic is an “N” body car, while the Malibu is a “Z” body. The Classic features rear struts, while the “new” Malibu has shocks in the rear. The Chevy Trailblazer and GMC Envoy have both been offered in extended wheelbase models, known as the EXT and XL, respectively. The key to these is the seventh
W We have been using ‘VINformation’ behind the counter at our store for several years now, and often use shortcuts to translate it into usable information to identify a customer vehicle.
Tom Dayton is operations manager for JS Auto Supply in Jamestown, N.Y., and was Counterman’s Counter Professional of the Year for 2009.
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digit. Short wheelbase SUVs (113-inch) are a “3” code, and the long wheelbase version (129-inch) feature a “6” in this position. Saturn vehicles are often difficult for customers to identify, since the “S” series came with a single or dual cam 1.9L, and there was some overlap in 2000-02 with the “L” series, which featured a 2.2L or a 3.0L. Saturn was very stingy with badging, too, so don’t count on seeing the model spelled out for you. Back to the fourth digit, we can determine “S” series cars by the “Z“ and the “L” series by the “J.” As for the 1.9L, the eighth digit of the DOHC engine can be an “8” or “9”, the SOHC engine will be a “7.” In 2003, the Ion came along, bringing with it new designations, known as Level 1, 2 or 3, as well as the Red Line edition. The fifth position codes for identifying these submodels are as follows: • Level 1 – F, G, or H codes • Level 2 – J, M , N, U, or Z codes • Level 3 – K, L, V, or W codes • Red Line – Y code only The last bit of “VINformation” concerns the 2003-’07 Pontiac Vibe. Both featured a pair of optional 1.8L DOHC Toyota engines, known as the 1ZZ-FE and the 2ZZGE. The 1ZZ-FE is an “8” code, the 2ZZ-GE is an “L” code. Both are found in the eighth position of the VIN. These examples are only some of the ways we have found to effectively communicate model designations with our customers. Combined with your own personal experiences, these tips might make it a little easier to identify some of GM’s more commonly confused models when they are presented to you behind the counter. CM