September 2010 Issue

PM 40014105

September 2010, Volume 8, Number 5, $5.95, www.autosphere.ca

Brampton Discount Auto Parts

Change and Grow Khaled Abu Dagga

cover page

20 8 Contents

features 06

18

Better Business Keys

20

Training = Better Skills

22

24

Education

26

OBD3

27

CARS Council

Planning for Peak Potential

16

An Essential CARS Report

Filters

Reminders

28

Garage Business

Are you Insane!

Training Equals Success

17

Spark Plugs

Is maintenance still necessary?

Heating & Air Conditioning

15

Are you ready?

It’s winter time, once again

Does your Client Know???

14

From the Atlantic to the Richelieu

NAPA Rally 5000 – 8 Days of Events

Training

Do you have all the solutions ?

12


Change and Grow

Training: A BIG Plus for Your Shop

10

Uni-Select Charity Golf Tournament

Great golf, a big cheque for charity and a memorial

Ratios- Key to Bottom-line Performance

08

17

30

NASCAR, it’s mechanical!

Not sophisticated? Think twice!

Engine Lubrication

Synthetic Oils – The Lubes of Tomorrow

32

Frankfurt Automotive Trade Fair

35

Automechanika - 2010 Winners

34

New Technology

D-Drive Infinitely Variable Transmission

Quality is Best

Value added services... priceless

38

AIA Canada

Of Interest to All

in e v ery issue . . .

04 Editorial

Training and Education … AGAIN

36 New Products

37 Around

the Industry

37 Advertiserss

Visit us on us stage. on theVisit world the world stage. www.bluestreak.ca www.bluestreak.ca

2 0 1 0 E v ents C alendar September 13-16, 2010  EV 2010 Conference and Trade Show  Vancouver, BC z www.emc-mec.ca

September 2010

September 14-19, 2010  Automechanika  Frankfurt, Allemagne  z neeta.correa@canadamesse

November 2-4, 2010  AAPEX  Sands Expo & Convention Center  Las Vegas, NV

November 2-5, 2010  SEMA  Las Vegas Convention Center  Las Vegas, NV

November 25, 2010  Tribute to Industry Pioneers  Hôtel Mortagne  1228, rue Nobel Boucherville, QC  Info: Françoise Poynee & Tel.: 514-289-0888, poste 28 z [email protected]

Our new international calling card. Our new international calling card. by

by

CASP BS_Intermotor Contents Page material

| www.autosphere.ca | September 2010 | CarCare Business |

3

editorial Founding Publisher Rémy L. Rousseau Publisher Isabelle Courteau Associate Publisher Shirley Brown Contributing Editors Jack Kazmierski, Guy O’Bomsawin, François Charron, Frank Tonon, Dave Redinger, Bob Greenwood, Jean-Luc Sauriol, Éric Descarries, Alain Faleix, Lesley Wimbush and Pierre Lalonde Production Coordinator Jarushka Fucikovsky Graphic Designer Perfection Design

Training and Education … AGAIN You’ve heard that old adage “You’re never too old to learn”. Some people scoff at that, but today, more than ever, it’s so true!

E

verything is changing, and in the auto

customer care; technique… all aspects of run

motive aftermarket maintenance indus

ning a business competently and profitably.

try, you must be ahead of the game, so

training and education is important.

Lifelong effort

Change is constant in that world, too—dentists must train to use it correctly… just like a technician. There are

out your whole life… because of change. Your

new methods of treating patients; the patient

Dad did it one way, but you must do it a differ

wants different things today like whitening

ent way… you/your technicians are not work

devices; fifty years ago the dentist pulled

ing on the same types of vehicles, the same

teeth out, now they ‘save’ teeth. All this takes

engines, the same systems he did. But it’s not

training… just like at your shop.

just technology that’s changed; mentalities have changed. It’s not ‘Customer Service’ any

You need to train to speak well to people; to

more, it’s ‘Customer Care’, so you have to change

explain your services and how they’re done; to

your outlook in how you take care of them.

show the client what maintenance items need doing now for safety purposes, to keep the vehicle from breaking down.

ques. Today the customer wants to know exactly what you’re going to do—most are pretty

Training needs to be a constant in your life…

knowledgeable about maintenance items.

your business will function better. And besides,

Managing

you really can train an old dog to do new tricks!

It’s important to manage your employees

While on the subject of training, please visit

better… you need to explain that you work

our website autosphere.ca, you’ll find news of

as a team; you need to know your technicians’

interest and learn something!

skills are ready for the tests of new vehicles and that they’ll gladly take further training. Training today is not just about technical skills… it’s about management; it’s about generating more sales; selling different items to consumers;

4

| CarCare Business | September 2010 | www.autosphere.ca |

Photographers Marie-Josée Rousseau and Jack Kazmierski Administrative Assistant Françoise Poynee Circulation Manager Nancy Belleville Sales Assistant Marie-Hélène Côté Business Development Managers Luc Champagne [email protected] 514-945-1299 Réjean A. Rousseau [email protected] 450-649-9007 Garth Vogan [email protected] 905-689-1963 Subscription One-year: $27.95

Two-year:

$49.95

Three-year:

$59.95

Published by

Think of dentistry… new technology abounds

Education and training must be done through

It’s necessary to learn or relearn sales techni

Revisors and Translators Shirley Brown and François Charron

Rémy L. Rousseau

[email protected]

455, rue Notre-Dame Est, suite 311 Montreal, QC H2Y 1C9 & 514-289-0888/toll free 877-989-0888 2 514-289-5151 z [email protected] CarCare Business Magazine is dedicated to serving the business interests of the maintenance and repair industry. It is published seven times a year by Rousseau Automotive Communication, a member of AIA Canada. Material in CarCare Business may not be reproduced in any form without written consent from the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to refuse any advertising and disclaims all responsibilities for claims or statements made by its advertisers or independent columnists. All facts, opinions and statements appearing within this publication are those of the writers and editors themselves, and are in no way to be construed as statements, positions or endorsements by Rousseau Automotive Communication.

FSC LOGO HERE (PRINTERS JOB) Printed in Canada Issn no. 1920-731X Publications Mail Agreement no. 40014105. Return undelivrable Canadian addresses to Rousseau Automotive Communication / Circulation Department, 455, rue NotreDame Est, suite 311, Montréal, QC H2Y 1C9

Bob Greenwood (AAM) is Founder and President of Automotive Aftermarket E-Learning Centre Ltd. (www.aaec.ca) with over 34 years experience advising Independent shops on all facets of their business. You can reach him by phone at 1-800-267-5497 or by e-mail at [email protected]

Bob Greenwood

Better business keys

Ratios – key to bottom-line performance Let’s face it; the industry is weaned on sales. Everyone talks about sales. Sales are up, down, soft, have tanked. So what has this taught the average shop owner who lacks solid business acumen? Watch your sales because everyone else does.

A

shop can have the best sales in

measurements into play. To ensure the

the marketplace and still be broke.

right balance is being focused upon and

They’re just busy. This activity based

measured to achieve bottom-line profit

format doesn’t guarantee financial suc

ability, key ratio measurements in the

cess; in fact, being too busy could be its

preventative maintenance world come to

demise. The skill now lies in management

the surface.

being able to understand the sales mix in order to ensure the right net income is

Do you measure these key items weekly

made for the company.

and monthly in your business? 1. Inventory turn-earn index by category

Dramatic change

2. Tires units sold per hoist ratio

Shop business has changed dramatically.

3. Minimum 3 and up to 6 door rates are

Anyone who just relies on breakdown and

now in play set based on tech wage

repair business is in, or heading for, severe

cost, tech competency and hardware

financial trouble. They’re finding they’re working harder than ever to stay afloat

equipment/ internet subscription equi‑

as well as have bought themselves a job,

Changing net profit

and a very poor one at that. Management

“Bob proved the math behind each meas

has not transitioned the business to a

urement and how it would change our net

knowledge-based format. This is where

profit. We sped up our succession plan,

technical competencies, in terms of diag

then went on to change our measuring

nostic skills, coupled with customized

and day-to-day managing processes. His

client relationship management come

measurement guidelines and manage

together in the preventative maintenance

ment teachings gave us incredible results.

6

nance hours billed ratio 5. Accounts receivable to sales ratio 6. Cash in bank to accounts receivable ratio 7. Current assets to current liability ratio

“My skill is now in managing the entire

9. Labour sold to parts ratio

business that’s grown to 10 hoists, 14 bays

10. Hours billed per invoice for regular

One ‘student’ who took my Business

with 7.5 techs, 2 oil change/tire person

Management class learned a lot from it

nel and 4 Service Advisors. I monitor every

and was able to pump up his business.

key measurement, then adjust shop pro

Rob Scott, president, Glenwood Auto

cesses where needed to ensure we achieve

Service, Saskatoon stated, “The tradi

our goals. The opportunities moving for

tional methods weren’t working. So, I went

ward are incredible.”

to the Business Management class. Key

4. Diagnostic hours billed to Mainte

8. Labour sold to wage ratio

world to serve the consumer in a more professional format.

rements

vehicle, mid duty and heavy-duty work 11. Net income before tax to total sales ratio.

Running and managing a profitable shop

measurements were the name of the

Key ratio measurements

game, and I found we had nothing in place

That business worked out well… because

while paying above market wages to staff

to really measure how we were actually

the owner realized something needed

and management is a highly skilled pro

doing. The old traditional statements told

changing. Old methods don’t work well

fession. It is no longer a Trade. Are you on

us nothing about our business.”

today, so he put the key business ratio

top of your business game today?


today delivering bottom-line performance

NEVER MISS A STOP WITH RAYBESTOS BRAKES ®

STOPPING POWER THAT KEEPS YOUR FLEET ON SCHEDULE AND IN BUDGET. When you’re in the business of transporting people there is no time to worry about bad brakes. If your fleet uses inferior brake products, their brake systems may be in jeopardy of overheating during a hard braking event or continuous stop and go. Raybestos® brand School Bus Fleet products will maintain performance levels at high temperatures, reduce your fleet’s overall cost per mile and perform quietly and cleanly. So install Raybestos® brand School Bus Fleet brake products and keep your buses where they belong: on the road and on schedule. CONTACT YOUR LOCAL RAYBESTOS SALES REP FOR MORE INFORMATION. WWW.RAYBESTOS.COM

Shirley Brown

[email protected]

Training = Better Skills

Training: A BIG Plus for Your Shop Today’s vehicles are more complicated; you don’t have young techs at your shop; your guys don’t like to go to training sessions after work… there’s a myriad of excuses concerning training and time and money! But if you’re a NAPA AUTOPRO… you don’t need excuses!

W

e spoke with the experts at NAPA

their employees are constantly informed

increase the employee’s productivity.

who are very involved with ‘NAPA

about the latest technology and thus re-

This is an important part of the training

Excellence’… the NAPA online

tain more customers.

program and should be used routinely.”

Training and Workforce Development

Online training

The NAPA Excellence online training

and Nathalie Gareau, Director of NAPA

So just what is NAPA Excellence? Well,

is vast and so good for shop owners

Excellence told us how the training works

the mission is— to provide clients the best

and their employees… today training

and why it is so beneficial.

quality learning curriculum through their

is a BIG plus and a great tool for any

training portal. Jacynthe Pigeon, Advisor,

24/7 online learning management sys-

shop and employees. In fact, we talked

“We’d like to put the emphasis on the

tem. They have a web platform that hosts

to some shop owners whose employ-

importance of training for technicians and

a library of e-learning modules; training

ees are taking the training to get their

that the shop owner must believe in it as

needs assessment tool, and sales and

impression of why they invested in the

well, thereby making sure that his techs

navigation tutorials and tools. They also

program.

are well trained for the maintenance and

have a team of professionals to support

repair they need to do on today’s vehicles.

you 24/7 for technical and training needs.

In reality, training can mean more success,

Bob White of Manitolulin Island, owner

more skills and better customer relations

Nathalie continued, “The shop owner

of White’s Shell AUTOPRO had this to

that could add up to more profit. The

pays a monthly fee and is then given a

say about the NAPA Excellence program.

owner must believe in training and stress

personalized password for each of his em-

“We’re strong believers in training. We

this importance to his technicians,” states

ployees so they have personalized access

support our staff and don’t expect em-

Jacynthe.

and profiles based on their particular job

ployees to do training courses on their

to the online training and will be able to

own time. What I do to make it work is

choose from the menu they need for their

pay them three hours extra on each pay

“We can likely best compare training to an

specific occupation. Today there are over

cheque to do their training at home, and

exercise regime… you need to make it a

6,000 ‘students’ using the online training

they’re required to submit a training

routine. When it becomes a routine, you

courses in more than 700 locations.

course each pay period. I wanted this

Training routine

to become successful and it has proven

work better at it and you like it better. And this is where the NAPA Excellence

“Once they have paid their low monthly

comes in… the more you use it, the better

fee, the shop owners and their employees

you will like it!”

have access to all the courses online…

“We believe in the NAPA training courses,

there are over 700 courses to date.”

they’re very good and that’s the reason

The NAPA Excellence was started in 2007

8

Bob White

to be.

we’re continuing to support it. The em-

because NAPA was concerned about

Plus CARSability

the individual success of shop and store

“In addition to the courses, CARSability

ing; they can do it at home. In addition,

owners. So they started the online train-

is available so an owner can identify

we’ve also told other shops how they can

ing centre to ensure the owner’s success

an employee’s training needs; get bet-

gain from this training. It’s ongoing and all

in business. They wanted this training to

ter at hiring; evaluate the employee’s

they have to do is pay the employee for

be part of their business plan so they and

specific skills for possible promotion and

the time spent at it.”

| CarCare Business | September2010 | www.autosphere.ca |

ployees don’t have to travel to get train-

Nathalie Gareau, Director of NAPA Excellence and Jacynthe Pigeon, Advisor, Training and Workforce Development

Troy Goldstone

plaques from courses taken on our wall

“The online training is more vehicle specif-

Tony’s Academy Auto an AUTOPRO in

and each has a minimum of 2 courses on

ic and if we need extra training on a

Winnipeg believes in training as well.

it! Another good thing is that the owner

particular vehicle or engine, this is where

Troy Goldstone says, “They used to go to

can go in and see how his techs are doing.

we get it. If the techs have some ‘extra’ or

the NAPA DC at night and when techs

He can also check what courses they’ve

‘free’ time in their daily schedule, that’s

work a full day’s physical work shift, they

taken and if there’s a specific one he

when they’ll go to the computer for a

don’t want to go out at night for train-

thinks they should have, he‘ll ask them to

training course. This is on ‘paid’ time and a

ing. They’re hands-on people, not class-

take it. We’re definitely for training… it’s a

great incentive for them to do the training

room people. The big advantage for NAPA

good thing for us!”

while they’re here in the shop. If they do

Online Training is that they can do it here

want to stay after work or do the course at

(or at home) on their time. They can watch

Jeff Schultz

the video during lunch then take the test

Jeff Schultz is the owner of Schultz

at home that evening. This training allows

Automotive in Tavistock, Ontario and con-

“I’m quite happy with the training content…

them to do it at their own pace.

siders the NAPA Excellence training to be

it’s relative to what we’re fixing in the bays

a huge help for his technicians. “Firstly, I’m

now… key for us. The courses are a good

“We also have an incentive program for

very lucky to have some great people here

length, they allow you to start and stop

taking this training. If they completed

that understand the importance of regular

where you wish, proceeding at your own

and passed 5 training courses of their

and up-to-date training. NAPA Excellence

pace. The benefits are great!” states Jeff.

choice in a six-week time frame, they were

training gives us a very convenient, flex-

given a cash bonus. This sure motivated

ible addition to the evening class training

Sounds like NAPA Excellence should be

the guys; in fact, one of the techs has 11

we still take part in.

on everyone’s ‘must do’ list

home, that’s fine as well.


9

Frank Tonon is Technical manager of Training at Spectra Premium, where he is responsible for continuous product improvement and technical support for those being developed. He has 30 years of experience in the service and repair industry, 21 of which as an instructor.

Frank Tonon

[email protected]

Formation

Do you have all the solutions ? Whether it is a course, an upgrading session or a new product update workshop, training goes hand in hand with being a technician or a bodyshop owner.

C

ontinuous learning is essential to

techniques like installation procedures,

of, they are also able to assess their know

provide motorists with the best

special features and diagnostic.

ledge and that of their peers.

all service needs are being met, as well

The choice is yours

Put your pride aside

as to successfully manage our business.

For their part, agencies, service busi

To obtain the maximum benefits from

However, not taking advantage of all the

nesses and specialized companies offer

training, it is important to leave pride at

training options being offered to them is

comprehensive course programs given

home and not hesitate in returning to a

often the reason why shop owners have

weekly or monthly, during the day or in

session if some elements were not clear

issues with customer retention.

the evening. These 8 hour long courses

enough. I personally attended the same

– or longer, depending on their level of

presentation three times in a short period

learning or development - go from basic

of time because I wanted to make sure

Because of the wide range of aspects

training to advanced diagnostic tech

that I understood everything while going

needing to be considered, they all deserve

niques. Whatever the format, training is

the extra mile in order to improve my

some serious thoughts. But this is how

indisputably the only way to stay on top of

skills. No one can remember everything

things are done in 2010. There is plenty to

technology changes.

from an 8 or 20 hour training session

possible service and ensure that

Any plans for tonight?

choose from. For example, distributors and wholesalers hold evening sessions on

presented on evenings, after an exhaust

Knowledge and Passion

ing work day.

topics such as brakes, spark plugs, AC/

Nowadays, technicians should know about

systems, fuel injection, to name

the specifics of TPMS, hybrid vehicles,

Getting all the solutions

a few. For the most part,

OBD-II and electronic fuel injection, as

There is a direct link between failing to

these are special

well as maintenance and calibration.

upgrade individually and collectively in

ized sessions

For technicians, there is nothing more

technical training and a decrease in the

on new

exciting than taking part in upgrading

customer base to the point of no-return.

sessions where, as well as the opportunity

Of course, training has a price tag, but it

to learn, they can meet and share with

has to be seen as an investment rather

colleagues. In addition to find

than a cost. Securing the needed custom

ing solutions that, often

er base and keeping you competitive are

times, only expert

the returns on this investment. And since

trainers are

your customers expect you to have all

aware

of the solutions, the best guarantee you can offer them is to have first rate skills. Sharpen your pencil!

10


Pierre Bissonnette was the technical instructor for a major aftermarket manufacturer. He holds a teaching certificate in andragogy – which is the art and science of helping adults, whose general education has been cut short, in their learning process.

Pierre Bissonnette

[email protected]

Education

Does your Client Know? Fall in Canada is beautiful, isn’t it… all those wonderful colours – red, green, yellow, orange – but no white… yet!

N

o, there isn’t any white on the

drive) vehicle needs four tires with the

needs to get to them quickly. Always use

ground … yet… but soon the ‘black

same diameter, and the same axle. In

good quality filters… a less expensive one

top’ will become the ‘white top’, so

addition, periodic rotation should be

has fewer microns and doesn’t filter as

done.

well. And it isn’t just the oil filter, it’s all

it’s time to educate your client as to what to expect in winter driving.

Winter tires

the filters. In addition, don’t forget to check the antifreeze to make sure the vehicle has

You also need to advise your customer

the correct temperature solution for your

First and foremost in most Canadian prov

about the tread wear indicator. Inside the

customer’s driving conditions.

inces, there is snow and ice, so tires need

tread, they’ll see a rubber line. If the tread

to be closely looked at. Not all provinces

is very close, or at that piece of rubber,

Spark plugs

are mandated to have winter tires on

the tread is quite worn. Also tell them that

The spark plug is an important part that

their vehicles, but they’re certainly a great

the rubber compound used in snow/ice

makes the engine run correctly. I once had

idea. Does your customer know what a

tires is quite soft and will wear rapidly if

the experience of installing six different

winter tire is? Well, it’s certainly not an

the tires are being driven on dry, warm

brands of spark plugs in a V-6 engine

‘All Season tire’, it’s not a ‘Summer’ tire…

pavement. They need to be removed for

(following the manufacturer’s recommen

a Winter Tire has a Snowflake symbol on

summer driving or if the client is taking

dation for the type of plug to be used, of

it and it also indicates it’s for snow. Some

the vehicle to a warm climate. When

course), and believe it or not, the engine

tires are marked MS (mud and snow),

mounting the winter tires, be extra careful

started right up and ran beautifully! So,

some are for ice and snow.

about the TPMS, don’t break the sensor. If

use the brand of plug you want, but be

you do, it must be reprogrammed to inter

certain you’re using the right type of plug

act with the other tire sensors.

for that particular engine.

only way to go. If they happen to be

Oil and filters

The high tech engines of today need the

slightly worn, the best ones should be

Oil and filters need to be changed regu

correct heat range and high quality compo

mounted on the rear wheels for better

larly. Remember that today some engines

nents (centre electrode, ground electrode)

stopping action, this is where the traction

only need to use 5W20 grade oil because

that can last for more than 100,000 kilo

should be the best. An AWD (all-wheel

they have overhead camshafts and the oil

metres. Happy winter motoring!

Winter tires should be on all four wheels for a front-wheel drive vehicle… it’s the

12

Tread wear


© 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

www.obd3solutions.com

TSB-20A-9707 Make: Honda Civic Category: Heading & Air Conditioning Year: 2003

Engine: 4-1668 cc 1,7 L SOHC MFI Transmission: Automatic Sub-category: Air Conditioning

DRIVER COMPLAINT A/C is always on

SYMPTOMS

Compressor will not disengage Compressor was replaced

TROUBLE CODE No codes

TECHNICIAN OBSERVATIONS Compressor is always engaged Compressor never cycles

Wiring diagram for A/C Compressor Clutch

TEST CARRIED OUT

Check voltage from AC switch to heater control Head LT GRN/RED wire while cycling switch from OFF to ON. (Voltage change from 0 volts AC switch OFF to above 9 volts AC switch ON)

tests carried out continued

Disconnect wire from multiplex control unit yellow wire E24 at PCM and check if compressor still engaged. (Compressor doesn’t work with yellow wire from multiplex disconnect from PCM) Check voltage with voltmeter at BLU/WHT wire pin F9 of multiplex Control Unit while switching A/C from ON to OFF. (Ground always present with engine running and 3.5 volts engine off) Disconnect A/C control head and check voltage with voltmeter at BLU/WHT wire pin F9 of multiplex control unit. (12 volts present from multiplex control unit with control head disconnect) Replace control head that is shorted to ground

SOLUTION

Replaced the control head

OPERATION STRATEGY

The A/C switch in the dash powers a transistor (which is all part of the control head), the transistor which then grounds the 12v signal from the Multiplex Control Unit. In our case it was this transistor that was shorted to ground all the time. The multiplex was being commanded by the A/C Note: From Multiplex to PCM is a data signal

14


CARS Council

www.cars-council.ca

Planning for Peak Potential Essential Skills like reading, document use and numeracy are crucial in any industry – including automotive. Niagara College’s Motive Power Program is piloting a new CARS Council tool designed to help educators and employers identify the need for Essential Skills upgrade training among automotive industry professionals and new recruits.

“O

ur main goal was to determine

among some new apprentices and more

student skill levels. Once we

experienced workers. Niagara’s Motive

know that, we can develop a

Power Program gets strong support and

plan of action and assist them in reaching

guidance from an industry Program Advisory

their potential by bringing their skills to a

Committee (PAC), made up of local auto

level that meets or exceeds industry stan

motive businesses.

CARS Essential Skills benchmarking results for industry professionals, automotive apprentices and students (2005)

dards.” That is how Julie Stuart, Professor, Academic Upgrading Workforce & Business

Having 95 students from the Motive Power

Development explains Niagara College’s

and Automotive Service Technician Pre-

eagerness to pilot a new Essential Skills

Apprenticeship Program voluntarily parti

assessment tool developed for industry

cipate in this pilot has proven remarkably

professionals.

beneficial for the students, college and employers.

CARS Essential Skills Assessment results Niagara students (2009)

Comparing results between 2009 pilot assessments and industry-wide bench

“The CARS Council Essential Skills

marking in 2005 demonstrates to em

Assessment is a tool the Motive Power

ployers that “that second year students

Program will continue to use and recom

generally perform closer to industry stan

mend,” says Wayne. It clearly indicates

dards. Employers can be confident that

strengths and weaknesses in reading,

necessary skills are being taught and em

document use and numeracy, and con

ployability skills are embedded into the

firmed an identified need for academic

program of study,” says Julie.

upgrading. “We will introduce the CARS Council Essential Skills Assessment tool

Formal skills assessments fit well with Niagara’s Motive Power Program. Program coordinator Wayne Toth says, “Our co-op program sends students out on a fourmonth co-op work placement to gain expe rience and then find employment after the two-year program. We strive to send them out equipped with the basic skills required to succeed in the industry.” Local auto motive employers have told Wayne of their concerns over the lack of Essential Skills

The Essential Skills Assessment pilot pro

when students start the program. That

vided students with:

will give us a tool to offer required assist ance for any basic Essential Skills upgrade.”

• an introduction to the Essential Skills within an

automotive industry context • a realistic assessment of their skill levels in terms

that employers value • an appreciation for using resumes to demonstrating

their ability to meet workplace Essential Skills requirements.

Also “the assessment tool and outcomes are resources that faculty can use to enhance the programs and skills development in all areas.” Julie believes that “the result of this tool can be easily interpreted and

• An Assessment Certificate and Letter of Achievement

from the CARS Council in partnership with Niagara College; for students who meet or exceed industry standards (level 3) in their Essential Skills Assessments.

used when developing a personalized skills development plan,” something that the 62% of industry employers who use no formal staff assessments have yet to discover.


15

Guy O’Bomsawin

[email protected]

An Essential CARS Report

A mechanic must fully believe in ongoing

Training Equals Success Investing in ongoing training drives success at all levels. Not only is it a vital factor for company growth, but also for recruiting and retaining employees.

T

The Challenge Posed by New Technologies training if he wants to keep up-to-speed with the latest in constantly changing automobile technology. Employers can attest to this, since they are mostly in agreement that this is pre cisely their biggest challenge. And this challenge can be met with a variety of solutions:

his is one of the most important con

On-the-Job Training

clusions drawn from the Performance

Employers believe, however, that the best

into account new technologies and new diagnostic procedures.

Driven CARS Report, the third since

method for this is in-house training, with

1999, found under the Skills and Training

out a salary reduction. And they know

section. Here are some of the main themes

how easy this is to do, thanks to the many

explored in this section. At first glance,

online training programs available.

even if special training plans and budgets

• Offering

• Using

cutting-edge training that takes

assessment techniques on a more

frequent basis so as to determine real and necessary training needs.

are relatively rare amongst employers, we

Even as a second choice, this method

see that a majority of employers do offer

is very suitable for the kind of learning

some type of training.

that doesn’t require hands-on, technic

to test their knowledge and help them

al training or for computer work itself,

make good training choices

Priorities and Incentives In fact, two thirds of all employers believe

• Using

the CARSability online service

which sometimes involves accessing on line resources.

that it is crucial for employees to be com

• Employers

also emphasize that their

customer service needs and their desire

petent in problem solving, decision mak

On the other hand, business owners and

for an online system that allows them to

ing, planning and organizing their tasks as

managers must learn new skills too, to

keep track of repairs and book appoint

well as being computer literate.

guarantee that ongoing training plays a

ments should be taken into account as

significant role in their company’s growth

well.

Moreover, they believe that more training is needed in the following 5 hi-tech areas: hybrid electric vehicles, advanced diag

and prosperity.

Appropriate Guides

• Quick

Facts

nostics, advanced braking & body control

Helpful measures: fine-tuning and making

systems, onboard electronics & emission

appropriate training resources more read

time thinking about their employee

controls.

ily available…also templates and guides

training needs.

• 93%

of employers say that they spend

that are easily adaptable. Also, the study noted that 7 out of 10

• 35%

of employees believe that they do

employers are willing to pay for training

These kinds of material will allow employ

courses as well as provide new respon

ers to prepare a personalized training plan

for the job - considerably lower today

sibilities to employees who have taken

for each individual employee and establish

than in 2005, when 75% of employees

such courses, while the rest prefer to give

a training budget, thanks to a costs cal

believed this.

paid holidays instead.

culator.

not possess some of the skills required

• More

than 40% of employers agree that

learning marketing and sales techniques

e Close to 80% of professionals hav Internet access at home or at work

as well as computer skills would improve their bottom line. • 20%

of employees are dissatisfied with

their employer’s human resource and business management skills.

16


• To

be continued in October issue.

Éric Descarries

[email protected]

NASCAR, it’s mechanical!

Not sophisticated? Think twice! In many peoples’ mind, NASCAR race cars are not highly sophisticated pieces of equipment.

G

ranted, compared to a Formula One,

close to Sprint Cup cars. So, many of their

then be completely symmetrical. Race

a NASCAR race car shows a lot less

mechanical components do look alike. But

preparation is done 90% at the race shop.

technology. But yet, NASCAR rules

the Montreal event is a road course race.

Yet, there is still a lot to do at the track

are so tight, racing teams have to develop

Consequently, NASCAR teams have to use

before the race, mostly preparing the cars

competition parts that will not only be

their race cars specifically built for such

(most teams show up with two cars, the

fast, but also reliable.

courses (most NASCAR teams have al

second being a back-up vehicle) first for

most a dozen identical race cars, each one

the NASCAR inspection. And that is ser

Recently, NASCAR had a Nationwide race

designed for a specific type of track). Road

ious business!

in Montreal. Nationwide cars are very

courses are demanding. The cars must

NASCAR Nationwide cars designed for road courses are equipped with very beefy brakes. Still, NASCAR has limited their capacity, forcing the race teams to come up with even better preparation.

The overhead valve 358 cubic inch (5.9 litre) V-8 engines used in NASCAR Nationwide races are based on original production engines. Yet, they are strictly designed for racing. They develop more than 600 horsepower.

NASCAR Nationwide engines must have restriction plates under the carburetor. In Montreal, the holes had to be 1 1/8-inch in diameter

Goodyear is the sole supplier of tires for NASCAR’s most important series. The manufacturer usually posts the tire pressure it recommends for the specific track.

Carburetors are restricted to 390 cfm in the Nationwide series (830 cfm in the Sprint Cup series) and must be inspected by NASCAR officials before the race.

Working on a 3400 lbs race car is not always as easy as it seems.

NASCAR also has lighter classes such as the local Canadian Tire series. The cars weigh only 3000 lbs including driver. But they are allowed to use almost only stock parts such as these brakes, smaller than the Nationwide brakes seen elsewhere on this page.

In the lower Canadian Tire series, the engines are less powerful since they usually come from the manufacturer. Consequently, drivers like Don Thomson Jr. with smaller teams (and budget) can work on their engine!


17

Shirley Brown

[email protected]

Uni-Select Charity Golf Tournament

Great golf, a big cheque for charity and a memorial A golf tournament brings about a lot of camaraderie, relationship building and a lot of good for the community. Uni-Select’s 8th Annual Charity Golf Tournament brought many together, contributed to a charity and remembered someone special.

Uni-Select Ontario Division presented a special Mort Krieger commemorative to Stephen Krieger who represented the entire Barton Auto family. Seen here are Kam Sukhram, Stephen Krieger and Brendan O’Brien.

E

These are the winners of an Auto Service Provider promotion –‘Go for the End Zone’ (l-r) Dean Sinclair, A&S Auto Service; Bruce Dixon, B&B Dixon Automotive; Naji, Hamilton Discount Auto Parts; Ahmad, CRS Automotive; Taylor Holdaway, Holdaway Automotive and Kent Leef, Garage Supply.

More promotion winners—Rick Decher, Blue Streak; Arthur Edwards, Northwest Automotive and Stephen Krieger, Barton Auto Parts.

veryone had a great time at Lionhead

The Canadian Spinal Research Organization

to… they help many local charities in

Golf & Country Club where Uni-Select

was the main charity – and Uni-Select

their area during the year as well like

Ontario held their annual Charity

presented a cheque to the CSRO repre

the Shriners to make sure unfortunate

Golf Tournament. There were over 200 in

sentative for $10,000 at the event. To

children are able to attend the Shrine

attendance for golf and dinner… the lar

date, this brings the total Uni-Select has

Circus. Uni-Select Ontario makes a great

gest turnout ever for this event and even

contributed to CSRO to $176,783. But

effort to give to local charities.

more important… it was for charity.

it’s not the only charity Uni-Select gives In addition, Uni-Select paid a special tribute to one of their recently deceased members – Morton Krieger of Barton Auto Parts. This was the ideal venue to remember Mort Krieger as all his friends and colleagues were in attendance along with his entire family. Mort Krieger was a long time member of Uni-Select and his presence will be sorely missed by all. His son, Stephen Krieger represented the entire Krieger family as Uni-Select Ontario

The entire Krieger family was very proud of the special tribute to Morton Krieger.

18

Brendan O’Brien, Kam Sukhram of Uni-Select present a cheque to CSRO representative, Elaine Burrows.


presented him with a special commemo rative to Mort.

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C O V ER PA G E P ROFILE Shirley Brown

[email protected]


Change and Grow Brampton Discount Auto Parts is very new on the scene… the name that is, not the business – it goes ‘way back. Khaled Abu Dagga and his partner Naji Arafat are the proud new owners of Brampton Discount, but they too, have years of experience under their belt.

“B

rampton Discount Auto Parts

this shop for many years and since they

“The DAVE program is great, too. It helps

is the new name for the old

like our service they’ve stayed with us.

our customers do their own online orde

Albatross Automotive in

We have a lot of happy new customers as

ring … they can see what they’re purchas

Brampton, Ontario. The facility has been

well because of our pricing, our customer

ing… they have access to our inventory

at the same location for about 30 years

service and our knowledge!”

plus whatever help they need. We have quite a few customers that are computer

and well known in the area. It became a Uni-Select corporate store and I purchased

Brampton Discount Auto Parts is the

ized and this makes it so much easier for

it from them,” states Khal. Abu Dagga

third store under Khal’s and Naji’s leader

them to see and order online. DAVE gives

purchased the business last October

ship. They own two stores in Hamilton—

them a lot of good tools to work with,”

changing the name to Brampton Discount

Hamilton Discount Auto Parts—and been

says Khal.

Auto Parts in May 2010.

associated with Uni-Select for over five years. “Uni-Select has helped me a lot

Customers and equipment

“Uni-Select was instrumental in helping

in my business ventures and it’s very

Uni-Select has so much to offer an auto

us purchase this store, and we’ve done a

hard to put into words just how much

parts store and their customers, and if

lot of updating. We’ve updated the entire

they’ve helped. They’ve certainly assisted

that store sells equipment to their custom

computer system, brought prices down,

us grow and prosper; they have a massive

ers, Uni-Select is right there. “We sell equi

added a lot more inventory, too—carry

inventory we can pick parts from; they’re

pment and Uni-Select has a showroom set

ing a wider variety of parts and different

about two minutes away from us here in

up just for equipment at their Brampton

manufacturers. The store and warehouse

Brampton, so it’s quite convenient to pick

warehouse. I’ve brought my customers

cover 20,000 sq. ft.”

up the parts we need when we need them.

there so they can view the equipment and

Being associated with one of the biggest

see how it works. This helps them im

warehouse distributors in North America

mensely in making a decision about what

has helped a lot.”

piece of equipment to purchase. I like tak

Great staff “As we’re a very busy shop, we have 18 em ployees who are very good at what they

ing my customers there—it’s an impres

do. They’re very hardworking, knowledge

Beneficial membership

able and have years of experience; most

“Becoming a Uni-Select member opened

showroom to help my customers make the

were employed by Albatross Automotive.

up doors to manufacturers and main sup

right choices.

sive facility. I will continue to use the

pliers we didn’t have access to before, and “Our store is successful because we help

so we now have a lot more products to

“Uni-Select is a great network to be with…

our customers to the best of our ability;

choose from.

they listen to you. Their programs are

20

customers. We have excellent customer

“In addition, we have quite a few customers

Being a Uni-Select member enables me to

service… we go that extra mile to help our

on the SAX program. From our perspec

offer the best prices on the best products.

customers with their problems and the

tive, it helps us better help the customer

There are many other benefits, too… the

parts they need. We do whatever it takes

with labour warranties and warranties over

monthly rebates and the annual rebates

to satisfy them, to help them and, in turn,

all. The customer enjoys loyalty rebates

are very beneficial to our customers as

they appreciate our service. Many of our

and ease with warranty issues. This in turn

well as ourselves. If I have a problem,

customers today have been dealing with

helps keep our customers loyal to us.

I just pick up the phone – their customer


PHOTOS: JACK KAZMIERSKI

great for our stores and our customers.

the staff knows what to do and knows the

Khal also helps out on the counter.

Brampton Discount Auto Parts staff Simon Piccolo, Kirke Simmonds; Corinne Hopkins, Allan Artates, Khalad Abu Dagga and Tony Dunne.

service is amazing! If we run into any

Change to succeed

customers in a lot of different aspects of

problems at all, they take care of it in

Khal tells us that from his perspective

the business. We help our customers grow

literally no time. The customer service

in business, there have been many good

wherever we can… we have the products

crew in Brampton is the best.

changes over the years… one of them

they need on hand; we service them quickly

being computers. They keep the staff

and competently; we have the pricing; our

“One of our best selling lines is Beck/

more up-to-date on parts and service;

inventory is large; the rebate programs

Arnley. They manufacture a full range of

it’s easier to move parts about; it’s much

definitely help them. To stock the correct

filters, gaskets, chassis and ignition parts,

easier to help customers find the correct

inventory, we use the Uni-Select e-Model

specializing in import vehicles. The quality

part and let them see it before ordering;

ing program… it shows us the makes,

is great and the price point effective. I’m

it’s faster and more efficient to do busi

models and number of vehicles within our

very happy with the Beck/Arnley line and

ness now… in fact, Khal says that with the

area.” Khaled Abu Dagga most certainly

I hope Uni-Select continues to stock the

internet and computers, he believes just

believes you must change in order to grow

full line of products. In addition, being a

about anything is possible.

and succeed in your business. New tech nology is always going to be important

part of the Uni-Select network gives us the ability to work with national accounts

“In the matter of training, our customers

and he feels that those in business in the

and all three of my stores have benefited

take part in the clinics from the Uni-Select

aftermarket must change along with this

from this.”

manufacturers and we also train our

technology in order to succeed.


21

Guy O’Bomsawin

[email protected]

From the Atlantic to the Richelieu

NAPA Rally 5000 – 8 Days of Events This year, the organizers of the second edition of the NAPA Rally 5000 really tightened the screws on their autocross challenges. Each of the 10 contestants had something to prove on this 3,000 km, Halifax-to-Richelieu obstacle course. Here’s a rundown on the main events – some quite outlandish.

J

uly 3-4 – Dartmouth – Wreck’n’Roll

July 8-9 – Bathurst – Night Vision –

through a 2km, lunar surface bumpy, off-

– Each team had to fix 13 problems

Contestants were given a surprise wake-

course ‘road’, and then repair their car’s

up call at 3 a.m. to reinstall headlights

rear suspension at the McMasterville

and tail lights on their cars… in the

NAPA store.

on their car, with $1,000-worth of NAPA

parts.

dark. July 6 – New Glasgow – Reinventing

Arriving at the Rally finish line at the NAPA

the Wheel – Contestants had to build

July 10 – Montmagny – Silence is Golden

Chambly Richelieu store, contestants were

and install a wheel made from a variety

– At 30 km/h, the contestant’s car decibel

greeted by several cheer-leading NAPA

of materials and take it for a spin on the

levels were tested by a NAPA sonic expert,

members, including Alain Brunelle, Éric

obstacle course (blocks, ramps, etc.).

and then re-tested after the contestants

Charland, Yves Pelletier, and by one very

had 45 minutes to work on reducing the

excited crowd.

noise. The big winners of the 2010 NAPA 5000

Treasure – Using a metal detector, con testants had to uncover a treasure chest

July 11 – Drummondville – Pizza Part

containing a lost part to install on their car.

Delivery – Contestants had to pre-diag

Martin Tousignant of the Sainte-Gravelle

nose a problem described by a female

team, from La Malbaie.

July 8 – Miramichi - Shuttlerun – Contes

customer, and then go to her home to fix

tants had to push their car past 3 different

it with 3 of the 10 parts found there.

Rally were twin brothers, Nicolas and

For more information about the event, visit www.autosphere.ca Mechanics –

markers, returning each time to the start line, to find the parts they needed to be

July 12 – McMasterville – Going to

Pictorials and Advertorials and www.

able to start it up again.

Pothole Hell – Contestants had to navigate

rallyenapa5000.ca.

2010 Itinerary Dartmouth New Minas Truro New Glasgow Charlottetown Summerside 22

Shediac Moncton Bouctouche Miramichi Bathurst Campbellton


Edmundston Rivière-du-Loup Montmagny Quebec City Plessisville

Victoriaville Drummondville McMasterville Chambly-Richelieu

Photos : Guy O’Bomsawin AND NAPA

July 7 – Parlee Beach, Shediac – Buried

GO THROUGH SLEET, ICE AND SNOW WITH BLIZZAK

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DM-Z3

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[email protected] www.tiredistribution.com

WS-70

Éric Descarries

[email protected]

Are you ready?

It’s winter time, once again. Whether you like it or not, wherever you live in this country, winter will be back in a short while.

U

nless you spend the cold season in

Tire has specific light truck sizes in its

the South, you will surely have to

Altimax Arctic line of winter tires and

drive in the snow, on the ice, in the

Nokian already has its Hakka LT in its

rain or on very cold pavement for the few next months. Consequently, you know

catalogue.

by now that winter tires are your best

Lots of new products

option to keep control of your vehicle.

Obviously, most tire manufacturers have

users will go for the Blizzak DM-V1.By the

Unless you live and work in Quebec where

some new products to introduce in fall.

way, Firestone’s Winterforce brand is also

winter tires are manda

Some tires are very affordable while many

part of the famous Bridgestone family

tory, it will be up

others are highly developed products

of products. Uniroyal, part of the same

to you to choose a

designed for specific vehicles. Actually,

family as BF Goodrich (they both belong

good winter tire or

many car manufacturers are now mount

to Michelin) is also coming out with a new

not. Still, do we

ing performance tires on their cars and

revised version of its winter tire, the Tiger

have to remind

light trucks. Consequently, before choos

Paw Ice & Snow II that remains studdable.

you that at seven

ing a bargain-priced winter tire, make sure

German manufacturer Continental, now

degrees Celsius,

you are buying the right one for your vehi

offers its ExtremeWinterContact even for

Michelin also has winter tires for light trucks such as its LTX Winter

an all-season tire

cle. If your knowledge of tires is limited, it

light trucks as mentioned before and a new

begins losing some

would be better to have an expert have a

winter tire for 16- and 17-inch wheels, the

of its best charac‑

look at your original tires. Nonetheless, if

teristics. So here

your vehicle came from the plant with H,

ContiWinterContact TS830P. American manufacturer Cooper has three new very

a re s o m e o f t h i s

V, Z, W or Y rated tires, make sure you are

affordable tires on the market, the stud

coming season’s best

installing winter tires with at least H or Z

dable Weather-Master S/T, the unidirec

choices.

codes.

tional Weather-Master WSC for SUVs (and it is studdable) and a Discoverer M+S for

New tires for light trucks

As far as exciting products are concerned,

light trucks, crossovers and SUVs in many

First of all, let’s mention that many tire

be on the lookout for affordable products

more sizes.

manufacturers are now offering many

such as the new Winter Slalom KSI by

more winter tires and sizes for bigger

BFGoodrich or the now legendary Blizzak

pick-up trucks such as the Ford F-250,

available in the WS-70 format. Light truck

Looking for a European brand? How about the new Graspic DS-3 by Dunlop available

Chevrolet Silverado and GMC Sierra

in 35 sizes for 13- to 18-inch wheels?

2500 and Ram Heavy Duty 2500.

Newcomer (in the winter tire segment)

Among them, there is Continental with its ExtremeWinterContact launched last

24

Bridgestone’s Blizzak WS-70 is the latest in a long line of legendary winter tires by the Japanese manufacturer.

Toyo’s Observe G-02 needs no introduction

Falken is launching its HS439 available in some 40 sizes for 13- to 19-inch wheels

year, Michelin with its all-new LTX Winter

and its Wildpeak A/T for small trucks and

and Toyo with its Open Country WLT-1,

SUVs. Though it has an American name,

all products designed for LT (Light Truck)

the General Tire Altimax Arctic is also

applications. Goodyear has the Ultra

from European origins and this well-known

Grip WRT for such vehicles while General

tire is now available in 50 sizes including


GY_RP_Tensioning_1-3page_CarCare.pdf

1

ENGINEERED FOR Yokohama is now offering a very modern performance winter tire, the W.drive.

the beginning of this text should not be forgotten. Still within the European lineup, winter tire specialist Nokian should be introducing its all new Hakkapeliitta 7

some for light trucks as mentioned before.

to the Canadian market, but its regular

The Goodyear Ultra Grip Ice WRT was

Hakkapeliitta 5 will remain one of its most

discussed earlier, but let’s not forget that

popular products. Italian Pirelli launches a

Korean tire manufacturer Hankook has a

totally new winter tire this year, the Winter

nice line-up of very efficient winter tires

IceControl available in 28 sizes for 14- to

including its popular Icebear W300,

17-inch wheels. Dutch Vredestein (now a

Winter i*Pike and the newer i*Pike Rw 11

member of the Apollo Tyre family of prod

for SUVs and light trucks available in 37

ucts) is now offering the newer Arctrac for

sizes including LT Metric with C and E load

13- to 17-inch wheels. There is also a light

indexes. Kumho is also Korean and, it too,

truck version of the same tire called the

has great winter tires under the I’ZEN

Arctrac SUV.

KW25, I’ZEN KW27 and I’ZEN WIS KW19 monikers. As far as Japanese tire makers are concerned, look at Toyo with its

C

well-known Observe products and mostly

M

its all new Open Country WLT1 truck tire,

Y

and at Yokohama that is bringing back its

CM

great IG20, Geolandar I/T G072 and

MY

W.drive winter products.

CY

THE IMPORT AND DOMESTIC MARKETS

JPN JAPAN

F FRANCE

I IITALY TALY

ROK

S SWEDEN

GB GREAT BRITAIN

D GERMANY

SOUTH KOREA

CMY

Back to the European tire makers begin

K

ning with Italian Marangoni specialized in small car products with its 4-ICE and

Continental’s great is also available for light duty pick-up trucks.

the Meteo Grip E+ (the E+ meaning it is environmentally friendly) and continuing with the legendary Michelin brand that should need no presentation. Other than

Newcomers

its new X-Ice Xi2, it also introduces new

Obviously, there are always newcomers to

sizes for the light truck Latitude X-Ice Xi2.

the market. This time, most of them come

Obviously the LTX Winter mentioned at

from China or other parts of Asia. Such is the case for Infinity from Dubai with its INF-049 made… in China! Nankang is from Taiwan and it offers the Canadian market the SV-1 and SW-5 winter tires. Add to that the S-600 available at a

Get power and performance with the Gatorback® Belt Tensioning System. We’ve increased our import and domestic coverage. You can be sure the Gatorback® Belt Tensioning System will install to OE form, fit and function. For more information 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.

reasonable price. South Korean Nexen (also called Roadstone) is now part of the Canadian winter tire market with its line-up of Winguard Sport, Euro win and Winguard SUV tires, while Chinese Westlake that has been here for a little while is back with its twin brand Goodride with the SW601 and SW602 products. Italian tire manufacturer Pirelli is introducing this new Ice Control to our market

Isn’t that enough for you?


25

10

François Charron

[email protected]

Spark Plugs

Is Maintenance still necessary?

W

hen was the last time you removed

or hot…The engine must be at room

the spark plugs from a customer’s

temperature… Removing the spark plugs

car for a visual inspection? I can

from a warm/hot engine increases the

hear you say ‘Hey relax…we’re in 2010

chance the threads could be damaged…’’

already!’ It scares me just to imagine remov

Something to think about, right?

ing platinum or iridium spark plugs that were installed about 150,000 km ago –

Good practices

perhaps 3-4 years ago... I would be in a cold

The next step is to make sure that no dirt

sweat worrying about whether I might strip

or foreign material enters the combustion

the threads or break the plug in place.

chamber while removing the plugs. Use

Sometimes, returning to basics is wise to

a high air pressure gun and aim it at the

avoid ‘sticky situations’.

spark plug hole to remove any contamin

PHOTO : Courtesy of David Liberman, flickr

Over the past few decades, spark plugs have evolved at the same pace as the rest of an engine’s components. Nowadays, we tend to think that they’re maintenance-free, which is not exactly the case.

Reading spark plugs is still a good practice nowadays

ant. If the plugs are seized because of a

available online or through your local sup

lack of maintenance, you’ll feel it on the

plier. You might want to use this opportunity

That’s why you should recommend to your

ratchet… you might be in for a challenge.

to make a compression test. Cleaning the

customer that a visual inspection is in

Again, in such cases, Ford recommends

threads, the insulator and re-gapping the

order at about the half way mark of life

that you back out the spark plugs 1/8 to

plugs is possible in some instances – be sure

expectancy. But wait! Should the engine

1/4 of a turn and fill the spark plug well

to refer to the manufacturer’s specifications.

be warm, hot or cold before performing

just above where the jamb hex nut sits

spark plug maintenance or replacement?

with a carburetor tune-up cleaner.

Spark plug removal

Hmmm… I wouldn’t take a chance with

Installation and torque The torque applied to spark plugs depends

these newer aluminum cylinder heads.

Spark plug inspection

Let’s check Ford’s recommendations when

Once removed, it’s a wise practice to look

seat. Spark plugs with gasket style seats

it comes to most of their engines: ‘’…Do

at the condition and colour of each spark

require more torque than those with tapered

not remove plugs when the engine is warm

plug and compare it with a chart, readily

seats. The best thing to do is to follow the

on their thread size and the type of plug

PHOTO: Courtesy of e Abtsal Guardian

vehicle manufacturer torque recommenda tions. As a general rule, 14 mm plugs with a gasket seat should be tightened to 26 to 30 ft-lb (35-40 N-m ) in cast iron heads, but only to 18 to 22 ft-lb (24-30 N-m) in alum inum heads. Likewise, 18 mm plugs with gasket seats should be tightened to 32 to 38 ft-lb (43-51 N-m) in cast iron heads, but only 28 to 34 ft-lb (38-46 N-m) in alum inum heads. For tapered seat spark plugs, 14 mm plugs should be tightened to 7 to 15 ft-lb (10-20 N-m) in both cast iron and aluminum, while 18 mm tapered seat plugs should be tightened to 15 to 20 ft-lb (20Spark plugs are not always easy to access

26


27 N-m) in both types of cylinder heads.

François Charron

[email protected]

Filters

Reminders Evolving car technologies are fascinating subjects. Who would have thought we’d witness such achievements and marvels: computers, safety devices, hands-free virtual communications, just to name a few. Whether yesterday, today or tomorrow, one thing’s sure: there’ll always be filtering systems. Oil Filter An oil filter’s job is to retain solid contam inants like carbon, metal particles and dirt from the engine oil to prevent premature wear to internal components such as the valve train, camshaft and crankshaft bear ings, journals and cylinder walls. This type of filtration is called ‘full-flow’, an efficient PHOTO : Courtesy of Autodeadline

way of removing contaminants, ensuring that only filtered oil is supplied to the en gine. If they get plugged for some reason, oil filters have a built-in bypass valve that will divert the flow of oil back to the oil galleries, although without being filtered. Under very cold weather conditions, the bypass valve will sometimes open when the engine is first started. Replacing filters is part of a car’s regular maintenance program.

Choosing the right filter First, try to use a long core filter, some

plugged, the air filter has a direct impact

the tiniest piece of dirt plugs the injector

times called a ‘long life’ filter, because of

on fuel economy. For most types, the old

nozzle, engine misfiring will occur and

its larger filtering surface. Although they

‘bright light’ testing method is still good.

performance will drop, increasing overall

look alike externally, oil filters are not all

If you can’t see the light reflected, replace

fuel consumption. The fuel filter may be

the same internally. For instance, filters

the filter. In some cases, it can be cleaned

located under the vehicle or on the fire

made of cellulose can retain particles

with an air gun at low pressure (less than

wall, but can also be found on top of the

down to about 25 to 35 microns in size. To

30 psi) which is enough to remove any

fuel tank (EFI systems) or inside the car

trap the smaller 10 to 20 microns par

dirt and contaminants trapped inside.

buretor on older models. Like the air filter,

ticles, filters are made of synthetic fibre,

Replacing the filter may vary according to

replacement at 50,000 km is the normal

usually a mix of synthetic glass and cellu

driving conditions but every 50,000 km

practice.

lose. To find the right filter for a particular

is the standard for city driving. As always,

engine, consult your filter supplier’s appli

the manufacturer’s recommendation is

Cabin Filter

cation catalogue. Most car manufacturers

your best reference.

Featured more and more often since the

recommend that you change both the engine oil and the filter at the same time.

start of this decade, the cabin filter iso

Fuel Filter

lates the passenger compartment from

Since today’s cars run at higher fuel pres

unpleasant odours that may pass through

sure, any restriction along the fuel line

the ventilating system. Normally located

Most air filters on the market are made

might cause engine surge, registering a

behind the glove box, it’s a good idea to

of specially treated paper that can trap

fault code in the ECM memory and caus

check the cabin filter whenever you replace

particles down to 5 to 6 microns in size. If

ing the Check Engine light to come on. If just

the air filter.

Air Filter


27

Dave Redinger is a mechanic with over 45 years experience. He owns and operates his own shop in the Toronto area. Dave hosts “Dave’s Corner Garage” seen on national television—Sun TV on Sunday mornings. Dave’s Corner Garage deals with automotive issues.

Dave Redinger

[email protected]

Garage Business

tools or give up some of our business to the dealer organization. Just a thought –

Are you Insane!

what an opportunity for jobbers! Get together and start a lending library for this type of equipment. What a great way

Our industry is going through tough times and we need to address the issues now - before it’s too late.

to create customer loyalty!

Real estate My shop is located in Toronto. We have

W

been in this location for over ten years.

e, as an industry, are in trouble

Can you afford to specialize

and we’re afraid to talk about it.

I can’t see many shops buying into this

close to thirty years. I’m getting older. The

A bold statement, I know, but I

type of purchase unless they are special

value of real estate in this area is insane.

have been in this trade for close to 50 years

izing in one brand. The reality is we can’t

They’re building condos right across the

and the trends I see developing around

afford to specialize in one brand. Many

street. Get the picture?

me are, to say the least, scary stuff.

of our customers have several vehicles

The company has been in business for

My frustration can be summed up in a single question: why should I stay in busi ness? It’s tough to justify the hassle when your shop is more valuable as real estate than as a business. And it’s not just me! This is true all over the city. Shops are being gobbled up and the real estate is being re-zoned. The truth is big cities don’t like us. We’re dirty, noisy and no one loves us except our immediate family... and sometimes even Photo: ©iStockphoto.com/manley099

that’s questionable. Besides, you get more taxes from condos than from garages. Face it; there are fewer shops available, which in turn drives up the cost of rent. We own our building mortgage free and

“Jobbers should get together and start a lending library for this type of equipment.” – Dave Redinger

clear and our hard costs are still close to $4,000 a month. In fact, the hard costs of running a shop are so extreme in Toronto that under the current property tax struc ture, I get to buy my building back every 15 years.

For starters, we lack the technology to

in their households and I’m certainly not

repair today’s cars. Yes, we won the “right

going to send my customer somewhere

I believe you would have to be nuts to open

to repair,” however, what did we actually

else to fix his or her second car.

a repair facility today. The cost of equip ment, real estate, environmental issues,

win? I’m sorry AIA, it was a hollow vic

28

tory. First off, what did we win? Basically

Bottom line: we are trapped in a scenario

insurance issues, employees… I could go

we won the right to purchase the repair

where we want to be a one-stop centre

on and on. In fact I will in the next issue.

specs and programs from the manufactur

servicing all makes and models, but that’s

ers. Great! We also have to invest in the

getting tougher and tougher to accom

By the way, I’ve already bought my condo

test equipment to use this information.

plish. We have to gain access to these

in Florida.


ONLINE

TECHPRO ONLINE IS MORE THAN JUST TECHNICAL TRAINING: IT’S A BUSINESS STRESS RELIEVER! Designed by the Uni-Select Training Team specifically for automotive aftermarket professionals, TechPro Online is a new and unique package offering 24/7 online access to an amazing selection of courses and resources for you and your staff. So if the realities of today’s fast paced, technology advanced automotive needs are catching up with you, we’ve got just the solution to help you get ahead of the game! The ASE certification exams schedule has been published. Are you ready? TechPro Online can help you prepare for your test! Get started with the ASE Fast Pass Test Prep Challenge. It’s got everything you’ll want to know before taking the test. Running out of words or pictures to convince your customers? TechPro Online has got it all figured out! The Auto IQ portion is an easy and effective tool to explain to them, in a non-technical way, the why’s and how’s of a technical problem or automotive system. Do you sometimes interview promising technicians who claim they know it all but the only way to confirm this would be to get them onboard? TechPro Online can allow you to test their knowledge before you hire them through the Online Assessment tool. So don’t be fooled by lofty proposals; instead, get them to put their money where their mouth is! Need to broaden your “tech tips” resources? TechPro Online can help by giving you access to more than 5000 quick fix solutions, all at your fingertips! TechPro Online can offer you all this and more at your own pace, on your own schedule, from anywhere you choose. It’s an investment in your shop that will inevitably increase your efficiency and accuracy of diagnostics, which translates in increased profitability!

TechPro Online is ready when you are. To request an online demonstration or get more information on this unique program, please contact Lyssa Yanakis at the TechPro Training center: Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected] Tel: 1 (800) 363-9876, extension 6 Fax: (450) 641-2683 | www.autosphere.ca | September 2010 | CarCare Business |

29

Alain Faleix, trained as an engineer, started his career in France specializing in lubricants. In 2008, he joined Teklub Distribution as an internal combustion engine specialist and is now breathing new life into the Gulf Canada brand.

Alain Faleix

[email protected]

Engine Lubrication

Synthetic Oils – The Lubes of Tomorrow In our environmentally-aware era, plagued by the scarcity of fossil fuels, thermal engines remain a somewhat reasonable mid-term option. Even so, they are still constantly evolving to conform to consumers’ desire for a less polluting and less energy-consuming car.

M

anufacturers invest a lot of money

impedes the catalytic converter, which, in

Where to Get More Information?

in research and development to

turn, produces more pollution.

To help technicians and consumers when it

build engines that appeal to moto

comes to available choices, the lubricant

rists and are economical yet still conform

Synthetic oils are becoming more wide

industry follows international guides, such

to fuel emission norms. Every car repair

spread. They resist high temperatures and

as those from the API (American Petroleum

specialist has seen the great surge in

rapid temperature changes, too. Their low-

Institute) and the ACEA (European Auto

technological developments over the past

temperature flow makes ignition easier

mobile Manufacturer Association). API

few years. Needless to say, they all know

and helps circulation within the engine.

standards are usually used by American

that a 2010 engine has nothing in common

Moreover, their anti-wear properties help

and Asian manufacturers, while European

with one from 1990. Today, engines have

lower phosphorus, sulphur and ash levels

manufacturers follow ACEA standards, as

less cylinders, are more compact, heavily

as well. These oils are specifically adapted

well as much more demanding, in-house

strained, and often supercharged, run faster

to the motor’s own requirements. They are

‘manufacturing’ standards.

and, increasingly, provide more power and

compatible with the catalytic converter and

performance. Many components have

particulate filters, and endure extended

Diagnostic tool information or car user

been added: catalytic converters, EGRs

intervals between oil changes. European

manuals are reliable sources and handy

(Exhaust Gas Recirculation) systems, DPFs

manufacturers have been using synthetic

to find out which oil is most suitable. Your

(Diesel Particulate Filters) and SCR (Selec

oils for 20 years, and many other manu

lube supplier can also answer any ques

tive Catalytic Reduction) systems, just to

facturers are keeping up with this trend

tions you might have.

name a few…

with their 2011 models.

Oils

Check, and Be Sure! During an oil change, it is absolutely cru cial to choose a lubricant approved by the

New kinds of oils are regularly developed

vehicle’s manufacturer, making sure that

to cope with all the latest technology.

using it will not void the warranty.

Engine oil temperatures have risen from 100°C (212°F) to 120°C (248°F) and, even to

Ask your lube supplier to give

150°C (302°C). Moreover, oil

you a list of approved lubri

must be now be changed every

cants and check for yourself that

15,000 to 30,000 kilometres, de

the products you use are API-

pending on the manufacturer. The

certified (http://eolcs.api.org/).

old saying that “oil is oil” is no longer

What’s Next for Your Shop?

true. For modern European models, using an ordinary, mineral-based oil

Competing against quick change cen

that is not exactly the right fit for the

tres (QuickLube) on their own turf will

engine brings about premature wear and,

probably not be all that fruitful, but your

certainly, added noise as well, even if the

repair specialist know-how and valuable

oil is changed every 5,000 kilometres. This kind of oil cannot protect the motor and

30

Gulf Formula ULE 5W-40 with manufacturer-approval markings.


customer service are great ways to make a difference with your own clientele.

50

ES

$

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Guy O’Bomsawin

[email protected]

Frankfurt Automotive Trade Fair

2010 Winners In Frankfurt, 147 companies from 16 countries were in the running for the Automechanika Innovation 2010 competition. Although mostly German, there were plenty of French, Italian, Dutch, Austrian and Danish competitors as well.

L

isted here by category, these winning products received Automechanika awards on September 14, during the opening of this major European megashow which ran until

the 19th.

Accessories Pewag Snow Pro snow chains – perfectly quiet with a fullyautomatic tensioning system. No eyelets, no hooks, no ma nual tensioning.

OE Products & Service P2 Parallel Strong Hybrid System – Using this new sys tem, the world’s first manu facturer, Bosch, turns existing a u to m o b i l e m o d e l s i n to hybrids as in the case of the VW Touareg and Porsche Cayenne.

32 | CarCare Business | September 2010 | www.autosphere.ca | Ad_1233_CarCareBiz.indd 1

6/1/10 2:24 PM

Repairs/Diagnostics Tools OBD Matrix, from Texa : the world’s first device that monitors all of a vehicle’s electronic sys tems while it is running and without bothering the driver.

Systems Steelmate all-in-one™ safety GPS - a portable vehicle satellite navigation device with TPMS, parking sensor, reversing camera and multimedia features …like the name says – all in one. Service Station & Car Wash Granulate and Salt Spreader from Tuning OSRAM Ultra Life headlamps - the ideal solution for

Birchmeier Sprühtechnik - a com

anyone who spends a lot of time driving, has dipped lights on

pletely new hand spreader for dis

during daytime, often travels at night or has vehicles that make

tributing granulate over areas up to

lamp replacements difficult. Guaranteed for 3 years

2 metres wide. Filling, carrying, dos ing and spreading have been made very easy with excellent results. automechanika.com

Parts IQ Power Batteries from ECO Car Battery - featuring a new kind of automatic electrolyte mixing system that results in lower CO2 emissions and prevents acid stratification, the biggest power killer in car batteries, all while offering a longer service life.


33

New Technology

Lesley Wimbush [email protected]

D-Drive Infinitely Variable Transmission Steve Durnin’s Infinitely Variable Transmission concept may change the way the world shifts gears

I

magine a transmission that’s always

not working as hard – thus a higher gear

in the right gear, achieving maximum

is more fuel efficient. Moving between set

efficiency from the engine’s output –

gears is less than efficient, since power is

but without any friction drive components:

lost during the transitions, not to mention

no clutch, no torque converter, no belts or

wear and tear on clutches and bands.

bands.

Sound impossible?

Continuously variable transmissions are a somewhat better compromise since

An Australian inventor has done exactly

there’s a huge range of gear ratios and the

that.

gearbox adjusts itself according to speed. Although fuel efficient, CVTs still contain

The D-Drive Infinitely Variable Transmission

friction drive parts like belts and rollers

is the brainchild of Steve Durnin, a plumb

which are unable to withstand huge

ing inspector from Queensland, Australia.

amounts of power or torque.

Durnin has spent over 20 years experi

Infinitely variable ratios are achieved through the arrangement of the gears, without the belt slippage and friction damage of traditional gearboxes.

kinetic energy recovery (such as using the stored energy from one spinning shaft to

menting to bring his idea to fruition, and

Simply complex

the successful completion of his working

The D-Drive (D for Durnin) has no clutch

luable to the growing hybrid vehicle indus

model should bring a full-scale prototype

– the power is transmitted from input to

try with the added benefit of reducing fuel

one step closer to reality.

output by gears.

consumption and emissions as a result of

Traditional compromises

Through a bewildering, yet ingenious set-

Traditional gearboxes work in partnership

up of doubled planetary gear sets stacked

With only bearings and gears to service,

with the motor to match engine speed

in a row behind an eccentric orbital set

the D-drive should be ultra-reliable and

to power output with the best possible

which controls the speed of its three axles,

easy to service. It lends itself to com

efficiency. Acceleration and low-speed

Durnin has created a gearbox that can

plex computer tuning, or small simple

driving require a low gear to match up

transition from neutral to top gear and back

applications.

with the engine’s high revs and power

in a smooth motion without disengaging

output, whereas in highway driving with

gears. The power is applied directly to the

Durnin’s prototype has fantastic potential,

its momentum advantage, the engine’s

individual gears, according to speed con

not only for the automotive industry and

dition or driver selection.

particularly hybrids, but for marine and

power the other). This could make it inva

its efficiency.

rail, heavy industrial, wind energy, robot The inner and outer ring gears, inner sun

ics or any application that requires vari

gears and rotating shafts can either be

able speed and the ability to handle huge

locked or turning in a variety of combina

amounts of power and torque.

tions that result in a nearly endless choice

The D-drive infinitely variable transmission lends itself to complex or simple applications and without fixed gear ratios.

34

of speed ratios.

The possibilities are … infinite.

Endless Possibilities

For more on the D-Drive infinitely vari

Durnin’s model uses electric motors and

able transmission, including video of the

unleashes all sorts of possibilities for tech

working model: http://infinitelyvariable-

nologies like regenerative braking, and

transmission.com.au/


Quality is Best

Pierre Lalonde

Value added services... priceless

www.affiniagroup.com

Every time I read or scroll through an automotive magazine, I can’t help but be amazed when I see all these new unknown names manufacturing brake pads and rotors. They all have that special catchy line; “better than OE, superior quality, high technology, guaranteed no noise, long lasting,” blah, blah, blah.

A

m I impressed? Well…not really. I don’t think I’m a gullible person!! Like most people, I rely on quality products and proven track record with almost all my purchases. Funny enough, I almost never go wrong when I use my instincts this way. Hey… you have to give them credit for their advertising skills, if nothing else! Maybe some people even believe those ads, but how many of those products have been tried and proven to be as they des cribe them to be!

Where’s the service? The whole idea when manufacturing quality brake products is safety, quality and reliability. ‘Long lasting’, ‘No Noise’, ‘Better than OE’, ‘Meets Safety Requirements’ are all big words. Where is the back-up information for these claims? Usually, those ques tions aren’t asked until after the sale!

don’t forget that quality brake part companies have been around for about one hundred years and have evolved in the making of a superior product. They have qualified people, research and de velopment, and the high technology to make a successful product. What I see and read in the ads confuses me, but then again as I stated before, my instinct is never wrong. My trust is with the 100 year old company, and I’m going to stick with it! How about you? Your customer will appreciate the fact that you installed quality, safe and reliable brake parts. Give your customer the security and feeling of a firm brake pedal when the vehicle comes to a stop. A spongy brake pedal is not acceptable and unknown brands could cause this issue. Be like me, trust your instinct for tried and true! Quality wins every time and brings the customer back… maybe even new ones!

And one other thing that caught my eye in the ads: there are no toll free numbers for technical assistance! It’s a nightmare for the counterperson not to be able to connect to a tech line, not to have proper catalogue information, and not to have access to local field support—all the fundamentals that come built-in with a quality product. With these elements missing, there’s definitely a potential for “this is the last time I’m buying from you” happening!

Value added services Granted, quality brake parts are not cheap, but what comes along, or more importantly, what doesn’t come along with the price, is where a few fail to notice what’s missing. The added ser vices we’re talking about are professional representation and technical advice. With quality parts, precise cataloguing information, interchan ges, new product additions and technical bulletins are all vital elements required by the distributor, and more importantly, the Service Provider, in order to insure that feature we call SAFETY!

Invaluable support Product availability, consistent turn around time, superior cus tomer service and a meaningful warranty policy are attributes that only a quality product can provide for its clients. Rebates and special programs with incentives are interesting, but should not be sold in lieu of safety and reliability. Proven and tested brake parts for all platforms, before market ing, are all part of the attributes of a well-known product. And | www.autosphere.ca | September 2010 | CarCare Business |

35

New Products Rislone® pelletized radiator

New Airtex® Engine Management Catalogue This engine management application catalogue and illustrated parts guide cov ers thousands of additional late-model applications and is now available through Airtex® Engine Management brand. The 2010 Airtex Engine Management Catalogue has over 3,000 new parts cov ering popular foreign-nameplate and domest ic applications. The Illustrated Parts Guide features thousands of de tailed product images/diagrams to help quickly find the right engine management component. For a copy of the new catalogue/illustrat ed guide, contact your United Components sales representative or go to: www.airtexenginemanagement.com

All-in-One Scratch Repair Kit To repair vehicle scrat ches, try PlastiKote’s allin-one scratch repair kit. This kit features new, improved, specially for mulated automotive paint, primer and clear coat. The Kit includes eve rything required for a perfect finish: sanding tool; two-in-one paint applicator; speciallyformulated primers and clear coat, plus polish ing tool for an OEM shine and professional finish. For more informat ion on the new PlastiKote products, visit www.PlastiKote. com or call 866-222-8714. Please visit the Valspar/PlastiKote booth (#4221) at the AAPEX Show, Nov. 2-4 at the Sands Expo Center in Las Vegas.

36


New Rislone Pelletized Radiator Stop Leak uses a proven formula. It features patented Rhizex pellets that dissolve in minutes to solve most common cooling sys tem problems, including in ternal, external and coolantto-oil leaks in radiators, freeze plugs, gaskets, heads, blocks and heater cores. It’s spe cially formulated to seal lar ger leaks better. It also con ditions the cooling system, inhibiting rust and corrosion, lubricating water pump seals and helping to control elec trolysis, all of which reduce the risk of failure. For more information about Rislone Pelletized Radiator Stop Leak, visit Rislone’s Web site: www.rislone.ca

TRICO ViewTM – Professional Grade Glass Treatment Unlike silicone sprays and other glass coating products, the Trico View glass treatment formula forms a chemical bond with glass. The glass treatment formula can be applied to any exterior glass sur face – front/rear windshield, side windows and mirrors for improved visability. One applicator will treat one windshield (front or rear) or two side windows, plus the treatment remarkably improves visi bility in the rain; it’s good for all-seasons, repels rain, snow and sleet; makes rain bead up and roll right off; makes it easier to remove ice, snow, bugs, dirt, and lasts up to 6x longer than other treatments. Talk to your Gates sales representative.

Industry News

Advertisers Index www.aapexshow.com

AAPEX

39

www.affiniagroup.com

Affinia

7

AIA Canada

11-38

Amsoil

32

www.atlastire.com

Atlas Tire Wholesale

19-23-31

www.bluestreak.ca

Blue Streak

3

Cars Council

15

Goodyear

25

www.aiacanada.com www.amsoil.com

New Business Development Manager for Bestbuy

www.cars-council.ca

Kim Bishop, Bestbuy Distributors Ltd.’s national director, Sales & Marketing announces the appointment of another seasoned veteran to its sales team: Brent Karr, Business Development Manager, Manitoba, Saskatchewan & Northwestern Ontario.

www.napacanada.com

NAPA Auto Parts

40

www.napaexcellence.ca

NAPA Excellence

8-9

www.obd3solutions.com

OBD3 Solutions

14

www.promecanix.com

Promécanix

35

www.quakerstate.com

Quaker State

33

Rislone

36

Shell

2

Transbec

5

www.uni-select.com

Uni-Select

29

www.uni-select.com

Uni-Select Ontario

20-21

Valvoline

13

“We are extremely pleased with the addition of Brent, to our business development team. He will be vital in strengthening Bestbuy’s presence in the Canadian Automotive Aftermarket,” states Bishop. Karr will report to Bishop and is a well-versed professional who brings many years of experience to his position. Prior to joining Bestbuy, Karr was the Director of Sales for a well-known remanufacturer.

www.goodyear.ca/

www.rislone.ca www.shell.ca www.transbec.com

www.valvoline.com

AAPEX Organizers Expand Education Program In response to attendee feedback, the Automotive Aftermarket Products Expo’s (AAPEX), “Inside Track” Learning Forum has been expanded to include 28 education seminars. Here are some of the seminars you can take in: • Customer

Service: How to Keep Customers Rushing Back for

More • “Lunch & Learn” – All Things Automotive: Connecting With Gen Y • Value

Based Selling: Breaking the Discounting Habit

• Cost-Effective • Industry

Marketing Techniques for Distributors

Standards – A Look Inside the Shop of Tomorrow

• Automotive

Service Shops: Top Performer Benchmarks and How to Get There

For more information on the “Inside Track” Learning Forum ses sions, visit www.aapexshow.com

Shell Awarded Ferrari’s President Prize Royal Dutch Shell plc (Shell) received the prestigious 2010 Ferrari’s president prize “for ongoing successful technical collaboration”. Shell received this highly coveted prize in recognition of its work with Ferrari in both Formula One and road car arenas, and is based on product technical quality, results, relationship excel lence and superior cooperation. Shell also received this prize in 2007. The prize was presented at the traditional Ferrari Podio event in Ferrari’s hometown of Maranello. For more information, visit www.shell.com | www.autosphere.ca | September 2010 | CarCare Business |

37

Shirley Brown

[email protected]

Of Interest to All Well, summer is gone… but fall brings forth much in the way of colour and challenges. AIA Canada has lined up some very interesting projects for the automotive aftermarket community in October and November and we’ll show you their focus here.

F

session with his tales of the Olympics and all the sports he’s covered from his front row seat. This is a great lineup of speakers and topics that will be of interest to all sectors of the Automotive Aftermarket.

Student Aftermarket Day The AIA Canada YES (Young Executive Society) Committee, in cooperation with Georgian College (CAI-Canadian Automotive Institute), will present its third annual Student Aftermarket Day on November 16 at the Holiday Inn in Barrie, Ontario.

irst of all, a reminder about the

Your Bottom Line” plus “The 8 Essential

AAPEX Show in Las Vegas from

Steps to Finding, Leading and Keeping a

November 2-4 and you’ll find AIA

Top Performing Team”.

Canada right in the midst of it. Visit their Show booth and find out about all that

And much more…

membership with AIA Canada offers you.

In addition to Cooper, you’ll hear from

In addition, Canada Night takes place on

John Watt, Petro-Canada Certigard who

Tuesday, November 2 at Caesar’s Hotel

will tell you how to grow sales without

and Casino.

growing your number of customers. Bill Haas from ASA will explore the ever-

Jeff VandeSande, Président, Bestbuy Distributors

increasing systems affected by electronic

The event always attracts between 120-

controls and recent mechanical innova

130 students as well as the college instruc

tions. Scott Smith of AIA and Bestbuy’s

tors, who are all part of the Automotive

Jeff VandeSande will bring you up to date

program. The day sets its goals on provid

on Ontario regulatory changes. Dave

ing a more in-depth picture of the scope and

Meunier of TACT will focus upon Building

capabilities of the Canadian Aftermarket.

and Training a T.E.A.M. of Professionals and

It also educates the students on the varied

more. Norm Rose of Excel Sales Consulting

career opportunities available in the After

will talk about Positive sales processes.

market sector.

Janice Leroux, CHRP President will speak on HR Performance and Results, and Rod

Day’s format

Black, Sportscaster will close out the

The format this year will consist of several topics related industry panels including

Bill Haas, VP Education and Training, Automotive Service Association

Aftermarket and environmental sustaina bility; Managing the marketing strategy of an aftermarket business and Technology

Next we’d like to tell you about the AIA

along with a fun jeopardy panel where

2010 Ontario Grand Forum: it is to be held

students will be quizzed on aftermarket

Wednesday, October 20 at the Doubletree

topics.

by Hilton, Dixon Road in Toronto and they have some dynamite sessions lined up for

Many Georgian students are interested in

you to learn from and enjoy. Donald Cooper

Aftermarket careers, so it’s a worthwhile

is the keynote speaker and will be front

event to take in to see what the College

and centre for two sessions—“Myths, Lies

has to offer as well as impart what the

and Management… 7 Simple Truths That Will Transform Your Business and Grow

38

Aftermarket is all about and how students Donald Cooper, The Donald Cooper Corporation.


can find a successful career in it.

when was your first aftermarket experience?

Bill Maggs, 1973

My first aftermarket experience was going to work with my dad to the “parts store” on Saturdays when I was still in grade school. I always loved to take things apart and make them work… or break them permanently. I have now have been in the aftermarket for more than 35 years, and attending AAPEX since 1980. AAPEX has offered me and the industry the perfect venue to get things done and plan for the future. The aftermarket is full of great people - and they get together at AAPEX. Bill Maggs, President, National Pronto Association

Tues. - Thurs. Nov. 2 - Nov. 4, 2010 S an ds E x p o C e n t er, L as Ve g as, N V

www.aapexshow.com A L L T H E IN D U S T R Y • A L L T H E P E O P L E • A L L T H E P R O D U C T S • A L L I N O N E P L A C E