Canadian Technician August 2011

Canadian Mail Sales Product Agreement #40063170 Registration 10833. Return postage guaranteed. Newcom Business Media Inc., 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, ON M9W 5C4

Going Beltless

The future of the automotive drive belt.

ALSO:

Remembering a great mentor A pair of great summer reads about cars The return of The Unknown Mechanic

You don’t have to be the biggest to be the baddest. At less than 5 lbs., the 1/2" drive MG725 delivers a best-in-class 1190 ft. lbs. of bolt breakaway torque. The lightweight magnesium housing provides unparalleled comfort and control. And since it is only one piece, it assures that internal components will stay in precise alignment, making the MG725 as durable as it is powerful.

Never compromise. Contact your Snap-on Franchisee or visit www.snapon.com

Snap-on is a trademark of Snap-on Incorporated. Š Snap-on Incorporated 2011.

contents

Canadian Technician • August 2011 • Vol. 16 No. 6

FEATURES

Going Beltless..................................................18 Automotive belts are commonplace. But in the not-too-distant future, expect this to change.

Survey Says…! ..................................................22 We had questions; you’ve got answers.

COLUMNISTS Management S.O.S. By Kelly Bennett ........................................16 The Unknown Mechanic .............................................................31 It’s Your Turn By Rick Cogbill .......................................................33

38 The Car Side

By Rick Cogbill

DEPARTMENTS Editorial ......................................................................5 Service Notes.............................................................7 Letters ........................................................................8 Out & About .............................................................10 EyeSpy......................................................................10 Reader Rides...........................................................11 From Our Forum......................................................14 Bookmobile .............................................................29 Auto Puzzle ..............................................................36

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AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

3

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EDITORIAL

A New Golden Age of Automobiles

By David Menzies

R

ecently, I had the pleasure of attending a classic car auction.

During the course of the frenzied bidding, I couldn’t help but notice that one of the most oft-repeated refrains from many of the old-timers vying for the vintage Detroit iron up for grabs was, “They sure don’t make ’em like they used to.”

In fact, I struck up a conversation with a 70-something gent admiring a ’57 Cadillac Coupe de Ville. He spoke of how rock solid the Caddy is – “Look at all that steel inside and out,” he remarked, “tough as a tank – not like all that plastic crap they make today.”

Granted, beauty will forever be in the eye of the beholder (and the ’57 De Ville is a stunner.) Yet, although I didn’t have the heart to correct the Cadillac fan, I’d take a modern-day vehicle composed of “plastic crap” as my daily driver any day.

Here’s why. Next time you’re on YouTube, check out an incredible 2009 video from the Insurance Highway Safety Institute (type “Bel Air crash test” into the search engine.)

The IIHS celebrated its 50th anniversary two years ago and it wanted to demonstrate how far passenger protection has come in the last half century. To do so, the IIHS staged a head-on collision between a 1959 Chevrolet Bel Air (perhaps best described as a “land yacht”) and a 2009 Chevy Malibu mid-size sedan. At first blush, it looks as though this is going to be a mismatch in the Bel Air’s favour.

But appearances can be deceiving. In fact, the footage proves downright shocking in that it’s the Malibu that makes mincemeat of the Bel Air. Upon impact, the Bel Air’s windshield dislodges, the driver’s door flies open, and the front

half of the car is obliterated.

Meanwhile, the Bel Air’s crash test dummy is tossed around like a ragdoll given that this vintage Chevy has no seatbelts or airbags. The dummy’s head strikes the steering wheel rim and hub and then the roof, before bouncing off the unpadded metal instrument panel. Ouch!

The ’09 Malibu, on the other hand, suffers significantly less damage. Thanks to seatbelts and a deployed airbag, the driver remains in the proper seating position.

And the car, thanks to advancements in crumple zone technology, is obviously designed to “take a hit.”

If human beings rather than crash test dummies had been driving these cars, the Malibu occupant would’ve suffered some minor cuts and bruises and perhaps an injured foot. But the Bel Air driver would’ve suffered very serious injuries to the neck, chest and both legs. In fact, he might not have survived the collision.

Performance-wise, today’s cars also excel. I think back to a story in the 50th Anniversary issue of Motor Trend magazine (published in 2001) entitled, “How Far We’ve Come.” The premise: a 1999

Honda Odyssey was pitted on the race track against such classic speed demons as a ’58 Corvette, a ’57 Maserati 2000 GT and a ’58 Porsche Speedster. The Odyssey beat every car in the one-mile test except the ’58 Ford Thunderbird.

Amazing but true, a de rigueur modern minivan – the unofficial vehicle of suburban soccer moms – was able to hold its own against some of the most iconic sports cars of the 1950s.

Meanwhile, the creature-comfort technology now found in today’s modern cars was once the stuff of science fiction novels decades ago. Unquestionably, we’re living in a golden age of automobiles in terms of power, performance, amenities, and safety.

So take a bow for keeping these new and improved (albeit increasingly complex) chariots on the road. After all, while today’s cars are vastly better, they’re also far more challenging when it comes to repairs.

Oh, and the next time you hear someone say, “They don’t make ’em like they used to” kindly respond by saying: “… yes, and thank goodness for that!”

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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You don’t repair just one vehicle make.

We don’t make parts for just one either.

IT’S TIME TO RETHINK WHAT DELPHI CAN DELIVER

Here’s just a glimpse. Ford. Fuel pumps. Nissan. Oxygen sensors. Toyota.

Ignition coils. Mini-Cooper. Compressors. Audi. Condensers. General Motors.

Radiators. Hyundai. MAF Sensors. Volkswagen. Common rail systems. Honda.

Fuel pressure regulators. Where we came from is only a part of where we’re going.

Delphi OE DNA. It’s inside every one of our parts.

F U E L MANAGEMENT

delphi.com/am

ENGINE MANAGEMENT

HEAT I N G & C O O L I NG

©2011 Delphi Automotive Systems, LLC. All rights reserved.

DI E S E L

SERVICE NOTES

VOLUME 16

Combatting YouTube repairs

NUMBER 6

A DIYer might be able to swap out a part… but is it the right part? That’s where diagnosis comes in.

451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ont. M9W 5C4

By Allan Janssen EDITOR David Menzies david@canadiantechnician.ca (416) 614-5824 EDITORIAL DIRECTOR Allan Janssen ajanssen@newcom.ca (416) 614-5814 PUBLISHER Martyn Johns mjohns@newcom.ca (416) 614-5826 CIRCULATION MANAGER Lilianna Kantor lkantor@newcom.ca (416) 614-5815 DESIGN & PRODUCTION Tim Norton production@canadiantechnician.ca (416) 614-5810 DIRECTOR, QUEBEC OPERATIONS Joe Glionna PRESIDENT Jim Glionna PUBLISHED BY Newcom Business Media 451 Attwell Drive Toronto, Ont. M9W 5C4 Canadian Technician is published monthly except for January and July by Newcom Business Media, Inc., 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ont. M9W 5C4. The magazine serves the Canadian automotive repair and service industry. Subscriptions are free to those who meet the criteria. For others: single copy price: $5.30; one-year subscription in Canada: $42.00 ($40.00 plus applicable taxes); one-year subscription in U.S.: US$60; one-year subscription in all other countries: US$90. Copyright 2011. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication august not be reproduced by any means, in whole or in part, without prior written consent of the publisher. The advertiser agrees to protect the publisher against legal action based upon libelous or inaccurate statements, unauthorized use of photographs, or other material in connection with advertisements placed in Canadian Technician. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising which in his opinion is misleading, scatological, or in poor taste. Postmaster: Send address changes to Canadian Technician, 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ont., M9W 5C4. Printed in Canada. Second class mail: Postage paid at Toronto. Canadian Publications Mail Sales Agreement #40063170. ISSN 1710-7644.

We acknowledge the financial support of the Government of Canada through the Canada Periodical Fund (CPF) for our publishing activities.

Kenneth R. Wilson Award Winner Member

Canadian Business Press

“Belting One On”

by Wayne Moore Phone (905) 632-8770

I

t’s amazing how different siblings can be.

I have two brothers and two sisters, and while we share many traits, in some ways we couldn’t be more different.

Take auto repair, for example.

It was noted at a family gathering recently that, faced with a small but annoying problem under the hood of my car, I would take it immediately to a repair shop, explain the problem, demand premium parts, and then read a magazine until the repair was complete.

My sister Margot would do some research online, watch a couple of DIY videos, and then get intimidated. She too would end up at a repair shop but would carefully try to contain costs and she would ask a lot of questions.

My sister Renee would watch the videos, buy parts at a retail store, and then execute a meticulous repair. She did as much with a microwave oven once, though we all scolded her for taking her life into her own hands by doing so.

My brother Luke would not watch the videos. He would play around with the inner workings of his car until everything was made clear.Then he would buy used parts at a scrap yard and install them using sometimes inappropriate tools and brute strength. But it would work.

My brother Ivan would repair the old part with an arc welding machine or fashion new ones from bits of scrap metal and epoxy. They would work better than the originals, and would correct other design issues as well.

These are gross exaggerations, of course. All of us regularly go to repair shops. But it is instructive to think about what radically different customers we all are, with our varying degrees of mechanical skill, and our different

approaches to spending (or saving) money.

Furthermore, it is interesting to see how popular DIY videos are. The one that Margot brought to my attention, 1A Auto, has its own channel on YouTube with hundreds of repair videos covering everything from belt replacements to switching out the entire engine. And the video she watched about a broken window regulator had been watched by more than 69,000 people!

Consider this comment from a viewer that goes by the name CowLady1950: “I am 61 years old and not a mechanic and I replaced the window regulator all by myself. Saved a bunch. Thanks.” And there are hundreds of comments just like that!

On the surface, a channel like 1A Auto might be a little scary to those who sell DIFM repairs. In this industry, we’re so used to saying there are precious few true DIY jobs left on a modern automobile…but clearly there are plenty of people still willing to try!

But listen to this. The repair that Margot was tempted to try herself would not have fixed the problem. When she brought it to the repair shop, she learned that the fault was not in the window regulator at all, but with something closely related. Her words to me: “Those videos look great, but what they’re missing is the diagnostics.”

Exactly! And you can’t do that in a video or a manual.

What seems like a money saver is actually a money waster if it doesn’t address the true problem. And that’s the message you want to convey to your customers.

Selling diagnosis is not always easy. But real-life examples of how diagnosis by a trained professional can save customers big bucks should be communicated to everyone who comes into your shop.

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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LETTERS

MORE W5 FEEDBACK Regarding the W5 report, “The Mechanic”: I know many honest and hard-working technicians and shop owners.To you people, please keep up the good work. You work in a tough industry; keep the faith, brothers and sisters!

Many of the facilities evaluated in the W5 report earned failing grades. The typical scenario was one of unnecessary repairs and maintenance being suggested to the undercover reporter. It must’ve been very uncomfortable for these shops to have a CTV camera crew later roll in, making it seem as if the shops house petty criminals.

Still, I have some advice for all involved. Shop owners and operators must figure out how to run an honest business. Your operation should be built around customer retention. Come up with reasonable maintenance schedule suggestions. Keep in contact with your customers via phone, email, or even snail mail.

Your lack of business acumen and foresight should not lead to your technicians being faced with the reality of putting food on the table but without the means to make it happen.

The “starving technician” strategy effectively turns honest people into desperate people, with foreseeable consequences.

If you go for the “wallet flush,” you may as well wave goodbye to that customer. And it’s much easier keeping existing customers than finding new ones. For those of you who pointed W5 to the head office, nice deflection. If I worked in head office, I think your franchise would be in jeopardy. Many in the automotive business have earned a poor reputation.Take the necessary steps to correct this condition.

Technicians: find an employer with integrity. If the owner doesn’t have a good business plan in place for looking after customers, you’ll be painted by the same brush. Ask difficult questions of prospective employers before you sign on the dotted line. I sure don’t like being lumped in with automotive bandits – and neither do most technicians.

As a technician, you are essentially running a small business.

If you take pride in your work, and want to build some customer loyalty, put your business card in the vehicle (that your forward-thinking boss has provided for you, of course) when the job’s finished. This way, when the customer returns, he’ll likely ask for you.This would work out nicely in the long 8

CANADIAN TECHNICIAN AUGUST 2011

run, no? If your employer has a plan in place for customer retention, then you shouldn’t need to recommend and charge for unnecessary work.

When the vehicle comes in, have a good look at it. Point out obvious flaws, and suggest maintenance and repairs that would be beneficial. No vehicle owner wants to experience unexpected failure at an inopportune moment, but that doesn’t mean you should be replacing serviceable parts with new ones “just in case”.

Customers: no one likes to spend money on auto repairs, but maintenance and repairs are part of the cost of vehicle ownership. Accept it. But also take the time to find someone trustworthy. It is possible, and there are organizations such as the Canadian Automobile Association and the Better Business Bureau that can help guide you.

Some of the responsibility of avoiding being ripped-off rests with you. Heed the warning signs. For example, if the person working on your car isn’t willing to speak with you directly, consider this to be a troublesome sign (although this doesn’t mean you have the option of standing beside the technician while your car is being repaired.)

Todd Green Calgary

THANKS FROM SHAD’S On behalf of the Board of Directors of Shad’s R & R, we’d like to thank Canadian Technician for your continued support of our event.

The Shad’s ad placements create the desired awareness in the aftermarket for our annual event. As you are aware, we made a record donation of $175,000 to MDC, bringing our cumulative donation over the past 38 years to $3,841,700.

Thanks again for all of your support as it is greatly appreciated.

John Vanstone Chairman Shad’s R & R Mississauga, Ont.

How to reach us We love to hear from our readers. Please send along your opinions to editor David Menzies at david@canadiantechnician.ca.

Now, We Do It All!

ValvolineÂŽ now offers a full line of Valvoline Professional Series automotive service chemicals. With Valvoline Professional Series, you get a comprehensive line of professional-grade products, services and solutions all backed by industry leading marketing programs.

Valvoline Professional Series delivers maximum value to consumers and helps grow your bottom line. Š, 2010, Ashland Canada Corp.

SUPPLIER NEWS Carquest Names Supplier of the Year At its 2011 Supplier Summit, Carquest Auto Parts named East Penn Manufacturing as its 2010 Supplier of the Year. The annual award was recently renamed the Larry McCurdy Award, in memory of Larry McCurdy, an industry leader and former board member of General Parts International, Inc. McCurdy passed away last year. Carquest’s Supplier of the Year Award was created in 1992 to recognize a supplier’s contribution to Carquest’s success through quality products and outstanding marketing support.

Moog expands product lineup Federal-Mogul’s Moog steering and suspension product line has been expanded to include nearly 60 additional high-volume replacement control arms, sway bar links, ball joints, tie rod ends, coil springs, and other components for latemodel European, Asian and domestic applications. The latest premium-quality MOOG parts include control arms for millions of Jeep (Cherokee, Grand Cherokee and Wrangler), Dodge truck (Ram 2500 and 3500) and Dodge/Plymouth (Neon) applications; sway bar link kits for nearly 250,000 Dodge Dakota and Mitsubishi Raider models; five inner tie rod end designs for nearly 500,000 late-model Infiniti models; outer tie rods for more than 200,000 Mazda CX-7 and CX-9 models; and 23 constant-rate coil springs for a broad range of Chrysler, Hyundai, Kia, Mazda and Nissan applications.

PartSource appoints Whyte as AVP of Commercial Sales PartSource has appointed Bruce Whyte to Associate Vice-President of Commercial Sales. The company notes Whyte’s appointment is part of PartSource’s commitment to build and grow its commercial parts business. Whyte was previously with Federal Mogul, where he spent the past 19 years in progressively senior sales leadership roles. He has held various positions across Canada, most recently managing the Ontario sales team as well as key national accounts, including Canadian Tire.

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN AUGUST 2011

OUT & ABOUT

ACDelco launches new loyalty program for independent shops ACDelco Canada has launched a new loyalty program that promises members discounts on training, affiliation with a global brand, and unlimited access to online training and technical assistance.

Marcus Lyon, marketing manager for ACDelco, says the new ACDelco Automotive Care Experts (ACE) program “is the perfect fit for an independent service centre [that] needs to get their techs properly trained at a reasonable cost.”

The ACE program offers a series of membership benefits including ACDelco’s web-based training courses as well as instructor-led training discounts.

Members also qualify to earn ACDelco ACE Reward points every month, as well as Moneris discounts.

Members also receive marketing support in the way of POS materials and branded merchandise.

Plus, members receive a 2% rebate on all purchases of more than $1,000 per month; rebates can be redeemed at a selection of retail stores.

Lyon notes that ACDelco’s training websites offer hundreds of technical

courses including new hybrid training and specialty training.

ACE membership fees are $25 per month. There’s also a sign-up fee that Lyon declined to reveal, although he says it is “competitive” with other loyalty programs in the market.”

As well, Lyon notes the major difference between the new ACE program and the company’s existing Total Service Support (TSS) program is that the new loyalty initiative is “more of a streamlined, entry level program.”

While Lyon says he doesn’t have a forecast in terms of how many shops will sign up to join ACE, he notes that TSS – which has been operating for more than a decade under various names – currently has more than 1,300 members. Choosing which program to join “boils down to the comfort level with both programs,” he says.

The ACDelco ACE program is being offered through participating ACDelco Distributors. Independent shops can register online via ACDelco’s TechConnect website (www.Tech ConnectCanada.com).

EYE Assault on battery SPY

“My shop foreman took this photo of a 2005 Nissan Armada that was recently in for some recall work,” writes Ryan Diachok of Gord Scott Nissan in Red Deer, Alta. “When the advisor questioned the customer to update the service history and see if he could sell any service, the customer replied that ‘they do it themselves.’

We cautioned them on the condition of their battery and suggested that we install the correct one for proper fitment. Even though the Optima brand batteries are great against vibration and shock, we recommend that they be fastened and secured to prevent damage to the components in the engine compartments.”

Have an interesting picture to share? Please send it along to EyeSpy, c/o Canadian Technician, 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ont. M9W 5C4.

Or email your high-resolution image to the editor: david@canadiantechnician.ca

Is this the least safe vehicle on the road?

Are certain Jeep Grand Cherokees unsafe?

The Center for Auto Safety (CAS) thinks so – at least when it come to those Grand Cherokee models made from 1993 to 2004.

In fact, CAS is demanding that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration force the Chrysler

Group to recall these Grand Cherokees, claiming that these Jeeps (numbering about 2.2 million units) pose a significantly high risk of fire in the event of a rear-end collision.

The non-profit safety advocacy group says it conducted three tests on the older generation Jeep Grand Cherokee which indicated the vehicle is vulnerable to bursting into flames if hit from the rear.

Tests found the gas tank in the car, which is housed behind the rear axle, is

Jeep Thrills Paul Marinus, a technician at Cory’s Engine Repair in Fox Creek, Alta., sent in this photo of his 1983 Jeep CJ7 – a ground-up restoration project with lots of goodies inside and in the engine bay. It’s powered by a 350 small block with Weiand blower. It turned 400 hp and 430 ft.-lb. of torque on a racing dyno. The project took 10 years to complete.

vulnerable in a collision, and could leak in the event of a rear-end crash.

“You can have the tank itself rupture, you can have the filler hoses pull off as they did in some of our crash tests, and it’s just a terrible design,” Clarence Ditlow, executive director of the group, told ABC News.

According to the CAS, there have been 64 deaths due to accidents in these vehicles where fire was “the most harmful factor”.

For its part, Chrysler says these vehicles were submitted to tests more than three times as extreme as the government standard. Chrysler also points out that the 1993-2004 Grand Cherokees meet or exceed all federal requirements, insisting that the popular SUVs are no more dangerous than any other vehicle of its type.

However, Chrysler did revise the location of the fuel tank in the 2005 Jeep Grand Cherokee, moving it from behind the rear differential to in front of it, thus protecting it a bit more in the event of a rear end collision. But Chrysler notes this move was made not due to safety concerns but rather to increase cargo space.

READER

RIDES

You can see more Reader Rides on our website at www.canadiantechnician.ca.

And if you have a photo of a hot or unusual ride, feel free to send it in. We’ll publish it up for all to enjoy! Send a pic of your ride to david@canadiantechnician.ca.

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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OUT & ABOUT

Quaker State launches warranty, cash-back program for loyal customers When it comes to oil changes, it now pays to use Quaker State. Literally.

Quaker State has launched a loyalty program that offers motorists a limited warranty and a cash-back rebate offer if Quaker State oil is used exclusively over the lifespan of the vehicle.

The details: drivers with vehicles manufactured within the last six years with 125,000 kilometers or less are eligible to register for the Quaker State Lubrication Limited Warranty. By using Quaker State oil exclusively during the life of the vehicle, motorists receive a warranty that will cover 15 engine parts against lubrication caused failure.

The Quaker State Lubrication Limited Warranty takes effect six months after the first eligible purchase of Quaker State Texas tea.

In addition to the warranty protection, the owner can also qualify for a monetary reward under the Quaker State Cash Back Bonus program. If the vehicle racks up 400,000 km in mileage, the program rewards consumers with the trade-in value of their vehicle (as listed in “Good” condition according to the Kelley Blue Book) up to $3,000.

To be eligible for the cash-back program, consumers must use a Quaker State motor oil product starting no later than when their vehicle reaches 160,000 km.

The warranty requires that a consumer service his vehicle’s engine with Quaker State motor oil in the service classification, viscosity grade, and interval that is appropriate for their vehicle (as recommended by the vehicle manufacturer.) The warranty is transferrable, but all receipts must be retained.

Also, consumers enrolled in the program must follow all scheduled engine maintenance recommendations by the vehicle manufacturer, including replacement of air filter and air cleaner element and maintenance of the emission control system.

“When you look at where the economy is, we want the consumer to get the most out of their vehicles,” says Chris Hayek, Quaker State global

brand manager.

Hayek notes there are a growing number of drivers – especially younger drivers – who have absolutely “no preference when it comes to motor oil.”

Quaker State is hoping to change the prevailing “oil is oil” mindset.

As well, Hayek notes vehicles exceeding 400,000 km on the odometer aren’t as rare as one might think. Citing data from DesRosiers Automotive Consultants, there are about 825,000 vehicles in Canada that have racked up more than 400,000 klicks.

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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FROM OUR FORUM Recent postings on www.canadiantechnician.ca/forum

W5 segment: Balanced reporting or hatchet job?

In April, CTV’s W5 aired its expose on the automotive aftermarket – it was not pretty. Here’s how the discussion unfolded.

Apparently it’s automotive aftermarket hunting season again.

CTV’s W5 teamed up with the Automobile Protection Association for another undercover expose regarding the honesty and competency of those working in auto shops. The skinny: a car equipped with a hidden camera is brought to several shops with an easy to spot problem (a loose battery cable.)

W5 then goes on to document the results. And after viewing the segment, what do you think: Is the W5 report fair and balanced investigative journalism? Or is it a hatchet job?

David

Most of the work performed, while some being questionable, was a recommendation with the consumer ultimately making the decision to go forward. Some of the work performed due to the loose battery cable may have been the shop not looking far enough into the problem and just assuming (starter replacement) and another just due to the flat-rate pay system... how much could the tech charge them to tighten the cable when it may have been his only job that morning and after all she did tell the writer that it would not start 2 or 3 times. The amount they loosened that cable the vehicle should not have started at all. Maybe they should do a story on lawyers and have them justify their ridiculous fees and disbursements or maybe get the guy who installs laminate flooring to justify why he charges $60+/hr?

Swede

I’m not too sure how they can openly tarnish a company’s image/reputation and not get sued. A lot of shops are coming off their slow season and some shop owners are trying to get every extra penny they

14

CANADIAN TECHNICIAN AUGUST 2011

can – this may translate into improper communication with car owners.What happens at this shop whenever an “expose” is in the news is a tightening of procedure. Basically we go into overdrive with our communications with our clients. First thing is the news item is downloaded to my terminal, that way if it comes up in conversation we can play it and comment on it.

Secondly, we make sure to explain to our clients what is being charged on their repair orders. And lastly, if a new client-to-be calls for car repairs, we are very careful in the words we choose when describing the work being done, and the expected outcome.

ALLNUTS^no bolts

I think it would also be interesting to see the excess footage that was left on CTV’s cutting room floor.

For example, how much of the repair work was “suggested” as opposed to “mandated”? To see the hours of raw footage that did not make it to air might prove to be fascinating.

David

It’s funny, they had their “expert” pre-checking and rigging the cars but chances are, if he had just been a tech at one of the shops he would have been another rip-off mechanic. Sure, there are places that overcharge and do unnecessary repairs and they should be called on it. But there are many places that are simply trying to keep up with the constantly changing technology and tooling. And believe it or not, training and new equipment aren’t free ($1,300 Solus Pro update last week) so they have no choice but to charge accordingly and, yes, up-sell when the opportunity is there and valid. caravanman

It would be very interesting to see the footage that wound up on the cutting room floor. Trying to be as unbiased as possible here, I think the key word in all of these instances is “maintenance”. The idea behind maintenance is to do the work BEFORE the component fails. The aftermarket has been publishing material for decades educating the consumer about service intervals, scheduled maintenance, and when various items should be inspected and/or replaced. And for that the consumer is thankful. But when a shop recommends said maintenance and it’s deemed unnecessary by an assumed professional, all of a sudden the shop is ripping-off people.

Gadgetman

Ratings are to news shows as flat rate is to auto repair.

TechY

I would like to see the footage held back. They make the comment that the battery was tested on these vehicles prior to bringing them to the shops – but we don’t see that. Was this vehicle towed to the shops because of a no-start or driven to the shops? If it was driven for a length of time with a loose battery terminal, was the battery charged prior to failing the tests? We as an industry and the general public are missing a lot of information.

MaritimeStorm

Join the discussion! Log on to www.canadiantechnician.ca/forum and see what everyone’s talking about.

If you’ve got an opinion to share, we want to hear it.

Š 2009, Ashland Canada Corp. *Source: Thomas Penway Research Poll of ASE Mechanics in the United States

www.v a lv o li n e . c o m

Only one person works on his car.

And only one oil works in his engine.

More ASE-certified top mechanics use Valvoline in their own cars.* <TRWP]XRb RP] dbT P]h ^X[ cWTh fP]c CWTh RW^^bT cWT ^]T fXcW P _a^eT] aT_dcPcX^] U^a `dP[Xch _a^cTRcX^] P]S P WXbc^ah ^U X]]^ePcX^] EP[e^[X]T

100 YEARS UNDER THE HOOD.

TM

MANAGEMENT S.O.S. IN THIS SERIES OF FICTIONAL LETTERS FROM A NEW SHOP OWNER TO HIS FORMER BOSS, MANAGEMENT TRAINER KELLY BENNETT DISCUSSES BASIC BUSINESS PRINCIPLES THAT APPLY TO THE AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR INDUSTRY.

REMEMBERING MY BEST MENTOR EVER FINDING A GOOD MENTOR CAN HELP BOLSTER YOUR BUSINESS – AND ENRICH YOUR LIFE.

By Kelly Bennett

DEAR KELLY: This past week I’ve been reflecting on how far my business has come in the past five years. When we celebrated our fifth anniversary, many of our customers congratulated us on how the business has evolved and grown. This morning I passed by our old building – a glorified hut – and wondered how we ever operated there.

As I drove up to our new facility this morning, I felt proud. Seeing the police cars and ambulances outside that we’re entrusted to service was yet another indicator of our success. I pulled out the binder with all of the emails we have sent back and forth. The first one really jumped out. I asked you, “WHY AM I HERE?” I now know why and I’m glad I am!

Thanks again for your help along the way.

-Erol

DEAR EROL: This has been a huge time of reflection for me, too. A few months ago, I learned that my first mentor – and cherished friend – Bob O’Connor had been diagnosed with terminal cancer.

Bob was an icon in our industry for more than 30 years. In fact, my first workshops were put on by Bob in Canada back in the early ’90s.

I recall so clearly going to that first Technician Time Management workshop, hoping I’d pick up a few ideas on how to improve my business.

16

CANADIAN TECHNICIAN AUGUST 2011

What I wasn’t mentally prepared for was listening to Bob. As I feverishly took notes, I said to myself, “Wow – I thought I knew a lot about this business.” But I came to realize I was still a rookie.

At the end of that first two-day workshop, Bob asked the group a question: “If you were to sum up what you’ve learned during the past two days in one word, what would it be?”

My answer, which I said aloud, was: “Humbled!”

Oh, I knew a lot about fixing cars and I was proud of my abilities. In fact, I was convinced I was the country’s best technician. I know confidence is important, and we should never be too hard on ourselves (as we often are.) However, I realized, for the first time, that my confidence had morphed into arrogance.

I realized that day that while I had honed my skills as a superb technician, I wasn’t such a superb manager. I began pondering how I needed to focus, more than ever before, on how to become a better manager.

But how could I connect the dots?

Where do we learn the necessary skills?

While it wasn’t Bob’s intention, I left the session feeling somewhat stupid. In fact, I was ignorant about my own stupidity!

Over the years, I got to know Bob

when I needed to feel energized thanks to the wind evaporating from my sails.

What’s more, who can we turn to for inspiration? Sometimes, it’s a spouse or a partner or even our kids and parents.

Erol, every email, letter or phone call from you inspires me. In our management groups, I’m inspired at every meeting from the facilitator and other members, and this inspiration has made me a voracious reader.

I’m currently reading Onward by Howard Schultz, the returning CEO of Starbucks. The book tells the story about the rise and near fall of the coffee leviathan that has more than $10 billion in annual revenue with more than 200,000 partners (Starbucks-speak for employees.). I often find myself thinking,

back and ponder, I now realize that one of the driving forces for me was motivation. I never recall feeling unmotivated. In fact, I think most selfemployed people are, in many ways, too motivated. We become workaholics – and even brag about this affliction.

I now realize there were countless times that I had lost my inspiration.

There were definitely several occasions

“Hey, if this guy can turnaround a company that massive (and end up having the best financial year in four decades), what can a small shop owner do with his business?” One thing becomes clear in Onward: Schultz couldn’t do it by himself.

Rather, he sought out mentors – and he learned from them.

Back to Bob: of all of the mentors I’ve drawn inspiration from, Bob was

Larry Dickison

really well. He became my mentor and he taught me something that really changed my career and my life. He taught me that there are many mentors, not just one. It’s true. There are mentors all around us. I’ve had several employees over the years that had education and experience in areas that I was lacking in.

In those areas, they became my mentors.

I’ve found mentors in dozens of books I’ve read over the years. I’ve learned from mentors who have written articles about our industry and others. I’ve attended workshops with some amazingly talented people. I’ve watched dozens of movies portraying stories of incredibly inspiring people.

Being self-employed for 24 years, it’s been an interesting journey. As I look

the best. Along with thousands of other shop owners, I took dozens of training sessions with his company. Hundreds of us joined his management groups and we wouldn’t be where we are today without his training and coaching.

I had an amazing opportunity recently. I flew to Seattle to spend an unforgettable week with Bob, his wife Linda, and their family. Yes, I was there cooking and helping to take care of Bob while encouraging Linda and the kids. I also got to sit at the bedside of my mentor/friend one last time. We talked, we laughed, we cried. I learned firsthand of Bob’s journey from being a gas jockey (or as Bob would say, “Refueling Engineer”) to working as a technician and manager in dealerships to owning his own shop before moving on to consulting, training, and coaching.

Bob passed away recently. He was in his home, overlooking the lake behind his house, with his family at his side.The night before his passing, his daughter, Carmen, asked if I’d be willing to speak at his celebration of life service. She wanted to let him know that evening, and words failed me when I tried to say how honoured I felt.

Life isn’t always a bowl of cherries.

Bob lived a great life and I suspect he never endured a boring moment. He lived life grandly and he leaves behind a great legacy. He taught. He coached. He inspired. His knowledge is still being shared with thousands of shop owners throughout North America. Indeed, what more could we want when it’s our turn for the final curtain to know that we made a huge difference and impacted the lives of countless people?

As always Erol, I am only an email away.

Kelly Kelly Bennett is a certified management trainer and has been coaching automotive repair shop owners since 1990.

You can reach him at kellythecoach@aol.com.

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

17

Going Beltless Automotive belts are commonplace.

But in the not-too-distant future, expect this to change. By Jeff Taylor

I

f someone were to ask the question, “What is the future of the automotive belt?” you might be surprised by my answer. Indeed, I see dependency on the automotive drive belt beginning to fade. And although belts are going to be around for some time (albeit in a diminished capacity), there will likely come a point wherein the belt will take its place upon the scrapheap of obsolescence. In the meantime, let’s take a look at the current situation.

Most of us have witnessed the transition from the simple V-belt to the serpentine drive belt system that was first used back on the 1979 Ford Mustang. The serpentine belt was invented by the Gates Rubber Company (now the Gates Corporation) and has become the mainstay to drive the needed accessories that a modern day car or truck needs. The serpentine belt runs the AC and power steering. As well, it replenishes the charge in the battery and pumps air into the exhaust to clean up emissions. It supplies a vacuum for controls and brakes; it spins the water pump; and it runs a cooling fan.

Nevertheless, its days are numbered.

18

CANADIAN TECHNICIAN AUGUST 2011

The first car that was mass-produced without any drive belt system has already been in production for more than two years.The future is here in the form of the 2010 Toyota Prius, a car that doesn’t have a single belt. And the reason is simple: belts are a waste of mechanical energy that the ICE (internal combustion engine) has to produce. The drive belt system in a modern automobile loses about 13% of the energy that is put into it via mechanical loss (friction). That’s excessive. Indeed, as most automotive manufacturers are striving for better fuel economy/fewer emissions, the drive belt system is now in the crosshairs. Although the drive belt won’t disappear overnight, the way it’s used and manufactured –and how we decide when service is due – is going to change.

I believe we’re going to see a slow transition to a beltless engine or a very efficient belt drive system in the future – in fact, such a transition is already underway. One of the first things that became beltless was the cooling fan as the use of an electric cooling fan reduces demands on the engine. Even with a clutch, a mechanical cooling fan draws a lot of power from the ICE as it’s constantly spinning. The use of an electric cooling fan means the PCM can

turn it on and off when needed, meaning there’s little wasted energy. Making a cooling fan beltless was easy. So a move was made to the AIR (air injection reaction) pump, making it electric. It could be mounted anywhere under the hood or on the engine, and as it’s only used during certain engine operating conditions, it doesn’t need to be driven all the time. The PCM can now decide when and for how long the AIR pump needs to run and the ICE does not have to incur any parasitic losses in driving

something that isn’t being used.

It may not seem like much, but anything that’s being turned by the ICE is using energy and producing emissions – which is why the engineers didn’t stop at the AIR pump. The next area engineers started looking at seriously was the power steering pump.

A drive belt has been turning the power steering pump since it was first used in an automotive application back in 1951 on the Chrysler Imperial. The engineers were not concerned about

fuel economy or what was coming out the tailpipe back in the early ’50s, although they were concerned about driver comfort. Now engineers are concerned about fuel economy and tailpipe emissions – but the consumer isn’t about to give up power steering.

To achieve the best of both worlds, electric power steering was developed.

The idea of electric power steering has been around in some form since 1965 when Ford dabbled with the idea (but only with an experimental fleet.) Ford used an electric-hydraulic power steering system and a quick ratio steering box, and the idea was that it was only to be used if the main pump failed or the engine stalled.

In the early ’90s, Toyota used an electric-hydraulic power steering setup in its MR2. Being a mid/rear engine sports car, Toyota didn’t want to run power steering lines to the rack at the front of the vehicle. The electric-hydraulic system is not beltdriven, so there’s no parasitic loss on the ICE created by the driving of a power steering pump (it’s electric.)

The electrical load is absorbed by the alternator.

Engineers still thought they could get more out of this system and indeed they did so by removing the hydraulic parts. The next step was to full electric power assist. By doing so, the average fuel economy for an automobile increased 1.5-2% and at a very minimal cost to the consumer. Electric power steering (EPA) was first used in the Acura NSX in 1990. Today, most manufacturers see the benefits of EPA and have incorporated this system in many of their current models. EPA increases fuel economy and lowers emissions by not having to be driven by the ICE. But it also eliminates brackets, pumps, lines, fluid reservoirs, coolers, and hydraulic controls, thereby reducing overall weight. And a lighter vehicle means a more fuel-efficient

vehicle with lower emissions.

Manufacturers aren’t just concerned about the carbon footprint of their vehicles once they’re on the road.

They’re also paying attention to the manufacturing processes. The use of an EPA streamlines manufacturing and lowers service costs. A hidden benefit to the incorporation of an EPA system on a car/truck is that it can be easily tied into the vehicle’s stability control system. Most full hybrids use an electric

Cracks used to be commonplace with old EPDM serpentine belts before the changeover was made to the newer Neoprene formula.

water pump. They can be fully controlled by the PCM and keep the ICE at a very precise temperature for better efficiency. The use of a full blown electric water pump on a standard nonhybrid application will lead to a substantial increase in efficiency. A PCM controlled electric water pump can use up to 80% less energy than a conventional belt/chain-driven one. As the speed of a belt-driven water pump is engine speed dependent, precise engine temperature control is very difficult. If the PCM can control the engine’s temperature, fuel economy, emissions, and passenger comfort are all improved.

So what’s next? If the vehicle is a full hybrid, there may not be the need for any belts at all as everything can be driven electrically. But if it is a mild hybrid incorporating idle stop, then it may use the drive belt system to improve fuel economy. Using a starter generator idle stop system can lower AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

19

fuel consumption 5% to 10% in stop and go driving. All this is accomplished through the use of a unique drive belt system that uses a specially-designed aramid core multiple V-ribbed belt and

A cross-section of a new serpentine belt.

special tensioner setup.

We have also seen the adoption of the stretchy belt. This design uses a special stretch-to-fit belt that has no tensioner. A no tensioner assembly means a couple of things: lighter weight and the elimination of a spinning pulley.

Although it may not seem like much if you remove these parts and rotating assembly, if it is carried out on thousands of vehicles, the resulting improved fuel economy/emissions reductions makes it worthwhile to pursue.

The stretchy belt also keeps the proper tension on the belt over its entire life, and proper tension will result in a more efficient drive. As technicians, we have seen the transition from EPDMbased belt formulations to the use of neoprene-based belts, which effectively double the average lifespan of a belt from 80,000 km to 160,000 km.

To improve the efficiency of the drive belt system and further reduce friction, manufacturers are changing the compounds used to make belts. Making the belt more flexible can lead to a dramatic increase in efficiency (up to 10% claimed by some manufacturers).

As well, coatings on the belt’s surface can increase grip and the use of different fabrics that are impregnated with special materials can also be used. The goal is simple: reduce the frictional loses that the belt drive system incurs.

Belt manufacturers are even working on lifetime belts (Continental already has a lifetime timing belt) so don’t be

surprised to see this trend become mainstream in the not-too-distant future.

Nothing stands still in the automotive industry. Research and development are the norm, and engineers are always looking to improve the status quo. With new regulations affecting mileage (39 mpg or 6L/100km for cars and 30 mpg or 7.8L/100km for trucks by 2016),

manufacturers are going to be looking even harder to increase fuel economy.

The drive belt system is getting a lot of attention given that it is a system that can be – and likely will be – totally eliminated.

Jeff Taylor is a technician at Eccles Auto Service in Dundas, Ont.

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To learn more about the SmartLift, call 800-640-5438 or visit rotarylift.com/trio/ct *Based on ALI’s reporting of High-Pressure Inground Lifts

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

21

If you partake in this magazine’s AutoPuzzle, you may have noticed we ask a question every issue.Your opinions matter, and believe us: we read every response, from the witty and sarcastic to the heartfelt and profound. And since sharing is caring, without further ado, here are the responses to our questions compiled to date:

We Had Questions –

Over the last few years, we’ve asked Here’s what “Customers wanting free diagnostic over the phone or at the front counter.”

Scott Dermott, Scott’s Auto Repair, Alliston, Ont.

“They usually don’t tell you all you need to know.”

Wayne Hughes, Phillips Suzuki, Charlottetown, P.E.I.

“Customers who are always right!”

Tyrelle Kettle, Sullivan Motor Products, Houston, B.C.

“Customers not knowing what parts they need.”

“How they are so poor in describing the problem that they want you to fix.”

Dwain Dickson, C&C Motors, Whitby, Ont.

Ray Hempler, Ram Automotive, Mission, B.C.

“Ever since… wasn’t like that before.”

“When you diagnose a problem and the customer argues with you because their ‘cousin’ told them it was something else.”

Dirk Wassow, Canadian Tire, Nanaimo, B.C.

“When they bring in their own parts. Do they bring their own steak to the Keg?”

Rod Francis, Knuckles Auto Repair, Lunenburg, N.S.

Leon Montinola, Midas Auto Service, Surrey, B.C.

“Customers not understanding the fact that if a technician is not working on a vehicle, he/she is not earning any pay and his/her wage is NOT the door rate.”

Linda Clifford, Murray Dunn GM, Nipawin, B.C.

“My pet peeve is customers who research online about problems with their cars then come in with preconceived notions of what’s wrong with their vehicles when in fact they have researched the wrong info. Therefore, they don’t listen to what we have to recommend.”

“They think that they are always right.”

Dennis Kokovai, Serbu Tire/Wheel City Windsor, Windsor, Ont.

Mike Tarasiewicz, OK Tire & Automotive, Hamilton, Ont.

“They lie about the age of their cars!”

Stephen Wilson, West York Chev Olds, Toronto

Larry Dickison

What is your biggest pet peeve when it comes to dealing with customers?

“Expectations that are too high caused at dealerships by salespersons who overpromise/under-deliver.”

What was the best advice you ever received about this trade?

Bryan Rashleigh, Subaru of Mississauga, Mississauga, Ont.

“Impatience.”

“The old statement, ‘Anybody can do brakes.’”

“Be honest with clients. Take care of them and they will be loyal.”

Mark Charlie, Midas Newton, Surrey, B.C.

Perry VanderGulik, Jem Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

George Bitsanis, Docteur Silencieux, Laval, Que.

22

CANADIAN TECHNICIAN AUGUST 2011

You’ve Got Answers

d for your opinions on myriad topics.

“R.T.F.B. – Read The F***ing Book.

Always checks specs and procedures in your manual.”

you had to say.

Wanda Michelin, Toromont Cat, Goose Bay, Labrador

“Do it right the first time and you won’t have to do it over again.”

Perry VanderGulik, Jem Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

“Learn by your mistakes you learn something new every day (or almost.)”

Georges Huppe, Hill Top Cartage, Hawkesbury, Ont.

“Hone up on your drivability and AC skills.”

electrical,

Michael Hoffman, Practice Auto Care, Kelowna, B.C.

“Treat every customer equally; old car, new car.Treat them both right.”

Elaine Stewart, Mildmay Automotive, Mildmay, Ont.

“The Neon – easy to repair.”

Jerry Broderick, Sarnia Top Gear, Sarnia, Ont.

“1957 Chevy Nomad.”

Jeff Panel, Jem Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

“Do the best job that you are able to the first time.”

“Hyundai Pony.”

Gerry Terry, Frost Automotive, Trenton, Ont.

Rod Francis, Knuckles Auto Repair, Lunenburg, N.S.

“The first year is the hardest.”

“I would love to see the ’Cuda come back with a modern version of the 426 Hemi.”

Junaid Sharif, Jem Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

“If you don’t know, don’t be afraid of asking!”

“Train, train, train. Stay on top of new technology.”

Gary Broomfield, Serco, Goose Bay, Labrador

Shawn Devlin, Midas Auto Service, Surrey, B.C.

“If you borrow a tool more than three times, you need to buy it.”

“Do not cheap out on tools.”

Francis Girabetz, Turpin Autoworld, Bells Corners, Ont.

What vehicle no longer being produced would you like to see brought back?

Conrad Van Bostelem, Graham’s Garage, Coaldale, Alta.

Terry Skurczak, Keham Garage, Lachine, Que.

“Honda CR-X and Toyota MR2.”

Steve Christie, Eastway Toyota/Lexus of Windsor, Windsor, Ont.

“1969 Barracuda Fastback.”

Julie Burnie, Scott’s Auto Repair, Alliston, Ont.

“Don’t assume anything.”

“Choose to stay in this trade as nobody can live without their vehicles.”

Richard Petrowski, Rick’s Performance, Winnipeg

Daryll McLean, Crowfoot Brake & Muffler, Calgary

“You never stop learning.”

“Don’t ever be too proud to ask a question. There isn’t anybody who knows everything.”

Mike Amado, East Vancouver Alignment, Vancouver

Paul Cleary, Serco, Goose Bay, Labrador

“AMC Pacer.”

Jim Turner, Jacobson Pontiac, Kelowna, B.C.

“Plymouth Roadrunner. Beep! Beep!”

William Kamaraus, Kamaraus Garage, Beausejour, Man. AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

23

SURVEY SAYS “Vega, Pinto, Festiva, Omni, K-Car, Geo, Gremlin.”

Gerry’s Truck Centre, London, Ont.

“Barracuda. Any year.”

Dawn Zabrodski, Pyramid Collision Center, Neepawa, Man.

“The Tucker.”

Richard Petrowski, Rick’s Performance, Winnipeg

What makes a good/bad customer?

with the CODA SHOCK/STRUT TESTER

“Chevette.”

Alex Novak, Farrell’s Ultramar, St. Antigonish, N.S.

“Ford Maverick Grabber.”

“A terrific customer is open to suggestion. A customer from hell expects everything.”

Don Kamaraus, Kamaraus Garage, Beausejour, Man.

Dennis Kokovai, Wheel City Windsor/Serbu Tire, Windsor, Ont.

“Dodge Super Bee.” Trevor Gracie, Canadian Tire #063, Dieppe, N.B.

“Good: Someone who trusts you. Bad: Someone who thinks they know everything.”

“Chevy Astro/GMC Safari.”

Bryan Snideman, Dick’s Auto & Truck Repair, Red Deer, Alta.

Perry VanderGulik, Jem Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

“Chevy Chevette – an awesome car!”

Allison Leclair, Midas, Midland, Ont.

Increase Your Shock/Strut Sales A light weight, hand held device, that is simple to operate, cordless and rechargeable.

“Good: One that has gained your trust.

Bad: One that can’t afford to fix his car.”

Clayton Saulnier, Clayts Offroad & Auto, Clare, N.S.

“Mercury Comet.”

Dirk Wusson, Canadian Tire, Nanaimo, B.C.

“Good: Realistic understanding of regular maintenance. Bad: Someone who thinks he knows it all.”

“I would like to see the Plymouth Barracuda. It’s such a tough-looking car.”

Anthony Rauws, Marshall Automotive, Barrie, Ont.

Collette Shynkar, Wheel City Windsor/Serbu Tire, Windsor

“Good:Trust in your work.”

“Datsun 510.”

Craig Birchall, Wally’s Garage, Bracebridge, Ont.

Brook McCarthy, Vernon Kia, Vernon, B.C.

“Good: Loyalty or trust. Bad: Lack of loyalty or trust.”

“’69 Roadrunner 440. An old beau had one I used to drive. Fell in love – with the car, not the guy!”

Jodie Roy, C.A.R.S. – Kamloops, Kamloops, B.C.

AnnMarie Crocker, Head’s Auto Repair, Cold Lake, Alta.

“Good: The trusting ones. Bad: The complainers.”

“How about the Lada, Pinto,Yugo, etc.?

Just to provide job creation for towing.”

Jon Vine, H. Welburn & Fils Towing & Recovery, Huntingdon, Que.

Kevin DeHaan, John’s Auto Supply, Smithville, Ont.

“Good: Willing to listen and learn. Bad: Know it all!”

Steve Skopyk, Integra Tire, Calgary

■ PC software provides a detailed graph of the shock motion and rebound.

■ Provide your clients with customized printouts that bridge the gap of why the shocks and struts are failing.

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$1799.00 + GST and shipping.

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Call Jeff at

403-340-9500 ccta@shaw.ca AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

25

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SURVEY SAYS “‘Re and Re’ is remove and replace.”

“Good: Personality. Bad: Attitude.”

Barry P. Stahls, Brooke Automotive Repair, Owen Sound, Ont.

Diane Kirby, #1 Fix MB, Mississauga, Ont.

“A terrific customer isn’t in a rush and pays on time versus one who wants it yesterday for less.”

Terry Skurczak, Keham Garage, Lachine, Que.

“Good: The size of his wallet. Bad: Likewise, the size of his wallet.”

Perry VanderGulik, Jem Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

What was the most bizarre question a customer has ever asked you?

“A difficult customer who gets satisfied becomes your advocate!”

Joe Bovaird, Norrad Chrysler, Sussex, B.C.

“I loved to increase the performance of vehicles since I was a kid.”

Richard Petrowksi, Rick’s Performance, Winnipeg

“If I have a screw in my tire and I take it out will the tire go flat?”

“Good: Trust. Bad: Body odor and no trust.”

Dennis Kokoai, Serbu Tire, Windsor, Ont.

George Bitsanis, Docteur Silencieux, Laval, Que.

“But do you think it’s safe?”

Perry Vandergulik, JEM Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

“A customer once asked me if it was now against the law to repair tires.”

Jim Anderson, Settler, Alta.

What nicknames do you have for parts or procedures?

What is the story behind your shop’s name?

“Can you jump a 4-cylinder with a 6cylinder?”

Dale Alford, EDP Service Ltd., Victoria, B.C.

“Is this the LCBO [Liquor Control Board of Ontario]?”

“My boss’s father ran the shop years ago and the name stayed when he took over.”

Alex Novak, Farrell’s Ultramar, St. Antigonish, N.S.

“My name is Casey Cats – very unique, easily recognizable and well-known.”

Casey Cats, Casey Cats Enterprises, Windsor, Ont.

“My boss’s first name is Kerry and his last name is Hamilton. He took the ‘Ke’ from Kerry and the ‘h-a-m’ from Hamilton and came up with ‘Keham.’”

Terry Skurczak, Keham Garage, Lachine, Que.

Darlene Hillier, Prochilo Bros. Auto Collision, Toronto

“Here’s the situation: we’re in Northern Ontario and we do car audio.”

“CPR – calipers, pads, rotors; LOF – lube, oil, filter.”

“Can you patch it? I’m going to sell it anyway.”

Norm Pinard, Northern Auto Sound, Sudbury, Ont.

Charlene Doberstein, Midas Auto Service, Surrey, B.C.

Dave Becker, Old Fashioned Services, Peterborough, Ont.

“We call a Ford 5.4 L spark plug replacement the ‘Good Luck Job.’”

“Can you please change the air in my tires? The air must be old by now, right?”

Andre Laramee, Laramee Sales & Service, St. Eustache, Man.

Ted Grigoratos, Catel Auto Ltd., Toronto

“Playing a game with other techs, we had to come up with a team name. I came up with Top Techs. A couple of years later, I opened a shop and called it Top Tech Automotive.”

Shannon Lavoie, Top Tech Automotive, Sault Ste. Marie, Ont.

“‘Guppie Bulbs’ for 194 bulbs.”

“Do I have to explain what’s wrong with my vehicle?”

Fred Wiens, King George Nissan, Surrey, B.C.

Tyler Dermott, Scott’s Auto Repair, Alliston, Ont.

“’Horizon’ is our limit plus owner’s last name.”

“1. Full function valve (FF2) is a ‘foo foo valve’; 2.Trailer pin is a ‘horse cock.’”

“Do you have tires?”

Daniel Fortin, Horizon Lussier, Marieville, Que.

Julie Holden, Action Tire, Barrie, Ont.

Continued on page 34 AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

27

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BOOKMOBILE

By David Menzies The World’s Worst Concept Cars: From Creative Failures to Breathtakingly Ugly Disasters by Richard Dredge (320 pages, Amber Books Ltd.) Often, concept cars make for a sneak peak at the sort of wheels that will be rolling into new car dealerships in the near future.Then again, sometimes a concept car amounts to fantastical artistic expression by the automaker’s design team – an exercise to cut loose and have some fun with no intention of actually bringing the thing to market.

Concept cars push the envelope when it comes to form and function, being equal parts fantastic and futuristic. But that doesn’t mean every concept car is a masterpiece.

Rather, in the concept car game, there are lemons aplenty – the sort of vehicles that leave people shaking their heads for all the wrong reasons.

For those who like to gaze upon the motoring mistakes of others, check out The World’s Worst Concept Cars, an amusing anthology of auto atrocities – most of which were – thankfully – never brought to market.

As author Richard Dredge notes, concept cars give us an opportunity to look into the future – but often those who forecast what’s on the way are seriously detached from reality. In the minds of far-sighted designers, automobiles have forever been on the brink of turning into machines that can glide above the ground, driving themselves while using a minimum of resources. Other common themes include aircraft-style aerodynamics, jaw-dropping technology, and phenomenal efficiency.

Yet, sadly, the reality of modern motoring has rarely lived up to the hype of these futuristic concepts. More than a century after the car arrived, there’s still no autopilot; cars still need a road on which to drive; and in most cases, cars use the same basic mechanical layout that was adopted in the nineteenth century.

The book is divided into five chapters: Bad Design, Minimal Effort, Completely Pointless, Madly Impractical, and Errors of Judgement.

Numerous examples of car carnage abound: 1999 Honda Fuya-Jo (“A cross between an armoured car and a supermarket trolly”); 1956 Packard Protector (“Seen more than half a century on, the Protector looks nothing less than horrifically ugly – a mishmash of jarring lines”); 2008 GMC Denali XT (“Talk about fiddling while Rome burned – it is no wonder that General Motors went belly-up soon after the GMC Denali XT was unveiled. It was not a luxury car nor was it an SUV or even a pick-up, yet it had elements of all three.”)

The World’s Worst Concept Cars makes for a wickedly fun read and proof positive that even when automakers have gazillions of dollars to play with, they nevertheless often get it hideously wrong.

Driving Like Crazy by P.J. O’Rourke (268 pages, Grove Press.)

With the internal combustion engine under attack by so many forces these days, how refreshing to come across a book that is essentially an unapologetic love letter to horsepower, torque, and, yes, freedom.

In Driving Like Crazy, libertarian satirist P.J. O’Rourke thumbs his politically incorrect nose square in the faces of those who look upon car owners as pariahs. And while theories abound as to what caused the decline of the once great American auto industry, O’Rourke lays the blame on kill-joys and nanny state adherents.

“The American car industry was not destroyed by its cars.

The American car industry was destroyed by the FunSuckers.You know the Fun-Suckers.You may be married to one. The Fun-Suckers go around saying how unsafe this fun thing is and how unhealthy that fun thing is and how unfair, unjust, uncaring, insensitive, divisive, contagious, and fattening every other thing that’s fun is.”

Indeed, as O’Rourke poetically notes in the chapter, The End of the American Car: “The Feminists grabbed our women; The liberals banned our guns; The health cops snuffed our cigarettes;The bailout has our funds;The laws of Breathalyzing put an end to our roadside bars; Circle the Fords and Chevys, boys – they’re coming to take our cars.”

And far from condemning automobiles for the woes of the world, O’Rourke makes the case that the American car was a source of intellectual stimulation.

“Think of the innovation, the invention, the sheer genius that transformed a 1908 Model T Ford into the 1968 Shelby Cobra GT500 in the course of a single human lifetime full of speeding tickets,” he writes.“Compare this to the progress in the previously fashionable mode of human transportation. Equine design and production have remained the same for three thousand years. And when it came to creativity, nobody thought to put a stirrup on a saddle until about 500 AD. If the engineering developments of the automobile had proceeded at that pace we’d be powering ourselves down the road by running with our feet stuck through a hole in the floor like Fred Flintstone. (Although it may come to that in the Obamamobile.)”

Simply put, a joy to read.

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

29

The Unknown

Mechanic Talk about a cutting-edge tool!

Poor Charles Seaman, 53, a mechanic in Stamford, Conn. Seaman was recently pulled over by police for driving with an expired registration.That was his first mistake. His second boo-boo: when the cops popped Seaman’s trunk for a quick peak, they discovered a two-foot long rusty machete.That’s when Seaman told the boys in blue the machete is part of his tool kit for working on cars.

Hey, you know how it is with today’s complicated cars, guys. Why, just the other day, The Unknown Mechanic was struggling with a pesky spark plug that needed to be removed. So The Unknown Mechanic reached for his trusty machete and just chopped the S.O.B. off – no muss, no fuss. Better yet, when you present the customer with the bill, there’s never an argument when you’re toting around a two-foot long knife. Beauty.

Anyway, the cops didn’t buy Seaman’s explanation that a machete is among the tools of our trade and Seaman was charged with having a weapon in a motor vehicle and held on a $2,000 bond.

What a tool indeed!

Big McWindfall for Scottish Mechanic The Unknown Mechanic came across a story about a mechanic in the Scottish Highlands, Craig Davie, who just won £3.5 million in the U.K.’s National Lottery.

Here’s the part you gotta love: “It is understood Craig Davie of Fort William turned up for work and asked permission for time off to collect his cheque after winning a half-share of Saturday’s £7 million-plus prize pot.”

Asked for permission? With that kind of coin in my pocket, The Unknown Mechanic is asking the boss for permission from the seat of his

Ferrari en route to the lottery office at Warp Factor 9.

Here’s the other part of the story that’s a hoot: a workmate said Craig, who is in his forties, came into the shop with his usual homemade sandwiches and acted as if nothing had happened.

One of his co-workers said: “We were having a bit of a laugh about it and everyone kept saying ‘Is it you?’ to each other all morning.

“But then we heard it was Craig. It’s such a huge amount.We’re all just stunned here but he’s taking it all in his stride.”

Call me ostentatious, but if The Unknown Mechanic wins millions, all lunches shall be catered affairs – no more homemade sandwiches (unless Wolfgang Puck is living at The Unknown Mechanic’s home.)

Anyway, here’s my question: as much as we all love this crazy business, if you won the equivalent 5.5 million loonies,

do you keep fixing cars? Or are some people clueless when it comes to handling a windfall? (Then again, the guy is a Scotsman…)

Now, that’s some feet!

They say seeing is believing. But even after seeing Matt Stutzman of Iowa in action via YouTube, The Unknown Mechanic isn’t sure if his eyes are playing tricks on him.

You see, Stutzman, 28, was born with no arms. But he has adapted to his handicap in a manner that is nothing short of incredible. For starters, Stutzman is an accomplished archer who’s hoping to land a spot on the U.S. Paralympic archery team next year.

Launching arrows isn’t the only thing Stutzman does with his feet – he can also change a tire and do a brake job.

And he does so fast and flawlessly – never once dropping a tool or a part.

What an inspiration. Just think of Matt Stutzman next time you think you’ve been stuck with a really tough job to do.

The Unknown Mechanic is a technician who wishes to remain anonymous. He works at CENSORED in Parts Unknown, Canada.

Joke of the Month A gynecologist had become fed up with malpractice insurance and endless paperwork. Feeling burnt out, he hoped to try another career where skillful hands would be beneficial, so he decided to become an automotive mechanic.

He went to the local technical college, signed up for evening classes, and learned all he could. When the time of the practical exam approached, the gynecologist prepared carefully for weeks, completing the exam with tremendous skill.

When the results came back, he was surprised to discover he had obtained a mark of 150%. Fearing an error, he called the instructor.

“I don’t want to appear ungrateful for such an outstanding result,” said the ex-gynecologist, “but I wonder if there’s an error in the grade?”

The instructor replied: “During the exam, you took the engine apart perfectly, which was worth 50% of the total mark. You then put the engine back together again perfectly which is also worth 50% of the mark.”

After a pause, the instructor added: “I gave you an extra 50% because you did it all through the muffler, which I’ve never seen done in my entire career.”

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

31

Join the Discussion!

Want to voice your opinion about a particular automotive issue?

Looking for a solution to an unusual problem?

Need help finding a part or an employee?

The Canadian Technician Forum provides you with the opportunity to talk with automotive repair professionals like yourself, whether it means sharing important information or just chatting about being a Canadian technician.

Log on to www.canadiantechnician.ca, follow the links to the forum and

Get Connected

GUEST COLUMN What Life are You Waiting For? Taking skills training to Africa is a life-enriching experience in more ways than one.

By Rick Cogbill

E

ach of us involved in the automotive repair industry made a crucial decision at some juncture of our lives.There came a time when we chose between trade school or university; where we took a job at the tire shop instead of the fast-food joint; where we began buying more tools than video games. As a result, we became apprentices, journeymen, managers, or even shop owners.

Sometimes these choices happened by default when another opportunity was overlooked or ignored. As theologian Harvey Cox put it, “Not to decide is to decide.” My point: we all have choices.

But what if you didn’t have a

be taught. When it came time to leave, they begged me to return. “There’s so much more to learn,” they said.

I came away from that experience torn. The work was hard, the living conditions rough. And the cost… there’s a lot more fun one can have with $5,000.

I put it all aside… until three months later when I found myself in an ambulance heading for the hospital.

Thankfully the heart attack was a minor one. But it sure got my attention.

In a leadership book called Axioms

by Bill Hybels (Zondervan), I came across a simple question:“What life are you waiting for?” It hit me hard. If my medical setback had been the “big

I realized I’d rather be remembered for making a difference in people’s lives. choice? What if there were no opportunities to ignore? What if your future consisted of second-hand clothing, a mud hut, and a small garden held hostage by seasonal rains that may or may not come? Forget med school; you’d be thrilled to pull wrenches or pound nails, Except that you can’t – there’s no trade school, and even if there was, you couldn’t afford it.

People ask me why I go to Africa, why I brave the risk of tropical diseases and the tedium of long flights into Third World airports. It’s because I made a choice to give something back to the trade that gave so much to me.

But it wasn’t an easy decision.

An impromptu trip to Southern Africa in 2010 found me resurrecting worn out vehicles that had been left for dead (and maybe should have stayed that way). As I worked alongside the local workers for that month, I realized how little they knew, but was impressed at how eager they were to

one,” did I want to be remembered for owning a shop or visiting a test track in Japan or even writing funny stories?

I realized I’d rather be remembered for making a difference in people’s lives.

What about you? Has your automotive career been rewarding?

Have you gone the extra mile to make your business or your reputation one of the finest in town? Then good on you. But I’ll bet it isn’t enough. I’m guessing that a small voice inside keeps saying there’s something more.

And there is. It’s called Skills with a Purpose, and that’s what Mercy Tech Mission is all about (www.mercytechmission.com). Our goal is to travel to Third World countries where we not only have the privilege of building or fixing something, we also get to teach skills to the people we’re working with. It’s about giving back. And it’s building into someone else’s life – just as someone built into ours back when we were greenhorns.

The cost? At the very least, some time and money. Sounds scary to some, but once you’ve visited the dirt poor, you’ll realize you’ve got more time and money than they’ll ever see.

The payback? The honour of sharing something with a fellow human being who can never hope to repay you. It’s a feeling you can’t explain – you have to experience it firsthand.

A challenge: maybe it’s time to spend some dollars that have no return on investment. Maybe it’s time to give up a month’s wages and teach what you know to someone halfway around the world that’s desperate to learn. Doctors take sabbaticals and serve in impoverished countries; even lawyers do probono work.What about the automotive trade? Are we up to the task?

Not everyone one can go, but all can take part. Shop owners and parts suppliers: are you willing to write a cheque to help build a maintenance and training centre or sponsor a student? Technicians: are you willing to spare a $100 to buy hand tools for a young man who only wants to lift his family above the poverty level?

I know many shop owners and techs who already do great charitable work right where they live. But I know many others who long to do something more than just earn a paycheque. So here’s my question: What life are you waiting for?

Author and humour columnist Rick Cogbill is the founder of Mercy Tech Mission, whose mission is “To serve needy communities worldwide by providing technical support, skilled labour, and on-site training to enhance the spiritual and physical quality of life.”

AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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SURVEY SAYS Continued from page 27 “Sure – just remember where you got it from!”

Darwin Depape, TK’s Tire & Auto, Calgary

What do you say if someone asks to borrow one of your tools?

“What does your sister look like?”

Ernie Miller, Precision Auto Body, Truro, N.S.

“Deposit first on hand tools. Others, no.”

Alex Novar, Farrell’s Ultramar, Antigonish, N.S.

“If it’s a tech asking, no problem. For a customer – pound salt, please.”

Derek Krasnikoff, Mountainview Auto Service, Penticton, B.C.

How could your jobber serve you better?

“Sorry, I need these to make a living. I don’t lend them out.”

“F—- you!”

Barry Kostiuk, Kingsgate Automotive Ltd., Edmonton

Shawn Mayers, Bridge City Transmission, Saskatoon, Sask.

“Screwdriver, yes; lab scope, no.”

“No, I make a living with my tools.”

Ron Hilenbrandt, Helmut’s Service Centre, Abbotsford, B.C.

Richard Petrowski, Rick’s Performance, Winnipeg

“Make sure you bring it back when you’re done!”

“I ask them if they go to their doctor or dentist and ask to borrow their tools.”

Mike Ryce, Dumont Tire, Sooke, B.C.

Bryan Rashleigh, Subaru of Mississauga, Mississauga, Ont.

Perry Vandergulik, JEM Automotive, Coquitlam, B.C.

“More training courses for the techs.”

“Quicker delivery.”

Perry VanderGulik, Jem Auto Service, Coquitlam, B.C.

“Send the right parts the first time.”

Clayton Saylniea, Clayt’s Offroad & Auto

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We’ll draw a winner on October 31, 2011.

Send to 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ont. M9W 5C4. Or fax to 416-614-8861

Name: Workplace: Work address: Phone:

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NO PURCHASE NECESSARY. To enter, residents of Canada who have reached the age of majority according to the law of the province in which they reside, should complete official entry form and post it to Canadian Technician Magazine, 451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ont., M9W 5C4. Or fax it 416-614-8861. Canadian Technician is the Sponsor of the sweepstakes. Chances of winning depend on total number of eligible entries received. For this month’s drawing, entries must be received no later than 8:00 pm EST on September 30, 2011. One entry per person per month. Prize valued at approximately $100. Void where prohibited. Subject to full, official rules and regulations. For full, official rules and regulations visit. www.canadiantechnician.com

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Goodyear Engineered Products are manufactured and sourced exclusively by Veyance Technologies, Inc. or its affiliates. ©2011 Veyance Technologies, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN AUGUST 2011

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Congratulations to Bev Stone of Metro Chrysler Dodge Jeep in Ottawa for solving our April 2011 puzzle.

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Across 1. Drivers 6. Trucker’s workplace 8. Cops’ weapon in auto-theft campaign (4,3) 9. Traditional colour of London’s licensed cabs 10. Gasoline brand 11. Name of “Gone in 60 Seconds” star car 12. Highway loop around a city 14. ‘73-’75 Buick for a Greek god 17. Freeway access points 19. ‘84-’94 Mercury for a gemologist 21. Michigan city with GM plants 22. ‘71 movie with GTO, “____ Blacktop” (3,4) 24. Workshop wiper 25. A former fuel (6,3) Down 1. UK-built ‘62-’80 sports car (1,1,1) 2. Three-wheeled motorcycle, slangily 3. Automakers’ defect-related actions 4. Urban thoroughfare 5. Mercury clone of ‘86-’05 Ford Taurus 6. CB-radio setting 7. ‘03 motorcycle street-racing movie (5,4) 10. Auto-stereo component, sometimes 13. Downtown-driver’s dilemma 15. Road crater 16. ‘55-’62 BMW microcar 18. Roadside stopover option 20. Slang term for car collision 23. ‘09 VW hardtop convertible

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QUESTION OF THE MONTH Question of the month: What was your worst customer service experience?

continued from page 38

pulled the plugs first, just to make sure. But there’s no sign of coolant in the cylinders, so that ain’t it.” He took another shot from the thermos and smacked his lips appreciatively. “Hmm, I think I mixed this a little strong.”

Beanie sat down on the steps. “So now you figure it’s a bad starter?”

Tooner shrugged. “Has to be. It pulls the battery down to four volts, so I’m thinkin’ the windings are shot.” He got to his feet unsteadily and began to stack some wooden blocks under the raised car.

Beanie was thoughtful. “Before you pull the starter, have you tried turning the engine over by hand? Maybe it’s seized up.”

Tooner stopped. “You got a point.”

He grabbed a socket and breaker bar from his battered toolkit and gave the crankshaft a hard pull.

“Nope,” he wheezed. “Can’t budge ’er. Ol’ Bertie must’ve seized ’er up solid.” The thought cheered him considerably until he remembered who would have to rebuild the engine.

Beanie coughed politely. “Uh, have you turned it the other way?”

Tooner glared at him. “What for? An engine can’t be seized frontwards and not backwards.” To prove his point, he reversed direction on the breaker bar. “Sheesh, I never heard such…”

However, to his surprise, the engine turned freely in the counterclockwise direction – two full revolutions, in fact. But as soon as he turned it clockwise again, it stopped dead. He spun around.

“How did you…?”

But Beanie had quietly slipped away. Showing up your mentor isn’t wise, especially if your mentor is Tooner.

Since the car was jacked up anyway, Tooner pulled the starter to make sure something wasn’t jamming the flywheel and acting like a one-way clutch. As a precaution, he “benchtested” the starter with some jumper cables while it was out. It worked perfectly.

Setting his thermos aside, he ordered up a gallon of Rolph’s strongest coffee and went at the car with a passion.

In desperation he finally pulled off the serpentine belt, and to his utter amazement the battered old Taurus fired right up and ran smooth. Further investigation revealed that the AC compressor clutch bearing had packed it in, causing enough drag on the serpentine belt in the clockwise direction to stall the starter motor.

“So just like that, with no warning?” It was late afternoon, and Rolph was perched beside Tooner on the steps, sharing the last contents of the thermos.

Rick Cogbill is a licensed technician and former shop owner in Summerland, B.C. To read more about Slim and the gang, order your copy of Rick’s book, A Fine Day for a Drive at www.thecarside.com. Special thanks goes out to Kevin Stein, a technician from Fruitvale, B.C. for this month’s technical puzzle.

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AUGUST 2011 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

37

The Car Side

By Rick Cogbill

All In The Family A 1993 Ford Taurus belonging to Tooner’s troublemaking mother-in-law just won’t turn over – until Beanie comes up with a solution (for the Taurus, that is, not the mother-in-law.)

The slamming of the screen door echoed through the alley as Rolph appeared, battered coffee pot in one hand and a serving plate in the other.

“How ’bout a refill, Tooner? It looks like you’re gonna be here a while.”

Buried deep under the hood of a ’93 Taurus, Tooner grimaced and muttered a few nondescript phrases. It was just plain bad luck that his mother-in-law’s car had broken down right behind Rolph’s Diner. Not only was the flaccid Ford bloodying up his knuckles, but Rolph’s potent brew was ravaging his gut.

Straightening up, he mopped his face with a dirty rag.

“Hold the coffee, Rolph, but I’ll take seconds on those dinner rolls.”

Rolph was ecstatic. “Finally! Someone who appreciates my culinary talents.”

He beamed as he gently laid out two rough looking specimens on the roof of the car. “Would you like ’em toasted?”

“Nope, I’ll take ’em raw.”

As soon as Rolph was out of sight,Tooner took the rolls and placed them behind the rear tires.

“Gotta make sure this heap don’t roll away when I jack ’er up,” he muttered.

Tooner’s troubles began when his mother-in-law parked

behind Rolph’s Diner on Saturday afternoon. Her actual destination was the secondhand shop three stores down, but when it’s “Thrift Shop Day” in town, parking is at a premium.

Rolph didn’t mind having his loading bay being blocked on a Saturday – there are no weekend deliveries in Slumberland.

But Monday morning would be a different matter entirely, forcing Tooner to waste a perfectly good Sunday on familyrelated car repairs. That – and the coffee – wasn’t sitting well.

He was fighting with a rusty scissor jack when Beanie came sauntering down the alley.

“What’s up,Toon?”

“Mother-in-law’s car,” he grunted.

Beanie nodded and surveyed the cluttered alleyway.

“Why don’t you tow it up to the shop? I’m sure Slim wouldn’t mind.”

“Slim ain’t the problem. Mabel’s ma figures the only reason I exist is to fix her car for free, and I ain’t payin’ for no tow truck… especially for her.” He sat down on a wooden crate and opened his thermos. “Want some? It’s my special weekend blend.”

Beanie took a whiff and backed away. “N-no thanks. So what’s the story? No start?”

Tooner took a long swig.

“Well, it tries to start, but then it stops dead like it’s hydrolocked. The rad is low, and being a 3.8L head gasket special, I continued on page 37

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