NW February.pdf - Parts & People

SUPPLEMENT INSIDE 

Online Edition at 

www.partsandpeople.com 

Serving Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Alaska Volume 105 Number 2 February 2013 

Seattle’s Horton Restorations thrives with 

unique business model under one roof 

by Jerold B. Smith 

Seattle—Nestled in a 4,500- 

square-foot space in Seattle’s 

SODO industrial district is Horton 

Restorations, the umbrella name 

under which three businesses 

operate in a building with just an 

address of 30 South Horton on the 

door — no signage. If one did not 

know what was housed inside this 

unassuming space, surrounded by 

industrial businesses, there would 

be little reason to visit. 

While it may not blaze what it 

does on the exterior, the unique 

trio of businesses operating inside 

has more than a dozen rare and 

classic cars on the shop floor in 

various stages of restoration at all 

times, said Randall Fehr, who owns Randall 

Fehr Restorations, one of three independent 

businesses that operate at the site. 

It all began in 1982 when Greg Soter 

opened Phantom Restorations there, a 

business that provided a wide array of 

vehicle restoration services, Fehr said. In 

1985, Brian Nordby, who now operates The 

Metal Man business at the site, said he 

joined Phantom with metal fabrication 

experience garnered in Montana. “I 

Brian Nordby, who operates The Metal Man, is 

performing full body work, including a new floor 

panel, on this 1940 Dodge Coupe. 

performed metal work with Phantom and 

learned panel restoration,” he said. 

In 1993, Fehr said, he joined Phantom, 

having restored cars as a hobby. “I took a 

car to Phantom for painting and was invited 

to work at the firm,” he said. A Lotus 

specialist, he said his first personal 

restoration was a 1966 Lotus. 

Stephen Clapsaddle arrived at Phantom 

in 1999 after graduating from WyoTech’s 

collision and paint program. “It was my 

first job and now I operate Liquid 

Reflections here in conjunction with 

Brian’s and Randall’s businesses.” 

Ten years ago, the three took over 

Phantom from Soter, but decided that while 

they would work closely together, the trio 

would each operate their own businesses 

within the building. Over the past decade, 

they have each had other employees 

working for them, but each said they have 

such a remarkable work environment they 

simply wanted to maintain high-quality 

restoration and carefully control what is 

performed at the shop. 

“There is not a dull moment around 

here,” Fehr said. “There are always several 

short- and long-term projects on the floor, 

so we all keep busy,” he said. Even during 

the past several years when some 

businesses faced an economic downturn, 

the trio said they remained busy with 

projects. 

Continued on page 20 

INSIDE Parts & People 

More than 11,700 circulated 

Tool and equipment suppliers to 

showcase products at ATE . . . . . . . . . 3 

A variety of tools and equipment will be 

displayed at the Automotive Training Expo 

(ATE) set for March 1-3, in SeaTac. 

COLLISION REPAIR 

Pages 15-19 C1-C4 

Varied career helps owner maintain 

award-winning custom shop . . . . . 15 

Custom shop 

Owner Terry Morris 

says even in a 

down economy, 

people want to 

invest in the 

vehicles that make 

them feel good, either by building, restoring, 

or customizing classic cars. 

Insufficiently trained techs in welding 

are in ‘alarming numbers’ . . . . . . . C-2 

Collision Tools & Equipment . . . . . C-4 

New restoration tools and equipment 

a hit for Eastwood Company . . . . . 17 

The Eastwood Company rolls out new 

products for automotive restoration. 

Collision Repair Training Notes . . . 18 

. . . . . . . . . . . . 

Coming focus issues 

March 

Underhood Maintenance & Air Conditioning / 

Medium- & Heavy-Duty Truck 

ONLINE 

More photos and 

articles at 

partsandpeople.com 

Classic Industries evolves with changing 

appetite for American restorations . . . 13 

Campbell Hausfeld pursues professional 

market with new commercial line . . . 21 

NW/C 

Electronic Service Requested 

Hot rod and restoration markets 

rebound after recession . . . . . . . . . . . . 3 

Telematics and 1234yf to be hot topics 

at ETI ToolTech in April . . . . . . . . . . . . 5 

New licensing program launches 

for oil distribution channel . . . . . . . . . . 7 

Auto Notes . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10 

The 2014 Chevrolet Corvette’s 6.2-L V-8 

engine is the quickest, most fuel-efficient ever. 

Diesel exhaust fluid is burgeoning 

market in fleet and heavy-duty . . . . . 11 

Cooper’s Keys to Auto Repair Profits . . 22 

Rare Parts services far more than the 

hot rod and restoration markets . . . . 23 

Rare Parts keeps cars, trucks, and motor 

homes on the road long after their parts are no 

longer available. 

Recently Driven . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25 

Parts & People tests the 2013 Kia Sportage 

and the Acura MDX. 

Tool & Equipment Product Notes . . . 26 

People & Places . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 28 

PRSRT STD 

U.S. Postage 

PAID 

Columbia, MO 

Permit No. 353 

PARTS & PEOPLE (Northwest Region) 

P.O. Box 46937 

Seattle, WA 98146-0937 

VMMC is set for March 26-28 

at Shoreline Community College . . . . 12 

Mechanical Repair Training Notes . . 28 

Calendar of Events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31

Page 2 February 2013 Parts & People www.partsandpeople.com

Automotive Tools & Equipment / Hot Rod & Restoration Focus Issue 

Tool and equipment suppliers will showcase products at ATE in March 


SeaTac, Wash.—While the Automotive 

Training Expo (ATE) will offer the most 

comprehensive management and 

technical training venue for automotive 

service and repair professionals on the 

West Coast, the event also features an 

extensive trade show on Friday and 

Saturday evenings. Exhibitors at the trade 

expo will be displaying parts, products, 

tools, equipment, and business services 

pertinent to collision and mechanical 

facilities. 

Set for March 1-3, at the Doubletree 

Hotel near SeaTac International Airport, 

ATE is produced by the Automotive 

Service Association of Washington 

(ASA-WA) and co-sponsored by the 

Northwest Tire Dealers Association 

(NWTDA) and the Washington 

Automotive Industry Association 

(WAIA). For complete details on ATE, 

including a full list of exhibitors at the 

trade show, visit 

www.atetrainingexpo.com. 

The following are some of the 

exhibitors that will be featuring tools and 

equipment at the ATE trade show: 

NAPA will be featuring two diagnostic 

tools: the Bosch ESIAccess and the OTC 

Genysis Touch. Both are unique tools that 

offer specific capabilities for diagnostics 

and scanning. 

The Bosch ESIAccess, currently a 

NAPA exclusive, is what Counterman 

Magazine calls a “revolutionary scan tool 

subscription program.” 

“ESIAccess is a fee-based advanced 

diagnostic solution that provides access 

to advanced scan tool technology with the 

most up-to-date software, technical 


The Bosch ESIAccess diagnostic system 

will be in the NAPA booth at the ATE trade 

expo. 

Hot rod and restoration markets rebound after recession, research reveals 

by Dick DeLoach 

Riverside, Calif.—Information 

provided by automotive market 

research and industry data firm Fast 

Lane Research (FLR) on the hot 

rod and restoration market niches 

reveals an increase in retail sales of 

aftermarket parts and accessories in 

2012, FLR founder Jim 

Spoonhower said. 

“The two niches together 

continue to recover and grew by a 

little under 2 percent in 2012,” 

Spoonhower said. “We also saw a 

little more than 2 percent growth in 

2011 and expect the trend to 

continue for 2013.” 

Gavin Knapp, SEMA senior manager of 

research, said the street rod/hot rod and 

custom niche has experienced incremental 

growth for the past 10 years, with a total of 

$1.17 billion in retail sales in 2011, with 

performance products showing the most 

growth. 

Sales in the restoration specialtyequipment 

market comprise a broad mix of 

products that include accessory and 

appearance products: wheels, tires, 

suspension, and performance products, 

Knapp said. 

“The accessory and appearance segment 

suffered most from the recession in this 

niche,” Knapp said. “The other two 

product segments suffered only modest 

declines and are now rebounding.” 

Altogether, the market recorded $1.43 

billion in retail sales in 2011, according to 

data from Lang Research in the 2012 

SEMA Annual Market Report. 

“Restoration is really made up of smaller, 

but clearly different, niche markets,” 

Spoonhower said. “Most noticeable are the 

‘drivers’ niche and the collector niche,” he 

said. 

Car shows and cruises are popular with both hot rod and 

restoration enthusiasts, and a good place to sell products 

on vendors row. 

The hot rod and the restoration niche 

markets have fragmented over the years, 

Spoonhower said. “Within hot rod there are 

the old school, the rat rod, the muscle car, 

and the lowrider niches, just to name a few.” 

Somewhere between hot rod and 

restoration is the ‘resto-mod’ segment,” 

Spoonhower said. “Each of these niches 

has individual groups of vehicles that are 

popular with their particular enthusiasts — 

primarily pre-1973 vehicles.” 

On average, the model years of vehicles 

have moved forward a bit, Spoonhower 

said. “We used to see the 

1930s and 1940s heavily 

represented, and now the 

1960s and 1970s are really 

gaining popularity.” 

The reintroduction of 

retro-styled muscle cars by 

Detroit has sparked 

renewed interest in 

Camaros, Mopar muscle 

cars, and Mustangs, he said. 

Spoonhower said the 

product emphasis has 

shifted more to two areas: 

performance, including the 

GM LS1/LS2/LS6 crate engines, 

and new technology such as the 50- 

state-legal E-ROD LS3 crate 

engine. 

“Obviously, muscle cars are all 

about performance, so hot rodders 

and restorers are gravitating to 

those products,” Spoonhower said. 

On the other hand, the resto-mod 

approach causes some consumers 

to select more high-tech products, 

Spoonhower said. “They are 

looking for more modern ‘bells and 

whistles’ and don’t mind adding 

them to their project vehicle.” 

In the hot rod market, new 

technology products that add convenience 

or performance continue to gain market 

attention, Spoonhower said. 

“On the restoration side, the market 

seems to be trending more toward the 

purist approach,” he said. “Consumers 

want the vehicle to be as close to original 

as possible. The rat rod segment even 

prefers not to repaint and replace as they 

restore their vehicles. They prefer to keep 

the OEM components and the aged patina 

look.” 

That said, Spoonhower believes the 

One of the newest niches in the hot rod market is the 

“rat rod.” 

recession has caused enthusiasts to move 

away from adding accessories and other 

parts just for the sake of adding them. 

“Today, they are considering the value the 

product adds to the vehicle or to their 

enjoyment of it.” 

The SEMA Market Report’s breakdown 

of retail sales channels for restoration 

products revealed that nearly 85 percent are 

purchased at specialty product/installation 

outlets, automotive chains, mail-order 

companies, direct from manufacturers, 

discount chains, tire dealers, and full-line 

auto parts stores. 

The other 15 percent of products are 

purchased at new-vehicle dealers, speed 

shops/performance retailers, wholesale 

clubs, import auto parts stores, independent 

repair shops, and machine shops, the report 

showed. 

“While sales at independent repair shops 

represented only 1.2 percent of the total, 

that still translated into $17.16 million in 

retail sales, so independent repair shops can 

definitely profit from the market,” Knapp 

said. 

Hot rod and restoration groups are both 

very much into car shows and club events, 

Spoonhower said. “With both groups, the 

events range from the very formal national 

or regional events to the more casual 

‘cruise in’ or swap meet-type gatherings. 

The events may be different for the two 

groups, but the theme is the same, he said. 

“It’s all about the community and their 

common enjoyment of a particular segment 

of the car culture.” 

Spoonhower said, “It is hard to speak in 

‘averages’ because I see the two markets 

very differently. Even though the hot rod 

and restoration markets have combined in 

many ways, there are noticeable 

differences from the consumer’s 

perspective.” n 

Parts & People February 2013 Page 3

Parts & People 

The Monthly Regional Publication 

For Northwest 

Automotive Specialists 

Volume 105 / Number 2, February 2013 

Publisher: Lance Buchner 

Associate Publishers: 

Jerold B. Smith and Michael Anderson 

Managing Editor: Rob Merwin 

Northwest Regional Manager: 

Jerold B. Smith 

Contributors: John Yoswick, 

Dick DeLoach, Matthew Sevart, 

Steve Sharp, Jay Sicht 

Graphic Arts Director: Mario Waller 

Printer: Tribune Publishing Co. Inc. 

Parts & People is published monthly by 

Automotive Counseling & Publishing 

Company, Inc., a Colorado corporation. 

ISSN 1083-771Z 

Northwest Edition 

P.O Box 46937 

Seattle, WA 98146-0937 

Phone: 206-935-3336 Fax: 206-937-9732 

Toll Free: 800-850-9288 

e-mail: jerry@partsandpeople.com 

Corporate Office 

Automotive Counseling & Publishing Co., Inc. 

PO Box 18731, Denver, Colorado 80218-7310 

800-530-8557 

President/Publisher: Lance Buchner 

National Sales Director & Associate Publisher: 

Michael Anderson 

Founded by Lance Buchner and Dave Lucia. 

www.partsandpeople.com 

Executive Assistant / Financial and IT Manager: 

Amanda Buchner 

Web and Production Manager: James Faust 

Circulation: Tracy Buchner, tracy@partsandpeople.com 

Subscriptions are free to all automotive-related Northwest 

regional business owners and managers; $36 per year, 

per edition to all others. 

For mail renewals or change of address, please include 

mailing label. 

Reproduction of any of the contents of this publication by 

any means is prohibited without specific written 

permission of the publisher. Copyright 2013, 

Automotive Counseling & Publishing Company, Inc. 

All rights reserved. 

Publisher’s Statement 

Increasing volume of information 

impacts tool and equipment decisions 

As the volume of vehicle service information increases, 

seemingly without end, the difficulties experienced by tool 

manufacturers to incorporate the information in a timely, 

useful, and efficient way is negatively impacted. By the time 

new tools reach the aftermarket, the sum total of the delays 

and difficulties manifest themselves in the service bay in the 

form of additional cost, service accuracy, and inefficiencies. 

Achieving service readiness for tools and equipment in the 

dealership service bays is a challenge being met by the 

automakers, OE suppliers and tool manufacturers but, as word 

has it, with increasing difficulty. Adding aftermarket needs to 

the challenge remains a secondary, complex, but still 

important concern. 

Although OEM scan tools and information are available, 

the process by which it arrives is often incomplete with key 

data missing. When aftermarket service operations receive 

scan tools “de-contented” to niche repair or with content 

removed for proprietary or security reasons, certain types of 

repair work often cannot be completed. Many scan tools, too, 

are not compatible to previous generations. 

As the volume of diagnostic repair information continues 

to increase, the need for centralized disbursement of the 

information, pre-planning, and industry collaboration will be 

needed. Industry collaboration leading to centralized 

information warehousing and disbursement may well be the 

next step and it is really overdue. Following the agreement 

that resulted in the Massachusetts Right to Repair law late 

last year, the continuing work and significant 

accomplishments of the Equipment and Tool Institute (ETI), 

and now an expanding, reorganization of the National 

Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) to reflect a more 

technical make-up, the wheels are set in motion. 

Parts & People applauds the recent election of Charlie 

Gorman, CEO of ETI, to be the interim chairman of NASTF for 

2013. Gorman is long familiar with NASTF, having been 

present and valuable during points of contention and agreement 

in NASTF discussions over the years. His leadership and broad 

industry perspective will be invaluable to the board as it launches 

a Technician Outreach initiative and formalizes the management 

of the valuable NASTF Vehicle Security Professional Registry at 

its spring meeting, March 8, during the Vision Hi-Tech Training 

and Expo in Kansas City, Mo. 

“NASTF plays a unique role in the automotive industry as a 

contact point between independent technicians and service 

support executives inside each of the OEMs,” said Skip Potter, 

recently appointed executive director of NASTF. Mark 

Saxonberg (Toyota), Kelly Geist (Subaru), and Bob Stewart 

(GM) are the early confirmations for OEM participation. We 

anticipate discussion regarding scan tool information and 

eventual aftermarket ease and efficiency of use at the meeting. 

Certified lift inspection 

The Automotive Lift Institute (ALI) persevered and its new 

Lift Inspector Certification Program recently launched at SEMA. 

The ALI program was created to provide third-party qualification 

and certification of vehicle lift inspectors to properly inspect 

vehicle lifts in accordance with ANSI standards and OSHA 

general duties. It is the only such program in North America that 

independently tests and certifies vehicle inspectors. 

Many of us have seen the damage and possible dangers that 

can result from an uninspected, unmaintained lift. It’s a 

program worth support and a service in which shops should 

partake. The first group of ALI Certified Lift Inspectors will be 

announced May 15. n 

• OE-QUALITY, FIT AND FUNCTION 

The right part, the right fit. Better dependability and quicker, easier 

installations. 

• ENGINEERING 

Each GM Powertrain component incorporates the very latest engineering 

technology. 

• POWERFUL WARRANTY 

3 years/100,000 miles* for GM OE Powertrain. 2 years / 50,000 miles* 

for GM Performance Parts Engines. Warranty covers both parts and labor. 

• INDEPENDENT SERVICE CENTER WARRANTY 

The installing independent service center may perform the GM Powertrain 

warranty repairs. 

• WARRANTY FLEXIBILITY ADDS VALUE 

Warranties reside with the vehicle, not the owner, so vehicles can be sold 

with an added value of the warranty. 

• INSTALLATION SUPPORT 

GM, Ford and Chrysler makes it 3X easier for you to receive product, 

warranty, availability and purchase information, as well as technical support 

1-866-OE-PARTS (1-866-637-2787). 

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• Low cost shipping to Alaska 

Federal Way, WA 

Parts Phone: 800-257-6655 

McCurley 

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Parts Phone: 800-456-6257 

*Whichever comes first — from date and mileage of installation by an 

authorized GM Dealer or a qualified service center. For over-the-counter 

sales, warranty begins on the date and mileage of retail sale. Contact your 

Genuine GM Parts dealer for details. 

See your Genuine GM Parts dealer for peace-of-mind and competitive prices 

• 65,000 Mile Warranty* 

• Green Technologies 

• Improved Rolling Resistance 

• Fuel Efficient 

• Compounding and 

design promotes reduced 

CO2 emissions 

• Utilizes 5% Recycled 

ground rubber (EP 422 Only) 

• Silica compound for 

improved wet traction 

• Fits Hybrid and Non-Hybrid 

vehicles 

• Popular fitments – Including 

Honda, Toyota, Chevy, Buick, 

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Exceeding Expectations - One Tire At A Time. 

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*Certain restrictions and limitations apply. See your authorized retailer for complete details. 

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ToolTech 2013 to spotlight evolving vehicle technological advancements 

by Matthew Sevart 

Margengo, Ill. —The future is here. The 

cars may not be flying on skyways, but 

they have reached a 

level of 

sophistication in 

internal and 

vehicle-to-vehicle 

communication that 

is revolutionizing 

the future of the 

automotive industry 

via telematics. 

Those constantly 

evolving 

technological 

advancements, as 

Jessie Korosec, 

Equipment and Tool 

Institute marketing 

manager 

well as others, are the focus of this year's 

ETI ToolTech 2013, which is centered 

around: “Driving the Innovation that 

Drives the Aftermarket.” The automotive 

aftermarket industry is a $286 billion 

business and has a projected growth rate 

of 4 percent per year. The Equipment and 

Tool Institute (ETI) is asking: “How much 

of the aftermarket business is your 

company capturing?” 

“Companies face new technology 

challenges every year such as plug-in 

electrics and engines with no camshafts, 

new legislation, new refrigerants requiring 

new equipment and test procedures, and 

knowing how to prosper in a truly global 

ecosystem,” said Jessie Korosec, 

Equipment and Tool Institute marketing 

manager. 

Those issues, among others, will be hot 

topics at the upcoming annual ToolTech 

2013 event, hosted by ETI, April 23-25, at 

the Hyatt Mission Bay in San Diego. 

The three-day event is designed for tool 

and equipment industry professionals 

looking to network and meet with OEMs, 

tool and equipment companies, national 

accounts, large suppliers, dealer groups, 

distributors, manufacturers’ 

representatives, and other industry 

leaders, Korosec said. 

“ToolTech brings tool and equipment 

industry professionals together where they 

can network, learn, and perhaps see where 

there are synergies between companies,” 

she said. “It gives our members the 

opportunity keep updated on industry 

issues and trends, to promote themselves, 

their capabilities, their products, and meet 

potential customers and potential product 

providers, in addition to solidifying 

business and industry relationships.” 

ETI is currently finalizing the topics 

and speaker lineup for ToolTech 2013, 

said Korosec, adding that some of the 

topics will include telematics challenges 

and direction, service readiness and 

mandates, education and training, as well 

as new technologies and 1234yf 

refrigerant updates. 

Presentations will also include a look 

into opportunities for ETI members to 

work with the Collision Repair Education 

Foundation, as well as an overview of a 

research project on J-2534 flash 

reprogramming that analyzes equipment 

use and trends from the end users of tools 

and equipment. 

“The research looks at the typical repair 

shop, from demographics to which tools 

and equipment they are using, ease of use, 

and familiarity with flash 

reprogramming,” Korosec said. “ETI is 

also planning to present a second market 

research study on information access and 

use that will look at what resources 

technicians are using with some detail into 

quantity, quality, wants and wishes, and 

what is known about future regulations, 

the use of YouTube, bulletin boards and 

other unaffiliated information sources.” 

New for ToolTech 2013 are moderated 

Roundtable Discussions which will give 

ETI Members the opportunity to engage 

in productive discussions and exchange 

useful information on various topics such 

as education, training and marketing. 

ToolTech 2013 will also include oneon-one 

meetings, a company showcase for 

members to highlight its latest products 

and services, said Korosec, as well as a 

not-to-be-missed closing dinner at the San 

Diego Air and Space Museum. 

For more information on ToolTech 

2013, contact Jessie Korosec at 

jessiek@etools.org. n 


Tool and equipment suppliers will showcase products at ATE 

Continued from page 3 

support, and warranty service,” said Ryan 

Beerbower, of NAPA Tools & Equipment 

at the Seattle DC. 

The solution has broad software 

coverage for European, Asian, and 

domestic vehicles, and it is said to save 

shops money as there is access to 

hardware upgrades, inclusive software 

upgrades, and costs less than 

conventional plans. 

The Genysis Touch performs critical 

scan and reprogramming for European, 

Asian, and domestic cars and light trucks. 

It is a rugged PC tablet with a Windows 

operating system, AutoDetect, Wi-Fi, 

Vehicle AutoID, and other services. The 

all-makes coverage kit provides 30 years 

of software vehicle information. 

Evergreen Auto Service Equipment 

will be exhibiting several equipment 

solutions at ATE, Owner David Newton 

said. One key product will be the 

MotorVac CarClean machine, an A/C 

ventilation and interior sanitizing system 

dubbed the MIST machine. 

Evergreen Auto Service Equipment will 

display the MotorVac CarClean service 

machine that sanitizes and cleans vehicle 

interiors and HVAC systems. 

Newton said there is growing need for 

clean air quality in vehicles and refers to 

a report by Georgia State University 

about fungus and mold growing in 

vehicle cabins and the hazards those can 

cause to drivers and passengers. The 

CarClean offers preventive maintenance 

on all vehicles, restores in-vehicle air 

quality for a healthier driving 

environment, and cleans and deodorizes 

the entire HVAC system. Using a onebutton 

operation, the vehicle’s 

recirculation system draws the mist 

through the vent system and “fogs” the 

entire interior of the vehicle. 

The CarClean is portable and operates 

on a 12-volt DC system. Newton said he 

will have six of the MIST machines on 

hand at ATE with special pricing 

available, as well as cases of sanitizing 

chemicals. 

Evergreen will also be displaying the 

Yellow Jacket 37880 Hybrid Vehicle 

Refrigerant Management System. 

Autonerdz will offer ATE trade show 

attendees a unique product, the PC-based 

PicoScope, that it introduced to the 

automotive trade in North America. 

“Autonerdz remains the PicoScope 

authority on the continent, offering the 

best value in PicoScope anywhere,” 

Owner Tom Roberts said. 

“PicoScope is the most powerful 

automotive lab scope in the world, and 

Autonerdz includes the support and 

training resources to provide everything 

needed for a technician to reach their 

desired level of expertise with the 

equipment,” Roberts said. 

“The PicoQuad 4000 Deluxe kit is our 

ATE featured product, and this kit is only 

available from Autonerdz.” 

The PicoScope will be featured at the 

Autonerdz booth at ATE. 

LDC Equipment, based in Bonney 

Lake, is displaying the QMT1000 

Advanced Metal Tester at ATE. John 

Leddy, of LDC, said that as newer vehicle 

models are employing an increasing 

amount of technology, blueprinting is 

becoming a paramount activity in 

ascertaining the extent of damage and the 

costs of repair. 

Higher-strength steels in vehicles 

require special handling and procedure 

according to LDC, and by properly 

identifying the steel content in the 

damaged area, shops have the necessary 

data and proof to ensure accurate 

estimates and insurance submissions. 

Prior to the availability of the 

QMT1000, Leddy said, shops had to rely 

on OEM or third-party manuals and 

experience to make damage 

determinations. The blueprinting tool 

now provides an almost instant reading of 

the metal’s hardness and an online link 

reveals the proper procedures that are 

required, as well as a printed 

certificate/report of the metal under test. 

Snap-on Equipment will exhibit a 

variety of tools and equipment at ATE, 

including the V3D1 X-Cel Toolbox that 

provides live alignment readings and 

diagnostic data, said Jon LaRue, director 

of Product Management for the company. 

The V3D1 is a productivity enhancer and 

provides customers with clear, concise 

information to make informed decisions 

about vehicle service and repair. 

The X-Cel features an advanced AC400 

wheel clamp with a lightweight and 

durable design that attaches to the tire, 

not the rim. “This innovation prevents the 

opportunity for damage on expensive 

alloy wheels,” LaRue said. Another 

machine advantage includes EZ-TOE, 

which allows the user to lock in the 

alignment readings and then rotate the 

wheels, allowing access to difficult to 

reach areas. 

Cross-diagonal measurements on the 

X-Cel quickly identify frame or structural 

issues, and a rolling radius function 

identifies mismatched tire sizes, along 

with preventing premature wear to 

transfer units and AWD powertrain 

components, LaRue said. n 

LDC Equipment, based in Bonney Lake, is 

displaying the QMT1000 Advanced Metal 

Tester at ATE. 

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New industry-wide licensing program launches for oil distribution channel 

“Distributors will be able to set themselves 

apart from others who may not be as 

rigorous in monitoring and maintaining 

quality of product — or in the extreme, not 

identifying the true quality of product,” 

says Kevin Ferrick, manager of 

certification programs for American 

Petroleum Institute. 

by Rob Merwin 

Las Vegas—A recently launched 

industry-wide campaign, Motor Oil 

Matters (MOM), features a licensing 

program for oil manufacturers, 

distributors, and installers that uses a 

labeling system to make sure oils meet 

specific standards and are properly 

identified and handled, said Kevin 

Ferrick, manager of certification 

programs for American Petroleum 

Institute (API), a nonprofit trade 

association representing the U.S oil and 

natural gas industry that’s been 

developing engine oil standards since the 

1940s. 

“We’ve introduced a chain-of-custody 

standard that requires a manufacturer to 

identify a product’s quality to a 

distributor, who then ensures its 

authenticity to an installer and then to the 

consumer,” he said. 

API certifies engine oil depending upon 

level of performance with seals of 

approval. “Companies that meet our 

requirements and performance standards 

are licensed to use our marks,” said 

Ferrick, of the voluntary program, at 

AAPEX. 

The MOM campaign not only intends 

to educate consumers, but also those in 

the industry, because “frankly, we 

discover they don’t understand certain 

procedures and subsequent ramifications, 

such as buying in bulk and not realizing 

what they’re actually getting — hopefully 

they’ll learn to ask a few more 

questions.” 

Manufacturers and distributors must 

demonstrate they meet standards, which 

involves providing documentation such 

as bills of lading and samples for API 

testing, after which oils will be awarded 

seals of approval. 

“Distributors will be able to set 

themselves apart from others who 

may not be as rigorous in 

monitoring and maintaining 

quality of product — or in the 

extreme, not identifying the true 

quality of product,” he said. “API 

will take action if needed, in cases 

of fraud or instances where the 

product is just poorly 

manufactured.” 

Ferrick said there is also an API 

installer license in addition to the 

manufacturer and distributor. “They need 

to be sure they’re getting the appropriate 

“We’re giving people 

assurance that they’re 

getting what they expect.” 

oil information from distributors to share 

its value with customers. Licensed 

installers will benefit by being listed on 

MOM’s website and searchable database 

for consumers to verify they’re receiving 

API-quality product.” 

Program participants will be able to say 

they are committed to quality and their 

customers are receiving recommended 

oils for their specific vehicles, he added. 

“We’re giving people assurance that 

they’re getting what they expect.” 

He said the campaign will gain 

exposure through its recently re-launched 

website, a new Facebook page, and 

Twitter. n 


VSG trains 75 ALI Lift Inspector Certification Program candidates 

Madison, Ind.—Rotary Lift, 

Forward Lift and Direct Lift, the lift 

brands of Vehicle Service Group 

(VSG), welcomed 75 lift inspector 

candidates to Madison, Ind., recently 

for factory training to prepare them to 

take the Automotive Lift Institute 

(ALI) Lift Inspector Certification 

Program Pre-Course Examination. 

VSG is the first lift manufacturer to 

provide this training to its distributor 

network. Attendees came from 36 lift 

service companies located in 24 states. 

“Factory training is not a requirement of 

the ALI Lift Inspector Certification 

Program,” said Ron Lainhart, Rotary Lift 

parts and service manager. “But education is 

one of the defining factors in making ours 

the strongest lift installation and service 

network in North America. We are taking 

extra steps to support Rotary Lift, Forward 

Lift, and Direct Lift distributors who have 

committed to getting their lift inspectors 

certified. We believe this will allow them to 

better serve our mutual customers: the shops 

Rotary Lift, Forward Lift, and Direct Lift, the vehicle lift brands of 

Vehicle Service Group (VSG), provided factory training to 75 lift 

inspector candidates recently. 

and technicians who depend on their lifts 

every day.” 

Lift inspection has long been a focus at 

VSG. Rotary Lift invested heavily in a 

multi-year “Inspect to Protect” campaign 

highlighting the importance of regular lift 

maintenance and inspections. Lainhart; Bob 

Ford, Rotary Lift customer service manager; 

Paul Lee, Rotary Lift sales heavy-duty 

support; and Josh Scroggins, Forward Lift 

product support, have helped develop the 

ALI Lift Inspector Certification Program, 

serving on the Pilot Group 

and being named Factory 

Designated Trainers. 

There are currently 94 

VSG distributors 

participating in the ALI Lift 

Inspector Certification 

Program, with more than 

200 candidates enrolled, 

which is more than any 

other lift manufacturer, 

Lainhart said. 

On Jan. 3-4, VSG 

trainers reviewed key concepts that will be 

covered on the lift inspector pre-course 

exam, including fundamental electrical, 

mechanical, hydraulic, and pneumatic 

principles. 

The new ALI Lift Inspector Certification 

Program is the only program in North 

America that independently tests and 

certifies vehicle lift inspectors. The ANSI 

National Standard covering vehicle lift 

operation, inspection and maintenance, 

ANSI/ALI ALOIM: 2008, requires that all 

installed vehicle lifts be inspected annually 

by a qualified vehicle lift inspector. 

The certification program will provide 

assurance to lift owners that when they hire 

an ALI Certified Lift Inspector, they are 

qualified to perform inspections. The first 

group of ALI Certified Lift Inspectors will 

be announced May 15. At that time, an 

online database at 

www.autolift.org/certified-inspectors.php 

will enable customers to locate a local 

certified inspector. 

VSG plans to offer additional classes to 

its distributors’ certification candidates this 

year. Distributors should contact Lainhart 

(ext. 5536) or Ford (ext. 5510) at 800-640- 

5438 for details. n 

ALI launches online database 

of Lift Inspector testing locations 

Cortland, N.Y.—Participants in the 

Automotive Lift Institute’s (ALI) new Lift 

Inspector Certification Program now have 

an easy tool to use to find local testing 

sites where they can take their pre-course 

and course examinations. 

ALI has partnered with Applied 

Measurement Professionals (AMP) to 

create a searchable database of locations 

that support the program’s tests at 

www.goamp.com. 

Applicants simply visit the website and 

click on the “candidates” box in the upper 

right corner. In the first and second dropdown 

menus, select “Other,” and then 

“Automotive Lift Institute Inc.” 

Applicants choose which test they are 

approved to take, ALI’s pre-course or 

course examination, in the third dropdown. 

After all the information is selected, 

AMP’s portal will show a “Locate Testing 

Centers” link. The testing sites listed can be 

narrowed by state or searched by ZIP code. 

“This is a really easy way for someone to 

take the final steps on the path to becoming 

an ALI Certified Lift Inspector,” said ALI 

President R.W. “Bob” O’Gorman. “The ALI 

Lift Inspector Certification Program is brand 

new and we want to make things as 

convenient as possible to encourage people 

to participate. You can even register for your 

test online once you find your location. With 

multiple testing sites, applicants can take the 

exams at a time and place that works for 

them.” 

The Lift Inspector Certification Program 

was created to provide third-party 

qualification of vehicle lift inspectors and to 

certify those who demonstrate that they are 

qualified to properly inspect vehicle lifts in 

accordance with ANSI standards and in 

support of OSHA’s General Duty Clause and 

provincial requirements in Canada. Detailed 

materials can be found at 

www.autolift.org/certified-inspectors. n 


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Auto Notes 

compiled by Jerold B. Smith 

 

 

 

 

 

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Rear-view cameras? Dec. 31 

has come and gone, but the 

National Highway Traffic Safety 

Administration (NHTSA) did not 

finalize regulations on mandatory 

rear-view cameras for light 

vehicles sold in the U.S. A law 

passed by Congress in 2008, and 

signed by President Bush, 

required back-up cameras on cars 

and light trucks by 2014 as a 

safety measure due to an average 

229 deaths and almost 18,000 

injuries caused each year by 

backover accidents. 

NHTSA said it is working on 

rulemaking, but it is unclear when 

the regulations would take effect. It is 

estimated that the cost to automakers 

would be between $58 and $88 per 

vehicle for those currently equipped with 

a dash screen, and between $159 and 

$203 for those without screen displays. A 

large percentage of vehicles being sold 

currently are equipped with rear-view 

cameras, so many auto manufacturers 

have the technology in place. 

NHTSA also announced in December 

that it is reviewing a proposal to expand 

the use of electronically controlled Event 

Data Recorders (EDRs) in light-duty 

Wholesale Parts: 

425-643-1976 

425-643-4544 

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Bellevue, WA 98005 

parts@bmw-bellevue.com 

The 2013 GL-Class from Mercedes-Benz won Motor Trend’s 

top honors as the 2013 Sport/Utility of the Year, in large part 

because of the extensive and fuel-efficient engine offerings 

of the class. 

vehicles. Similar to “black boxes” used in 

airplanes, the EDRs would record limited 

event data prior to and during vehicle 

crash situations. If adopted, automakers 

would likely be required to have EDRs on 

vehicles manufactured after 2014. 

Top SUV. The 2013 Mercedes-Benz GL 

Class was recently named the Motor 

Trend 2013 Sport/Utility of the Year, the 

second time the SUV has won the 

prestigious award. Built in Tuscaloosa, 

Ala., the second-generation, full-size GL 

is part of an SUV family that 

includes the mid-size M-Class, the 

compact GLK, and the legendary G- 

Class. 

The Mercedes GL350 BlueTEC 

turbo-diesel is powered by a 249-HP 

engine that produces 455 lb-ft. of 

torque, while the GL450 is equipped 

with a 363-HP (406 lb-ft.) 

powerpack. A beefy 429-HP engine 

is standard on the GL550 engine 

(516 lb-ft.), and the highperformance 

GL63 AMG has a 

powerful 550-HP unit that produces 

a hefty 516 lb-ft. of torque. 

“We’re honored that the GL-Class 

has once again been awarded Motor 

Trend’s Sport/Utility of the Year,” 

said Steve Cannon, president and CEO of 

Mercedes-Benz USA. “From the very 

beginning, the GL-Class has been 

perfectly tuned to the needs of U.S. 

customers. Motor Trend’s critical acclaim 

for the depth of the class functionality, 

together with the broadest powertrain 

offering in any full-size SUV, shows our 

commitment to delivering on our promise 

to our customers of the best or nothing.” 

Hot engine design. When the all-new 

2014 Chevrolet Corvette arrives at 

dealerships later this year, it will be 

powered by a technologically advanced, 

race-proven 6.2-L V-8 engine that will 

deliver 450 HP. 

While it’s the most powerful 

Corvette engine ever, and the 

quickest standard engine ever (0- 

60 MPH in less than four 

seconds), the new LT1 will also 

be the most fuel-efficient 

Corvette power unit ever, with 

an estimated 26 MPG on the 

highway. “The LT1 represents 

the most significant redesign in 

the small block’s nearly 60-year 

history,” said Sam Winegarden, 

GM’s vice president for Global 

Powertrain Engineering. “More 

than just great horsepower, the 

LT1 has been optimized to 

produce a broader power band. 

Below 4,000 RPM, the torque of the 

Corvette LT1 is comparable to the 

legendary 7.0-L LS7 in the current Z06.” 

Increased power and efficiency on the 

all-new LT1 engine are a result of what 

Chevrolet officials said was an 

unprecedented level of analysis (more 

than 10 million hours), including a new 

direct-injection architecture, a first-ever 

Corvette Active Fuel Management 

system, and continuously variable valve 

timing that GM pioneered for overheadvalve 

engines. 

The LT1 engine in the 2014 Chevrolet Corvette 

will feature smaller combustion chambers, a 

new cylinder head design, and a new sculpted 

piston design that assists the high-compression 

engine performance. 

Quick notes. Detroit Diesel, owned by 

Daimler AG, will add 115 jobs and invest 

$120 million at its Redford Township, 

Mich., plant that will produce a turbocharged, 

12-speed transmission … Subaru 

December sales were up 26 percent and 

the automaker posted another record sales 

year in 2012. The company is the only 

auto manufacturer in the U.S. to have 

posted five straight years of vehicle sales 

increases, even in the most dire recession 

years … Ford Motor Co. will triple its 

production capacity of its electrified 

vehicle range this year. The new Focus 

Electric, the C-MAX Hybrid, and the C- 

MAX Energi plug-in hybrid are three 

crucial elements of the plan. n 


Diesel exhaust fluid is burgeoning market in fleet and heavy-duty 

selective catalytic reduction (SCR). Cook 

explained that SCR is an after-treatment 

system that involves injecting DEF into the 

exhaust so NOx is converted into harmless 

nitrogen and water. Diesel exhaust fluid is 

essentially very high purity urea and water, 

he said. It’s not a fuel additive. 

DEF will allow engines to run at their 

highest fuel efficiency and operating 

parameters — or “hot” — which creates 

NOx, and then treats the NOx with the 

SCR system. Cook further explained that 

diesel particulate matter, which is created 

in engines when they’re running “cool,” is 

also eliminated by running engines hot. 

“By doing this, there’s been a 5-percent 

improvement in fuel economy, mostly in 

off-road applications and larger off-road 

applications — it’s huge.” 

He said for every 100 gallons of diesel, 

two to three gallons of diesel exhaust 

fluid will be required for on-road 

applications, while off-road vehicles will 

use more. 

DEF, which is nonhazardous, 

nonflammable, nontoxic, and safe to 

handle, requires dedicated stainless-steel 

and plastic storage systems to avoid 

contamination so as not to affect catalytic 

converters, Cook said. As the use of DEF 

grows, so will the equipment required to 

use it, including pumps, meters, and inground 

tank systems. 

Emrich said Peak will have 31 DEF 

U.S. manufacturing locations in 2013. 

“Old World Industries saw this 

technology coming years ago, and this is 

the way America is going — you’ll see 

DEF everywhere. It’s the future.” n 

Diesel exhaust fluid will be a 1.8 billiongallon 

market, and it’ll be at every truck 

stop and everywhere diesel is sold, says 

Frank Cook, PhD., a diesel exhaust expert. 

by Rob Merwin 

Las Vegas—Diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) 

will experience exponential growth in sales 

for years to come and will become one of 

the dominant products used by commercial 

fleets, courtesy of EPA-emissions 

mandates, said Bryan Emrich, senior vice 

president of marketing for Old World 

Industries, which is the producer, marketer 

and distributor of Peak’s DEF, BlueDEF, 

for heavy-duty and automotive 

applications. 

“Diesel exhaust fluid will have a positive 

impact on diesel engine fuel efficiency for 

fleets — it’s currently improving it as 

much as 5 percent — while meeting 

environmental concerns,” he said. 

The EPA mandated that all on-road 

diesel vehicles, from tractor-trailer to 

consumer trucks, manufactured after 

January 2010, must reduce NOx emissions, 

said Frank Cook, senior vice president and 

technical director for Old World Industries, 

who recently gave a presentation during a 

Peak press conference at AAPEX. A 

similar mandate for off-road vehicles will 

go into effect in 2014 and 2015. 

“As the years go by, the law will affect 

everything that runs on diesel and diesel 

exhaust fluid will become one of the 

biggest products in the U.S.,” he said. “It 

will be a 1.8 billion-gallon market at 

maturity, and it’ll be at every truck stop and 

everywhere diesel is sold — we’re really in 

the first inning of this nine-inning game.” 

Cook added it’s presently a 125 milliongallon 

market. 

Since 1994, the EPA has been making 

stiffer regulations on NOx emissions and 

diesel particulate matter, he said, and every 

few years the requirements become stricter, 

which manufacturers have met primarily 

by “tweaking” their engines, though now a 

different approach is needed that involves 

Hard-working 

agricultural applications 

demand heavy duty parts. 

NAPA Belts/Hose offers a complete line of belts for 

agricultural and lawn and garden equipment, in sizes and 

power ratings for almost any application. For heavy 

equipment such as tractors and harvesters, heavy duty and 

industrial belts provide long life, high reliability, strength ñ and 

OE fit, form and function. A full range of profiles is offered, 

including numerous types of V-belts, joined V-belts for multisheave 

drives, and specialty belts for backside idlers, 

low-clearance situations, high heat, shock resistance and 

other punishing circumstances. 

Discover NAPA Belts/Hose BladeRunner ® and PoweRated ® 

fractional-horsepower belts for lawn mowers, tillers, edgers, 

snow blowers and other light duty equipment used by 

homeowners, lawn professionals, golf courses, municipalities, 

large-scale agriculture and everything between. 

CONTACT: 

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Weasler Engineering • Pioneer Products 


VMMC’s ‘Training for the Future’ is set for March at Shoreline Community College 


Shoreline, Wash.—The 62nd annual 

Vehicle Maintenance Management 

Conference (VMMC) will be staged March 

26-28, at the Professional Automotive 

Training Center (PATC) on the campus of 

Shoreline Community College (SCC). The 

2013 theme is “Training for the Future.” 

VMMC is the premier West Coast 

educational and training conference for the 

fleet management industry and is managed 

by Washington State University’s 

Conference Management group. The 

conference manager coordinates with the 

VMMC board of trustees, comprised of 

more than 50 industry professionals from 

the Northwest and across the country, who 

determine timely classes and training 

sessions for the conference agenda. 

VMMC is geared for the following: fleet 

managers; mechanics and technicians; shop 

leads, managers, and supervisors; specialty 

equipment operators; automotive and heavyduty 

students; college instructors; industry 

trainers and product representatives; and 

independent repair shops and government 

agencies involved in all phases of fleet 

service. 

The non-profit event also features an 

indoor trade show at the PATC featuring 

fleet products, equipment, and services, as 

well as an outdoor heavy-duty exhibit 

showcasing specialized equipment. Snap-on 

will again host a Tech Challenge to test the 

skills of technicians. 

Sessions set for the 2013 VMMC include 

subjects ranging from hybrid vehicle service 

to filtration systems, and from probe 

diagnostics to Cummins engine systems. 

NASTF will expand to include more of service industry 

St. Johns, Fla.—The National 

Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF) 

Board of Directors has voted to reorganize 

its governance structure with the intent to 

attract broader support from the motor 

vehicle service industry. As NASTF sets 

out to amend its organization bylaws to 

reflect a more technical makeup of its 

leadership, the board has elected Charlie 

Gorman, CEO of the Equipment and Tool 

Institute (ETI), to be the interim chairman 

of NASTF for 2013. 

“NASTF plays an important role in the 

automotive service industry,” Gorman said, 

“and I am honored to serve as the interim 

chair for 2013. There is much work to do 

as we open up the board of director 

nominating process, transition to a selfsustaining 

funding model, and expand 

NASTF services to include more of the 

vehicle service industry. Our goal is to 

have everything in place by January 1, 

2014.” 

Among the several upgrades made by the 

NASTF board in 2012 are the hiring of 

Skip Potter as the organization’s first 

professional executive director, launch of a 

Technician Outreach initiative that moves 

the March 8 general meeting to the Vision 

Hi-Tech Training and Expo in Kansas City, 

and formalization of its management of the 

valuable NASTF Vehicle Security 

Professional Registry. 

“NASTF has come a long way since its 

conceptual creation in 2000,” said Skip 

Potter, NASTF executive director. “The 

board has taken huge steps in the past year 

to modernize and advance their 

organization. With them, I look forward to 

attracting more direct involvement in our 

leadership from both automakers and 

independent technicians.” n 

There are specific classes for supervisory 

personnel, managers, and parts specialists. 

An all-inclusive registration fee of $495 

(by March 6) includes all training materials, 

entry to all classes, lunches each day, and 

access to the exhibits. Special rates are 

available for students and one-day 

attendance. Participants can earn Continuing 

Education Units (CEUs) for attending 

VMMC. 

“This years’ agenda is one of our best 

ever,” said Gene Jakubczak, VMMC 

chairman and director of fleet services for 

the City of Spokane. “Presenters from major 

manufacturers and fleet professionals will be 

providing current information on a variety 

of fleet-oriented topics.” 

The award-winning PATC, ranked as 

one of the nation’s top automotive 

training facilities, offers a multitude of 

small and large classrooms for the dozens 

of VMMC sessions. It also has hands-on 

training areas for those VMMC classes 

requiring more than just classroom 

instruction. 

For complete class offerings and 

registration information, visit 

cm.wsu.edu/vmmc, or contact Emily 

Houg, conference coordinator, at 

ehoug@wsu.edu. n 


Elm St 

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Classic Industries evolves with changing appetite for American restorations 

Classic Industries’ Merchandising 

Director Ray Yager (l.) and Sales 

Manager Brian Levine flank a ’56 Chevy 

Bel Air called “Open Air” in their 

Huntington Beach showroom. The car 

is built with restoration and modern 

performance parts they sell. 

Classic and marketing director 

for OER, said. “We happen to 

be in the midst of it all.” 

Long known for mail-order 

GM-licensed parts, Leonard 

built his business in the late ’70s 

with a focus on the classic GM 

hobbyist, offering hard-to-find 

restoration parts for Camaros. 

The mail-order catalog business 

has expanded to include eight 

titles: Camaro, Generation V 

Camaro, Firebird/Trans Am, 

Nova/Chevy II, Chevy Impala/full-size 

models, Chevrolet GMC Truck, 1955-57 

Chevrolet, and now Mopar. 

Classic still does the majority of its 

business through the catalogs, which are 

mailed to lists of classic-car owners, he 

said. 

“We were looking for an opportunity 

to expand,” Yager said, referring to the 

decision to cater to classic Mopar 

customers, who constitute a substantial 

enthusiast base. These Mopar parts 

include ’60-’76 Dodge and Plymouth A-, 

B-, and E-body models. 

“Mopar enthusiasts are very dedicated 

and loyal to the brand, but they had 

always been underserved,” Leonard said. 

“Now Mopar enthusiasts have everything 

they need to keep their classics on the 

road.” 

Classic is authorized by Chrysler to sell 

licensed Mopar restoration parts, Yager 

said, and has become one of the largest 

Mopar-licensed suppliers for non-lifestyle 

merchandise. 


WE APOLOGIZE FOR THE FUTURE TRAFFIC JAM 

by Michael Anderson 

Huntington Beach, Calif.—A scarletand-gray 

’56 Chevy Bel Air convertible 

adorns the showroom of Classic Industries, 

a supplier of restoration and performance 

parts. Save for the classic exterior, the car 

dubbed “Open Air” is constructed with a 

new chassis, powertrain, and parts, an 

embodiment of what Owner Jeff Leonard 

offers his customers through Classic 

Industries for the last 35 years, and his 

manufacturing label, Original Equipment 

Reproduction (OER). 

The commissioned build that was 

featured at SEMA represents the current 

trend of “auto crossing,” which combines 

classic styling with new technology, said 

Brian Levine, sales manager for Classic 

and OER. The Open Air project was built 

in collaboration with Dan Woods and his 

crew from the TV show “Chop, Cut, 

Rebuild,” and will be featured in the 

coming season on Speed TV, he added. 

“The team worked very hard to create 

this convertible and we are very proud to 

debut the end result,” said Leonard, Classic 

Industries’ CEO. “This project showcases 

the limitless possibilities available to 

enthusiasts using our catalog of Tri-Five 

restoration products.” 

Many enthusiasts desire a modern 

suspension and high horsepower, Levine 

said, pointing out that the Open Air is built 

on an Art Morrison chassis and powered by 

a supercharged genuine GM LSA engine. 

“The Challenger, Camaro, and Mustangs 

were always built for speed,” Levine said. 

“All that new technology has made its way 

into the modern muscle cars. People don’t 

want to just restore cars anymore, they 

want to drive them.” 

Mail-order heritage 

“California is the hub for classic cars,” 

Ray Yager, merchandising director for 

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Classic Industries evolves with changing appetite for American restorations 


“We focus on obsolete restoration parts 

that can’t be found in parts stores or 

dealerships,” Yager said. Classic also 

distributes many well-known 

performance brands, such as OER, 

Edelbrock, B&M, Hurst, Flowmaster, 

Hooker, and more. 

Manufactured and marketed 

under OER label 

Headquartered in Westminster, Classic 

Industries’ subsidiary, OER, was founded 

to meet the need for “spot-on” accurate 

GM reproduction parts, Yager said. 

Classic Industries is the largest supplier 

of new OER parts, Yager said, which are 

also sold through independent distribution 

in the U.S. 

While many of these parts are 

manufactured overseas, he said, some are 

still are made domestically using original 

machines from tier one suppliers who 

manufactured GM’s parts. The domestic 

reproductions carry the “Made in the 

U.S.A.” label in each of the catalogs. 

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Advantage Plus 

wholesale program 

Looking beyond the DIY 

enthusiast customer base, Yager 

said Classic created its 

“Advantage Plus” wholesale 

dealer program a few years ago. 

“It’s geared toward the trade,” he 

said. “Restoration shops, 

bodyshops, and upholstery shops 

— those building and restoring 

cars.” 

Advantage Plus customers have 

access to a broader selection of 

parts, Yager said, with volume 

discounts. No minimum orders 

are necessary, he said. Items such as 

weather stripping can be purchased in 

Builder Craig Chaffers grinds an axle for the 

“Open Air” build, a collaboration between Dan 

Woods, host of the TV show “Chop, Cut, 

Rebuild,” and Classic Industries. 

Diamond Bar, Calif.—Applications for 

automotive scholarships are now 

available through the SEMA Memorial 

Scholarship Fund (SMSF) at 

www.sema.org/scholarships. Students 

preparing for careers in the auto or auto 

parts industries may be eligible for 

financial awards of up to $5,000. 

The $5,000 Top Student award marks 

an increase from the award’s previous 

amount of $4,000. Similarly, scholarships 

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Donna Bursee, Classic Industries’ warehouse 

manager, oversees more than 70 people and 

100,000 SKUs. Bursee says when she began 

working for classic 25 years ago there were only 

15 warehouse employees. 

Automotive scholarship 

applications now available 

bulk, for example, offering significant 

discounts, he said. 

“Some products are designed as 

bolt-on, with the DIY customer in 

mind,” he said, while other “rough” 

parts require a higher level of 

metalworking and fabrication 

during installation. 

There is a difference, he said, 

between an exact replica 

replacement panel or a similar 

replacement. “The size of the piece 

and level of stamping detail dictates 

the price,” Yager said. “We offer it 

all and let the customer make the 

choice based on budget or 

preference.” n 

for students attending four-year programs 

are up from $2,000 to $3,000, and awards 

for students attending two-year programs 

increased from $1,000 to $2,000. 

Unlike financial aid and student loans, 

the SEMA Memorial Scholarship is a 

one-time award that does not have to be 

paid back. Awards are granted to eligible 

applicants based on academic 

achievements, work experience, 

community involvement, essay content, 

and recommendations. Students may reapply 

each year, provided that they still 

meet the eligibility criteria. 

A loan forgiveness award is also 

available to recent graduates who are 

working for SEMA-member companies 

and paying off existing student loans. 

Details and applications for both the 

scholarship and the loan-forgiveness 

awards are available at 

www.sema.org/scholarships. 

The application deadline for all SMSF 

awards is March 29. For additional 

details, visit www.sema.org/scholarships 

or contact Juliet Marshall at 

julietm@sema.org. n 


Collision Repair 

Varied career helps maintain 

award-winning Terry’s Kustom 

by John Yoswick 

Wilsonville, Ore.—As with any business, 

Terry Morris said building, restoring or 

customizing classic cars and hot rods is not 

without its challenges. But on the upside, he 

said, it’s not nearly as impacted by swings in 

the economy. 

“Even when the economy is bad, 

people have their dreams and the 

vehicles that make them feel good that 

they relate to their past,” said Morris, 

who along with his wife, Laurie, owns 

and operates Terry’s Kustom Auto. 

“They still want to get those vehicles 

done because it’s something tangible, 

something they can hold onto. Quite 

often they’re an investment, and 

they’re not going to lose as much 

money on them as they do in the stock 

market. They have something they 

can enjoy and show their friends. It’s a 

passion.” 

Morris clearly understands that 

passion. He built his first Model T roadster 

at 14, working in his school’s metal shop 

and on his back patio. Though his career has 

been varied, the one constant has been the 

automobile. He opened Terry’s Kustom 

Auto, originally in Sherwood, Ore., in 1976. 

In recent years it’s been a full-time business 

with 2-4 employees – based more, he said, 

This 1932 Ford three-window coupe built 

from the ground up over 2-1/2 years 

earned Terry’s Kustom Auto 13 awards at 

three car shows last year. 

on the availability of the right talent for the 

work than the availability of the work itself. 

But earlier it was at times a part-time 

business, as Morris did other work: 

managing the body shop at a local Chevrolet 

dealership and, for 18 years, doing specialty 

car appraising and other work for The 

Hartford and Safeco insurance companies. 

In the 1970s and 1980s, Morris said, 

Terry’s Kustom did a lot of work on custom 

vans: graphics, candies, and murals. The 

workload gradually shifted toward graymarket 

cars from Europe – Aston Martins 

and Jaguars – along with restorations, 

including several Cobras. 

Morris later helped launch the SoCal 

Speed Shop now in Tualatin, and then about 

seven years ago moved Terry’s Kustom, a 

5,700-square-foot facility, into its current 

location. The front office is ringed with 

photos of the vehicles he’s worked on and 

the awards those vehicles have won, and is 

stocked with specialty parts, such as Vintage 

Air a/c units, Pete and Jake's Hot Rod Parts, 

Laurie and Terry Morris have operated Terry’s 

Kustom Auto for more than four decades. He 

says the shop does virtually all work in-house 

except for upholstery. 

Centech electronics and Flaming River 

steering components, for which the 

company is a distributor. 

But it’s clearly in the back of the shop 

where Morris feels most at home, close to 

the AFC heated downdraft spraybooth and 

among the 10 or so vehicles usually in 

process at the shop. The mix in the shop on a 

recent day was pretty typical, Morris said: a 

1931 Model A roadster in for repairs after a 

fairly significant front-end collision; a 1928 

Ford being built for a customer from 

Longview, Wash., who saw Morris’ work at 

the Portland Roadster Show; a 1962 

Mercedes-Benz 220SE European 

convertible in for a complete restoration; and 

a 1973 Corvette owned by a local film 

producer who “wants the car new.” 

“That means everything done to National 

Corvette Restorers Society specs,” Morris 

said. “Every fastener, every hose, everything 

is numbers-matching and the proper color. 

It’s a very difficult undertaking, all the way 

down to when you two-tone it it has to be a 

fuzzy line. Everything about this car, as 

beautiful or ugly as it is, is the way it was in 

1973.” 

But clearly the centerpiece for Morris is a 

1932 Ford three-window coupe that he spent 

2-1/2 years building from the ground up. 

“The owner told us to build the best car 

that we could build,” Morris said. “It 

basically has all the options that a Lexus 

would have: back-up camera, navigation 

system, fuel injection, heated leather seats, 

cruise control, stainless independent 

suspension. The owner even knows when 

I’m working on it because the alarm system 


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Varied career maintains award-winning Terry’s Kustom 

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has motion detection and it pings his cell 

phone. We debuted the car at the 

Sacramento Autorama and ended up 

receiving five awards, including outstanding 

color, engineering, and chassis. Then we 

went to Boise and took two awards. From 

there we went to the Portland Roadster 

Show where we took six awards last year, 

including the World Cup of Hot Rodding. It 

was the first time we could build a car of 

that caliber, and that the owners allowed us 

to do that.” 

Morris said he met with the owner of the 

vehicle weekly throughout the process, and 

prefers to have customers involved that way. 

“All these vehicles become a larger 

project than first anticipated, but when the 

customer is there all the time and is 

contacted weekly, they know everything that 

you’re working with,” Morris said. “They 

have an idea of just what condition their 

vehicle is in, and the reasons that you need 

to correct the problems with their vehicle as 

you go along. They see that you have 

disassembled and reassembled and fitted 

their car many, many times. We also like to 

have them enthused — because a part of us 

goes into these cars, too.” 

Morris said that the shop does virtually all 

work in-house except for upholstery, and 

that he has used PPG, R-M and House of 

Kolor paints for more than 40 years. Perhaps 

in part because the shop does some 

insurance collision work on specialty 

vehicles, Morris said he tries to create paint 

effects using factory colors so the vehicle is 

less likely to need to be entirely refinished 

when there is minor damage. 

“The cars we’ve been consistent showwinners 

with, with rare exception, have all 

been factory paints that we’ve altered,” he 

said. 

As he looks to the future, Morris said 

he’d like more projects like the 1932 Ford 

coupe. 

“I want to get to a point where I’m scaled 

down somewhat in the number of vehicles 

but concentrated on building that caliber of 

vehicle more often,” he said. n 

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Prosser, Wash.—The newly resurrected 

Idaho Autobody Craftsman Association 

(IACA) officially joined as an affiliate of the 

Society of Collision Repair Specialists 

(SCRS) during a member meeting in Boise, 

Idaho, recently. The affiliation, and vibrant 

meeting, is indicative of the IACA’s 

rejuvenation under strong new leadership. 

A handful of repairers, including current 

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President Matt Thornton, began discussing 

the prospects of revitalizing IACA after the 

association remained dormant for nearly a 

decade. After an initial organizational 

meeting in August, which attracted more 

than 30 repairers and representatives of 

businesses that support repairers, a second 

more formal meeting took place in 

November with almost 60 in attendance. 

The meeting featured a presentation by 

Bruce Halcro, chairman of the Montana 

Collision Repair Specialists (MCRS), who 

spoke to the trials, tribulations, and 

successes faced by his neighboring 

statewide association, and offered the 

helpful guidance of experience earned 

through years representing their similar local 

industry in Montana. Following Halcro, 

SCRS Executive Director Aaron 

Schulenburg covered a number of industryrelated 

topics from an inspirational message 

encouraging active involvement and 

participation in the association to an 

overview of tools, resources, and issues 

being addressed by SCRS. Topics ranged 

from the benefit of resources such as the 

Database Enhancement Gateway (DEG) and 

SCRS Guide to Complete Repair Planning, 

to the emergence of insurance-mandated 

parts procurement programs and the effort 

by the industry to embrace OEM-published 

repair procedures as the standard of collision 

repair work. 

“The turnout was great and showed the 

interest repairers in our state had regarding 

getting together and organizing to reinforce 

and protect the best interests of our 

industry,” Thornton said. “We’re in Boise, 

which is in southern Idaho, and people in 

the eastern and northern part of the state 

had to drive hours to get here, but they did. 

We also got a nice show of support from 

several members of the Montana Collision 

Repair Specialists, another SCRS affiliate, 

whose representatives drove close to nine 

hours to be there.” 

The presence of the Montana association 

was significant in that the group has been 

effective on the legislative front in their 

state, an accomplishment IACA wishes to 

parallel in Idaho and is making its primary 

focus in the upcoming months. “We have 

two or three legislative bills on which we 

want to gain traction, including an antisteering 

law with some teeth in it,” Thornton 

said. “The Montana Collision Repair 

Specialists have generously offered to share 

their strategies and expertise in this area, 

which will save us a ton of time and help us 

be effective right out of the gate. Next spring 

we plan to have a multi-day legislative 

workshop featuring a lobbyist that can give 

us some additional insight in how to get 

things done at the state capitol.” 

Gaining knowledge and expertise is a core 

reason IACA decided to become an SCRS 

affiliate. “They have a lot to offer as an 

informational source because they are so 

active in so many different areas,” Thornton 

said. “In addition, they will provide us a 

national presence that is very valuable. That 

being said, the biggest reason our members 

want to be part of SCRS is they are the only 

national organization that holds the interests 

of collision repairers at heart. That means a 

lot to us as collision repair business 

owners.” 

As IACA begins a period of what is sure 

to be impressive growth and development, 

SCRS looks forward to assisting in any way 

they can. “The re-emergence of IACA is 

indicative of a wave of collision repair 

activism rising in the face of mounting 

economic and market pressures,” 

Schulenburg said. n 


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Parts & People February 2013 Page C-1

Insufficiently trained techs in welding are in ‘alarming numbers’ 

by John Yoswick 

Hoffman Estates, Ill.—Fewer than half 

of technicians in the collision repair 

industry who are regularly welding have 

been recently trained or tested in the skill, 

according to statistics cited by I-CAR. 

Those stats begin with U.S. Bureau of 

Labor numbers 

that peg the total 

number of 

production 

employees in the 

industry at 

169,700. 

“We estimate 

that about 30 

Jeff Peevy, of I-CAR, 

estimates only 29,000 

of the 68,000 collision 

repair technicians who 

are regularly welding 

have had recent 

welding training or 

testing from I-CAR. 

percent of those 

production 

employees 

handle steel 

structural 

repairs, and 

another 10 

percent are doing 

non-structural,” Jeff Peevy, senior 

director of field operations for I-CAR, 

said. “So conservatively, about 40 percent 

of those production employees, or about 

68,000 technicians, are welding on a 

regular basis.” 

Compare that, Peevy said, to 29,000, 

which is the approximate number of 

technicians that I-CAR, as the primary 

source of welding training and testing for 

the industry, knows have had recent 

welding training or qualification testing. 

“So about 40,000 of those who weld on 

a regular basis in 

our industry 

potentially are 

untrained and 

could potentially 

not be welding 

properly,” Peevy 

said. “These are 

alarming 

numbers.” 

Randy May, I-CAR’s Peevy 

director of 

development for the 

acknowledges 

insurance segment, there is welding 

says I-CAR is training 

concerned that the available from 

state of welding in the 

industry doesn’t live up 

sources other 

to I-CAR’s vision of than I-CAR, but 

every technician having not to an extent 

the necessary that it “affects 

knowledge. 

the industry on a 

large scale.” 

Randy May, I-CAR’s director of 

development for the insurance segment, 

said I-CAR is highlighting its concerns 

about welding within the industry as part 

of the training organization’s stated vision 

of ensuring “every person in the collision 

industry has the necessary knowledge and 

skills relevant to their position to achieve 

a complete and safe repair.” 

“That’s what guides I-CAR’s activities 

every day,” May said. “And I-CAR’s 

view right now is that welding within the 

industry is not consistent with that 

vision.” 

“So much so that we can no longer be 

silent,” Peevy added. “We need to start a 

dialogue about what we can do about it as 

an industry.” 

Required elements 

I-CAR’s experience with testing of 

technician welding capabilities in the 

industry gives it ample reason to be 

raising concerns, Peevy and others 

connected with the training organization 

say. Some years ago when I-CAR first 

began offering welding qualification 

testing, it allowed experienced 

technicians to take the hands-on testing 

without requiring them to complete I- 

CAR welding training first. Peevy said 

I-CAR found that fewer than one-third of 

technicians were passing the test, which led 

I-CAR to mandate training prior to testing. 

(The percentage of those passing the test is 

now in the high 90s, Peevy said.) 

Peevy said there are three elements that 

have to come together to ensure proper 

welding is being done in a collision repair 

shop. The first is having the necessary 

infrastructure. As welders have grown 

increasingly sophisticated in order to deal 

with new steels 

and structures of 

vehicles, Peevy 

said, the 

electrical 

systems in shops 

have not always 

kept pace to 

adequately 

power those 

Johnny Dickerson, of 

I-CAR, says shops 

should ensure that 

technicians have what 

they need to see well 

enough to weld, such 

as good lighting and 

possibly welding 

helmets with 

magnifying lenses. 

welders. 

“We’ve seen 

instances where 

a shop is wired 

to support the 

amperage loads 

and needs for 

one welder, but 

any time there 

are two welders 

going at the same time, the amperage 

isn’t sufficient,” Peevy said. 

Johnny Dickerson, a performance 

testing coordinator with I-CAR, said 

good shop lighting is also part of 

infrastructure needed for proper welding. 

“Few of us,” Dickerson said, “can see as 

well as we did when we were 20 years 

old. Sometimes we need a little help. We 

may need some better lighting. We need a 

different type of welding helmet and 

some magnifying lenses.” 

The second element needed for proper 

welding is well-maintained equipment. 

Again, as I-CAR offers its hands-on 

welding testing in shops, it has seen 

welders that are shorting out, or that have 

welding tips that are burned-out or 

misaligned, Peevy said. 

The third, and perhaps most critical 

necessity, for proper welding, Peevy said, 

is knowledgeable and skilled technicians 

who understand the basic principles of 

welding and how to use and maintain the 

welding equipment in the shop. Using 

sample welds from its testing program, 

Peevy offers example after example of 

poor welds resulting from such problems 

as too limited penetration or overheating 

of the metal, which weakens it. He uses 

destructive testing to show how easily 

improper welds can be broken. 

“There’s very little doubt there’s a lot 

of compromised strength here,” he said. 

“This is not just something that is rare. 

We see this as a common thing.” 

Making it mandatory 

Peevy said auto manufacturers are 

aware of the critical need for their 

dealerships or certified shops to have the 

elements in place for proper welding, and 

are increasingly recommending or 

requiring I-CAR 

welding training 

and testing. I- 

CAR is urging 

insurers to do the 

same. 

Clifton 

Meaders is a 

claims supervisor 

with the 

Clifton Meaders, of the 

California State 

California State Automobile 

Automobile 

Association 

Association (CSAA), (CSAA), which 

says his company 

requires every 

requires every 

technician welding on technician 

vehicles at its direct welding on 

repair shops to have vehicles at its 

passed at least one of 

I-CAR’s welding 

direct repair 

qualification tests. shops (DRPs) to 

have passed at 

least one of I-CAR’s welding 

qualification tests. (At least one 

technician at each shop must have passed 

I-CAR’s more advanced structural steel 

parts welding qualification testing.) 

Meaders has also administered about 200 

such tests himself, and said only eight 

technicians have done all eight welds 

required under the testing correctly the 

first time. Meaders thinks more insurers 

should set higher welding requirements 

for their DRP shops. 

“It’s the right thing to do, and in 

today’s litigious society, it is also the 

smart thing to do for the business,” 

Meaders said. “When you refer someone 

to a shop, you’re taking on some liability 

for that.” 

Peevy said I-CAR has the infrastructure 

in place to conduct more welding training 

and testing than it has seen demand for. It 

was able to perform 331 such tests around 

the country on a single Saturday, for 

example. He said the testing is done in 

shops, whenever possible using the 

equipment and work environment in 

which the technician actually performs 

welding during repairs. And as a 

nonprofit, Peevy said, I-CAR will, when 

necessary, bring testing into a smaller 

market even at a loss as part of its 

mission and vision of ensuring every 

technician has the knowledge and skills 

needed. 

“This is, as an industry, something we 

collectively need to work on,” Peevy 

said. n 

Page C-2 February 2013 Parts & People www.partsandpeople.com

Parts & People Insert




Chip talks a little trash 

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© 2013 BASF Corporation 

Parts & People February 2013 Page C-3

Collision Tool & Equipment Product Notes 

compiled by Jay Sicht 

Welding Safety Interactive Guide 

Cleveland—Lincoln Electric’s Welding 

Safety Interactive Guide converts its 

Welding Safety Interactive DVD into an 

online format that is easily accessible and 

viewable on computers, tablets, and mobile 

phones. Designed to educate arc welders 

about potential arc welding safety hazards 

and the safe practices they should follow, the 

guide offers information on a wide variety 

of topics, including how to avoid electric 

shock, prevent fire and explosions, and 

choose appropriate personal protection 

The new Snap-on Welding Creeper is ideal 

for metal fabrication jobs and will withstand 

slag and spatter burns when welding or 

cutting. 

Technical Bulletin 117, Section E, and 

UFAC Class 1 for flammability. 

• Fire-retardant, heavy-duty 5/8-inch thick 

plywood and high-density foam padding 

for comfort. 

• 16-gauge, ¾-inch square-tube steel frame 

is designed with ample shoulder clearance. 

Heavy-Duty Sanders and Polishers 

Rock Hill, S.C.—Chicago Pneumatic 

(www.cp.com) has developed its newest 

additions to its heavy-duty sanders and 

polishers, which the company says are 

designed with powerful motors for 

productivity on any job. The CP7265S and 

CP7265P are vertical, with a muffled handle 

exhaust to vent air away from the work 

surface. The two-handed sander/polisher 

maximizes operator comfort and also 

features a speed control switch. The 

CP7269S and CP7269P are angled with 

hardened and ground spiral bevel gears, 

which the company says provide for low 

vibration and extreme durability for weldsmoothing 

and paint and rust removal. 

broken part is stitched, the cosmetic repair 

and refinishing can be completed on the 

outside of the part. 

Portable Vehicle Lifts 

Walled Lake, Mich.—Herkules 

Equipment Corp. (www.herkules.us) offers 

portable vehicle lifts, providing convenience 

for collision repair shops. The company 

says it K900P, one of its most popular lifts, 

is equipped with a hitch, handle, and wheels, 

which allows a technician to easily move the 

lift from the prep area to the spray booth or 

to wherever the lift is needed. The lift, 

which uses Herkules Air Bag technology, is 

ready to operate after an easy hookup to an 

air line and is safe to use inside paint booths 

because there is no possibility of any 

contaminants ruining a paint job. 

Lincoln Electric’s Welding Safety Interactive 

Guide has been converted to an online 

format that is easily accessible and viewable 

on computers, tablets, and mobile phones. 

equipment. The guide also provides safety 

insights from the American Welding Society 

(AWS) and the Occupational Safety and 

Health Administration (OSHA). The 

program’s content is designed to be 

understood by welders at all experience 

levels. The new online guide is compatible 

with iPad, iPhone, and Android technology. 

To access the Welding Safety Interactive 

Guide, visit www.lincolnelectric.com. 

Welding Creeper 

Kenosha, Wis.—The new Snap-on 

(www.snapon.com) Welding Creeper is 

designed for safety as well as comfort, the 

company says. 

Its features and benefits include: 

• Westex Indura fabric offers resistance to 

flash fire, molten metal, and welding 

exposures. 

• Fabric and foam pad meets California 

File Belt Spot Weld Sander 

St. Paul, Minn.–3M (www.3Mcollision 

.com) has introduced its File Belt Tool to 

speed up the task of removing spot welds 

from today’s high-strength steel automotive 

panels. The traditional method of using 

specialized drill bits to separate panels 

during disassembly is time-consuming, 

expensive, and challenging for the 

technician. The 3M Green Corps File Belt 

is a quicker and cheaper alternative to 

drilling, a 3M spokesperson said, with a 

longlasting 

abrasive 

surface 

designed 

for spot 

weld 

removal 

as well as 

grinding 

in other 

tight 

areas. 

The 3M File Belt tool replaces 

the time-consuming and 

expensive practice of drilling 

out spot welds. 

Also available is the Scotch-Brite Duraflex 

File Belt that can be used for the removal of 

window urethane and seam sealer as well as 

weld preparation and cleanup applications. 

Product Note Submissions 

If you have new products and would like them 

considered for our PRODUCT NOTES pages, 

please send your product information to 

jay.sicht@partsandpeople.com 

Six monthy regional print editions serving 

the automotive parts &service industry. 

Chicago Pneumatic has introduced its 

newest heavy-duty sanders and polishers 

designed with powerful motors to tackle 

any job. 

Plastic Repair System 

Manteca, Calif.—Motor Guard 

(www.motorguard.com) introduced its 

newest addition to its line of U.S.-made 

automotive body repair tools, the Magna- 

Stitcher Plastic Repair System (Model 

MS-2500). The MS-2500 is a complete unit 

with all the power and accessories needed 

for structural repair of plastic parts and 

features a powerful work light in the gun to 

illuminate out-of-the-way areas. The 

Magna-Stitcher system welds a rigid 

stainless-steel 

stake into the 

surface of the 

plastic — 

resulting in a 

permanent repair 

of the crack — 

and comes with 

an assortment of 

Magna-Stakes. 

The system can 

be used to repair 

bumpers, 

fascias, spoilers, 

headlamps, 

radiator 

brackets, interior 

and underbody 

components, 

wheel wells, 

panel mounting 

tabs, and any 

thermoplastic 

part. Once the 

back of the 

Motor Guard has 

introduced its Magna- 

Stitcher Plastic Repair 

System for structural 

repair of plastic parts. 

The MS-2500 features 

a powerful work light in 

the gun to illuminate 

out-of-the-way areas 

and comes with an 

assortment of Magna- 

Stakes. 

Features of the K900P lift include adjustable 

support arms; safety stops; air release valve; 

hitch, handle, and wheels; rubber blocks; 

easy controls; 6,000 lb. capacity; 3.6” 

lowered; 29” raised; required 60-120 PSI. 

Chief EZ Liner Express 

Tower Extension 

Madison, Ind.—Chief Automotive 

Technologies (www.chiefautomotive.com) 

has introduced a new tower extension 

accessory that can make the EZ Liner 

Express collision repair system even more 

versatile. Chief’s tower extension adds 

another 18 inches of clearance between the 

frame rack’s tower and the vehicle being 

repaired to create better pulling angles and 

allow the rack to be used to repair larger 

vehicles. It removes obstructions and makes 

working on all vehicles easier for 

technicians. The 18-inch tower extension 

attaches to the deck in 10 different locations, 

creating a true 360-degree repair system. 

When not in use, the extension can be 

removed from the tower assembly for better 

storage. n 

Chief’s tower extension for its EZ Liner 

Express enhances its ability to repair larger 

vehicles. 

Page C-4 February 2013 Parts & People www.partsandpeople.com

Eastwood Company launches 

new restoration products 

by Jay Sicht 

Las Vegas—The Eastwood Company, 

which has counted automotive restoration 

hobbyists as its core customers since its 

start in 1978, recently 

introduced several new tools, 

pieces of equipment, and other 

products that professional 

shops will also find useful in 

their restorations. 

Three attachments used in 

metal fabrication and collision 

repair, in particular, are 

proving popular with 

professionals and hobbyists 

alike, said Nick Capinski, 

senior content and engagement 

marketing manager for 

Eastwood. 

“The spot weld kit allows 

you to replicate the look and 

strength of factory OEM spot 

welds using your MIG welder 

instead of buying a resistance 

spot welder, which is expensive,” 

Capinski said. “The MIG stud weld kit 

allows you to weld pins on a dented body 

panel and comes with a slide hammer. 

Instead of buying a stud gun, which costs 

several hundred dollars, this is $100.” 

For the spot weld kit, a replacement 

MIG gun nozzle with standoff “ears” 

places the gun at the proper distance from 

the metal panel, and the pliers not only 

provide clamping force but have their 

jaws spaced for perfect alignment with the 

nozzle and for OEM-looking spacing of 

the spot welds, Capinski said. For 110- 

volt welders, he said, the center of the 

weld must be drilled to get proper 

penetration, while this step is not 

necessary with 220-volt welders. 

The 13928 stud welding kit includes a 

slide hammer, draw pins, and an 

attachment that clamps on over the 

original MIG nozzle and uses the MIG 

welder’s wire to weld the draw pin to the 

The Eastwood Company’s Versa Cut 60 and TIG 200 

are popular pieces of equipment with fabricators. 

panel to pull dents, Capinski said. 

The Versa Cut plasma cutting guide 

works with most plasma cutters to 

accurately cut straight lines and perfect 

The Versa Cut plasma-cutting guide from The 

Eastwood Company allows a metal fabricator to use 

his plasma cutter to cut straight lines or perfect circles 

from 3-3/4 inches to 17 inches in diameter. 

circles from 3-3/4 inches to 17 inches in 

diameter, Capinski said, adding that users 

can either use a spring-loaded center 

punch to provide a pivot point or can drill 

through the center of the circle and insert a 

screw into the pivot point of the 

attachment. The design of the attachment 

allows it to be self-centering, he said. 

The company’s new TIG 200 welder 

and 220-volt Versa Cut 60 plasma cutter 

are popular pieces of equipment for 

fabricators, Capinski said, and along with 

the new accessories were a hit at the 

company’s booth at the 2012 SEMA 

Show. 

“The Versa Cut 60 will do up to 7/8 inch 

material in a single pass. It’s a real 

workhorse,” he said, adding that its pilot 

arc system allows an arc to be struck 

instantly even on rusty metal or expanded 

metal. The cutter can be used on steel, 

stainless steel, and aluminum as thin as 24 

gauge, he said. 

Innovation driven by 

Eastwood employees’ 

hobbies 

Eastwood’s product 

innovation is driven by 

enthusiasts looking for a 

solution to a problem, 

Capinski said. 

“Often, how a new product 

idea comes up is we are car 

people, and as we work on 

different projects we develop 

ideas for better methods,” 

Capinski said. “Or, ‘I’m 


 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Eastwood Company launches new restoration products 


trying to solve this problem’ and we’ll 

come up with a solution. One of our guys 

— Matt Murray, who does social media 

— was working on a 1950 Dodge pickup 

and put it on an S10 chassis. He likes 

things long and low, and instead of 

shortening the frame to fit the bed, he 

decided, ‘I’m going to keep the long bed 

The Eastwood Company’s spot weld kit includes 

pliers with jaw spacing designed to mimic the OEM 

spot weld appearance, while a replacement MIG 

nozzle has ears designed for proper weld 

penetration. 

Battery Racks 

Bumper Racks 

frame and stretch the bed.’ He added 10 

to 12 inches to the bed. He needed to 

come up with a way to recreate the 

corrugated panels of the Dodge bed, and 

we have a large industrial brake in our 

R&D facility that could not come up with 

a tight enough joggle in it.” 

Capinski said an Eastwood product 

engineer was helping Murray with the 

project and quickly designed a metal 

brake, now in the Eastwood 

catalog, with a removable face 

that allows a joggle of a mere 

half inch. 

“It’s nice and small,” Capinski 

said. “It can be bench-mounted 

or you can throw it in a vise. If 

space is at a premium, you can 

throw it under the workbench 

and pull it out when you need it.” 

New specialty coatings introduced 

About a year ago, Eastwood 

introduced its internal frame 

coating, which consists of a rustneutralizing 

coating in an aerosol can and 

a long extension wand with a conical 

nozzle to allow application within boxed 

frame sections. That proved popular, and 

the company also recently introduced the 

same product in quart cans for 

professionals using Schutz-type guns. 

Eastwood’s self-etch weld-through 

primer — in contrast to zinc-based and 

copper-based weld-through primers — 

can be topcoated with other primers or 

paint, Capinski said. The company’s new 

Collision Repair Training Notes 

I-CAR Training Schedule 

For more information on registration 

and class times, call 800-422-7872 or 

visit www.i-car.com. 

Hannah Dealer Group- 

Vancouver, Wash. 

• Feb. 4-Plastic and Composite Repair 

• Feb. 6-Steering and Suspension 

Damage Analysis 

• Feb. 20-Vehicle Technology and 

Trends 2010 

• Feb. 25-Hazardous Materials, Personal 

Safety, and Refinish Safety 

• Feb. 27-Collision Repair for Select 

High Volume Vehicles 

• Mar. 4-Collision Repair for Toyota, 

Lexus, and Scion Vehicles 

Lake Washington Technical 

College-Kirkland, Wash. 



• Feb. 7-Steel Unitized Structures 

Technologies and Repair 

• Feb. 12-Suspension Systems 

• Feb. 19-Rack and Pinion and 

Parallelogram Steering Systems 

• Feb. 25-Automotive Foams 

• Mar. 4-Recycled Parts for Collision 

Repair 

Wesco Autobody Supply- 

Mountlake Terrace, Wash. 

• Feb. 5-Damage Analysis of Advanced 

Automotive Systems 


• Feb. 14-Adhesive Bonding 

• Feb. 19-Electric and Electric Hybrid 

Vehicles 

• Feb. 21-Hybrid Electric and 

Alternative Fuel Vehicles 


• Feb. 26-Structural Straightening Steel 

• Mar. 7-Adhesive Bonding 

Clackamas Community College- 

Oregon City, Ore. 

• Feb. 5-Electrical Circuits and 

DVOM Usage 

• Feb. 12-Squeeze-Type Resistance Spot 

Welding 

Rubberized Encapsulator is an 

undercoating that does not require surface 

rust to be removed, he said. 

“With most rubberized undercoating, if 

you ever watch it dry, you can see it 

bubble up as it dries, which can provide 

pockets for rust to start,” he said. “Our 

Rubberized Encapsulator goes on totally 

flat and seals the rust. It passes a 1,000- 

hour salt-spray test, which is comparable 

to a catalyzed finish with a onecomponent 

product.” n 

• Feb. 19-Cosmetic Straightening 

Aluminum 

• Feb. 21-Mechanical Systems Analysis 

• Feb. 26-Wheel Alignment and 

Diagnostic Angles 

• Mar. 5-Color Theory, Application, 

Tinting, and Blending 

Renton Technical College- 

Renton, Wash. 

• Feb. 6-Waterborne Products, Systems, 

and Application 



• Feb. 20-Damage Analysis of Advanced 

Automotive Systems 

• Mar. 4-Adhesive Bonding 

Bellingham Technical College- 

Bellingham, Wash. 

• Feb. 6-Mechanical Systems Analysis 

• Feb. 19-Waterborne Products, Systems, 

and Application 

• Feb. 20-Steering and Suspension 

Damage Analysis 

Double Tree Inn-Seattle 

• Mar. 1-Aluminum Intensive Vehicle 

Repairs 

• Mar. 1-Vehicle Technology and 

Trends 2013 

• Mar. 2-Squeeze-Type Resistance Spot 

Welding 

PPG Training Schedule 

For more information, contact the 

local PPG or Nexa Autocolor distributor 

or territory manager or visit 

www.ppgrefinish.com. 

Seattle Business Development 

Center-Kent, Wash. 

• Feb. 1-PPG Conversion – Envirobase HP 

• Feb. 5-6-PPG Certification – Deltron 

• Feb. 8-PPG Conversion – Envirobase HP 

• Feb. 18-Nexa Conversion – Aquabase Plus 

• Feb. 20-21-PPG Color – Envirobase HP 

• Feb. 26-27-PPG Color – Envirobase HP 

• Mar. 1 or 4-PPG Conversion – 

Envirobase HP 

• Mar. 6-PPG Recertification – 

Envirobase HP n 


Don’t dent your rep. 

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When Mercedes-Benz owners depend on you for quality collision 

repair work, using or recommending non-genuine parts can 

damage your credibility. 

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precisely to original model specifi cations, you can meet the 

superior standards your customers expect. 

So, avoid making any risky moves and instead rely on Genuine 

Mercedes-Benz Collision Parts to get the job done right. 

Contact your local Mercedes-Benz dealer 

or learn more at mbwholesaleparts.com. 

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Limited warranty • Proven reliability 


Horton Restorations thrives with unique business model under one roof 


While Fehr is known as a Lotus specialist, 

he said the shop works on all vehicles, from 

Jaguars to Mercedes-Benz and from 

Chryslers to Fords. “We work on virtually 

everything from pickups to roadsters, and 

rarely turn down anything except late-model 

vehicles with computer systems.” With the 

exception of upholstery work and engine 

rebuilds that are subbed to trusted local 

firms, the three specialists say they perform 

all other restoration services. 

During a recent Parts & People visit, a 

variety of vehicles were on hand at the shop, 

including several Lotus models, as well a 

Cobra being painted, a 1948 Chrysler 

Windsor Convertible undergoing full 

restoration, and a 1940 Dodge having 

complete body work by Nordby. The trio 

said they expected a 1972 International 

Harvester Travelall to arrive soon for major 

restoration work. 

“Some jobs are two to three weeks, while 

others are long-term projects that may take 

up to two years or more,” Fehr said. On 

average, he said the trio probably works on 

30 or more vehicles each year. One recent 

completion was a full restoration of a 1961 

Austin Healey Roadster than ran about 

$100,000, he said. “We have those on 

Randall Fehr works on a 1972 Lotus Elan 

that is a full restoration project at Randall 

Fehr Restorations. 

occasion that run in that range or more, but 

the full restorations are all based on the time 

needs and financial resources of the 

customer.” 

Those customers, Fehr said, pay each 

business separately for the specific services 

rendered based on parts and materials, as 

well as labor. “We don’t use any labor 

guides; we charge our customers fair prices 

for the services rendered,” Fehr said. 

Finding parts for restoration vehicles is 

not as challenging as one might expect, he 

said. “We use our local NAPA store for 

many parts and it’s amazing what they can 

provide,” he said, adding that recently the 

NAPA store was able to supply hydraulic 

brake parts for a World War II Jeep 

prototype the shop was working on. “We 

also have lots of online sources for parts, car 

Stephen Clapsaddle of Liquid Reflections, 

who uses a Viking paint booth, stands in 

front of a Cobra he is painting. 

clubs, and we know lots of folks across the 

country and beyond we can contact for 

parts.” 

Nordby, who often creates metal 

fabrication from scratch for older vehicles, 

said he also performs specialized work for 

other industries, including the Museum of 

Flight in Seattle that has used his talents for 

airplane restoration projects. He said he 

often designs special tools for both 

automotive and outside work. “I also work 

with metal craft artists who design pieces 

using metal fabrication,” he said. 

Clapsaddle, who said he also performs 

paint work for other shops in the area, 

purchases his paints from Wesco in Lake 

City. “My most difficult task is matching 

colors, as all of the vehicles we work on are 

old, the colors are faded, and it’s often 

challenging to get the correct match to the 

original color,” he said, adding that he 

spends a great deal of time prepping 

vehicles and properly tinting to achieve the 

original colors. 

“What Stephen does with paint, Brian 

with metals, and myself with restoration, our 

goal is to exceed our customer’s 

expectations,” Fehr said. “We want to make 

each vehicle good as new with no corners 

cut, so we carefully explain the flaws and 

risks involved in each project that we get.” 

While a considerable amount of the trio’s 

business is derived from Puget Sound-area 

customers, they also have customers in 

Canada and across the U.S. A customer 

from Philadelphia recently visited and 

reviewed the progress of a Lotus he had 

transported to the shop. Another Lotus 

owner from Spain, now living in Texas, had 

his car shipped from Germany to the shop to 

complete restoration work started in Europe. 

Much of the shop’s business also comes 

from car club members who sometimes hold 

special meetings and clinics at Horton to 

learn more about the restoration process. 

“We’re a tiny niche in the industry, but we 

have plenty of work and we’re all happy,” 

Fehr said. And each of the trio said they do 

not see much of a change in their business 

over the coming years. n 


Campbell Hausfeld pursues professional market with new commercial line 

by Jay Sicht 

Las Vegas—After 175 years in business, 

Campbell Hausfeld is a name familiar to 

many in the automotive repair industry for 

its consumer line of air tools, compressors, 

and other power equipment including 

welders, generators, and pressure washers. 

Mike Houge (l.), director of product marketing, and 

Terry Atwater, president, are shown with Campbell 

Hausfeld’s new 10-HP rotary screw compressor at 

SEMA. They introduced the company’s new 

commercial line of equipment and tools at the 

show. 

The company is now aggressively 

pursuing the professional automotive repair 

industry, and selected the SEMA Show to 

launch its new commercial product line, 

highlighted by a lineup of rotary screw air 

compressors. 

“Although Campbell Hausfeld has 

always served the auto repair industry, we 

feel the time is right to create a dedicated 

program that positions us as the one-stop 

shop for air power and powered 

equipment,” President Terry Atwater said. 

“We offer not just a comprehensive selection 

of heavy-duty tools and equipment, but also 

a national service center network.” 

The new “black line” contains unique 

tools and equipment with heavy-duty 

features and equipment demanded by 

professional users, he said. 

“We have great name recognition,” 

Atwater said. “And now, it’s our time to get 

back into key areas we haven’t been in for a 

while. There are a lot of new things we’ve 

identified and are bringing to the 

marketplace.” 

Campbell Hausfeld’s line of its first rotary 

screw compressors underscores the 

company’s commitment to this segment, 

Atwater said. 

“It’s just one example of how we are reenergizing 

our approach to the commercial 

market and, specifically, to the automotive 

industry,” he said. 

As is the norm for rotary screw 

compressors, the new compressors are rated 

for a 100-percent duty cycle, which means 

they can run continuously, and they feature 

quality components such as a made-in-USA 

tank and a German air end, said Mike 

Houge, director of product marketing. In 

sizes from 5 HP to 25 HP, the compressors 

have suggested selling prices of between 

$4,000 and $10,000, he said, which he noted 

is much less than that of some competitors. 

Compared to others’ rotary screw 

compressors, the new Campbell Hausfeld 

offerings are more user-friendly and 

serviceable, Houge said, owing in part to 

easy access to the oil filter and 

electromechanical controls instead 

of a microprocessor. Any 

troubleshooting can be handled over 

the phone, he said. 

For reciprocating compressors, 

the company offers sizes ranging 

from 5 HP to a 30-HP duplex 

compressor, all with cast-iron, twostage 

pumps, an industrial-duty 

motor, and a mounted and wired 

motor starter for quick electrical 

hookup. Many of those sizes are 

available in different levels of addon 

equipment, Houge said. The 

Shop Air Series is a basic 

compressor, while the Tire & Lube 

Series adds an aftercooler (to remove 

moisture from the compressed air,) an 

automatic tank drain, a low-oil guard, and a 

digital hour meter. 

In addition to the equipment from the Tire 

& Lube Series, the Paint & Body Series 

adds a refrigerated dryer to deliver moisturefree 

compressed air, Houge said, noting that 

refrigerated dryers are also available 

separately. 

One piece of equipment featured at 

SEMA and useful to collision repairers, race 

car fabricators, and automotive restorers was 

a new 110V plasma cutter, which uses 

inverter technology and weighs only 22 

pounds. The unit, with a suggested list price 

of $599, will run on a small air compressor, 

so it is very portable, Houge said. 

Other heavy-duty offerings include filters 

and regulators with larger fitting sizes and 

higher flow ratings, he said, while a new 

high-performance impact gun features not 

only greater strength, but a patented side 

exhaust to keep brake dust out of the 

technician’s face. 

Houge said the company has a wellestablished 

network of authorized service 

centers but is currently looking for 

additional automotive-equipment 

distributors who can benefit from also 

buying Campbell Hausfeld’s related 

commercial equipment offerings such as 

generators and pressure washers on the 

same purchase order. 

“That’s very unusual for this space,” he 

said. “It may not hit home for everybody, but 

a lot of people will be excited about it.” n 

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Cooper’s Keys to Auto Repair Profits 

Helping Techs with Diagnosis? Why? 

When your techs come to you to say 

they’re stumped, and you give them a 

recommendation, you’ll lose regardless of 

the outcome. If you solve the problem, 

you’ve sent a message to the 

techs that you’re more 

knowledgeable than they are, 

which is not going to build their 

confidence. But then it gets 

worse; you’ve also taught them 

to come to you when they're up 

against a wall. This is a lose-lose 

situation in that if your 

recommendation doesn’t solve 

the problem, the tech will come 

back to you looking for your next 

recommendation because you’ve now 

assumed ownership of the problem. 

As a business owner, you need to invest 

your time working on the business, not 

working on cars or solving problems for 

your techs. The answer is a lot easier than 

you may think. The first thing you need to 

do is create a system for solving technical 

problems in your shop. Once you have the 

system outlined, you’ll need to meet with all 

your techs and tell them something like this: 

“Guys, I realize you all know we each 

have a job here at Elite Auto Service. Mine 

54 

Years of Service 

1959 •2013 

Bob Cooper 

ATTENTION NORTHWEST JOBBERS!!! 

Automotive Electric Distributors 

AED is a proud member of the Federated Buying group. 

AED Annual Meeting 

& Trade Show 

Saturday, March 9, 2013 at the AED Warehouse 

Annual Meeting 

Thousands of dollars in 

Cash Prizes awarded 

All Day Long! 

is to set the goals of the company, hire 

remarkable people like you, and to provide 

you with a lot of opportunities. Your job is 

to accurately diagnose the vehicles, and 

then get our customers back on 

the road just as soon as possible. 

Unfortunately, I’ve been 

spending way too much time 

helping you do your job, which 

means that I don’t have the time 

needed to do my job to the best 

of my ability. 

“So what I’ve done is put 

together a system that you guys 

can use to solve technical 

problems without my help. 

Here’s how it’s going to work: If you get 

stumped with any diagnosis or repair, the 

first thing you’ll need to do is ask one 

another for any ideas. If no one in the shop 

has a quick answer, I want you to go to the 

second step, which is checking our 

Mitchell Repair service. If you can’t find 

the answer there, I want you to go to the 

third step, which is to call our technical 

support line. 

“Now, if for whatever reason, you still 

can’t come up with the answer, it’s time to 

go to step number four, which is to post 

Trade Show 

Lots to See & 

Special Deals Too! 

Need More Information? 

Contact an AED Sales Representative. 

online. If you still can’t find the answer, 

then it’s time for step five: Partner with 

another one of our techs and commit to 

resolving the issue together, because you 

know as well as I do, there’s a good chance 

the answer is right under your nose, and 

sometimes all we need is a second set of 

eyes. At this point you’ll need to hit the 

reset button, and start at the very beginning 

by re-confirming the customer’s complaint, 

and then going through this entire problemsolving 

system one more time. 

“Finally, if you still can’t solve the 

problem, then you’re more than welcome 

to come see me to ask if I can help. But if 

you do, bear in mind that I’m going to ask 

you what you have done to solve the 

problem so far, and I’m going to have an 

expectation that you’re going to tell me 

you’ve followed each and every one of 

these steps. 

“So here’s what I’m going to do next: 

I’m going to put each of these steps down 

on a piece of paper, and pass out copies to 

each of you. Then we’re going to have 

another meeting so I can learn what you 

think we need to add, subtract, or change 

on our list. As soon as it’s finalized, I’m 

going to give each of you a copy, and I’ll 

have an expectation that you’ll use it. If 

you do, I am confident you’ll be able to 

solve problems a lot more quickly, you’ll 

flag more hours, and I’ll be able to do what 

I need to do: Invest my time in finding 

ways to provide you with all of the 

opportunities you’ll need.” 

In closing, I know there is no one single 

problem-solving system that will work for 

every shop, but hopefully this information 

will give you the start you need to solve the 

age-old problem of your techs relying on 

you, when all they need is a simple system 

they can follow. 

. . . . . . . . . . . 

Since 1990, Bob Cooper has been the 

president of Elite Worldwide Inc., an 

ethics-based company that helps both 

struggling and successful shop owners take 

their businesses to new levels through oneon-one 

coaching from the industry’s top 

experts. The company also offers shop 

owners sales, marketing, and management 

solutions in the form of downloadable 

audio training courses, seminars, and 

service advisor training. You can contact 

Cooper at 

contact@eliteworldwidestore.com, or at 

800-204-3548. n 

Plus, Dont Miss the Always-Popular 

Casino Night! 

Food, Beverages, Prizes, 

Karaoke &Fun!! 

Casino Night will be at the 

Marriott Downtown on the Waterfront 


“Independent Jobbers Succeeding Together” 

1-800-666-2660 

www.aed-inc.com 

4990 NORTH BASIN AVENUE 

PORTLAND, OREGON 

Founded By Jobbers, Working For Jobbers Since 1959 


Rare Parts services far more than 

the hot rod and restoration markets 

by Steve Sharp 

Stockton, Calif.—Rare Parts, which 

supplies chassis and suspension components 

for all makes and all models from 1920 

through 2013, has diversified 

with success into other 

segments, Rare Parts 

President Dan Burgess said. 

“Besides cars and light 

trucks, we also make parts for 

motor homes, heavy-duty 

truck, and off-road use,” he 

said. “Now more than ever, 

we service far more than the 

hot rod and restoration 

markets. 

“We are the only company 

in the country like this, and it 

would never work if there 

was another company that 

could supply these parts.” 

Rare Parts’ 18,000 SKUs 

are available through major warehouses 

including NAPA, AutoZone, CARQUEST 

and others, Vice President Marshall Giorgi 

said. “Tucker, Maserati, Mustang, or 

Freightliner — if we don’t have it, we’ll 

build it for you.” 

Burgess’s father, Lyle, started the 

company to supply alignment shops the 

parts that were no longer available from 

normal sources. As owner of an alignment 

shop, Burgess said he knew firsthand that 

more and more key components were 

becoming obsolete. “I was constantly 

running into situations where you could buy 

ball joints and tie rod ends but not the center 

link,” he said. “Without all the parts you 

simply cannot do the job right.” 

By the late 1970s, finding parts for 

vehicles 20 and 30 years old was a problem. 

Even parts for cars from the 1960s were 

becoming difficult to find, he said. As an 

advisor and tester for Moog, he went to the 

company to convince them to continue 

building parts for older vehicles. “Their 

representative said to me, ‘If it is such a 

damn good idea, why don’t you do it 

Lyle Burgess started 

Rare Parts in 1981 

to supply alignment 

shops chassis and 

suspension 

components that 

were no longer 

available through 

traditional sources. 

Rare Parts President Dan Burgess stands 

in front of the company’s cycle testing 

machine used for tie rods, links, and ball 

joints. 

yourself.’ The following Monday I started 

Rare Parts.” 

Rare Parts has been filling the gap with 

short-run chassis and suspension parts since 

1981, Burgess said. “If we can’t 

find the part, we’ll build it for you. 

No matter how obscure. We don’t 

look at it like a normal company, 

we don’t expect to turn our 

inventory. We expect to have the 

part when you need it, now or 

twenty years from now.” 

“My father sent me to 

warehouse management class,” 

Dan Burgess said. “It covered ‘A’ 

sellers, how long parts should be 

on the shelf, inventory 

management and the like. As it 

turned out, we broke every rule. 

We have made a business out of 

‘C’ and ‘D’ sellers. We are the 

source and the only source many 

times for these parts. We don’t care how 

long we have to sit on a part because we 

know ultimately someone will need it.” 

Burgess added, “We don’t think about 

how many of them there are left, or how 

long we will have to wait to sell it. If there 

are only 20 remaining in the world, we say, 

‘Great, we’ll build enough for all 20.’” 

Giorgi said that initially the company 

bought up old stock. “We used to run ads 

just to find the old parts. We have a separate 

warehouse full of our of production NOS 

(new old stock) parts. Eventually parts 

became completely obsolete and that led to 

us developing the ability for short 

production runs.” 

When Rare Parts needs to manufacture a 

part, they don’t only rely on reverse 

engineering, said Burgess. Through industry 

contacts and strong relationships with OEMs 

and their suppliers, Rare Parts has amassed 

an extensive library of factory drawings and 

specifications. When it comes time to build 

new parts, a specific process has been 

documented from forging to the “Made in 

the USA” sticker, he said. 

The interesting thing about obsolete parts 

is they have a history, Giorgi said. “Many 

times we can improve on a part, making it 

stronger or more serviceable. We research 

and test the original part, identify the 

problems, and re-engineer the product to 

eliminate any issues.” 

“Our Diamond series of components 

answer the need for a better-than-OE 

product,” Dan Burgess said. “It doesn’t cost 

any more to make a better part, and our 

quality control and testing is second to none. 

We design all of our parts in-house, use 

three-dimensional printing for prototyping, 



Rare Parts services far more than 

the hot rod and restoration markets 


and test fit when possible. Our Diamond 

products are often twice the strength of the 

OE part, providing better service and longer 

life than the part it replaces.” 

Its 1984 through 1986 Mustang SVO 

lower control arm is a perfect example of 

Rare Parts’ Diamond series product, he said, 

adding that the factory part is out of 

production and no longer available. “The 

original control arm design included an 

integral ball joint. Our Diamond series 

control arm incorporates a replaceable ball 

joint so it can be serviced in the future. It is a 

much better part than what the car came 

with.” 

Every batch of parts and their components 

goes through the Rare Parts testing and 

inspection department. “Parts are tinsel 

tested, life-cycle tested, and fitment and 

fatigue tested,” Burgess said. Fit, finish, 

specifications, and heat treat are checked 

every time. 

“These parts are suspension parts, not trim 

parts. There is a huge liability,” he said. 

“Logos are on our castings, every part is 

date-coded down to the component, and all 

of our heat-treated parts are impact- tested to 

verify hardness. Nothing goes on the shelf 

until it has gone through quality control and 

our testing lab. Blueprint to fitment-quality 

is everything,” he said. 

Giorgi said people are trying to prolong 

the life of their daily driver, and some cars 

from the 1990s are already missing vital 

chassis and suspension parts. 

“I have to remind myself sometimes that 

it doesn’t matter that I’m building a part for 

an AMC Pacer,” Burgess said. “Unlike most, 

we embrace that odd part for that odd car, 

truck, or motor home. It’s what we do.” 

Giorgi said their challenge is letting the 

market know what they have to offer. 

“We’re not just Mustangs, Camaros, and 

1932 Fords. We’re not just restoration, hot 

rod, and off-road. We have a role at AAPEX 

just as we do at SEMA. Cars, trucks, motor 

homes, and even agricultural vehicles are 

part of what we do every day. We’ve been 

supplying what the others no longer do for 

more than 30 years.” 

Burgess added, “We have always strived 

for the highest quality and the best 

availability. We have a 99-percent 

fulfillment rate, and shops in California 

receive their parts next day at no extra 

charge. My dad built the company with a 

commitment to quality and service — we 

continue that commitment today.” n 

Challenger Lifts increases rise 

and decent speed with quick cycle 

Challenger Lifts has added Quick Cycle Lifting as a cost efficient option that will 

increase rise and descent speed on its most popular 10,000-pound lifts. 

Louisville, Ky.—When improved lift 

speed of rise and lowering time is 

important to for vehicle service 

applications, Challenger has developed a 

simple solution. Challenger Lifts has 

added Quick Cycle Lifting as a costefficient 

option that will increase rise and 

descent speed on its most popular 10,000- 

pound lifts. (Available on the CL10V3 

aboveground and Challenger Lifts’ 

EV1020 inground lifts). Quick Cycle is 

ideal for quick service bay applications. 

Quick Cycle features an increased 

speed of rise from 48 seconds (standard 

CL10V3) to 27 seconds. The increased 

speed of rise is obtained by increasing the 

power unit motor from the standard 2-HP 

motor to a stronger 3-HP motor, and an 

upgraded 4.0-cc pump from the 

conventional 2.5-cc pump. 

Quick Cycle also delivers an improved 

lowering speed of a constant 17 seconds 

(approximately) regardless of the weight 

of the vehicle. Quick Cycle’s improved 

lowering speed is accomplished by the 

addition of a variable flow control valve 

on each cylinder. 

Available only on the CL10V3 series 

and EV1020 inground lifts (also available 

in three-phase voltage. (Dual Pendant 

Controls and Bench Mount Controls 

currently not available). n 

REST EASY. EVERYTHING’S RIGHT ON TRACS. 

There’s no reason to keep late nights when your business is on TRACS, the Total Repair Automotive Computer System from NAPA. 

We have met the needs of installers for over 80 years, and understand those needs better than anyone in the industry. TRACS 

helps you run every aspect of your business more easily and effectively: from estimating, billing, and invoicing, to employee time 

management, customer service history, electronic parts cataloging and ordering. You can even run multiple part matrixes on 

every single item you sell, resulting in the profi t your business needs to stay healthy. All from a single source, proven supplier with 

a long history of success, a dedicated support team after the sale, and the uncompromising quality for which NAPA is known. You owe it to yourself and 

your business — for a free demonstration to see how TRACS can help your bottom line, call 800.659.3710 or go to NAPATRACS.com. 


Recently Driven 

Kia and Acura provide secure winter driving and dynamic road control 


Winter is still upon us, particularly for 

those of us who live in a mountain climate. 

As of this writing, we’re still experiencing 

plentiful snow and ice near Mount Rainier. 

While driving in winter conditions can be 

more about the driver than the vehicle, there 

is little doubt that an all-wheel- or fourwheel-drive 

CUV or SUV can provide 

much safer driving if prudence by the driver 

is paramount. 

Recently we’ve tested several excellent 

vehicles that have handled well in rain, 

snow, and ice. They include 2013 models of 

the Kia Sportage and Sorento, Acura MDX, 

Ford Escape, and the Hyundai Santa Fe. 

Each offered its special features and 

attributes for enjoyable winter driving. 

The 2013 Sportage SX AWD unit we 

tested was not only priced right, but it 

offered most everything we needed in a 

CUV, including a very reactive all-wheeldrive 

system mated to a DynaMax 

electronically controlled, on-demand sixspeed 

transmission. It was exceptionally 

smooth and performed well in snow and ice 

conditions. 

At the top of a four-model lineup, the SX 

has a very pleasant 2.0-L DOHC CVVT 

turbo-charged engine (the other three have 

the 2.4-L four-cylinder engine). The in-line 

four-cylinder has aluminum heads and block 

and produces 260 HP at 6,000 RPM, more 

than adequate power for the 175.2 inch-long 

SX. 

We liked the feel and handling of the 

Sportage in all driving conditions. The 

unibody steel CUV has a front suspension 

that combines MacPherson struts, coil 

springs, and gas shock absorbers, while the 

rear is a multi-link suspension with gas 

shocks. With the 18-inch wheel and tires, 

plus a ground clearance of 6.77 inches, this 

small crossover was made for fun in the 

snow. The motor-driven rack-and-pinion 

steering turns the vehicle curb to curb in just 

34.7 feet. 

Other favorable aspects of the Sportage 

include an amazing 26.1 cubic feet of cargo 

The 2013 Kia Sportage is a CUV that offers 

more than ample features, secure winter 

driving, and generous pricing. 

space with the back seat up, and 54.6 cubic 

feet with the seat down. Plus this little beast 

has a towing capacity of 2,000 pounds. 

The Sportage SX had as standard 

equipment power/heated outside mirrors 

(plus optional LED turn indicators), daytime 

running lamps, projection headlights, fog 

lights, rear spoiler, roof rails, dual chrome 

exhaust, rear-view camera, dual-climate 

control, a back-up warning system, and a 

premium Microsoft Infotainment system. 

Storage units abound in the Sportage, 

including an under-rear cargo floor storage 

compartment and multiple cup holders both 

front and rear. 

Pricing on the 2013 Sportage begins at 

$19,000 and all models are loaded with 

standard features. It measures up to great 

value for a more than reasonable price, plus 

fuel economy on the SX is 20 MPG/city and 

25 MPG/highway (varies by model; up to 

30 MPG on the 2WD base model). 

* * * 

The 2013 Acura MDX is a totally 

pleasurable SUV to drive for many reasons. 

Among them is its Super Handling All- 

Wheel-Drive (SH-AWD) system that we put 

to the test and it reacted exactly as it should, 

making snow and ice driving much less 

stressful. 

With a combination of the Vehicle 

Stability Assist (VSA) that utilizes the SH- 

AWD, an anti-lock braking system, throttle 

control and yaw, as well as speed and 

steering sensors, the MDX Advance 

Entertainment model we tested provided 

exceptional control and handling. Front and 

rear stabilizer bars along with a hydraulic 

speed-sensitive steering system offered 

added utility for driving in difficult road 

conditions. The 19-inch all-season tires (18- 

inch are standard on other models) also 

assisted with traction control. 

Powered by a 3.7-L aluminum alloy V-6, 

the MDX engine produces a gracious 300 

HP at 6,300 RPM and 270 lb-ft. of torque at 

4,500 RPM. The transversely mounted 

SOHC, 24-valve VTEC is mated to a sixspeed 

automatic transmission with 

paddle-shifters, as well as Grade Logic and 

Shift Hold Control systems. The engine 

purrs and the drivetrain with the SH-AWD 

is just flat perfect. Excellent power, reactive 

shifting, and road control — everything 

needed for good- or bad-weather driving. 

With five model offerings, the MDX 

starts at $43,280, but our top-of-the-line 

Advance Entertainment model was a bit 

pricier at $54,805. It did, however, have no 

priced options as it included everything 

from the Acura Navigation System with 

The 2013 Acura MDX provides dynamic road 

control and boundless features to meet the 

needs of drivers. 

voice recognition (one of our favorites) to 

fog lamps, a rear DVD entertainment 

system to heated front and rear seats 

(another favorite during cold weather). 

To say the MDX is loaded with safety, 

comfort, and technical features is truly an 

understatement (there were more than four 

dozen standard features on our tester). This 

seven-passenger unit with a GPS-linked trizone 

climate control system also offers 

excellent cargo capacity (up to 103.5 cubic 

feet with second- and third-row seats down), 

and just plain creature-comfort driving and 

handling. n 


Tool & Equipment Product Notes 

Bosch offers three levels of J2534 

reprogramming capability 

Las Vegas—Bosch has developed the 

Flasher Pro Bundle, which offers shops 

three levels of reprogramming capability. 

These reprogramming packages, in a 

good/better/best series, cover different end 

user needs while addressing key 

reprogramming aspects, including 

protecting the vehicle’s ECU while being 

reprogrammed. 

The Bosch Flasher Pro Bundles includes 

three options: 

Flasher Pro Basic: Provides ability to 

reprogram more than 30 OEM ECUs, and 

ensures a clean, reliable power supply 

Bosch has developed the Flasher Pro 

Bundle, which offers shops three levels of 

reprogramming capability. 

during ECU reprogramming. 

Flasher Pro Better: Provides the 

same abilities as above while adding the 

ability to check vehicle battery before 

starting ECU reprogramming. 

Flasher Pro Best: Provides the same 

abilities as above while adding the ability 

to reprogram two vehicles simultaneously 

using Flasher Pro and M-VCI scan tools. 

All of these kits include a DVD with 

J2534 videos covering basics of 

reprogramming, tools needed, websites 

from which to download programs, case 

studies that show return on investment 

(ROI) calculations from reprogramming, 

Bosch devices that enhance the 

reprogramming experience, and ways to 

perform reprogramming for select vehicles. 

Plews clear tube grease guns offer 

quick ID and re-load 

Dixon, Ill.—Plews & Edelmann 

introduced Plews/Lubrimatic UltraView 

clear, polycarbonate shatterproof barrel 

grease guns. UltraView Clear Tube Grease 

Guns allow proper identification of the 

grease type inside the grease gun. When 

HEV & EV Diagnostics, 

Training, and Tools… 

It all starts with AR&D! 

Hybrid, Electric, Battery Pack, 

Transmission, and Machines 

Automotive Research and Design 

(AR&D) has more than 26 years of 

HEV/EV training, diagnostic tools, 

and experience from Saturn EV1 

to the Chevrolet Volt. 

AR&D is you single best resource 

for Technical Training and 

Diagnostic Equipment supporting 

the Automotive Aftermarket, 

Technicians, Owners, Fleets, and 

Educators. 

bulk loading the gun, the amount of grease 

remaining can also be seen. Since crosscontamination 

causes 60-80 

percent of bearing 

failures, a clear 

barrel helps 

prevent expensive 

mistakes before 

application. 

UltraView Lever 

UltraView Clear Tube 

Grease Guns allow 

proper identification 

of grease type. 

Action or Pistol 

Grease Guns are 

equipped with the 

following: a 

CNC-machined, 

high-tolerance aluminum headcap; a 

heavy-duty follower spring; and large 

rolled threads for quick, clean reloading. 

With a variable stroke feature built-in for 

use in confined areas, the Lever Action 

Grease Gun delivers 1.5-oz per 40 strokes 

and develops 8,000 PSI. The Pistol Grease 

Gun dispenses 1-oz per 40 strokes, 

produces 5,000 PSI and easily operates 

with one hand. 

Redline announces technology for 

turbo and boosted engines 

Las Vegas—Redline has developed and 

patented a diagnostic leak detector that 

replicates the full 

load of a turbo, 

supercharged, or 

boosted engine so 

that it can be 

safely tested for 

faults with the 

engine off. As 

OEMs 

Redline has 

developed and 

patented a diagnostic 

leak detector that 

replicates the full load 

of a turbo, 

supercharged, or 

boosted engine so 

that it can be safely 

tested for faults with 

the engine off. 

increasingly 

move to boosted 

systems to satisfy 

consumers’ 

demand for 

performance 

paired with fuel 

economy, there is 

a need for 

innovative 

diagnostic equipment designed specifically 

for turbos. President and CEO of Redline 

Detection, Zack Parker, announced that 

PowerSmoke is now OEM approved. It is 

the only diagnostic leak detector that can, 

in a single procedure, detect any highpressure 

leak, pinpoint its location, and 

identify failing components. Parker said 

PowerSmoke eliminates comebacks, 

reduces buy-backs and warranty claims, 

and reduces diagnostic times. It produces a 

highly visible vapor that is free of dyes and 

other contaminants that are not 

recommended by many OEMs. 

New ACDelco-licensed ratchet 

wrench introduced 

Grand Blanc, Mich.—A new, ACDelcolicensed 

12-V 1/4-inch ratchet wrench has 

been introduced, complementing the 

ACDelco-licensed 3/8-inch power wrench 

already on the market. The new power 

ratchet wrench (Model ARW1202) 

includes two 

12-V Li-ion 

batteries, one 

quick 

charger, and 

a carrying 

case. 

ACDelcolicensed 

1/4-inch 

power 

ratchet 

wrench 

features 

include: 30 

lb.-ft. of 

An ACDelco-licensed 12- 

V 1/4-inch ratchet wrench 

has been introduced that 

includes two 12V Li-ion 

batteries, one quick 

charger, and a carrying 

case. 

tightening torque; spindle lock; aluminum 

gearbox housing; variable-speed switch; 

anti-switch grip; 0-160 RPM; and is 2.35 

pounds. 

New Integrity Test Drive completes 

vehicle inspection in minutes 

Conway, Ark.—The new Integrity Test 

Drive by John Bean performs a complete 

vehicle inspection in a matter of minutes, 


SEE US AT 

DoubleTree SeaTac, WA 

March 1-3 

• HEV/EV Webinars 

• HEV/EV Hands-on Training Courses 

• For Technicians (Certification option available) 

• For Educators (Certification option available) 

• HV Battery Pack Diagnostic Equipment 

• Electric Machine Diagnostic Equipment 

Go2HEV.com 

586-718-9469 

2010 East Lindberg Rd. 

Port Angeles, WA 98362 

When you’re looking for quality parts 

and real-world marketing programs, 

call your Federated parts professionals: 

Western Washington 

Seattle Automotive 

Distributing 

(800) 932-3500 

Eastern Washington 

Automotive Jobbers Supply 

Spokane, Washington 

(800) 333-2291 

S.W. Washington/Oregon 

AED Inc. 


(800) 666-2660 

South Central Washington 

P & F Automotive Warehouse 

Yakima, Washington 

(800) 572-0491 



The new Integrity Test Drive by John Bean 

performs a complete vehicle inspection in 

a matter of minutes, generating 

comprehensive, easy-to-understand 

reports of needed service. 

generating comprehensive, easy-tounderstand 

reports of needed service. The 

Integrity Test Drive quickly conducts 

multiple inspections of the vehicle 

including alignment, battery, brake 

efficiency, brake pad thickness, diagnostic 

codes, and generates a color-coded report 

that highlights the results of each 

inspection. 

Dannmar introduces dependable 

professional car lift 

Moorpark, Calif.—Dannmar’s all-new 

Major Series D-12 is a new breed of 

vehicle lifts. With a 12,000-pound capacity, 

the lift is equipped with heavy-duty, steelbraided, 

aircraft-quality cables, and has 

been over-engineered in order to create a 

new standard in the industry. From the Tru 

Non-Skid Runway Grip to the heavy-gauge 

reinforced-steel skeleton, the Major D-12 

will not fall short of extraordinary, 

company officials said. 

Bosch Mastertech VCI scan tool 

provides expanded coverage 

Las Vegas—Bosch’s updated Mastertech 

VCI (M-VCI) scan tool provides greatly 

expanded, in-depth vehicle coverage, 

especially for European vehicles, with its 

new ESI[tronic] 2.0 diagnostic software, 

which complements the scan tool’s Shop 

Foreman Pro software. ESI[tronic] 2.0 

diagnostic software in the M-VCI provides 

technical support for tester operations via 

technical hotline, and a free one-year 

Dannmar’s all-new Major Series D-12 has 

a 12,000-pound capacity. 

diagnostic software subscription with the 

purchase of the M-VCI scan tool. The 

software covers domestic vehicles such as 

Chrysler, Ford, and GM, and Asian 

vehicles such as Toyota, Honda, Nissan, 

Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Scion, Acura, and 

Infiniti, and European vehicles such as 

Audi, BMW, Mercedes-Benz, Mini, Volvo, 

Volkswagen, and Smart Car. The M-VCI 

tool provides wireless PC communication, 

two aftermarket software applications, and 

the same hardware platform adopted by 

many of the leading automobile OEMs. 

Bundled software kits make updates 

simple for OTC scan tools 

Otwanna, Minn.—OTC announced the 

release of new bundled software update 

kits. Genisys features two kit selections, 

with one kit for the Pegisys line of 

professional scan tools. Genisys kit 

number 3421-141 provides a system 5.0 

memory card, 2012 domestic/Asian and 

2011 European software; the 3421-145 

software-only kit is for technicians that 

have system 4.0 and newer tools (no new 

memory card required). Both versions 

make updating simple, reduce costs, and 

include full coverage for domestic, Asian 

and European vehicles. For Pegisys, there 

is one new 3825-55BDL 12-month 

subscription kit that also includes 

domestic/Asian and European coverage. 

With the Pegisys subscription kit provides 

new coverage and all coverage to be 

released for the next 12 months. 

New docking and charging station 

for Verus Pro is available 

Lincolnshire, Ill.—Professional 

technicians can keep their Verus Pro 

diagnostic and information system 

powered all day long with the new Verus 

Pro Docking and Charging Station from 

Snap-on. The secure charging station 

allows technicians to place their Verus Pro 

on a workbench or where it is most 

convenient. With a 15-pin video connector, 

technicians can hookup to their external 

big-screen monitor to display Verus Pro 

results. The built-in USB hub connects up 

to four USB devices. The stand allows for 

vertical, angle or fold positions to lay flat 

in a tool storage drawer. The Verus Pro 

integrates everything that technicians need 

into one tool: scanner, scope, data 

manager, waveform library, schematics, 

TSBs, online technical forum, Fast-Track 

Troubleshooter, guided test procedures and 

verified repair tips. The optional ShopKey 

Repair Information System gives 

technicians quick access to complete 

repair guidance for any light vehicle on the 

road. n 

Over 1000 transmissions in stock and ready to deliver! 

We Supply: 

n Automatics & Standards 

n Foreign & Domestic - All Years, Makes, & Models 

n Transfer Cases 

n Differentials 

n Torque Converters 

n Hard & Soft Parts 

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direct from the manufacturer. 

We offer towing and installation services. 

Heavy Duty Applications for Towing 

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www.trctrans.com 


People & Places 


OREGON 

Automotive Paint Specialties 

(APS) based in Bend, one of the largest 

coatings and equipment suppliers to 

collision shops in the Northwest, has joined 

forces with Wesco, a paint, body, and 

equipment supplier based in Mountlake 

Terrace, Wash. APS was founded by Ben 

Tuma in 1977 in Bend and grew to six 

stores across the state which will retain the 

APS name, said Jayson Tuma of APS. 

Wesco has been operating in the Northwest 

for more than 35 years and has more than 

20 stores in Washington, Oregon, and 

Idaho. The company also operates a 

training center at its Mountlake Terrance 

headquarters. 

Rally America Inc., based in 

Williston, Vt., has announced that it will 

partner with the United States Auto 

Club (USAC) in 2013 to present its Rally 

America National Championship, a sevenseries 

event held across America. One of 

the seven will be a repeat event in early 

May in Portland (and The Dalles), the 

Oregon Trail Rally. Other national 

championship events will be held Maine, 

Michigan (2), Minnesota, Missouri, and 

Pennsylvania. Top competitors in the Rally 

America national series often reach speeds 

of 100 MPH while traversing courses 

consisting of gravel, dirt, ice, and snow. 

Dozens of rally cars, like this Subaru team, 

will participate in the Oregon Trail Rally in 

May as part of the Rally America National 

Championship Series. 

The 36th annual Southern Oregon 

Rod & Custom Show will be held Feb. 

9-10 in Central Point at the Jackson 

County Fairgrounds & Exhibition Center. 

Sponsors said they anticipate more than 

8,000 attendees to view hundreds of classic 

cars, hot rods, and trucks at the event that 

benefits the Child Development & 

Rehabilitation Center at Oregon Health & 

Science University. 

Ed Miller has been named the 2012 

“Retailer of the Year” by the Medford 

Chamber of Commerce, the second 

time he and Ed’s Tire Factory have won the 

award. In the tire business for 54 years in 

Idaho and Oregon, Miller established Ed’s 

OK Tire in Medford in 1966. He recently 

sold the business to longtime associate Eric 

Gill who owns eight other Tire Factory 

stores in the state. Miller remains a board 

member of the Northwest Tire Dealers 

Association. 

WASHINGTON 

The Automotive Training Expo 

(ATE) will take place March 1-3 at the 

Doubletree Hotel in SeaTac. With more 

than 60 class offerings for mechanical and 

collision repair shop professionals over three 

days, ATE also offers an extensive trade 

show on Friday and Saturday evenings. For 

complete details on the training and expo 

events, visit www.atetrainingexpo.com. 

The Pierre Auto Group based in the 

Lake City District of Seattle, has recently 

purchased the Mitsubishi franchise in 

Everett from Brien Ford. The Parts 

Manager at Harris Mitsubishi is James 

Shriver and David Piece is the service 

manager. In addition to Pierre Ford and 

Pierre Chevrolet in Lake City, the group also 

operates Pierre Money Mart, and Harris 

Ford/Lincoln and Harris Isuzu in 

Lynnwood. 

The Washington Automotive 

Wholesalers Association (WAWA) 

based in Mill Creek, has changed its name 

to the Washington Automotive 

Industry Association (WAIA) in what 

the association said was to enable an 

increase membership and expand its 

insurance and other benefit plans to more 

segments of the industry. WAWA was 

founded in 1960 as the Washington State 

Automotive Wholesalers Association with 

the “State” designation dropped in 1971. Its 

primary membership has consisted of those 

in wholesale and retail auto parts business. 


Team Seattle 

Your Wholesale Parts Team 

3 Deliveries a day from Alderwood to South Tacoma 

including the Eastside! We also service Alaska & Hawaii! 

Maintaining The Quality Starts 

When You Choose 

Honda and Toyota Genuine Parts 

Honda of Seattle 

DOWNTOWN 

(206) 382-8834 

Toll Free: 1-800-735-7206 

Fax: (206) 625-9744 

Email: parts@hondaofseattle.com 

Toyota of Seattle 

DOWNTOWN 

(206) 382-8838 

Toll Free: 1-800-359-5635 

Fax: (206) 382-8823 

Email: parts@toyotaofseattle.com 

Three deliveries a day dedicated to serving you. 

Mechanical Repair Training Notes 

CARQUEST 

Technical Institute 

To register, contact your local CARQUEST 

store or visit http://carquest.com/carquest/ 

proCTIclassSchedule.html 

Location TBD-Lacey/Olympia, Wash. 

• Feb. 26-28-Diagnostic Secrets of a 

Mobile Diagnostic Technician 

Location TBD-Gresham/Portland 

Eastside, Ore. 

• Feb. 5-7-Current Probe Diagnosis 

Location TBD-Bend/Redmond, Ore. 

• Feb. 27-28-Vehicle Valvetrains: 

Operation and Diagnosis 

NAPA AutoTech Training 

For more information or to register, 

visit www.napaautotech.com. 

Seattle Distribution Center- 

Kent, Wash. 

• Feb. 4-No Start, No Code Diagnostics 

Skagit Valley College- 

Mt. Vernon, Wash. 


South Puget Sound Community 

College-Olympia, Wash. 


Rogue Community College- 

Grants Pass, Ore. 


Central Oregon Community College- 

Bend, Ore. 


University of Alaska – TVC- 

Fairbanks, Alaska 

• Feb. 19-Scan Tool Dynamics GM Systems 

Wasilla NAPA Training Center- 

Wasilla, Alaska 

• Feb. 20-Scan Tool Dynamics GM 

Systems 

NAPA Auto Parts Store- 

Anchorage, Alaska 

• Feb. 21-Scan Tool Dynamics GM Systems 

Automotive Research 

and Design 

For more information and to register, 

e-mail training@go2hev.com or visit 

www.go2hev.com. 7-8 p.m. Times are ET. 

Webinars 

• Feb. 18-Oscilloscope use for diagnosing 

hybrid vehicles 

Automotive Training Expo 

To register, visit www.atetrainingexpo.com 

or call 877-257-2100. Three days of 

mechanical and management training 

classes for the automotive service and repair 

industry are offered at ATE, plus a trade 

show for two nights. 

DoubleTree Hotel-SeaTac, Wash. 

• Mar. 1-3-Automotive Training and Expo n 

Visit www.partsandpeople.com for additional training events 



The 47th annual Early Bird Swap 

Meet, one of the largest in region, will be 

held Feb. 16-17 at the Puyallup Fair & 

Events Center in Puyallup. 

Two Spokane firms have renewed the 

MVP Status with the National Truck 

Equipment Association (NTEA). 

Washington Auto Carriage and Fiber- 

Tech Industries Inc. have both 

successfully been renewed. To achieve the 

NTEA status, truck parts distributors and 

parts manufacturers must have NHTSA 

registration, vehicle certification, meet 

insurance requirements, have at least 20 

percent of employees certified in approved 

programs, have an established safety 

program, and have an approved Quality 

Assurance Program. Optional education 

programs, environmental or sustainability 

policy, and post-sale customer follow-up 

policies may also be considered for MVP 

Status. 

Fix Auto USA announced Jan. 10 the 

addition of two locations in Washington to 

its growing network of collision repair 

centers. Fix Auto Gig Harbor, formerly 

Denny’s Harbor Auto Body, and Fix Auto 

Puyallup, previously Denny’s Valley Auto 

Body, are now Fix franchises. “Marketing 

and community involvement have always 

been important to us, so by becoming a Fix 

Auto franchisee, we like that we 

immediately benefit from the group’s 

previous marketing efforts,” said Patty 

Denny, Fix Auto Puyallup co-owner. Fix 

now has eight locations in the state and a 

total of 14 throughout the Northwest region. 

Six Robblees’ Inc., based in Tukwila, 

is celebrating its 100th anniversary in 

business. Founded by three Robblee 

brothers in Tacoma in 1913, the company 

has grown to 18 locations in Washington, 

Oregon, Montana, California, and Alaska. 

The firm distributes wheels, trailer parts, tire 

shop supplies, equipment, and heavy-duty 

parts. 

NATIONAL 

The Automotive Aftermarket 

Industry Association (AAIA) 

announced that registration is open and 

available online for the Aftermarket 

eForum, May 22-23, at the Hyatt Regency 

O’Hare in Rosemont, Ill. Aftermarket 

eForum is the only conference devoted 

exclusively to identifying business 

technology and supply chain solutions in the 

automotive aftermarket. Keynote speakers 

will address logistics and supply chain 

management, telematics and competition in 

the age of the connected car, and the new 

normal marketplace enabled by online 

retailers and virtual distributors. The final 

agenda and speaker line-up will be 

announced soon. For more information and 

to register online, visit 

www.aftermarket.org/eforum. 

Standard Motor Products Inc. 

(SMP) was recently honored by the 

Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance 

Inc. by receiving two awards during The 

Alliance’s annual shareholders’ winter 

meeting at the Turnberry Isle Resort in 

Aventura, Fla. SMP was named the 2012 

Vendor Channel Partner of the Year in 

From l., Wayne Butts, vice president 

product management, Automotive 

Aftermarket Parts Alliance; John Bartlett, 

CEO, Automotive Parts Headquarters, St. 

Cloud, Minn.; Lawrence I. Sills, chairman 

of the board and CEO, SMP; Garey Lange, 

director of program distribution, SMP; Eric 

Sills, vice president engine management 

division, SMP; and Ken Wendling, national 

sales manager, SMP. 

addition to being recognized for its 

outstanding fill rate performance. In the fill 

rate category, the award was presented to 

SMP for achieving a 95-percent or greater 

average fill rate to The Alliance for engine 

management products for the entire year. 

The Federal-Mogul Vehicle 

Component Solutions organization 

received the 2012 Outstanding Training 

Support Award from the Aftermarket 

Auto Parts 

Alliance Inc. 

during the 

group’s winter 

shareholder 

meeting in 

Aventura, Fla. 

The Outstanding 

Training Support 

Award 

recognizes the 

supplier that best 

supports the 

technical 

training needs of 

each Alliance 

shareholder 

The Federal-Mogul 

Vehicle Component 

Solutions organization 

received the 2012 

Outstanding Training 

Support Award from 

the Aftermarket Auto 

Parts Alliance Inc. 

business and the more than 2,300 affiliated 

auto parts stores and more than 2,900 

certified service center locations. Federal- 


IDAHO 

IDAHO 

Dave Smith Motors 

210 N. Division 

Kellogg, ID 83837 

(877) 572-7870 

WASHINGTON 

WASHINGTON 

Chrysler Dodge Jeep Ram 

of Bellevue 

120 116th Avenue NE 

Bellevue, WA 

98004 

(425) 454-8411 

Lithia Chrysler Jeep 

Dodge Ram of Tri Cities 

7171 W. Canal Drive 

Kennewick, WA 

99336 

(509) 736-6020 

AUTHENTIC PERFORMANCE 

E 

AUTHENTIC PERFORMANCE 

BUILT TO PERFORM. 

BUILT TO LAST. 

When you’re in the middle of a tough job, the last thing you need are generic parts that don’t fit or perform 

right. That’s why we are your source for Authentic Mopar® Powertrain components — the right parts to 

help you get the job done on Chrysler, Jeep®, Dodge, Ram and SRT ® vehicles. 

CONTACT US FOR ALL YOUR MOPAR ® 

POWERTRAIN PARTS NEEDS! 

Tacoma Dodge 

4101 S. Tacoma Way 

Tacoma, WA 

98409 

(253) 475-7971 

7971 

Town & Country Chrysler 

Jeep Dodge 

13733 Aurora Avenue N. 

Seattle, WA 

98133 

(206) 365-4930 

Check out MoparRepairConnection.com for resources, es, promotions and technical information. 

©2012 Chrysler Group LLC. All Rights Reserved. 

Chrysler, 

Jeep, Dodge, Ram, SRT and 

Mopar are registered trademarks of Chrysler Group LLC. Printed in U.S.A. 


People & Places 


Mogul provides an extensive range of 

training programs at its Technical Education 

Center (FM TEC) in St. Louis as well as at 

thousands of customer locations across 

North America. The company’s training 

program will be expanded with the 

introduction of an in-market product, brand, 

and technical support platform for vehicle 

service providers. The new platform features 

teams of ASE-certified specialists and 

sophisticated technical support vehicles that 

will be deployed to key markets across 

North America. 

For the third consecutive year, FMI 

Automotive has been honored by the 

Aftermarket Auto Parts Alliance 

Inc. with its Channel Partner Award for 

Outstanding Shipping Performance. The 

award was accepted by John Wall, CEO 

of FMI Automotive, and Casey Lee, 

president of FMI Automotive, during The 

Alliance’s annual shareholders’ winter 

meeting in Aventura, Fla. FMI 

Automotive recently expanded its line of 

premium performance water pumps by 

adding new part numbers to cover a wide 

range of domestic and import vehicle 

applications. In addition, the company 

introduced new packaging for its brand 

name line of FMI water pumps. 

Motor Magazine awarded Hunter’s 

Quick Check alignment audit system 

with a 2012 Top 20 Tools Award at AAPEX. 

This marks Hunter’s fifteenth Top 20 award. 

Hunter’s Quick Check captures toe and 

camber measurements and produces printed 

results in just 58 seconds. Service writers 

can then use the color-coded printout to alert 

customers of misalignment issues and 

generate more repair orders for alignment 

service. 

Editor of Motor Magazine John Lypen (l.) 

presented Hunter Vice President of 

Marketing Beau Brauer (far r.) and Hunter 

Vice President of Research and Development 

Tim Strege (c.) with Motor Magazine’s Top 20 

Tools Award for Quick Check. 

OEConnection LLC announced that its 

Customer Care Center has been certified as 

a Center of Excellence by 

BenchmarkPortal for the fifth 

consecutive year. The Center of Excellence 

designation is one of the most prestigious 

awards in the customer service and support 

industry. Call centers achieve the Center of 

Excellence distinction based on bestpractice 

metrics drawn from the world’s 

largest database of objective and 

quantitative data that is audited and 

validated by researchers from 

BenchmarkPortal. Since 2008, the 

OEConnection Customer Care Center has 

consistently ranked among the top 10 

percent of all call centers surveyed. 

Mahle Clevite Inc. recently 

announced the 2012 Mahle Engine Builders 

of the Year for the NASCAR Sprint Cup 

Series, Nationwide Series, and Camping 

World Truck Series. The Engine Builder of 

the Year award is presented to the top engine 

builder in each of the NASCAR series who 

has accumulated the most Mahle Clevite 

points based on qualifying, laps led, and 

finishing position. Shane Parsnow of 

Hendrick Motorsports was awarded the 

2012 Mahle Engine Builder of the Year title 

for the Sprint Cup Series based on the 

performance of the No. 48 Chevy Impala 

driven by Jimmie Johnson. Parsnow 

accumulated a total of 378 Mahle Clevite 

points. Mark Cronquist, engine builder 

for Joe Gibbs Racing (JGR), was also back 

Ted Hughes (l.), manager of marketing, 

Mahle Clevite Inc., presents the 2012 

Mahle Engine Builder of the Year Award 

for the NASCAR Sprint Cup Series to 

Shane Parsnow, Hendrick Motorsports. 

on top, earning his 6th Mahle Engine 

Builder of the Year title in the Nationwide 

Series – this time for his work on the No. 18 

Toyota Camry – earning a total of 429 

Mahle Clevite Points. Bruce Stauffer 

was awarded the Mahle Engine Builder of 

the Year title for the NASCAR Camping 

World Truck Series. 

In other Mahle news, Mahle Clevite 

recently announced the completion of the 

acquisition of RTI Technologies. The 

transaction renames the company Mahle 

Clevite Inc., RTI Division. The company 

will continue to develop and distribute 

automotive maintenance equipment 

including air conditioning service, fluid 

exchange, and nitrogen tire inflation 

systems. 


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Mahle Clevite Inc., RTI Division will 

continue operations in York, Pa., and 

supply shop equipment under the Mahle 

brand to the Independent Aftermarket and 

major OE manufacturers globally. 

Additionally, the acquisition will allow 

Mahle to focus on continuous sales growth 

and customer service in North America, 

together with potential business expansion 

in other regions. 

The National Institute for 

Automotive Service Excellence 

(ASE) announced changes in the leadership 

of the ASE Industry Education Alliance. 

Trish Serratore has been named 

president of Automotive Youth 

Educational Systems (AYES) in 

addition to her role as president of the 

National Automotive Technicians 

Education Foundation (NATEF). 

Chuck Roberts has been named vice 

president of both organizations and will 

assume day-to-day operational 

responsibility. The shift in responsibilities 

unifies the underlying changes to the 

NATEF and AYES programs, which have 

been implemented over the past 16 months. 

It also streamlines the management process 

and allows better focus on growth for the 

future of the programs. 

Jon Lamb has joined Cardone 

Training Technologies Inc. as chief 

marketing officer. Lamb will be working 

Calendar 

Feb. 7-9 * 33rd annual International 

Training Event & Trade Show, Mobile Air 

Conditioning Society (MACS), Caribe 

Royale Hotel & Convention Center, 

Orlando, Fla. Visit www.macsw.org. 

Feb. 9-10 * 39th annual Corvette & 

High Performance Meet, Puyallup Fair & 

Events Center, Puyallup, Wash. Call 360- 

786-8844 or visit www.corvhp.com. 

Feb. 8-11 * 2013 Convention & Expo, 

National Automobile Dealers Association 

(NADA), Orlando, Fla. Visit www.nada.org. 

March 1-3 * 2013 Automotive Training 

Expo (ATE), Doubletree Hotel, SeaTac, 

Wash. Visit www.atetrainingexpo.com. 

March 6-8 * The Work Truck Show (in 

conjunction with the National Truck 

Equipment Association Educational Days 

March 5-7), Indiana Convention Center, 

Indianapolis. Visit www.ntea.com. 

March 7-10 * 41st annual Boise 

Roadster Show, Expo Idaho, Boise. Call 

208-938-8986 or visit 

www.firebirdonline.com. 

March 8-9 * Annual AXD Installer 

Show (March 8) and AED Annual Meeting 

& Jobber Show (March 9), AED Warehouse, 

Portland. Call 800-666-2660 for details. 

with Grant Cardone, CEO, Cardone 

Training Technologies Inc., in the creation 

and implementation of automotive 

marketing strategies to assist automobile 

dealers and personnel in successfully 

converting Internet, phone, and walk-in 

traffic using Cardone On-Demand. Cardone 

On-Demand is a cloud-based conversion 

solution providing new and used car 

operations and their personnel with real 

time strategies to assist them in converting 

direct mail, radio, TV, and print 

opportunities. 

Mudlick Mail has appointed direct 

marketing veteran Sandra Worm to serve 

as the company’s first vice president of 

operations. Worm brings more than 25 years 

of direct marketing experience to her new 

position. Worm will help guide the 

company’s expansion efforts and support 

President Tim Ross in overseeing Mudlick 

Mail’s operations. 

The National Automobile Dealers 

Association (NADA) has selected Peter 

K. Welch as its new president. Welch has 

been president and CEO of the California 

New Car Dealers Association (CNCDA) in 

Sacramento since 2003, and has managed 

its government affairs office, including 

legal, legislative, and regulatory affairs, 

since 1990. Holter announced that CNCDA 

has formed a search committee to find a 

replacement for Welch and has retained the 

services of an executive search firm to 

assist in that task. n 


March 15-17 * 57th annual Portland 

Roadster Show, Portland Expo Center, 

Portland. Visit 

www.portlandroadstershow.com. 

March 21-23 * Showpower 2013, the 

Undercar/Transmission Expo, Memphis 

Cook Convention Center, Memphis, Tenn. 

Visit www.showpower.com. 

March 26-28 * 62nd annual Vehicle 

Maintenance Management Conference 

(VMMC), Professional Automotive Training 

Center, Shoreline Community College, 

Shoreline, Wash. Visit 

www.cm.wsu.edu/VMMC. 

April 5-7 * 25th annual North American 

Trade Show, Electrical Rebuilders 

Association (ERA), Wyndham Indianapolis 

Hotel & Conference Center, Indianapolis, 

Ind. Visit www.electricalrebuilders.org. 

April 16-18 * SAE 2013 World 

Congress & Exhibition, Cobo Center, 

Detroit. Visit www.sae.org/congress. 

April 27-28 * 2013 West Coast Trade 

Show, Performance Warehouse, PW 

Hillsboro Warehouse, Hillsboro, Ore. Visit 

www.performancewarehouse.com 

Advertisers’ Index 

AED, Inc...........................................................22 

Aluminum Head Rebuilders............................10 

ASA-WA ............................................................2 

Automotive Research and Design..................26 

BMW of Bellevue ............................................10 

BMW Seattle ...................................................25 

Borroughs Corp. .............................................18 

Chrysler Jeep Dodge of Bellevue...................15 

Chrysler LLC ...................................................29 

Drivelines NW, Inc...........................................21 

Elite Worldwide ...............................................30 

Energy Suspension.........................................14 

Engine & Performance Warehouse, Inc. ..........7 

Exedy Global Parts Corp................................25 

Federated Auto Parts......................................26 

GAAS.................................................................9 

Gorlicks Distribution Center ...........................14 

Honda of Seattle .............................................28 

Jasper Engines & Transmissions....................23 

Jet Chevrolet .....................................................4 

Kia Motors America ........................................15 

Kia of Puyallup ................................................16 

Sign on Bonus for Diesel Technicians. 

LKQ, Corp. ......................................................17 

Magnaflow Performance Exhaust..................20 

McCurley Chevrolet Cadillac............................4 

Mercedes-Benz USA LLC ..............................19 

Mudlick Mail....................................................13 

NAPA Auto Parts.............................................11 

NAPA Tracs .....................................................24 

Northwest Sales Group, Inc. ............................6 

OTC ...................................................................5 

Possy...............................................................12 

RDO Equipment..............................................31 

Scarff Ford-Isuzu ............................................30 

Seattle Mini......................................................16 

Tire Dealers Warehouse....................................4 

Total Lubricants USA Inc. ...............................32 

Toyota of Seattle .............................................28 

Transmission Exchange Co............................21 

Transmission Rebuild Center .........................27 

Valley Gear & Transmission ..............................8 

Warehouse West ...............................................8 

Wholesale Parts People..................................14 

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