Brake Fluid Testing, Bleeding & Flushing
Brake fluid is something that should always be changed when the brakes are relined or when replacing a caliper, wheel cylinder, brake line, hose or master cylinder. But what about other times? Should brake fluid be replaced for preventive maintenance? Most brake experts say yes! DOT 3 and DOT 4 brake fluid contains glycol ethers
The Future Of Climate Control
What Role Will Alternative Refrigerants Play? There has been a lot of discussion lately about the future of automotive refrigerants and their impact on the environment. Ozone depletion is no longer the main concern. Now it’s global warming. Last year was the warmest year on record. Average temperatures all across the globe are on the
Olds Engines: Gone But Not Forgotten
By Larry Carley Times change and vehicle makes and nameplates come and go. The last official Oldsmobile rolled off the assembly line on April 29, 2004, when General Motors pulled the plug to stop the hemorrhage of red ink in their ailing Oldsmobile car division. Though the brand is now history, there are still millions
Talking Shop: Finding and Hiring New Recruits
here is that someone proposing a candidate will have at least a few words about qualifications or credentials. Unlike having to check references of an applicant after the fact (which too many shops often fail to do), the reference or referral comes ahead of the candidate. Most of the time, a position in a small
Brake FLuid Testing: Are You Testing Your Customers’ Brake Fluid?
When was the last time you tested a customer’s brake fluid? Never? Many shops don’t bother to test brake fluid for several reasons. Some don’t think fluid tests are necessary. Others don’t test the fluid because they don’t have anything to test it with. And others say why bother if they’re going to bleed the
A/C Update: Global Warming…Cooling Customers
There has been a lot of discussion lately about the future of automotive refrigerants and their impact on the environment. Ozone depletion is no longer the main concern. Now it’s global warming. Last year was the warmest year on record. Average temperatures all across the globe are on the rise as are ocean temperatures. Arctic
Viewpoint, AAMCO, Cottman, Monro, Procare: With Size Comes Responsibility
In the past month, we have seen some historic events in the world of undercar service. The reunification of Cottman and AAMCO and the acquisition of ProCare by Monro Muffler have changed the landscape of the undercar service industry. Some people say that the Cottman and AAMCO deal was a shocker. When Rich Silva (Cottman)
Leak Detection: Becoming Your Shop’s Leak Detective
When a customer’s A/C system isn’t cooling well and the refrigerant charge is low, you know the system is leaking. The question is where? Finding refrigerant leaks on today’s vehicles can be a challenge. For one thing, many of the A/C system parts are buried and difficult to reach. Also, most systems today hold much
PBR Expands Aftermarket Brake Component Presence in North America
In a move that will strengthen their position in the North American Aftermarket, PBR International is pleased to announce a new distribution arrangement with Worldwide Parts and Accessories Corporation, otherwise known as WORLDPAC.
Four Seasons Redesigns Line of Blower Motors
Four Seasons, an automotive aftermarket temperature control parts supplier, has redesigned its line of blower motors for easier installation and longer use, in addition to making specific changes to meet the needs of two singular models.