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APRIL 2010
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
DEPARTMENTS
to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding the publisher
is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional service. If legal
advice or other expert assistance, is required, the services of a competent profes-
sional person should be sought from a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted
by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers. 2 FROM THE CEO: What If It Doesnt Work?
Gears also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. Gears by Dennis Madden
considers all articles for publication that contribute positively to the welfare of the
transmission industry, and reserves the right to edit all articles it publishes. If you 53 Powertrain Industry News
would like to submit an article to Gears, include background information about 58 Shoppers and Classified
the author and a telephone number where he/she may be reached. If you want
submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. 64 ATRA Seminars
64 List of Advertisers
Editorial and Business Offices
2400 Latigo Avenue,
Oxnard CA 93030
Phone (805) 604-2000
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Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: On The Cover: WIT A Decade of Excellence
Station A, PO Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5 Feature story on Page 18
Email: gears@atra.com
(Paid Advertisement)
Issue #147 Printed in U.S.A. Copyright ATRA 2010
FROM THE CEO
It Doesnt Work?
T hings dont always work out the
way youd like them to, espe-
cially with transmission repair.
You rebuild a unit a type youve
built a hundred times before but this
when the shops are so close to each
other? It cant.
So if the problem isnt regional or
economic, what is it? And why is it so
hard for shop owners to identify whats
approach for discovering the differ-
ences between shops that are doing
well and those that are barely surviving.
Over the past five years weve learned
what works and what doesnt. There
one bounces it doesnt even make wrong, and what itll take to fix it? are clear examples of this, regardless of
it off the rack. Maybe you tried a new Thats because theres a difference how big the shop is, how long its been
procedure or component and it didnt between identifying a problem on the in business, or where its located.
work the way it was supposed to. bench and one in your business model: Thats a critical consideration: Its
So what do you do? You try some- time. far too easy to pour time and money into
thing else. You ask for advice. You read Everything you do has a cause- additional marketing. But, because of
up on the topic, looking for fixes for and-effect relationship. You flip the the delay between the cause and effect,
similar problems. Maybe you go to a switch on the wall and the light comes you may never know for sure whether
tech seminar to look for the answer. on. Cause, effect. Usually, as with the your investment worked or not.
You know it can work; youve light switch, the cause and effect are Thats why the Whats Working
rebuilt these units before without any right next to one another, so its easy to program is so valuable: Through our
problem, so why wont it work right recognize the relationship. industrywide sampling, weve been
this time? In most cases its something The same is true with transmis- able to identify the procedures that
you missed or failed to do properly, or sion repair. You replace a rolled seal provide the biggest bang for your buck,
a modification that backfired. or a cracked ring, and now the clutch and which ones are more likely to drain
It doesnt really matter what the applies. You know you found the cause your wallet, without ever producing the
specific problem is: The fact is youre of your problem because it goes away results you were hoping for.
going to find it, and youre going to fix as soon as you install the new parts. This year, the Whats Working pro-
it; giving up isnt an option. But in business theres a huge time gram is going on-site to successful
But when it comes to business delay between the cause and effect. shops across the country to see first-
problems, shop owners dont always Changes you make today can take hand what theyre doing and how. Well
exhibit that same determination. Too months even years to realize share their stories at this years ATRA
often they explain away a poor month their full effect. That delay can make it Powertrain Expo. And well have some
or a bad quarter as something outside all but impossible to identify whether of those successful shop owners on
their control: The economy has just youre getting the desired effect from hand to tell their stories and answer
killed business in this town, they say. the changes you made. your questions.
And because they accept that premise, So at ATRA, we started to examine There are still some great opportu-
they dont take the steps necessary to the most successful and not so suc- nities in this industry. The trick to suc-
invigorate their businesses. cessful businesses in the industry. cess is no different than at the bench.
The problem with that is it isnt We compared what they were doing, You need to dig in and discover the
true: During my shop visits Ill often and looked for what they had in com- causes that provide the effects youre
stop in at shops that are just a few blocks mon. From that, we were able to iden- looking for. What if it doesnt work?
from one another. In one shop theyll be tify practices and procedures that pro- You can learn what will at Expo!
sweeping the floor and emptying trash, vide the greatest rewards for transmis-
while the next one is packed. How sion repair shops.
could the difference have anything to That led to the creation of ATRAs
do with the economy or regional issues Whats Working program; a targeted
PARTNERSHIP
PRODUCTIVITY
PROFITABILITY
www.certifiedtransmission.com
A Closer Look at
the Toyota A750E
Valve Body
by Mike Brown
members.atra.com
Figure 1
T
he Toyota A750E was first
introduced in the 2003 A750E/F Line Pressure Specifications
4-Runner and Land Cruiser,
Condition D Position R Position
and the Lexus LX400 and GX470.
Since then its become quite popular, Idling 53-59 psi 73-84 psi
showing up in the Tacoma, Sequoia
and Tundra in 2005 and the FJ Cruiser Stall 196-212 psi 188-205 psi
in 2007.
These transmissions have been on
the road for up to seven years and are
getting a lot of miles on them. With all
the cars using this transmission, theres
no doubt youll be seeing it in the years
to come (figure 1).
A common complaint is the trans-
mission falling out of gear when com-
ing to a stop, sometimes so harsh that
it feels like someone has rear-ended
you. This happens because the trans has
fallen out of gear due to low pressure,
caused by a faulty SLT pressure sole-
noid. The ECM then ramps up the pres-
Figure 2
sure to max and it slams back into gear.
Replace the SLT solenoid is the fix for specifications (figure 2).
this concern. But before we get into for the clutches and brakes. If this sen-
fixes lets learn a little about this unit ATF Temperature Sensor sor fails, the ECM will prevent upshifts
This transmission uses two tem- into fifth gear and lockup. The ECM
Line Pressure perature sensors, each with a different uses ATF temperature sensor 2 for shift
Specifications function. The ECM uses ATF tempera- timing control when ATF temperatures
Line pressure tap location and ture sensor 1 to modify pressure control are high.
Figure 3 Figure 4
Figure 5 Figure 6
Figure 7
Figure 8
Theres no factory preset specifica-
tion. From the factory setting, you can
turn the stepper in to provide a firmer
shift feel. Backing the stepper out will
offer a softer shift feel.
2. Make sure you record the pri-
mary regulator valve setting before
removing primary regulator valve from Figure 9
the valve body. The tallest step will pro-
vide the highest base pressure reading; Exploded View Upper to take it out and clean the bore thor-
the shortest step will provide the lowest Valve Body 1 oughly.
base pressure reading (figure 6). Install the checkball in the C3
Always inspect the valves and check valve lineup (figure 7). If you Exploded View Lower
springs thoroughly during disassembly. leave this checkball out, the transmis- Valve Body 1
Check the valves for scoring and make sion wont go into reverse. The primary regulator valve and
sure the valve bore is clean. Pay close Always check the B1 accumulator the accumulator control valve are locat-
attention to the valve layout, and make in the upper valve body (figure 8). This ed in the lower valve body (figure 9).
sure you put them back in the way they is where debris will build up. It can be Record the settings for these valves.
came out. difficult to remove, but its important
Figure 13
Keeping It Simple
ATRA is now providing simplified schematics and
diagnostic procedures for some of todays most
difficult diagnoses. by Mike Souza
members.atra.com
S
everal times when
handling a tech call
I forget the difficult
situations involved when
I ask a tech to back-probe
some wires and give me
the results. Ill usually
get a response of; Man
do you know where that
pin is located? There are
times when explaining a
procedure over the phone
even while the tech and
I going over the same
wire diagram can still be
confusing.
What weve done
here at ATRA is put
together some simple
diagrams and procedures
to help make diagnosing
Dodge and Chrysler vehi-
cles with the RE trans-
mission less complicated.
These diagrams along
with their procedures
should make finding the
problems faster which
will save time and money
spent chasing wires. As
we all now how difficult
it is to get paid for diag-
nostic time.
The diagrams in fig-
ures 1 and 2 will have to
be determined by look-
ing up the year make
and model of the vehicle
being worked on to know
whether the relay is pow-
ered up through the C1 or
C3 connector. The pro-
cedure for both figures Figure 1
is the same; unplug the
PCM with the ignition key off, and fusible link) to the connector pin found being worked on. Then after jumping
then jump voltage (always through a in the wire schematic for the vehicle a ground to the appropriate connector
Figure 4
Figure 3
964 East Market St., Crawfordsville, IN 47933 Toll Free: 800-729-7763 Fax: 765-364-4576 Email: raypt@raybestospowertrain.com
Keeping It Simple
Figure 6
Figure 5
Electro Magnetic
Interference
(EMI)
(AC Ripple)
Figure 9
pin, check the return voltage at the as shown in figure 7 it can be quickly These diagrams are derived from
pins shown. If necessary the positive determined as to which component is information that has been carefully
meter lead can be moved to the amps working correctly. compiled from industry sources known
jack then with the meter changed to DC Figure 8 will show basic proce- for their reliability and should be accu-
amps the same circuits can be checked dures to use when questions arise on rate. Basically this means we all know
for load. what if the results of the test do not why they put erasers at one end of a
Figure 3 is a little different, the agree with what should be the cor- pencil. Always verify the circuits be
2004 and up models do not require rect voltage or amperage in figures 1 tested with factory manuals whenever
voltage to be supplied to the connector. through 3. Example: what if there is no/ possible. Mistakes can be seen in sev-
The voltage for the relay is provided low voltage on one of the pins? Then eral wire diagrams found in aftermarket
by turning the ignition key on. Figure the next procedure would involve one sources only to verify these mistakes
4 is for diagnosing 2005 models with of the steps in figure 8 which shows the are copied right from the O.E. manuals.
the 48RE and a Transmission Throttle correct procedure for checking opens Wire colors vary from module to mod-
Valve Actuator (TTVA). In figures 5 or shorts. Figure 9 is a quick test for ule as well as year to year. Always iden-
and 6 the electrical governor circuits checking interference on speed sen- tified the circuits that are being tested
can be monitored either with a single sors or throttle position sensors for by their connector pin identification.
meter or any type of meter with dual EMI Electrical Magnetic Interference.
trace capabilities, and a pressure gauge. Problems from EMI may cause erratic
With a scan tool and pressure gauge shifts and/or trouble codes.
Input Shaft
507 778 Automatic Transmission Parts Standard Transmission Parts
Stator Rebuilt Kits
777 Pump Hard Parts Input Clutch Hub O.Dr. / Reverse Input Clutch
Retainer
Parts OE Manufacturer, Aftermarket New, Bearing Kits with Syncro Rings
Piston
Underdrive Clutch
Front Cover Plate Body Gasket Sets
Remanufactured, & Used
232 571 220 Clutch Drums
570 214 576 234 883 482 558
Gears & Shafts 568
331 121 101 141 863* 332 333 562
861 140 891 110 130 150 892* 884
968
052 Shafts Rebuilt
330 Transmissions
978 865 962 852 874
ecad e of S e r v i c
Underdrive Hub Torque Converters
O.Dr. Hub Reverse Hub
Pilot Bushings & Bearings
800-940-0197
Modulators Rough Service Light Bulbs
760
Washers R.T.V. Black, Blue, Clear
7 480 690 895 429 897
271 770 Bearings 781
Technical Manuals
317
Gaskets074 Tools & Equipment
Bands Threadlock
sales@wittrans.com
Flex Plates & Flywheels
Speedo Gears
Mounts 950
Park Coolers 926B
or buy online at
everse Gear
sing 761
TeckPak Conversion Kits
M304317B 926
Case Superior Shift Correction Packages
Ext. Housing 352 379
493
494
www.wittrans.com
5-2
5-3 995
Parts Detent Cables 927
Transgo Reprogramming Kits
347 740
5-1 370 352
438 370 Case 010
wl Assy. 436 Transgo Shift Kits
342
420
846 300
013 540
746 740 765 371
741
V.B.
Charlotte Branch
T
en years ago a new parts sup- Today WIT proudly stands as one WIT philosophy.
plier emerged into the transmis- of the top transmission parts suppliers WIT has made it their mission to
sion industry. Nestled on the in the United States and believe they be a key contributor in the success of
outskirts of Louisville, Kentucky this are second to none in customer service every customer they serve. Too often
small company of around forty employ- and customer satisfaction. At the end hearing the phrase, back in the good
ees was full of life. Dreams of a long of the day its the customer that drives old days or back when, they real-
and prosperous future ran wild amongst us to where we need to be says VP ized early on the basics of old-time
the anxious few, nervous about how / Sales and Marketing Director Tom service and how much the customers
to survive in a market on the brink of Conroy. Theyve brought us this far wanted to be treated like that again.
major technological advances, not cer- and thanks to our ability to satisfy their Simple things like getting deliveries
tain what awaited them with the onset needs, they will continue to take us during the day and at night, a com-
of Hybrids, the CVT Transmission, where we want to go. mitment to receiving credit for returns
advanced electronics, and the evolution within 24 hours, getting the proper
of the valve body to name a few. Reaching new paperwork so you can better manage
It was a tough time for all parts heights your business, multiple brands of the
distributors, let alone a newcomer WIT currently has 22 branch loca- top quality parts you need, depth in
says WIT president and CEO Kenny tions operating in 15 states across part coverage so you dont have to shop
Hester. Fortunately for WIT that core the country and isnt finished yet. multiple suppliers, consistent pricing,
group of loyal employees proved to be Averaging 2 or 3 locations per year and even multiple options for account
the cornerstone for this once small busi- WIT has experienced 9 consecutive terms and methods of payment to men-
ness with most of them having spent years of growth and expansion. When tion a few. All implemented from
ten, fifteen, and even twenty years in asked how theyve managed to achieve listening to customers needs. Anyone
the transmission industry. There was such extraordinary growth the answer who doesnt feel they get this level of
certainly no shortage of expertise and was unanimously consistent, by listen- service has a broad range of contacts
experience flowing through the halls of ing to our customers. Filling customer from local managers, regional manager,
this budding organization. That kind needs and looking for every opportu- VPs and even Kenny Hester, CEO, to
of experience made it easy to hit the nity to make you, the customer more reach out to for help. Any issue can be
ground running explained Kenny. efficient and profitable has long been resolved as long as we communicate,
one of the base fundamentals of the Kenny says.
Accounting Reps
Purchaceing agents LR: Missy Dickson, Pat Olcott, Bill Aronhime, Marvina
Thompson, Learn about new products Wit is about to offer their customers
Pam McCullough,
Warehouse Supervisor Shipping
economical price. WIT is constantly have to have the pan bolts, the side pan, 2008 Automatic Transmission Guide,
looking to strengthen their product line shift linkage, or any other odd and end 2009/2010 Transmission Catalog,
offerings, a recent example being the part the customer needs to complete the 2008/2009 Lipseal Installer, and the
new relationships established between job, to be at the level of service were 2008/2009 Standard Transmission
WIT and the OE friction manufacturers committed to. Guide. When asked why they felt they
Exedy and Fuji. had to develop these tools WIT simply
WIT is one of the top suppliers of Then reaching felt like it was a combination of exist-
OE products and their goal is to carry higher ing plastic tools breaking too easily or
more OE brands than anyone in the WIT knows theres much more there just wasnt an effective tool to
country. This is one of the most costly to service than great employees and do the job right, either way, they felt
parts of our business but its necessary deep inventory. WIT has launched an responsible to make it better for the
to give the customers what they ask industry leading hard parts customer shop owners and builders. Take the
for claims Rick Skaggs, VP / General service program. When customers tell catalog, when WIT started to develop
Manager. Being able to offer the cus- their sales reps about a problem they the catalog there wasnt a photograph
tomer both TTK/Parker and Transtec are having with a hard part or a unit, the quality picture catalog readily available
gasket sets, Raybestos, Borg Warner rep will contact the technical team and on the market. They took the reins
and Dynax (by Exedy) friction plates, they call the customer directly to see if and began designing one. The more
or mix and match rebuild kits with they can assist. Customers can also call detailed parts become, a good quality
any combination of OE overhauls and and ask for technical assistance. This photograph goes a long way in being
plates currently offered at WIT, helps is a great benefit to both WIT and the able to properly ID a part. The catalog
us to meet customer needs by offering customer. This helps us uncover issues was a very expensive undertaking, but
the product any way they want it says they may have internally and allows the company stands ready to offer their
Tom Conroy, Being the only company them to implement permanent fixes as pictures and issue the rights to others so
we are aware of with this unique mix well as develop product awareness to the entire industry can benefit from it.
and match offering helps us achieve the customers of common issues we WIT just released the standard catalog
our goal of never having to tell the already know about. (pictures only) and the standard flip
customer no. This goes for hard Innovative tool design has become chart in November 2009 with the full
parts as well. WIT began immediately another way WIT has found to round text standard catalog available in the
in 2000 building the most extensive out its endless level of customer ser- future.
hard parts inventory around, offering vice. Whether through partner orga- Its easy to see the shops of today
everything from OE new, aftermarket nizations to bring the designs to life becoming much more sophisticated and
new, remanufactured and good used. or building it themselves WIT has professional than in the past. Theyve
We knew getting into the hard parts developed many new tools for use in had to learn how to handle the new
business meant getting in deep offers the industry, proudly boasting about transmissions that have hit the market
Rick Skaggs, Stocking the common having five of the top ten tools in the and theyve weathered the economi-
pumps, drums, planets and valve bod- industry for the past two years. Some cal storm. Its hard to find a busi-
ies simply doesnt do it anymore. You of the winning tools were their 2006 ness that is doing more business today
A Closer Look
at Vehicle Data
Communications by Steve Garrett
members.atra.com
T
hrough the years weve come
to depend on the infor-
mation we can col-
lect with a scan tool. And
through those years, the
data communication
systems or data buses
have become more
complex. With OBD-
II, many of us hoped
that the data bus would
be standardized and that
all our problems would
be solved. No such luck.
Todays vehicles use a
variety of data transmission pro-
tocols. This forces scan tool manufac-
turers to constantly adapt their software
to those changes. This can be quite a
challenge, even if theyre working with
a single brand of vehicle. Lets look at
GM as an example: GM has used all
of these data communication protocols
over the years:
U A RT (Universal
Asynchronous Receive and
Transmit)
E&C (Entertainment and
Comfort)
SBI (Simple Bus Interface)
SPI (Serial Peripheral
Interface)
LIN (Local Interconnect
Figure 1
Network)
Keyword 81,82 and 2000 With the average GM vehicle SRX, GMC Terrain, Buick Allure and
Class 2 containing more than a mile of wire, LaCrosse. The new platform, known as
CAN (Controller Area dozens of computers, hundreds of con- the Global Diagnostic System or GDS,
Network) or GMLAN (General nectors, and thousands of terminals, will be introduced in all GM vehicles in
Motors Local Area Network) the need for a standardized diagnostic 2010/2011 models.
system became imperative. A new sys- The new diagnostic system still
tem was introduced for the 2010 model uses several communication protocols
year on the Chevrolet Camaro, Cadillac from previous models, but it will also
4 s &
-ILAN /(
www.transtec.com
Figure 2 Figure 3
Figure 4 Figure 5
vary greatly when it comes to diagnos- configurations, including: Off/A Sleep Modules need
tic processes and equipment. To under- Ring Network Connects each to power down.
stand the typical Global Architecture module through a serial data line. Off Awake Modules need
(Global A) well need to look at the Star Network Serial data lines to wake up and get ready for
data bus and its operation. The stan- from all the modules are connected at a work.
dardized, 16-pin DLC connector that single point; typically a splice pack. RAP (Retained Accessory
you connect to your scan tool will have Ring/Star Hybrid A combination Power) Modules that are
these pin assignments (figure 1): of the two common bus configurations. used after the key is turned
Pin 1 Low Speed GM LAN off but before the door is
Pin 3 Mid Speed GM LAN; + Lets take a look at some of the opened should stay awake for
terminal basics for a GM data bus system: a set period of time; all others
Pin 4 Scan Tool Ground Power Moding Power moding should sleep.
Pin 5 Common Ground was introduced on GM vehicles many Accessory Modules that
Pin 6 High Speed GM LAN; + years ago to reduce electrical loads, are used when the key is in the
terminal wiring, and improve module response accessory position should stay
Pin 11 Mid Speed GM LAN; time during wakeup. Years ago, GM awake.
terminal modules required a wakeup signal for Run All modules should be
Pin 12 Expansion Bus High the module to come on line. This was awake.
Speed GM LAN typically accomplished using an input Crank Modules that are
Pin 13 Expansion Bus High from the ignition switch. used for cranking the engine
Speed GM LAN In todays vehicles, wakeup is should wake up while all oth-
Pin 14 High Speed GM LAN; accomplished by an assigned Power ers should continue to sleep.
terminal Mode Master module (PMM). The
Pin 16 Scan Tool Power B+ PMM is typically the BCM or DIM. Gate Way Module Since 1986,
The PMM receives the input from many GM vehicles have used a master
The primary function of the vehi- the ignition switch and then relays module to control data transmission
cle data bus is still communication that information to the other modules on the bus. With a CAN/GM LAN
between the different control modules. through serial data on the data bus. network, the BCM typically acts as the
GM has used several different data bus Messages to the modules include: gateway or master control module. The
nicians have used the Tech 2 scan tool system is displayed on the DIC. during plant programming. When the
to help diagnose vehicles. With Global Not only do the Global A vehicles module is connected to reprogramming
A vehicles, the Tech 2 will no longer use controller security codes to prevent equipment, that equipment must pro-
function. GM now uses a PC-based vehicle theft, they also use a new type vide a specific Key value or the module
program known as GDS or Global of coding known an Environmental ID. wont accept the program.
Diagnostic System (figure 6) to inter- This type of coding is designed to pre- Many modules require a spe-
face with the vehicle. This means you vent someone from stealing a vehicle cific setup procedure to relearn compo-
need to ask your scan tool manufacturer by swapping modules and keys. The nent and system values.
if your scan tool will be compatible Immobilizer Master (BCM) identifies Many modules require a secu-
with this new system. Lots of other itself to the other modules. If it has rity code configuration procedure for
areas have also changed, including: the correct ID, the other modules will the module to operate properly. If the
Swapping computers for test respond with a specific Environmental configuration codes arent installed,
purposes can cause major problems. ID code. The BCM will look at all the some modules will lock out immedi-
While this isnt new with some GM modules Environmental IDs and, if ately, while others will initially oper-
vehicle platforms, its an issue with theyre correct, itll allow the vehicle ate and then lock out after several key
all Global A applications. Swapping to operate. cycles or after battery power has been
an ECM, BCM, EBCM, SDM, ECC, Reprogramming is sequential. removed. This could lead to a customer
IPC as well as many other modules can This means that several controllers are complaint because the engine wont
prevent the engine from starting or set updated at the same time in a specific start or other conditions after you per-
trouble codes. In some instances you sequence to prevent software conflicts. formed a repair.
wont be able to clear these codes. Typical programming now requires a Well as you can see times are still
The modules are all coded with lot of data to be transferred (typically changing until next time, remember:
specific ID information codes when 10-40 MB). Programming will take In the middle of difficulty lies oppor-
theyre programmed at the assembly much longer than in the past (up to an tunity.
plant. So modules that have nothing hour).
to do with starting the engine can In addition, to protect the modules
prevent it from starting. In addition, from unauthorized programming (non
other symptoms may occur such as the GM), the assembly plant uses a process
IPC odometer reading ----, the radio known as Seed and Key. The assembly
displays Locked, or service the theft plant installs a specific Seed value
Figure 6
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Parker
Parker
Parker
Seal
Seal
Seal
Aftermarket
Aftermarket
Aftermarket
Products
Products
Products
2315
2315
2315
SWSW
SW
32
3232
3232
Ave
Ave
Ave
Pembroke
Pembroke
Pembroke
Park,
Park,
Park,
FL
Parker
Parker
Parker
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Aftermarket
Aftermarket
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Products
Products
Products
2315
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SWSW
SW 32
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Pembroke
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Park, FLFL
Park,
Park,FLFL
FL
Phone
Phone
Phone
954-364-2400
954-364-2400
954-364-2400 Fax
Fax
Fax
954-364-2401
954-364-2401
954-364-2401
Phone
Phone
Phone
954-364-2400
954-364-2400
954-364-2400 Fax
Fax
Fax
954-364-2401
954-364-2401
954-364-2401
beast_animal_GEARS.indd
beast_animal_GEARS.indd
beast_animal_GEARS.indd
1 1 1 8/1/2007
8/1/2007
8/1/2007
1:38:02
1:38:02
1:38:02
PMPMPM
beast_animal_GEARS.indd
beast_animal_GEARS.indd
beast_animal_GEARS.indd
1 1 1 8/1/2007
8/1/2007
8/1/2007
1:38:02
1:38:02
1:38:02
PMPMPM
Just Sit by Thom Tschetter
On It!
Chamber of Commerce had just select-
ed us as the number one small business
in Washington State. I was receiving
a number of invitations to speak on
marketing at various trade association
seminars, workshops, and conventions.
It was fun and exciting. We were grow-
ing and I was getting the opportunity to
not only publicly brag about it, but to
get paid for doing it. It was time for me
to be taken down a peg.
Until that evening, I thought I
R
knew plenty about marketing automo-
ecently I was watching an The source of most of the information tive service and repair types of busi-
old episode of Happy Days. is the Yellow Pages companies, them- nesses. It was obvious to me that
Two things occurred during selves. The report simply presents it people dont typically think about car
the show that I felt were a clear mes- with a different spin, one that will help repairs unless theyre having a prob-
sage to me to re-release my Yellow you see the other side of the Yellow lem. Only when the problem or pain
Pages report, Avoiding the Yellow Pages sales pitch. forces them to do something about it
Pages Money Pit. Here is the story of how I first came will they act, and it seems logical that
The first thing was hearing the into possession of some of the money- they will refer to the Yellow Pages to
various characters in the show use saving tips in my report, and what lead decide who to call or where to go. With
the phrase, Just sit on it! as their to my quest to learn everything I could this in mind, I believed that the Yellow
way of telling someone to Kiss off!. about the Yellow Pages. Pages provided the single most impor-
The second was a DEX Yellow Pages One cold rainy Northwest evening tant facet to our advertising strategy.
commercial that ran during one of the back in 1995 I had a serendipitous We purchased the largest Yellow Pages
breaks. It was the one where the encounter with the person who first display advertising we could afford, as
character that plays the role of a talk- told me about the other side of the well as purchasing additional features
ing Yellow Pages Directory ends up Yellow Pages. As we huddled in an I-5 like color and additional listings under
serving as a booster seat for one of the roadside caf and warmed ourselves every classification heading that even
children in the commercial. over our steaming coffees, we began remotely related to our business.
The thought that occurred to me to talk about our respective businesses. Again, I was proud of how domi-
was that the phrase Just sit on it! was He, an advertising consultant and I, an nant our business was in the Yellow
exactly the way most people today use auto repair service business owner with Pages. At that time, we were in several
phone booksthey make great booster a BA in Business and Marketing, had directories serving our various market-
seats. established an instant rapport. ing areas, and spending a combined
The Avoiding the Yellow Pages Well, when he said that he was total of over $70,000 per year. Some of
Money Pit report is a Yellow Pages in advertising, I couldnt wait to tell our shops were actually spending more
salespersons worst nightmare. They him about our companys marketing on the Yellow Pages than they were on
even try to twist the facts and concepts and advertising strategy. I was very their shop leases. While intuitively, I
in an attempt to discredit the report, proud of how our small regional chain had always thought of the Yellow Pages
itself. Let me assure you, the informa- of auto repair centers had grown in as a necessary evil, I simply could
tion in this report is true and accurate. the recent years. In fact, the U.S. not conceive our not using them to the
Avoiding
Well, my new friend just took a
deep breath, sat back in his chair, and 2400 Latigo Ave Oxnard, CA 93030
Avoiding
offered a long, sincere, all-knowing
sort of an Ive heard this many times
before smile. With this he began to tell
me all anyone ever needs to know about
S a le
Avoiding the Yellow Pages Money
nale 0
O S
On $4.00.00 The
Pit. In that one evening, he taught
The
me enough money saving strategies to
save our company over $30,000.00 in
the first year, alone!
$ 4 0
Yellow Pages
You see he was a sales rep for a
Yellow Pages
major Yellow Pages company before
becoming an advertising consultant.
He not only knew the inside sales
Money Pit!
tricks, schemes, and gimmicks of the
Money Pit!
trade, but he had even helped develop
some of them. He also knew what the
Yellow Pages companies tell us and
more important, what they dont tell
us.
Since that night, I have conduct-
ed additional research and have inter-
viewed other former Yellow Pages
An Insider Reveals
r
How toand
Reduce Your Costs
nars. Ive received feedback from my
osmt Te
Increase Your
o.co mch
I
n an examination of shops that Today, USA Transmissions is a opened under the name AARMCO
are making it work, no discussion model for operating a successful, small Transmissions, a name they used up to
would be complete without taking transmission repair chain. But before about 6 months ago, when they opened
a closer look at USA Transmissions; a we examine their success strategy, itd a shop near an existing AAMCO cen-
5-store transmission repair operation be worth taking a brief look at how they ter. It didnt take long before the larger
northwest of Houston, Texas. got here. chain contacted them, demanding they
USA Transmissions is owned and stop operating under the similar-sound-
operated by Gary and Gerald Vess. The Vess History ing name. Rather than get bogged down
They have five shops, in Cleveland, Gary and Geralds father, Gary by a long, costly courtroom battle,
Conroe, Huntsville, Livingston, and Sr., opened the first of the familys the Vess family changed their business
Lufkin, Texas. transmission shops back in 1981. He name to USA Transmissions.
Precision Internationals state-of-the-part, interactive website, www.transmissionkits.com, is like having one of the worlds
foremost transmission repair experts working by your side. Youve got questions? It has answers. You have installation problems?
It has solutions. Need a part or kit pronto? Look it up. All you have to do is click.
Livingston crew L-R Louis Sanchez, Cleveland crew L-R Doliver Valle, Terry Teufel,
Lee Stevenson, Ed Acker Paden Reed
While still in high school, Gary In the late 90s, Gerald began dab- to Expo, to attend the Whats Working
and Gerald went to work for their bling in real estate with a partner. The seminar program. At the time they
father, working their way through the two opened three tire stores called Tire had three shops, including a Tiremax
ranks to learn the business. Express; this is where Gerald first got owned by Gerald. Gerald had just pur-
But neither of the brothers was par- the idea of turning the family transmis- chased a billboard located between the
ticularly enamored with the transmis- sion shop into a multishop operation. It shops. During the flight to Expo, the
sion repair business or perhaps it was would still be a few years before this two decided that itd be smart for
more about working in a family owned idea would pan out. them to share the billboard, and put
environment so they each moved on In 2003, Gary Jr. and Gerald all the phone numbers on it. This was
to other businesses. Gary went to work opened a second transmission shop in the beginning of their joint business
for a uniform company, while Gerald Huntsville, Texas, called Transmissions venture.
opened a quick lube store. Etc. In addition to transmission repair,
Over the next few years, the two the brothers sold just about anything 5 Recurring Traits
brothers moved around a bit, and took there that they could get their hands While at Expo, they learned about
on different jobs and responsibilities. on. the 5 Recurring Traits of the most
Gerald closed his quick lube store and A year later, Gary bought out his successful businesses. They realized
went to work for a transmission shop in brother, and took over the Huntsville that the first trait Attitude was
Cleveland, Texas. Then he went back to store. one neither had embraced yet. Gerald
work with his father in the AARMCO Meanwhile, Gerald and a partner claims it was after this realization that
shop behind their house. had opened a tire store called Tiremax. he first fell in love with transmission
Gary left the uniform company to Business was good; so good that they repair.
run the transmission shop in Cleveland opened additional stores. They eventu- Next they began to examine their
after Gerald left. ally grew to 10 locations. This expe- business plan and set goals: the sec-
With each move, the Vess brothers rience opened Geralds eyes to the ond recurring trait. It wasnt long after
learned something new that would come processes and benefits of operating a that they decided to merge their busi-
into play in the not-to-distant future as franchise-style operation. nesses into one company. And that
co-owners of USA Transmissions. In 2007, the brothers took a trip was the catalyst for turning those two,
SUPPLIER
MEMBER
USA Transmissions, Houston Area, Texas
independent shops into the business ness end of the company. customers. Its a terrific situation thats
that USA Transmissions is today. So while Gary is making sure the paying off in a big way.
Once they had their plans made, shops maintain their standards for qual-
they began to create the processes and ity and competence, Gerald is out sell- The Chain Mentality
put the systems in place to make them ing their name and their brand to the If you walk into any USA
work; Trait 3. They took what they surrounding communities. Transmissions shop, youll notice that
learned at Expo, and added it to what One of the biggest difficulties faced everything is clean, neat and well orga-
theyd learned in their careers with the by shop owners is focus: Their attention nized. More importantly, if you stop by
tire and quick lube companies, and put usually wavers after they open the shop a second shop, youll see that every-
their ideas on paper. doors. Before the shop opens, all they thing is pretty much the same as it was
They surrounded themselves with do is think about the business: how to in the first shop. The shops look the
the best people they could find advertise it, which business model to same, and they feel the same.
Trait 4 and then they were ready put in place, and how to keep customers One of the things that both broth-
for the last of the 5 Traits: to pull the coming back. ers discovered during their stints with
trigger. They opened their fourth shop But after the shop opens, too many the franchise world is the value of
in Lufkin in 2008, and their fifth in shop owners find themselves over- repeatability. Maintaining a standard
Conroe in June, 2009. whelmed by the day-to-day distractions of appearance creates an identity for
associated with the business. A techni- the shop, enhances the comfort of the
Why It Works cal problem here, a customer complaint customers, and helps the management
One of the things that makes USA there, and all you do is put out fires. identify and correct problems quickly.
Transmissions work is that its owners Thats the great beauty of the Vess In fact, Gary and Gerald have a
mesh so well together. Gary, the older family situation. While Gary handles general manager for their shops, and
brother, likes the hands-on approach of those daily issues of running the busi- one of his jobs is to visit each shop
managing the day-to-day operations of ness, Gerald remains free to address regularly. During his visits he carries
the shops. Gerald is more of an entre- the business at large; creating new ways a clipboard with a 50-point checklist.
preneur, preferring to handle the busi- to keep their name in front of potential The GM looks over each item on the
Huntsville crew L-R Chris Pennington, Lufkin crew L-R Geraldo, Mike Morgan, Woody Bear
Billy Minshew, Eder Dalie
checklist, and identifies whether the area. Thats a lot of valuable ad space; Most shops are only too happy to
item is good or needs attention. far more than one shop could afford work with USA Transmissions, because
This makes it easy to maintain itself. And as any good marketer will they know their customers will be treat-
a level of consistency and quality in tell you, few ads can provide a greater ed well, theyll get quality work at a
the shops appearance and workflow. return on investment than a billboard. fair price, and USA Transmissions will
And it highlights any possible issues stand behind its work.
right away before they can turn into Outside Sales
problems. One of the recognized common Financing Available
Another benefit of the chain men- programs found in the most successful One almost universal problem for
tality is the ability to combine costs, transmission shops is a dedicated out- todays transmission repair shops is
such as the cost of advertising. While side sales program. USA Transmissions money: A substantial number of the
most chain store owners would prob- only reinforces that conclusion, with a folks who come in dont have enough
ably complain about the cost of their fulltime outside sales person. to get their transmissions fixed. And
advertising pool, theres little doubt As with their other advertising, lets face it, if the customer cant afford
about just how much bang they get for USA Transmission shares the outside the repair, it doesnt matter whether
their buck. sales among all five shops. This lowers they trust you or not: You arent going
With five stores sharing the load, their costs per shop, while providing to get the job.
each USA Transmissions shop benefits an excellent means of generating addi- The Vess brothers know this; thats
from far more advertising than it could tional referrals. why they offer financing as a key part
afford on its own. Each ad in the Yellow And in most cases, referrals are of their business. The web site and bill-
Pages references all five stores, so each what theyre looking for. Gary and boards proclaim financing as low as
store gets the benefit of many more Gerald will accept wholesale work, but $10 a month!
books and regions than it could have they prefer referrals from the general And at USA Transmissions, theres
afforded on its own. repair shops in the area. Upon selling never any question about whether the
In addition to the more convention- a rebuild, theyll issue a commission customer will qualify for financing:
al advertising, USA Transmissions cur- to the shop or individual who sent the They have every customer prequalify
rently has 35 billboards in the Houston job. when they first bring their cars in. Cant
Unparalleled One of the highlights of the visit was dinner with Gary Vess Sr. who
Warranty founded AARMCO Transmissions back in 1981. Pictured are Gary and
A rebuilt transmission is a big Gerald with their Dad.
investment, and some customers are
very concerned about a warranty to Gary and Gerald Vess are two If your shop isnt enjoying the suc-
make sure they wont be faced with that brothers whove discovered how to cess that youd like to see, maybe now
kind of bill again. Thats one reason make it work, by taking advantage of would be a good time to start making
ATRA offers its Members the Golden what theyve discovered through their plans to attend this years Expo. And
Rule Warranty program: To help ATRA work in other businesses, along with maybe it wont be long before were
Members compete with the big chains what they learned at ATRAs Expo man- telling your story here in GEARS, as
by providing coast-to-coast coverage. agement program, Whats Working. another shop whos Making It Work!
Of course, providing additional
warranty coverage can provide you
with a competitive edge, and even give
you a way to earn more for your shop.
USA Transmissions offers its cus- Slauson Transmission Parts
tomers a wide range of warranty pro-
grams, all the way up to a 10-year,
100,000-mile warranty! Of course, USA Ca l l now to g e t you r new
charges a lot more for that level of war-
ranty, still some customers take advan- 2010 S la u so n B oo k
tage of the extra coverage it provides.
For others who don't prefer that level
of protection, they also offer 5-year, Use d , N ew & Rebu i l t Har d Par t s , So f t Par t s ,
3-year, 2-year and even a standard
1-year warranty.
E l e c t r ic al C omp one nt s & Fl y w he e ls
Their option based sales strategy is
working for both the customer and USA
Transmissions. O r der online at Slauson .c om
[Editors Note: Offering a longer warranty
at a higher price, without any difference to the O f f e r i n g q u a l i t y p r o d u c t s f r o m t h e s e f i n e ve n d o r s :
actual rebuild, may not be legal in your area.
Some states consider that a form of insurance, Tr a n s t e c R ay b e s t o s D y n a x S o n n a x
and require it to conform to insurance regulations
for that state. Always check with your attorney
S px F i l t r a n L u b e G u a r d Tr a n s g o B o r gWa r n e r
for details regarding warranty issues.] S u p e r i o r R o s t r a Te c k P a k H ayd e n Tr u - C o o l
Another Success A u t o c r a f t AT S G A l l o m a t i c A l t o
Story
Times are tough all over the US
and Canada. But some shops are turn- Phone Hours: Open 7:00 am to 5:00 pm/ PST
ing lemons into lemonade, and making Call (800) 421-5580 Local (310) 768-2099
a terrific living doing it. FAX ( 310) 768-8298
Money is tight for businesses today, and often a strategic plan. And in 25 years of providing
that means reduced marketing efforts. Cutting back marketing, public relations, and creative expertise
may make sense initially, but research and case to a variety of clients, Mustang has seen the
studies have shown companies that maintain importance of strategy time and time again.
a focused marketing approach in a downturn
To build ATRAs RoadMap, we worked
reap benefits, capitalizing on the exposure they
to establish the following:
gain with their competitors sitting on the sidelines.
And since people tend to make repairs to their Goals
current car in these times rather than buying a new
Audience
one, there has never been a better time to market
your shop as an ATRA expert. Message
Vehicles
Mustang Marketing has created a strategic
marketing plan for ATRA known as the RoadMap. Identifying the goals of ATRAs marketing campaign,
Great creative results and successful marketing are the message of that campaign, who will receive
the direct result of a solid foundationa strategic the message, and how the message will be delivered
plan. The same way you would never begin creates the best possible chance of success
building a home without architectural plans, to maximize the marketing investment of time
you should never start actual marketing without and dollars.
Billboards
Easily customizable
templates for your
shops marketing needs
Print Advertising
Building a 5-Volt
Signal Generator by Jon Rodriguez
members.atra.com
Figure 1: Marking and drilling on the backside of the cover will provide a cleaner look when the box is assembled.
F
or me, one of the most reward- EPC solenoid. Oops! 2750601)
ing parts of my job is when So when I tried replacing my trusty Control knob (Radio Shack#
I come across a new way to signal generator, I found out that it was 2740424)
diagnose a problem. When I say new, discontinued. There were other models Speaker terminal plate (Radio
I mean something outside of the basic available but they were expensive. The Shack# 2740632)
diagnostic tree. alternative was to head to my local 1 Megaohm linear potentiom-
This was the case about eight years electronics store and build my own. eter (Radio Shack# 2710211)
ago when I was working in San Diego. Heres what I came up with: Solder
The tool truck guy showed up with this 14-gauge female spade con-
fancy, 5-volt signal generator. Its pur- Parts Needed nector (Blue)
pose was to simulate a varying 5-volt Project box 6 x 3 x 2 (Radio 22-gauge female spade con-
signal for diagnosing a throttle posi- Shack# 2701805) nector x2 (Red)
tion sensor (TPS), mass airflow sensor 3-pack (Red, Green and Black)
(MAF), manifold air pressure sensor of 18-gauge wire (Radio Tools Needed
(MAP) or any other 5-volt based sensor Shack# 2781226) Drill Bits
on a vehicle. 2-pack of banana jacks (Radio o
It cost about $150 and was a handy Shack# 2740725) x2 o 23/64
tool in my arsenal until I fried it. 5-volt regulator (Radio Shack# o 19/64
Apparently theres a difference between 2761770) o 1/8
a 5-volt signal generator and a 5-volt Dual printed circuit board Drill
power source capable of providing (Radio Shack# 2760159) Phillips head screwdriver
enough current to bench load a 4L60E On/off switch (Radio Shack# Soldering iron
Crimper
Preparing the
Project Box
1. Use the back of the aluminum
cover to mark the position for
the on/off switch and potenti-
ometer.
2. Place the aluminum cover on top
of the plastic cover and loosely
fasten both pieces to the project
box with the supplied screws.
3. Drill the holes for the on/off
switch (1/2) and the potentiom-
eter (23/64) (figure 1).
4. Remove the screws and lift the
cover off the project box. Figure 4: The on/off switch and potentiometer will come with all of the
5. Push the potentiometer through mounting hardware.
the 23/64 hole. With the poten-
tiometer leads facing the longest 9. Install the potentiometer into the 14. Screw the speaker plate to the
end of the cover, press and turn plastic and metal cover. project box.
the potentiometer firmly against 10. Install the on/off switch into the
the plastic side of the cover so plastic and metal cover (figure Preparing the Circuit
the alignment peg creates a wear 4). Board
mark in the cover (figure 2). 11. Drill three, 19/64 holes where
6. Remove the potentiometer from you want the banana jacks. The 1. Bend the voltage regulator fin-
the hole. model shown has the continuous gers to 90 (figure 7).
7. With the aluminum cover off, 5-volt signal and ground on one 2. Place the regulator against the
drill a 1/8 hole 90 to the left side, and the varying signal on blank side of the circuit board (figure
of the potentiometer hole, on top the other. I used banana jacks so 8).
of the wear mark you just made. I could use standard voltmeter 3. Solder the contacts to the board.
If done correctly, the alignment leads for testing (figure 5). Be careful: Too much solder could cre-
peg will allow the potentiometer 12. Install the banana jacks into the ate a short to the adjacent circuit.
to sit flush in the cover, and holes. 4. For ease of handling, cut these
the contacts will face the on/off 13. Drill two 19/64 holes at either colored wires 6 in length: 2x Green,
switch. end of the box, 1 from one 2x Black, and 1x Red. Dont worry
8. Cut 1 off the potentiometer another, for the speaker plate about the extra length; theres plenty of
shaft (figure 3). contacts (figure 6). room in the project box to handle the
Figure 5: Some wire leads may have a protective sleeve covering the Figure 6
banana jack that needs to be cut off in order to fit in the outlet. Green.
excess wiring. attach the wires to the board. 2. Strip 3/8 insulation off both ends
5. Strip about 1/16 insulation from Caution: Too much solder will spill of the black wire.
one end of each wire. over to the adjacent contacts and ruin 3. Solder one end of the black wire
6. Push the exposed wire through the circuit board. to the B side of the speaker plate
the appropriate holes on the blank side (black).
of the circuit board (figure 8). Assembling the Box 4. Strip 3/8 insulation off the ground
7. Using a fully heated soldering 1. Cut these colored wires 6 in wire from the circuit board (one of
iron, use a small amount of solder to length: 1x Red, 1x Black, and 1x the black wires).
Exclusive
Member-Only
Credit Card Program
by Jeff Yarbrough,
ATRA Certified Technician
www.atra.com
Figure 1
S
eems like its always the smallest details that can
get us into trouble. When building a unit, these are
details that are easy to miss when interrupted by a
phone call, a question from one of the guys, or just not pay-
ing attention. This was one of those days
The problem was a 95 Jeep Wrangler.It had a 5-speed
AX-15 transmission that was making some very strange
noises when the clutch was disengaged: When you took your
foot off the clutch it would howl and grind.
With the customers approval, we removed the transmis-
sion. We dismantled it to find it had suffered a bad case of
dehydration: a severe lack of vital fluids. It needed a major
overhaul, consisting of a new input
shaft, 3-4 shift fork, cluster gear, all
bearings, brass rings, seals and gas-
kets.
After the customer approved the
final estimate, we cleaned everything
and waited for new parts to arrive.
I usually assemble these units
using a vice as a holding fixture (figure
1). This makes it easy to install both
shafts and then assemble the rest of the
gears and bearings without wrestling it
all over the bench. Additionally, shifter
rods, forks, and interlock balls are
much easier to manage. Once I have
all the internal parts installed, I can
shift the unit through all of its ranges.
Everything worked smoothly at that
point.
After removing it from the vice, I
installed the rear case section and then
the front case section. When it was
all bolted together, everything worked Figure 2
Figure 3 Figure 4
The new 3-4 shift fork had a little keyway arch casting on it that was
hitting the inside of the case (Figure 3) ... ... A few seconds with the air
grinder solved it nicely (Figure 4).
great except it wouldnt go into 4th.3rd gear went in just into 4th perfectly. After removing and reinstalling the front
fine, but as soon as you entered the 4th quadrant the shifter case section several times and inspecting everything, I finally
would lock up. narrowed down the problem:
I removed the front case section and then the unit went I removed the bolt that locked the 3-4 shift fork to the
shifter rod and then reinstalled the front case section with two
bolts. Although the 3-4 shift fork didnt move, it allowed me
to examine the linkage from the shifter, down through the
case, all the way to the shift rod. It shifted smoothly there.
I knew the problem was in the movement of the fork,
slide, keys, etc., but everything looked great when I could see
it with the front case off. After pulling out some more of
my hair, I started looking inside the front case where the rod
operates and thats when I saw the problem. Right where the
3-4 shift fork would be operating back and forth, I could see
something had been scratching the inside of the case (Figure
2).
The new 3-4 shift fork had a little keyway arch casting on
it that was hitting the inside of the case (Figure 3). Turns out
it was too tall by just a few thousandths of an inch enough
to strike the inside of the case and basically wedge the shift
rod as it approached 4th gear.
A few seconds with the air grinder solved it nicely (Figure
4). Apparently the new 3-4 shift fork had been cast with just
a little too much material left in that area or maybe the
casting of the case had just a few thousandths left there. The
difference was hardly noticeable, but it was enough to cause a
problem. Good thing I had checked its operation before I put
the trans back into the car!
It was just one of those days; nothing I did wrong, but the
fates were conspiring against me. In the end, I won, and all it
took was a few extra minutes to pay attention to the details.
Keep It Going!
by Kelly Hilmer
members.atra.com
N
ow more than ever its important to make sure youve
got a good message for consumers and youre doing
everything you can to reach them. In the last issue, we
discussed ATRAs plan to reach more consumers and make them
more aware of the benefits to selecting an ATRA member shop.
There are a lot of great reasons for a consumer to choose an ATRA
member shop but up until now its been one of the publics best
kept secrets. Since the last reporting in Gears, ATRA has received
even more press; bringing more attention to consumers. Most nota-
bly, thereve been articles in the New York Times, Detroit News
and Progressive Insurance. There was also a mention of an ATRA
member, Dales A-1 Transmissions in Mitchell South Dakota in
the New Republic. Which makes the point that there are a lot of
ways ATRA and ATRA members can keep this effort going. Using
the ATRA logo in all your advertising will help increase the brand-
ing of ATRA and its members; working to create insistence for an
ATRA member shop in the minds of the consumer.
Hotel Accommodations G
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Mention ATRA to get discounted rate
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at Rio Ci
Full Texas style buffet
Enjoy the pleasant sounds of the resident country fiddler
Feed the resident Texas Longhorn cattle in the big Texas sized RCR Rodeo Arena
Listen to stories of the Old West & Texas Revolution while roasting marshmellows by the fire
Jump on for a hay wagon ride throughout the ranch or try some Texas linedancing
Look for more information to come in the May/June issue of GEARS!
o September 9 - 12, 2010 3
Which works best for you?
September 9-12
GEARS does not endorse new products but makes this new information available
POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS Valve Body PRO is excited
factured Valve Bodies
to offer
to readers. If youremanu-
forapplicable
with
have a new product, please email the press release information
the Volvodigital
TF-80SC.
photo or drawing to fpasley@atra.com or send by mail to
Valve Body PRO hasGEARS, researched
2400 theLatigo
valveAvenue, Oxnard, CA 93030.
body issues that affect the shifting characteris-
tics of late model Volvo models which use the
TF80SC transmission. One of the problem
TRC Extends Spring late involves
areas units. excessive wear in the 5 accumu- lator piston into the bore wall.
Jacket Promotion to The Most
lator bores. kit works by increasing
of the accumulator borescon- Bob Sanghera, CEO of Valve Body
GEARS Subscribers tact signs
show area, of
reducing the which
surface loss pressure between
creates an PRO said, After studying the pos-
out-of-round bore.and
the pin spacer In addition,
piston some
by moreof thethan sible remedies, we came to the conclu-
bores are heavily notched by the
60%. Durability is further enhanced constant rub- sion the only way to solve it was to
bing of the accumulator piston into the bore
with the addition of a belleville
wall. Bob Sanghera, CEO of Valve body PRO spring have new high quality aluminum inserts
washer
said, Aftertostudying
reducetheshock
possible during servo
remedies, we installed.
apply.
came to the conclusion the only way to solve it In addition to the usual overhaul
was toThis
have new
kit high
can quality aluminumasinserts
be installed part of the valve body, these inserts bring
installed. In addition to the usual overhaul of
of the normal assembly procedure and
the valve body, these inserts bring the accumu-
the accumulator bore diameter back to
doesnt
lator requireback
bore diameter anyto modifications
factory specs. or factory specs.
special tools. For more information, visit www.
Forinformation,
For more more information,
visit visit Sonnax valvebodypros.com or call toll free
www.valvebodypros.com or call toll free
on line at www.sonnax.com. 1-877-611-7767.
1-877-611-7767
PTEN
machined gasket flange for a leak-free Corporation and ICI Paints. During
seal. his tenure with ICI, Jim held
Arizona several ArizonaMachine
transmission Transmission
eZ-DriVer set
The transmission pan has stock marketing and sales positions including Machine EZ-DRIVER Set
capacity and is 3 1/8-inches tall from director of marketing support. Machine introduced
A
rizona Transmission
the gasket surface to the fin top so its Transtar would like to congratulate
its EZ-DRIVER bear-
ing installation sets. The
slightly taller than stock. Jim and looks forward toable,a with thriving
Master set is highly adapt-
a series of 28
any metal bits, keeping the oil cleaner. Full Spectrum a shaft. Create more than
200 different usable setups.
Theres also a cast-in boss that can be All-In-One Dye EZ-DRIVER offers versatil-
ity for working on compo-
machined for a temperature sensor. Pinpoints All Leaks nents from bearings to seals,
gears, hubs and sleeves.
Berry to VP of Marketing
"It's compact and out of the way for shops with Nice brace tools and a lot of good flat tools too.
improves little room,"
fits on the rack.
leak
Tom said. "This is introduced tings
all really nice how it itsyou'reEZ-DRIVER
"The tools are soft so that they don't
trying to get in," Dan said.
bear-
mar the fit-
Western Europe sat side by- side - with costs and help keep prices in check.
their counterparts from - Eastern
- Europe The company also began participat-
and the Middle East, a reflection of
www.Adapt-A-Case.com ing in a Power Shed Program in coop-
www.Adapt-A-Case.com
the automotive industrys increasing- eration with the electric company.Under
ly global nature. Attendees included popular, air-assisted undercar transmis- this program, Sonnax will operate on
Sonnax representatives as well as indi- sion jacks: Gray, Snap-on/Bluepoint its generator when requested to help
viduals from Belgium, Germany, Latvia, and NAPA. reduce power consumption in the local
Sweden, the Netherlands, Poland, Answering challenges with prof- grid demand. All of these initiatives com-
Russia, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, the itable solutions. www.Adapt-A-Case. plement an ongoing commitment to recy-
UK and the US. com. cling and minimizing material waste.
Working with industry leaders in
the European automotive aftermarket CORTECO Introduces Transtar Promotes Nancy
is one of the most important ways in New GM 4T65E Kit Parker to VP of Corporate
which Sonnax pursues timely, effec- CORTECO now offers 4T65E kits Human Resources
tive product development, said Steve with the molded rubber side cover gasket. Transtar Industries, Inc., the pre-
Jassaud, Sonnax VP of Sales. The TransTec kit number 2549 covers the mier provider of world-class driveline
recent TASC Force meeting was an traditional 1997-up 4T65E found in General solutions, is pleased to announce the
opportunity to demonstrate that we are Motors models; kit number 2550 covers promotion of Nancy Parker to vice pres-
listening and responding with real solu- 1999-up Volvo applications. ident of corporate human resources.
tions for transmission rebuilders around Both kits include the molded pan gas- Parker, with 20-plus years of
the world. ket as well as the molded side cover gas- experience in HR management, joined
ket. Transtar in December, 2006, as director
Adapt-A-Jack, Heres whats included in these kits: of human resources.
Safety is #1 Nancy is a highly experienced
Safety is the #1 priority on the shop TransTec HR professional, said Greg Gyllstrom,
Description
floor. Many automatic transmissions Number president and CEO of Transtar
have irregularly shaped oil pans. Ford B29046 Front Seal Industries. Her leadership was instru-
RWDs are known for this, typically mental to the successful integration dur-
making necessary the use of chunks of B29047 Left Axle Seal ing our merger with Axiom Automotive
wood to level the unit on the jack to B37024 Right Axle Seal Technologies, Inc.
ready it for installation. Ask any R&R Nancys manufacturing and dis-
B36455 Molded Side Cover Gasket
tech and theyre likely to admit to how tribution career includes plant, divi-
awkward this can be. Unfortunately, B33212 Molded Pan Gasket sion and corporate level positions with
too often we find this out when we hear blue chip companies such as Cooper
3448 Sealing Ring Kit
an expletive shortly before a crash. Or Industries, Cummins Engine, Goodrich
when the tech is out for a week laid up For more information, visit them Aerospace and Invacare. Nancy has a
with a strained back or, worst case, their on line at www.TransTec.com. BS degree in Biology/Psychology, and
career is ended. a MA in labor relations/HR.
We decided to put pen to paper to Sonnaxs Green Initiative Transtar would like to congratulate
solve this problem. On Dec. 30, 2009, Sonnax began gen- Nancy and looks forward to a thriving
Weve developed this sturdy solu- erating electricity from the solar photo- future with her.
tion that has already been hailed as the voltaic power-generation system installed
new must-have shop item. Adapt- on the roof of its corporate headquarters
A-Jack is designed to fit the most in Vermont. An impressive array of 424
DOMESTIC-FOREIGN-
Lifetime Fluids / Rebuild Kits / Valvebody Kits
AUTOMATIC-STANDARD 1-800-388-4418
Fax: (860) 395-0047
1946 - 2009
www.erikssonindustries.com
1-800-835-1007 146B Elm St., Old Saybrook, CT 06475
**COMPUTERS**
Transmission Control Module
ECM & TCM
Mitsubishi-Honda-Hyundai-GEO Heated Cooler
Kia-Mazda-Nissan-Suzuki-Toyota Line Flusher
BOSCH ECM
GM - Ford - Chrysler - Dodge 800-725-6499
Next Day Air Shipping Available 417-725-6400
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Ford *GM * Chrysler off vehicle Dyno/CV
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BMW Mercedes-Benz Audi R COMPLETE UNITS OR TRANSFER CASE PARTS
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GEARS April 2010 61
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SHOPPER CLASSIFIED April 2010
GEARS classified advertising cost $95.00 for up to 50 words for a one time insertion. ATRA members are eligible to receive up to three (3) FREE classified
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Please enclose check or money order in U.S. funds and send to:
CALENDAR
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4/17/10 Boston, MA
2010
ATRA Technical Seminar Schedule
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