Service Station & Garage Management April 2011

SSGM Service Station and Garage Management READ BY AUTOMOTIVE REPAIR SHOP OWNERS AND TECHNICIANS SINCE 1955

APRIL 2011

Giving The Cold Shoulder To Summer Fuel System Diagnosis

Taking The Dexos Challenge

www.ssgm.com

p 01 cover.indd 1

12/04/11 7:16 AM

FEWER STEPS. MORE PROFiT.

PROBLEM:

WhEN WAS thE LASt tiME A tROUBLE tREE GOt YOU tO A cONFiRMED FiX iN FEWER thAN 5 StEPS? Direct-Hit™ is your best source for proven short-cut tests and experienced-based fixes – sometimes in as little as five steps! And the faster you fix it, the more profitable your shop.

Call 800-745-9649 today for your no-obligation,

2007 Chevrolet Tahoe “Service Engine Soon” warning lamp on with P0171, P0174

DiREct-hit DiAGNOStic StEPS: 1. Verify the fuel pressure is 50-60 PSI. If the pressure is low, verify the fuel pump has a good power supply on the Gray wire and a good ground on the Black wire.

2. Check for wire harness damage from being routed too close to the front driveshaft.

3. Using the scan tool Fuel Trim parameters, disconnect the Mass Air flow Sensor. If the Fuel Trim values return to normal, check for any unmetered air leaks.

4. Block off the PCV tube and the brake booster hose. If the numbers return to normal, check for air leaks in either of those areas. Refer to TSB 08-06-04-016.

5. Inspect for injector wires being connected to the wrong injectors per TSB 06-06-04-001A.

FREE FIX* and discover how easy it is to grow your business with Direct-Hit!

cONFiRMED FiX:

Replace the fuel pump (old one had only 45 PSI )

*Not valid for Repair Hotline.

80 0.745.9649

p 02 Identifix ad.indd 2

|

identifix.com

05/04/11 12:57 PM

NGK 164 Akebono brake ad Solid colours_FNL 08/04/11 10:35 AM Page 1

Premium Brake Products

helps reduce elbow grease.

NO DIRTY RIMS. NO SQUEALING. NO FADE. NO CALLBACKS. THAT’S AKEBONO ULTRA PREMIUM BRAKE PADS. As OEM equipment on a wide range of models, Akebono ultra premium brake products are specifically engineered for superior performance. With their low dust, reduced brake fade and ultra quiet formulations, these true* ceramic pads give you ultra premium brake product backed by the industry’s most comprehensive research and development.

The result is higher margins, fewer comebacks, and the perfect OEM fit every time.

Ask your NGK distributor for Akebono ultra premium brake parts today!

Now available from NGK Spark Plugs Canada Limited Contact us at: 1-877-477-7780

®

www.ngksparkplugs.ca *Akebono is the originator of true ceramic brake pads.

p 03 NGK ad.indd 3

11/04/11 8:05 AM

SSGM what’s inside April 2011

Vol. 41 No. 3

Service Station and Garage Management

EDITOR Tom Venetis (416) 510-6790 tom@ssgm.com TECHNICAL EDITOR Jim Anderton jim@ssgm.com PUBLISHER Marc Gadbois (416) 510-6776 marc@ssgm.com SALES MANAGER Jay Armstrong (416) 510-6745 ACCOUNT MANAGER Jim Petsis (416) 510-6842

CIRCULATION MANAGER Selina Rahaman (416) 442-5600 ext 3528 srahaman@bizinfogroup.ca SUBSCRIPTION ENQUIRIES Roshni Thava (416) 442-5600 ext 3555 ART DIRECTOR Ron Taylor PRODUCTION MANAGER Steve Hofmann (416) 510-6757

See Page 14

PRINT PRODUCTION MANAGER Phyllis Wright

See Page 20

VICE PRESIDENT CANADIAN PUBLISHING Alex Papanou

Oil Report What is happening with dexos?

PRESIDENT BUSINESS INFORMATION GROUP Bruce Creighton

Tackling some of the questions with this new oil spec. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

Fuel System Diagnosis

AWARD-WINNING MAGAZINE

Electrical problems can be just as debilitating as contamination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

Air Conditioning Special Report New standards, challenges for A/C maintenance. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26

Phil Sasso How to use search engine ranking to bring in more customers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

TACT Team Management Don’t let them see you sweat. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36

Departments Editorial. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6 News. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 Jim’s Rant. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30 Baywatch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44 CARS on Demand. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 45 Garage of the Year Nomination. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52 Internet Directory. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54 Advertiser Index. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

*For BlackBerrys: Go to your BlackBerry messenger and select Scan Barcode. *For iPhones: Use the App Store to download Beetagg Reader Pro.

4 SSGM April 2011

p 04 contents.indd 4

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

HEAD OFFICE Business Information Group 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, ON M3C 4J2 Contact us via one of the following methods: Telephone: 416-442-5600 Facsimile: 416-510-5169 Website: www.ssgm.com Service Station and Garage Management is published

by BIG Magazines LP, a div. of Glacier BIG Holdings Company Ltd., a leading Cana­dian information company with interests in daily and community news­papers and business-to-business information services.

Subscription rates: Canada $51.95 + HST + applicable taxes per year; $82.95 + HST + applicable taxes for 2 years; single copy price $7.00 + $0.42 HST + applicable taxes. USA $91.95US per year; single copy price $10.00US. All other foreign in US $93.95 per year. All rights reserved. Printed in Canada.

US office of publication: 2424 Niagara Falls Blvd, Niagara Falls, NY 14304-5709. Periodicals Postage Paid at Niagara Falls, NY. USPS #009-192. US postmaster: Send address changes to Service Station and Garage Management, PO Box 1118, Niagara Falls, NY 14304.

Return undeliverable Canadian addresses to: Circulation Dept., Service Station and Garage Management, 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, ON Canada M3C 4J2.

Postmaster: please forward forms 29B and 67B to 12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, Toronto, ON Canada M3C 4J2.

Printed in Canada. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be re­produced either in part or in full without the consent of the copyright owner.

From time to time we make our subscription list available to select companies and organizations whose product or service may interest you. If you do not wish your contact information to be made available, please contact us.

Member of the Audit Bureau of Circulations Publications Mail Agreement #40069240 Print edition ISSN 0381-548X On-line edition ISSN 1923-3396

In association with CANADIAN Member of

AUTOMOTIVE Technician

Inc.

Member of Association of Business Publishers Inc. 205 East 42nd Street New York, NY 10017

Association of Business Publishers 205 East 42nd Street New York, NY 10017

www.ssgm.com

08/04/11 7:16 AM

The Potenza™ S-04 Pole Position™ is designed with exhilarating performance in mind.

The tire’s continuous interlocking center rib helps improve steering response, while the large and stiff shoulder blocks help improve cornering. Sports car enthusiasts are in for quite a treat.

■ 45 sizes from 16 ˝ to 20 ˝ ■ Large, stiff outside shoulder blocks for improved cornering ■ UTQG: 280 AA A ■ Silica enriched tread compound supports enhanced wet and dry traction

1.866.9 GO TIRE

tiresafety.com

bridgestonetire.ca

5352 SSGM-7.875x10.75 SSGM-7.875x10.75.indd 1 p5352 05 Bridgestone ad.indd 5

3/15/11 05/04/111:41:20 12:57PM PM

|| Tom’s Editorial

Do your tools retire with you?

I

By Tom Venetis, Editor

One thing I often hear is how difficult it is for young people to enter this trade because of the high cost of the tools needed to start.

Unlike many other trades, this is not one

recently received an interesting phone call. A shop owner in British Columbia asked how much one should charge an apprentice to rent a former technician’s tools. It seems the older technician had retired and left his former employer his tools. This shop owner had an apprentice who needed tools and was willing to rent that former technician’s tools until she had come into possession of her own.

Jim Anderton and I did help this shop owner calculate a reasonable fee for the tools; but this phone called raised some interesting questions which I would like to hear some feedback from our readers. As technicians retire, is there a way we as an industry might help make their tools available to apprentices at the beginning of their careers when they have few tools of their own.

One thing I often hear is how difficult it is for young people to enter this trade because of the high cost of the tools needed to start. Unlike many other trades, this is not one where you can show up to work on the first day with a screwdriver and hammer. When I spoke with Ronald Tremblay, owner of Vancouver-based The Garage last year, he mentioned when he started work as a technician, the tools needed to fix a vehicle could be mounted on a workman’s rack and probably numbered about a dozen. That number has now increased probably 10-fold, not including the ever-increasing range of scan tools needed to diagnose a vehicle.

If this industry could come up with a way to make tools more readily available to apprentice technicians, and at fees that are reasonable, we might begin to see more people taking this career path. Europe overcomes this issue by having the shop own the tools. Technicians may have a set of favorite hand tools they carry about them, but the majority of the tools used during the day in the bays are loaned out to the technician for the day and returned at the end of the shift.

While such a system is non-existent here in North America (or at least I have not come across a shop that does), coming up with a means of making tools available on a lease or rent program in shops is an option that, I believe, should be given serious consideration.

Another advantage is for those technicians who have retired such a rent or lease program would allow them to have another source of income and the satisfaction of seeing their tools helping a new generation of technicians.

Let me hear what you think of this or even if you have a story about something similar happening in your shop.

where you can show up to work with a screwdriver and hammer.

6 SSGM April 2011

p 06 Tom editorial.indd 6

What do you think?

Have your say and speak your mind! letterstotheeditor@ssgm.com

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:06 PM

ISO 12647-7 Digital Control Strip 2009

3%

L: 7 x 10

T: 7.875 x 10.5

B: 8.75 x 11.25

Real. Authentic. Right.

Are you sure your one-piece assembly is real, authentic … right?

Sure, there may be plenty of look-alikes out there, but there’s only one Monroe® Quick-Strut.® Monroe was the rst to introduce a revolutionary one-piece design for quick and easy installation. Monroe Quick-Struts come with everything you need for a complete job right in the box and each unit is precision t-checked to its corresponding application. Install the right one. Install Monroe.

kyp.aftermarketsuppliers.org

monroe.com ©2011 Tenneco

MON_110221_Quick11_P4A v1.indd 1 p 07 Monroe ad.indd 7

2/22/11 11:36 AMPM 05/04/11 1:00

|| News Briefs VL Completes Integration of Turbo Parts Catalog to AB Magique Software

VL Communications announced the Turbo Parts catalog integration to look for parts and order them through MONACO Group Automotive stores is now possible for AB Magique software users. Repair shops can now look for parts and order them directly from their estimates without having to leave the software.

AB Magique offers MDI (Multiple Document Interface) which allows one to jump from one window to another, or to open them all, simultaneously.

The software is available with the integration of NAPA PROLink, Carquest WebLink, Uni-Select NexpartWHI and Vast Auto NetValue.

Robert Bosch Appoints Doug Morrison as Regional Sales Manager

Robert Bosch Inc. announced the appointment of Doug Morrison in the newly created position of Regional Sales Manager — Western Canada and Product Development Manager.

Doug has had a successful career in both traditional and the retail business of the automotive aftermarket. This experience, his proven track record, along with his strong leadership and product knowledge will serve him well, and will add an additional dimension to the Bosch Team.

Reporting to Doug will be the five Western Canadian District Sales Managers and Doug will report to Cameron Young, National Sales Manager.

nity, and prosperous growth despite the devastating loss of its founder.

On March 2nd, Mister Transmission’s executive team attended the 20th Annual Business Achievement Awards Gala hosted by the Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce, where they were honoured with this distinguished award in the 11-25 employees category.

“We are absolutely thrilled to receive this award on behalf of all the franchisees in Canada who have been a part of our team for so many years” says Mister Transmission’s president & CEO, Randall Moore.

AIA Holds Third-Annual Service Providers Forum

AIA Canada held its third-annual Automotive Service Providers Forum in Toronto, with seminars on helping shops gain greater profitability through better shop performance and tapping into new revenue centres.

John Watt, a director with Certigard Canada pointed out too much maintenance and repair work, some $10 billion, is being left ‘on the table’ by many Canadian independents. The problem is shops are missing work that is often right in front of them by not selling everything a vehicle needs when that vehicle is in the shop. This

is because independent service shops are not using their technician’s time efficiently and not realizing enough billable hours that can generate the profits that are to be had.

Bob Greenwood, a popular speaker and founder of the Automotive Aftermarket E-Learning Centre also admonished shop owners that they missing the real profit generating numbers in their business. Profit does not come from getting the lowest price on a part. Instead, profit comes from the extra billable hours a shop can generate.

If a shop with five technicians can have each technician generate one extra hour of billable work per day, over a year those technicians can generate nearly $80,000 in additional revenue, much more than a few dollars saved here or there on a part.

He drove home the point that service providers are in the business of providing a service and that service is preventative maintenance.

“We need to communicate better with customers about the savings that comes from preventative maintenance,” he said. “Is it worth spending $135 a month on properly taking care of a vehicle, or spending $2,500 on a major repair that could make that person balk and go junk the car?”

Mister Transmission Business Achievement Award Winner

Transmission was recognized by the Richmond Hill Chamber of Commerce as a Business Achievement Award Winner.

In 1963, Bruce Brillinger cofounded the first Mister Transmission location in Richmond Hill, Ontario.

Before losing his battle with cancer in 2010, Bruce Brillinger had successfully expanded the company to over 75 franchised locations nationwide. Mister Transmission is proud of its local heritage, involvement in the commu8 SSGM April 2011

p 08-12 news.indd 8

Twenty Toronto technicians attended a two-day CARS on Demand program on mobile air conditioning at Bento’s Auto & Tire Centre. After the presentation and a review of new mobile air conditioning regulations, the technicians took a test to be certified for work on mobile A/C systems. www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:07 PM

LIFE IS COMPLICATED. CHOOSING ANTIFREEZE FOR YOUR CUSTOMER’S COOLANT SYSTEM DOESN’T HAVE TO BE.

SIMPLIFY YOUR SEASON WITH

CELSIUS EXTENDED LIFE ®

ANTI FR E E Z E / C O O LANT BY PR E STO N E . ®

AVAILABLE IN CONCENTRATE AND PREMIXED FORMULAS.

CELSIUS® ANTIFREEZE/COOLANT IS SUITABLE FOR USE WITH ANY ANTIFREEZE/COOLANT IN ANY CAR OR TRUCK AND COMPATIBLE WITH ANY COLOUR ANTIFREEZE.

TO ORDER, OR FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL OUR ORDER DESK AT: 1-800-243-2323 * SEE PRODUCT LABEL FOR AUTOMOTIVE, LIGHT AND HEAVY DUTY APPLICATIONS. SEE OWNER’S MANUAL FOR RECOMMENDED CHANGE INTERVALS.

p 09 Honeywell ad.indd 9

A

car care product.

© 2010 Honeywell International Inc.

05/04/11 1:02 PM

|| News Briefs Kevin McCartney, owner of Automotive Support Services said while new cars today require less scheduled maintenance service, the work that is to be done can be more profitable because of the advanced diagnostics and skills needed by technicians to maintain that vehicle.

Tenneco Introduces In-Depth Walker Converter Diagnostics And Strategies Workshop

Tenneco Inc. has introduced an intensive emission control diagnostics training workshop under the Walker exhaust brand that will reach automotive service professionals in close to 60 North American cities during 2011.

The Walker Converter Diagnostics and Strategies Workshop is an in-depth technical seminar designed to help repair professionals eliminate emission control comebacks by efficiently and accurately diagnosing problems upstream of the catalytic converter that effect overall emission performance. The 3.5-hour workshop includes detailed tips related to modern scan tools as well as a broad range of other diagnostic instruments needed to troubleshoot most emission problems.

The Walker workshop was presented on a pilot basis in 38 cities last year and received rave reviews from participants.

“Last year’s sessions were so well

10 SSGM April 2011

p 08-12 news.indd 10

WIX Filters Donates $11,815 to the “Filter Out Cancer” Fund Drive WIX Filters, a member of the Affinia Group family of brands, in partnership with customer in-store fundraising efforts, has contributed over $12,500 to the Canadian Cancer Society.

“We would like to thank WIX customers for their amazing generosity and creativity in generating their direct contributions to the Canadian Cancer Society and we are pleased to add to their contributions by donating another $11,815 to the C.C.S. based on an accrual per kit/ sold through the “Filter Out Cancer” program,”, said Bert Verriet, brand manager for WIX Filters.

Participating Auto Parts Stores and Service Providers across Canada purchased WIX “Filter Out Cancer received that we’re receiving dozens of requests for visits to specific markets.

Shop owners and technicians are interested in results-oriented training, and the overwhelming success of our pilot series of Walker workshops tells us we’ve hit the mark in terms of content and value,” said Chuck Osgood, manager of sales operations and training, Tenneco. “As a result of this program, we believe technicians will be able to more accurately diagnose catalytic con-

“ Kits that contained program details, point-of-sale donation banks, C.C.S. Donation forms and a pink Elvis Presley Cadillac collectible that could be displayed in store, to be won by a lucky customer donating and completing one of 50 C.C.S. donation ballots.

The Filter Out Cancer campaign began in October of 2010 and ran until year-end.

(Left) Robert Pitt , WIX VP Branded Sales, Affinia Canada ULC and Jane Harvey, Corporate Development Associate, The Canadian Cancer Society.

verter replacement opportunities and shops will see a sharp decrease in emission control comebacks.”

Workshop participants learn from L1 ASE-certified Master Technician instructors. Participants will receive a comprehensive Converter Diagnostics Manual (valued at US$75) and userfriendly 13-Step Converter Diagnostics Flip Chart. Each session includes real-world emission control case studies and in-depth discussion of common

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:08 PM

Advanced Technology® designs, proven performance and a guarantee to back it up.

brEakthrOugh tEchnOlOgy that dOEsn’t brEak a PrOmIsE.

What MakeS RaybeStoS™ PRofeSSional GRade® chaSSiS PRoductS So SPecial?

Their advanced technology, low-friction designs reduce endplay and hold tighter alignment tolerances for lasting performance. They also offer complete coverage for most domestic labor guarantee.

ava I l a b l E at

See raybestoschassis.com for warranty details.

and foreign nameplates on the road today and are backed by the industry’s best parts and

Great people, great products, great prices!SM

www.carquest.ca A member of the Affinia family of brands: AIMCO, BrakePro, McQuay-Norris, Nakata, Raybestos, Wix.

CarquestChassisAd_CANADA_Insert_Final_r2.indd 2 p 11 Affinia ad.indd 11

2/18/11 8:52 AM 05/04/11 1:03 PM

|| News Briefs issues such as recurring P0420 codes.

The Walker Converter Diagnostics and Strategies Workshop begins in Concord, NH, during March and ends in Salt Lake City, UT this October.

The workshop will be held in 15 states and eight Canadian provinces, including Alberta, Saskatchewan, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Ontario and Quebec.

For more information regarding the Walker Converter Diagnostics Workshop and other Tenneco training initiatives, contact a Walker exhaust control supplier, visit www.walkerexhaust.com or call 1-800-304-8878.

James (Jim) Johnson Named President of Osram Sylvania

James ( Jim) L. Johnson, Jr. has been appointed president of Osram Sylvania Ltd. He will have overall responsibility for the Canadian company’s sales, operations and support functions, including the Trade, Retail and Automotive Lighting sales channels and the Sylvania Lighting Services division.

“Jim’s demonstrated leadership skills and high achievement orientation make him uniquely qualified for this position,” commented Rick Leaman, president and CEO of Osram Sylvania, Inc. “He will be an asset to our management team as we successfully navigate the transitioning marketplace.”

Johnson joined GTE Sylvania in 1985 and has held positions of increasing responsibility at multiple locations and businesses. In 1995, he was named vice-president of OEM marketing and sales in the Automotive Lighting division, and then moved to vice-president and general manager of the Automotive Lighting assemblies division in 1997.

Statement by Honda Canada Regarding Front Windshield Wiper Linkage Rod Recall: 2011 Odyssey

Honda will voluntarily recall 2,908 model-year 2011 Odyssey vehicles in Canada to replace the front windshield wiper linkage rod. After extended park-

ing in freezing temperatures combined with snow or ice, the front windshield wipers may become frozen to the windshield. If the front wipers are activated while frozen, the wiper linkage rod can be damaged, which may prevent normal operation of the front wipers. No crashes or injuries have been reported related to this defect.

Honda is announcing this recall to encourage all owners of affected vehicles to take their vehicles to an authorized dealer as soon as they receive notification of this recall from Honda.

Notification to customers will begin by mid-April 2011.

When Honda identifies concerns of this nature, nothing is more important to the company than fulfilling our obligation and responsibility to alert our customers.

Owners of these vehicles can determine if their vehicle requires repair by contacting their Honda dealer or by calling toll free to 1-888-946-6329.

SSGM

Yes...It Fits

-Twin-Tail Pipes -Quad Tail Pipes -Non-Conventional Tail Pipes -Conventional Tail Pipes Vehicle exhaust fumes contain airborne contaminants and particulates that can cause dizziness, nausea, fatigue and illness when inhaled. Extracting the exhaust fume at the source is key to keeping a healthy and safe working environment.

Contact us today to find out how we can improve your work environment and keep your service shop healthy and safe.

Proudly assembled and serviced in 12 SSGM April 2011

p 08-12 news.indd 12

1-866-332-2611 www.nederman.ca www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:08 PM

Join the

BEST IN CLASS!

Category Annual Sales per Bay**

Best In Class Avg.* Changes vs 2009

5 or More Bayed Outlets

$302,242

-5.6%

4 Bayed Outlets

$261,693

+0.1%

2 or 3 Bayed Outlets

$260,843

+0.3%

Annual Repair Order Value Labour Hours Sold per Repair Order Annual Sales Growth**

$508

No Change

2.4

No Change

5.0%

*Best In Class includes top third of category

N/A **Like accounts only

We are proud to recognize the following franchisees for their Best In Class achievements in 2010 Ward Mathiesen Al Sweet Alain Cloutier (67472) Brian Winch Chad Kennedy Randy Lehr Colin Sartoris Dan Nadeau Jean Bouchard Derek Williams Harlow Allen (37890) Eric Lessard Fadi Roukos Iqbal Khamis Jack Kejjo

Faisal Khan Gabe Choujaa Grant Wert Paul Brin Greg Dosen Naris Chinapa (33761) Howard Chew Chuck Kennedy Jamal Khalid Richard Porco John Bergen John Kennedy Ken Kennedy Shaun Casey Kevin Aughey

Kevin Scarrott Harlow Allen (38790) Kevin Tennis Mario Larocca Gary Murphy Michael Urban Mike Kearney Murry Ball Paul Kalra Peter Cantafio Phil Miller Ray Jones Ric Langford Alain Cloutier (37887) Dave Penner

Richard Ford Sam Ingraldi Don Andruik Sarmad Dawood Shafiqui Islam Naris Chinapa (35075) Shane Simpson Rob Principato Shawn Liu Danny Parigoris Steve Angelinas Susan Fisher Ted Mackay Tim Harper

To become a franchisee or for employment contact us at: 1-888-541-7632 or www.petro-canada.com A Suncor Energy business

p 13 Petro Canada ad.indd 13

TM

Trademarks of Suncor Energy Inc. Used under licence.

05/04/11 1:04 PM

|| Oil Report

What Is Happening With Dexos

Dexos specifications brings challenges to the oil change for independents

By Tom Venetis, Editor

L

ast year, SSGM took a close look at the new motor oil specifications coming for 2011.

Particular attention was focused on the new GF-5 standard developed by the International Lubricant Standardization and Approval Committee (ILSAC). GF-5 is a step-up from the previous GF-4 standard released for 2005 vehicles. It is made to meet criteria for improved resistance to oxidation caused by higher engine temperatures, increased detergency for the prevention of engine deposits, added protection against engine friction and improvements overall in fuel economy of vehicles while at the same time helping reduce emissions.

As the new GF-5 specification was being released, General Motors was putting the final touches on its own dexos motor oil specification to be used for factory fills and service fills on 2011 model-year General Motors vehicles worldwide. There are two dexos standards, dexos1 and dexos2.

“The dexos specification was developed in 2007 and the first GM vehicles started using dexos approved oils in 2009,” said Eric Johnson, GM lubricants engineer, General Motors. “The dexos specification utilizes ACEA/ CEC engine tests, ASTM/API engine tests, and in-house engine tests that results in a more robust specification that gives our current customers the latest in engine oil technology and provides a solid platform for GM engineers to bring the latest engine technology to market sooner which ultimately benefits our customers and the environment.”

According to the GM dexos Information Center (www.gmdexos.com),

14 SSGM April 2011

p 14-18 oil report.indd 14

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:09 PM

IT’S MORE THAN A JOB IT’S YOUR REPUTATION We get it. We understand what's important.

Find out how Castrol can help you connect with your customer, drive revenue for your shop, and build your business.

Call 1-888-CASTROL visit WakefieldCanada.ca, or call your Wakefield Canada representative today.

p 15 Wakefield_Castrol ad.indd 15

06/04/11 10:31 AM

|| Oil Report dexos is blended to provide “significant wear protection, improved piston cleanliness, a reduction in volatility and oil consumption, enhanced aeration control for improved fuel efficiency, and better oxidation properties.” The online information center further adds “dexos is recommended by GM for use in all its vehicles except those with Duramax diesel engines requiring the use of API CJ-4 engine oil. Dexos is fully backward-compatible and can be used in older vehicles. It is specified in the owner’s manual for all 2011 and later model years, with the exception of Europe where dexos is specified starting in model year 2010. Dexos1 is designed for use with gasoline engines and replaces GM-LL-A-025, GM6094M and GM4718M. Dexos2 is designed for use with light-duty diesel engines and replaces GM-LLB-025 and GM-LL-A-025.”

Blenders who have come on-board with dexos, can be found here: http:// www.gmdexos.com/licensedbrands. html.

It would all seem pretty straight forward, except there is some confusion right now amongst some independents and shops specializing in rapid oil changes over how dexos differs from the recently agreed ILSAC GF-5 specification, and what it means for vehicle oil changes.

ILSAC GF-5 and dexos would

Simply the Best!

Best Service • Best Quality • Best Value Call NOCO for your quote today!

NOCO Lubricants Company Distribution Inquiries 1-800-414-NOCO For orders call 416-201-9900 16 SSGM April 2011

p 14-18 oil report.indd 16

seem to some in the aftermarket to be very similar. So the question is why not use an ILSAC GF-5 spec motor oil in a new GM vehicle? GM’s Johnson said that similarity is only on the surface: “GM would expect a formulation approved to dexos1 to meet the GF-5 requirements. A GF-5 oil may not meet the dexos specifications.”

According to the dexos information center, drivers of General Motor’s newest vehicles who use “oils other than authentic dexos products could result in reduced engine performance or damage not covered under warranty.”

Johnson added: “GM, as do other manufacturers, require a product that meets their specification to be used in that application. This is no different than it has been in the past.

Manufacturers require their specification because that is what has been tested in that application. Specifically, using engine oil licensed to the dexos specification means that their engine will be operating at a very high level throughout the service life of the oil.

Our warranty statement has been consistent for many years.”

Not everyone, however, is fully behind dexos. As one can see from the list published on the dexos Information Center, there are some oil blenders who are absent. SSGM Magazine contacted several oil makers to talk about the dexos standard — those who do have licensed dexos motor oils and those who do not currently have a dexoslicensed product. Many turned down www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:09 PM

p 17 Shell ad.indd 17

05/04/11 1:19 PM

|| Oil Report

the opportunity to talk on the record, some citing ongoing licensing negotiations with General Motors and others saying they did not want to talk about the issues surrounding dexos which have come up in other media outlets.

Anthony Stadelman, director of marketing with Wakefield Canada Inc. said GM’s position is not at all unusual.

“GM has said it wants (a) more stringent specification for their vehicles and they have ‘bumped’ a couple of the minimum requirements on a couple of key characteristics.” He added “BP Castrol are currently undecided and continue to talk to GM about the license.”

One company that has come out strongly against the dexos licensing requirements is Ashland Inc., makers of Valvoline lubricants even though the company has said it has oils that meet the dexos requirements.

“We have products that meet all the requirements and have gone through all the testing, but we chose not to license them,” said Thom Smith, vicepresident for branded lubricant technology, Valvoline. “Additive suppliers routinely submit formulation for approval of specifications and we chose formulation for our products that were approved for licensing. We have three 18 SSGM April 2011

p 14-18 oil report.indd 18

products that meet all the requirements: SynPower 5W-20 and 5W-30, and DuraBlend 5W-30.

Smith added GM created the dexos specification by “taking some of the requirements of API, some of the requirements for ACEA and some engine tests on their own, and put together a specification of their own.

It does take some additional chemistry to pass all those tests as compared to the basic ILSAC GF-5 type products.

There are also some different physical requirements that are more stringent than API.” For some oil makers the issue is not just around the standard, but around the licensing program GM has created for dexos and over some of the language GM has used for issues of warranty claims. On March 7, 2011 Oil Express’ Carole Donoghue reported lube oil marketers were approaching the United States’ Federal Trade Commission to voice their complaints of that program. According to the report, in the letter sent to the FTC, lube oils firms and gas dealers point to the US Mangnusson-Moss Warranty Act and the Federal Trade Commission Act that make it illegal for a dealer or manufacturer to void a warranty because a consumer did not have a vehicle

serviced at a dealership. As well, there are questions about the licensing and royalty fees around dexos. According to Oil Express, the fee works out to about 36 cts/gal and is based on market share; GM said the monies raised by the fees will be used to fund development of engine tests for the oil and to operate quality monitoring programs.

“We have chosen not to license because it adds to the cost of the oil without providing any additional benefit to the consumer,” said Smith. “The GF-4 oils performed perfectly well in 2010 vehicles, so there is no reason to believe that GF-5 products would not also perform well in new vehicles.

“There is another interesting angle as well for certain fleet customers of GM,” he continued. “GM has indicated that those customers are fine to use the API-specification oil without voiding the warranty. The reason is that GM is allowing (the fleet customers) to do that is that between model year 2010 and 2011, the engine design is no different. There is no technological reason why you would have to use dexos oil. This raises the question: why is GM trying to force individual consumers to use the more expensive dexos-compliant oil?”

SSGM www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:10 PM

You work hard to keep up with the competition, and any advantage

· Instant credibility with the world’s

can quickly become a game changer. With Mobil Branded Premium Motor Oils, you can give your business the opportunity to help boost profits and car counts and reach its true potential.

Mobil 1 Lube Express is a branding program that gives you the support of a recognized industry leader. You’ll become part of a respected worldwide brand with a new look for your building, new signage, and a whole lot more.

Join us today. Learn more at mobil.ca or email us at mobil1canada@esso.ca

leading synthetic motor oil brand · A new image that draws customer respect and attention · An upgraded, premium product line

SSGM

docket # SIMP_11015.05 Prints: CMYK

With Mobil 1 Lube Express, you get:

A.PVL.EM1LE.220.4C

Get instant brand recognition and loyalty with Mobil 1 Lube Express.

8.125” X 10.875” LIVE AREA: 7”X10” BLEED: .125”

It’s amazing what an oil change can do.

proof # Client

Creative Directo

· Convenient online store access at mobilstore.ca · Annual national promotions for oil-change facilities

Art Director

CopyWriter

Account Directo

· Training seminars and access to a technical support line

Account Manag

Prodution Mana

mobil.ca

©2011 Exxon Mobil Corporation. Mobil, Mobil 1, 1 icon, and Mobil 1 Lube Express are the trademarks of Exxon Mobil Corporation or one of its subsidiaries. Imperial Oil, licensee.

McGill

A.PVL.EM1LE.220.4C.05.indd 1 p 19 Imperial Oil ad.indd 19

3/25/11 9:01:10 AM 05/04/11 1:20 PM

dal

|| Fuel Systems

Fuel System Diagnostics Contamination and electrical issues can still plague today’s robust

By Tom Venetis, Editor fuel systems

A

s SSGM Magazine’s Editor, I enjoy seeing how engineering and technological progress changes people’s perceptions. This is especially true with automotive technology. Think about fuel systems for a moment. My wife and I own and still drive a 1991 Honda Civic. One thing I have to do every couple of years is change the fuel filter.

In this Honda Civic, the fuel filter is on the passenger side of the engine compartment and can be easily replaced.

Whenever I mention this to people,

there is a look of astonishment that the fuel filter is even accessible; or that it has to be changed regularly.

There was a good reason for the fuel filter to be so accessible. It was to be changed regularly in order to keep contamination in fuel to a minimum and thereby keeping the engine running smoothly. As every technician knows, fuel filters today are built into the fuel pump module which sits snuggly inside the gasoline tank. Fuel blenders today operate at very high standards so there

A burnt terminal can cause a perfectly working fuel pump to seem to have failed. It is important for technicians to carefully probe the electrical systems to make sure they are in good working order before focusing attention on the fuel pump.

Photo Credit: Delphi 20 SSGM April 2011

p 20-24 fuel systems.indd 20

is very little risk of someone buying contaminated fuel from major supplier; and even smaller independent gasoline sellers buy from the major blenders.

That does not mean there is no chance of contamination from happening and the fuel system being compromised. What a technician has to keep at the top of mind is contamination is more likely not coming from bad fuel.

“Keep in mind, fuel contamination can come from several sources and can be caused by a variety of reasons, including dirt, excessive alcohol, water among others,” said Rocco Fini, product manager, powertrain with General Motors of Canada, customer care and aftersales. Contamination can be caused by incorrectly putting E-85 fuel into a vehicle which is not designed for such fuel, for example, Fini added.

The problem with high ethanolbased fuels such as E-85, is they require fuel systems to be specially designed to prevent corrosion from happening when fuel system parts come into contact with the ethanol. Materials with high concentrations of zinc, brass or aluminum can corrode and contaminate the fuel. Non-metal parts such as rubber or polyurethane and certain kinds of plastics can be damage causing contamination problems.

Older vehicles with rusting metal fuel tanks can also be a potential source of contamination. The problem with rust is the particles can sometime make their way past the fuel strainer system and possibly even the filter. Those particles then get into the pump and begin to damage the mechanism; or worse, get passed by the pump into the fuel system and begin to damage the fuel injectors. If a pump is damaged by such contamination and has to be replaced, it is crucial to properly flush out the tank to remove any possible future contamination; or to replace the www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:10 PM

WANT THE RIGHT FIT? START WITH THE RIGHT BRAND. If a belt needs replacing, there’s a good chance the pulley and tensioner do as well. So why not prevent a comeback by replacing all three? NAPA has belts, tensioners and pulleys built to perfectly match the size of the part they’re replacing. And since every part NAPA sells is built to NAPA’s exacting standards, you can be sure those new parts will not only match the performance of the original, they may very well exceed it.

p 21 NAPA belts ad.indd 21

NAPA. We Know Auto Parts. napacanada.com 1-866-GET-NAPA

05/04/11 1:20 PM

|| Fuel Systems tank entirely. Even plastic tanks can produce contamination as the inner lining can flake and the particles can begin to gum-up the system. Something else to keep in mind is to avoid too often using fuel and engine cleaning additives. These have to be used periodically to help remove buildups of contaminates in the engine system and improve fuel efficiency and performance. These work, however, by using corrosive agents that can, over too frequent use, damage the fuel system and create the kinds of contamination that one is trying to prevent.

Careful probing the electrical system

All this is pretty basic. The more troublesome issue about fuel system maintenance is around electrical issues which, in some cases, can cause premature failure of a fuel pump.

Frank Tonon, director of product training with Spectra Premium pointed out that early pump failure is “caused by heat and heat is caused by high

22 SSGM April 2011

p 20-24 fuel systems.indd 22

This fuel injector shows signs of heavy contamination caused by a contaminated fuel system. This contamination will impact engine performance.

Photo Credit: Delphi

amperage.” If such a problem begins to happen the terminal and connectors will begin to overheat and that overheating will cause a loss of connectivity.

“The fuel pump relay is a good example. It is a little set of points that are designed to work anywhere from four to 10 amps,” Tonon added. “But

with time, those points will begin to burn and create a lack of contact.”

“Electrical issues come down to what we call high-resistance connection,” said Dave Ehle, chief engineer of vehicle electronics and thermal products with Delphi Corp. “If you are trying to make a connection from the

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:11 PM

Premium Heavy Duty Tire Sealant

SEALS & PREVENTS FLAT TIRES! Lasts The Life Of The Tire Formulated For Tube & Tubeless Tires

• Extends Tire Life • Provides Better Fuel Economy Use in any Air or Nitrogen filled tire, heavy duty equipment, highway or off road vehicles down to your wheelbarrows.

• Non-Flammable • Non Explosive

Ideal for Trucks, Auto, Motorcycles, RV'S, Trailers, ATV'S, Bicycles, Buses, Farming, Landscaping, Forestry & Construction Equipment!

Box 790, Bobcaygeon, Ontario K0M 1A0 T: (705) 738-2321 • F: (705) 738-4550 www.nlsproducts.ca • e: mail@nlsproducts.ca

p 23 NLS Amerseal ad.indd 23

ASEN 0311

• Seals 6 mm (1/4 inch) punctures in tread area Available sizes: • Seals larger punctures in heavy ply tires # 119-0008 (236 ml/8 oz. 2 Bike Tire Apps.); # 119-0016 (473 ml/16 oz.); • Seals most bead and rim leaks # 119-0032 (946 ml/32 oz.); # 119-0128 (3.79 L / 1 gal. Pump incl.); • Helps maintain constant tire pressure # 119-0640 (18.9 L / 5 gal.); # 119-516 Pump for # 119-0640; • Effective from -43˚C (-45˚F) to over 93˚C (200˚F) # 119-6451 (Combo - Pail # 119-0640 18.9 L & Pump # 119-516) • Tires run approx. 25% cooler, providing a cooling effect • Easy to install • Contains 4 Industrial Rust Inhibitors & 1 Vapour Inhibitor • Bottles include installation tools under cap • Will not corrode steel, aluminum or chrome rims • Pumps include valve core remover • 100% water soluble - easy clean out for recapping, patching • Indefinite shelf life, no mixing required • Does not void tire warranty • Stays pH neutral • Works in high & low pressure tires / high & low speed tires • Formulated for tube or tubeless tires • Will not adversely effect balance when properly installed • Completely homogeneous • Never separates • Works with most TPMS / low tire pressure indicator sensors • Not recommended for low tire pressure equalizer systems • Do not mix with fluids, balancing powder, or other sealants Contact us or visit our website for the Tire Application Guide

05/04/11 1:37 PM

|| Fuel Systems fuel module to the harness, you want those to be good electrical connections with low resistance or no resistance at the connection points. If you have a lose terminal or a terminal that has sprung a bit through corrosion, then you will have resistance which reduces the amount of current to the fuel pump which can look as if you have a poor pump, one that is delivering lower pressure and flow.”

But checking the electrical can be tricky. If one unplugs a connector and puts it back in, it can clear up the connection interface and then the circuit will work fine. The technician then sends the customer back on the road having replaced the fuel pump — mistaking the electrical problem for a faulty fuel pump — only to have that same customer come back complaining about the same problem. The real problem of the contamination or wear causing the electrical fault in the first place is still there and interferes with the new pump’s performance. Something else to remember: one has to be careful when

24 SSGM April 2011

p 20-24 fuel systems.indd 24

Rust in a fuel tank can soon make its way into the fuel module, as one can see in this photo. Over time, rust can damage the module and enter the engine.

Photo Credit: Delphi

probing the connections. Jamming in a probe tip can bend the spring leaf of the terminal and create an electrical problem one is trying to avoid.

“The first thing I would always do is look at the connectors and examine the terminals and see if you see something like corrosion or soot,” added Ehle. “There is a thing called ‘terminal fretting’ where if you have vibration going on, microscopic wiggling in the two halves of the connector will create

dust from that movement and that dust can act as an insulator and you give an intermittent connection which is hard to find.”

That is why technicians are encouraged to exercise patience with dealing with fuel system electrical problems. It may take a while to finally pin-down the problem; however, the result will be a satisfied customer and not having to replace a perfectly good fuel pump.

SSGM

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:11 PM

p 25 AIA ad.indd 25

05/04/11 1:37 PM

A/C It’s Official: Get Ready For

HFO-1234yf

By Andrew Ross

I

t seems like the world of mobile air conditioning just gets settled into a routine, and all of a sudden a new upstart threatens to change everything again.

And so it is with HFO-1234yf, the new refrigerant formula that is safer for the environment, and soon to begin making its way through the service channels. While there were many who believed that the new refrigerant might never find its way to North American vehicles in operation, its recent approval by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (in February), and the coming equivalent approvals for import and sale in the offing for Canada, indicate that those doubts should evaporate as fast as Freon on a summer’s day.

Be prepared for many players and suppliers who have been waiting in the wings for the approvals, and for its installed base to grow, to begin calling on the trade with 1234yf-related offerings.

The last time the industry had a shift approximating the enormity of this one was more than 15 years ago, when R-134a come in to supplant R-12, the formula that had served as the refrigerant of choice for vehicle air conditioning systems from the outset.

The move to HFO-1234yf is different, though.

“We like to put HFO in front to distinguish it from the HFCs,” says Ken Horen, global commercial development manager with Honeywell Specialty Materials, which developed the HFO-1234yf refrigerant together with DuPont.

The product’s hydrofluoroolefin (HFO) chemistry is what gives it a big advantage in environmental terms over HFCs (hydrofluorocarbons) like 134a. (R-12, or Freon, was a CFC (chlorofluorocarbon), and was banned due to its ozone-eating qualities.)

“The switch from R-12 to R-134a was due to the ozonedepleting potential (ODP) of R-12, and it also had a large reduction of global warming potential (GWP) between the two refrigerants. It was a good intermediate step.” That last statement may rankle those in the service business who thought that the move to R-134a was the endgame.

However, says Horen, the move to 1234yf (pronounced “twelve-thirty-four-yf”) represents a 99.7% reduction in GWP over 134a; while HFO-1234yf rings in with a GWP of 4, 134a tips the scales at a comparatively astounding 1430.

26 SSGM April 2011

p 26 28 AC report from Jobber.indd 26

While there are important differences in terms of its impact on the environment, HFO-1234yf service procedures should remain much the same as for HFC-134a systems.

“What really got the auto OEMs interested in it was an EU directive in 2006 that said, in January 1, 2011, if you go for a new approval, it has to have a refrigerant with a GWP of less than 150. And for the past four years we have been working with the automotive OEMs to try to develop the best solution.”

For a time, a number of different alternatives were being considered, but Horen says they didn’t want to take an intermediate step; also, some of the options had other issues to contend with.

“When you look at competing technologies, we had R-152 with a GWP at around 140, and CO2 at 1.” He adds that despite the fact that R-152 is approved for use under the U.S. Significant New Alternatives Policy, flammability concerns would require additional precautions in system design such as a secondary loop, which would add cost. System cost factors also made CO2 a tough pill to swallow.

It is true, he points out, that HFO-1234yf is technically flammable but to only a very small degree, and extensive crash testing has not revealed any tendency to ignite.

CO2 was being considered for a time, but several factors stood in its way.

Continued on page 28

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:13 PM

AC Report ||

Giving Summer the Cold Shoulder Making A/C service once more part of the

By Nestor Gula regular maintenance schedule

M

ost vehicles sold these days come equipped with an air conditioning system installed. Whether it is to deal with the hot weather — while this may be Canada, it does get very hot here in the summers — or simply to boost the resale value of the car, the air conditioning option is one of the most popular on today’s vehicles.

With so many A/C equipped cars on the road and the hot weather around the corner this should spell an increase in work for most shops that perform A/C work. Many car owners neglect the air conditioning system and only come in when it has stopped blowing cold. Many service shops also do not include A/C diagnostics in their annual maintenance schedule.

“The typical A/C systems found on today’s vehicles are certainly much more ‘tight’ than they were even just a few years ago, and refrigerant loss simply through normal use has been significantly reduced,” said Tim Stumpff, group product manager with the Bosch Diagnostics Business Unit.

“Even so, with today’s smaller refrigerant capacities, losses over a two-three year timeframe can deteriorate A/C performance — which impacts not only passenger comfort, but also fuel economy.

“Since A/C performance degrades slowly over time, most consumers do not notice the change until the system virtually shuts down or becomes inoperative. This is clearly an opportunity for shops to take a proactive approach to servicing.”

When a customer comes in with concern about the air conditioning in the vehicle it is important not to jump to conclusions.

www.ssgm.com

p 27-41 AC Report.indd 27

“Someone comes in and says, ‘Hey my car is not blowing cold,’ you automatically suspect that there is a leak somewhere,” said Chris ­Bahlman the director, service operations at ­Delphi Product & Service Solutions. “You run some dye in it and maybe find one leak, but if there is more than one…”

He said a proper diagnosis has to be done each time.

“We prefer that you do not do any invasive checks; that means hooking up equipment to an A/C system, unless there is a complaint of some kind. Another way of looking at is you would only start looking at an air conditioning unit when it is not cooling properly,” said Paul DeGuiseppi, manager of Service Training for MACS (Mobile Air Conditioning Society).

This organization is the leading nonprofit trade association for the mobile air conditioning, heating and engine cooling system segment of the automotive aftermarket.

“You can measure inlet and outlet temperature of the condenser. You can measure the inlet and outlet temperature of the evaporator, with a good contact thermometer and that will often give you a good idea of the state of charge in the system. The temperature readings will give you a good clue that there is a low charge.”

Read the manual

DeGuiseppi said that a properly trained staff is paramount to running a proper diagnosis and service of air conditioning of cars. He also notes that even with proper training obvious mistakes are made.

“This might sound simple but it is true. The techs, don’t read the instruccontinued on page 29 April 2011 SSGM 27

07/04/11 2:13 PM

A/C

Continued from page 26

that have 1234yf installed in “A CO2 system has more the U.S. will end up similarly components and is harder to equipped for the Canadian package under a hood, with its market. high pressure, higher power ertainly there are going to be cases where even in All of which means we requirements, and noise. And could begin seeing 1234yfthe fact that you are dealing the early days of its use in North America, shops are equipped vehicles on our with higher pressure [means] going to see HFO-1234 entering the service channel; roads by this fall, possibly the expense for recovery sooner. equipment goes up.” and as much as the aftermarket might like to deny it, some “Initially it will be in new It is notable that a frontline DIYer is going to put 134a into the system, and if he does, vehicles, so we believe the group representing German it is useful to know that the effect on performance will be initial service will be under automakers, the VDA, had warranty as well as collision pushed hard for the support minimal. shops,” says Horen. of CO2 back in 2007, but has It will naturally affect the recovery and recycling of the From a service standpoint, since recanted and thrown much will appear the same to its support behind the Honeyresulting blend, but Honeywell’s own data shows that it the untrained eye; this was, well/DuPont alternative. would have only a slightly increased pressure at any given after all, a key point in choosIn the end, 1234yf, with its ing the refrigerant as an alterGWP of 4, was judged to be temperature. native. the safest, easiest-to-integrate However, there are imporoption that would still deliver tant differences, even if they are subtle, as follows: on the EU promise for the long term.

• Labelling: This is the first thing that a tech might notice.

So where to from here?

While the EU rule puts HFO-1234 in new models being • Connectors: Unique connectors will be installed on systems introduced now—and all new cars as of 2017—the U.S. is taking using HFO-1234yf, designed to prevent inadvertent mixing a different approach. of refrigerants.

In the U.S., adoption will be driven by a set of incentives • Components: Very few changes to the architecture of the put in place by the government, and naturally those models A/C system, though some cars change the TXV setting, use either a larger-diameter suction line, or an internal heat exchanger.

• Lubricant: Some applications will require a different lubricant, though this is possibly not always the case.

• Equipment: While recovery and recycling equipment may look similar (and it is), the new refrigerant will require a separate setup to avoid mixing as well as have the right connectors.

• Identifiers: While the existing refrigerant identifier should be able to detect HFO-1234yf as a refrigerant that is not 134a, it wouldn’t be able to tell you that it is HFO-1234yf, so it’s advisable to pony up for an identifier that can.

• Refrigerant Cost: Costs for the refrigerant are expected to be higher than 134a.

C

What Happens When You Mix?

• GM • FORD • CHRYSLER

• ACURA • AUDI • BMW • HONDA • HYUNDAI • INFINITI • JAGUAR • KIA • MAZDA • MERCEDES • MITSUBISHI • NISSAN • PORSCHE • SATURN • SAAB • ISUZU • TOYOTA • LEXUS • VW • VOLVO

416 757-0123 Fax: (416) 752-4681 1 800 990 9794

1670 O’CONNOR DRIVE, TORONTO, ONTARIO, CANADA M4A 1W4

In service, it appears that the temperature pressure values exhibited by HFO-1234yf very closely parallel those of HFC134a. There is just a slight increase in the pressure at higher temperatures, but technicians should see the same temperature-pressure performance they are used to seeing.

Looking ahead, only General Motors has formally announced that it will adopt the refrigerant, in 2013 MY Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, and Cadillac models expected to hit the streets in 2012.

Models may show up in service bays sooner, however, if European automakers, seeking to make good on their EU commitment, bring those systems to North America.

In any case, it is advisable for shops, and the jobbers who supply them, to start getting their suppliers lined up for the new refrigerant and the equipment required to service systems using it, because while there are some variables regarding timing that are still to be nailed down, 1234yf is coming to a service bay near you and it is good practice to be prepared when it arrives.

SSGM

28 SSGM April 2011

p 26 28 AC report from Jobber.indd 28

www.ssgm.com

08/04/11 10:08 AM

AC Report ||

continued from page 27

The Robinair DiscovR Refrigerant Identifier (P/N 16009) is designed to identify unknown refrigerants and un­cover hard to find air contamination prior to servicing A/C systems, and reduce a technician’s chances of spreading contaminated refrigerant to other vehicles.

tions properly. That is why they don’t use the equipment properly. It is very simple. The manufacturer knows how to use that machine better than you do, so read the instructions. I see this all

the time.”

“You should be doing just basic diagnosis that makes sure that the system operates the way that it should,” said Delphi’s Bahlman. “Instead of just assuming that if there is a problem with the A/C unit than it has to be a leak.” Other problems when servicing air conditioning systems are sloppy and imprecise work.

“Inadequate flushing. Once it is determined that there is a leak, you have to evacuate the system completely.

Every time a system is serviced or anytime components are taken apart, there has to be a pretty thorough flushing of the system.

Dyes must be specifically designed for that air conditioning system — you cannot interchange them,” Bahlman

stressed. “The dye has to be used in a one shot deal. It has to come from a sealed container. In that the dosage is proper. Not enough is not enough and too much can definitely be harmful.”

Bahlman said that properly understanding the system that is being serviced and reading all the literature associated with it is very important.

“Some component manufacturers do not recommend the use of dyes because they don’t want it floating around their condensers or evaporators,” he said.

“The tech must really be careful to note any restrictions on the use of them in the system.”

What you need in your shop

A great concern for those that service air conditioning units in vehicles is the industry’s move to a new refrigerant standard. Goodbye R-134a and hello to R-1234yf — right? Well, not right now.

“You will have to have separate equipment to work on the new refrigcontinued on page 40

OE Engineering.

It’s in our DNA.

VDO - A Trademark of the Continental Corporation

www.vdo.com/usa OE engineering experience. It’s what sets our team apart from the competition. Our design engineers have the expertise to guarantee OE fit, form and function. First time. Every time.

service and coverage to keep you ahead of the competition.

That’s why you need VDO – the brand that delivers best-in-the-business quality,

For additional information, contact: salessupport-us@vdo.com

Electric Motors & Fan Assemblies | Door Systems | Engine Management | Instrumentation | TPMS

www.ssgm.com CO104_JN_0411_DNA_SSGM_V3.indd

p 27-41 AC Report.indd 29

Get the OE engineering advantage.

Go with VDO.

1

April 2011 3/4/11 SSGM 29 3:06 PM

08/04/11 1:56 PM

|| Jim’s Rant

Who’s Responsible?

W

By Jim Anderton, Technical Editor

Record everything … if it goes bad, what you write will carry a lot more weight than what you remember.

e get letters and e-mails here at SSGM, and recently I received one from Jim Hooey from Centennial College in Toronto. Jim is a professor in the College’s School of Transportation, as well as acting as an expert witness in civil and criminal cases in Ontario. Jim brought up several issues involving shop liability (see Nestor Gula’s article in last month’s SSGM) that are important enough to deserve another look.

It’s a common issue: the customer brings in a POS vehicle for a small service procedure and you find issues that are safety-related. You tell the customer. But what’s your responsibility if he or she refuses the job and then has a brake failure on the street? The point of the insurance industry experts in Nestor’s article is to document everything … but Jim Hooey points out that in law the tech is considered the expert, not the customer; and besides, the third-party, like the parents of the kids in the school bus your customer hit, can still sue even if you get the customer to sign the work order as “work declined.”

So what do you do? On the face of it, you hold the customer’s keys until they get it fixed or tow it away. In practice this is rarely possible. If the customer pays the bill, it’s their car; if they demand their keys, there’s not much you can do. What you can do, as Jim points out, is to call the police or your provincial transport ministry and let them take it from there. Unless you’re the shop owner and/or the customer is undesirable, then this may be a quick route to the unemployment office for a tech, so shop employees are naturally going to resist the legal route.

And there’s the real conflict: what the law says you should do, what you need to do to keep the boss and the customer happy, and what your insurance carrier wants you to do are rarely the same thing.

What should you do? Obviously you have to obey the law; but I’d listen carefully to my insurance expert. You have a duty to do everything you can to keep an unsafe vehicle off the streets, but you have to do it in a way that keeps your job and convinces your customer that you’re not just strong arming them into more repairs.

The best way is to fire the customer, i.e. just say no before you roll that POS into the bay. But in this market that’s a tough thing to do. A mandatory inspection regime, like that proposed by Art Wilderman at the Canadian Independent Automotive Association (www.ciaassociation.org) would work, but that would be highly unpopular politically, so don’t hold your breath. What you can do is document everything, including a customer’s refusal to sign a work order. That work order should state in block caps “UNSAFE” so that it’s obvious that the work is more than just recommended. If it’s really bad, take a picture. Digital cameras are cheap these days. Your service writer will get a much higher “go” order from a customer if the e-mail or phone recommendation includes a picture of those cracked rotors. Record everything … if it goes bad, what you write will carry a lot more weight than what you remember.

What do you think?

Have your say and speak your mind! letterstotheeditor@ssgm.com 30 SSGM April 2011

p 30 Jims Rant.indd 30

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:15 PM

Harness the selling power of the number one oil filter brand in North America and the #1 preferred oil filter brand in the DIFM channel* with the FRAM Advantage Program. Get exclusive access to the latest technological information and training videos. Nott only will your customers be bett better ter off, off your business will be too. Take advantage of the FRAM Advantage. e. Visit FramAdvantage.com for more details.

Thinking Hockey? Enter the Drive for the Cup Playoff Bracket. Participate with your friends and co-workers in one of the CHL Major Junior Hockey Playoff Series.

Visit DriveForTheCup.ca to register.

Source: Honeywell CPG Proprietary Study by Harris Interactive, Sept. 2008 Š 2011 Honeywell International Inc. Printed in Canada.

*

p 31 Honeywell ad.indd 31

No Purchase Necessary. For details visit www.driveforthecup.ca.

05/04/11 1:38 PM

|| Sasso

Drawing In More Customers

By Improving Your Search Engine Ranking How Google, Yahoo and Bing Can Generate More Sales For Your Shop

By Phil Sasso

T

hey say the three most important things in real estate are: location, location, location. The same is true in your Internet search engine rankings. Web sites listed on the first page of Google get much more business than those on page two or three.

Want to know how to appear on the top of search engine listings like Google, Yahoo and Bing for “Service Station,” “Garage” or “Automotive Repair?” I’ll let you in on a little secret: Everyone reading this article would like to be the first listing, too.

And only one business can be number one.

The first step in getting to the top of search engines is to set a realistic goal. Top Google rankings can be a powerful marketing tool, but don’t mortgage your shop with the hopes that a number one ranking can make you a millionaire. Investing thousands in getting to the top of the most popular search engines is no guarantee you’ll earn back that investment.

Marketing vs. Optimization

There are two ways to get top listing on search engines: Search Engine Marketing (SEM) and Search Engine Optimization (SEO).

SEM is basically buying ads on Search Engines like Google or Bing. You do that by bidding on keywords and phrases. Those ads are the listings in the box at the top when you do a search. Search Engine advertisers don’t pay for their ad to show up. They only pay when someone clicks on the ad. Google Adwords, for instance, can cost anywhere from a 10 cents to $100 per click-through.

SEO, on the other hand, is basically structuring your site so that it appears “organically,” or free, at the top of the search engines. There are many firms that specialize in providing SEO services. Unfortunately, their services can cost more than SEM and often fall short in delivering on their promises.

Beware SEO Scams

A few years ago a client called to ask me to cancel his Google Adwords campaign. I asked if it wasn’t generating business anymore. He said he didn’t need it any longer. He had signed a contract with a “SEO consultant” who promised him a 32 SSGM April 2011

p 32-34 Sasso.indd 32

first-page ranking for only $199 a month. Now, he didn’t need Adwords anymore.

So, I Googled the phrase he was promised top ranking for: “shuttle bus Chicago.” Sure enough, a special Web page this SEO firm designed came up in the number seven spot — four entries behind the number three spot I had secured for my client’s site for no monthly fee. I didn’t use any sneaky or unethical tricks. We just designed a very simple Web site using some basic SEO strategies. As I write this I felt compelled to check the ranking. Sure enough, he’s still among the top five “organic” listings. I don’t say that to brag.

But it’s important to point out that top rankings can and do fluctuate.

Think Strategically

Take it with a grain of salt if an “SEO strategist” promised you top ranking. No one can guarantee you any ranking.

That’s because top ranking is a moving target. Even Google will tell you that every month they change their algorithm (the equation they use to determine search ranking). Google does that to keep the playing field level. Their goal is to produce the best possible results for searchers while weeding out Web sites using underhanded tactics.

SEO has some unique benefits. One is that people will most often choose the “organic” listing before they’ll click on a “sponsor” link. But, although SEO seems free, someone still has to take the time and effort to optimize your site. That’s either you or someone you pay. I suggest a mix of both SEO and SEM to give you the best of both worlds. Today, I’ll give you some simple SEO strategies to improve your rankings.

I’ll focus on the consistent basics, and try to avoid trends that could be over tomorrow. I’ll also focus on what’s working on the undisputed leader, Google. The same tactics will produce similar results on other search engines.

Choose Your Words Carefully:

The first step is to figure out what words or phrases your prospects use when looking for a garage or service station.

Often shop owners will use words and phrases they think customers would search for, like “service station.” Unfortunately your customers and prospects may not be thinking in the same terms you do. A better technique than guessing www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:15 PM

d r a d n a Gold St

The

in Recycled Parts

A D V E R T O R I A L

Professional automotive service providers are turning to Standard Auto Wreckers for high quality recycled parts.

“Automotive service providers have come to rely upon the extensive inventory of high quality recycled parts Standard Auto Wreckers has to offer”, said David Gold, Owner of Standard Auto Wreckers. Gold was awarded Locator UpFront’s 2010 most influential overall title.

“Whether it is a front-end component, a motor or a transmission our products are fully tested and come with a 30 day warranty”, says David Gold. “An unbeatable deal for our customers is our extended warranties that takes the fear out of buying recycled auto parts and can even include labour warranties!”

Service providers can access the extensive inventory of automotive parts that Standard has to offer by either calling one of our professional customer service advisors or by searching our web site at www.standardautowreckers. com. In fact Standard’s on-line search engine enables professional service providers to search by make or model or

by VIN number.

Customers can a lso search by product images or even by the ever popular feature “Fresh Road Kill”, which shows all vehicles with model years of 1998 and newer acquired in the last ninety days.

“Recently,” owner David Gold said “we introduced

head light and tail light refinishing services. Using state of the art technology plus quality craftsmanship, plastic head and taillights that are scratched, blasted or tarnished can be refurbished to their original state. The results are like a new OEM headlight at a fraction of the cost.”

Customers can even track deliveries of their orders on line to effectively plan their service schedules within their facilities.

Established in 1979, Standard Auto Wreckers is a leading environmental auto parts recycler. The recent expansion into Niagara Falls, NY where they have an indoor dismantling system unaffected by weather, utilizing the latest in fluid-recovery systems and environmental procedures.

Standard is a proud supporter of the Green Vehicle Disposal network of Auto Recyclers and their Charity Car Program. Green Vehicle Disposal is North America’s largest network of self-regulated auto recycling facilities whose purpose is to provide customers, with an EcoFriendly solution for the diposal of their End of Life Vehicles.

“At Standard Auto Wreckers, whether it is tires, undercar components, motors, transmissions or body parts we are committed to provide the automotive service provider with quality recycled automotive parts, readily available and fully guaranteed,” said David Gold of Standard Auto Wreckers.

ARRIVING DAILY

www.standardautowreckers.com

Call y!

Toda

Standard.indd 1 p 33 Standard Auto ad.indd 33

416-286-8686

1216 Sewells Road, Scarborough, Ontario, M1X 1S1

5/7/10 2:48 PM 05/04/11 1:38 PM

|| Sasso is to research what prospects actually are searching. Google Keyword Tool is a handy online to research the search terms people are actually using.

Using Long Tails:

I like using long tail phrases. A long tail is, as the name suggests, a long and specific search term. I recommend long-tail search phrases because they usually connect with prospects that are in buying mode. For example, as I write this, if you wanted to get the top spot for “garage” on Google you’d be competing against about 331 million Web pages (“service station” gets you down to 115 million).

But no one is going to just type in “service station,” they are going to type in a location which will narrow the playing field. For example, “service station Toronto” which pulled 466,000 Web pages; “Service station Don Mills” reduces that to 268,000 pages and “Mercedes service station Don Mills” cut that number to 33,800 competing Web pages.

I’m sure you see where I’m going with this. By focusing geographically, not only do you reduce your competition, you are also a better fit for your prospective customer’s needs. In this case, you aren’t interested in customers in Vancouver, and your prospective customers aren’t interested in service stations in British Columbia.

Now that you researched the words and phrase that prospects are searching, you’ll want to make sure those words

Scan Me!

This is a QR Code … the smart phone scannable code used by companies like Air Canada, PR Newswire and the New York Times to generate reader interest and link print copy to the Internet. Just use one of many free reader apps on any smart phone platform, including i-phone, BlackBerry and Android, then click. SSGM has full QR-capability … we can create codes, host landing pages, track usage and create QR-unique ad and advertorial content just for smart phone users … an excellent way to reach the tech-savvy and early adopter demographic. SSGM can create QR codes which can be positioned like display advertising, within editorial copy or added to your existing ad creative … as well as custom products like mailers, pressure sensitive labels and promotional literature.

Call Marc Gadbois, Publisher, SSGM at 416-510-6776 or marc@ssgm.com for more details 34 SSGM April 2011

p 32-34 Sasso.indd 34

are in the headers, body and metatags of your site. But be careful not to overdo it. Search engines will penalize you for overusing words to try to trick them. In fact, some “black hat tricks,” like repeating words in invisible text, have actually got sites blackballed.

Being Popular:

Another factor Google uses in their algorithm is popularity — that’s measured by links for your site from others. Links are a powerful part of SEO — but not just links from any site. The better the quality of links to your site, the higher you’ll rank. For instance, a link from General Motors’ Web site will get you better page ranking than a link from a “link farm” like many SEO firms use.

To determine the quality of a site, Google uses a concept called Page Rank. To find out the Page Rank of various Web sites — as well as your own, download the Google Toolbar.

Among the tools is a page rank indicator. It ranks sites on a scale of one to ten. As you might expect, Google’s site ranks 10/10 and my personal website (www.philsasso.com) ranks 0/10. (Note to self: work on that.)

The best way to boost your popularity is to get links to your site from any other business or organization that you are affiliated with.

There’s Nothing Worse Than Old News

Keeping the information on your site current is very important in SEO. It’s even more important in making your site useful to your customers. I suggest having someone on your staff responsible for updating your site at least monthly with information including sales promotions, new services and other news.

Now, before you roll up your sleeves and start to put these ideas to use, ask yourself one question: what do you really want to do with your time? Would you like to invest hours optimizing your web site or would you rather be working on that Dodge out back? I think it’s best to stick to what you do best and like best.

I’ve warned you to avoid expensive SEO firms that charge hefty fees and promise you the moon. But that doesn’t mean I expect you to do this yourself. There are a lot of firms out there that are trustworthy. Chances are the company that built your web site can help you implement most of the simple tips I outline here. The key to success is to remember that you won’t jump to top rankings immediately. It took months for my shuttle bus client to get to the number one spot. And in more competitive categories it could take as long as a year just to get anywhere on the first page. Be patient.

SSGM Phil Sasso is the president of Sasso ­Marketing (sassomarketing.com), an automotive aftermarket advertising, public relations and Internet services agency. He’s also a speaker and strategist. Sign up for his free weekly marketing tip email at philsasso.com/blog. www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:16 PM

GY_RP_TimingBelts_Fllpg__SSGM.pdf

1

10-08-18

9:58 PM

ENGINEERED FOR THE IMPORT AND DOMESTIC MARKETS

JPN

D GERMANY

C

M

Y

CM

MY

CY

CMY

ROK SOUTH KOREA

K

S

JAPAN

F FRANCE

I

SWEDEN

GB GREAT BRITAIN

I TALY

Get power and performance with Gatorback® Timing Belt Kits.

Kits We’ve increased our import and domestic coverage. Our kits are designed for quiet operation, long life and shrink resistance and will meet or exceed OE standards. Water pumps included for a number of applications. For more information on Gatorback® Timing Belt Kits call 1-888-275-4397 Or, visit www.goodyearep.com The GOODYEAR (and Winged Foot Design) trademark is used by Veyance Technologies, Inc. under license from The Goodyear Tire & Rubber Company. 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. ©2009 Veyance Technologies, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

p 35 Goodyear Veyance ad.indd 35

05/04/11 1:40 PM

|| TACT Team Management

Never Let Them See You Sweat!

By Murray Voth, TACT (Total Automotive Consulting and Training)

M

any times, when facing difficult circumstances, it is hard to imagine things could be better again. In fact, when times are tough, our minds keep telling us that times will always be tough. In addition, when experiencing difficulty or failure, it is easy to believe that we are complete failures, that we have no skills or talent whatsoever. What were we thinking, going into business? This risk is not worth the stress and worry and pain.

We have just been through one of the most difficult economic times in many years and for some of us it is not over yet. However, even during the best economic times, there were automotive service shops closing their doors. Some were due to financial failure and poor management; some due to the owners giving up as it was just too much work and there was no fun in it any more. We all have struggles in life, in our relationships, in our work and in our businesses; yet there seem to be some individuals that rise above their challenges. Whether they know about this instinctively or have learned it, they seem to be able to learn from their mistakes, and overcome the difficulties life throws their way.

At the risk of sounding like a psychology textbook, I am going to explore this topic as it relates to surviving and succeeding as an automotive service provider. One of the key factors in a profitable automotive shop is car count, the number of customers bringing their vehicle to our shop. A second is the amount of money spent on that vehicle.

Many of us assume that our marketing and advertising bring customers to our door and that our sales skills cause them to spend money. What most of us don’t know is our emotional and mental state 36 SSGM April 2011

p 36-38 TACT.indd 36

actually has a significant effect on how many customers choose to come to our shop and how much they spend when they are there. Before you think that I am about to spout some psychobabble, think back to a specific day when your shop was busy. There were plenty of vehicles to service, customers were saying ‘yes’ to all the estimates. You felt confident, you joked around with staff and customers alike, and you found it easy to turn down people who wanted to bring in their own parts or asked you for credit.

Now think back to a recent day where things were quiet, hardly any vehicles in the shop and when presented with estimates, customers were turning down the work. You began to take in whatever work the ‘cat dragged in,’ people bringing their own parts, asking for credit (after the work is done) or customers asking for partial repairs or diagnosis, which then caused no end of problems. Usually, we think that we feel good because it was a good day or feel bad because it was a bad day. What people who rise above their difficulties know is that you have a good day because you expect it to be good and a bad day because you expect it to be bad. You have a good car count and customers spend money because you expect them to, rather than projecting your negativity and financial stress on to them and having them backing away.

Don’t worry, you are not about to get a lecture on the power of positive thinking. However, we are going to learn that how we think and respond to troubled times, actually affects how others respond to us. That old expression, “never let them see you sweat” applies here. What most of us don’t

know is that we as human beings are very sensitive to each other’s moods; in fact we can hear them and smell them.

When we are worried or stressed we create stress hormones and the human nose can detect these hormones in our perspiration and breath. As well, when we are stressed and worried our customers can sense it in our voice, and in our language. Many times when customers don’t show up or turn us down, it is because they sense our stress; they can’t put their finger on it, but it causes them to stay away or not to buy. In addition, we attract difficult customers because they buy into our stress or sense that they can take advantage of us in our stressed condition.

Many years ago, I received advice from one of my suppliers. This advice worked well, but it was only recently that I understood why, based on some research I was doing. He would show up at the shop and ask how things were going; of course there would be days when he was there when it was very quiet. We would complain about our circumstances to him and he would have an interesting response. He would say, “I see that bay door spring is still broken, how come you guys are not fixing it?” He asked me if I had ever noticed that when I started to do a project in the shop, like repair a broken bay door spring, as soon as I started, I would get interrupted by a customer on the phone or dropping by. The conversation would turn into an appointment and next thing you know we would be busy and the door would not get fixed.

I think you can all relate to this. Or he would ask, how many times when you are busy you run into a problem like a broken bay door spring, or an air line www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:16 PM

S:6.75”

S:9.5”

At NAPA, our entire line of chassis parts is precision-engineered to hold up under even the toughest road conditions. Not only that, but we have parts for nearly every make and model, so we’re sure we have the chassis part you’re looking for. It’s that kind of NAPA know how that has kept us going strong for 80 years. So when it comes to auto parts, trust NAPA. We have a lot riding on our parts, your customer’s chassis included.

p 37 Napa chassis ad.indd 37

NAPA. We Know Auto Parts. napacanada.com 1-866-GET-NAPA

05/04/11 1:41 PM

T:10.5”

IT HAS A CAR TO HOLD UP, NOT TO MENTION OUR REPUTATION.

|| TACT Team Management that needs to be repaired, but you are too busy to fix it, noting that you would do it on the next quiet day. However, when that next quiet day came along, you were too anxious or depressed to bother with catching up on shop maintenance. His advice was to get together as a shop and create a list of all repairs, maintenance and projects for the shop.

When a quiet day comes along, start with the list and begin to work through the projects.

This is not magic. Psychological research has found that the human mind cannot worry at the same time the mind (and body) are busy working. For example, you have a day with very few appointments coming in, you grab your shop maintenance list and begin one of the projects. While you are working on the project, it is impossible for your mind to worry. At a certain point, you may get interrupted by a phone call or a customer dropping by, you may even roll your eyes as you go to speak with them because of the interruption; but when you take the call, or greet them you

are your normal confident self because your mind has been distracted from its anxiety. Because of this, the customer senses confidence rather than anxiety and is much more likely to book an appointment or agree to some service work that you presented them. In addition, you may have a quiet day without interruption and get several of the projects completed. Many studies also show that when the human brain solves a problem, it rewards itself with a shot of endorphins. These are the feel good hormones, and yes we can smell them on each other. So even if that particular day remains quiet, we will feel like we had a good day and this will carry into the rest of the week. Next thing you know we are busy again. I have shared this with dozens of shop owners and they report back to me that it works!

The other key lesson from people who seem to rise above their tough times and succeed has to do with whether you are an optimist or a pessimist. This research comes from Dr. Martin Seligman and his team. He is

known as the father of the “positive psychology.” After decades of research they have found the following: When bad things happen to a pessimist, the pessimist assume that it will last forever, that “everything” has gone bad, and that it is their fault entirely. When a good thing happens to a pessimist, they believe that it is only temporary, that it only affects part of their life (glass half empty), and that it was only dumb luck. When a bad thing happens to an optimist they assume it won’t last long, they look to see what part of their life is not affected (glass half full), and don’t indulge in self-blame but take responsibility for their part if it is applicable. When a good thing happens to an optimist they consider its effects to be permanent, they see how much of their life is affected, and look to see how much they can take credit for, and how they can duplicate it.The good news is that a pessimist can learn optimistic habits, it takes hard work, but this knowledge is power and the rewards are worth it.

SSGM

Get back to enjoying your business!

Learn how to improve your repair facility’s profitability, productivity and reduce your stress.

Dave Meunier’s Automotive Management Training and Consulting group is one of the most sought after providers of business solutions for shop owners in Canada.

Flexible training courses are offered across Canada and include:

The explanation, for the success of TACT students comes from a well tested common sense approach to managing every aspect of day to day operations, starting in the bays and working its way to the income statement.

Advance PROShop Manager Modules – Full day topic specific sessions designed to allow you to get answers to your own shop challenges.

Topics include: � SHOP SYSTEMS & PROCEDURES � ADVANCED SERVICE ADVISOR SKILLS � PROFIT IMPROVEMENT STRATEGIES

Enrolling in one of Dave Meunier’s shop improvement courses will provide you with the confidence to analyze your business monthly to look for ways to improve profits and lower your stress.

3 Day Shop Management Course - This interactive training

course will teach owners to take better care of your customer, save them money and allow your shop to be more profitable than ever before.

PROSHOP Performance Groups – This is a once a month program, where automotive repair facilities come together to receive training, solve concerns affecting their business, implement solutions and take better care of their customers.

Just contact Lee Meunier, Toll Free at 1-866-489-8228 (TACT) or by email Lee@proshopmanager.ca

Brought to you by TACT Total Automotive Consulting & Training Group 38 SSGM April 2011

p 36-38 TACT.indd 38

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:16 PM

AUTO • INDUSTRIAL • FARM • TRUCK • MARINE • HOME

SUPERIOR LUBRICANT RUST & CORROSION PROTECTION LONG-TERM PENETRANT

®

SOLVENT FREE NON-TOXIC “WOOL WAX FORMULA”

BUSES • BOATS • SPORTS • AIRCRAFT • RV’S • BATTERY TERMINALS • ATV’S TRAILERS • TOOLS • SALT TRUCKS • FORESTRY • MINING • ELECTRICAL

WILL NOT DRY OUT OR EVAPORATE • NOT WATER SOLUBLE • DISPELS MOISTURE CAN BE APPLIED OVER DAMP / DRY SURFACES • TEFLON / SILICONE / SOLVENT FREE NON-CONDUCTOR. WILL NOT CAUSE STATIC ELECTRICITY, REDUCES STRESS CORROSION. PREVENTS ICE / SNOW FROM BUILDING UP ON MOVING PARTS. WORKS IN SUB-ZERO -50ºF - +350ºF.

NATURE GIVEN MATERIAL FLUID FILM UTILIZES THE UNIQUE MOLECULAR ACTION DERIVED FROM WOOL-WAX (Lanolin), (Nature given, taken from the wool of sheep), along with other corrosion inhibiting ingredients. One of the best lubricant and corrosion control agents found in nature today. FLUID FILM has been used for over 50 years in the Highly Corrosive Marine Environment of ships and off-shore drilling rigs. Certified Salt Spray Test - 1800 Hrs. U.S. Navy & has 10 assigned NAS (Military) Numbers.

FLUID FILM - developed and perfected as an unparalleled Rust & Corrosion Control System. Non-drying properties for Superior Lubrication. Once in place, stays put, forming a continuous, durable, ALWAYS ACTIVE protective barrier.

Will not harm painted surfaces, plastic, or most synthetic rubbers. Repels & resists water washout.

PROVIDES LONG-TERM PROTECTION FOR ALL YOUR TOOLS & EQUIPMENT SUPERIOR VEHICLE UNDERCOATING - RUST’S WORST ENEMY Penetrates right through rust, stopping all metal deterioration on contact. Migrates to inaccessible areas by capillary action. Impregnates the pores of exposed metal, keeping moisture & oxygen out. Excellent waterproofing with “NO DRIP” bonding properties. Terminates Both Natural and Industrial Atmospheric Corrosion. Eliminates the destructive corrosive effects of harsh chemicals such as calcium chloride, salt, fertilizers, herbicides and pesticides. FLUID FILM prevents steel from rusting; aluminum, magnesium, copper, tin, brass & zinc from oxidizing; chrome & bronze from pitting.

PROTECTIVE PROPERTIES START WORKING IMMEDIATELY • UNDERCOATING APPLICATION INSTRUCTIONS • SHAKE WELL BEFORE USING (Apply Sparingly) Apply FLUID FILM “NAS” by brush, roller, dipping or pressurized sprayer at 60 to 80 lbs. psi, (at the sprayer) with a spray nozzle orifice of 40 - 50 thou. KEEP CONTAINER TIGHTLY CLOSED. FLUID FILM UNDERCOATING INSTRUCTIONS: Give the vehicle’s undercarriage a blast of water to clean off any excess dirt and let the heavy water drip off for 5 minutes. Apply to the panels and doors as normal.

Apply FLUID FILM right over the damp metal. If any is dripping off, you are over-applying the product.

Acceptable for use in Food Plants in Canada

Bobcaygeon, Ontario K0M 1A0 • T: (705) 738-2321 • F: (705) 738-4550 www.nlsproducts.ca • mail@nlsproducts.ca

p 39 NLS Fluid Film ad.indd 39

FF0311EN

Aerosol (AS): # 1450 - 145 g, # 3300 - 333 g Bulk (NAS): # 3700 - 3.79 L Can, # 4300 - 20 L Pail, # 4500 - 208 L Drum, # 5207 - 237 ml Brush Top Can Items listed above are Canadian Food Inspection Agency Approved (CFIA)

05/04/11 1:41 PM

|| A/C Report continued from page 29 erants,” said DeGuiseppi. “(But) if you need tools and equipment right now, buy what you need to work on R-134a.

Don’t even think about the new stuff. Buy what is currently available, seriously. When that stuff comes around, you will need to buy a separate machine anyways. These cars with the new stuff are going to be coming in drips and trickles. There are millions of cars that use the older R-134a standard and are on the road now. This is what most, if not all, of the shops will be working on for many, many years.”

When buying equipment, he cautions to buy reputed brands and from reputed dealers. “It’s as simple as this, whenever you are buying equipment to work on AC systems buy the equipment that meets the SAE specification. That’s the best advice that I have. I’m talking about the recovery machines, the dyes and leak detectors. The most commonly used tools must meet the SAE standard.”

There is a great deal of choice in air conditioning service equipment. According to Bahlman, “The machines all operate fairly the same, some require a lot of input from the tech others are fairly automatic. With some systems you just hook up the vehicle, you punch in what the vehicle is and you literally just walk away. It will pull the vacuum, it will recharge to the exact amount of recharge and some of the machines will actually do the oil inject at the same time.”

FIND YOUR FUTURE IN OUR FRANCHISE. Together, with our recognized name, state of the art business systems and operations support, we can help you get into a business of which we believe you can be proud.

Find out today about becoming a Certigard franchisee.

Call us at 1 888 541-7632

“Highest overall Customer Satisfaction among Service Provider Brands” JD Power and Associates 2010 Canadian Customer Commitment StudySM

Certigard received the highest numerical score among service providers in the proprietary J.D. Power and Associates 2010 Canadian Customer Commitment StudySM. Study based on responses from 14,573 consumers measuring 30 providers and measures opinions of consumers who had their vehicle serviced at the dealership or after-market facilities. Proprietary study results are based on experiences and perceptions of consumers surveyed January-February 2010 and June 2010. Your experiences may vary. Visit jdpower.com A Suncor Energy business

TM

Trademarks of Suncor Energy Inc. Used under licence.

Ad_3.375” 40Franchisee SSGM April 2011

p 27-41 AC Report.indd 40

x 9”_Franchise Publication

What you do need to know about the new refrigerant standards

“First of all, the material itself, R-1234yf — the actual refrigerant — is more flammable compared to R-134a,” said Bahlman. “What that will mean, is that the shop must absolutely make sure that the materials are handled with care. So what they will have to use is use vessels and storage tanks that exactly meet all the regulations and the shops will not accept anything that looks like it was recycled or reused when transferring the material. The shop will have to make sure that they are buying from a reputable supplier.”

The fact that the R-1234yf is flammable should be a concern. “It is more volatile, but it does have a very high flashpoint so it takes a lot of ignition energy to make it burn,” he said. “So the procedures in the shop are still no smoking, no open flames, keep it away from sources of high heat, and stuff like that.”

“The material is effectively a derivative of the existing R-134a in that it is not necessarily a brand new compound.

It was designed primarily to function in existing systems in terms of the architecture system. So unlike R-744, unlike CO2, it is not a refrigerant that requires extremely high pressures to operate, like the CO2 type systems that they are still talking about in Europe. This does not drive massive changes into the architecture or the basic service procedures,” said Bahlman. “The tech will still have to do the same basic diagnostic from checking the temperature of the air coming out of the cabin vents to ultimately leak detection.

“The standard of the leak detections, in conjunction with this new material, is SAE 2791. There are some new leak detectors on the market that are better at picking up www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:14 PM

AC Report ||

Tracer Products’ TP-9364 PRO-Alert 2791 refrigerant leak detector utilizes an infrared sensor to detect refrigerant leaks down to 0.1oz/yer (three grams/year). The unit is sensitive to R-12, R-134a and all other HFC refrigerants.

the leaks, they eliminate false positives which will see the industry pushing the electronic leak detectors as a standard.”

Tony Ferraro, president of Uview Inc. is confident that his dyes will match the new standard. “We have product and the dye works with the new specs. So there is no change in the procedure or the equipment on our end.”

He said different hoses and fittings would be needed.

“We have already done some testing with our trace dyes.

They should work fine in R-1234yf systems. As for our electronic leak detectors, new software will be required to detect R-1234yf leaks,” said Bob Savasta, marketing communications manager for Spectronics/Tracer Products. “Newer vehicles have tighter systems, mainly because of better O-rings and seals.

“I expect R-1234yf systems to be even tighter. Aside from keeping the condenser clean and changing drive belts when they’re worn, there is not a lot of maintenance necessary for A/C systems. Of course, adding a trace dye never hurts, because you can locate leaks very early on, long before the customer will notice a change in cooling performance,” he said.

“We believe we will see its first use in Europe late this year if everything stays on track, and we should see some limited application in the North American market with the 2013 model year,” said Stumpff from the Bosch Diagnostics Business Unit. “But it’s probable that it will be at least www.ssgm.com

p 27-41 AC Report.indd 41

two-three years before these systems will hit most repair shops. Collision shops and dealers will probably see the new refrigerant first, and then aftermarket service facilities will get them.”

Bahlamn said that, “all of the requirements are actually coming together now, so we are actually on the edge of it in North America — it is not completely defined yet. This new standard will be able to detect down to fractions of a gram per year,” he said. “It is an extraordinary tight standard.

In fact, the standards are so tight that the typical dyes that they put in the systems will run the risk of contaminating components. Some OEM manufacturers in Europe do not recommend using dye with the new technology.”

What the technician has to understand is that the basics of the air conditioning unit will not have changed much, unlike those on hybrid and electric cars. “It is not deriving any major changes in the architecture in terms of how the system works. However, vehicles will not be able to be retrofitted,” said Bahlman. “The position of the European OEMs is that if you have a vehicle that was manufactured with R-134a in the system, then you must use that refrigerant.

“The reason why, is that they are anticipating a massive reduction in efficiency if you were to put R-1234yf into an R-134a system. They, the manufacturers, have not gone into any specifics about any damage to seals or components. This is something that is coming down and as a supplier we are coming up with our standards now.”

Due to the similarities in the systems, the machines that service them will be familiar.

“If a technician is looking at a recovery machine, the recovery machine itself will be similar with what you have that ran with R-134a,” said Bahlman. “There are machines being developed in Europe that will be able to handle both R-134a and R-1234yf. It would actually have an automatic purging circuit in the machine. So if a tech did a R-134a vehicle, presses a button, there is a self cleaning circuit that flushes all the hoses, lines and fittings from the machine then he would be able to switch vessels and service a car with R-1234yf.”

Should you, as a technician or as a shop manager start switching over to the R-1234yf standard? Not really. For one, “the refrigerant itself is in short supply,” according to Bahlman. The first cars might show up on showroom floors no earlier than 2013.

“When you look at the OEMs, they are going to continue manufacturing vehicles that use R-134a refrigerant through to 2017,” he said. “So there is a long grandfather period where we will have both systems on the market at the same time. The 2017 is a European standard right now but might become a global standard eventually.”

R-134a equipped cars will be manufactured for at least another six years and will be the predominant vehicle on the road for at least the next 15 to 20 years.

This is just like with any niggling problems on vehicles.

Should you worry about R-1234yf? No. Should you monitor the situation and keep yourself abreast of all developments?

Yes. SSGM April 2011 SSGM 41

07/04/11 2:14 PM

NX5195 Nanotechnology Fabric & Carpet Cleaner 650 ml NANOX Fabric & Carpet Cleaner effectively removes most food & grease-based stains, spots, stains on carpet, rugs, upholstery & more.

Stubborn Stain Remover, Pet-Friendly, Safe for All Fabrics.

STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX5195

Nanotechnology Fabric & Carpet Cleaner

650 ml

6

NX5126 Nanotechnology Leather Cleaner & Conditioner 450 ml NANOX Leather Cleaner & Conditioner cleans & conditions leather resulting in a natural, soft finish. Nano-polymers penetrate deep into the into the leather for fade resistance & ultimate U/V protection.

Easy to Apply, Cleans, Moisturizes STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX5216

Nanotechnology Leather Cleaner & Conditioner

450 ml

6

NX5264 Nanotechnology Interior Protectant 450 ml NANOX Interior Protectant is an non-greasy formula which protects vinyl, rubber & plastic against discoloration & aging. It cleans, renews & restores the natural shine while protecting against U/V radiation & oxidation. Non-Greasy Formula, Deep, Rich Finish, U/V Protection STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX5264

Nanotechnology Interior Protectant

450 ml

6

NX5347 Nanotechnology Tire Shine 650 ml NANOX Tire Shine rejuvenates & restores the glossy black look of new tires. Formulated with the latest nano-polymers & antioxidants. Tire Shine protects against U/V rays, grime & brake dust which results in cracking & fading.

High Gloss “Wet Look�, Long-Lasting Shine, Protects Against Cracking & Premature Aging STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX5347

Nanotechnology Tire Shine

650 ml

6

NX5358 Nanotechnology All Wheel Cleaner 650 ml All Wheel Cleaner is gentle enough for aluminum, chrome & custom wheel rims yet strong enough to remove dirt, grease & brake dust. The specially formulated cling formula lets you spray on, gently wipe & rinse.

Safe for All Wheel Finishes, Removes the Toughest Brake Dust & Dirt STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX5358

Nanotechnology All Wheel Cleaner

650 ml

6

1

p 42 NLS Nanox ad.indd 42

05/04/11 1:42 PM

NX5680 Nanotechnology Glass Treatment 650 ml NANOX Glass Treatment offers clearer visibility in all weather conditions improving driver comfort & safety. Water beading technology repels rain, sleet & snow.

Prevents Snow, Ice & Bug stickage, Improves Visibility, Reduces Glare

NX5695 Nanotechnology Detail Wax 650 ml NANOX Detail Wax is a revolutionary product for the ultimate showroom shine & protection. New isopolymer based waxes provide superior gloss with an ultra slick coating that resists dirt & paint destroying road film.

Resilient High Gloss Finish Detailed Finish Contains Nano-Polymers Long-Lasting Ultimate Shine

STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX5680

Nanotechnology Glass Treatment

650 ml

6

NX5695

Nanotechnology Detail Wax

650 ml

6

NX8134 Nanotechnology Car Wash & Wax 450 ml NANOX Car Wash & Wax is the first step to a showroom shine. New nanotechnology cleaning agents remove the toughest dirt & grime without stripping wax. It is safe to use on all painted surfaces, rubber, vinyl & plastic components.

High Suds Formula, Water Spot Resistant

NX8215 Nanotechnology Cleaner Wax 450 ml NANOX Cleaner Wax is the first one-step cleaner & polisher. This product easily removes light scratches & swirl marks & restores your vehicle’s original luster.

Cleans, Shines, Protects

STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX8134

Nanotechnology Car Wash & Wax

450 ml

6

NX8215

Nanotechnology Cleaner Wax

450 ml

6

NX8222 Nanotechnology Carnauba Polish 450 ml NANOX Carnauba Polish takes high gloss & superior shine to a new level. Nanotechnology polymers & pure Carnauba Wax offer the ultimate wet-look shine & long-lasting protection & resilience.

Unsurpassed Shine, Clear Coat Safe, Durable Finish

STOCK #

DESCRIPTION

SIZE

CASE QTY.

NX8222

Nanotechnology Carnauba Polish

450 ml

6

NX8303

Nanotechnology Scratch & Swirl Remover

300 ml

6

Box 790, Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0 T: 705-738-2321 • F: 705-738-4550 www.nlsproducts.ca • mail@nlsproducts.ca

HGEN12.10

NX8303 Nanotechnology Scratch & Swirl Remover 300 ml NANOX Scratch & Swirl Remover restores the vehicle’s finish from dull to a brilliant & dazzling shine. It acts quickly to smooth the surface, renew paint colour & produce a high gloss luster. The micro-abrasive particles work to remove discoloration, rust, tree sap, tar spots & salt deposits without damaging the vehicle’s surface.

Restores Paint Finish & Shine, Cleans Chrome & Aluminum

2

p 43 NLS Nanox ad.indd 43

05/04/11 1:42 PM

SSGM BAYWATCH New Products

dB Performance Exhausts for 2007-2010 Silverado/Sierra Trucks dB Performance Exhausts by Corsa continues to expand its product lineup with new cat-back exhaust systems for the 2007-2010 Chevrolet Silverado/GMC Sierra 2500HD 6.0L. Available in 10 different configurations to support all cab and bed sizes, the Silverado/Sierra exhaust systems feature stainless steel construction and mandrel bend, straight-through design for maximum airflow. Each dB Performance exhaust is finished with the company’s new, angled 4.0” Slash Cut polished tips that are laser etched with the dB by Corsa logo. Installation hardware and an illustrated installation guide are included with the limited 10-year warranty, bolt-on exhaust systems. dB Performance Exhausts www.dBexhaust.com

Shark Introduces Aluminum Series GasPowered, Cold-Water Pressure Washers Shark Pressure Washers is introducing their most user-friendly gas-powered cold-water series to date, the Aluminum Series. The Aluminum Series feature an innovative frame shape, lightweight design, and ideal weight distribution that make them incredibly easy to push or pull. The adjustable handle provides ergonomic handling for operator comfort and space saving storage and transport. The hose hanger and wand holder conveniently keep all pieces together while transporting or storing the pressure washer. Three models make up Shark’s new Aluminum Series, ranging from 2.5 GPM at 2700 PSI to 3.8 GPM at 3500 PSI. All models feature a weldless aluminum frame of 1 ¼” tubing, providing extreme durability and corrosion resistance in some of the harshest environments. The CARS AD SERIES 2010 crankcase, direct-drive pump is mounted with a unique support bracket to reduce strain and extend the life HORIZONTAL of the engine shaft. InFORMAT addition, the engine is set on four heavy-duty vibration isolators for 1/3 PAGE smooth operation.

Shark Pressure Washers www.sharkpw.com

FIX IT RIGHT EVERY TIME ONLINE TRAINING FOR AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY PROFESSIONALS

CALL TODAY 1-888-224-3834 www.cars-council.ca Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s Sector Council Program

44 SSGM April 2011

p 44-49 Baywatch.indd 44

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:17 PM

Spring Time Noise

By Chuck Carman, Curriculum Developer CARS

A

s spring time arrives and the snow and ice melts away leaving dry pavement, some Four Wheel Drive/All Wheel Drive (4WD/AWD) vehicle customers may begin to hear noises they had not noticed before. They may even have other concerns such as shuddering or binding in the drivetrain while operating in AWD or auto 4WD. When diagnosing these concerns, it is very easy to believe that there is an issue with the transfer case or front axle assembly. However, prior to replacing or rebuilding any component, it is important to consider the vehicle’s tires. Many manufacturers have technical bulletins discussing characteristics and concerns with these systems. Most manufacturers recommend verifying the tires as part of the diagnoses; the tire circumference in particular. Uneven tire circumference creates a difference between the speed of the front and rear driveshafts which causes a loading within the transfer case thus creating the noise and possibly shuddering.

To start the diagnosis, confirm that all the tires have the correct pressure as per the tire placard on the vehicle. The tire with the least amount of air has the smallest rolling circumference. However, do not make any adjustments to the tire pressure until further measurements have been done.

While inspecting each tire ensure they are the correct size for the vehicle and that they all match — this would include the same manufacturer, model and tread pattern. Two identically sized tires made by different manufacturers can have considerably different rolling circumferences.

Tread pattern can affect not only tire size but the amount of slip it allows. All tires need the same friction coefficient so they will grip and

www.ssgm.com

p 45 CARS advertorial.indd 45

slip under the same traction conditions. This is why, once the snow is gone, the noise appears. All the tires can now grip the road whereas, before, some slip may have been occurring allowing the system to operate correctly and therefore not producing any noise.

Tire tread depth is a good indication of tire wear. The tire with the lowest tread depth will have the smallest circumference. However, the difference in tread depth between tires may be considered inconsequential due to the small variations in measurement. A sixteenth-of-aninch difference in tread depth on a tire such as a 225/45R17, will equal an eighth-of-an-inch less in total diameter and 0.4 inches difference in rolling circumference. This means that the smaller tire rotates an extra four revolutions per mile more than the larger tires. These extra revolutions must be absorbed in the driveline.

A system with an on-demand AWD or Auto 4WD that uses a clutch pack to control the front to rear driveshaft slippage, will be constantly trying to apply the clutch to control the variations in the driveshaft’s speed. This could result in considerable wear reducing the life of the components and creating undesirable noise and vibrations.

For example, one manufacturer recommends that there is not to be more than a half-inch difference in the average circumference comparing front axle to the rear axle or side to side on the same axle. Sometimes, you may even find this much variation between four brand new tires.

This measurement is taken with the tire unloaded (vehicle is suspended from the hoist) using a tailors’ tape (or similar tool). An example would be the (Right Front (99.125”) + Left Front (99.3125”)) ÷ 2 = Average Tire

Circumference Of The Front Tires (99.219”) compared to (Right Rear (98.125”) + Left Rear (98.1875”)) ÷ 2 = Average Tire Circumference Of The Rear Tires (98.156”). This creates a difference of 0.659” which is over the specification between the two axles.

This vehicle had a very pronounced problem.

Keep in mind that with the weight of the vehicle on the tires and if the tire pressure is incorrect, the circumference difference could be even greater. This can be measured by marking the tire and the ground and rolling the vehicle one full tire revolution and measuring the distance travelled on the ground (this saves you having to use pi (π)).

So enjoy the spring and the oncoming of warmer weather but, as the 4WD concerns roll in, keep tire size in the back of your mind. Checking the tires may save you a lot of time and possible misdiagnosis and the customer money.

For more information on automotive technology visit CARS OnDemand training at: www.carsondemand.com If you have completed any of the Advanced Technology CARS OnDemand courses, CARS would appreciate you taking the time to complete a short 3 minute survey.

To access the survey please go to the CARS website, log-in and under “Account Details” choose “Participants Surveys” — “Advanced Technologies Student Survey”. Your feedback is important to us.

April 2011 SSGM 45

07/04/11 2:21 PM

TRANSMISSION, GAS, DIESEL ADDITIVES & CLEANERS

HG7018

Trans Plus with SMT2® 444 ml Completely revitalizes & hermetically tunes the automatic transmission.

• Restores smooth shifting • Reduces noise, heating, wear & vibration • Extends the service life of the transmission • Cleans the plates of varnish & gum • Restores elasticity & dimension to the valves & seals • Eliminates leakage • Protects rubber & neoprene seals from drying & cracking • Compatible with all automatic transmission fluids & additives

HG9014

7-Minute Radiator Flush 325 ml • Removes rust, crust & sludge from the cooling system in only 7 minutes • Restores proper cooling to engine & radiator • Highly concentrated • Compatible with all types of antifreeze • Safe for all engines - cast iron, steel & aluminum • Safe for all radiators - copper, brass, aluminum & plastic

HG2235

Leaks No More® Oil Treatment 444 ml • Restores elasticity - returns seals & gaskets to original size • Stops oil leakage through valve cover gaskets, oil pans, timing chains, manual transmission seal sand gaskets, front & rear crankcase bearings • Can be used to stop leaks in industrial gear boxes • Stops leaks in 500 km • Compatible with all oils - industrial, motor, mineral, synthetic & diesel

HG2251

Smoke No More Oil Treatment 444 ml • Highly concentrated oil stabilizer for high mileage engines • Increases engine life, reduces oil consumption & engine wear • Reduces engine noise, increases compression, maintains oil viscosity, does not smoke when burned • Compatible with all engine oils, synthetic and diesel • Ideal for all gasoline & diesel engines • One Container Treats Up To 4.7 L ™

HG3239

Complete Fuel System Cleaner 473 ml • One application cleans entire fuel system • Fuel injectors, float chamber, combustion chamber, intake valves • Idling system channels & accelerator pump • Maximizes power & improves fuel economy • Removes water & restores smooth idling • Safe for catalytic converters, oxygen sensors & turbo charged engines • Concentrated detergents activate to help dissolve & remove pollutants • Contains SMT2® which significantly reduces friction & wear with superior lubrication

BOX 790, BOBCAYGEON, ON K0M 1A0 T: (705) 738-2321 • F: (705) 738-4550 mail@nlsproducts.ca • www.nlsproducts.ca

p 46 NLS Hi Gear ad.indd 46

HGADEN03.11

PO30 (For Diesel Autos & Light Trucks) 473 ml Premium Complete Diesel System Conditioner Removes all harmful deposits left as a combustion by-product • Treats 379 L • Works to clean dirty injectors • Prevent corrosion • Improve fuel lubricity • Ultra Low Sulfur Diesel compliant • Meets Cummins L-10 Specifications

05/04/11 1:43 PM

COOLING SYSTEM SEALANT (Auto, Truck & Heavy Duty Equipment) Heavy Duty

HG9048 / HG9072

INSTA-SEAL™ 236 ml / 946 ml A permanent engine block & head sealer formulated with ceramic micro-fibers & copper fines flows into the smallest cracks & holes forming a permanent seal.

Compatible with all types of coolants & will not block cooling systems • No need to drain cooling system prior to use • For use in cooling system of all gasoline & diesel engines • Will not void any manufacturer’s warranty • Formulated with ceramic of varying size to insure a fast, permanent seal of all holes • One 236 ml bottle treat up to 16 L & 946 ml bottle treats up to 83 L of antifreeze

Seals holes & cracks in head, radiator, heater core, head gaskets & freeze plugs

SMT2 SYNTHETIC METAL TREATMENT

HG2514 / SMT2528

SMT2® Synthetic Metal Treatment 236 ml • Significantly reduces friction 650 % or more • Lowers operating temperature up to 20 % • Improves shifting & quiets transmissions & differentials • Increases anti-corrosion resistance • Improving fuel efficiency & power • Extends engine life & related components • 100 % synthetic, non-toxic & contains no petroleum, teflons or silicones

SMT2626

Add At Anytime To Your Oil!

SMT2® Synthetic-Blend Tune-Up 444 ml • Prevents thinning, oxidation, decomposition of oil & additives due to combustible chamber gases that leak into crankcase • Prolongs service life of oil & engine • Restores PVC life, cleans the oil ventilation system • Frees stuck hydraulic lifters • Cleans piston rings of varnish, restore proper fit • Does not harm oil, seals, gaskets or engine • Encapsulates, consolidates pollutants in crankcase for easy removal at oil change • Compatible with all mineral, synthetic oils, including diesel oils • Safe for turbocharged engines • Especially effective in high mileage engines • Replaces Rislone # 100LR, # 100QR, # 34100, # 150C, # 34102

AUTOMOTIVE & MARINE / RV CLEANERS

HG8905

Cleans It All - Automotive Cleaner 946 ml Eliminates the need for a garage full of cleaning chemicals to suit every application.

• Carpet stain remover, dashboard & panel cleaning, engine degreasing, etc • Dilute as necessary depending on the application (instruction includes) • Clear-coat safe • Safe on metals, plastic, rubber & finishes • Non-corrosive • Non-toxic, biodegradable, environmentally safe

HG8910 Cleans It All - Marine & RV Cleaner 946 ml • Engine, bilge cleaning & degreasing • All exterior surfaces including fiberglass, gel coat • Carpeting, interior cabin surfaces • Stainless Steal, metal railings, chrome • Teak, canvas, vinyl • Glass, plastic

BOX 790, BOBCAYGEON, ON K0M 1A0 T: (705) 738-2321 • F: (705) 738-4550 mail@nlsproducts.ca • www.nlsproducts.ca

p 47 NLS Hi Gear ad.indd 47

05/04/11 1:43 PM

SSGM BAYWATCH New Products

Hunter OCL430HD Rotor Lathe For Heavy-Duty Brake Service Hunter’sOCL430HD rotor lathe greatly improves medium- and heavy-duty service by machining the rotor on the vehicle. Hub-mounted service eliminates the need to disassemble the hub to remove the rotor, saving a tremendous amount of time and effort.

Machining the rotor on the hub also significantly reduces runout, providing a more precise cut and extending the life of expensive rotors. The OCL430HD includes all of the operational features of Hunter’s popular OCL410 lightvehicle brake lathe, yet adds more robust lathe components to handle larger rotors. With a reinforced cutting arm and rugged tool holders, the

OCL430HD resurfaces rotors up to 17.5 inches in diameter and up to 3.5 inches in thickness. A 1.5-hp, 230 VAC motor provides the additional torque required for medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The ServoDrive system enables technicians to vary the spindle speed and rotational torque of the lathe while in operation.

Pro-Comp computerized compensation adjusts for lateral runout with a push of a button and a simple single-point adjustment, allowing the technician to quickly complete the machining of the rotor within OEM specifications.

Hunter Engineering Company www.hunter.com

Bosal Catalytic Converters Meet New Emissions Standards Bosal USA Inc. now offers a special line of catalytic converters, which are designed to comply with emissions regulations in California. Bosal currently offers a wide variety of direct-fit units for select vehicles from model years 1995 to current. Coverage extends to over 29 makes and 150 different models of cars, light trucks, vans, and SUVs, including Acura, Audi, BMW, Chevrolet, GEO, GMC, Honda, Hyundai, Infiniti, Isuzu, KIA, Lexus, Mercedes, Mitsubishi, Nissan, SAAB, Subaru, Suzuki, Toyota, VW, and Volvo.

Bosal catalytic converters are quality built to deliver OE fit and form. They feature heavy gauge stainless steel construction with seam welded design, a ribbed body for structural stability and durability, smooth flowing inlet/outlet joints, and a monolithic honeycomb catalyst for maximum flow.

Bosal USA Inc. www.bosal.com

48 SSGM April 2011

p 44-49 Baywatch.indd 48

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:19 PM

SSGM BAYWATCH New Products

Rancho Offers 2011 Ford Super Duty Suspension System, Leveling Kit Rancho has released a suspension system and a leveling kit for 2011 Ford Super Duty F-250/F-350 trucks, including 1and ¾-ton diesel and gas models. The Rancho Ford Super Duty suspension system (RS6524B) features tubular radius arms that add strength and stability to the suspension system. The radius arms bolt directly to the OE mounting locations without cutting or welding.

Compatible with up to 37-in. tires, the new Rancho system includes competition tubular radius arms; forged pitman arm to ensure optimal steering and reduced

bump steer; re-inforced front track bar relocation bracket; and rear leaf spring blocks. The new system also works with stock wheels. The Rancho system maintains the factory location of the rack and pinion and re-uses OE tie rod ends. Rancho engineers also maintained proper driveshaft angles, minimizing vibrations. It does not affect the vehicle’s AdvanceTrac with RSC (Roll Stability Control) system.

The 2.5-in. leveling kit (RS6525B) for the 2011 Ford Super Duty that provides maximum structural integrity. The kit — which fits up to 35-in. tires — features competition tubular radius arms that add strength and stability to the suspension system. The radius arms bolt directly to the OE mounting locations without cutting or welding. The leveling kit also maintains proper driveshaft angles to minimize vibrations; maintains factory location of the rack and pinion and re-uses OE tie rod ends.

Rancho www.gorancho.com

New Site Launched For Airtex Water Pumps and Water Pump Timing Kits ASC Industries Inc., manufacturer and supplier of Airtex-branded water pumps and water pump timing kits, has released a new Web site dedicated to the branded products at www.airtexwaterpumps.com.

The user-friendly site was developed to provide an easyaccess online catalog, cooling system information, technical articles and advice, installation instructions, new product announcements and links to both Web sites for Airtex Fuel Delivery Systems and Airtex Engine Management products. Additional enhancements to the site are planned for 2011 including the introduction of technical videos.

ASC Industries Inc. www.airtexwaterpumps.com www.ssgm.com

p 44-49 Baywatch.indd 49

Canadian Distributors

April 2011 SSGM 49

07/04/11 2:20 PM

The Most Effective Precision A/C Injection System!

NEW

O APPREM OVED

A True Professional A/C Cartridge System Easiest & Most Accurate Gun On The Market!

One Squeeze Injects A Pre-Measured Amount of Dye, No Over Injection All Metal Construction, Smooth Operation Injector Stock # 13001(Injector, Hose, Adapter & Purge Fitting)

Long Hose for Easy Access

Stock # 140211 Pro-Shot & Universal A/C Cartridge Kit 1 Shot per Vehicle - Guaranteed 64 Applications SAE J-2297 CERTIFIED

1 Shot per Vehicle Guaranteed 64 Applications 237 ml Cartridge Stock # 140100

R12 & R134a

Eco-B rit Solve nt e DyesFree

Purge Fitting

A Totally Clean System, No Leaks

RUGGED • STURDY • TOUGH Pre-measured application every time - No guess work • Guaranteed 64 Applications per cartridge

World’s Most Economical A/C Fluorescent Leak Detection Dye Injector Kit • EASY • QUICK

• CLEAN • VISIBLE

Stock # 270475 Easy-Fill Complete Leak Detection Kit • BSL845 Star Brite Light

• 16 - ECO-BRITE Easy-Fill Dye Syringes, Super Concentrated (Treats 16 Vehicles) • 7.5 ml bottle Coolant Leak Dye (Treats 1 Vehicle) • 7.5 ml bottle 4-in-1 Dye for Oil, ATF, PSF, Hydraulic, Gas & Diesel (Treats 1 Vehicle)

• Easy-Fill Multi-Shot Injector

• 16 Under hood ID Labels • 59 ml Dye Cleaner • Fluorescence-enhancing U/V glasses • Plastic Carrying Case

The Best Lights for A/C Leak Detection in the Industry BSL845 Star-Brite • Most powerful LED Lamp of its size & class in the world • So powerful the operating range is up to 15 M (50 feet) • Patented high-tech LED technology with advanced optics • Comparable to 100 Watt, 80,000 hour LED life • Great performance • Fits in your pocket • Compatible with all quality leak detection dyes

BSL845

LIGHT SA OEM RE APPR OVED

Box 790, Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0 T: 705-738-2321 • F: 705-738-4550 www.nlsproducts.ca • mail@nlsproducts.ca

p 50 NLS Bright Solutions ad.indd 50

BSI/ENAD02.11

06/04/11 8:03 AM

A/C Dye Brightest Dyes • Faster, More Accurate Leak Detection

BRIGHTEST UNIVERSAL DYES IN THE INDUSTRY • Maintains fluorescence 5 years, or more, after application • Exceeds all industry performance standards • Compatible with R12, R22, R134a & with the NEW Refrigerant HF01234yf (In 2011) • Exceeds SAE J-2297

es

ye

OE APPR M OVED

nt Solveee Fr

Use with Pro-Shot Injector # 13001

Stock # B704012Y Stock # B704206Y 7.5 ml (Treats 1 Vehicle)

30 ml (Treats 4 Vehicles)

Stock # B704008BY

237 ml (Treats 64 Vehicles)

Stock # 140100

237 ml (Treats 64 Vehicles)

Eco-Brite Super Concentrated Universal A/C Fluorescent Dye Syringes & Stay-Brite Oil / Coolant Dyes

Easy-Fill Junior Starter Kit # 270439 (8 Syringes # 770400-08)

SAE J-2 CERT297 IFIED

ECO-BRITE Easy-Fill (2.5 ml) One Shot Syringe One Shot Syringes with Injector Hose (BSL746) - (Treats 8 Vehicles) BSI 4-in-1 Dye - For Oil Based Fluids Oil, ATF, PSF, Hydraulic, Gas & Diesel!

Highly Concentrated & Glows Bright!

Works with ANY leak detection light

(Treats 8 Vehicles)

# 770400-32 (Treats 32 Vehicles) # 770400-64 (Treats 64 Vehicles)

BSI Coolant Dye - For Water Based Fluids ALL Extended Life & Conventional Coolants!

Use with ALL coolants!

SOLVENT FREE

Stock # B719006 7.5 ml (Treats 1 Vehicle)

Stock # B715006 7.5 ml (Treats 1 Vehicle)

2)

OEM ED OV P AP R

# 770400-08 Easy-Fill Refills

Stock # B715008 237 ml (Treats 32 Vehicles)

Stock # B719008 237 ml (Treats 32 Vehicles)

All Illustrations may not be exactly as shown.

Box 790, Bobcaygeon, ON K0M 1A0 T: 705-738-2321 • F: 705-738-4550 www.nlsproducts.ca • mail@nlsproducts.ca

p 51 NLS Bright Solutions ad.indd 51

06/04/11 8:03 AM

2011 SSGM Garage of the Year Presented by:

Valvoline Professional Series, a comprehensive line of professional-grade service chemicals

Now, We Do It All!

Who has the best shop in Canada?

The 2011 SSGM Garage of the Year, presented

by Valvoline, seeks to recognize the very best independent service provider in the Canadian automotive aftermarket.

I Nominate:_________________________________ Garage Name________________________________ Owners Name_______________________________ Address_____________________________________ Phone(____)_________________________________ The reason I believe this nominee deserves this award is: ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________

Anyone can nominate an automotive service provider. The award recognizes excellence in the areas of good business practice, training, customer satisfaction and community involvement.

Make copies and simply ask your customers, suppliers, members of your community or even competitors to complete this form. Return all your nomination forms by fax or mail to SSGM

by September 20, 2011, or be nominated online at ssgm.com.

The finalists will be identified in the October issue of SSGM and the winner will be announced in the December issue.

Valvoline lauto.indd 1 p 52 Garage of the Year.indd 52

____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________

My Name:__________________________________ Address_____________________________________ Phone(____)_________________________________ Nominate your choice online at www.ssgm.com or complete and mail this form at left to:

SSGM Garage of the Year

12 Concorde Place, Suite 800, North York, ON M3C 4J2 or fax to: 416-510-5140

3/25/11 8:40 AM 05/04/11 1:44 PM

NEW Our improved design makes our Web Site easier to use, more interactive and features more technical installation and repair videos than ever before.

MORE PRODUCTS l MORE INDUSTRY NEWS l MORE VIDEOS l

Log on to see the New

www.SSGM.com p 53 web ad.indd 53

05/04/11 1:45 PM

Automotive Internet Directory

Visit these companies directly at their web addresses or check out the growing list of Hot Links at www.autoserviceworld.com. To find out how your organization can be included in this directory and on the web, contact aross@jobbernews.com

AUTOMOTIVE PARTS & ACCESSORIES Goodyear Engineered Products www.goodyearep.com/aftermarket www.goodyearbeltsandhose.com The officially licensed belt of NASCAR. Gatorback, the quiet belt. You can never replace Goodyear quality.

NGK Spark Plugs Canada Limited www.ngksparkplugs.ca The World Leader in Spark Plugs, Oxygen Sensors and Ignition Wire Sets.

Used by 87% of the World’s OE Manufacturers S.B International Inc. www.sbintl.com “We keep engines humming”

AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLERS Carcone’s Auto Recycling and Wheel Refinishing www.carcone.com With over 32 years of experience Carcone’s Auto Recycling & Wheel Refinishing is your one stop for quality recycled products and wheel refinishing needs. Call today at 1-800-263-2022 or visit us on line at www.carcone.com

AUTOMOTIVE RECYCLERS Standard Auto Wreckers View Our Online Inventory @ www. standardautowreckers. com or call 416-286-8686.

Experienced Shipping Department to Ensure Parts Arrive Safely.

HAND CLEANERS GOJO Industries, Inc. www.automotive.gojo.com GOJO is a leading manufacturer of skin care products and services for many marketing including automotive and manufacturing. GOJO continues to pursue a commitment of creating well-being through hand hygiene and healthy skin.

REFRIGERANT Duracool Refrigerants

www.duracool.com Nationally Distributed by: Deepfreeze Refrigerants Inc. The Leaders in Hydrocarbon Refrigerant Technology. Guaranteed In writing not to harm any Mobile A/C System. You can feel the Difference that Quality Makes. “Our Formula Never Changes”.

ADVERTISERS’ INDEX

Advertiser Page # Website ACDelco. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 56. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ACDelco.com AIA Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.carcarecanada.ca Affinia Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.carquest.ca Bridgestone Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.bridgestonetire.ca CARS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.carps-council.ca EQUSS. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.equss.com Honeywell Consumer Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9,31. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.honeywellcpg.com Identifix. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.identifix.com Imperial Oil. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.mobil.ca Mister Starter. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.misterstarter.com Monaco Group . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10,48 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.monaco-group.ca Monroe. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 7. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.kyp.aftermarketsuppliers.org NAPA. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 21,37 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.napacanada.com Nederman. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.nederman.ca NGK Spark Plugs. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 3. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.ngksparkplugs.com NLS Products. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23,39,42,43,46,47,50,51. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.nlsproducts.ca NOCO Lubricants Company. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.noco.ca Petro Canada Certigard. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13,40 . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.petro-canada.com Ross-Tech LLC . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 49. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.VCDS-ProKit.com Shell Canada. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.shell.ca/nitrogen Standard Auto. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 33. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.standardautowreckers..com Valvoline Oil Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 55. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.valvoline.com VDO. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.vdo.com/usa Veyance Technologies. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 35. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.goodyearep.com VL Communications. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.vlcomm.com Wakefield Canada . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . www.wakefield.ca 54 SSGM April 2011

p 54 Internet Directory and ad index.indd 54

TOOLS & EQUIPMENT AIR LIQUIDE CANADA INC. www.airliquide.ca Your one-stop shop for all your industrial gases and welding supplies.

WAREHOUSE DISTRIBUTORS & BUYING GROUPS Bestbuy Distributors Limited

www.bestbuyautoparts.ca Independent buying group and warehouse distributor that allocates its profits to member shareholders and provides unbeatable value for independent jobbers.

The E.R.I. Group www.theerigroup.com Canada’s Premier Machine Shop Buying Group Kerr Machine Shop Group Inc.

www.kerrmachineshopgroup.com Buying group for machine shops and performance shops.

Go to www.ssgm.com to see the latest technical videos and tools tests with SSGM Magazine’s Technical Editor Jim Anderton.

www.ssgm.com

07/04/11 2:22 PM

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.* Mechanics can use any oil they want. They choose the one with a proven reputation for quality, protection and a history of innovation. Valvoline.

100 YEARS UNDER THE HOOD.

TM

p 55 Valvoline ad.indd 55

06/04/11 10:30 AM

99-5305 I Client: ACDelco I Project: ACD TSS Ad I Date: 11-04-06 I Trim: 8 1/8x10 7/8”” I Bleed: 1/8” I Colours:

C

M

Y

K I Ad#: ACD-TSS-11-4CF-301-EN

CMG MARKETING • 1125 Leslie St, Toronto, Ontario M3C 2J6 • T 416.646.3050 • F 416.646.3051

I Docket#:

p 56 AC Delco ad.indd 56

07/04/11 10:04 AM