Counterman, September 2013

● Make A Date With AAPEX ● Have You Ever Been Suspended? ● On Twitter @CountermanMag

September 2013

PLUS, we review: • Ball Joints

• Fuel Pumps

• A/C Compressors

• Struts

• Fuel Additives

The ABCs (and BAROs) of Engine Management Systems

The ABCs (and BAROs) of Engine Management Systems

counterman.com/ASAP for reader service

Tech Features By Larry Carley

Fuel pumps need to be replaced sooner or later. ................36Ball joints are critical to steering, suspension.......................38

The ABCs (and BAROs) of engine management systems. ..........................................................................42

A/C compressors take a pounding. ....................................44

Mechanic Connection By Gary Goms

Strutting their stuff.................................................................46Fuel additives can prevent, remedy many fuel delivery system issues. ..........................................................48

COUNTERMAN (ISSN 0739-3695) (September 2013 Volume 31, Number 9): Copyright 2013 Babcox Media, Inc. All RightsReserved: 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 toCOUNTERMAN, 3550 Embassy Parkway, Akron, OH 44333-8318. A limited number of complimentary subscriptions are availableto individuals who meet the qualification requirements. Call (330) 670-1234, Ext. 275, to speak to a subscription services representativeor FAX us at (330) 670-5335. Paid Subscriptions are available for non-qualified subscribers at the following rates: U.S.: $69. Samplesand back issues - Domestic - $10, International/via air mail - $15. Canada: $89 for one year, $149 for two years. Canadian ratesinclude 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 Expressaccepted.

features

2 September 2013 | Counterman

SeptemberVolume 31, No. 9

INSIDE

42

46 33

departmentsNASCAR Performance ..................................................................................8This monthly special section takes you behind the scenes of thisfast-growing sport.

MarketPlace ......................................................................................10,11Every month, MarketPlace showcases the newest automotive prod-uct and service innovations your customers are asking about!

Aftermarket News ......................................................................................12Aftermarket News presents news, views and analysis of currenttrends and events in aftermarket distribution.

Classifieds ........................................................................................................78

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVES

HOME OFFICE:3550 Embassy ParkwayAkron, OH 44333-8318330-670-1234FAX 330-670-0874

Bill Babcox [email protected], ext. 217

PUBLISHER:S. Scott [email protected], ext. 229

SALES REPRESENTATIVES:Dean Martin [email protected], ext. 225

Jim [email protected], ext. 280

Roberto [email protected], ext. 233

Glenn [email protected], ext. 212

Sean [email protected], ext. 206

John [email protected]

CLASSIFIED SALES:Tom [email protected], ext. 224


P U B L I S H E RS. Scott Shriber330-670-1234, ext. [email protected]

E D I T O R I A LMark Phillips, Editor330-670-1234, Ext. [email protected]

Amy Antenora, Editor, aftermarketNewsManaging Editor, Counterman330-670-1234, Ext. [email protected]

Larry Carley, Technical [email protected]

C O N T R I B U T I N G E D I T O R SMandy Aguilar, ColumnistGary Goms, Commercial AccountsGerald Wheelus, ColumnistAllen Markowitz, ColumnistAllan Gerber, ColumnistJerry King, Cartoonist

G R A P H I C D E S I G NLisa DiPaolo, Graphic Designer330-670-1234 , Ext. [email protected]

A D V E R T I S I N G S E R V I C E STina PurnellAdvertising Services Manager330-670-1234 , Ext. [email protected]

C I R C U L A T I O N S E R V I C E SBrad Mitchell, Director of eMedia & Audience Development330-670-1234 , Ext. [email protected]

Pat Robinson, Circulation Manager330-670-1234, Ext. [email protected]

Ellen Mays, Circulation Specialist330-670-1234, Ext. [email protected]

C O R P O R A T EBill Babcox, PresidentGreg Cira, Vice President, Chief FinancialOfficerJeff Stankard, Vice PresidentBeth Scheetz, Controller

Edward S. Babcox (1885-1970)Founder

Tom B. Babcox (1919-1995)Chairman

Founded 1983. Copyright 2013Babcox Media, Inc., All Rights Reserved

COUNTERMAN (ISSN-0739-3695) ispublished monthly by Babcox Media, 3550Embassy Pkwy., Akron, OH 44333. Periodicalpostage paid at Akron, OH and additionalmailing offices.

Member, BPA International

Editor’s Ink By Mark Phillips ................................................................................6Make a date with AAPEX.

Counter-tech By Mandy Aguilar......................................................................58Tabs, not apps, to sell more parts.

Keeping It Simple By Gerald Wheelus ......................................................70You have no time for that?

From The Publisher By S. Scott Shriber ....................................................76Why didn’t I think of that?

Allen & Allan By Allen Markowitz and Allan Gerber ....................................80Have you ever been suspended?

columns

If you’re like me, a year without AAPEXin Las Vegas just wouldn’t feel right.Why? Because there’s no other timeyou’ll see so many of our industry coun-

terparts in the same city, at the same event,with business on the brain. Honestly, it’salmost like a family reunion or holiday get-together, minus the arguing. (OK, maybe alittle arguing.)

If you’ve never attended AAPEX, makethis year your first. You’ll be in good com-pany. Of the approximately 39,600 buyersin attendance, nearly 7,000 wholesalers andabout 5,000 parts retailers will be there.That’s about 30 percent of attendees, whichcombined, comprise the largest segment ofattendees. You need to experience whythose 12,000 people travel to Las Vegasevery year. In addition to the chance tomeet thousands of people and do businessface-to-face with the leaders in the indus-try, there are numerous educational forumsdesigned to help aftermarket professionals

earn more business and marketshare.AAPEX runs Nov. 5-7 at the Sands

Expo Center. I highly recommendgoing to www.AAPEXShow.comto find out more.

Go Back To School

The University of the After-market at Northwood

University recentlycelebrated a mile-

stone — thelargest-everLeadership2.0 class. InAugust, 40

EDITOR’S INKBy Mark Phillips

Make A Date With AAPEXprofessionals gathered at the school’s cam-pus in Midland, Mich., for the first week ofa two-week residential aftermarket-focusededucational program.

The next session takes place in April2014, at Northwood’s West Palm Beach,Fla., location. But don’t let the sunny skiesof Florida be the reason you sign up forthis exciting program (though it’s a niceperk.) I was fortunate in 2008 and 2009 totake part in the course. In addition to beinga great way to earn credits for AutomotiveAftermarket Professional (AAP) or MasterAutomotive Aftermarket Professional(MAAP) designations, you’ll make friendsfor life — really. Whenever I hear someonesay “make friends for life,” I almost imme-diately don’t believe it. It sounds corny,right? It’s not. I can’t tell you how manytimes I’ve run into my Leadership 2.0friends on planes, in other cities or tele-phoned or emailed them or they’ve donethe same. I know their kids’ names, theirfavorite foods and what they like to read.Learn more about Leadership 2.0 by goingto http://www.northwood.edu/aftermarket/

P.A.R.T.S.

Thirteen years ago, Counterman magazinebegan surveying repair shops and techni-cians annually to determine their buyinghabits. We wanted to dig down into thewhere, how and why they source automo-tive parts and products. The result hasbeen P.A.R.T.S., or the Professional Auto-motive Repair Technician Survey. It accom-panies this month’s magazine. Take sometime to read it and familiarize yourselfwith your customers’ habits. CM

■ ■ ■

For more information: www.counterman.com

In addition tothe chance tomeet thousandsof people anddo businessface-to-facewith the leadersin the industry,there arenumerouseducationalforums designedto helpaftermarketprofessionalsearn morebusiness and

Track Talk

Working in the automotivefield is challenging and can bea thankless job at times.

While you may feel unno-ticed or underappreciated,MAHLE Clevite applauds thehard work, dedication andcommitment you’re making tothe engine building industry.

“MAHLE Clevite wants tosalute the hard work and com-mitment of the thousands ofengine technicians around thecountry,” said Ted Hughes,marketing manager forMAHLE Clevite. “Sponsoringthe Champion Technician con-test is just one of many wayswe want to roll out the red car-pet for those who support usday in and day out.”

The MAHLE CleviteChampion Technician contestrecognizes the passion, talentand forward-thinking mindsetof engine technicians and spe-cialists by rewarding oneexpert who exemplifies a“champion” in every aspect.The winner will receive a VIP

trip to the 2013 NASCARSprint Cup Series Champion’sWeek in Las Vegas.

This once-in-a-lifetimeNASCAR experience willinclude coach-class airfare fortwo to Las Vegas; a three-nighthotel stay; a special meet-and-greet with a NASCAR personal-ity; access to NASCAR VictoryLap, NASCAR After The Lap,the NASCAR Sprint Cup SeriesAwards Ceremony and theNMPA Myers Brothers AwardsLuncheon.

Winner of the 2012MAHLE Clevite ChampionTechnician contest, DerekMartel, was selected based onhis short essay submissionthat detailed his passion,experience and career accom-plishments as a talentedengine specialist.

The Cumberland, R.I.,native and current instructor atthe New England Institute ofTechnology says it was anhonor to receive the memo-rable trip to Las Vegas.

“The trip wasabsolutely amaz-ing,” recalled Martel.“It’s something mywife and I will forev-er remember.”

Earn yourunforgettable experi-ence by entering thecontest today.

To enter, nomi-nees must have aminimum of fiveyears of experienceworking withengines in a profes-sional capacity.Engine techniciansworking as customengine rebuilders; inan automotivemachine or repairshop; as productionengine rebuilders orrace engine builders;or as instructors inan engine programare encouraged toenter.

Don’t miss out on this exclusive experience. Visit championtechnician.mahleclevite.com nowthrough Oct. 28, 2013, tonominate yourself or a col-league today.

Derek Martel, a talented engine

specialist and instructor at the

New England Institute of

Technology, earned the 2012

MAHLE Clevite Champion

Technician title – and a memo-

rable trip to Las Vegas for

NASCAR Champion’s Week.

Best in the Business?You Could Win a Trip toNASCAR Champion’s Week

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

MAHLE Motorsports’ PowerPakSmaller Ring Packs

MAHLE Motorsports has built a reputation for bring-ing racers leading-edge design and technology andcontinues to do so with the latest in innovations andracing advancements. More than a decade ago,MAHLE’s PowerPak piston assemblies were intro-duced with ring sets sized as much as 24 percentsmaller in both height and width than conventionalpiston rings. A shorter, narrower ring is more con-formable, allowing it to maintain increased and moreconsistent contact with the ring groove floor andcylinder wall, resulting in greatly improved combus-tion seal and oil control. Additionally, there is a no-table reduction in frictional drag and weight.


WIZARDS Introduces Mystic Clay

WIZARDS Products is setting anew standard in detailing clay andsurface restoration with the intro-duction of Mystic Clay (Part No.10023). Mystic Clay quickly and

easily removes tree sap, in-dustrial fallout, rail or

brake dust, and othercontaminants that makeyour vehicle’s surface

feel rough. It is also excellent for removing freshoverspray without harsh solvents or rubbing com-pound - saving you hours of time and the cost ofprofessional buffing. Mystic Clay is safe for allpaint/clears, glass, fiberglass, metal or any hard sur-face. Use Mystic Clay in conjunction with WIZARDShighly regarded Mist-N-Shine Professional Detailer(Part No. 01214) to deliver the best gloss and ex-tremely smooth finish without scratching. MysticClay is proudly made in the USA and is available forimmediate sale in a two-bar (120 gram) package.

Ideal Offers IDEAL-TRIDON BrandNon-Perforated HoseClamps

Ideal Clamp ProductsInc., designer and man-ufacturer of IDEAL-TRI-DON brand worm gear,hose and specialtyclamps announced therelaunch of non-perforated hose clamps to the U.S.market. IDEAL-TRIDON brand non-perforated hoseclamps are available for immediate shipment in 9mm and 12 mm band widths with a wide choice ofclamping ranges from 8 mm to 200 mm. The materi-al options for these innovative clamps range fromW2-W5, so they fit a wide array of applications andcan be configured to almost any corrosion resistancerequirements. Plus, all IDEAL-TRIDON brand non-perforated clamps meet or exceed DIN 3017 stan-dards and perform better than traditional wormdrive clamps for certain applications. For more in-formation, refer to the new IDEAL-TRIDON productcatalog.

MARKETPLACE › visit www.counterman.com/ASAP for reader service

Pfadt Race Engineering Headers For Camaros

Pfadt is now manufacturing racing headers for 2010and newer V8 Chevrolet Camaros. These headers fea-ture a Tri-Y design, where primary tubes are mergedtogether in pairs before they enter a common collec-tor. The design teamused GM CAD datato build a set of vir-tual headers on thecomputer before go-ing into actual pro-duction. By verifyingthe design in thecomputer, the teamwas able to take fulladvantage of allavailable space while still keeping the installationprocedure simple. All Pfadt headers are made fromT-304 16-gauge brushed stainless steel for good looksand maximum durability. They are designed to workwith or without cats and will work with the stockmid-pipe and most aftermarket cat back systems.

counterman.com 11

ContiTech IntroducesWear-Resistant MultipleV-ribbed Belt For QuietOperation

ContiTech’s new wear-resis-tant multiple V-ribbed beltputs an end to problemstypically associated withcold starts, dampness andpulley misalignment. The

CONTI UNIPOWER TOUGH GRIP multiple V-ribbed belt with textile surface developed by theContiTech Power Transmission Group greatly mini-mizes noise buildup when accessories like the air-conditioning system, power-steering pump orgenerators are in operation. The belt’s special featureis that the pulley side consists of a fabric reinforce-ment and is highly resistant to wear. The quiet drivebelt features high wear resistance that is required forstarter-generator applications.

Rebuild It Right With PlastiKoteRebuilder’s Cast Finish

Rebuilding a car can be challenging, so itis important to have the right parts andproducts for the best results. PlastiKoteRebuilder’s Cast Finish is the choice ofrebuilders who want “The Perfect Fin-ish” the first time they do the job. With afast-drying formulation that retains col-or up to 300 degrees Fahrenheit and re-sists oil, brake fluid and gasoline,PlastiKote Rebuilder’s Cast Finish inAluminum (No. 282) can be used on al-ternators, transmission housings andwater pumps, and Cast Gray (No. 285) isperfect for brake master cylinders, en-gine blocks, idler arms and brackets andmany more cast-iron parts. In addition,the 360-degree valve on the aerosol canmakes it easier to achieve even coveragewhen painting since the user can move the canaround at any angle.

Versatile New Battery Analyzer from CTEK

The Battery Analyzer from CTEK is the perfect test-ing solution for technicians as well as weekend me-chanics. From cars to lawnmowers to snowmobiles,the Battery Analyzer can quickly test and diagnoseall types of 12V lead-acid batteries including Wet,Maintenance Free, Ca/Ca, Gel and AGM. With theCTEK Battery Analyzer you can quickly get to thesource of battery problems in any vehicle. Connect-ing and testing is easy, with no need to disconnect orremove the battery from the vehicle prior to testing.Simply connect the battery clamps to the chargingposts on the battery, select the battery type and pressthe “test” button. The Battery Analyzer displays aneasy-to-understand battery diagnosis and suggests anext course of action to remedy the issue, or if thebattery needs to be replaced.

Standard Motor Products Announces ‘Race to Champion’s Week’ Promotion

SMP has announced its “Race to Champion’s Week”promotion, running now through Oct. 31. All visitorsto the TechSmart, Standard and Intermotor brandFacebook pages can enter to win an all-expenses-paidtrip for two to the NASCAR Champions Week, Dec.4-7 in Las Vegas. One winner will be chosen for thegrand prize, which includes a four-day, three-nighthotel stay, airfare to and from the event and admis-sion to a variety of events, including the MyersBrothers awards luncheon, the VIP viewing area ofVictory Lap, the NASCAR After the Lap event, theVIP brunch/meet and greet with a NASCAR person-ality, the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series awards ceremo-ny and more. Official rules are available on eachFacebook page. Enter now at: facebook.com/TechSmart-Parts; facebook.com/Intermotor; and facebook.com/StandardBrandParts

MARKETPLACE › visit www.counterman.com/ASAP for reader service


STAUNTON, Va. – Federated mem-bers and suppliers provided an ear-ly Christmas present to the Toys forTots program with a donation of$135,000, from money pledged atthe Federated’s annual Toys for Totsauction held during the group’s an-nual awards dinner.

“Our members and manufactur-ing partners have really embracedthe Federated partnership with Toysfor Tots and we want to thank themfor their tremendous generosity dur-ing our annual auction,” said MikeSchultz of Federated Auto Parts.“Our auction is just the first step in

what we expect to be another greatyear of collecting toys and dona-tions for Toys for Tots. Last year,many of our members implementeddonation programs at their storesand we anticipate very strong par-ticipation this November and De-cember.”

Several Federated Auto Parts 400Sprint Cup experiences were auc-tioned to benefit Toys for Tots, in-cluding the opportunity to wave thegreen flag; make the “start your en-gines” call; ride shotgun in the pacecar; and serve as an honorary pitcrew member for NASCAR legend

Kenny Schrader. Other auctionitems included a “Get Dirty withKenny” driving experience, an auto-graphed Schrader racing suit andhelmet, and an original print fromfamed NASCAR artist Sam Bass.Federated CEO Rusty Bishop servedas auctioneer and was helped by as-sistant auctioneer Schrader.

In 2013, participating FederatedAuto Parts stores will again accepttoy donations at their locations.Contributions also can be made atwww.federatedautoparts.com/ToysforTots.aspx that links directly to theToys for Tots website. Donors canuse their credit card securely tomake a monetary donation or printout a form and mail it in with acheck made out to Toys for Tots.

AFTERMARKET NEWS

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Federated Raises $135,000 For Toysfor Tots At Annual Awards Dinner

counterman.com 13

MONROE, Mich. – Tenneco has an-nounced the launch of the MonroeBrakes “Brake Check” promotionavailable through Oct. 31. The“Brake Check” promotion offersmotorists a chance to earn up to a$30 Visa prepaid card for qualify-ing Monroe Brakes purchases.

This latest Monroe Brakes promo-tion is available for qualifying pur-chases of premium MonroeCeramics ceramic-formula andMonroe Dynamics semi-metallicbrake pads. To qualify for the $30Visa prepaid card, consumers mustpurchase two sets (front and rear) ofMonroe Ceramics or Monroe Dy-namics premium brake pads andhave the products installed at a par-ticipating repair shop. To earn a $15Visa prepaid card, consumers mustpurchase one set of Monroe Ceram-ics or Monroe Dynamics brake padsand have the products installed at aparticipating repair shop.

To qualify for a $10 Visa prepaid

card*, consumers must purchasetwo sets of Monroe Ceramics orMonroe Dynamics premium brakepads. To earn a $5 Visa prepaidcard*, consumers must purchaseone set of Monroe Ceramics orMonroe Dynamics brake pads.

Additional Brake Check promo-tion details, including a list of qual-ifying products and downloadablepromotion submission forms, areavailable at

www.MonroeBrakes.com. To earnthe Visa card rewards, all submis-sion forms and supporting docu-mentation must be postmarked nolater than Dec. 2, 2013.

Tenneco backs Monroe Ceramicsand Monroe Dynamics brake padswith its risk-free “Safe & SoundGuarantee,” a 90-day money-backoffer. For details about the MonroeBrakes guarantee, go to www.monroebrakes.com/support/safe-sound-guarantee.

*The Brake Check $10 and $5 offersdo not require participating automo-tive service shop installation.

Brake Check Promotion From Monroe BrakesHelps Motorists Save On Repairs

O’Reilly Automotive Reports Second-

Quarter 2013 ResultsSPRINGFIELD, Mo. – O’Reilly Automotive announced record revenuesand earnings for its second quarter ended June 30, 2013.

Sales for the second quarter ended June 30, 2013, increased $152 mil-lion, or 10 percent, to $1.71 billion from $1.56 billion for the same periodone year ago. Gross profit for the second quarter increased to $872 mil-lion (or 50.8 percent of sales) from $780 million (or 49.9 percent of sales)for the same period one year ago, representing an increase of 12 percent.

Net income for the second quarter ended June 30, 2013, increased $31million, or 21 percent, to $177 million (or 10.3 percent of sales) from $146million (or 9.3 percent of sales) for the same period one year ago. Dilutedearnings per common share for the second quarter increased 37 percentto $1.58 on 112 million shares versus $1.15 for the same period one yearago on 127 million shares.

BWD Automotive Releases388 New Part NumbersNEW YORK – Standard Motor Prod-ucts (SMP) has announced the addi-tion of 388 new part numbers to itsBWD engine management line, cov-ering domestic and import vehicles.

More than 150 switches have beenadded, including hazard warning,combination, cruise control, multi-function, power seat memory andmore. The part number expansionoffers coverage for an additional 70million additional VIO. Other ex-panded categories include TPMSsensors, exhaust gas temperaturesensors, EGR control solenoids,airbag clocksprings, camshaft sen-sors, crankshaft sensors, ABS speedsensors, power door lock actuatorsand ignition coils.

All new applications are listed inthe eCatalog found at www.BWDbrand.com and in electronic catalog providers.


AFTERMARKET NEWS

Dorman Products Releases August New ProductAnnouncement With More Than 260 PartsCOLMAR, Pa. — Dorman Products released an August New Product Announcement featuring 268 new parts, 43 of which are exclusive for-merly “Dealer Only” parts.

Highlights of these new product opportunities include:● A complete line of direct-fit replacement steel wheels. These wheels

are easy to install, fully compatible with original wheel covers and TPMSsensors and adhere to DOT standards. Dorman’s program offers coveragefor more than 18 million vehicles on the road today, including Nissan Al-timas from 2012-’07 and Ford Fiestas and Festivas from 2011-’04. (P/Ns939-102 & 939-115)

● A programmable keyless entry remote that requires no special tools,and syncs to vehicle in less than five minutes by the consumer. This newremote fits a variety of Buick, Cadillac, Chevrolet, Pontiac and Saturnmodels from 2010-’07. (P/N 13716)

● An intake manifold cover (also known as a PCV valve) fitting a vari-ety of BMW applications from 2003-’96. (P/N 911-899)

● A popular bed mount hardware kit fitting Ford trucks from 2012-’09.(P/N 924-311)

● A direct-replacement transmission cooler for Dodge Rams from 2003-’02 that saves time and makes installation easy. (P/N 604-005)

● A plastic-backed mirror glass replacement for Jeep Wranglers (2012-11) that enables service technicians to replace just the broken mirror glass– not then entire mirror assembly. (P/N 56297 left & 56298)

Many of these parts (and more) are also featured this month in Dor-man’s new Service Dealer Guide, Volume II. A copy of this new guide canbe found by visiting http://dormanproducts.com/Pages/sdg/index.aspx.

For additional information on Dorman’s latest product introductionsvisit www.DormanProducts.com, call 800-523-2492, or sign up to receivenew product alerts from Dorman’s Be-The-First-To-Know Program atwww.DormanProducts.com/Signup.

ACDelco Introduces BrakePipe Kits For GM Trucks, SUVsGRAND BLANC, Mich. – In an effort to make certain hydraulicbrake pipe repairs easier, ACDelco has released 66 partnumbers for kits that can be usedto service 1999-2007 GM full-sizepickup trucks and SUVs.

The kits – available through au-thorized ACDelco distributors – aredesigned for use in situations whenthe entire brake pipe assemblymust be replaced due to corrosionor wear. They are pre-formed andpre-flared for more efficient andcost-effective installation, and theirnylon coating provides better corro-sion protection.

Makes and models affected in-clude the Chevrolet Silverado andGMC Sierra full-size pickups(1999-2007), Chevrolet Avalanche,Tahoe and Suburban; GMC Yukon;and Cadillac Escalade (1999-2006).

To find an ACDelco parts retail-er, visit acdelco.com or call 1-800-ACDelco. ACDelco is also onFacebook at www.facebook.com/acdelco.

What vehicle does this picturerepresent? If you think you know theanswer, go to www.counterman.comand click “Guess the Car” on the nav bar.Submit your answer and contactinformation. A winner will be randomlyselected by the Counterman staff fromall correct answers. The deadline toenter is Oct. 1. The winner’s name willappear in the next issue. Stay tuned!

Yukon (GMC)

Congrats to Sam Demey,Hummelstown, Pa.

Last Month’s Correct Answer:This Month’s Puzzle

Guess the Car / Win $100!

#68

#69

“I’m going for the gold!”

BOUCHERVILLE, Quebec – Uni-Select Inc. generatedsales of $476.2 million in the second quarter of 2013,similar to the comparable period of 2012, an overallorganic growth of 1.2 percent. Sales of the U.S. opera-tions totaled $339.5 million in thesecond quarter, with an organicsales growth of 2.7 percent.

Uni-Select said this positive or-ganic growth is the result of sales’ programs and over-all better execution combined with improved servicelevel in the operations permitted by a more stable ERPsystem. “We are pleased that sales organically grew inthe U.S. We are confident that our recent performancein the U.S., together with our new Action Plan willlead to improved results over the next quarters,” saidRichard Roy, president and CEO.

In conjunction with announcing its second-quarterfinancial results, Uni-Select has announced two newappointments to the leadership of its U.S. automotivebusiness.

Brent Windom has been named president and chiefoperating officer (COO) for Uni-Select’s U.S. automo-tive business. Windom has been with Uni-Select fornine years. With nearly 30 years in the automotive af-

termarket, Windom served as vicepresident of marketing and mer-chandising for MAWDI from 1994to 2004, when it was sold to Uni-Se-

lect. In announcing his appointment, Uni-Select said itis confident that Windom’s experience and abilitieswill bring added value to the U.S. automotive partsdistribution activities.

Uni-Select’s board of directors also announcedthe appointment of a new director to the board, ef-fective July 31. Dennis Welvaert was appointed inplace of Joseph Felicelli, who resigned in the sec-ond quarter. Welvaert, who was acting presidentand COO for the U.S. automotive business untilJuly 31, also will serve as chairman of Uni-SelectUSA Inc.

counterman.com 17

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AFTERMARKET NEWS

Uni-Select Reports Second Quarter Results; AnnouncesNew Leadership For U.S. Automotive Business

SMYRNA, Tenn. – Beck/Arnleyannounced that 629 new part num-bers were added to its line of pre-mium-quality, genuine foreignnameplate products during thefirst six months of 2013.

The new part numbers fall with-in the following Beck/Arnleyproduct modules:

● Brake & Chassis, 436● Clutch & Driveline, 8● Cooling, 31● Electrical, 4● Engine Management, 52● Engine Parts & Filtration, 96● OE Fluids, 2Highlights include two new OE-

quality hydraulic fluids for Euro-pean applications. The mineraloil-based fluid, MB7 HF (No. 252-

0027), and the fully synthetic oil-based fluid, FS11 HF (No. 252-0028), were added in June.Beck/Arnley’s product team alsohas been expanding coverage in thepopular category of mounts. Thecompany now offers 543 enginemounts covering 6,155 applicationsand 179 transmission mounts cov-ering 2,116 applications.

The new part numbers and theirapplications can be downloadedin either a PDF or Excel format byvisiting Beck/Arnley’s website atwww.beckarnley.com/beckarnleynum-bers.html. The new numbers andapplications also are available onBeck/Arnley’s online catalog atwww.beckcatalog.com.


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AFTERMARKET NEWS

Over the Counter By Jerry King

Beck/Arnley Adds 629 New Foreign Nameplate

Part Numbers In First Half Of 2013

New Brands Added To ShowMeTheParts.comDOWNERS GROVE, Ill. – Vertical Development has announced that 31Incorporated, BCA, DriveRite, Intermotor, Sun Core Industries and X-TraSeal are the latest brands to be added to ShowMeTheParts.com.

With these most recent additions, ShowMeTheParts.com now includes 231brands covering more than 3,200 part types, and millions of applications.


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AFTERMARKET NEWS

Bosch Adds Brake Shoes To

Complete Its Line Of Braking

Products

BROADVIEW, Ill. – Bosch hasadded brake shoes to its line ofbraking products for the af-termarket. With full linecoverage of service brakesand parking brakes for do-mestic, Asian and Europeanapplications, Bosch brakeshoes along with other Boschbrake products, provide customers witha total braking package, the company states.

Features of Bosch brake shoes include: ● Full line coverage of domestic, Asian and Euro-

pean applications● Matching OE-style design to guarantee proper fit● 100 percent asbestos-free friction formulations

that ensure extended wear, consistent braking per-formance and long life

The Original Gabriel ‘Legendary

Sales Event’ Runs Until Oct. 31

TROY, Mich. – Gabriel (Ride Control LLC) has an-nounced the launch of its national “Legendary SalesEvent,” offering consumers a mail-in rebate of up to$125 when they purchase four qualifying Gabriel-branded ride control products through Oct. 31.

Consumers are eligible for a 20 percent mail-in re-bate when they purchase a combination of any fourqualifying Gabriel ReadyMount, Ultra, MaxControl orStrut Mount products between Sept. 1 and Oct. 31,2013, up to a maximum rebate value of $125.

Every day, thousands of motorists may not even re-alize they are riding on shocks and struts that havesignificantly deteriorated.

In emergency maneuvers, these worn shocks canlengthen braking distances and affect handling andstability.

To help consumers spot the signs of worn shocksand struts, Gabriel has developed a new video, “TopTen Warning Signs of Worn Shocks and Struts.” It isavailable to view at the Answerman Video section ofGabriel’s website or on YouTube at TheOriginal-Gabriel channel.

Gabriel has created “Legendary Fall Sales Event”kits for participating shops that includes a poster andrebate pad. To receive a kit, call 1-800-251-5932. De-tails of the sales event, qualifying products, rules andrebate forms are available at www.Gabriel.com.

SUPERIOR, Wis. — AMSOIL introduces new OE Syn-thetic Automatic Transmission Fluid, available in Mul-ti-Vehicle and Fuel-Efficient formulations. AMSOILOE Synthetic ATF provides all the benefits of a qualitysynthetic at an attractive price point, the companysays. It provides outstanding protection in normal andsevere service, resisting wear on vital parts and ex-tending transmission life, according to the company.

AMSOIL OE Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluidis thermally stable and guards against the harmful ef-fects of thermal breakdown. It helps components stayclean by resisting heat-related evaporation and viscosi-ty loss. It provides reliable cold-weather performanceand remains fluid in sub-zero temperatures for fast, re-liable shifts during cold starts. Its excellent low-temper-ature fluidity also maximizes fuel efficiency.

Formulated with friction modifiers, AMSOIL OESynthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid promotesshudder-free starts and smooth clutch engagement.


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AFTERMARKET NEWS

AMSOIL Introduces New OE Synthetic Automatic Transmission Fluid

Seal conditioners help prevent seals and gasketsfrom drying out and cracking, reducing the risk offluid leaks.

AMSOIL OE Synthetic Automatic Transmission Flu-id is suitable for a wide variety of applications andprovides excellent protection for the longer service in-tervals now recommended by vehicle manufacturers.

For more information about AMSOIL synthetic mo-tor oils contact your nearest AMSOIL distributor, orcall AMSOIL at (715) 392-7101 or 1-800-777-8491.

MOOG Steering And Suspension Cover-age Expanded To Millions Of AdditionalLate-Model VehiclesSOUTHFIELD, Mich. – The MOOG Steering and Sus-pension line has been expanded to include nearly 40innovative new control arm assemblies, stabilizer barlink kits and other components for millions of late-model foreign nameplate and domestic vehicles.Known as the automotive industry’s “ProblemSolver” brand, MOOG products are available throughleading replacement parts distributors across NorthAmerica.

The new MOOG Problem Solver parts include pre-mium right and left rear upper control arm assemblies(CK620667 and CK620668, respectively) for more than1.3 million Ford Explorer (2002-2005), Lincoln Aviator(2003-2005) and Mercury Mountaineer (2002-2005)models; and a rear upper ball joint (K500208) for morethan 3.3 million Ford Taurus (1996-2005), Lincoln Con-tinental (1995-2002) and Mercury Sable (1996-2005)passenger cars.

Also new to the MOOG line are right (CK620313)and left (CK620314) front lower control arm assem-blies for 2002-2005 Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Stratusand Mitsubishi Eclipse models. In addition, Federal-Mogul has introduced 15 additional Problem Solverstabilizer link kits as well as 16 new R-Series controlarm assemblies for a variety of popular Audi, Chevro-let, Ford, Hyundai, Kia, Land Rover, Mini Cooper andPorsche models.

To learn more about MOOG steering and suspen-sion components, visit the technician-focusedwww.moogproblemsolver.com website or contactyour MOOG supplier. In addition to the Moogprob-lemsolver.com website, the latest MOOG product ap-plication listings are available throughFederal-Mogul’s www.FMe-cat.com electronic catalog.

JACKSONVILLE, Fla. – The PartsHouse (TPH) recently moved, ac-quired and opened additional loca-tions. TPH is now present in WestPalm Beach, Fla., Dothan, Ala., and ata new address in St. Augustine, Fla.

The West Palm Beach facilityboasts a large inventory and spa-cious warehouse, TPH says. It is fa-vorably located in order toimprove service to the majority ofTPH’s new and existing PalmBeach County customers. TPH alsoopened its first facility in Alabama.The Dothan, Ala., location willservice customers previously pro-vided for by TPH’s Tallahassee op-

eration. Increased inventory avail-ability and service should allowTPH to make a positive impact onthe automotive community, thecompany says.

TPH also announced the acquisi-tion of a former Bumper to Bumperstore in St. Augustine, Fla. (previ-ously owned by Butler Auto Partsof Macon).

David Honig, president andCEO, said, “I’m excited to see TheParts House grow and evolve tomeet the needs of our customers.These new locations will providetop-quality parts and service to thelocal communities.”


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The Parts House ExpandsWith Three New Locations

MAHLE Clevite Announces Third AnnualChampion Technician Contest

ANN ARBOR, Mich. — MAHLE Clevite Inc. recently announced thethird annual MAHLE Clevite Champion Technician Contest, a contest de-signed to spotlight talented and forward-thinking engine technicians andspecialists nationwide. By answering a series of five questions, onegrand-prize winner will be determined and receive a VIP trip to the 2013NASCAR Sprint Cup Series Champion’s Week in Las Vegas, NV.

“Since its inception in 2011, the MAHLE Clevite Champion TechnicianContest has enabled us to recognize the persistence and tireless dedica-tion of today’s engine technicians, nationwide,” said Ted Hughes, manag-er – marketing for MAHLE Clevite.

Participants can either submit an entry about themselves, or on behalfof the nominee. Contest registration forms can be downloaded atwww.mahleclevite.com/championtechnician and submitted via [email protected] or by faxing the completed application to(248) 596-8899 starting at 12:01 a.m. ET on Aug. 12, 2013, until 11:59 p.m.ET on Oct. 28, 2013.

The grand prize winner will receive a trip to Las Vegas Dec. 4 to Dec. 7,2013, including coach airfare for two, a three-night hotel stay, a specialmeet-and-greet with a NASCAR personality, MAHLE Clevite VIP dinnerfor two at a five-star Las Vegas restaurant, two tickets to NASCAR Victo-ry Lap and NASCAR After The Lap, as well as tickets to the NASCARSprint Cup Series Awards and the NMPA Myers Brothers Awards Lunch-eon, a feature on MAHLE’s website and social media sites, Las Vegas andOfficially Licensed NASCAR merchandise, and a commemorativeplaque. The prize package is valued at approximately $4,000.

See Official Rules for details. No purchase necessary to enter or win. For more information on the MAHLE Clevite Champion Technician

contest and the rules, visit www.mahleclevite.com/championtechnician.

STAUNTON, Va. – Federatedmember Motown Automotive hasestablished the Amie J. LitzingerM.D. Class of 2013 Endowed Schol-arship Fund at the University ofToledo. The scholarship is namedin memory of the daughter of TomLitzinger, the company’s longtimedirector of sales and marketing.Amie Litzinger passed away onJan. 1 of this year at the age of 27due to complications from a genet-ic heart disease known as hyper-trophic cardiomyopathy.

“The University of Toledo Col-lege of Medicine and Life SciencesClass of 2013 lost a respected col-league and a trusted friend whenAmie Litzinger passed away onNew Year’s Day 2013,” said Dr. Jef-

frey Gold, chancellor and executivevice president for health affairs anddean of the college of medicine andlife sciences at the University ofToledo. “In honor of Amie’s memo-ry and her values of being a wise,

caring and giving person, the AmieJ. Litzinger M.D. Class of 2013 En-dowed Scholarship Fund has beencreated.” Contributions to the fund may be made by visitinghttps://give2ut.utoledo.edu/litzinger.asp.


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AFTERMARKET NEWS

Federated Member Motown Automotive AnnouncesAmie Litzinger Endowed Scholarship Fund

NXT Capital Provides $20 Million Senior Secured Financing To Recapitalize 1-800-Radiator & A/C Franchise

CHICAGO – Independent com-mercial finance company NXTCapital has provided $20 million insenior secured financing to recapi-talize 1-800-Radiator & A/C. NXTwas the sole lead arranger, solebookrunner and administrativeagent for this transaction.

1-800-Radiator & A/C is a lead-ing North American distributor of

aftermarket automotive heatingand cooling parts. Founded in 1982and based in Benicia, Calif., 1-800-Radiator & A/C has more than 200franchised locations serving everymajor market in the U.S. and Cana-da. The company recently startedoffering fuel delivery products andplans to expand into additionalpart categories in the near future.

EMPORIA, Kan. – Hopkins Manu-facturing Corp. has acquired Mal-lory Industries Inc., a leadingNorth American manufacturer ofautomotive, household and indus-trial products.

Founded in 1891, Mallory is aleading Canadian provider of win-ter snow tools and the NorthAmerican leader in automotivewindow squeegees.

Headquartered in Emporia,Kan., Hopkins is a leading manu-facturer and marketer of quality,innovative and specialized towingproducts and functional acces-sories for the automotive andrecreational vehicle aftermarkets.Hopkins markets its products un-

der a number of well-recognizedbrand names, including: Sub-ZeroSnow & Ice Tools, Carrand, AutoSpa and Pacific Coast VehicleCleaning Products, Hopkins Tow-ing Solutions Trailer Wiring &Brake Control Products, Flo-ToolFluid Handling Products, Brake-Buddy RV tow brakes, Go GearMobile Solutions, nVISION VehicleSafety Products, Vortex High Per-formance Mud Guards and JuiceBooster Cables.

Hopkins says the combination ofthe Mallory snow tools with Hop-kins’ SubZero brand of ice andsnow tools represents the mostcomprehensive assortment avail-able in North America today.


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Hopkins Acquires Mallory

U.S. Auto Parts Network Reports Second-Quarter 2013 ResultsCARSON, Calif. – U.S. Auto Parts Network has reported net sales forthe second quarter ended June 29, 2013, of $67.9 million, comparedwith net sales of $80.7 million for the second quarter ended June 30,2012, a decrease of 15.9 percent.

Second-quarter 2013 net loss was $9.6 million or 29 cents per share,compared with second quarter 2012 net loss of $1.7 million or 6 centsper share.

“We believe in the strategies that we have implemented to return toprofitable growth and increase customer traffic, and expect thesestrategies to overcome the challenges of the past year,” said ShaneEvangelist.

Wagner ThermoQuiet First Ceramic Full Line Brand OfBrake Pads To Achieve Low-Copper CertificationSOUTHFIELD, Mich. — WagnerThermoQuiet Ceramic NXT brakepads featuring Wagner OE21 for-mulations are the first full line ofreplacement ceramic pads toachieve low-copper certification.Approval was provided by NSFInternational, the independentregistrar overseeing manufacturercompliance with copper legisla-tion. The official industry “Leaf-Mark,” indicating compliance

with 2021 legislative require-ments, will now appear on Wagn-er ThermoQuiet Ceramic NXTboxes. Federal-Mogul has devel-oped OE21 low-copper formula-tions specifically for the WagnerThermoQuiet aftermarket productline. To learn more about the pro-prietary OE21 low-copper frictionformulations and Wagner Ther-moQuiet Ceramic NXT brakepads, visit www.WagnerBrake.com.

CALGARY, Alberta – Fleet Brake, aleading heavy-duty parts distributorin Canada, presented Veyance Tech-nologies Inc. – manufacturer ofGoodyear Engineered Products –with the 2013 Manufacturer of theYear Award at its annual StampedeTrade Show & BBQ in Calgary, Al-berta, on July 8.

The award recognizes VeyanceTechnologies as a superior supplierand partner to Fleet Brake’s growingbusiness. Fleet Brake’s leadershipteam and branch managers selectedVeyance for the award because ofthe company’s high-quality prod-ucts, dedicated and knowledgeablesales representatives, extensivetraining resources and marketingsupport.

Veyance has supplied Fleet Brakewith its line of Goodyear Engi-neered Products heavy-duty parts –including belts, hose, hydraulics,

tensioners and air springs – for morethan 10 years and recently helpedthe company optimize its inventorythrough its fleet survey program.

“Veyance Technologies has devel-oped a valuable partnership withour team, and we’re happy to recog-nize them at our first-ever vendor

awards,” said Fleet Brake Vice Presi-dent Tim Douglas. “Strong supplierrelationships are very important aswe continue to grow our business,and we know that the Veyance teamand parts will be there to support usevery step of the way.”

“We’re greatly honored to be rec-ognized by Fleet Brake as a valuedpartner,” said Guy Enta, nationalsales manager at Veyance Technolo-gies, Canada. “Fleet Brake is a won-derful company to work with, andwe look forward to continuing tohelp drive its business.”


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Veyance Technologies, Manufacturer Of GoodyearEngineered Products, Recognized By Fleet Brake

Advance Auto PartsReports Second-Quarter Results

ROANOKE, Va. – Advance AutoParts has announced its financialresults for the second quarter end-ed July 13, 2013. Second-quarterearnings per diluted share (EPS)were $1.59, an 18.7 percent increaseversus the second quarter last yearand includes a 1 cent impact result-ing from the integration expensesfor BWP Distributors Inc. (BWP).

“Our sales grew 6.1 percent andoperating income increased 15.1percent in the second quarter. Weare pleased with our profit im-provement despite our comparablestore sales being essentially flat,”said Darren Jackson, CEO. “Thepositive comparable sales growthat the start of the quarter was offsetby weaker demand in the balanceof the quarter including salesshortfalls in key seasonal cate-gories. While the macroeconomicenvironment continued to impactour customers, we continue to beencouraged by the strong long-term fundamentals of our industryand remain focused on improvingour sales performance as we con-tinue to improve our profitability.”

NEW YORK – TruckPro LLC, a dis-tributor of heavy-duty truck andtrailer parts and repair services,has purchased CCI Corp. from Illi-nois Tool Works Inc. (ITW). Truck-Pro is owned by New York-basedprivate equity firm Harvest Part-ners. Terms of the transaction werenot disclosed.

TruckPro is one of the largest in-dependent distributors of heavy-duty aftermarket truck parts andaccessories in the U.S. The compa-ny distributes a full range of main-tenance and repair products forheavy-duty vehicles of substantial-ly all makes and models. The com-pany sells its products to a diverse,growing base of customers in nu-merous end-markets, includingsmall, regional and national truck-ing companies, private fleets,

waste services companies, con-struction companies, municipali-ties and independent repair shops.

CCI is a leading network of com-mercial vehicle parts and servicelocations, with 100 retail stores,service shops and distribution cen-ter locations in the U.S. and Cana-da. CCI’s product offering includesfull drivetrain, power take-off, sus-pension, brakes, hydraulics and re-lated products, as well as repairand rebuilding services.

The acquisition substantially in-creases the scale and scope ofTruckPro’s operations. The newlycombined company has 165 loca-tions, a truly national footprint, asignificant Canadian presence anda strengthened product and serviceoffering in the gearing and drive-train categories.

“The addition of CCI to Truck-Pro’s existing business positionsTruckPro as a leading provider ofheavy-duty truck and trailer prod-ucts and advanced repair servicesin North America,” said Steve Rior-dan, TruckPro’s chairman andCEO. “CCI has a rich history in thegear and drivetrain segments,which are an excellent complementto the broad, heavy-duty productofferings of TruckPro. Also, Truck-Pro and CCI share the same cultureof providing world-class customerservice, respecting our core suppli-er partners and treating our associ-ates like family.”


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TruckPro Buys CCI From Illinois Tool Works

Advance Auto Parts OpensIts 4,000th Location

MONTGOMERY, N.Y. – AdvanceAuto Parts Inc. opened its 4,000thstore in August. The newest Ad-vance store is located in Mont-gomery, N.Y.

Since 1995, Advance has addedmore than 3,000 stores to its opera-tions through new store openingsand strategic acquisitions. Thisnew store is located in the North-east, a key geographic growth areafor Advance and part of the com-pany’s strategy to continue ex-panding its footprint.

“As we celebrate our 4,000thstore opening, I would like tothank Advance’s more than 54,000team members for their hard workand contributions to our success,”said Darren Jackson, CEO. “Overthe past 81 years, we have grownfrom three stores in Virginia to anational chain, serving millions ofcustomers in 39 states, Puerto Ricoand the Virgin Islands.”

As part of the grand opening cer-emony in honor of the 4,000thstore, $4,000 will be donated to theJuvenile Diabetes Research Foundation.

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DENVER, Colo. – Engine & Per-formance Warehouse (EPWI) re-cently named its 2012 Vendor OfThe Year and Representative OfThe Year at an awards dinner heldduring EPWI’s annual summerconference Aug. 8 in Vail, Colo.

Federal-Mogul was named theEPWI 2012 Vendor of the Year.Daniel DiTommaso, director ofbranded sales; Brent Fletcher, re-gional sales manager; and DanMolde, regional sales manager; ac-cepted the award for Federal-Mogul, which is EPWI’s largestengine parts supplier. The annualVendor of the Year award is pre-sented to the supplier or manufac-turer based on performance scoresduring the prior year in seven cate-gories. Categories include distribu-tion/sales policies, pricing policies,inventory, returns, labor claims, of-fice support and shipping/packag-ing. Past recipients of this awardinclude S.A. Gear, Total Seal, Pio-neer, B&P Rods, COMP Cams,Cylinder Head Center, Clevite En-gine Parts, Dura-Bond Bearing Co.,Damper Doctor, Melling EngineParts, Joe Gibbs Racing, HowardEnterprises, SB International andHastings Piston Rings.

Engine & Performance Ware-house named the late Jerry Nunezof Innovative Marketing Servicesas the EPWI 2012 Representative ofthe Year. Nunez, founder of Inno-vative Marketing Services, is theonly repeat winner for this award.Nunez passed away in November.His wife, Lynne Trimble, nowheads IMS and accepted this awardduring the Thursday night dinner.The Rep of the Year is selected an-nually, on a rotating basis by re-gion, using combined votes basedon performance scores during theprior year in three categories: salessupport, distribution philosophies,and timely and accurate follow-through.

Engine & Performance Ware-

house is a full-service warehousedistributor specializing in enginekits and parts, high-performanceparts, related components and shopsupplies. Founded in 1972, EPWIserves customers from warehouses

in Denver, Phoenix, Albuquerque,Oklahoma City, Dallas, San Anto-nio, Houston, Anaheim, Oakland,Portland (Ore.), Tacoma and An-chorage. EPWI is a member of theEngine Pro distributor network.

AFTERMARKET NEWS

EPWI Presents 2012 Vendor And Rep Of The Year Awards

Engine &PerformanceWarehouse namedthe late JerryNunez of InnovativeMarketing Servicesas the EPWI 2012Representative ofthe Year. His wife,Lynne Trimble, nowheads IMS andaccepted thisaward.

My DENSO Rewards Program Now

Available On Web-Enabled Mobile Devices

LONG BEACH, Calif. – My DENSO Rewards, a sales incentive pro-gram for warehouse distributors, jobbers and professional techni-cians who sell and install DENSO cabin air filters and wiper blades,now has mobile enhanced functionality making the program eveneasier to participate in and benefit from.

“The mobile functionality is a huge benefit to our customers whocan now access the program from just about any device with Internetaccess,” said John Doran, senior manager, marketing and productmanagement group. “Most of the features available online, are nowavailable on the go!”

Using a Web-enabled mobile device, customers simply access theInternet using the mobile browser and visit the rewards programwebsite at www.MyDENSOrewards.com to monitor their point bal-ance, view program rules and information, redeem snap codes andupdate personal profiles. Claims also can be entered, however, it’srecommended that customers use their desktop computers for fasterprocessing time.

Announced earlier this year by DENSO Products and ServicesAmericas Inc., the My DENSO Rewards program runs through Nov.30 for DENSO warehouse distributors, jobbers and technicians in theUnited States and Canada. Participants earn rewards points, re-deemable for more than 2,500 items for customers in the UnitedStates and more than 600 items in Canada, when they sell or installFirst Time Fit Cabin Air Filters or Wiper Blades.


DUBLIN, Calif. – Epicor SoftwareCorp. has unveiled version 6 ofEpicor Vista for the AutomotiveAftermarket, introducing a newWeb-based market and category in-telligence services solution that en-ables automotive aftermarketdistributors to create location-spe-cific inventory models based on ac-tual parts demand by vehicle,brand and other criteria. The solu-tion also offers an array of newdata visualization applets designedfor use on distributor sales repre-sentatives’ mobile devices.

Epicor Vista is designed to helpdistributors create highly cus-tomized market basket assortmentsby vehicle, across categories andbrands, and specific to each store lo-cation. The solution’s advanced an-

alytics identify buying patterns andemerging trends by combiningtransactional information – includ-ing store sales and regional rank-ings by part – with eCatalog fitmentdata available through the EpicorPartExpert replacement parts data-base. This data also is filteredthrough Polk’s Vehicle in Opera-tions (VIO) records and Vista re-placement rate information to createfact-based stocking recommenda-tions across each part category.

“Vista 6 delivers advanced, after-market-specific analytics that candramatically enhance inventory effi-ciency and sales performance at theDC, store and installer levels,” saidSteve Bieszczat, senior vice presi-dent, automotive and marketing, re-tail distribution solutions for Epicor.

“This solution helps empower theentire distribution channel to stepbeyond traditional category man-agement by providing unprecedent-ed customer insight, including theindividual vehicle and parts installeras well as the anticipated repair de-mand by part type and brand.

AFTERMARKET NEWS

Epicor Vista For The Aftermarket Brings Powerful New IntelligenceService And Inventory Modeling Tools to Users

WIX Filters Names Steve Ellis As Canadian

Business Development Manager

GASTONIA, N.C. — WIX Filters, a member of the Affinia Group familyof brands, has named Steve Ellis as Canadian business developmentmanager. Ellis manages an 11-person team of national sales representa-tives responsible for expanding WIX’s market position in 13 provincesand territories in Canada.

“Steve is a valuable addition to the WIX sales team in Canada,” said JeffBlocher, vice president of sales for WIX Filters, a global manufacturer of fil-tration products. “He brings 35 years of sales and retail experience to theposition, both at the customer level and in the automotive aftermarket in-dustry, and will ensure WIX’s continued growth in the Canadian market.”

A native of Quebec, Ellis was most recently national sales manager forUCI International, one of America’s largest and most diversified compa-nies servicing the vehicle replacement parts and car care market. He wasresponsible for sales of several UCI businesses, including ASC, Airtex,Champ Filtration and Wells Vehicle Electronics.

Ellis also held sales positions for more than 20 years at Blue Streak Hy-grade Motor Products, a subsidiary of Standard Motor Products Inc. and aleading automotive aftermarket supplier of engine management productsfor import and domestic vehicles. Ellis began his career with Goodyear TireInc., where he managed multiple store locations in Toronto.

“My main priority is to expand filter sales with wholesale distributorsacross Canada, and that includes an emphasis on growing our heavyduty business,” said Ellis, who is based in Toronto. “I like to remind ourcustomers that WIX has deep roots in heavy duty filtration.

ACDelco Adds Four Part

Numbers To Professional

AGM Battery Lineup

GRAND BLANC, Mich. – ACDelcohas released four new Professionalabsorbed glass mat (AGM) batterypart numbers designed for vehiclesthat demand greater power, vibra-tion control, longer life expectancyand maintenance-free operation,such as police cars, taxis and ambu-lances. AGM batteries also are de-signed to support vehicles equippedwith start-stop vehicle technology.

Three of the part numbers –34AGM, 65AGM and 78AGM – arecurrent BCI group sizes. Part num-ber LN1AGM is designed to oper-ate equipment on the 2014Chevrolet Spark EV (not the Li-ionbattery that stores its propulsionenergy). All four part numbers areavailable for order now.

ACDelco states that its Profes-sional AGM batteries leverage thecompany’s century of trusted bat-tery technology expertise, and car-ry a 36-month free replacementwarranty. Features include:

● Electrolyte is held permanentlyin the glass mat separator insteadof free flowing within each cell,which makes the battery 100 per-cent leak-proof and spill-proof

● Significantly reduces the loss ofactive mass attached to the grid bymaintaining pressure on the plates,which results in a better battery lifeexpectancy


By Larry Carley, technical editorTECH FEATURE

How long should a fuelpump last? The carmak-ers tell us their originalequipment pumps should

last at least 150,000 miles or more.Some pumps last as long as thecar itself but most have to bereplaced sooner or later for a vari-ety of reasons.

Sometimes, a perfectly good fuelpump that still has many years ofservice left in it will stop workingbecause of an electrical fault.Maybe the fuel pump relay failed,or the fuse blew. Maybe the wiringharness that connects the fuelpump at the fuel tank worked itselfloose or became corroded or short-ed out. Maybe the anti-theft sys-

Rust or debris inside the fueltank can kill a good pump. Rust isa common problem with older,high-mileage vehicles that havesteel fuel tanks. Plastic tanks innewer vehicles don’t rust, but aftereight to 10 years of service, someplastics start to break down andmay shed flakes of material thatcan clog or damage the pump.

All fuel pumps have a filter sockor screen on the pickup tube toprevent larger pieces of debris in-side the tank from being drawninto the pump. But the screen canbecome clogged and starve thepump for fuel, causing a loss offuel pressure or damage to thepump.

Fuel pumps use the fuel thatpasses through the pump for bothcooling and lubrication. Conse-quently, if the pump runs dry ei-ther because of a plugged filtersock or because the motorist ranout of gas, the pump can self-de-struct rather quickly.

Fuel pump failures that resultfrom normal wear over time arejust a consequence of driving. Re-placing the pump should fix theproblem and restore your cus-tomer’s mobility. The fuel pumpinlet screen should also be re-placed at the same time, and anew fuel filter installed. Manylate-model vehicles with return-less EFI systems do not have anin-line fuel filter, but have a “life-time” filter as part of the in-tankfuel pump assembly. If your cus-tomer is replacing the entire fuelpump module assembly, a new fil-ter will be part of the package. Butif a customer is only replacing thepump, he may be in for troubledown the road if the old filter isnot replaced.

All fuel lines and hoses that are

Fuel Pumps Need ToBe Replaced SoonerOr Later

tem, PCM or other control moduleis preventing the pump from run-ning for some reason (wrong keycode, module miscommunicationor a module failure). In situationslike these, your customer doesn’tneed a new fuel pump. They needto diagnose and repair the electri-cal fault that is preventing thepump from running.

Sometimes a fuel pump will stopworking because it has literallyworn itself out (worn brushes orbushings). An aging pump may be-come noticeably louder as it nearsthe end of the road. This is moretypical of roller vane fuel pumpsthan turbine style pumps (whichare typically much quieter).

part of the fuel system should beinspected and replaced as need-ed. If the vehicle is more than 10years old, new rubber fuel hosesare recommended.

The old fuel pump, fuel filterand inside of the fuel tank shouldalso be inspected when changing apump to make sure there are nocontaminants lurking in the systemthat might cause a repeat failure. Ifan old steel tank is rusty inside, itneeds to be replaced. Same for aplastic tank that is starting to breakdown and shed.

Finally, make sure the replace-ment pump is the correct one forthe application. For example, GMFlex Fuel vehicles may require adifferent pump than those for anon-flex fuel application. Onpickup trucks with dual tanks,you need to know if the pump isa transfer pump or the mainpump.

Some replacement pumps maynot look exactly the same as theoriginal because some fuel pumpsuppliers have replaced older de-signs with newer, more efficientturbine pumps to consolidateSKUs. The appearance doesn’tmatter as long as the replacementpump meets the vehicle manu-facturers pressure and flow specifications. CM

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● Sometimes, the problem isn’tthe fuel pump.

● Some replacement pumpsmay not look exactly the sameas the original.

● The filter sock or screen on thepickup tube may becomeclogged.

In Brief



Ball Joints Critical To Steering, Suspension

Ball joints are chassis com-ponents that eventuallywear out and have to bereplaced. But the ball

joints on many late-model vehiclesare now part of a unitized controlarm assembly rather than a sepa-rate component. The car makes dothis to save weight and cost (forthem, not your customers!). So onmany of these applications, yourcustomer has to buy a completecontrol arm assembly rather thanan individual ball joint if theirvehicle needs a new ball joint.

On some of these unitized con-trol arm applications, it is possibleto replace the joint separately eventhough the control arm was notdesigned that way. Aftermarketchassis parts suppliers are veryclever at coming up with ways tosave your customers money, so ifit’s possible to press a ball jointout of a unitized control arm theyprobably have a replacement jointthat will fit. But if it is not possibleto replace the joint, your customerwill need a whole new control armassembly.

On applications where the balljoints can be replaced, installationmay require unbolting the joint,pressing out the joint or drillingout rivets that hold the old joint inplace. The degree of difficulty canvary greatly from one applicationto the next, so some DIYers maynot know what they’re gettinginto until they start to tear theircar apart.

A classic symptom of worn balljoints is suspension noise whenhitting bumps (clunks and rattles),and inner shoulder wear on thefront tires due to camber misalign-ment. Ball joint wear can bechecked by raising the wheels off the ground and using a smallpry bar with light pressure only to check for excessive movementin the joint or looseness. Some ball joints have built-in wear indi-cators that indicate wear when the wheels are on the ground. Either way, it’s time to replace the joint if wear exceeds factoryspecifications.

On cars and trucks that haveshort long arm (SLA) suspensions,there are four ball joints: one up-per and one lower on each side.The load bearing joint (which maybe the upper or lower dependingon where the spring is located) isthe one that experiences the mostwear.

On cars with MacPherson strutsuspensions, there are no upperball joints — unless it has a “wish-bone” strut suspension with up-per control arms, in which casethere will be upper ball joints.

If one ball joint is worn out,

chances are the ball joint on theopposite side is also bad or near-ing the end of its service life.Many technicians recommend re-placing both joints at the sametime (both lowers, both uppers orall four).

Another item that should bechecked when ball joints are re-placed is the stud hole in the steer-ing knuckle — especially if theball joint stud has broken or isloose. An out-of-round hole canallow flexing that leads to metalfatigue and stud breakage. Thenew ball joint stud should fitsnugly in the hole without rock-ing, and only the threads of thestud should extend above thehole.

On front-wheel drive suspen-sions that use a pinch boltarrangement to lock the ball studin the knuckle, the pinch bolts areoften torque-to-yield and shouldnot be reused but replaced withnew bolts.

Other steering and suspensionparts that may be worn out and inneed of replacement include tierod ends, control arm bushings,idler arms, steering rack bellowsand rack mounts. These partsshould also be inspected and re-placed as needed when the balljoints are replaced.

Finally, wheel alignment shouldbe checked and adjusted to speci-fications as needed following theinstallation of new ball joints orunitized control arm assembles. Ifthe wheels are not aligned, tirewear, steering and handling mayall be affected. CM

● Many ball joints are part of unitized control arm assemblies.

● It may be possible to replacethe ball joint in a unitized assembly.

● If one ball joint is worn out,chances are the ball joint onthe opposite side also is bador will soon be.

In Brief



The ABCs (and BAROs) Of Engine Management Systems

The Engine Management Sys-tem includes the PowertrainControl Module (PCM) andall of the engine’s various

sensors. Looking up enginemanagement replacement parts fora customer’s vehicle usuallyrequires the year, make and modelof the vehicle, the engine size (orengine VIN code), the transmissiontype (manual or automatic), and insome cases the OEM part number orvehicle VIN number to correctlyidentify the part.

Engine management systems areprogrammed for specific ve-hicle applications, and some-times even the sensors for thesame year/make/model mayvary depending on the engineor transmission used, thestate where the vehicle is reg-istered or the emission stan-dards to which the vehicle iscertified. California vehicles(and Northeast states that fol-low California emission stan-dards) often have differentengine management compo-nents than federally certifiedvehicles.

Understanding Engine Manage-ment Systems also means having aworking knowledge of the alpha-bet soup of acronyms that are usedto identify many of the commonsensors. Here are a few you shouldknow:BARO — barometric pressure

sensorCKP — crankshaft position sensorCMP — camshaft position sensorECM — engine control module

(same as PCM or ECU)ECT — engine coolant temperature

sensorECU — electronic control unit

(same as PCM or ECM)HO2S — heated oxygen sensorIAC — idle air controlIAT — intake air temperature

sensorISC — idle speed controlKS — knock sensorMAF — mass airflow sensorMAP — manifold absolute

pressure sensorO2S — oxygen sensorPCM — powertrain control

module (same as ECM or ECU)

TPS — throttle position sensorVAF — vane airflow sensorVSS — vehicle speed sensor

Most replacement sensors are ba-sically plug and play. The old sen-sor is replaced with the new one,and the vehicle is ready to roll.However, any fault codes that werestored in the engine computershould be cleared with a scan toolfollowing the installation of thenew sensor. Some types of faultcodes can may prevent the enginecomputer from using certain dataor inhibit certain control functions.Consequently, if the codes are notcleared, the engine managementsystem may not function normally.

If a PCM is being replaced, thePCM must be programmed for thespecific vehicle it will be installedin. Some suppliers of reman PCMswill do this when the PCM is sold,but you have to provide them withthe application information so theycan load the correct software intothe computer. In other instances,the computer comes without anycalibration and the technician has

to do the programming us-ing a J2534 pass-thru tool orscan tool.

On older GM and Fordcomputers (1995 and pre-OBD II), the programming ison a calibration PROM (Pro-gram Read Only Memory)chip, which can be swappedfrom the old PCM or replacedwith a new one. On most 1996and newer vehicles with OBDII, the PCM is flash program-mable so no chip swapping isrequired. CM

● Engine Management Systemsinvolve numerous sensorswith numerous purposes.

● California vehicles (and someNortheast states) can have dif-ferent engine managementcomponents than federallycertified vehicles.

● Most replacement sensors areplug and play.

In Brief

If an A/C system is found tocontain sludge or black gunk, itmeans everything in the system iscontaminated and must either becleaned or replaced. “BlackDeath” occurs when moisture en-ters the system, reacts with the re-frigerant and oil to form acids andsludge. The resulting black gunkcan clog the system or damage thecompressor.

Some components such ashoses and the evaporator can besafely cleaned using an approvedA/C flushing chemical. Singletube serpentine-style condenserscan be flushed but not parallelflow condensers.

Additional parts that should bereplaced following a compressorfailure include:

● Condenser (unless the original



A/C Compressors Take A Pounding

The A/C compressor is apump that compresses andcirculates refrigerant withinthe A/C system. Some

have pistons inside while othershave rotating vanes on an eccentricor a pair of metal scrolls or spiralsaround an eccentric. Many late-model vehicles have “variable dis-placement” compressors thatchange the piston stroke to increaseor decrease the volume of refriger-ant flowing through the system.Some of these run continuouslyinstead of cycling on and off likeconventional A/C compressors.

With operating pressures up toseveral hundred pounds persquare inch and operating temper-atures of several hundred degrees,all types of compressors really takea pounding. To survive in thiskind of operating environment, thecompressor needs plenty of lubri-cation and the correct compressoroil. The system must also be free ofacids, contaminants and sludge.

Over time, loss of refrigerant,loss of lubricant, lubricant break-down, system contamination,and/or loss of cooling efficiency(plugged condenser or an inopera-tive cooling fan) can lead to com-pressor failure.

A catastrophic compressor fail-ure is bad news because flakes ofmetal can be spewed out of thecompressor into the inlet and out-let hoses and condenser. If the sys-tem is not thoroughly cleanedand/or the condenser replaced,the debris may clog the orificetube causing a loss of cooling, or itmay contaminate the new com-pressor causing it to fail.

is a serpentine style that can beflushed).

● Orifice tube● Accumulator or receiver drier

In addition, your customer willalso need the type of compressorlubricant specified by the compres-sor manufacturer, and R134a re-frigerant to recharge the A/Csystem.

Newer vehicles (1994 & up) thatare factory-equipped with R-134arefrigerant require various types ofPAG (polyalkaline glycol) oil.There are several different viscosi-ties of PAG oil ranging from 46 to150, so make sure your customergets the correct type for his com-pressor. Using the wrong type ofPAG oil can cause premature com-pressor wear and failure.

If an older vehicle is being retro-fitted from R-12 to R-134a, POE(polyester) oil or the specified PAGoil must be used instead of mineraloil. Mineral oil should only beused in older R-12 systems (al-though some new compressors areshipped with a small amount ofmineral oil inside to prevent a drystart).

Replacing an A/C compressorrequires thoroughly evacuating theA/C system with a high vacuumpump to remove all traces of airand moisture after the compressorhas been installed. If this is notdone, air can displace refrigerantpreventing the system from cool-ing normally. Air contaminationwill also make the compressornoisy.

The drive belt that turns thecompressor should also be inspect-ed and replaced if worn, cracked,glazed or oil-fouled. CM

● An A/C compressor is a pumpthat circulates refrigerant.

● Newer vehicles (1994 & up)are factory-equipped with R-134a.

● Catastrophic compressor fail-ure can cause hose, condenserdamage.

In Brief


By Gary Goms, commercial accounts editorMECHANIC CONNECTION

Strutting Their Stuff

The MacPherson Strut thatwe’re so familiar withtoday was invented byEarle S. MacPherson in

1947 and popularly introduced intothe import markets during the1960s and ‘70s, with domestic man-ufacturers following in the 1980s.Many smaller vehicles with unit-ized bodies use MacPherson strutsbecause the design is very compactand contains fewer moving partsthan conventional short/long con-trol arm (SLA) suspensions. Theupside of MacPherson struts is afar more durable suspensiondesign, while the downside is sen-sitivity of tire wear to changes insuspension height.

Macpherson Components

A MacPherson strut should not beconfused with a coil-over shock ab-sorber, which is similar in appear-ance, but functions only as a shockabsorber. In contrast, a MacPher-son strut housing attaches directly

to the steering knuckle and main-tains caster and camber wheelalignment angles. A modern strutconsists of the strut housing, shockabsorber, coil spring, upper sup-port bearing, dust boot and re-bound bumper.

The shock absorber componentconsists of a piston suspended by apiston rod, traveling inside a cylin-der filled with oil. The oil lubri-cates the assembly and providesresistance to piston travel. As thepiston moves vertically, a set ofone-way valves installed in the pis-ton head controls the resistance ofcompression and extension travel.Since the strut’s shock absorber op-erates directly in the wheel assem-bly’s vertical plane of travel, theMacPherson strut tends to be softerand with a greater range of travelthan conventional shock absorbers.On electronically controlled sus-pension systems, the compressionand rebound control valving canbe changed to suit driving condi-tions or the driver’s taste in ridecontrol.

Mechanical Issues

Because struts tend to leak oil fromthe piston shaft seal, a “dry” oilstain forming around a strut’s pis-ton rod seal is normal, while a“wet” oil stain indicates excessiveoil leakage. A major loss of oil in-creases the tendency of the oil tofoam during expressway drivingwhich, in turn, drastically reducesrebound control and increases tirewear. In addition, worn strut sup-port bearings can cause a phenom-enon referred to as “steeringmemory, ” in which the steeringwheel fails to return to center.

Since rebound control in aMacPherson Strut is generally lesspronounced, diagnosing wornstruts is generally more difficult.When a vehicle’s suspension ismanually bounced, the general ruleof thumb states that a good strutshould dampen suspension travelon the first rebound or cycle. Dueto the extensive use of plastics atthe front of most modern vehicles,

● A MacPherson strut housingattaches directly to the steer-ing knuckle and maintainscaster and camber wheelalignment angles.

● A modern strut consists of thestrut housing, shock absorber,coil spring, upper supportbearing, dust boot and re-bound bumper.

● The shock absorber compo-nent consists of a piston sus-pended by a piston rod,traveling inside a cylinderfilled with oil.

In Brief

Above: While this coil-over shockabsorber might appear similar to aMacPherson strut, the upper controlarm is the component that actuallycontrols wheel alignment angles.

Continued on page 50

Below: A true MacPherson strutalways bolts to the steeringknuckle, as pictured. Since anystrut is vulnerable to collisiondamage, it can adversely affectcorrect wheel alignment.

● Water dispersant fuel line anti-freezes can absorb, transportwater.

● Many modern gasoline addi-tives contain some type of up-per cylinder lubricant tolubricate valve guides, seatsand piston rings.

● Using a gasoline stabilizer re-duces hard-starting.

In Brief

and collector car engines equippedwith cast-iron valve seats.

Fuel Injector Cleaners

The symptoms of clogged fuel in-jectors are hard-starting, poor cold-engine performance and sluggishacceleration. These symptoms arecaused by carbon deposits clog-ging the fuel injector nozzles. Mostlower-priced fuel injector cleanersare designed as preventive mainte-nance additives while the higher-priced cleaners are designed to alsoremove heavy carbon depositsfrom cylinder heads, valves andpistons. Any of these additivesgenerally perform well when usedas directed.

Gasoline Stabilizers

While loss of a gasoline’s volatilityisn’t a factor in normal driving, it be-comes a major problem when start-ing seasonal-use vehicles like boats,motor homes, lawn care equipmentand electric generators. Using agasoline stabilizer basically reduceshard-starting caused by the tenden-cy of the more gaseous componentsof gasoline to evaporate into the at-mosphere. Many new formulationsnow include corrosion inhibitorsthat prevent fuel system corrosionfrom water naturally absorbed byethanol-based gasolines.

Diesel Exhaust Fluid

While diesel exhaust fluid (DEF)isn’t a fuel additive, it’s important tounderstand how it’s used. DEF ismetered from a separate tank on thevehicle, directly into the diesel ex-haust gas stream where it breaks ni-trogen oxide compounds (NOX)

mix with the water to prevent fuelline freeze-up. On another level,water dispersant fuel line anti-freezes will actually absorb andtransport water from the gasolinethrough the engine, where it is va-porized into the exhaust stream.Although modern ethanol fuelsperform the same function, manymodern fuel additives neverthelessinclude some type of water disper-sant in their various formulas.

Upper Cylinder Lubricants

Thanks to the use of high-viscosityengine oils, varnish deposits andlow-speed driving, early L-head or“flat head” gasoline engines oftenhad problems with engine valvessticking in their valve guides.Light-viscosity, high-detergent up-per cylinder oils were designed tobe added to the fuel tank to helpclean and lubricate sticking valves.Nowadays, sticking valves are rareand usually caused by insufficientoil clearance in the valve guide as-sembly. Nevertheless, many mod-ern gasoline additives containsome type of upper cylinder lubri-cant to lubricate valve guides, seatsand piston rings.

Octane Boosters

Ethyl lead was used in gasoline formany years to increase the gaso-line’s octane rating and lubricateengine valve seats. After the use ofethyl lead was discontinued duringthe 1970s, octane booster additivesbecame popular for increasing theoctane rating of gasoline used inthe high-compression engines ofthe day. In most cases, a valve seatlubricant is included in an octanebooster to reduce wear on antique

While manyprofessional autorepair techniciansoften classify fuel

additives as “mechanic in a can”solutions to various fuel deliveryproblems, fuel additives can pre-vent or remedy many fuel deliverysystem problems. All too often, thetopic of fuel additives is cloudedby a lack of definition between thedifferent categories of fueladditives and the conditionsthey’re designed to address. Toavoid further confusion on thetopic of fuel additives, we’lldiscuss the need for various cate-gories of fuel additives from a his-torical perspective. Most of thesefuel additives will fall into sevenbasic categories:

Fuel-Line Antifreeze

From the earliest days of the auto-mobile, water condensation nor-mally found in gasoline storagetanks and in automobile fuel tanksoften caused the fuel line to freezeduring cold weather. The historicremedy is to add various alcohol-based fuel line antifreezes that will

Fuel Additives Can Prevent, RemedyMany Fuel Delivery System Issues

MECHANIC CONNECTIONBy Gary Goms, commercial accounts editor



manually testing rebound controlis difficult. The best method thatI’ve found for testing rebound con-trol on struts is taking a short testdrive over some mild bumps ordips in a driveway or road surface.If rebound control exceeds one cy-cle, the struts should be replaced.

Installation Tips

Replacement struts are often soldas replacement cartridges requiringspecial tooling and major disas-sembly. First, the strut must be re-moved from the vehicle andinstalled in a strut vise. Keep inmind that removing or installingthe spring can be very dangerous if

recommended equipment isn’tused and specific safety proceduresnot followed. The spring must becompressed with tools specificallydesigned for this purpose. Thesupport bearing retaining nut mustbe safely removed, along with thespring, boot and rebound bumper.Next, the strut cartridge retainingnut might require a special wrenchor socket for removal.

In contrast, most ride controlmanufacturers are now offeringstrut assemblies complete withnew springs, boots, reboundbumpers and support bearings.Most professional shops havefound that installing complete as-semblies largely reduces defects inworkmanship and performance.Last, always recommend sellingstruts in pairs or sets of four anddon’t forget to remind the techni-cian that a wheel alignment mightbe required to restore camber andtoe angles to manufacturer’s origi-nal specifications. CM


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MECHANIC CONNECTION

into its basic components of nitro-gen and water. If the driver ignoresDEF warning lights indicating thatthe DEF level is becoming criticallylow, the diesel’s Powertrain ControlModule (PCM) might limit vehiclespeeds to about five miles per houruntil the DEF level is restored.

Anti-Gelling Additives

In contrast to DEF, anti-gelling addi-tives are added to the fuel tank toliquify the solidified paraffin wax or“gel” that forms in the fuel andclogs diesel fuel filters during sub-freezing temperatures. While mod-ern diesels use heated fuel lines andfilters to prevent gelling, anti-gellingadditives might be required to im-prove cold-starting performanceduring extreme winter tempera-tures. Most anti-gelling additivesalso include solvents that clean fuelsystems, remove water and lubricatefuel injectors. CM

Struts continued from page 46

Fuel additives continued from page 48


TPMS UPDATE

No Spare, No Problem?

Automakers are selling more cars with fourwheels and tires instead of five to trimweight, boost gas mileage and save money.Fortunately, fewer motorists need to change

tires anymore. In addition to technical improvementsthat have made flats less likely, TPMS provides driv-ers with warnings of low air pressure, leaks andpunctures. Often, that means the tire gets properlyinflated or fixed before it goes flat or before damageoccurs, resulting in a blowout.

The benefits of eliminating the spare are too big formost automakers to ignore. Engineers struggle to re-duce a car’s weight by ounces, and getting rid of the

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By Andrew Markel

spare tire is a way to shed up to 50pounds. Generally, a 10 percent re-duction in vehicle weight yields a 6percent improvement in fuel econo-my – and spare tires and jacks areeasy targets.

Gaining a 10th of a mile per gal-lon in federal fuel economy tests isimportant in meeting ever-expand-ing CAFE standards. Those poundsand ounces may allow an au-tomaker to reach 29.5 mpg on a ve-hicle – which can be rounded up to30 mpg on the window sticker.

The consumer benefits too; a 1mpg difference in fuel efficiencymay save more than $100 per year,according to the Department of En-ergy. If an owner drives 100,000miles carrying around a spare tirethey never use, it burns a lot of ex-tra gasoline. Also, deleting the spareoften provides more trunk space.

The cost savings to auto manu-facturers are substantial: eliminat-ing the spare saves at least $20 percar. In the 2012 model year, ap-proximately 15 percent of new carscame without spare tires. With theexception of pickups and SUVslikely to be driven off-road, thetrend for most vehicles is to elimi-nate the spare. In most cases, aspare won’t even be offered as op-tional equipment – and there maynot even be a place to put a spare.

When tire failures do occur, driv-ers increasingly rely on roadsideassistance services to take care ofthe problem. With help easilyavailable through cell phones,many people simply choose not (ordon’t know how) to deal with flattires – even if they have a spare.Drivers may still fear being strand-ed, but the almost universal use ofcell phones has made that muchless likely – whether or not theyhave a spare.

So how is the owner of a no-spare car supposed to deal with aflat? No matter if the car has run-flats or fix-a-flat, the owner mustobey their TPMS system and eitherre-inflate or repair the flat. If they

choose to ignore the problem, theywill definitely be stranded.

Many expensive cars are optingfor run-flat tires, which can bedriven at moderate speeds for 50miles or so with a puncture. The re-inforcement built into run-flatssupports the weight of the car andis designed to allow a driver tofind a safe spot to stop, rather thanbeing stranded in an unsafe placeor on the side of a highway. But,since run-flats are limited to 50miles after they lose air pressure, ifa motorist is too far from civiliza-tion, they may not help much.

Flat-Fixing Kits

As an alternative, many OEMs arereplacing spare tires with “mobilitykits” designed to fix most flats.These consist of a can of sealantthat is injected through the valvestem to plug the puncture, and asmall electric compressor to rein-flate the tire.

Tire mobility kits typically weighless than six pounds, compared to30 for a temporary spare and 50 ormore pounds for a full-size spare.Unfortunately, they, too, have draw-backs. The kits generally only workon punctures of 1/4-inch or less inthe tread or shoulder areas of thetire. Blowouts, cuts, cracks and side-wall damage that potholes frequent-ly inflict on low-profile tires cannotbe repaired by the kits. OEMsealants are typically approved foruse with TPMS sensors. But, long-term exposure can lead to damage.

Using these kits is pretty simple:plug the unit into a 12-volt poweroutlet (cigarette lighter), and con-


TPMS UPDATE // No Spare, No Problem?

nect the air hose from the compres-sor to the tire valve. Once thesealant tank is flipped up, the com-pressor re-inflates the tire and fillsthe tire with a latex-based liquidsealant, which seals the puncture.This usually takes five to sevenminutes. Then, the tire can be usedat a maximum speed of 50 mph forup to 125 miles.

The instructions on most kitssuggest driving four or five milesand then rechecking the inflationpressure with the built-in pressuregauge. Standard pencil, dial or dig-ital tire pressure gauges should notbe used because they can be ruinedby the sealant. After using the mo-bility kit, the sealed tire should bedriven to the nearest tire shop andinspected to determine whether itcan be permanently repaired ormust be replaced.

Another potential problem forconsumers is the limited life spanof the sealant. Sealant canisters allhave “use by dates,” which own-ers are advised to check. Depend-ing on the kit, the sealant canistertypically should be replaced afterfour or five years. It’s not hard toimagine that sealant canister “use

by dates” will probably be checkedby most consumers about as oftenas they check spare tire inflationpressures.

In addition to their OE fitments,both the Continental and Dunlopkits are aimed at consumers whodon’t have a spare, but don’t wantto purchase replacement run-flattires. They weigh a little more thanfive pounds each, can easily bestored in the trunk of a vehicle, andboth also can be used to check andmonitor tire pressure through abuilt-in compressor and tire gauge.

Stop & Go International offers analternative tire mobility kit thatcombines a compressor with aPocket Tire Plugger, necessaryhand tools and mushroom-shapedrubber plugs to repair punctures.The mushroom head of the plug isdesigned to seal the puncture andallows for the resumption of nor-mal highway speeds. By avoidingspray-in tire sealant, Stop & Goclaims to avoid the potential fordamage to TPMS sensors and thenecessity for a tire dismount.

However, the advisability of us-ing a plugged, rather than a proper-ly repaired tire, is a real issue. CM


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TPMS UPDATE // No Spare, No Problem?


Hold my hand dear readers, we areabout to enter the utilitarianworld of tabs. That’s right, insteadof apps I figured it’s time we

talked about tabs. Tabs, a rather boringfour-letter word, with a ton of variedmeanings, from bar bills to ancient dietcolas to paragraph indentations. But todaywe want to talk about the little tabs that sitatop your Internet browsers while you surfthe Web.

Back in the late 90s, browsers could onlyopen one Web page per window. Openingmultiple Web pages meant opening asmany windows, thus creating a drain onyour PC’s resources and a cacophony of in-formation that forced you into cascadingwindows layered like a sliced cake. Butsoon after the turn of the century, theMozilla foundation gifted the Firefoxbrowser to the world and introduced Websurfers to tabbed browsing, a function thatallowed users to surf the Web while view-ing multiple pages by loading them intotabbed sections within just one browserwindow. Today, every major Web browser,including mobile smartphone browsers,work this way.

The ability to open multiple tabs in abrowser allows users to multi-task at lev-els never seen before on our counters. Ifyou want to see this function in action,just visit one of your customers and askto sit behind their best counterperson. Iguarantee he or she will have multipletabs open, hopefully including yourecommerce site in the first tab, along withall of your competitors’ websites, manu-facturers’ catalog sites and a Facebookpage or two — all opened and in-sync toallow them to do the many lookups weask of our customers today. They are like

COUNTER-TECHBy Mandy Aguilar

Tabs, Not Apps, to Sell More Parts

big wave surfers riding the Web from tabto tab, checking and rechecking cataloginfo, buyer’s guides, interchanges, pic-tures and competitors’ prices all withinone screen — our industry’s wealth of in-formation at the beck and call of theirlightning fast fingers.

Interestingly, many software developershave tapped the power of tabs to createsmall, but useful, applications that operatewithin the tab functionality but act like afull-blown software program. I have foundthree such “intelligent” tabs that have be-come part of how I now surf the web.

Convert Case (http://www.convertcase.net/)Many of us in this industry still interactwith legacy computer systems that forsome God-forsaken reason require us towrite everything in ALL CAPS, BUTWHEN YOU SWITCH BACK TO THEWEB, WE OFTEN FORGET TO LOWERTHOSE CAPS! DAMN IT, I JUST DID ITAGAIN RIGHT NOW! I do this all the timeand hate to have to retype my words, oftenopting to just send an email in all caps,hoping the recipient will understand thatwhen I was typing the message, I was juststicking to my bad form of not looking atwhat I’m typing, but looking at the key-board instead. I’m in no way yelling,screaming nor ranting at them (REALLY,I’M NOT!).

After years of suffering through count-less retypings from UPPER to lower cases, Ifound Convert Case, a simple tool that al-lows you to copy and paste your all-capped words and have them convertedinto a variety of formats like all-lower, all-capitalized, or my favorite, “SentenceCase.” I use this tool so often, I have savedMandy Aguilar is a

regional vice president forJacksonville, Fla.-based

The Parts House.

The ability toopen multipletabs in abrowser allowsusers to multi-task at levelsnever seenbefore on ourcounters.



Airtex Introduces New Mobile Application

To Scan Vehicle Identification Numbers

Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems, the world’s leading man-ufacturer of fuel pumps, has introduced a new mobileapplication compatible with Apple iPhones. This app isavailable for FREE download in the Apple App Store.The Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems VIN Scan App usesthe smartphone’s camera to scan the vehicle identifica-tion number saving the user the time and trouble ofpunching in multiple numbers.

Once the VIN is scanned, the application takes the userto the Airtex product catalog for that specific vehicle, dis-playing the fuel pump needed, technical specificationsand where to buy. The app can also be used to search forAirtex products by entering the part number or year,make and model of the vehicle.

The new Airtex VIN Scan App includes numerous cus-tomer support resources like downloads, videos, and ac-cess to free technical support. This resource providescountermen, technicians and do-it-yourselfers with real-time educational assistance, diagnostic training, techni-cal tips and common diagnostic procedures.

“We are committed toproviding unmatchedcustomer service andtechnical support,” saysBrandon Kight, directorof marketing and pro-gram development at Airtex Fuel Delivery Systemsand ASC Industries. “This app allows our customersto save a lot of the time and hassle associated withfinding the right part. With this VIN Scan App, it liter-ally takes only a few seconds to scan the VIN andknow the fuel pump that you need. All of the part spe-cific technical support videos and resources are allright there, which will provide all the knowledgeneeded to do the job right the first time.”

Akebono is essential to greater profitability, increased bay utilization and satisfiedcustomers. With the most variety of friction formulations, Akebono brake pads areOE-engineered to enhance the performance demanded by each vehicle model.

As the world’s leading brake innovator, Akebono’s ultra-premium brake padsare factory installed on more than 270 models. Akebono’s friction technology isprecision engineered to offer superior performance, quality and profitability. Learnmore about the OEM brand of choice and why Akebono is essential to all your brak-ing solution needs.

www.akebonobrakes.com 1-866-AKEBONO

[email protected]

The Essence Of Braking

counterman.com 61

ADVICS Ultra-Premium Disc Brake Pads

ADVICS designs and produces brake pads for OE manufacturersaround the world. The engineering that goes into ADVICS brake padshas taken original ceramic friction technology to the next level, resultingin increased stopping power and overall braking performance.

To ensure safety in any road condition, ADVICS develops its products to be reliable on a variety of road surfaces and in varying climate conditions. ADVICS creates high-performance, high-qualitybraking systems through the verification of system performance, vehicle movement simulations, brake squeal and vibration analysis,dynamometer performance testing, durability assessment, in-vehiclevalidation and in-vehicle calibration studies.

The ADVICS OE engineering team manages the design and manufacture of each part number offered in the aftermarket.

Visit www.ADVICS-na.com to learn more about ADVICS braking systems or email

[email protected].

2014 Raybestos Rattlesnake™ Toyota Tundra

To Be Given Away At AAPEX

The 2014 Raybestos Rattlesnake™ Toyota Tundra is Texas-made, and Texas-tough … capable of ripping through severe off-road trails and harsh desert terrain. TheRaybestos Rattlesnake™ is being customized by AddictiveDesert Designs and will feature custom bumpers, side stepsand chase rack.

Thanks to Toyota Racing Development (TRD), a Toyota5.7-Liter aluminum i-FORCE DOHC 32 valve V-8 with atuned TRD Supercharger helps the Raybestos Rattlesnake™ reach 600+ hp. It also will include a high-liftoff road suspension and off-road shocks.

Its stopping power will come from the same Raybestosshort track racing brake package used by the Joe GibbsRacing team. The Raybestos Rattlesnake™ will stretch itsoff-road muscle with Raybestos Professional Grade chas-sis parts.

TRD also will install headers and a full stainless steel muf-fler exhaust with polished stainless steel tips. “It is going tohave a pressurized air intake to allow the engine to breathea lot better … like an engine twice its size,” said Ted Mon-cure, the TRD Functional Accessory Engineering Manager.

The Raybestos Rattlesnake™ also will have improved

fuel economy and,after Moncure’s teamof engineers and tech-nicians get throughwith it, the 2014 Tundra will have 30percent more horse-power and 25 percentmore torque.

World-renownedtattoo artist CoreyMiller will give thes ignature-edi t iontruck its custom wrap. Miller took his inspiration from a for-midable Texas icon … the Texas Rattlesnake. A rattler withthe iconic flair of a Corey Miller tattoo will be shown onboth sides of the truck, and a signature “Raybestos FlyingR” will be emblazoned on the hood.


Introducing CRC 1-TANK POWER RENEW

CRC Industries Inc., manufacturer of leading brake partscleaner CRC Brakleen®, has introduced CRC 1-TANKPower Renew®, a complete fuel system cleanup proven torestore lost engine performance, dramatically improve ve-hicle power and injector flow and increase fuel economy.The product is available in both gasoline and diesel formulations.

Over time, impurities in fuels will cause carbon depositbuildup that hardens on intake valves, piston heads,cylinder walls, injectors and other fuel system compo-nents. Even microscopic deposit formations can causeperformance issues.

1-TANK POWER RENEW for gasoline removes carbondeposits from all areas of the fuel system with proven re-sults after the very first use. The effects of the depositcleanup will last up to 4,000 miles.

The company has conducted extensive fleet testing ofthe product with impressive results: 97 percent totalpower recovery, 100 percent misfire recovery, 99 percentinjector flow improvement and up to 5.7 percent milesper gallon increase. 1-TANK POWER RENEW for gaso-

line also is proven to cleanintake valves on direct injec-tion (GDI) engines.

Testing of the diesel for-mula, CRC 1-TANKPOWER RENEW for diesel,yielded similar results: 100percent power restoration,100 percent deposit re-moval and 99 percent injec-tor flow improvement.

For vehicles experiencing hesitation, stalling, pre-igni-tion, engine knock, poor acceleration or an overall loss ofpower, 1-TANK POWER RENEW can eliminate theseproblems and help regain missing power, performanceand fuel economy.

CRC 1-TANK POWER RENEW is sold at NAPA AutoParts locations and other quality automotive wholesaledistributors and retailers.

For more information, visit www.crc1tank.com

Lift Your Profitability With VDO

If your customers are looking for more profitable servicejobs, tell them about power window repair. As windowlifts wear and tear through use and weather extremes, theparts tend to operate slower than originally designed andeventually bind up, damaging either the regulator, themotor or both.

But these problems can be solved easily and effectivelywith VDO OE-quality replacement parts. They are avail-able at a reasonable price outside of the dealer networkand designed to fit just like the original components.The VDO line includes motors, regulators and motor

regulator assemblies. So why replace an entire assembly,if only the motor or regulator is bad? With VDO, yourcustomer can buy only those parts the vehicle reallyneeds, saving the customer a bundle and still bringingin good income from labor.

VDO power window lift components are engineered forvehicle-specific form, fit and function and come with OEstyle electrical connectors for quick and trouble-free instal-lation. All VDO products are made to OE quality standardsin ISO-certified facilities to the same specifications andquality standards as the OE components supplied by Con-tinental to automakers worldwide.

The overall VDO Door Systems Program features morethan 1,300 products, which are available for most popu-lar import and domestic automobiles and light trucks.

Check the VDO online catalog for coverage atwww.vdo.com/usa or contact: [email protected] foradditional information.

VDO is a Trademark of the Continental Corporation

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Arnott Inc. is the global leader in replacement air suspension products for lux-ury cars, trucks and SUVs. Arnott is known for its quality products, which costjust a fraction of what dealers charge. Since 1989, Arnott has designed, manufac-tured and assembled air springs, air struts, compressors and coil spring conver-sion kits in the USA using superior domestic and foreign components. Arnottincorporates the highest-quality components into its products, including CNC-machined aircraft quality aluminum, rugged rubber air springs from vendorssuch as ContiTech and Goodyear, new shocks from Bilstein, and compressorsfrom WABCO, AMK and Gast. Arnott prides itself in offering exceptional cus-tomer service, same-day shipping from multiple distribution centers, installa-tion manuals and videos, and an OE fit every time.

Arnott offers multiple options when it comes to air suspension repair. Formany applications, Arnott offers new air springs to repair a customer’s currentstrut, completely remanufactured assemblies with new caps, seals and blad-ders, brand new Arnott designed replacements and coil spring conversion kits– all with a limited lifetime warranty. Arnott also carries a complete line of OE-quality air suspension compressors, which come with a one-year warranty.Arnott products are backed with a 30-day money back guarantee and a 90-dayreturn policy on unused and uninstalled products. For more information, or todownload Arnott’s new catalog, visit www.ArnottInc.com. At AAPEX, stop byArnott’s booth No. 6338.

®

Air Suspension Products

Arnott: Quality Products At A Fraction Of The Cost

Autolite® XP Xtreme Performance® Iridium enhanced spark plugs are one of Auto-lite’s most technologically advanced spark plugs ever. With an iridium-enhanced.6mm finewire design and proprietary V-trimmed platinum sidewire technology,these spark plugs provide better durability* and a more focused ignition for betteroverall ignitability** and optimum performance.

* Compared to .8mm finewire, multi-electrode design and standard plugs

** Compared to average of other premium brands

Autolite® XP Xtreme Performance® Spark Plugs


Federated Offers Premium Braking Performance

For Today’s Vehicles

Federated Auto Parts has developed an addition to its fric-tion offering with a new co-label line developed and sup-plied by Wagner Brake. The new product line is a premiumoffering designed for professionals that was exclusively de-signed for Federated members and their customers.

The line uses the highest-performing formulas specificto each application and includes System Synergy Technol-ogy (SST), which is an OE approach to brake design thatensures the interaction of all brake components to providethe ultimate performance.

Each set of Federated Professional Premium is engi-neered and designed to match the OE pad in fit, form andfunction and uses premium formulations and shims de-signed for ultimate performance on each application.

The System Synergy Technology focuses on managing theNVH (noise, vibration and harshness) issues through test-ing and validation of the various components used in discpad designs. While many consider a disc brake pad onecomponent it actually consists of many different compo-nents including backing plates, shims, hardware, along withfriction material, slots and chamfers that all must be de-signed to work together to deliver ultimate performance.

W o r k i n gwith WagnerBrake experts,Federated hasdeveloped aproduct linethat uses OEdesigns, and improvements in materials and componentintegration, to deliver superior performance to other af-termarket lines. The Federated Professional Premium lineprovides superior braking performance, long life andquiet operation for customers who perform premiumbrake service and have a reputation for using high-qual-ity brand name parts.

Federated Professional Premium brake uses an OE ap-proach to the design process that delivers the ultimate inoverall performance for the professional service providerand is available exclusively frommembers and affiliates of FederatedAuto Parts. For more information,visit www.federatedautoparts.com.

The KYB Strut-Plus

The KYB Strut-Plus means “OE-Plus” for the vehicle: TheKYB Strut-Plus is a ready-to-install assembly that doesn’t re-quire a special spring compressor to transfer parts. It’s OE-Plus because it’s designed to “restore” designedperformance. That’s better than using an OE replacementpart because OE parts are designed for new vehicles, notused vehicles. The Strut-Plus goal is to help restore the vehi-cle’s tire and body control, which affects vehicle stability,stopping distance, lane change responsiveness and overallhandling.

Every component in a complete strut assembly is critical toits overall performance: That’s why the KYB Strut-Plus onlyincludes the highest OE or better components. At the heart ofStrut-Plus is the Excel-G Gas Strut, which is built on the sameKYB OE assembly lines and is calibrated to compensate for

wear caused by vehicle age and miles driven. Where applicable, the KYB Strut-Plus also includesa new coil spring, mount, insulator, bearing plate and attaching parts. The KYB Strut-Plus comespre-assembled (except some models), saves time on installation, eliminates assembly errors andincludes all necessary components to get the job done right, the first time.

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Our Best Brake Pad Ever

As the No. 1 supplier of global frictionto OE manufacturers and the after-market, Federal-Mogul and Wagner®

Brake have developed the first fullline of ceramic formulations certifiedto the industry’s new 2021 low-copperstandard. More importantly, newWagner ThermoQuiet® CeramicNXT

brake pads, featuring Wagner OE21™low-copper technology, set impressivenew benchmarks for overall pad per-formance and customer satisfaction.

Redefining the Science of Ceramic Friction.

Wagner Brake’s global R&D team utilized a sophisticatedtribological “fingerprinting” process to isolate and analyzethe performance of each material within conventional ce-ramic friction formulations. Once they mapped the dy-namic characteristics of copper in a full range of operatingconditions, they screened some 1,500 new raw materials tofind the ideal low-copper combinations for a full range ofOE and replacement applications.

The proprietary new Wagner OE21 formulations not

only beat the legislative deadline forreducing copper in ceramic brakeformulations, but they also provideacross-the-board improvements ineach key area of performance: 35percent quieter braking; 15 percentmore stopping power; up to 40 per-cent greater fade resistance; longerlife; and reduced dusting.

Wagner ThermoQuiet CeramicNXT

with Wagner OE21 technology – it’s our best brakepad ever.

Available Today!

Learn more about these eco-friendly, low-copper formula-tions and Wagner ThermoQuiet CeramicNXT brake pads bycontacting your Wagner Brake supplier or visitingwww.WagnerBrake.com.

Better Grid, Better Performance

Grids are the back-bone of a battery.And just like a back-bone, a better struc-ture means betterperformance. Today,there’s no better gridthan PowerFrame.

PowerFrame is amore advanced kindof positive grid tech-nology that improvesthe performance ofthe car battery.

The metal thatmakes up an ordinary grid can easily corrode and breakdown. To make a better grid, we started by making astronger metal and patenting an advanced manufactur-ing process. Each strip of the PowerFrame grid is rolledout into a precise thickness to deliver the maximum elec-trical flow and provide optimal strength. The Power-Frame grid design provides the shortest, most direct route

for electrons to move freely, providing up to 70 percentbetter electrical flow than other grids deliver.

The stronger metal makes the grid more resistant to thecorrosive qualities of acid and provides a sturdier outerframe for protection in high temperatures. The result isthat PowerFrame technology is up to 66 percent moredurable than other grid designs.

“Grids manufactured utilizing PowerFrame technologynot only lead the industry in consistency, greatly reduc-ing the occurrence of premature failure, but also offer sub-stantial benefits to resist corrosion in the environmentsthat degrade battery performance, ” says Joseph E. Lied-hgner Ph.D – manager, aftermarket customer engineer-ing, Johnson Controls North America.

In addition to building a stronger battery, Power-Frame’s patented manufacturing process produces 20 per-cent fewer greenhouse gases, using 20 percent less energythan other manufacturing processes.

PowerFrame on the outside, means True Strength™ onthe inside.

To learn more about PowerFrame technology, visit our website at powerframe.com

or see us at AAPEX (booth 1826).


As a result of the pro-gressing acquisitionby MAHLE of BehrIndustry GmbH &Co. KG, MAHLE Clevite Inc. will expand its NorthAmerican product of-fering to include Behr

Thermot-tronik thermostats and other components fortemperature regulation. The product addition will beon display at MAHLE Clevite Inc. booth No. 3461 atthis year’s AAPEX Show.

To operate efficiently while minimizing wear emis-sions, the combustion engine requires the temperatureto remain as constant as possible. Thermostats providethis control function by regulating the engine temper-ature with coolant.

While thermostats are designed to last for the entireservice life of a vehicle and are not naturally subject towear, a number of factors can lead to material fatigue

and require replacement. Whether due to an accidentor as part of repair or maintenance work done to thecooling system, thermostats should be replaced at thattime to ensure continued functionality. The slightestreduction of functionality or even complete failure canhave severe consequences.

The strategic alliance with Behr Group has providedthe means for MAHLE Aftermarket to offer a full line ofthermal management products to the automotive after-market. A subsidiary of Behr GmbH & Co. KG, BehrThermot-tronik GmbH (BTT) is a leading manufacturerof thermostats and temperature regulation systems forautomotive and industrial applications. The develop-ment and production expertise of the Behr Group is nowcombined with and backed by the power of the MAHLEbrand, synonymous with uncompromising high equip-ment quality without compromise.

The extensive range of thermostats, switches andsensors will be introduced under the globallyrenowned MAHLE Original brand at the 2013 AAPEXShow.

MAHLE Clevite Inc. To Offer Behr Thermot-tronik Thermostats

Magnum Gaskets has tripled its offering to nearly 1,000SKUs as part of its continued growth initiative. World-classhead gaskets, head sets and head bolts have joined Mag-num’s line of premium-quality valve covers, oil pans andmanifold gaskets at very competitive prices. For nearly 20years, Magnum’s parent company, Modern Silicone Tech-nologies Inc. (MSI), has manufactured state-of-the-artmolded gaskets for major aftermarket brands and OEMs.

Under Magnum’s “USA FIRST” policy, more than 90percent of Magnum Gaskets are designed, manufacturedand packaged in the USA. The Magnum line features spe-cial product advantages, such as two valve cover gasketsincluded in the GM 5.0/5.7L Intake manifold gasket set,where competitors have only one gasket. MagnumMaxDry STL steel carrier gaskets also boast uniquely scal-loped intake gasket ports that reduce stress on seals andextend gasket life.

Many AAPEX attendees are seriously involved in high-performance and diesel markets. Magnum recently intro-duced a complete line of performance gaskets, featuringadvanced materials and designs for Chevy SB, BB andGM LS motors plus popular Ford and Chrysler applica-

tions. All sets come in attractive skin packs that containeverything necessary for a successful installation. Mag-num has addressed the diesel market by adding 99 newindividually boxed heavy-duty gaskets and seals for pop-ular Class 4 to Class 8 diesel trucks. Coverage includesDodge/Ram Cummins, Ford Powerstroke, GM Duramax,Navistar DT466, Cat C7 and C9, Detroit Diesel Series 60and Cummins ISX.

See Magnum Gaskets at AAPEX booth No. 1081 from Nov. 5-7 in Las Vegas or click magnumgaskets.com.

Magnum Gaskets By MSI Expands Product Line At AAPEX.

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Following the successful launch of the Penray Plus™ line of chemicals andfunctional fluids, The Penray Companies Inc. has expanded the line to in-clude innovative new products tailored specifically for DIY customers.

Tire Fix Plus™, an innovative emergency tire inflator with proprietaryLeak Detective™, leaves an easily identified fluorescent mark where it hassealed the leak. This new product allows for quick and safe roadside infla-tion, while facilitating repair later. Now offered in four different containersizes and configurations to better meet your needs.

Other new Penray Plus™ products include professional strength glasscleaner, designed specifically to clean and remove bugs, tar and other con-taminants that resist typical household glass cleaners. And, Penray’s just-released Liquid Tune-Up®, a uniquely engineered kit of three essentialchemicals for treating engine oil, fuel and coolant, enhancing engine per-formance, economy and longevity.

www.Penray.com

Penray Plus™ Automotive Line Expands

Solv-Tec K-Seal Permanent Total Coolant Leak Repair

Solv-Tec returns to AAPEX following afantastic year for its top selling K-SealPermanent Total Coolant Leak Repair.“Sales are up 50 percent in the U.S. aloneand we have exciting new developmentsin our international markets,” said Solv-Tec President (CEO) Patrick O’Brien.

K-Seal is a one-step permanent totalcoolant leak repair. It will successfullyfix leaks in the head, head gasket, block,radiator, heater core and water pumpcasing. The unique formulation is com-patible with all types of antifreeze andis as simple to use as topping up thecooling system, a true pour-and-go.O’Brien continues, “With K-Seal there isno confusion for the consumer becausethe product is suitable for all types ofengine and all types of leaks. And, all ofthis for a great price. This not only ben-

efits the consumer but also saves the re-tailer time.”

Solv-Tec also is excited about its na-tional supplier arrangements withO’Reilly, Pep Boys, Auto Value/Bumperto Bumper , NAPA and scores of inde-pendent WDs and jobbers from coast-to-coast. This has enabled them to moreeasily meet the increased demand fromboth the retail and commercial consumerfollowing a successful National PR cam-paign. Demand also is growing interna-tionally with new distributors comingon stream in Europe and Australasia.Mike Schlup, international sales directorexplains more, “The Internet and socialmedia have helped to spread the successstory of K-Seal and we have people fromaround the globe contacting us dailyabout how to get hold of K-Seal.”

To find out more about K-Seal

visit the Solv-Tec booth at

AAPEX #6136

For more information please contact:Patrick O’Brien

Tel: 609-261-4242Email: [email protected]


Fuel Pump Assembly – Know What You Buy

With the increase of alcohol in fuel found across North American fill-ing stations, Spectra Premium’s enhanced components increase theresistance to alcohol-rich fuels. Carbon commutators are utilized inhigh-flow pumps, which generate less heat and equate to a longer-lasting fuel pump, whereas Palladium silver alloy is utilized inSpectra’s fuel level sensors to increase durability and ensure accu-rate gauge readings. #KnowWhatYouBuy

www.spectrapremium.com

Performance + Control = TrustTimken® Sensor-PacTM wheel hub units include the same advanced

anti-lock braking system (ABS) technologies as most original equip-ment (OE), individually tested to ensure performance and quality. Theintegration and internal mounting of electronic wheel speed sensorsprovide protection from debris, contamination and thermal shock.

Timken Sensor-Pac wheel hub units, manufactured from custom-designed alloy steel, feature industry-leading Timken® tapered rollerbearings and are pre-adjusted, pre-greased and pre-sealed.

Despite prolonged braking periods, contamination and extremetemperatures, Timken Sensor-Pac wheel hub units deliver exceptional

performance, traction control and life.

Contact a Timken sales representative today to discover how our Sensor-PacTM wheel hub units

can improve performance of your vehicles.

(866) 9-TIMKEN (984-6536)

http://www.timken.com

Timken® Sensor-PacTM Wheel Hub Units

their webpage as a permanent tabon my browser. A word of warningto my regular email recipients —now you know that if you still getan email from me with all caps, Ireally am yelling.

data:text/html, <html contented-itable>This one is a quick and easy way toopen a tab to jot down a quick notethat does not need to be saved.There are a myriad of options to dothis on note pads, Post-it notes,and sophisticated word processors,but there is swift quickness of do-

ing this in the same browser youare already working in. This tool isso cool its not even a Website, but abit of HTML code that, when past-ed into the browser’s URL bar, itwill open a new, empty tab whereyou can type a quick note in sec-onds. Just copy and paste the in-struction as written above in yourbrowser’s URL bar and give it awhirl.

Timer-Tab (http://www.timer-tab.com/)

This one is not only super useful,but is beautiful to look at. An aptly

named tab tool that allows you tomanage time right on your tabs. A3-in-1 solution: a timer, an alarmand a stopwatch. All three toolscan be easily found elsewhere inour wristwatches and smart-phones, but I find that by engagingthese tools on my browser, I actual-ly get to use them more. For in-stance, I set up a timer when Istarted writing this column and Ican see now that I have spent waytoo much time on it, better get backto selling parts now! CM

counterman.com 69

COUNTER-TECH

Get FREE product and service info from the companies featured in this issue of Counterman. It’s fast and easy!

www.Counterman.com/ASAPand click the company you want info from!

Advertiser Page Advertiser PageAdvance Auto Parts 19Advics 27,61Affinia Undercar Group 75Affinia/Raybestos 56,59,61AIA 77Airtex Corp. 60Aisin 73Akebono Brake Corp. 39,60Amsoil Inc. 21Apex Automobile Parts 3Arnott Industries 63Autolite 40,41,63Autologue 14,15Bar’s Products 30,32CARQUEST Corp. 7Centric Parts 54,55Contitech Cover 3CRC Industries 51,62DEA Products 5DENSO 31,57DMA Goodpoint 50ExxonMobil Cover 4Federal-Mogul 65Federal-Mogul/Wagner Brakes 24,25Federated Auto Parts 1,64Gabriel Ride Control 20

Johnson Controls 65KYB Americas Corp. 29,64Mahle Clevite 23,66Mann + Hummel 22Mevotech 47Magnum Gaskets 66Motor Components LLC 37NGK Spark Plugs 28Nissan North America 35NUCAP 70,71Packard Industries 18Penray 49,67LuK 9SK Hand Tool 12Solv-Tec 67Spectra Premium Industries 68Standard Motor Products 53TechSmart 13Timken 68Trico Products Cover 2TYC/Genera Corp. 45US Motor Works 26VDO 62Volkswagen Parts & Accessories 17Walker Products 43

■ ■ ■

Visit Mandy’s blog: www.mandyaguilar.com

Continued from page 58


Ilook back on the many years I havespent in the automotive aftermarket, Ifind that I have many stories. Some ofthem are very informative, some of

them are just war stories and some of themare really true. Nevertheless, when I firstcontacted Mark Phillips, the Countermaneditor, I told him all I really wanted to do isshare those experiences with any and allwho might read them and find some usefrom them.

Recently, in a sales meeting it was an-nounced that I am a columnist for Counter-man magazine. When the guestacknowledged my presence the first thingthat came to mind was, “Yes and some ofthe columns are pretty good, too.” My at-tempt at humor is sometimes perfect andat other times, not so much. And as funnyas I try to be, it sometimes belies the seri-ous nature of what we do for a living.

When I consider all the questions andanswers and study it takes to stay-up-to-date with the ever-changing climate of ourchosen profession, it becomes clear that weoverlook the one thing that we all have tooffer.

When I considered where my training

KEEPING IT SIMPLEBy Gerald Wheelus

You Have No Time For That?

and knowledge has come from, thethought always turns to my first boss. Thetruth is, the people I supervise todaycould not have worked for him. But, I wasforced to learn the “parts business” or getout. The second thing I think of is themoney he spent on training me and send-ing me to class, not because he made mewant to, because I wanted to. After that, Iconsider the amount of money that thenext company I worked for spent on meand in my estimation was around$250,000 over an 11-year period. Not be-cause they made me, but because I wantedto. Not every company can combine re-sources with another company and offerthat kind of investment for all of us. Notall of us will be so fortunate to have thatopportunity.

The opportunity afforded to me wasbased on my willingness to offer the onlything I really had to offer, and that wastime.

What do we sell our employers when wego to work for them? Time, in return for apaycheck. Philosophically speaking, wesell talent, knowledge, ability and manyother things, but those are in addition to

the time we sell. People can and will argue this

with me and that is fine. But, in aday, week, month and year, most ofus will use as an excuse, “I did nothave enough time.” We will blameco-workers, whether they are mereco-workers or they are subordi-nates to us. We will blame cus-tomers, supervisors, family,friends, traffic or anything else wecan find to blame for the ineptnesswe have displayed for whateverfailure we have come across. But,did we manage the time we actual-ly had? CM

Gerald Wheelus isgeneral manager of

Edgewood Auto Parts,Edgewood, Texas.

What do we sellour employerswhen we go towork for them?Time is what wesell to ouremployers inreturn for ourpaycheck.

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By Amy Antenora

Having joined the company in 2003, Henry Hippert has been amajor contributor to the dramatic and consistent growth EasternCatalytic has demonstrated over the past several years. In thisinterview, Hippert brings us up to speed on recent expansion

efforts taking place at Eastern thanks to the company’s continued growthand success, and also gives us an update on state-by-state CARBregulations.

Last time we spoke, roughly a yearago, the company had just expand-ed in Langhorne, Pa., with the addi-tion of a new 103,000-square-footfinished goods inventory and ship-ping center. Tell us about the efficien-cies and improvements the companyhas experienced as a result of thisexpansion.

Yes, the expansion is about 90percent complete. Assembly of thefinal racking for our catalytic con-verters that have been granted anExecutive Order (EO) from the Cal-ifornia Air Resource Board (CARB)will be an ongoing process as wecontinue to add additional SKUs.The strategy for using the newbuilding and extra production ca-pacity has worked out perfectlyand according to plan. The smoothproduct flow from production,through final QC, packaging, rack-ing, to the daily FedEx trailersdocked at one of 14 bays, gives ourshipping team a good system toeasily meet customer demands. We

are now shipping all single-piece,drop-ship orders within one dayand all large stock orders are goingout in five business days at 100percent!

Two years ago, I was dealingwith a dilemma as sales directorbecause I was literally turningaway new business in order tosatisfy our existing customers.Our production capacity wasclose to 100 percent utilization,yet our R&D people were contin-ually adding more new direct fitparts. We had our hands full justfulfilling our promises. Now, weare on the complete opposite end,and things are great. We are openfor new distributors that are look-ing to add highly profitable prod-uct lines to their mix. On top ofthat, we were able to pass on ourefficiencies to our customersthrough our recent price reduc-tion and have dropped the priceon many “A” selling parts an av-erage of 7 percent.

EXECUTIVE INTERVIEW

AMN Executive Interview With

Henry Hippert, Executive Sales Director, Eastern Catalytic

Henry Hippert

counterman.com 73

With the expansion and increasedbusiness, what is the pace like todayfor Eastern Catalytic, and what areyour expectations for the next sever-al years?

We continue to grow our corebusiness of direct fit aftermarketconverters but have also been ex-panding our horizons with manynew small engine converter/muf-fler assemblies for generators aswell as being awarded a new OEcontract for a complete exhaustsystem. Over the next severalyears, we see some changes com-ing to the U.S. aftermarket for cat-alytic converters as more andmore states either adopt CA regu-lations or drive the EPA to devel-op new regulations that are morein line with increased OE emis-sions legislation.

This change to emissions re-quirements has already been an-nounced and passed into law inNew York and Maine. Thesestates now require that aftermar-ket replacements used on regis-tered vehicles must be catalyticconverters that have been grantedan EO from CARB. Now, this doesnot mean that 100 percent of theNew York vehicle population willneed the new CA converters.Shops will need to check both themodel year and emission type todetermine what can legally be in-stalled. To help clarify the situa-tion, we are providing a completeexplanation on our website. Whilethe work we have put in to getEOs for the needed parts, as wellas producing correct applicationsand cataloging them, has been adaunting task, we now have agreat product line to satisfy notonly the needs of shops in NewYork and Maine, but also to reallyboost our sales in California.

To ensure we are ready to meetthe market demands for the Jan. 1,2014, enforcement date in NewYork, we have committed a signifi-cant amount of finances and have

also created what is, in essence, aCARB committee. This committeeis comprised of a dedicated team ofexperts from Eastern and is beingmanaged by Christopher Schafer,

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third generation of the owners ofEastern.

Do you have plans for any additionalexpansions?

We continue to look at many op-portunities to either vertically inte-grate and bring some processes

in-house through expansion, or lookfor acquisitions within the industry.While our focus is currently onadding applications to both our EPAand CARB product lines, there isstill plenty of growth available inoverseas markets and OE Tier 1 and2 supply.

Eastern Catalytic has played a lead-ership role in the industry with re-spect to technology and regulations.Bring us up to speed on the statesthat now require the use of CARB-compliant catalytic converters andwhere you see this trend heading.

As I noted earlier, so far New Yorkand Maine haveelected to followCARB regulationsfor converter re-placement. Butwe expect otherstates to adoptsimilar regula-

tions. Currently, 14 other states re-quire CARB compliant emissionssystems on new cars only. It is ex-pected that by the 2017 or 2018 mod-el year all states will harmonize withCARB regulations under the newLEV III program. Conceivably, it willonly be a matter of time before they

extend their enforcement to the re-placement market.

Tell us a bit about your customerbase. We understand that you re-cently were awarded some new OEbusiness.

Yes, we have a contract for acomplete exhaust system. Whilewe have been supplying OE manu-facturers in Egypt, China andEcuador for many years, this newcontract will be our first as a Tier 1supplier in the U.S. The company,Elio Motors, and its new vehicle,the Elio, are revolutionary in theautomobile manufacturing seg-ment. They have developed athree-wheeled vehicle that will becapable of 84 mpg and is expectedto cost only $6,800. We are very ex-cited to be a part of this and it willreally elevate our company to anew level. CM

EXECUTIVE INTERVIEW

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While our focus is currently on addingapplications to both our EPA and CARB productlines, there is still plenty of growth available inoverseas markets and OE Tier 1 and 2 supply.


Iwish I had a dollar for every time Ihave said that to myself. The otherfrustrating thing is when I see somegreat idea and I have previously

thought of it. I just did not do anythingabout it. I am sure you have all been inone or both of these situations.

Earlier this week I had such a moment.From time to time, people send productsin hoping that the product will sparksome interest and we’ll publish it in ournew products section. Typically, we runthem if appropriate for your review andthat is the end of it. The market decidesvery quickly if the product has merit. Thatis the beauty of our free market system.Occasionally, I see something that is reallyclever or useful and it grabs my attention.Rarely, will I write about it but there arethose rare instances.

This below is one of them. Last week aproduct called VaccUFlex came in the mail.It seemed fairly mundane to most, but tome, it was sheer genius. As many of youknow, I am an avid car guy and all-aroundtool junkie. You can see from the picturewhat this thing does. If not, you won’t use itanyway. How many times have you lookedat an area and said, “I sure wish I could get

FROM THE PUBLISHERBy S. Scott Shriber

Why Didn’t I Think Of That?

my vacuum in there”? Well ask no more.This thing gets you right under that fridgeand cleans those dust bunnies off the coils.Or, what about between those seats in a con-sole-equipped vehicle? If you work on stuff,your mind already has many more usesthan I can rattle off here.

Just seeing the product should have beenenough, but I needed to talk to the guy whocame up with this, partly because I was jeal-ous, and partly because I am somewhat en-trepreneurial. His name is Joe and as withmost of these kinds of items, he came uponit out of necessity. Joe’s wife fell in love witha new light fixture for the front porch and itturned out to be very difficult to clean. Joetried to use his vacuum but it just didn’t getin there. And there you have it, several itera-tions and his problem and ours, are solved.

I guess my point here is this: the next timeyou are faced with a situation that requiressome ingenuity, stop and ask yourself, can Isolve this? If so, do it and then ask, doesanyone else have this problem? If so, lookinto getting it made. What the heck, it mightjust be the next big thing.

And hurry up! I am probably strugglingwith the same problem and not cleverenough to solve it. CM

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For more information: www.counterman.com

I guess my pointhere is this: thenext time youare faced with asituation thatrequires someingenuity, stopand askyourself, can Isolve this?

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There is a good deal of talk in thenews today, especially in the sportsworld about being suspended. Weare not speaking about automotive

suspensions, but rather major league base-ball; 13 players suspended including thefamous A-Rod.

Getting away from major league baseball,let’s look at our lives as automotive jobbersand counter professionals. We generally feelthat our businesses function well and weservice our commercial customers perfectly99 percent of the time. Yet, we have alwayswondered why they seem only to rememberthat 1 percent of the time where everythingdoes not go as planned. Somehow, I am cer-tain that everything does not go as planned100 percent of the time in any business.

So here we are, our customer Nick(could be any Nick) calls to order a part.He gets his prices, places his order, doesnot ask if the part is in stock or when hecan expect his delivery. Well, the part wasnot in stock and we had to send a driver tothe warehouse to get it to the store to bedispatched to Nick. Does any of this soundfamiliar?

Two hours later, Nick calls to check on hispart, speaks to a second counterperson whoinforms him that the part was picked up atthe warehouse and will be delivered to himshortly. Another half-hour goes by andagain, Nick calls. This time you can hear hisanger and almost see that vein on the sideof his neck sticking out. A third counterper-son places him on hold to inquire about hispart; luckily while on hold, the part arrives.

While this was unfortunate it demon-strates a lack of communication. Mean-while, back to Nick. For the next few daysall went well with Nick, then again a similar

By Allen Markowitz & Allan Gerber

Have You Ever BeenSuspended?

situation occurs. This time Nick is not pa-tient or polite in his response. He loudly an-nounces, “YOU ARE NOW SUSPENDED!”The counterperson replies… what? Nickgoes on, “which part of ‘you are suspended’don’t you understand? I will not call orplace any orders with your company for thenext month. Tell that to my salesman andyour boss.” Nick kept his word; we weresuspended for a month (no calls or purchas-es) and no matter how many attempts weremade by the salesperson or owner, thiswould not be changed.

Nick’s story is not an uncommon one per-haps not using those exact words, “You aresuspended,” to drive home the point. Howmany times does a customer get upset be-cause something does not go exactly asplanned and then you do not hear from himfor a few days? Most times, this is noticeableand should be of concern, especially if youknow that your competition is out there al-ways soliciting your accounts.

Having the parts in stock and letting thecustomer know (communication is key) willalways be our primary function. Prompt de-livery and courteous service with a fairprice is next.

So, what about Nick? How could this sus-pension have been avoided?

It all comes down to communication. IfNick was told that his part had to be pickedup, he might have scheduled a different jobat that time and not had an issue waiting forthe part. Never assume that the customerknows what we have to do to get any partto them. And by the way, how difficult doyou think it was to get Nick’s business backafter our one-month suspension?

We never did; our competition was rightthere. CM

How difficult doyou think it wasto get Nick’sbusiness backafter our one-monthsuspension?

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For more information, go to: www.autobizsolutionsllc.com or e-mail [email protected].

Allen Markowitz and AllanGerber operate Auto BizSolutions, which providestraining, marketing, man-agement and businessconsulting services to boththe automotive jobber andindependent repair shop.

ALLEN & ALLAN

Counterman, September 2013

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Transcript of Counterman, September 2013