Where’s the respect for ‘parts changers’?

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From preventing warpage to replacing

Mike Mavrigian | Editor

The knowledge and skill of technicians who diagnose and service today’s vehicles is critical to the success of any shop. Whether the required component replacement or system assembly is performed by the same specialized technician who performed the diagnosis or by a general service tech, the proper installation of a part is far from simple. So when someone makes a comment such as “he’s just a parts changer,” it makes my blood boil.

Hey, when I was “diagnosed” a year ago that I needed a hip replacement, I certainly didn’t tell my doctor that he was a “parts changer” before he worked on me!

If any part is installed incorrectly, all of the advanced technology and expertise that went into diagnosing the concern will be for naught.

During removal, inspection and installation, specific procedures and often specialized tools or equipment are involved in order to successfully complete the job. The “parts changer” deals with disassembly and reassembly steps that must be performed in a very specific manner. The “parts changer” must determine the best way to access the part(s) involved, which often requires removal of non-related components and/or harnesses. The “parts changer” must be well versed in tool selection, removal and installation techniques, the use of torque wrenches, angle tightening methods, skill in using and reading calipers, micrometers and bore gauges, the knowledge required in reading and interpreting OE specifications, and much more.

Every aspect of service, no matter how “simple” it may seem, requires expert knowledge and skill. In this age of electronic system management, sometimes too little emphasis is placed on the critical role that “wrenching” plays in every aspect of service.

Once the sometimes difficult task of diagnosing an issue is determined, the job isn’t complete. It’s not a matter of, “Well, the hard part is done. Now just replace the part.”

Respect is earned, not given. All “parts changers” who perform any phase of service in the shop have earned the same level of respect.

Tool expo

I recently attended the annual Tool Dealer Expo in Kissimmee, Fla., about a 20-minute drive from the Orlando airport.

The show is very well organized by ISN (Integrated Supply Network). This was a real treat, with the show packed full of the latest automotive and heavy-duty tools and equipment — everything from work gloves to hand and power tools and the latest shop equipment and more (a total candy store of pro shop goodies).

Among the incredible wealth of offerings, I saw a clear and present push of the latest generation of cordless electric tools, including impact wrenches, cut-offs, drills, work lights

Circle 104 on

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