Canadian Technician December 2010

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The Demon in the Box

Why counterfeit automotive parts are scary.

2009 U.S. AUTOMOTIVE TECHNICIANS’ CHOICE: OVERALL BEST BRAND OF HAND TOOLS

contents

Canadian Technician • December 2010 • Vol. 15 No. 10

FEATURES

The Demon in the Box… ....................................16 Do you really know what you’re getting when it comes to those generic, off shore replacement parts found in little white boxes?

Consider this: knockoff and counterfeit automotive parts can be inferior, substandard, and in some cases, downright deadly.

Transmissions: The Next Generation ....24 Transmission technology has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. But fasten your seatbelts: even more transmission innovations are on the way.

COLUMNISTS Management S.O.S.

By Kelly Bennett . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

DEPARTMENTS

30 The Car Side

By Rick Cogbill

Editorial ......................................................................5 Service Notes.............................................................7 Letters ........................................................................8 Out & About .............................................................10 Reader Rides...........................................................10 EyeSpy......................................................................12 From the Forum.......................................................13 Products...................................................................27 Auto Puzzle ..............................................................28

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DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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EDITORIAL

Time to make winter tires mandatory And another thing – can we drop that “all-season” moniker already?

By David Menzies

I

tend to get a little antsy when I hear that a politician wants to tinker with the Highway Traffic Act (or anything else that affects our day-to-day life, for that matter.) After all, just consider the two biggest lies uttered in the history of mankind: Number Two: “The cheque is in the mail”; and (insert drum roll here) Number One: “Hi. I’m from the government. I’m here to help you.”

Even so, a private member’s bill recently introduced into the Ontario Legislature is something all reasonable people should get behind.

Bill Mauro, MPP for Thunder BayAtikokan, has introduced a motion calling on the insurance industry to reduce car insurance premiums for those drivers who use winter tires.

What’s not to love? Winter rubber functions far better than summer or allseason tires when that despicable coot, Old Man Winter, decides to take up residence. So why not give responsible motorists a break on their premiums?

There’s an added benefit: reduced insurance premiums for drivers embracing winter tires would help those consumers absorb the cost of such rubber.

In fact, a positive domino effect may occur here: increased use of winter tires would result in safer roads for everyone, something that would benefit insurance companies if there are fewer accidents (or the collisions are less severe.)

A coalition of organizations promoting road safety, including the Canadian Automobile Association and the Ontario Trucking Association, has endorsed Mauro’s motion. And the coalition has written to the leaders of all three provincial parties and to the CEO of the Insurance Board of Canada, asking for their support of the motion.

Certainly, the statistics make a profound

case in favour of winter tires. Consider: ■ Ontario’s Ministry of Transportation and Transport Canada have acknowledged that all-season tires can begin to lose their grip when the temperature drops below -10°C. ■ Tests by Transport Canada and the Canadian Rubber Association found that all-season tires went-off the testing track at speeds of only 40 to 50 km/h, while cars with winter tires had no difficulty.

■ According to Quebec’s Ministry of Transportation, proper winter tires can improve braking by 25%.

■ A 2005 study by the Canadian Press and Leger Marketing found that only 29% of Ontario drivers use winter tires. In contrast, the Canadian average was 42% and winter tire use in Quebec was 84%.

But why hit the brakes with just an insurance premium discount for motorists? Why doesn’t Ontario (and the other provinces) follow Quebec’s lead by making winter tires compulsory? After all, safety first, right?

And while we’re revamping policy when it comes to winter rubber, how’s this for an idea: truth in advertising.

Simply put, wouldn’t it be great if all the tire manufacturers selling their wares in Canada stopped using the term “allseason tire” in these parts?

Let’s refer to all-season tires with a more truthful descriptor: “three-season tires.” Otherwise, aren’t the tire companies just creating confusion in the marketplace when it comes to the merits of winter rubber? (Put another way, how many times have you heard someone say: “I don’t need winter tires – I already have all-seasons.”?)

In the meantime, hopefully more jurisdictions will make winter tires compulsory. Such a move would be good for safety. And good for business.

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DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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SERVICE NOTES

VOLUME 15

MarketWatch misfire

NUMBER 10

Article offers generalizations about a vital industry and simplistic advice to consumers.

451 Attwell Drive, Toronto, Ont. M9W 5C4 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 GROUP PUBLISHER Mark Vreugdenhil mark@canadiantechnician.ca (416) 614-5819 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 2010. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may 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 Publications Assistance Program toward our mailing costs. PAP Registration No. 10833.

Kenneth R. Wilson Award Winner Member

Canadian Business Press

By Allan Janssen

F

orget WikiLeaks. Chicago-based consumer advocate Jennifer Waters has blown the whistle on all the dirty little secrets of the automotive repair industry.

Our strategy of bilking motorists with oil changes that are essentially “a waste of precious resource – not to mention money” has been published on MarketWatch.com – a website affiliated with the Wall Street Journal online.

The piece, entitled “What Car Mechanics Don’t Want You To Know,” also reveals our other favourite scams: charging for tire rotations that never get done, replacing brake pads before they’re worn out, and using fake inspections to root around for work we can charge an arm and a leg for.

Damn you, Waters! We had a good thing going!

I’m kidding, of course.Waters’ piece – read it at www.tinyurl.com/ct006 – is nothing new, and it is not much of a concern to reputable repair shops.

Here’s why: 1. Maintenance makes sense.

Despite the assertion that today’s cars simply don’t break down as much as they used to, there’s no denying that parts wear, tolerances degrade, fasteners slacken, carbon builds up, and misfires happen. Cars are subject to the law of entropy – which is a fancy way of saying that left untended they eventually decline into a state of disorder.

Routine service is a way of staying on top of that process and reversing it when it starts to impact the operation of the vehicle.

2. Breakdowns still happen.

“The Demon in the Box” by Waynw Moore Phone (905) 632-8770 www.canadiantechnican.ca/covers

When the car won’t start anymore, or won’t turn, or won’t stop reliably, or drags on the ground, or makes intolerable noises, there’s only two choices: junk it or fix it. We’re in the fix-it camp.

We offer the better, more environmentally responsible, fiscally sound, and time efficient solution. We do specialized, highly-skilled work that is made possible by sophisticated equipment and hundreds of hours of on-the-job training. The work we do is an essential service in today’s car-centric society. We should never be embarrassed to charge fairly for our labour.

3. Shops like smart consumers.

Much of what Waters advises is actually quite reasonable: make sure the work that is suggested is truly necessary. Make sure the work you pay for is actually done. Don’t pay an inflated price. Follow the recommended service intervals listed in your owner’s manual. Buy quality parts that come with a warranty. Find a shop you can trust, that will stand behind their work. I have no quibble with any of that, and neither do the shop owners I’ve spoken to on this matter.

4. No one likes bad apples.

Waters points out that complaints about auto repairs consistently rank among the top 10 consumer grievances. I’m sure many of those complaints are valid and they make the point that the automotive service and repair industry needs to be cleaned up. Reputable shop owners want nothing more than for the sharks and scam-artists out there, to be run out of business.

Jennifer Waters’ piece is not completely harmless. Some of her advice is genuinely dangerous. Like looking for hand-made engine parts rather than buying name brands, and having DIYers check their own MILs with a hand-held tester.

But as a whole, it is neither new nor disconcerting. It merely has a provocative title to generate interest and uses generalities and sweeping statements to paint all repair professionals with a tainted brush.

DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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LETTERS

BAY WATCH: CUSTOMERS IN THE BAYS CAN MAKE FOR RISKY BUSINESS Editor’s Note: In the October 2010 issue, we printed a letter from Robert Worley of Edmonton who complained that a technician had physically assaulted him when he continued to question the tech about repairs to his truck.

Here’s what you had to say in response:

ROBERT WORLEY APPEARS TO BE A; a disgruntled customer and/or B; one of those customers that no shop enjoys dealing with.

His first problem starts with not understanding the “safety” part of the inspection. If in fact he has, in his own words, a “golf ball” sized hole in his wheel well (possibly sub-frame, strut tower, etc.), that is by the Ministry of Transportation’s definition a SAFETY DEFECT. And his use of the word “ALSO” indicates that the second shop found offset brake pad wear and an idler arm out of ministry spec.

As far as his questions leading to the “assault” I would imagine that after not even thinking a gaping hole would be safety-related, his questions were unneeded, unwanted and generally pointless.

As for being in the shop, customers should never be allowed in the work area, let alone in the pit with a tech. If they are escorted in and directly back out that’s fine with me. But I’m sure everyone reading your magazine has had customers sneak in to ask an irrelevant question so they can, for example,“make sure you do a good job” or change the oil filter “right” or use the hoist as a free tool to inspect the underside of their car.

HOW I DEAL WITH CUSTOMERS IN THE SHOP is I don’t let them in unless invited. So I will do the inspection, then tell the customer what’s wrong and offer to show them. If they want to watch, I politely tell them,“Sorry, but that’s not allowed.”

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

I was trained by old school ’60s and ’70s mechanics that probably would have grabbed him and given him a shove too.

I personally wouldn’t have pushed him but I absolutely would’ve told him to leave the shop. If someone was in his place of work in his personal space, with no knowledge of his trade and asking irrelevant questions and basically accusing him of not knowing how to do his job, I’m sure Robert would’ve reacted badly, too.

The “Walmart generation” of customers are a constant problem because they feel the world at large owes them something. A better deal, instant service, “cash” discounts, etc. I’ve had disgruntled customers call me names and spread bad info about me for not bending to their somehow entitled will for a rubber safety so they can save money – or worse – sell an unsafe, rotten heap to an unsuspecting person (with only the mechanic who signed the safety being held accountable.)

Bottom line: at least Robert won’t hound the next guy inside his place of work.

Rob Hosking Licensed Class A Technician Aurora, Ont.

Simon Field Owner/technician Simon’s Automotive Langley, B.C.

WHEN I READ ROBERT WORLEY’S LETTER, I thought it was either a fake story or Robert Worley isn’t normal.

A technician (let’s say “mechanic”) is not a service advisor or a trade school teacher. Also every tech has a different ability when it comes to explaining.

I’ve seen lots of RUDE customers, but I would never imagine assaulting them or throwing someone against a handrail. Because I understood who they are – customers.

The customer is the money in my pocket to support me. If a customer made me really embarrassed or verbally abused me, I always ask that they see the service manager. This is the perfect job for a service manager!

If Robert was really pissed off by the tech’s stupidity, he

FOR ME, AN AUSSIE, IT’S A NO-BRAINER: customers simply are not allowed to be in the workshop because of the OH&S rules we have, unless accompanied by a member of staff and are not under hoists, near operating tools, etc.

Simply say: “Good morning, sir. Because you have no safety boots and due to insurance liability issues, I’m sorry but you will need to move outside or wait in the showroom until I can come and get you after I have disassembled it for you to view.”

I’ve yet to have anyone not comply. Usually I get a, “Sorry. I didn’t realize this was the policy” response (even if they were being obstinate about it.)

I actually prefer to have a customer see what needs to be done on their car, and quite often take the initiative to either show them the parts or box them up and place them in the vehicle so they can see something tangible for the money they hand over.

Remember, most of our advertising, good or bad, comes by

WHEN YOU ARE THE WIFE of a rural auto businessman – and it is extremely busy – and your husband has his “bay” in the shop or in the middle of the yard (or, would you believe, trapped in the box of a large grain truck), you know that Husband has no time for BIG STORY TELLERS, standing, one at a time, below that grain truck.

One day I looked out the window and there was the customer we called “Red Cap.” And he was yelling car stories up to my husband. Now, understand, it was one of those strong hurricane-force wind days in Swift Current, Saskatchewan.

There was a row of tall elm trees alongside that truck – and the wind in them choked out all intentions to be “nice.” Husband did not pretend to try hearing politely and responding to the man as Mama had taught him to do. He ignored the man, even though the man continued to talk. Hours later, Red Cap was

I WELCOME MY CUSTOMERS into the shop area. An honest operator’s best salesperson is a well informed customer.

Chesley Auto Repair Chesley Ont.

shouldn’t get mad – or maybe he enjoyed the tech’s situation?

He paid $100 or $150 (depends on the door rate) for his truck check-up. He is not there to get serviced as a V.I.P. And does Robert argue with his lawyer like that? Or his doctor? If he asked so many useless, stupid questions to his lawyer, the lawyer would want extra money for the time spent. Doctors won’t put up with someone wasting their time either.

I want to know what Robert's job is. And I would like to ask some questions about his job by paying $100-$150. I can come up with 200 different questions.

Charlie Yang Cambridge, Ont.

word of mouth when our customers are around the BBQ, having a few drinks with friends, or at church when someone asks, “So, where do think I should get my car fixed?”

These days there’s very little on a vehicle that is “cheap” to replace or maintain. At the end of the day, you may get a few extra quick “dodgy” dollars, but integrity will see the customer return next time.

As far as inspections go, stick to the rules, give the estimate as needed (works for honest people.) And even tell the owner of an older vehicle that given the money it’s going to cost – both now and as an ongoing expense – it may be better to spend the money on a new vehicle. Then you will have them as a service and maintenance customer instead of a “patch ’er up” one.

Andrew Dixon Calgary

still there, talking away.

At suppertime, I asked about it.

“Humpf!” said my man, unenthusiastically. “You remember he bought a green car yesterday from my lot? Today he wanted to trade it in for the red one that I have there.”

“So, I should have helped out?” I asked.

“No,” said my hubby. “First, he had to wait until I finished installing that tarp for Farmer Mowe. I had quite a few interruptions with others needing advice.When I came down, after three hours, I said, ‘No!’ Red Cap came back the next day.

Frieda-Marie Elias (retired) Formerly of Springfield Auto Sales & Service Wymark, Sask.

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

DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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OUT & ABOUT

Polk study: consumers holding on to vehicles longer Good news for the automotive aftermarket: mid-year analysis shows increasing length of ownership of new vehicles.

Thanks in part to rocky economic times, the average length of ownership of new vehicles continues to increase, according to a recent analysis from Polk.

Consumers are now hanging on to a new vehicle, on average, for 63.9 months based on second quarter 2010 data.

That’s up 4.5 months from the same time last year, according to Polk.

In fact, length of ownership has risen each quarter since the end of 2008 and serves as an indicator of business opportunities available to the automotive aftermarket, based on the increasing numbers of older vehicles in operation that may need service or parts as well as the increasing number of vehicles on the road falling out of warranty.

According to Polk, the average length of new vehicle ownership has increased an average of 3.7% annually prior to

the economic and auto industry meltdown in late 2008. Since that time, average length of ownership of new vehicles has increased more than 14% – with no signs of slowing down.

“Ownership trends are something our customers watch very closely,” says Eric Papacek, Polk solutions consultant.

“Armed with insightful data on these trends, aftermarket and retail customers are able to appropriately plan for levels of service work and parts that may be required based on the increased age of vehicles on the road.”

When considering registrations for used models, average length of ownership is also at a record high – 46.1 months, up from 43.8 months from the same period in 2009.

New and used vehicles combined have an average length of ownership of 52.2 months based on second quarter analysis, according to Polk.

Snake’s Alive!

READER

RIDES

A fine gift for a tech Looking to acquire a last-minute Christmas gift any tech would cherish? Then how about giving that special technician on your Nice List A Fine Day for a Drive by Canadian Technician wordsmith Rick Cogbill, author of “The Car Side.”

Indeed, if you don’t already have your own copy of this “literary masterpiece” (as the author humbly refers to his tome), then perhaps now’s the time to fix that mistake by purchasing one for yourself.

A Fine Day for a Drive chronicles the hilarious life and times of rascally Slim Shambles of Slim Shambles Auto Repair. This collection of humourous tales provides you with Slim’s back story, from his goofy home life escapades to his dealings with his sarcastic dog, Buddy (who constantly offers unwelcome advice – much like that grumpy old tech who slouches in a chair in the corner of your lunchroom.)

Go to www.thecarside.com for full details.

And how’s this for a Christmas bonus: free shipping is now available.

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

This 1965 AC Cobra is the pride and joy of Steve Booy of Steve’s Automotive in Woodstock, Ont. This speedy serpent has a 5.8L motor that was reworked and now produces about 350 hp at the rear wheels. “This car is a Factory Five replica that has special meaning to us because it was in our shop when it burned down,” says Steve. “The car was almost complete at the time, and was written off by the insurance company. We had to disassemble it completely and start over again from scratch. Now, it's a lot of fun to drive!”

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.

SUPPLIER NEWS

Men, women and the automotive aftermarket

Safety-Kleen invests in Ontario’s green economy

Ipsos Reid study shows men are more diligent when it comes to getting their vehicles serviced.

According to Ipsos Reid’s Canadian What parts of an automobile are Automotive Aftermarket Monitor (a getting attention? First and foremost is new quarterly study that gathers inforengine lubrication (oil changes) at 90%. mation about how Canadians service Wheels and tires are the next most their vehicles), 97% of men who say they common service at 50%, air filters at are the principal driver look after their 36%, brakes at 32% followed by engine own vehicle. On the flipside, just 59% of tune-ups at 29%. women who say they are the principal “Generally speaking, I think car driver look after their own vehicle. maintenance is still something females In this instance, “looking after” a are not comfortable looking after for vehicle isn’t necessarily about getting themselves,” Hsu says. “[This study under the hood and carrying out shows] 59% of women are looking after mechanical repairs. Rather, it’s more their own cars – but that means 41% about who is making decisions such as have a husband or partner, dad or when a car should be looked after and where it goes for attention.

“In my house with two cars, I look after my own car, and I am also making decisions about my wife’s car,” Michael Hsu, an Ipsos Reid vice-president, recently told the Calgary The Gender Divide: men Herald. “In my situation, I and women look after their cars differently. just don’t think my wife is that interested – [she is] perhaps thinking, ‘It's a car, it’s greasy, you look after it for me. I'll go as far as pumping gas, and that’s it.’” brother, or a sister who is mechanically Keeping a vehicle on the road and inclined, looking after their car.” extending its longevity comes down to Hsu says much of the information proper and consistent maintenance; gathered is used by some of the major something where there is again a big oil companies and suppliers to underdifference between men and women. stand just how they’re doing in the For example, the study reveals a gap market and to learn where and how regarding how often the two genders Canadians service their vehicles. bring a vehicle in for service.

The study, which is performed The study notes: “Male drivers who online, asks 3,500 everyday Canadians are also the principal maintainers of one aged 18 and older about recent vehicle or more vehicles perform a total of services they’ve had performed, where almost four different automotive it was done, and how satisfied they services during an average three-month were with the work. If the vehicle period, compared to just three services owner did their own servicing, the for female drivers who are also the study asks what items were purchased principal maintainers of their vehicles.” to complete the tasks.

Safety-Kleen Canada Inc., Canada's largest collector and re-refiner of used motor oil, broke ground recently on a $26 million expansion of its Breslau, Ont., used oil re-refinery. The expansion will increase the facility's processing capacity by 25%, from 152 million to 191 million litres of used oil annually.

This increase in re-refining capacity will allow the facility to process the equivalent of 130,000 engine oil changes a day, re-refining the used oil into high quality lubricating oils.

Davidson appointed as Bosch Canada VP and GM Bosch Canada has announced the appointment of Niall Davidson as vicepresident and general manager, Automotive Aftermarket Division Canada. In this role, Davidson will be responsible for the overall management of Bosch Canada's Aftermarket Division.

Davidson joins Bosch with more than 25 years’ experience in the automotive aftermarket industry. His background includes managing equipment and tool businesses in the United States, Asia, Latin America, and Canada.

Pennzoil named “Favourite Motor Oil Brand” Pennzoil has been named the “Favourite Motor Oil Brand” in Popular Mechanics magazine’s Readers’ Choice Awards. More than 10,000 Popular Mechanics readers, including automotive enthusiasts, participated in the 2010 survey to determine readers’ favourite consumer products in more than 30 categories. Among the brands included in the survey, Pennzoil was voted as the top motor oil.

DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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OUT & ABOUT SUPPLIER NEWS New Web-based inventory tool debuts Atlantic Tube & Steel, a leader in automotive and structural steel tubing, has introduced a new web-based enhancement to its website designed exclusively for its customers. Named the Customer Inventory Portal (CIP), the new interactive tool allows users to monitor the status of a job in the production process, track remaining product quantities in inventory, and shop for other available stock in the Atlantic warehouse.

New packaging for Raybestos New packaging for Raybestos Brakes (a member of the Affinia family of brands) has been released. The new Raybestos Professional Grade packaging was redesigned to enhance communication. Affinia notes that compelling facts and attention-grabbing visuals provide the product validation technicians need to confidently sell a premium brake job.

Federal-Mogul announces enhanced organization for North American aftermarket Federal-Mogul Corporation recently announced its enhanced North American aftermarket organization.

Paul Johnson joins the company as vicepresident, North America, global aftermarket. Johnson will report directly to Jay Burkhart, senior vice-president, global aftermarket and will be located at the World Headquarters in Southfield, Mich. He assumes the position formerly held by Bob Egan, who was recently appointed vice-president, customer relations, global aftermarket.

New HQ for Walter Surface Technologies Walter Surface Technologies has opened its new world headquarters in Pointe-Claire, Que.

Curt Ukasik named 2010 Goodguys Trendsetter Curt Ukasik of RPM Hot Rods in Warrendale, Penn., was recently presented with the Goodguys Trendsetter award in LasVegas.The award is presented annually at the SEMA show to rising young talents in the realm of hot rod and custom car building.

Hand crafting cars in the mountains of southeastern Pennsylvania, Ukasik has left his mark on the industry in both hot rod and muscle car fabrication. With a vision to build cutting edge cars that combine reliability, style and extreme performance, he has taken RPM Hot Rods to the forefront of the industry. He and his talented team turned out the Goodguys 2009 Gearstar Hot Rod of the Year (Bill Steele’s Model A) as well as the Goodguys 2009 Detroit Speed Muscle Machine of the Year (Bryan Frank’s ’69 Pontiac Trans Am) before setting his sights on the 2010 Goodguys Grand Prize Giveaway Car – the Boss Snake.

Starting with nothing more than a Dynacorn body, various parts from suppliers and a Jon Kaase Boss 429 hemi, RPM Hot Rods hand built the majority of the car including suspension, engine and body modifica-

tions turning it into a muscle car masterpiece to recreate the famed “Quarterhorse” cars from the 1970s.

Muscle man: Curt Ukasik.

The original Quarterhorse Mustangs didn’t allow room for a Boss 429 shotgun hemi, necessitating a complete reconfiguration of the car’s inner structures. Ukasik and his team made it look so seamless it appeared as though it rolled off an assembly line somewhere in Detroit.

EYE Steel Wheels Tour redux SPY

“This Chrysler Sebring was brought in on a flatbed,” writes Bernie Giesler, manager of Giesler Auto in Powassan, Ont. “The night before, the kid was driving his mom’s car home from somewhere. Once he was home, he told her the car was making some ‘funny noises’ and was pulling to the left.

Almost all of the rim is gone. The caliper went up through the wheel well; the tire cords wound around the CV boot and have torn it apart.”

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

12

CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

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

The Problem with Unsafe Vehicles A Canadian Technician Forum member asked fellow Forum participants what they do when a car comes into the shop that’s “severely unsafe.” Here’s how the discussion unfolded.

I have been down this exact road. There is nothing you can do unless you have built up some form of relationship with your local RCMP.

repair order. If I feel the car is unsafe to be on the road (after having the car on the lift so I can visually examine it and not just make an assumption), I list the safety items. I refuse to perform any work on the car in case of an accident.

I will not release the car without a signature on the repair order so I have it in writing and signed by the customer that he has been advised he is driving an unfit vehicle.Then I fax a copy to the police department in my area with a cover letter explaining what the work order is about. Makes for an unhappy customer but releases me from legal responsibility.

Posted by ALLNUTS nobolts

Posted by fatchuck

In B.C., all we can do is call the RCMP and report an unsafe vehicle. I’m a certified government motor vehicle inspector and for private vehicles we can only fail the vehicle, we can’t stop it from leaving. If a condemned commercial vehicle leaves, we must immediately phone RCMP.

My favourite line was from the owner of a p.o.s. ’95 Escort with 4 bald tires and loose ball joints and tie rods.

“Well it’s okay to drive because I don’t go on the highway, just around the suburbs delivering newspapers.” Yeah, sure – cause no kids ever cross in front of cars in the morning trying to catch the bus! I told the boss if that car ever came back again I would refuse to work on it as I didn’t want my name on the last work order before an accident!

I was wondering if anyone knew what recourse we have when a severely unsafe vehicle comes in and all recommended repairs are denied. I know that as a technician, I cannot remove it from the road, but is there a call that can be made to a licensing body, insurance company, the RCMP, etc. so that this thing gets repaired or removed from our roads?

Posted by sbchevfreak

Posted by Bilmac

If you don’t mind me asking, if they aren’t coming into the shop for the required safety repairs, what repairs are they returning for? How has the customer been made aware of the safety issues? Just an estimate on the invoice with comments and a bunch of lingo that they may not understand? Or has somebody physically shown them the dangerous components?

Posted by jeffcompton

What I do is that for whatever work comes in the door, I make a

Posted by jeffcompton

I spoke with the local county Mountie, and he said if a vehicle is unsafe to be driven to call him and report it. He seemed to take it VERY seriously. Then, I am told such a phone call would have to be authorized by our store owner – like it’s his ass on the line if a deathtrap loses control and kills Patty J. SoccerMom and her kids.

Posted by sbchevfreak

Here in N.B., we have yearly mandatory vehicle inspections. I have learned that many people just want their “sticker” so they can drive. They don’t seem to care if there is a safety issue or that the tech could be in serious trouble should something fail after an inspection. We have lost several customers over the years to more “lenient” shops and that is tough to take.

Posted by Accurate

In B.C., we only have to call the police or one of the Vehicle Safety Officers. I actually work on the safety officers’ vehicles and they have told me more than once to call them if there is an unsafe vehicle.

Posted by PAR

Didn’t think I’d spark this much discussion. Thanks for all the replies! Some points are very enlightening. I think the best way for me, right now, is to refuse service on a repeat offender; or, refuse any other service until the safety issue is repaired.

I have actually done this once, with a vehicle that had no brakes. My first year apprentice actually hit the bench with it! Not in for brake work, but it didn’t get the service it was in for until the brakes were repaired. I didn't care who did the work, but I wasn't going to touch it until it would stop.

Posted by sbchevfreak 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.

DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

13

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.

You’re Not Successful Unless You’re Happy

By Kelly Bennett

DEAR KELLY: Five years! It’s hard to believe that it has been five years since I made the transition from working for you as a technician to opening my own shop. It has certainly been the longest roller coaster ride I have every taken. We’re having our fifth anniversary celebration next week and I would be honoured if you could come. I’d never be where I am today if it weren’t for all of your guidance and inspiration. As I celebrate this milestone, I find myself wondering: what’s next? There as so many decisions.

Should I keep my shop the same size? Hire more technicians?

Add more bays? Consider a second location? What do you think?

-Erol

DEAR EROL: Time is a strange commodity. Days go by slowly, but years zoom past quickly.

Above all else, when making “big picture” decisions, consider this: you’re not successful unless you’re happy.

In a recent management group meeting, we discussed this subject and there were a variety of viewpoints.

Consider these profiles: Will is a very unique individual and has run a successful shop for more than 20 years. When he first started the shop, he made a very clear commitment: his

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

business was going to serve his family because his family was the purpose for the business. He’s remained steadfast to that commitment, even to the point of shutting down his shop in the early days so he could attend a spelling bee at school. His decision to put family first has paid huge dividends, and I’m sure this strategy will have a positive impact on the lives of his children for years to come.

Then there’s Brent, who also runs a successful shop. It runs so well, in fact, that it seamlessly hums along even when Brent isn’t there. However, Brent is in a place where many self-employed people end up: he’s bored!

Greg, meanwhile, is a young entrepreneur with lofty goals – and it looks as though he’s going to achieve those goals. Indeed, Greg owns three successful repair shops and has plans to add at least one more.

Greg reminds me of another shop owner, Drew, who started five repair shops from scratch. He hired a great general manager who was content to manage the five locations. Drew however, wasn’t content. In fact, he was bored silly. He ended up heading into a whole new business venture and sold his five shops.

Then there’s John. John runs a highly successful repair shop, however, he

trained, incredibly reliable and are empowered to make decisions.

I find many shop owners feel they cannot get away like this as they don’t have confidence in their staff. Too many shop owners give their staff a load of responsibilities – but not authority! From my experience, shop owners who are true control freaks and micromanagers have the most difficult time empowering others to run their shops. Sad thing is, they’re tied to the shop and cannot get away. They usually blame their employees, although a simple glance in the mirror reveals the true culprit.

One of my favourite shop owners is Maria. She decided from the outset she would never allow her business to control her life. She wanted her own business and a great lifestyle to go along

Bobby has an approach that he finds works best for his lifestyle. He decided years ago that after putting in very long hours and working six- and seven-day weeks that he had paid his dues. His business was stable and he wanted to enjoy life more. So he took off extended weekends, from Friday afternoon until Tuesday morning. His wife Audrey works at the shop with him and so they both spend those long weekends together. His team members are well-

with it. From Day One she chose to work 10-hour days and only open her shop from Tuesday to Thursday. When I was at her shop last, an employee was retiring. Maria called an applicant who had applied for a position as a technician two years prior. She called to see if he still wanted to work there. He sure did!

His first week on the job was the week we conducted an onsite evaluation. He was thrilled to be working for Maria.

As for me, once my shop was up and

Larry Dickison

wanted to diversify and sell high-end vehicles. His passion is selling cars. He hired a manager and a parts manager to run the service portion of the business.

Both managers are fully content managing their own departments.

Rex is one of the most diehard entrepreneurs I’ve ever met. He started his successful repair shop more than 20 years ago. But he constantly found himself looking over the fence to see what other opportunities were out there for him to explore. He started a car rental business and started selling automotive management software. He also formed management groups for automotive repair shops. Rex has a desire to help other shop owners reach new levels of success as this is what makes him content.

running, I got a bit bored as well. The challenge seemed to fade and I was actually missing the stress of a startup.

That’s when I opened my second shop.

Once that was running smoothly, I again found that I was missing the stress factor. That’s when I started facilitating management groups throughout North America. Like Rex, I love helping people achieve their goals.

Birds spring to mind. Put another way, you’re either a hummingbird or an eagle, which are as different as night and day. Hummingbirds are constantly active and are always eating because they’re constantly moving. But eagles soar. They soar effortlessly, and they are content soaring. The bird you don’t want to be is the ostrich, which can’t fly and sometimes chooses to bury its head in the sand.

So, the question arises: what is the best approach? Which one of these shop owners has it right? The answer: all of them! Each is running their business to reach their own goals, and they are doing what strengthens them.

So, it all boils down to this: are you content with what you have?

Erol, I suggest you take a few days off from your business. Head to a hotel or cabin. Keep the BlackBerry off and don’t call the shop, because rarely do we block off time so we can think ahead and plan.

Also, if you haven’t done so, do the Strengths Finder Test from Discovering Your Strengths by Marcus Buckingham.

Determine what makes you feel strong and successful.

Above all else, make sure your business is working for you. Lead your business so that it allows you to accomplish the life that you want to live and don’t allow your business to get in the way of your dreams.

Good luck, Erol. And remember, as always, I’m 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.

DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

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The Demon

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

Do you really know what you’re getting when it comes to generic, offshore replacement parts that come in those little white boxes? Consider this: knockoff and counterfeit automotive parts can be inferior, substandard, and in some cases, downright deadly.

By David Menzies

lights. If nothing else, Las Vegas is a scintillating albeit surreal showcase of over-the-top shamelessness and selfpromotion when it comes to the fine art of imitation and duplication.

Thus, in a way, it was fitting that the Automotive Aftermarket Suppliers Association (AASA) chose to set up shop at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas last month, which was home to the massive Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo (AAPEX). For what better place to mount a campaign to draw awareness to the growing problem of counterfeit automotive parts than at a trade show staged deep within the heart of Copycat Central?

The association’s prime directive was to promote its “Know Your Parts” initiative, a campaign that was recently launched to combat the problem of knockoff auto parts of questionable quality, the sort of nasty knockoffs that continue to inundate the industry. While a fake Eiffel Tower or a phony pyramid situated on LasVegas Boulevard makes for a fun photo-op for the tourist trade, there’s precious little that’s amusing about counterfeit automotive parts – many of which are inferior, substandard, and, in some cases, potentially deadly.

Counterfeiting – of all types – is big business these days. In fact, the Federal Bureau of Investigation labels counterfeiting as the “Crime of the 21st century.” And with good reason:

Illustration: Wayne Moore

T

here’s no place on Earth like Fabulous Las Vegas, Nevada. After all, Las Vegas exists as an ever-growing urban fabrication, a fantastical facsimile of everything that has come before it. Indeed, Vegas seems to revel in its role as a copycat city, a morphing metropolis that picks and chooses whatever iconic architecture its high rollers want to assimilate.

So it is while strolling down the city’s carnival-like Strip one encounters a plethora of imitations. There’s a replica pyramid and Sphinx; a supersized pseudo-medieval castle; a half-scale Eiffel Tower; and a condensed New York City skyline, circa 1932. Then there are the replica Venetian canals, the pre-fabricated Greco-Roman columns, and even a fake, manmade volcano that diligently erupts once an hour, on the hour, five times nightly.

It’s not just the architecture that makes for a cornucopia of copies. Even some of the people found within this biosphere of the bizarre are walking, talking facsimiles. A visitor to Vegas needn’t venture far to encounter an ersatz Elvis or a bogus Beatle, either performing on a star-studded stage or busking for loose change on a city sidewalk. Even when the original artist has ascended to the great hereafter, in Las Vegas, a carbon copy lives on forever.

And yet, although fakery runs the table in Las Vegas, there’s a measure of irony to be found here. For it soon dawns on an observer that because Las Vegas is such a shameless copy of everything that has come before it, the city is, by default, one of the most unique and whollyoriginal places on the planet. It is as if this city – impossibly-located smack dab in the Mohave Desert – has an unofficial mission statement to celebrate fakery by putting it on display and bathing it in the manmade glow of millions of pulsating

counterfeiting, when coupled with piracy, costs the United States economy alone between US$200 billion and US$250 billion per year, according to the U.S. Chamber of Commerce’s Global Intellectual Property Center.

Counterfeiting and piracy are also

in the Box

directly responsible for the loss of more than 750,000 American jobs. (In Canada, the Canadian AntiCounterfeiting Network notes that the sale of counterfeit products – ranging from phony Rolex wristwatches to pirated Disney DVDs – totals about $30

billion per year.)

In the automotive aftermarket, observers note that counterfeit replacement parts are being sold in record numbers. The inventory of fakes includes everything from spark plugs that overheat (and may lead to fires) to

brake linings that are made out of compressed sawdust.

According to the Federal Trade Commission and the World Customs Organization in Interpol, the global counterfeit vehicle parts trade is now pegged at US$12 billion per year (more than US$3 billion in North America alone.)

What ends up getting stopped at the border is a proverbial trickle. The value of counterfeit auto components seized

by U.S. customs officials in 2007 totaled just US$845,094 (no Canadian figures are available.) That’s a mere fraction of the fakes that make it onto shelves – and into cars – each year.

Indeed, between 2001 and 2006, General Motors alone conducted 1,000 investigations and seized US$44 million in counterfeit auto parts – again, a small fraction of the bogus GM parts circulating in the marketplace.

The situation will liken worsen before it improves. Armed with cutting-edge technology and cheap labour – and unburdened by anything that even resembles a code of ethics – counterfeiters show no signs of relenting. Most of the counterfeit merchandise (approximately 80%) comes from China, although other major producers/exporters include the likes of Taiwan, Russia, India, Pakistan and Uruguay.

However, a shop owner purchasing a bargain basement knockoff auto part that is of dubious quality is surely playing with fire. For example, that fake Rolex which will eventually stop ticking amounts to a cheap wristwatch on the fritz. As such, it poses no real harm. However, when it comes to bogus auto parts, the failure of an important part can result in a serious accident. Indeed, it’s sobering to note that one independent research study DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

17

Belt tensioners: can you spot the fake?

recently revealed that in a sample of 420 fatal crashes, about 25% of the crashes were attributed to vehicle defects.

Amid growing numbers of safetyrelated recalls of potentially defective parts – coupled with the aging vehicle population and ramped-up offshore manufacturing – the importance of vehicle parts safety has never been more profound. And yet, the AASA notes with justifiable concern that certain aftermarket businesses continue to jeopardize the industry’s good reputation by selling and installing cheap, inferior parts that in some cases are literally accidents waiting to happen.

Indeed, the AASA’s Know Your Parts exhibit at AAPEX was an eyebrowraising show-and-tell session. Dozens of parts were on display – the Real McCoys stacked up against their cheap doppelgangers. And upon examination, it is readily apparent that not all parts are created equal. Indeed, Jack Cameron, a VP with the AASA, was only too happy to point out the glaring differences between the bona fide and the bogus.

First up: a fake ACDelco oil filter.

While the fake filter resembles the genuine article in terms of size, shape and colour, as is so often the case with counterfeit merchandise, appearances can be deceiving.Thanks to the genuine and fake ACDelco oil filters being sliced in half as if they were a pair of metallic melons, one quickly discovers there’s a world of difference between the legitimate part and the woeful knockoff. For example, the fake filter features an element that is half as thick and is far

Outside, these AC Delco oil filters are idetical. Inside... not so much.

less dense. As well, the quality of the paper element is suspect. Finally, for whatever reason – be it cost-cutting or simply incompetence – the fake filter’s rubber seal is missing. As always, it’s what’s inside that counts. That said, this particular counterfeit oil filter is virtually worthless. Some bargain.

Other knockoffs on display are also sad-sack specimens. As anyone who has worked on cars knows full well, the holy trinity of an automotive aftermarket part is fit, form, and function.

Meatloaf once opined in song that “Two out of three ain’t bad;” but when it comes to vehicle parts, any technician who takes pride in his work will settle for nothing less than getting all three attributes right. But in regard to the numerous knockoffs on the market, unpleasant surprises often lurk within those little Pandora-like white boxes.

Cameron points to a pair of knockoff strut mounts that, at first blush, appear to be identical – after all, both strut mounts originate from the same manufacturer. Yet, although each strut bears the same part number, upon closer scrutiny, the struts are inexplicably riddled with numerous inconsistencies.

For starters, Cameron points to a few offshore-sourced alternators that are also substandard. Simply put, an alternator’s bearing design is critical when it comes to such a part functioning properly. However, even when the counterfeiters embrace reverseengineering, they make mistakes – or simply choose to cut corners.

“The wrong recipe does not work,”

says Cameron, noting the knockoff alternator he’s holding is peppered with flaws ranging from the radial clearance to seal design.

Perhaps the most egregious example of a crumby counterfeit was the “value grade” belt tensioner on display. Gates, which manufactures the genuine article, acquired the knockoff of its belt tensioner and had its engineers perform a “snap” test procedure on the part. The test is meant to simulate an accidental release of the tensioner arm during belt installation.

The knockoff failed with flying colours.

For starters, measurement of the tensioner load revealed torque levels as much as 8% below the minimum load specified by the Gates original equipment (OE) design. As well, measurement of tensioner damping was as much as 54% below the minimum benchmark. And dynamic testing revealed premature wear of critical internal components.

But one needn’t have an engineering degree to see how badly this so-called “value grade” tensioner failed. That’s because upon the test’s conclusion, the knockoff belt tensioner was sporting a jagged crack big enough to rival the fracture found on the Liberty Bell.

Cameron notes the knockoff problem isn’t going away anytime soon.

In 1998, so-called “value lines” of parts accounted for about 10% of the automotive parts market; today, that figure stands at approximately 30%.

“Left unchecked,” he says, “it’s definitely going to get worse.”

Yet, despite the potential risks and DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

19

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the economic damage, there appears to be a dearth of political will when it comes to addressing the problem. The AASA points out that merchandise ranging from food to health and beauty products require government approval as well as a list of ingredients on the label. However, very few automotive parts require government approval or are subject to safety regulations. Indeed, generic auto parts don’t even come with material/safety specifications – if anything is printed on the box, it’s typically marketing bravado.

Still, observers note the appeal of such products boils down to price.

Knockoffs manufactured overseas are vastly cheaper, and some parts resellers fall back on these so-called “white box” (generic) parts to help boost revenues.

While the profit margin for a shop on brand name auto parts typically ranges from 30% to 40%, margins on private label merchandise can exceed 70%.

Meanwhile, back at the Sands Expo

Center, over at the Delphi Product & Service Solutions booth, president Frank Ordonez acknowledged that Delphi, too, has been hit by offshore fakes.

Similar to the knockoffs on display at the AASA booth, most of the Delphi knockoffs look legitimate, but in reality, such counterfeit merchandise literally amounts to so much junk in the trunk.

Exhibit One: Ordonez points to a manifold absolute pressure (MAP) sensor for mid-size V6-equipped GM cars and trucks. To the naked eye, the knockoff looks virtually identical to the genuine Delphi product (even though the knockoff sells for 75% less.)

But as always, you get what you pay for.

That’s because upon closer examination, the knockoff is missing two connector keys and the connector itself is flat whereas it should be tapered.

Ordonez also notes the knockoff sensor is missing its ECM interface, and the solder connections are exposed (if this were a genuine Delphi part, it

Making the Right Choice Given that repair professionals buy through a parts reseller, it’s important they make the right choice when choosing products for installation. According to the AASA, here’s how to ensure you’re picking the right brands: ■ Use a trusted name part. Don’t take risks on generic or unfamiliar brands.

■ Ask a more experienced technician what brand to use – don’t be afraid to ask advice or admit you don’t know.

■ Do your research. The Internet is just a click away, and there are numerous resources to find out which part is best.

■ “Parts is parts” was an amusing slogan to describe chicken nuggets; never assume all auto parts are the same.

■ Participate in trade shows, reseller shows and trade fairs. You can always learn something new.

■ Read industry magazines.

■ Stay in touch with your mentors, teachers and faculty.

■ Join a trade association. It is another superb source for information and advice from industry peers and experts.

■ Call on the parts manufacturer. They are willing to help you thanks to websites and tollfree numbers that at your disposal. If you can’t find these resources for a particular parts manufacturer, chances are that part isn’t the right choice.

■ Trust your instincts. If you suspect the part isn’t high quality, you’re probably right.

And keep in mind that age old caveat emptor saying: “If it looks too good to be true…”

would have encapsulated welds.)

What does it all mean? To be charitable, the shoddy workmanship means the knockoff Delphi MAP sensor “is guaranteed to have an extremely limited life expectancy,” says Ordonez.

MAP sensors aren’t the only items giving Ordonez grief these days.

Recently, Delphi looked at six aftermarket ignition coils, all of which are cheap rip-offs of Delphi’s offerings.

“Four of the coils failed early once installed,” says Ordonez. “The remaining two actually failed right out of the box.”

But Ordonez wasn’t the least bit surprised with the poor test results.

“A ridiculously-low part price should be the first red flag,” he says.

“Technicians must know how parts affect the safety and performance of a vehicle. Hey, that OE vehicle wasn’t built with low-cost, poor quality parts for a reason.”

Unfortunately, these days, nothing is immune from being mimicked by flyby-night, offshore companies that often botch the reverse-engineering process.

John Rylee, director of marketing for the Vehicle Service Group (which is made up of eight vehicle lifting and collision repair brands including Rotary Lift, Revolution, and DirectLift), says he’s seen numerous “scary” knockoff lifts find their way into North American repair shops in recent years.

“Some guys [shop owners] think [a lift] is just three pieces of steel anchored to the ground,” says Rylee. “There’s a lot more to a lift than that.”

Indeed, Rylee has seen knockoff lifts shipped without crucial parts.

Sometimes lifts have cables that are short by as much as half a metre. It’s no surprise, really, given that an overriding problem when it comes to knockoff lifts hailing from “Parts Unknown” is that such equipment isn’t submitted to testing – nor do these lifts come with valid warranties. Needless to say, knockoff products do not adhere to the standards of the Automotive Lift Institute.

For his part, Rylee finds it staggering that some shop owners – just to save a few bucks – will entrust a lift with a DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

21

Busted: AAPEX officials confiscate wiper blades from the Yada booth as the Yada mascot haplessly looks on. Robert Bosch LLC alleges Yada’s blades infringe its patented wiper blade design, and is taking legal action.

dubious pedigree given that this device will be hoisting a vehicle weighing thousands of pounds over a technician’s head. Surely no shop owner wants to learn the hard way that such a vital piece of equipment is substandard and ultimately prone to failure.

Safety concerns aside, Brian Isaac, a lawyer with the Canadian Anti-Counterfeiting Network, notes that counterfeiting is in no way a so-called “victimless crime.” For example, in some cases, the individuals running the counterfeit trade are members of organized crime rings, ranging from the Mafia to various Asian Triads. Even more alarming, some of the proceeds from the counterfeit trade have gone toward funding terrorist groups. For example, it’s now known that the 1993 World Trade Center bombing was partly financed through the sale of counterfeit clothes such as fake Nike T-shirts. According to Interpol, an Al-Qaeda training manual actually recommends the sale of bogus merchandise as a proven fundraising method.

Geopolitical ramifications aside, down on the shop floor, one must ponder if saving a few dollars is truly worth the potential trouble one might incur by using inferior parts. The AASA’s Cameron notes that buying substandard auto parts can ultimately be an exercise in self-defeating economics. True, a fake part might be discounted by as much as 80%. But Cameron questions what sort of savings are achieved if the return rate on certain lines of parts “is at least 90%.... comebacks to the shop are costly.”

Then there are the intangible costs to consider – such as continued on page 26 DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

23

Transmissions: The Next Generation Transmission technology has grown by leaps and bounds in recent years. But fasten your seatbelts: even more transmission innovations are on the way.

By Jeff Taylor ne of the greatest challenges automakers face is the need to lower emissions and CO2 output. The use of the internal combustion engine is going to be here for awhile; while improvements to its operation will remain an ongoing battle.

However, the way the engine transmits power to the road is going to change and improve the vehicle’s emissions and CO2 footprint.The transmission as we know it is undergoing a tremendous transformation. And some of the technology headed our way is truly incredible.

The type of transmission that we have grown accustomed to is changing.

There was a time when you had just two options: manual or automatic.

These two styles worked well in their day but now there are demands to squeeze every ounce of power and performance out of each drop of fuel and produce as few emissions as possible. This is changing the way engineers look at the transmission.

Let’s look at what’s currently available and what is being developed.

The Manual Transmission (MT) is dying in the North American market; indeed, 90% of all vehicles will be automatics by 2015.

The market for MTs will grow in emerging markets such as China, Russia

O

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

and India, were cost and vehicle size are important concerns. But even in shifthappy European markets the MT will decline in usage as stricter emission and CO2 laws are enacted.

The Automatic Transmission (AT) has always been very popular in North America, and the AT still fits well in the truck market and some car applications.

The issue with the existing AT format is: inefficiency, comfort, and fuel economy. Let’s examine the two most popular formats: Rear Wheel Drive (RWD): The RWD AT has seen the increase from three-speeds to four- and five-speeds as well as the addition of lock-up torque convertors. These were all improvements, but were still lacking efficiency.

In 2001, the ZF Company of Germany introduced the first six-speed AT; it was smaller and lighter than its fivespeed.These factors lead to an increase in acceleration and fuel economy.

Development has not slowed on

The twin dual wet clutch used in the Ford Focus (European model.)

the AT segment; the trend is to more forward gears, the better use of electronics and the use of different materials. There are more seven- and eight-speed ATs available now – and not just in the European and Japanese luxury car market.The 2013 models of the Chrysler 300/Dodge Charger/Challenger and the Jeep Grand Cherokee will be equipped with the ZF manufactured eight-speed automatic.

Front Wheel Drive (FWD): The FWD AT has followed the lead of the RWD, the addition of more forward speeds and torque converter management has led to vast improvements in fuel economy. Both Ford and GM are offering the new six-speed FWD AT in models currently available (co-developed by both companies.) The first model was used in the Saturn Aura and the Ford Edge.

This new transmission delivers a 4% to 6% improvement in fuel efficiency compared to a typical four- or fivespeed FWD AT.

The twin dry clutch found in the Ford Power Shift transmission in the 2010 Ford Focus.

The Automated Manual Transmission or (AMT) is a group of transmission designs that are getting a lot of attention – and for good reason. An AMT delivers superior better fuel economy, lower emissions and still allow for high torque transfer in a performance automobile. There are two different designs currently being used; while another remains on the drawing board awaiting development.

Dual-Clutch Transmissions or (DCT) is a very popular style of a high performance AMT. It provides the efficiency of a MT gearbox and with the current state of electronic controls allows for an exciting drive experience.

The DCT can be driven as an automatic, semi-automatic or as a manual.The DCT can also be known as the direct shift, power shift or the twin clutch transmission, but most of in internal workings are similar. The DCT combines the fuel economy of a manual transmission with the smoothness and ease of operation of an AT. The DCT is becoming more popular in Europe as VW pioneers the devel-

opment of its DSG (Direct Shift One major problem with the CVT Gearbox) six-speed. Ford has adopted design is its power limits: they are lower the DCT in Europe already and this than the other styles of AMT. transmission will debut here Developments in lubricant, metallurgy with the new Fiesta. The Ford and belt/chain design is slowly Powershift is a six-speed dry increasing the amount of power the clutch DCT that is 30 lbs.

CVT can handle. The CVT is almost lighter and 9% better on fuel always related to the “snowmobile then the existing four-speed AT. transmission” as it uses two rotating Ford also goes on to note the sleeves to transmit and receive the following attributes of its power output of the engine. The CVT Powershift: provides an infinite number of forward speeds and no shift shock, but these ■ The clutches are disengaged advantages have led to customer during a coast down if the complaints. The engineers have brakes are applied, resulting in developed shift feel patterns and have longer clutch life and better fuel taken the added engine noise into economy. consideration.

■ Better clutch control for improved Nissan, Honda and Ford all currently noise, vibration and harshness at low have models in their fleets. Industry speed and fuel economy. insiders don’t currently believe that the ■ Built-in creep feature the gives the CVT is the answer. illusion of an AT. This incorporates The Infinitely Variable Transbrake application and torque is adjusted as the brake is released. This works in mission or (IVT) is really just a CVT but uses variators. These are drive and reverse. discs that run in GM, Chrysler, and contact between other major two dished manufactures are clutch plates, planning on impletransferring the menting the use of power from the the DCT in some of input plate to the their vehicles over the output plate thus next couple of years. acting like a torque The Continuously Variable Transmission, convertor. The IVT or CVT, is another type of also incorporates a AMT. It provides added gearbox and this power, better fuel The entire Ford Power Shift allows for a higher economy and a smoother transmission, completely assemoutput ratio then the driving experience than a bled, sealed and maintenance-free. standard CVT. The result is that the IVT is traditional AT. The power more efficient and and economy advantages should have better fuel economy then are gained by keeping the engine in it the current CVT design. GM has looked optimum power band for a longer at this style but no manufacture has period of time. There are two adopted the technology yet. different designs in the current CVT Jeff Taylor is a technician at Eccles Auto unit; the belt (or chain) design and Service in Dundas, Ont. the toroidal design.

DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

25

continued from page 23 the damage to a shop’s reputation. The AASA conducted a recent study that indicated if a consumer has a bad experience involving the quality of a car part at an independent service shop, that vehicle owner will likely seek out a car dealership when it comes to future service. The reason: the consumer now has the erroneous mindset that only original equipment

parts are actually legitimate replacement parts.

Also, if things really go south, consider the liability factor. Tort laws provide that any seller of a product, not just the manufacturer, is liable for losses, injury or damage caused by a defective part. An injured party may file suit against the reseller of the product without even naming the manufacturer. In fact, if the

Paying a price when the job goes awry There are often hidden costs associated with using shoddy or counterfeit auto parts.

For starters, a shop can count on a time-consuming come-back if a knockoff replacement part fails in the early going. And then there’s the damage to the shop’s reputation.

However, when it comes to safety, there are liability issues to contend with as well. For example, if a part failure is the catalyst for a serious accident, Brian Isaac of the Canadian Anti-Counterfeiting Network, says the aggrieved party could conceivably sue several individuals for monetary damages, including the person who performed the work; the shop owner; the parts distributor; and the manufacturer of the part (the latter party may prove difficult to sue if the manufacturer is an offshore company; thus, the installer can expect to be a prime target of such a civil action.)

But a question arises: in addition to civil litigation and toxic publicity, could a technician and/or shop owner also face criminal charges? Perhaps.

Just consider the sensational case of Mark Fabian (pictured), a Pittsburgh area technician who was sentenced earlier this month to 2 1/2½ to 5 years in prison because he failed to repair the brakes of a school van.

The details: Fabian was a mechanic for A-1 Transit in Pittsburgh. On Sept. 3, 2008, Jennifer Logan, one of the drivers for the company, was driving a minivan with two special needs children on it. After her morning shift was over, she complained to Fabian that the brakes on the Dodge Caravan she was driving weren’t working properly. When Logan returned to do her afternoon shift, she was incorrectly informed that the van was good to go. Logan drove the van to pick up the two boys, age six and 10, as well as a student aide.

Tragically, the brakes failed and the van ended up colliding head-on with a tree.

The student aide, Colleen Visconti, 53, died from injuries she sustained in the crash nine days later.

As for Fabian, the technician was convicted on one count of involuntary manslaughter and four counts of recklessly endangering another person. For reasons known only to Fabian, he simply chose not to fix, or, apparently, inspect the brakes.

What can the automotive aftermarket learn from the Fabian case? In theory, if a vehicle is repaired with a shoddy counterfeit part and that part goes on to experience catastrophic failure (thereby causing the vehicle to crash), legal observers believe this could make for fertile grounds in terms of pursuing criminal as well as civil litigation.

In this respect, the Fabian case makes for a cautionary tale – be it for those who choose to cut corners by declining to perform necessary work, or for those using a knockoff part that is, quite literally, an accident waiting to happen.

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

offshore manufacturer does not have a legal presence in the country where the part was used, then the reseller stands alone in the case. Even more sobering: there’s also the potential for criminal liability should an injury or fatality occur (please see sidebar, “Paying a price when the job goes awry.”)

And it’s not just the consumer who’s at risk thanks to subpar parts: consider the possibility of personal injury to the technician when installing an inferior replacement part. After all, many catastrophic failures happen immediately after the part is installed or when the vehicle is started.That means potentially lethal projectiles could be launched in the bays.

In the final analysis, until various government bodies and regulators get serious about counterfeiting and intellectual property violations, legitimate parts makers will simply have to take it upon themselves to fight the fraudsters.

Indeed, at AAPEX last month, a degree of drama played out on the show floor as AAPEX officials raided more than a dozen booths to confiscate wiper blades that Robert Bosch LLC alleged infringed its patents. Not only were the offending wiper blades yanked from displays, but Bosch also filed lawsuits against the perceived offenders in Federal District Court in Las Vegas. At a hastily called press conference, Odd Joergunrud, Bosch’s regional president for the automotive aftermarket in North America, noted that Bosch is continuing to monitor activities in the aftermarket and the company “will take appropriate action to stop any infringing activity.”

Bottom line: while they say imitation is the sincerest form of flattery, legitimate automotive parts manufacturers insist they could do without such debilitating compliments. And for shop owners, it’s worth noting that when it comes to auto parts that are cheap knockoffs or blatantly inferior counterfeits the low price inherent to such merchandise often comes at a very high cost indeed.

PRODUCT CENTRAL drawers (3-inch and 5-inch drawer depth) that span the full width of the roll cab; Corner gusset design strengthens the roll cab without reducing storage capacity; Heavy-duty drawer slides support up to 261 lbs. per set; An additional set of slides can be added to any 4-inch or deeper drawer (standard on 5-inch full width drawer); Lock ’n Roll system prevents drawers from drifting open when the unit is moved. www.snapon.com

Press Arm Upgrade Kit

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To enhance the capabilities of the TC3700 and TC3500 tire changers, Hunter now offers a new bead press arm upgrade kit to help service difficult wheel and tire combinations. The Bead Press Arm pushes and holds stiff sidewalls in the drop-centre position of a rim as the wheel rotates to ease demounting or mounting and greatly reduce stress to the bead and operator. The upgrade kit works with all current and preceding Hunter TC3700 and TC3500 tire changer models. www.hunter.com

Rotary Lift’s award-winning Y-Lift is now available as a general service model (Y12) to improve productivity and profitability throughout the shop.The YLift is a drive-on lift that uses a patented design and unique Y-shaped legs to provide faster rise/descent speeds and better vehicle access than traditional

Roll Cab Available in 11 Colours Snap-on is now offering its versatile KRL722A Roll Cab in 11 colours, giving you some “bright” tool storage

options to liven up the shop. The available colours are red, green mica, gloss black, royal blue, ultra yellow, candy apple red, electric orange, arctic silver, deep cranberry, deep purple and extreme green. Features of the Snap-on KRL722A Roll Cab include: Extended cab system features two extra wide

scissor or four-post lifts. The new Y12 flat top model offers all the productivity benefits of the alignment version for other service and repair applications including quick-service operations, undercarriage and exhaust work, and jobs requiring loaded suspensions. With the addition of optional air jacks, the YLift can be used to improve productivity for most maintenance and repair tasks.

As well, the Y-Lift’s weight-sensing control system maximizes rise speed based on the weight of the vehicle being lifted. For most vehicles, the rise time will be around 37 seconds, which is up to 50% faster than scissor and fourpost lifts with the same 12,000-lb. capacity.

Wiper Blades The new Michelin Stealth hybrid blade’s flex design allows the blade to fit the windshield better for superior windshield contact, for clean, powerful and consistent wipes year round. Other

unique features of the Stealth hybrid blade include: A protective cover shields components and helps prevent snow, ice and debris buildup for clean, powerful wipes and reliable all-weather performance. An integrated aerodynamic spoiler converts air flow over vehicle into downward force to help the blade maintain contact and reduce lift and vibration, especially in windy

weather and at highway speeds. And Michelin’s EZ-LOK Connector System allows easy and quick installation and fits more than 98% of passenger cars and light trucks in North America. www.michelinstealthblade.com

BUSINESS FOR SALE Busy, profitable, automotive service facility & retail parts business for sale.

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DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

27

WIN

ENTER FOR A CHANCE TO WIN A GOODYEAR PRIZE PACK. Send your solved puzzle to Canadian Technician.

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

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

Name: Workplace: Work address: Phone:

Email:

AUTO PUZZLE DECEMBER 2010 1

Responsible choices & smart maintenance keep you coming back for more.

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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 March 31, 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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Snowmobile Belts The only snowmobile belt with CARBON FIBRE REINFORCEMENT for MAXIMUM PERFORMANCE and MINIMUM BELT WEAR

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ACROSS 1. Automotive aficionado, in other words (3,4) 5. Given name, ‘08 Indy 500 racer Fisher 8. Word on Hawaii’s plates 9. Pre-owned vehicle (4,3) 10. Really wrote off a ride 11. Brand on Duke boys’ General Lee 12. County-fair event (7,4) 17. CD-player button 19. ‘79-’81 full-size Dodge sedan (2,5) 21. Rolls-Royce cars’ homeland 22. Briefly, US crash-test agency (1,1,1,1,1) 23. Slangy synonym for snowmobiles 24. See “The ____ State” plates in Arkansas

Call 1-888-275-4397 to find a distributor near you. Or, visit

www.goodyearep.com/snowmobile The GOODYEAR (and Winged Foot Design) trademark is used

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Goodyear Engineered Products are manufactured and sourced exclusively by Veyance Technologies, Inc. or its affiliates.

The Gatorback trademark is licensed to Veyance Technologies, Inc. by The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. ©2010 Veyance Technologies, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

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CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

to Rick Gallicano of Midtown Truck Services of Vancouver for solving our September, 2010 puzzle.

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DOWN 1. Rolls along in neutral 2. American Austin Bantam radiator mascot 3. Name on DIY moving truck, maybe (1,4) 4. Family-vehicle choice, for many (4,4,5) 5. Accelerate (5,2) 6. Ran for pinks 7. Hudson, AMC and Wolseley model 13. An old Olds 14. Ashtray adjunct 15. Taxi equipment 16. Homeland of ‘60s Sabra sports car 18. Defunct AMC and Chrysler brand 20. Surname, posthumous F1 champ Jochen

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QUESTION OF THE MONTH What was the best advice you ever received about this trade?

continued from page 30

ADVERTISER INDEX

backward when Tooner energized the starter. Raw fuel had come squirting out of the cylinder, hitting him squarely in the face.

“Whoa, Nelly, that’s a lot of fuel!” He wiped his face with a rag.

“No wonder Todd is smelling gasoline.” Standing to the side, he had Tooner crank the engine again to confirm that there was no spark.

Tooner clambered out of the car and came around for a look. “Say, what’s that noise?” He had left the key on, and we could hear the fuel injectors pulsing away as they slowly but surely filled up the cylinders with fuel.

“What the…”Tooner turned off the key and went to find the scan tool. When it was connected and the key was turned on again, he discovered that the data stream read 625 rpm – and the car wasn’t even running! “How in tarnation is that possible? Somehow this bucket of bolts thinks it’s gettin’ a crank signal. That’s why it’s pulsin’ the injectors.” He scratched the back of his head. “Wonder if we got ourselves a bum computer.”

Basil ambled over, swirling the coffee around in his cup. “Perhaps.

However, if you recall, Texas Todd was in last month with some wiring problems. I’d be inclined to check your fence lines, cowpoke.

You just might find some strays.”

Tooner shot him a sideways glance. “Come again?”

I chuckled. “What he means is, you might have some ‘chaffing’ problems with the wires – and we all know how troublesome they can be.”

Tooner muttered a few unwholesome phrases under his breath, but began to check the wiring harnesses. It didn’t take long to locate the problem.

The old Buick used a dual hall-effect crank sensor, and when Tooner jiggled the wires from the ignition module, the injectors would stop pulsing. As he followed the harness downwards, he discovered some melted wires. Apparently the two signal wires from the crank sensor were bare and touching against each other and to ground, creating the false RPM signal. This, in turn, triggered the injectors and the fuel pump.

Texas Todd was mighty pleased when we called him up later to report that his faithful old Buick was back in harness and ready to ride the range once more. “Well, I’ll be a mare’s uncle,” he exclaimed, slapping Tooner on the back. “That’s some might fine diagnosin’ there, pardner. I owe ya one.” He paused. “Say, I hear tell you like a good horse hide under yer chaps. How’s about comin’ over to the farm on Saturday? My buddies and I are gonna do a little trail ridin’ up in the hills and there’s room for one more bedroll around the campfire. Can ya play the harmonica?”

Tooner groaned, and reluctantly agreed to go along. I don’t know about the harmonica, but I’m fairly certain he’ll be singing the blues.

AIA Canada .........................18 www.aiacanada.com 800-808-2920 Bars Products – Rislone.......23 www.rislone.ca

Blue Streak-Hygrade..............3 www.bluestreak.ca

COASTAL Blending & Packaging ...20 www.coastalbp.com 800-574-5823 Delphi Products...................31 www.delphi.com

Goodyear ............................28 www.goodyearep.com 888-275-4397 Imperial Oil – Mobil ...........4, 5 www.mobil.ca 800-567-3776 NGK Spark Plugs Canada.....22 www.ngksparkplugs.ca 1-877-2-SPARKY Snap-On Tools of Canada .......2

Rick Cogbill is a licensed technician and former shop owner in Summerland, B.C. Special thanks to Instructor Todd Green and the Third Year Apprenticeship Class at the Southern Alberta Institute of Technology in Calgary, Alberta for this months technical mystery.

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.

www.snapon.com 1-800-734-2676 WorldPac ........................6, 32

WORLDPAC

www.worldpac.ca 800-463-8749

DECEMBER 2010 CANADIAN TECHNICIAN

29

The Car Side

By Rick Cogbill

The Mysterious Case of the Phantom Tach Attack “Is something wrong,Tooner? You’re walking a little funny.”

Our grizzled technician scowled as he limped by. “T’ain’t nothin’ wrong – just a rock in my boot…or somethin’…” As Tooner made his way painfully out to the shop, I turned to Basil for a better explanation. He usually knows what’s really going on.

Basil smiled. “What Tooner doesn’t want to tell you is that he went horseback riding on the weekend, something he hasn’t done for 20 years.”

“Horseback riding?” queried Beanie. “Hey, I remember now. Didn’t Tooner grow up on the Prairies?”

Basil opened up the morning paper and found the crossword puzzle. “Yes, but that was a long time ago. He was roping cows long before you were a gleam in your mother’s eye.”

I laughed. “And I’ll bet he thought he could just climb on up and ride like he used to.”

“Apparently so.” Basil wrote in the answer for 32 Across – Foolhardy. “And I suspect that this morning he’s feeling a little chaffed in the skivvies. Probably best if we leave him alone.”

Well, that wasn’t going to happen. I guess you could say we “rode him a little hard” all morning – we just couldn’t resist.

“Hey, Toon, wanna ‘corral’ that Mustang outside and bring it in? I hear the little filly is hesitating at stop signs!”

“Yo, Tooner; it’s Herkle’s Auto Parts on the phone…they want to know what ‘brand’ of brake rotors you want!”

We were running out of puns by noon, when Texas Todd strode into the shop. Decked out in shiny black cowboy boots 30

CANADIAN TECHNICIAN DECEMBER 2010

and a large white Stetson, Todd was a real cowboy, recently retired from a large ranch in the southern States.

“Howdy, Slim.” Todd smoothed out his handlebar moustache. “Got me a little problem with my ride. Can you fellers fit ’er in today?”

Out in the parking lot, Dutchy was busy unloading Texas Todd’s ’93 Buick LeSabre from his deck truck. The tired old car had been ridden hard and put away wet. “Sure. What have you got,Todd?”

Texas Todd looked around for a spittoon, but couldn’t find one. Consequently, my garbage can got a liquid dose of chewing tobacco. Todd wiped a sleeve across his mouth.

“Don’t rightly know, Slim. She ran just fine yesterday, but this morning she wouldn’t start. An’ I can smell lots of gas comin’ from somewhere.” He handed me a set of keys. “I know she’s gittin’ old, but she’s my favourite. Got anybody who knows these old nags?”

I glanced over at Tooner, who was wincing his way towards the lunchroom. “I’ll put my top hand on it right away.”

A little while later, Tooner eased his way into the driver’s seat of Todd’s Buick with a groan. “Okay, watch yer knuckles,” he called out as he prepared to crank the engine over.

Beanie had removed one of the front spark plugs and laid it on the exhaust manifold, still connected to the ignition wire.

His plan was to watch for spark, so he had his face down close to the spark plug hole. Which is why he yelled and jumped continued on page 29

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