Bodyshop August 2009

August 2009 www.bodyshopbiz.com

Bodyshop CANADA’S MAGAZINE FOR COLLISION REPAIR PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1970

retro going

With new regulations in place, spray booth retrofits are all the rage

WATERBORNE REGULATIONS UPDATE COMPUTERIZED MEASURING SYSTEMS PLUS WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT PAINTLESS DENT REPAIR

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Bodyshop CANADA’S MAGAZINE FOR COLLISION REPAIR PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1970

contents

August 2009 l Volume 39, Issue 4

Features 12

No Time for Later If you’ve been waiting for the waterborne regulations to come out before making the switch, your time is up. Find out what the new rules say about your timeline, as well as some insight gleaned from paint industry experts as well as your own peers.

20

A Hail of a Mess Hail damage after a storm can grind your business to a halt. A paintless dent repair program can get it back up to speed.

24

Straight and to the Point We take a closer look at today’s electronic measuring systems.

Cover Story

16

Going Retro

With the government’s announcement of new waterborne regulations, shops will have to make some serious equipment decisions, especially in terms of their spay booths. Retrofitting could be the answer.

12

20

In Every Issue 4

Viewpoint

28

Subscription information

6

News

29

Internet directory

10

CCIF Report

29

Advertiser Index

26

Products

30

From the publisher

visit us at bodyshopbiz.com In the next issue: Identify steel before planning repairs www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 3

Bodyshop CANADA’S MAGAZINE FOR COLLISION REPAIR PROFESSIONALS SINCE 1970

viewpoint

EDITOR J.D. Ney 416-510-6839 jdney@bodyshopbiz.com

Thanks, Bank of Canada Recently, the Bank of Canada assured Canadians that the recession has come to an end. In their customarily dense way, the economists and statisticians made it known in their most recent Monetary Policy Report that the Canadian economy (despite its tendency to hemorrhage jobs of late) is on the mend and that growth should, in fact, resume as early as this quarter.

While a champagne toast might seem a bit callous, perhaps the powers that be expect the country to at least raise a pint to our collective fortunes.

However, members of the automotive collision business would be wise to hold off on a lengthy celebration until your individual balance sheets start showing the signs of a grassroots recovery.

Perhaps it was a matter of media hype, but the pervasive sound byte of “recession over” seems to me, particularly after reading the report, as being just a tad misleading. Much in the same way I found it somewhat laughable that the Canadian government neglected to call this most recent financial fiasco a recession until the slide reached its definitive second consecutive quarter, I find it equally disingenuous to insinuate an end to the country’s economic woes simply based on one quarter’s projections.

For better or worse, many people, particularly at the top of the financial institutions, have taken the Bank of Canada proclamation and the recent up-tick in the stock markets to be a sign that yes, indeed, the good times are here again. However, at the household end of the economy, you’d be hard pressed to find the evidence. As is often the way, fiscal policy tends to bog down when it comes to reaching the average citizen. As a matter of fact, some twenty years ago my favourite band, The Tragically Hip, said of the problem: “Lining up, waiting on the trickledown. Something’s up, taking time to get around.”

When it comes to running a 4 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

bodyshop, it’s that getting-around part that is most troubling. In an economy that has shed hundreds of thousands of jobs in the last six months, you could see a more protracted slowdown in business. In fact, just driving recently, I had the uneasy experience of passing a relatively new Honda Accord that had twine and scrap metal in place of a bumper. Regardless of mandatory insurance regulations, it’s not inconceivable that the driver is struggling to make ends meet, and auto repairs are low on the priority list.

Therein lies the problem with a tooliteral interpretation of the Bank’s most recent report.

Thankfully, to the Bank of Canada’s credit, it did note this particular problem on page 20, where the report reads: “Despite the upward revision to their spending profile in 2009 and 2010, households are expected to remain cautious in light of the continued weakness in labour markets and the erosion in household wealth from past declines in equity and house prices.” That’s bank-speak for “lots of people don’t have jobs, and even if they did their investments are shot.”

In the end, the Bank’s report says some very positive things about the state, and the future, of the Canadian economy. But, at the risk of sounding like a disgruntled Reaganite, from a collision repair perspective it might be a while yet before you see the full effects of that trickledown.

Fortunately for readers of Bodyshop magazine, what has trickled into this issue are articles full of ideas that will help you wait out this fiscal storm.

From spray booth retrofits and computerized measuring systems to a look at those long-awaited VOC regulations, you’re sure to find something to take on board.

And, as always, please feel free to B let me know what you think.

J.D. Ney, Editor jdney@bodyshopbiz.com

PUBLISHER Andrew Ross 416-510-6763 aross@bodyshopbiz.com SALES MANAGER Jay Armstrong 416-510-6745 jarmstrong@bodyshopbiz.com ACCOUNT MANAGER Jim Petsis 416-510-6842 jpetsis@bodyshopbiz.com PRODUCTION MANAGER Steven Hofmann 416-510-6757 shofmann@bizinfogroup.ca ART DIRECTOR Lisa Zambri PRINT MANAGER Phyllis Wright CIRCULATION MANAGER Selina Rahaman 416-442-5600 ext.3528 CIRCULATION ASSISTANT Roshni Thava SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES 416-442-5600 ext. 3555 VICE-PRESIDENT Alex Papanou PRESIDENT Bruce Creighton

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To learn more about increasing your productivity visit www.cromaxpro.dupont.com or speak with a DuPont Refinish waterborne conversion specialist at 1.800.668.6945, prompt 5.

Copyright © 2008 DuPont. The DuPont Oval Logo, DuPont ™, ColorNet ®, and Cromax ® are trademarks or registered trademarks of E.I. du Pont de Nemours and Company or its affiliates. All rights reserved.

news

Car Wash for a Cure On Saturday, July 11, South Barrie Collision Centre held a charity car wash to raise money for the Royal Victoria Hospital (RVH) Phase 1 Expansion Project, which includes the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre. Throughout the day, more than 80 cars were washed in support of the hospital, raising more than $6,000.

“It was great to see the community support this event and want to help the hospital and future cancer centre,” says South Barrie Collision Centre president Alec Smales. “I am consistently amazed at the enthusiasm this town shares with South Barrie Collision Centre for the hospital. It demonstrates how cancer has touched so many of our lives, and we are delighted to contribute to the Simcoe Muskoka Regional Cancer Centre.”

South Barrie Collision wants to thank the Barrie Thunder Classics, Rock 95, Enterprise, Solar Gard, Carcone’s Auto Recycling, PPG Canada, Vic Parsons, Jim McDonald, and Mike Robinson for bringing their stock cars to add to the attraction, and to all the volunteers for donating their time.

Rotary Lift Unveils Inspection Service in Canada Rotary Lift has recently introduced Inspect to Protect, a national lift inspection program in Canada.

“In this tough economy, consumers are deferring new vehicle purchases and keeping their existing cars and trucks longer,” says John Rylee, Rotary Lift director of marketing.

“This can lead to a major increase in maintenance and repair business for shops that are prepared. Rotary Lift’s new Inspect to Protect program provides professional lift inspections with special pricing in order to ensure that all of a shop’s lifts can handle the increased workload safely and efficiently.”

A growing number of provincial regulations require that all vehicle lifts be inspected by qualified lift inspectors at least annually.

“Properly functioning vehicle lifts are crucial to service bay safety and can directly impact both employee morale and productivity,” says R.W. “Bob” O’Gorman, president of the Automotive Lift Institute (ALI), the independent trade association representing lift manufacturers in North America. “Periodic lift inspections following the manufacturer’s recommendations ensure reliability and allow the continued safe operation of the lift.”

A professional lift inspection will identify any issues before they can grow into major problems. This keeps employees safe, maintains bay productivity, and reduces lift repair costs.

There is no national certification, licensing, or directory of qualified lift inspectors, so shop owners in the past have been on their own to find someone to inspect their vehicle 6 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

Fix Auto Celebrates a Successful Year at Annual Conference Fix Auto franchisees and employees from across Canada and the U.K. united at the Westin Bayshore hotel in Vancouver for the 2009 Fix Auto Conference, held May 13th through May 16th.

Held every year in a different Canadian city, Fix Auto’s conference brings the network together to share in future ideas, reflect on the year and celebrate the network’s success.

“Fix Auto franchisees continue to impress our partners,” says Mike Kaplaniak, director of operations for Fix Auto Alberta, Ontario, and Atlantic Canada. “As a team, the network has done a terrific job. The event gave Fix Auto the opportunity to celebrate its success.”

The conference opened with an intimate evening gathering for the franchisees overlooking Vancouver’s harbour, accompanied by live jazz music.

Fix Auto Canada president Guy Bessette gave the opening speech reflecting on the year and congratulating the network.

Continuing with the champion spirit theme, speaker Peter Legge, CEO of Canada Wide Media Limited and author of numer-

ous motivational books, addressed the network about continuous inner growth, following your inner passion, and how to stay motivated to continue being a successful team in harsh economic times.

Breakout sessions included a presentation

by Steve Leal, president of Fix Auto Alberta, Ontario, and Atlantic Canada, which explained how bodyshops can best profit from their business.

With numerous activities as part of the conference program, including site visits of Vancouver and a team-building dinner on top of Grouse Mountain, the conference wrapped up with a spectacular gala night that included dinner overlooking Vancouver’s waterfront and an awards ceremony for franchisees in each region in various categories.

“This year’s conference was a great success,” says Leal. “The true strength of the network was clearly visible, seeing everyone networking, sharing thoughts, and building on each other’s success. I think everyone walked away feeling like they were a member of a gold winning team.”

lifts. The Rotary Lift Inspect to Protect program now makes it easy to find a qualified lift inspector. One phone call to Rotary Lift at (800) 640-5438 will connect shop owners with local, factory-trained lift inspection providers through the exclusive Rotary Authorized Installer (RAI) network.

As an added benefit of the program, if a

customer replaces any broken/outdated lifts as a result of an Inspect to Protect lift inspection, the replacement Rotary Lift product will come with a free extended warranty, if it is installed by an RAI. The Rotary Lift Inspect to Protect program runs throughout Canada from July 1 until Sept. 30, 2009.

NEW STRATEGIES. NACE – SMART. COMPELLING. RELEVANT. ESSENTIAL. 2009

CONFERENCE: November 4-7, 2009 EXPOSITION: November 5-7, 2009 Mandalay Bay Convention Center Las Vegas, Nevada USA www.NACEexpo.com 888.529.1641

NACE is held during

and co-located with

Changing times, reinvented business models, tough economic conditions, technology advancements and displaced customers have brought about a new reality that demands you make even smarter and more strategic decisions than ever. These decisions will undoubtedly impact your future and continued success in today’s collision repair industry.

NACE IS STILL YOUR #1 RESOURCE FOR ANSWERS AND SOLUTIONS 50+ relevant educational sessions led by experts in their field Engaging key events that motivate, challenge and entertain Unmatched networking with industry leaders and colleagues Additional offerings by I-CAR, PCI and ASE… plus free on-floor education and roundtables World-class showcase of companies having the best collision repair equipment, products and services Co-located with CARS featuring exhibits and 30+ sessions geared for mechanical service and repair Co-located with Auto Glass Week - featuring exhibits, education and on-floor competitions

Visit www.NACEexpo.com for all the details and program information.

Register online today, saving time and money!

news

A Speedy Deal

State of the Industry

AkzoNobel Car and Speedy Automotive Ltd. have entered into a distribution partnership in the Newfoundland and Labrador area. This alliance greatly enhances the distribution coverage of AkzoNobel in Atlantic Canada.

“We are excited to add the AkzoNobel family of coatings to our product line. Our alliance will enable us to grow our existing business and to develop relationships with new car and commercial collision repair customers,” says Ron Gunson, president of Speedy Automotive Ltd. “Speedy Automotive’s long history of delivering exceptional products and customer service are right in step with our values, and we look forward to working together to serve and grow the market in the Newfoundland area,” says Doug Holmberg, director of sales for AkzoNobel Car Refinishes North America.

Mitchell International, Inc. recently released the third quarter 2009 edition of its Industry Trends Report (ITR)—the company’s quarterly publication that highlights industry-related trends, news items, and statistics.

This edition’s Quarterly Feature, by Mitchell’s vice-president of industry relations, Greg Horn, compellingly argues that Europe’s experience with advanced vehicle technology clearly predicts the future changes in the collision repair industry.

“This is a remarkable time in the collision repair industry. The technological advances taking place are transforming today’s vehicles into increasingly complex pieces of machinery,” says Horn. “Just as it did in the 1970s, the high-tech vehicle revolution occurring today in Europe offers a clear and compelling view of the challenges ahead in the collision repair industry. We cannot afford the risk of being left behind. We have to seize the opportunity and prepare to meet our customers’ high expectations for performing advanced repair techniques.”

The clock is ticking...

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8 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

Audatex North America, Inc. recently announced an exclusive agreement with CARSTAR Canada as its preferred online provider of Lean Six Sigma training. The agreement extends to over 130 collision repair facilities in Canada.

The Audatex Lean Six Sigma for Collision Repair self-paced online course provides targeted methodologies for cycle-time reduction, waste elimination, and process improvement that can help quickly improve shop productivity, customer satisfaction, and business-growth potential. The program also offers continuing education units (CEUs) and Audatex certification.

“The addition of this course to the CARSTAR Quality System toolkit certainly complements CQS and the Lean Enterprise program we have developed for our franchisees,” says Sam Mercanti, president and CEO of CARSTAR Canada.

“We’re pleased that CARSTAR Canada recognizes Audatex for its innovative approach to providing flexible access for shops to Lean training,” says John Kotsopoulos, managing director for Audatex North America, Inc. “It underscores the importance of Lean principles in the collision repair industry and the need for new product offerings which address the ever-changing needs of the shop community.”

Sherwin-Williams on Honda and Training

Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes Corp. (SWAFC) A-Plus Network announced a new strategic alliance with American Honda. In forming Honda’s new Body Shop Recognition Program, Honda has approved the criteria set forth for A-Plus Network membership as a qualifying performance program.

The SWAFC A-Plus Network is an exclusive group of collision repair specialists who reflect the industry’s highest standards. These leading shop owners and their facilities are part of SWAFC’s leading value-added program that combines comprehensive business solutions to help them improve customer service, employee growth, insurance relationships, process refinement, productivity, and profitability.

“We appreciate the chance to have our network of leading collision shops be recognized for excellence by American Honda,” says SWAFC A-Plus Network program manager Brandon Devis. “This recent alliance is the latest example of how our A-Plus Network members are recognized for their professional levels of achievement within the collision repair industry.”

The company has also announced the creation of a series of new classes and training sessions designed to provide business building and production excellence development for all automotive collision professionals. More than 30 different educational courses will be offered in the second half of 2009 through classroom, Web and hands-on instruction at various SWAFC training centres in 11 metropolitan areas across the Canada and the U.S. They consist of multiple courses designed to increase business, and include painter certification, AWX waterborne systems, colour adjustment and blending, fleet refinishing, OEM certification training, accurate estimating, workshop efficiency, and many more.

WorldSkills Competition is Here

Sully Speaks The Auto Glass Replacement Safety Standards Council (AGRSS), in cooperation with ASA, NACE, and CARS, announced recently that Chesley “Sully” Sullenberger III, the pilot who landed US Airways Flight 1549 in the Hudson River earlier this year saving 155 people, will serve as keynote speaker during the opening general session sponsored by DuPont Performance Coatings. His address, scheduled for Thursday, November 5, 2009, will focus on how paramount safety is in a proper installation, proper collision or mechanical repair, and proper operation of vehicles, thereby keeping the motoring public safely on the road.

This year’s NACE and CARS Conference and Expo are set to take place on November 4 to 7 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. For information about registering for the event, go to www.naceexpo.com.

In September 2009, 38 young Canadians will be traveling to Calgary, Alta. to participate in 35 contest areas and represent Canada at the 40th WorldSkills competition. Among them will be budding collision repair professionals, and fellow Albertans, Devon DeBoer and Daniel Green, who hail from Calgary and Drumheller respectively.

From the September 1 to 7, 2009, they will be among the 900 competitors from 51 countries hosted by the Canada at WorldSkills Calgary 2009. This competition symbolizes the height of excellence in trades and technologies.

For more information on the competition, visit www.skillscanada.com

Get breaking news at www.bodyshopbiz.com

VOCCompliance.com Your Source for the Best Information on the Low-VOC/Waterborne Refinish World VOCCompliance.com is an initiative of Sponsored by these fine companies:

www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 9

ccif report

Building Industry Image, One Good Deed at a Time Industry Improvement a Common Theme at Halifax Canadian Collision Industry Forum

By Andrew Ross

huck Sulkala, a veteran bodyshop owner and trainer as well as founder of the National Auto Body Council of the USA, believes in taking action.

“I was interested, in the brochure, that they called me an activist. I don’t know that I’m an activist. I think I’m a realist,” he said at the outset of his presentation at the Canadian Collision Industry Forum in Halifax, N.S. But he is a realist who takes action, and who realized years ago that the industry had a terrible image in the eyes of the public.

The impetus to start the NABC began long ago after hearing from professionals in other fields refer disdainfully to bodyshops, and the persistent image of shop owners as rough, boastful oafs like Joey Buttafuoco, who rose to infamy in the Amy Fisher love triangle case of 1992. None of it sat well with Sulkala.

“Somebody had to do something to make it stop, and if not me, then who?”

The National Auto Body Council was the result.

“We believed that there were two problems,” he says. The image of the industry with the public was one; the other was internal. “We had our own self-belief problems.

We needed to start standing up for ourselves.

When we were at a cocktail party, we shouldn’t have had to say that we were in the

C

Chuck Sulkala was so incensed by the poor image of the collision repair industry with the public, he founded the National Auto Body Council in the U.S.

Leanne Blackborrow

Shannon Smith

10 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

‘transportation field’ to hide the fact that we were in the autobody industry.

“And frankly, we need to root out these people that are making us look like fools.

“At the NABC our whole goal is to make sure that what we do and the way we are treated is with a positive view.”

Public acts of philanthropy have served as the cornerstone of NABC activities—from raising funds for special camps for sick children, to the Recycled Rides program that supplies rebuilt vehicles to recognized recipients in need. Many shops have always done good works, but their efforts were fragmented, hidden.

“By working together as a unit we can now, as an industry, track and accumulate these numbers. As an industry we gave away 300 vehicles. We believe this [offers] some outstanding opportunities to help promote who we are. And it also helps our employees to fully understand what it means to be involved in giving.”

Much has been accomplished, yet as recently as a year ago, a meeting with Sulkala’s loan officer reminded him of how much work there was still to do.

He says that when he presented the loan officer with his financial reports, he got an unexpected reaction. “You must be doing something right,” said the loan officer, pointing out the fact that his tax return and his financial accounting reflected the same numbers. “Because everybody else I see [from your industry] has two sets of numbers . . .”

Which means simply that old attitudes die hard—and those attitudes affect both the way others see those who work in the industry, and the way those in the industry see themselves.

Sulkala believes that change must come first from within, and that causes like Recycled Rides help immensely because they require the buy-in of an entire business, not just a handout from the owner.

“When we start doing things for the betterment of humanity, we gain. I think that we need to stop writing cheques and start doing things.”

Close to home, one initiative that has been

having an image-building effect among youth, parents, students, and educators is the industry linkage to Skills Canada competitions.

“This is a link that didn’t exist before,” says program administrator Leanne Blackborrow. Two major goals were set: adding a car-painting competition at the Canadian Skills meet in P.E.I. this last May, and another at the World Skills Competition in Calgary this coming September.

“We had definitely the largest area and we had the area with the greatest visibility,” says Blackborrow of the Canadian competition.

“All the resources and volunteers were provided by industry. As a non-funded event we had to provide everything. One other interesting fact is that Skills Canada was approached

by CBC Radio about interesting stories. They selected four different trades and collision repair was one of those. In a survey of students who attended, 89% said that their perception of careers in the auto collision industry had been improved, with 73% strongly agreeing with this statement.

“It was truly an exciting and amazing thing to be a part of.

“We have to realize that when we present ourselves in such a professional manner, not only are we affecting how those who attend see us, we also affect how we are seen by Skills Canada.

“Being top of mind will give us a lot of benefits moving forward.”

Just around the corner is the World Skills Competition, scheduled for September 1 to 7 in Calgary, Alta.

“World Skills is a huge event. Daniel Green has been training hard for World Skills. It will be great if he can place in his home country.”

“It is also really important,” Blackborrow added, “that we recognize that the sponsors for this program are from every part of our industry. We are working together as an industry, and we should be really proud of ourselves. No other industry is doing this and trust me, this is being noticed.”

And getting noticed is key, says Drew Williams of the Careerbuilder recruitment orga-

In what has become a tradition of sorts, $12,000 was raised for the CCIF Skills Program. The fundraising drive was inaugurated at the CCIF Toronto event earlier this year by Ken Boulton of The Dominion insurance provider. While thousands of dollars were raised from attendees, matching contributions from virtually every collision repair network in attendance boosted the total to a new high. Pictured are representatives of organizations who provided matching contributions; posing in front is Ken Boulton, whose company-issue boxer shorts, which he revealed at the first fundraiser, went to speaker Chuck Sulkala in a lucky draw.

Accreditation for Appraisers In Development in Nova Scotia There is more to the collision repair industry than just repairing damage and refinishing the vehicle. Most in the industry recognize the importance of the appraiser in the process; without skilled personnel in this position, profitability and insurance company relationships can become, in the very least, challenging.

In recognition of this, Nova Scotia’s sector council is seeking accreditation of appraisers.

nization, adding that this is increasingly being done over the Internet.

“If you’re not engaging in the space, you’re not leveraging where Canadians are spending their time,” says Williams.

He continues that according to a report, in Ontario alone half the skilled labour force will retire in the next 10 years, leaving the province short one million skilled workers by 2020.

To help remedy the situation, the industry must employ methods and media that are effective and add to the progressive image of the industry.

“For the most part, the image of the industry is as a little dirty,” he says. “The good news is there has been a lot of progress. I am

really excited about the opportunity to showcase how easy it is to show these changes to young kids and their parents.”

Shops should focus on online marketing areas like Facebook and YouTube, he says.

Ask yourself if you have an online presence; that static online classified is not enough.

“I don’t really think this is enough as a call for action to bring people into the industry.

People want to get engaged. They want ideas.

They want pictures.

“We have to showcase more creative advertising to appeal to this generation. I know that it can be overwhelming, but all I ask is that you try.”

B

“There is a growing industry requirement for current and ongoing skills upgrading opportunities to meet the demand of evolving construction technology,” says Shannon Smith of the Automotive Human Resource Sector Council of Nova Scotia.

She says an advisory committee is currently developing a program.

“The Automotive Sector Council has been facilitating the accreditation process,” she adds. “We all know of the benefits. We all want the industry to raise its level. We all want to be looked at as professional. We are all connected.”

in my estimation

The regulations are here.

Where are you?

By J.D. Ney

fter years of speculation, Environment Canada finally made its intentions clear with the recent release of the July 8th Gazette II, which outlines the complete timeline for the automotive collision industry’s conversion to waterborne paints. In its announcement, the agency said that the new regulations introduce VOC concentration limits for 14 categories of coatings and surface cleaners used for refinishing or repairing the painted surfaces of automobiles, trucks, and other mobile equipment.

Once in force, the VOC concentration limits will align with the requirements of leading jurisdictions in the development of VOC product regulations such as California and the European Union.

“The Government of Canada is serious about cleaning up the air to protect the environment and health of Canadians,” says Canada’s environment minister, Jim Prentice.

“This is one of a series of regulations we are

A

12 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

putting in place to reduce VOC emissions from everyday consumer and commercial products.”

The release goes on to tout the virtue of such a program, suggesting that emissions from the collision sector will be reduced by an average of 40%.

More importantly though, the announcement means that those in the collision repair industry finally have firm deadlines that have been the topic of much debate and consternation at numerous CCIF meetings and other local functions across the country.

According to the Organic Compound (VOC) Concentration Limits for Automotive Refinishing Products Regulations, restrictions on the manufacture and import of these products will come into effect on June 19th, 2010. Restrictions on the sale and offer for sale of these products will come into effect on December 19th, 2010.

As stated in the agency’s executive sum-

mary, “This will allow a one-year transition period [for] automotive refinishing product manufacturers and importers.” In addition, for each automotive refinishing product category, there will be an 18-month sell-through period after the regulations are registered.

The sell-through period is intended to provide the industry with time to sell automotive refinishing products manufactured or imported earlier and to provide sufficient time to all repair shops to transition to low-VOC automobile refinishing products prior to the implementation date set out in the regulations. This change is expected to allow automotive repair shops adequate time to convert their equipment to use low-VOC automotive refinishing products. The regulation also allows for a six-month sell-through, ending on December 19, 2010, to use up all non-compliant products in the distribution channel.

The complete regulation is available in Gazette II Part II, July 8, 2009, Vol. 143, No. 14,

HAS THIS FACILITY CONVERTED TO WATERBORNE PAINT? Answer Options

Response Percent

Response Count

Yes

62.4%

83

No

37.6

50

answered question skipped question

133 1

available at http://www.gazette.gc.ca; the VOC regulation portion begins on page 200.

With the regulations now in place for all to see, even those shops that have waited out the process will now have to face the realities of conversion. And, according to Bodyshop Magazine’s May survey, there are likely still a number of operators that will scramble to get into the queue with their various suppliers.

According to our survey, while a majority of shops had already converted, a significant portion (37.6%) had not yet done so. More significantly, of those that have not yet converted, 82.9% said they planned on converting their shop between July and December of 2009, which would, on the surface, appear to be in plenty of time.

However, given that that time slot was the very last option given on the questionnaire, it is difficult to determine actual intent, and given that such a vast majority selected this time frame, it is possible that any real motivation among the late adopters to convert prior to legislation is simply not there (or at least it wasn’t there in May 2009, when the poll was conducted).

As with any matter of independent business, opinions are varied as to the appropriate course of action. What’s more, when asked for comment on what the Gazette II announcement meant for shops, the reply from industry suppliers was also varied. “For the earlier adopters, it confirms they made the right choice since the advantages are so obvious,” says Jean-Guy Rosa, PPG’s regional manager, Quebec and Atlantic Canada. “For the ones yet not converted, they are also under the impression they made the right decision [in] waiting for the official announcement. Different perceptions for different customers—this needs to be respected.”

Rosa’s Western counterpart, Stan Siemens, PPG regional manager, Western Canada, is more adamant when it comes to those who have taken the wait-and-see tack. “For those who choose to wait till the legislation becomes a law, now is the time,” he says. “With the majority of PPG collision centres already having made the commitment to convert across Canada, PPG is ready to assist those who still need to change. The earlier the better. Anyone who has made the switch states they would never go back to solvent—so get it done.”

In fact, even Rosa agrees that given that regulations are now in place, the time for waiting is over. “It also means the time is running out to convert, so do not wait till the last minute; move forward now,” he says.

We know from both anecdotal stories and the results of the waterborne survey that despite the insistence of paint suppliers, there are still a significant number of shops out there that have yet to convert to the now regulated product. However, one brilliant feature of our survey technology is that it allows respondents to explain certain answers. And, in this particular case, some of those written responses were particularly instructive. www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 13

in my estimation TAKING EVERYTHING INTO CONSIDERATION, HOW WOULD YOU RATE THE CONVERSION EXPERIENCE? (1= POOR, 10 = EXCELLENT)

When asked what concerns shop owners had about making the switch, an overwhelming number of respondents cited cost. Answers such as “Price,” “Cost of conversion and cost of product,” “Cost, recession, and insurance,” literally dominated the board. And, while the cost myth was debunked in May/ June issue’s waterborne supplement, it is worth retracing those steps, if only to get a better feel for the experience of those who have made the conversion. Using a different set of answers, provided by those who answered the question, “What would you do differently if you converted another facility to waterborne?”, one gets a fairly uniform picture of the experience and overall satisfaction post-conversion.

Looking through this set of responses is like visiting with the mutual appreciation society. By far the most common answer is “Nothing,” with a smattering of responses like “Nothing other than a few minor changes,” with one of the more interesting being “Make sure painters are confident with the new system, and don’t have solvent on hand so they can switch back.”

These answers would seem to corroborate the data shown in Exhibit 2, which indicated that 81.4% of respondents ranked their conversion experience with a score of seven out of 10 or higher. More impressively, almost a

14 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

Answer Options

1-Poor

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10-Excellent

Conversion experience

0

0

2

1

3

8

11

18

14

18

Rating Average 8.00

Response Count 75

answered question skipped question

quarter (24%) ranked their experience as being a perfect 10.

Despite the overwhelmingly positive nature of the replies, in the interests of providing a full picture, there was one response of “Close shop,” but without any clarification or explanation, it is difficult to fully understand that particular opinion, and it was in the smallest of minorities. However, it is important to mention nonetheless.

In the end, while much has been made in this publication and throughout the industry about the imperatives of conversion, and the importance of doing so as soon as possible, it is also important to understand that it is not too late to do so. While shops adopting the new technology

59 59

might have missed the boat on some of the “green initiative”-based marketing opportunities associated with early adoption, industry experts remain adamant that while the window is closing, it has not yet shut completely. As PPG’s Rosa says, “PPG has almost completed the conversion schedule and it will be now easier to deal with the slower adopters and will leave us more time for business development.”

Clearly, if you find yourself in the onethird group that responded to our survey and have yet to convert, you’re absolutely on the clock now. As the industry experts have indicated, it’s not panic time just yet, but you might want to think about getting the twominute offence on the field.

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16 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

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With new regulations in place, spray booth retrofits are all the rage

retro

By Peter Caulfield

n early July 2009, Environment Canada announced new regulations that mandate the use of waterborne low-VOC (volatile organic compounds) paints, and Canadian bodyshops will have to comply with the long-anticipated change.

Beginning in June 2010, paint manufacturers will be restricted to importing and manufacturing only low-VOC products. They can, however, continue to sell solvent-based paint until January 2011.

Dan Dominato, president of North York, Ont.-based Paint Circuit Autobody Supply Ltd., says waterborne paint costs, on average, 30% more than solvent-based paint, but the final costs are similar, “as long as you manage your paint department.”

Because of the restrictions, those Canadian bodyshops that are still using solvent-based paints will notice a gradually dwindling supply of their old favourites, as manufacturers and paint jobbers make the transition to the Environment Canada-sanctioned paints. As shops get on board with the government’s program, many of them will need to upgrade or replace some of their painting and drying equipment.

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Some shops hesitate, others jump on board Charles Makad, who is on the spray booth sales team at Paintline Products Inc. and Omega Compressors in Barrie, Ont., says bodyshops that are still using solvent-based paint should start the transition to waterborne paint right away.

“A substantial number of shops have not begun to look seriously at making the transition to waterborne,” he says. “Why the resistance? If [too many] shops wait until the last minute to switch over, they could lose business to those shops that made the transition early and have qualified painters, upgraded equipment, and enough product on the shelf to be in ‘all systems go’ mode.”

going

Makad says most paint companies offer pre-compliance seminars.

“Some are offering shop audits to help determine what is needed to upgrade existing equipment,” he says. “Why not take advantage of those services now rather than later?”

Makad says an equipment audit should include an examination of the spray booth, air compressor, spray guns and cups, gun washers, and dryers.

Despite the foot-dragging of some bodyshops, others are ahead of the curve. Everett Greenwood, a technical representative with Rondex Limited in Winnipeg, Man., says the company has 14 shops that have already converted to waterborne paint, and plans to add five more by the end of 2009.

“We were the first jobber in Winnipeg to convert a shop to waterborne,” he says. “When we began to hear rumblings of the legislation, we decided to start converting shops ASAP. It’s worked out well for us, because now we know what kinds of problems can arise, such as insufficient airflow, painters having difficulties adapting, or dirty shops.”

Like Makad, Greenwood urges bodyshops to begin the transition now.

“There are around 7,000 bodyshops across Canada, and many of them will wait until the last minute,” he says. “Jobbers like us will be under tremendous pressure to handle them all at the same time.”

Get organized Matt Gibson, sales manager of Flatline Spraybooth Specialists Inc. in Markham, Ont., says the first item on the shop’s transition to-do list should be an assessment of its production requirements.

“If you’re a small shop and you do just one job per day, you probably won’t need to make any changes to your spray booth,” he says. www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 17

cover

“But if you do three, four, or five a day you probably will, because you’ll need to speed up the paint-drying process in order to maintain your production levels.”

Gibson says the next item of business is a complete spray booth cleaning and servicing.

“It takes less than one day, costs between $2,500 and $3,000, and will get your spray booth running at its optimum level,” he says. “You’ll have a clean system if you bring in any new equipment.”

Finally, Gibson says, bodyshops should do an audit of their air lines, checking the lines for contamination and changing the filters.

No job too big or too small Makad says that although most bodyshops won’t need to install a brand-new spray booth, those that opt for one can expect to pay a pretty penny.

“A new, top-of-line downdraft spray booth costs between $50,000 and $75,000,” he says.

“Installation will cost another $30,000.”

Because new hand-held blowers will likely use more compressed air, some shops will need to upgrade their air compressors.

“If you have a 10 HP air compressor now and you need, say, 50% more air, you’ll need a new air compressor,” he says.

Before a shop installs a new air compressor, it should perform an audit of its air lines.

“You might want to replace iron air lines with aluminum ones, and get new air filters, too.”

Retrofitting can be relatively inexpensive as well, Greenwood says, depending on the shop’s size and the paint line it’s using.

“Shops that put out three to four cars per booth per day can survive with a set of Venturi blowers,” he says.

The big-name brands come with two or three blowers on a stand and cost between $600 and $1,300. Shops can save money with two less expensive—though probably less durable—blowers and a stand that cost $300-$400.

18 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

It takes less than one day, costs between $2,500 and $3,000, and will get your spray booth running at its optimum level,” he says. “You’ll have a clean system if you bring in any new equipment.”

Matt Gibson, sales manager, Flatline Spraybooth Specialists Inc.

Greenwood says shops that perform five to seven jobs a day or more should consider an overhead or corner blower system.

“We have shops that use the Accele-Cure overhead system,” Greenwood says. “They look just like a ceiling fan and create an envelope of air around the car. They cost between $12,000 and $15,000 installed, although with modifications, they can reach $17,000$18,000.”

Greenwood says the most common corner blower system is made by Jun-Air. “The system consists of a panel of three or four blowers per corner,” he says. “The corner blowers cause air turbulence around the vehicle, rather than an envelope of air.”

Greenwood says corner blowers are more expensive systems and “not necessarily” any faster than overhead fans. Corner blowers cost between $15,000 and $25,000.

Flatline manufactures the Aqua Cure 400 waterborne paint drying system, which Gibson

says is intended for highvolume production shops.

The system consists of four corner-mounted pod towers. Each corner pod has eight adjustable nozzles, each of which generates air velocity of more than 400 feet per minute. Depending on the size of the job, between one and four air nozzles can be used at the same time. The price of the Aqua Cure 400 is $10,000.

Greenwood says any jobber store can help with the installation of new drying equipment.

“Depending on how busy [your jobber] is, however, it may take a couple of months before your fans or blowers can be installed, so it is a good idea to look at retrofitting ASAP,” he says.

Worth the expense Greenwood says there are benefits to both retrofitting a spray booth and converting to waterborne paint.

“Retrofitting maximizes the efficiency of your paint line,” he says. “And when you convert to waterborne paint, the public’s perception of your shop as a ‘green’ business goes a long way.”

In addition, shop productivity can increase, depending on the paint line. Fewer coats of paint mean less time painters have to spend in the booth, which means they can start prepping other vehicles instead of waiting around to apply two or three more coats of paint.

There is no way to get around the fact that the new government regulations will mean a cost—in some cases, a substantial cost—to most bodyshops. Short of closing up shop (which is likely to be the option for some) it would appear as though your best bet is to retrofit as best you can, and above all, work closely with your suppliers and jobbers to ensure that you can get the equipment and the training you need before it is too late, or before a backlog of procrastinating painters overburdens the system. While it may already be too late to call yourself the “early bird” in this regard, there is still plenty of time for you to get the worm.

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Bodyshop Magazine online is Bodyshopbiz.com The Top 10 most-read Headline News items on Bodyshopbiz.com in July were: 1.

2.

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CAA-Quebec Warns Over Possible Car Selling Scams Lord Corporation Launches New Plastic Finishing Adhesive Canadian Low VOC Refinish Deadlines Finalized Dupont Releases Second Quarter 2009 Financial Results Pedal to the Metal: PPG Conference to Focus on Accelerating Performance Obama signs Cash for Clunkers Legislation I-CAR Extends Conference Registration Deadline PPG Reports Second Quarter 2009 Financial Results PPG Helps CertifiedFirst Network Conduct Continuing Education Classes for Insurance Agents 10. CARSTAR Canada Selects Audatex North America, Inc. as its Online Lean Training Provider

Bodyshopbiz.com Just another way that Bodyshop Magazine is the leading information source for the Canadian collision repair industry.

ATTENTION MARKETERS: Bodyshopbiz.com is Growing Visits are up more than 20% and page views are up more than 30% from 2008.

Let us show you how we can make the web work for you.

Contact your representative or e-mail aross@bodyshopbiz.com.

in my estimation

A Hail OF A MESS A hailstorm that lasted less than five minutes resulted in nine months of extra work for local collision repair centres. One facility has processed about 1300 hail-related repairs since the storm in June 2008.

By Cindy Macdonald

20 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

here is no calm after the storm when hail strikes a densely populated urban area.

“For the first 60 days, the owner and I worked long hours just to keep up with the overwhelming volume at the front door,” recalls Cameron Watson of Pickering CARSTAR Collision. “For four weeks, we had insurance appraisers onsite, using the facility as a drive-in estimating site. [The owner] Cam Akleh and I wrote more than 30 estimates a day each, and two insurance representatives

T

were also onsite writing estimates.

“It was an arduous task, no question.”

To cope with the sudden influx of hail damage, Pickering CARSTAR contracted with a local paintless dent repair (PDR) firm and leased an adjacent industrial unit to boost its repair space.

Similarly, the bodyshop at Sheridan Chevrolet Cadillac Inc., a Fix Auto franchise, gave over two bays of its space to a PDR team brought in by Motors Insurance. Sheridan also had appraisers onsite for drive-in estimates.

in my estimation

Photo by Lisa Zambri

“June 16 is etched in my memory,” says Bill Oakman, collision centre manager of Sheridan/Fix Auto Pickering. “I was fortunate that one of my insurance partners was able to set up the PDR team for me.”

The brief but intense storm hit Pickering, Ont., mid-afternoon on June 16th, 2008. It left behind hundreds of damaged vehicles, downed leaves and tree limbs, and enough marble-sized hail to cover the ground with white.

PDR to the rescue The National Alliance of PDR Technicians

defines paintless dent repair as a process for specific process for these claims, get it in writremoving most minor dents, and even some ing,” he advised. major dents, without repainting the vehicle Regarding the division of duties, Keith and without removing the factory finish. This noted, “Your staff will likely handle commuis done by slowly massaging the dent from the nications with clients, such as meeting, greetback of the panel with specialized tools. ing, and delivery. Don’t overtax your staff.”

The procedure is often used to Robbie Derrick of Dent Wizrepair hail damage, because it ard explained that his firm esThe generally provides quicker tablishes a basic contract brief but intense repairs than more tradiwith the shop. Among tional methods. the items it covers are storm hit Pickering, Ont., When faced with a payment, i.e., who colmid-afternoon on June 16th, 2008. hail situation, the collects the cheque, and It left behind hundreds of damaged lision repairer must whether the shop will quickly determine vehicles, downed leaves and tree limbs, process all the PDR the size and scope of repairs through its and enough marble-sized hail the event. Then he books. “The gross profto cover the ground must consider how the it margin is different major insurers will handle from traditional collision with white. the event: will there be only repair,” he added. local staff or a CAT (catastrophe) At Sheridan/Fix Auto Pickerteam? How will the storm claims be coving, PDR was treated as sub-contracted ered under the Direct Repair Programs work. The bodyshop billed the insurer and (DRP) agreement? paid the PDR company. The PDR technicians To capitalize on the opportunity, the performed estimates related to the PDR work, bodyshop will need to quickly initiate an and the bodyshop’s front office staff handled all agreement with a PDR provider, and find other customer functions, such as greeting, extra space to handle the influx of work. scheduling, billing, and delivery. “We would Repairers also have to establish proce- take customers into the shop to show them the dures for scheduling pure PDR losses, claims process,” says Oakman. “They were amazed.” that combine collision repair work and PDR, Prepare for an onslaught and pure collision repair work.

Some of the issues to consider when “We appraised more than 1800 vehicles at teaming up with a PDR technician or service this location, and we’ve probably fixed about are: Who handles customer service functions? 1300 of those,” says Cameron Watson at Who has reporting and billing responsibili- Pickering CARSTAR. “In the first few days, it was not uncomties? Is the PDR technician certified?

According to a panel of hailstorm veter- mon to see eight, 10 or even 12 vehicles lined ans speaking at NACE in 2008, the duties of up for estimates. We were doing estimates in the PDR technician generally include the the parking lot, wherever we could find actual paintless dent repair and recordkeep- shade.”

Some of the first casualties on the books ing. Depending on the agreement, the PDR technician’s duties may also include estimat- were customer vehicles stored outside on Pickering CARSTAR’s lot. Watson says ing, scheduling, R&Is, and supplements.

Speaking at the NACE presentation about eight in-process vehicles were dam“Managing PDR Hail Losses,” Bob Keith of aged.

Local car dealerships faced even heavier CARSTAR cautioned shop owners to check if their DRP agreement has any special lan- damage. Some of the unsold inventory was guage or stipulations for catastrophe situa- repaired, and “hail sales” offering a discount on damaged vehicles were a common event tions concerning space, sublet ratios, etc.

“Following a storm, discuss the situation in Pickering through the summer of 2008.

Nine months later, the hail claims don’t with your insurance partners. If they have a www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 21

in my estimation

Be prepared

Calm after the storm: These photos from Royal Auto Body in Pickering Ontario show the kind of damage that a typical hail storm can cause. Fortunately, having a paintless dent repair procedure in place means this kind of damage can be turned around quickly and efficiently.

always run smoothly. “There were a couple of hiccups,” says Watson. “Some of the insurance company staff have never been through a catastrophe situation, so we still sometimes find ourselves explaining how a $3000 repair is necessary for damage that doesn’t even show up in photographs.”

A crash course in PDR Using paintless dent repair on such a large scale may be new to some bodyshops as well.

Faced with a flood of hail-damaged vehicles, “We had to consider new repair methods, and we didn’t have much experience with paintless dent repair,” says Robert Wagner, manager of Royal Auto Body in Pickering. Royal is a member of Collision Solutions Network.

“We didn’t have the connections to do 22 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

PDR, so lining up people to do it was a priority,” he recalls.

He found that the cost of PDR was generally often not significantly cheaper than conventional repair methods, but that it provided a shorter turnaround time.

The staff at Royal Auto Body handled appraisals, scheduling, and billing, and treated the PDR work as they would any other sublet work.

“The fallout from the storm added a lot of complication to the repair process,” says Wagner. In the early days after the storm, all the usual local sublet providers were also busy, so even replacing a windshield could add five days to the repair cycle, he says.

A hailstorm may bring lineups that rival Tim Hortons on a Saturday morning, but it also interferes with normal collision centre

Pickering CARSTAR’s Cameron Watson advises patience for any shop in the aftermath of a hailstorm. “I don’t know that there’s any one thing I could tell people that will prepare them for this type of situation. The onslaught, for us, was immediate.”

Bill Oakman’s advice is to establish a relationship with your local PDR supplier before this type of catastrophe occurs. “It pays to find someone that’s experienced with hail,” he notes. Sheridan/Fix Auto Pickering partnered with Auto Worx, a PDR firm with six locations across Canada and a mobile catastrophe team.

Oakman says there was some resentment among his employees at first, until they accepted that PDR was the best solution for most of the hail-damaged vehicles.

At Royal Auto Body, Robert Wagner also suggests that shops should develop a rapport with a local PDR technician. “Have a PDR provider lined up. When a storm hits, everyone wants them, and the price becomes exorbitant.”

Wagner also cautions shops to follow good accounting procedures and keep things up to date. “If you assume that the average PDR job costs about $4000, you soon realize that you have to collect payment for all that sublet work, and collect it quick.”

operations, often for months. Bodyshops in Pickering are still repairing hail-damaged vehicles, although the work has slowed enough that the repairs are generally performed offsite now.

There’s no way to prepare for the deluge of work that follows a hailstorm, but shops with efficient procedures should be able to absorb the added workload. Bring in specialized help for the PDR, and, in the words of Bob Keith, “Don’t let a one-time event kill your collision business.”

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RONDEX IS WATERBORNE READY!! New laws mean that the switch to lower VOC paints and coatings is here. We’re here to help make the transition to waterborne finishes as smooth as one of your paint jobs. We know exactly what we’re doing and soon you will, too. So prepare to catch the wave of waterborne finishes. It will be an exciting ride of increased productivity and performance. For more information, please contact one of our Rondex Customer Care Representatives or visit www.rondex.ca.

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equipment feature

Straight g

AND TO THE POINT Bodyshop Magazine Takes a Look at Electronic Measuring Systems

By David Halpert

ver the last five years, a shift has taken place in the way collision repairers assess, diagnose, and repair the vehicles that come into their shops. With the integration of computers, the Internet, and various wireless technologies, computerized measuring systems are becoming more advanced than ever before, and the potential gains for the average bodyshop are worth taking into consideration.

“Now in all fairness, I would not want to question CCD, accuracy compared to any other measuring system. A straight line is a straight line, whether it’s a light or a string or an image from a camera. I wouldn’t want to go down that road and say it’s a hell of a lot more accurate,” cautions John Van Loenen, eastern sales manager for Hofmann Balancing Tech. “What [the imaging measuring system] does do is eliminate a lot of human error, for the obvious reason there’s not a lot of steps that have to be taken to set it up.”

While most of today’s electronic measuring systems are expensive (ranging anywhere from $20,000 to $35,000), these units have the potential to pay for themselves over time when you take into account the increased turnaround of vehicles and time saved overall. “[The] initial setup on an older system (a CCD unit) would be at least 20 minutes before you got a reading, and some of the readings when you do the actual adjustment are not live, so you’d have to do them dead and then redo it again,” continues Van Loenen, “whereas with image aligning, from the time you put the targets and the camera on, within three minutes you will have a full reading. Now all of the adjustments can be done live. It reduces the time factor by almost 10:1.

“The other thing is that the heads on the old CCD were prone to dropping on the ground if they weren’t on properly, which was a huge expense for repairers”—each head can easily cost as much as $1000—“whereas with imaging, you just have four unbreakable targets that go on the wheel.

So as far as maintenance is concerned, there is none and there’s virtually no damage that can occur during operation.”

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The Sonic 360 uses proprietary ultrasound technology that has the ability to measure 12 reference points simultaneously, as opposed to its sister system, the Tru-Point, where measurements have to be taken one at a time.

24 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

Hofmann’s Geoliner 680 Image Wheel Aligner allows collision repairers to go from setup to readings in less than two minutes. This complete measurement system comes with its Premium Pro 32 software package that will make alignments the most productive service in any high-volume shop.

Kansas Jack, a division of Snap-on International specializing in auto body repair systems and accessories, currently has two frame measuring systems on the market: the Sonic 360, which utilizes ultrasound technology to collect measurements and track repairs, and the Tru-Point, which uses a more traditional CCD camera system with LED arrays.

While the Tru-Point is much more comprehensive for upper-body measurement—where traditional upper-body measuring methods can become slightly problematic for diagnosing underhood, truck openings, door openings, or window openings—the Sonic 360 uses proprietary Sonar technology that has the ability to measure 12 points simultaneously, as opposed to the Tru-Point where measurements have to be taken one at a time.

“The Sonic 360 uses ultrasound technology to collect measurements and track repairs. Emitters on the probes are attached to the vehicle at specific points and send ultrasonic signals that are received by high-frequency microphones located in the lightweight extruded aluminum beam,” says Niall Davidson, vice-president of distribution sales for Kansas Jack. “The results are compared to manufacturer specs and any problem areas are identified automatically. This leaves the operator free to concentrate on straightening, not on how to collect measurements.”

time it takes for him to do it.”

Auto Quip Canada Inc., supplier of collision repair products nationwide, is the main distributor of Autorobot’s body measuring and frame equipment. Two of its more popular measuring systems include the Autorobot Calipre and the Autorobot EzCalipre, both of which utilize the same technology, but while the Autorobot Calipre is a complete body measuring system, the EzCalipre is a portable, wireless measuring tool specifically designed for mobile use, a plus for claims adjusters and insurance company inspectors.

While the initial investment in a state-of-the-art electronic measuring system may be considerable, whether it’s a CCD camera, LED arrays, or some other type of imaging technology, it might be worth considering for the opportunities it can offer for improving a shop’s B efficiency, productivity, and competitiveness.

“The results are compared to manufacturer specs and any problem areas are identified automatically. This leaves the operator free to concentrate on straightening, not on how to collect measurements.”

Despite an almost ten-thousand-dollar price difference between the two systems, the resulting savings to a bodyshop or collision repair facility are essentially a three-point profitability blueprint that occurs during the diagnostic process.

The first is discovery. By measuring the car properly, collision repairers are going to ensure they capture everything that’s wrong with the vehicle before they call the insurance company, avoiding the need for unnecessary negotiations down the road should an incorrect measurement take place. The second is productivity. Eliminating the need to check and re-check each measurement saves a lot of time as compared to the traditional tram gauge measuring method. The third area is rework, because a collision repairer does the correct job the first time, so they’re not going to have to do any rework.

“The reality is that if an end-user does not have a collision measuring system for an eight-hour job,” continues Davidson, “he’s going to get paid only four to six hours due to a lack of productivity. However, if he has the measuring equipment, he’s going to get paid for all the www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 25

products

Foose-Inspired Website

Diagnostic Tool Tracer Products has introduced the Tracerline Marksman ulltrasonic diagnostic tool, a highly accurate instrument that converts and amplifies inaudible ultrasonic sound into audible “natural” sound. Now, service technicians can easily hear sounds that signify problems such as air brake leaks, gear and bearing wear, as well as vacuum, EVAP system, exhaust refrigerant, and passenger compartment leaks. The Marksman uses a two-tiered process to ensure accurate diagnosis. First, the receiver unit converts inaudible sound into audible sound using a process known as heterodyning. Then, the receiver’s Sound Signal Technology fine-tunes the audible sound into the natural sound emitted by the defect itself. A 10-bar LED display indicates the intensity of incoming signals from the problem source to ensure error-free diagnosis. Designed for optimal performance, the TP9370 Marksman Master Kit comes with a receiver, full-sized headphones, two anodized probes, and an ultrasonic emitter that allows technicians to test for faulty seals, gaskets, and weather stripping in passenger compartments, trailer bodies, and other unpressurized enclosures. When attached to the receiver, the 12-inch hollow probe accentuates air sounds, while the solid contact probe accentuates sounds of wear or grinding inside gears. Standard nine-volt alkaline batteries are included for both the receiver and the emitter. All components are packed in a sturdy storage case with foam insert.

Tracer Products; www.tracerline.com; 516-333-1254

Body filler application system wins best new product award at NACE 3M’s Dynamic Mixing System has been chosen best new product at Automotive Service & Repair Week (ASRW) 2008. The Dynamic Mixing System was one of more than 20 new products featured at the NACE and CARS events in November.

“3M is honoured to have the Dynamic Mixing System recognized as the best new product of ASRW,” says Kevin Rickelman, marketing supervisor with 3M’s Automotive Aftermarket Division. “We designed this product with body technicians in mind, simplifying the process of mixing and applying body filler and glaze.”

The 3M Dynamic Mixing System is a pneumatic, hand-held applicator gun that uses a nozzle with tornado-like mixing action, to blend filler and glaze with the correct amount of cream hardener and dispense it on demand.

3M Automotive Aftermarket Division; www.3m.com; 1-888-364-3577

26 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

BASF Automotive Refinish Coatings North America has announced that it has enhanced its website, www.basfrefinish. com, with a new section devoted to Chip Foose and the signature line of “Foose Colors” he developed with BASF. The new section is entitled “Color by Foose – Paint by BASF,” and highlights the partnership between the top customizer and BASF. Here are a few of the elements you’ll find at the site: Color by Foose—an interactive preview of the 12 colours offered by BASF for a limited time only. A personal video message from Chip Foose explains why he chose BASF for his paint line.

Winning Spirit—a link to Chip Foose articles published in Winning Spirit, BASF’s Automotive Refinish magazine; includes Image Gallery, a collection of Foose-related images and moments captured at difference automotive events.

You can access the site by visiting www.basfrefinish.com and clicking on the “Colors by Foose – Paint by BASF” banner located on the home page. BASF’s Foose Signature Colors are available in waterborne formulations under the brand Glasurit 90-Line, and in solvent-borne formulations under the brand R-M Diamont.

BASF; www.basf.com; 1-866-485-BASF (2273)

Welding Wire Hobart Brothers has introduced its FabCO Hornet gas-shielded flux-cored welding wire. Designed as a general fabrication welding wire for mild or low-alloy steels, the FabCO wire can be used in all positions with either 100% CO2 or a 75% Ar/25% CO2 shielding gas mixture. To increase welding productivity, the wire features an easily removable slag and low spatter levels. The wire also produces a low amount of welding fumes, similar to most new wires in its class.

Available in .045-in., .052-in., and 1/16-in. diameters, the wire produces a flat bead profile and is suitable for either single- or multi-pass applications. It also meets the optional H8 diffusible hydrogen requirement. Classified under American Welding Society code A5.20 as E71T-1C H8, E71T1M H8, E71T-9C H8 and E71T-9M H8, the FabCO Hornet welding wire features a tensile strength of between 70,000 and 95,000 psi. Typical impact strength is 75 ft-lbs at -20 degrees Fahrenheit when used with a mixed shielding gas.

Hobart Brothers; www.hobartcanada.com; 1-888-489-9353

products

New Alignment Software Hunter Engineering is proud to introduce the 11th edition of its award-winning WinAlign Alignment Software. The new features of WinAlign 11 speed service and simplify the increasingly difficult task of aligning today’s vehicles.

WinAlign 11 provides support for the optional CodeLink steering angle sensor reset device. CodeLink directly connects WinAlign to a vehicle’s OBD-II to recalibrate the steering angle sensor (SAS) to match the final alignment angles of the vehicle, as required by the OEM to complete the alignment. WinAlign 11 automatically alerts the technician if the vehicle being serviced requires SAS reset and includes simple procedures to quickly and easily reset the sensor using the CodeLink device.

The TPMSpecs database takes the frustration out of servicing TPMS wheels by organizing and condensing thousands of OE TPMS reset procedures into an easy-to-understand, techfriendly format. TPMSpecs provides the sensor type, tools needed, service procedures and any special instructions based on the specific vehicle being serviced.

No longer will technicians waste valuable time flipping through the pages of confusing reference manuals or risk a comeback or damage from not knowing the proper procedure.

AutoVIN allows the technician to begin taking measurements faster than ever before. Using an optional scanner, the technician simply scans the VIN bar code on the vehicle to enter the make and model into the WinAlign system. WinAlign then automatically recalls vehicle-specific specs, adjustment procedures and reference materials from its vast vehicle information database for the technician to continue the service.

The WinAlign Video Library is like having an alignment instructor right in the shop by providing instant access to detailed alignment training videos. The Video Library helps technicians quickly solve alignment problems, strengthen competency and confidence, and increase service and profit opportunities.

Hunter Engineering; www.hunter.com; 1-800-448-6848

Audatex launches next-generation business intelligence platform Audatex Insight is a robust, Web-based analytical tool that makes it easier than ever for users to monitor, measure, and manage their automobile insurance claims performance within a customizable visual platform.

Aimed at the automobile claims processing industry, Insight’s accessibility to data and analysis breaks down the barriers seen with traditional business intelligence solutions that require undue IT involvement.

Its powerful visual interface features interactive dashboards, graphs, maps, and tables that enable users to instantly access information across multiple dimensions.

Audatex; www.audatex.com; 1 800.366.4237

Drying and Curing System Tecor, Inc. is now offering the new highly engineered AQUA/ TEC drying and curing system for waterborne paints. The AQUA-TEC’s distinctive design sets it apart from all others in that the double-filtered, fresh heated air is introduced from accelerators strategically placed in the paint booth gables or high on the sidewalls, reducing the possibility of stirring up dust from the floor. With up to 1100 FPM velocities, the system will dry waterborne materials faster and cleaner than any other system available today, and will also enhance the curing of solvent-based paints as well, by increasing the heat transfer efficiency of your existing convection bake booth. The optional deluxe control console further increases the usability of the system by adding a zone control system, variable speed, cycle timer, etc. All components of the AQUA-TEC are of the highest quality to ensure long-lasting performance, and are covered by Tecor’s two-year warranty.

Tecor Inc.; www.tecorbooths.com; 215-957-9112

Orbital Scrubber Dynabrade, Inc. has launched the air-powered Dynorbital Supreme Scrubber. This air tool, when used with shampoo or cleaner, is ideal for cleaning out dirt and stains on a variety of surfaces. The Dynorbital Supreme Scrubber features a 10,000 rpm air motor with a 3/16” random action orbit. This action allows the brush bristles to loosen trapped dirt particles. The tool is ideal for use in detail shops. Use with shampoo or cleaner to power out dirt and stains. The tool is ideal for use on carpets, floor mats, seats, trunk areas, tires, and convertible tops.

The tool includes a brush pad holder, a 3-1/2” diameter short-nap cleaning brush, and a 3-1/2” diameter long-nap cleaning brush. The tool also includes an adjustable speed control.

Dynabrade Inc.; www.dynabrade.com; 1.800.344.1488

www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 27

products

Affordable protection for welders New welding apparel from Hobart Welding Products includes leather and cloth welding jackets, a leather apron, and welding sleeves. Ideal for the garage, shop, or outdoor use, the new items are made from high-quality materials designed to keep sparks, heat, and ultraviolet rays from harming exposed skin.

“Welding injuries happen too often due to improper protection,” states Caleb Krisher, product manager, Hobart Welding Products. “Safety apparel such as fire-retardant sleeves and leather jackets take only a moment to throw on and protect against nasty burns and otherwise needless trips to the emergency room.”

Hobart’s leather apron offers lightweight protection for the chest and thighs. Made from split cowhide, this knee-length apron features neck and waist straps with quick-connect buckles that adjust to a proper fit. One pocket on the chest and three along the bottom provide ample storage.

Also made from INDURA flame-resistant cotton, Hobart’s 18-in. long welding sleeves offer cool, lightweight protection and a wide elastic band at the top of the sleeve for added comfort.

Hobart Welding Products; www.hobartwelders. com; 1-800-626-9420

PDF Spec Sheet Weldcraft now offers downloadable PDFs of spec sheets, replacement parts data, and more at www.weldcraft.com/literature-manuals/. The Literature and Manual Web page can help existing customers quickly find supporting documents for their torch model and easily locate replacement parts. For new customers, Weldcraft offers a downloadable PDF of its full line product catalog, along with spec sheets for its most popular torch models. Each spec sheet provides technical information on the given product, along with prominent features and benefits, and recommended uses.

Other valuable PDF downloads include Owner’s Manuals for select TIG torches and Connection Diagrams that provide illustrations for connecting both air- and water-cooled torches to common power sources.

Weldcraft will update www.weldcraft.com/ literature-manuals regularly as more valuable product information becomes available.

Weldcraft; www.weldcraft.com; 1-800-752-7620

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PUBLISHER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO DETERMINE QUALIFICATION MY COMPANY’S MAIN BUSINESS ACTIVITY AT THIS LOCATION IS: Bodyshops: Independent, Franchise and Chain Operations New Car Dealers Claims Manager/Claims Adjuster Company & Independent Fleet Service/Maintenance Shops (with body repair facilities) Specialized Repairs (Trim, Glass, Upholstery) Wholesalers of Bodyshop Supplies Manufactures, Sales Agents, Distributors Schools ❑ 009 Others Allied to the Field

Automotive Internet Directory Visit these companies directly at their web addresses or check out the growing list of Hot Links at www.autoserviceworld.com.

To find out how your organization can be included in this directory and on the web, contact Brayden J C Ford 416-510-5206

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS & ACCESSORIES

HAND CLEANERS

Goodyear Engineered Products www.goodyearep.com/aftermarket www.goodyearbeltsandhose.com The officially licensed belt of NASCAR. Gatorback, the quiet belt. You can never replace Goodyear quality.

NGK Spark Plugs Canada Limited www.ngksparkplugs.ca The World Leader in Spark Plugs, Oxygen Sensors and Ignition Wire Sets.

Used by 87% of the World’s OE Manufacturers S.B International Inc. www.sbintl.com “We keep engines humming”

EDUCATION AND TRAINING

GOJO Industries, Inc. www.automotive.gojo.com GOJO is a leading manufacturer of skin care products and services for many marketing including automotive and manufacturing. GOJO continues to pursue a commitment of creating well-being through hand hygiene and healthy skin.

LUBRICANTS & ADDITIVES Empack/emzone Automotive Care & Maintenance www.emzone.ca The high performance emzone product line is specially formulated for your detailing and maintenance needs. For maintenance: Lubricants, Brake Cleaners, Degreasers, and Coatings. For detailing: Glass Cleaners, Carpet Foams, Tire Shines and Auto Fresh.

REFRIGERANT ZEX AC Compressors Division of Mister Starter

www.misterstarter.com Remanufactured/New A/C compressors and Turbochargers/Superchargers for complete line of cars and trucks, DOMESTIC & IMPORTS. Custom Rebuilds also available for your needs.

COLLISION REPAIR Masters School of Autobody Management www.masters-school.com Masters offers a number of education programs and implementation follow-up programs designed to take bodyshops to the next level of success.

Duracool Refrigerants Inc. www.duracool.com Nationally Distributed by: Deepfreeze Refrigerants Inc. The Leaders in Hydrocarbon Refrigerant Technology Guaranteed In writing not to harm any Mobile A/C System You can feel the Difference that Quality Makes “Our Formula Never Changes”.

Empack / emzone Refrigerants www.emzone.ca Eco-friendly, non-ozone depleting and system safe. The emzone quality A/C Refrigerant product line includes stop leak, system conditioner, oil charge, UV dye leak detection, and dryer offering colder vent temperatures, improved system efficiency, lower head pressure and greater gas mileage. Ideal for cars, trucks, SUVs and tractors.

CARS COUNCIL www.cars-council.ca Smarter hiring, better personnel assessment, and training accessible 24/7. We are the CARS Council, a not-for-profit organization, delivering tools developed by industry for industry. www.cars-council.ca

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT AIR LIQUIDE CANADA INC. www.airliquide.ca Your one-stop shop for all your industrial gases and welding supplies.

Genius Tools www.geniustools.net Genius Tools provides a complete line of hand tools, as well as power tools, tool storage, and other solutions for the toughest jobs in automotive and industrial markets.

Premium quality at competitive prices.

Rotary Lift www.rotarylift.com World Leader in Lift Productivity

WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTORS & BUYING GROUPS Automont Distributions Inc. www.automont.com Importer & Wholesale Distributor of German, Swedish and Asian Auto Parts.

Bestbuy Distributors Limited

advertiser index AIA Canada

www.aiacanada.com

15

Akzo (Lesonal)

www.lesonal.com

ChemSpec USA Inc

www.chemspecpaint.com

Dupont Performance Coatings

www.cromaxpro.com

Fix Auto

www.fixauto.com

Global Finishing Solutions

www.globalfinishing.com

H&S Autoshot

www.hsautoshot.com

25

Laflamme Air Libre INC

wwwlaflammeairlibre.com

11

NACE

www.NACEexpo.com

Rondex Limited

www.rondex.ca

23

Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes

www.sherwin-automotive.com

31

2 13 5 32 8

7

www.bestbuyautoparts.ca Independent buying group and warehouse distributor that allocates its profits to member shareholders and provides unbeatable value for independent jobbers.

The E.R.I. Group www.theerigroup.com Canada’s Premier Machine Shop Buying Group Kerr Machine Shop Group Inc.

www.kerrmachineshopgroup.com Buying group for machine shops and performance shops.

www.bodyshopbiz.com l August 2009 l Bodyshop 29

from the publisher

Time To Set Sail The journey to the implementation of low-VOC regulations has been long and circuitous, with many stops and more than a little rough weather along the way.

The fact is that there have been quite a few shops that have continued to regard the regulations with doubt, and delayed their entry into the conversion world. So while others have been making good time on their voyage, some have been content to stand onshore and wonder aloud if the sea-change was ever going to come.

Well, they should wonder no more, now that the final registration of the regulations (set at mid-June of 2010 for manufacturing and importation, and December 2010 for the sale of the last container of noncompliant product, with a few specific exemptions) is no longer a matter of speculation.

In conversation with many in the industry, particularly those on the paint supply side, I found that the Ministry of Environment’s foot-dragging was not viewed as very helpful; what was initially announced as a January 2009 deadline got pushed to January 2010 in successive drafts of the regulation, causing the aforementioned doubt to surface.

The scuttlebutt from insiders—or at least those who have access to them—was that there was a great deal of concern within the ministry that too many shops would be left behind in the rush to convert by 2010.

Frankly, I think we would have been able to get everybody, or almost everybody, on board by then—after all, in just one recent two-week period, some 40 shops were converted to waterborne and a new brand—but concerns about shop closings were voiced again and again in industry meetings, so it shouldn’t have come as much of a surprise that the ministry mandarins picked up on those concerns and responded by pushing the date back.

They have a history of this. I remember dealing with the first round of proposed moves to the low-VOC world back in the 1990s. Many hours were spent in meetings with industry stakeholders and governmenthired consultants, going through reams of proposed limits and implementation plans. It was a very hopeful time—and ultimately futile.

While that initiative was judged premature, there is no doubt that the move this time around is probably a little overdue.

After all, the type of coatings, not to mention tools and equipment, being offered for sale in Canada under the new regulations are the product of years of experience and technological evolution in other markets, primarily Europe.

All of which is simply to say that what’s new to you is really tried and true. So you should not fear. There are no monsters over the horizon.

There is, however, much to learn, because the technology is still new to many. There are a tremendous number of advantages to waterborne technology (many of them documented in this magazine over the past year and a half), but there are also some challenges that are handled much easier with the knowledge and experience of your partners in the supply chain. And it requires every shop to be committed to the new technology, not trying to dual-line it till they’re comfortable.

That’s why we should rejoice—just a little, anyway—that we now have the unequivocal clarity of mission that was lacking up until a couple of months ago.

There is much to learn for those about to embark on the waterborne conversion journey, but no one has to go it alone: the routes are well marked and well travelled.

It’s time to push away from the dock.

Andrew Ross aross@bodyshopbiz.com

30 Bodyshop l August 2009 l www.bodyshopbiz.com

Water Works Body shop owners in Canada are switching over to waterborne finishes in droves, but collision centres nationwide also have a premium solution from a name they can trust – AWXŽ from Sherwin-Williams Automotive Finishes.

An innovative waterborne basecoat/clearcoat system, AWX utilizes a proprietary resin system that behaves like the solvent borne systems of today.

So that means minimal training and start-up costs.

To eliminate any anxiety surrounding conversion to waterborne, Sherwin-Williams does a comprehensive facility assessment and eliminates issues from the beginning. And then they stay on job with you, until everything is just right.

We converted to waterborne 12 months ago and Sherwin-Williams provided great support during the AWX install and follow up; we found AWX easier to spray, dries faster and even blends better.

- Pat Schaffner

|

Preferred Collision London Ontario

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So switch to AWX - it’s not just right for the Capto acc accumsan inhibeo vocr. environment - its right for your business.

To do the right thing, call 1-800-798-5872.

AWX provides terrific application, coverage and color and the entire switch to waterborne is seamless and smooth. sherwin-automotive.com

Why be anonymous when you can be visible? fixauto.com

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