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Ads_June2018.indd 500 5/31/2018 08:19:10

 GEARS FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

JUNE 2018
PHONE (805) 604-2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Publisher Dennis Madden

Managing Editor Rodger Bland
Technical Director Lance Wiggins
Advertising Ruben Vera Saving Headaches: Toyota Planetary Gearsets Pressure and Vacuum Diagnosis,
Senior Designer Jeanette Troub Solenoids and Valve Bodies in a Honda? Part III: Running Compression
Page 8 Page 14 Page 28
Graphic Artist Aurelio Peña

Contributing Editors: Steve Bodofsky

Sean Boyle
Scott Shotton
Jim Cathcart
Thom Tschetter SPECIAL INTEREST & TECHNICAL
Steve Garrett

ATRA Technical Staff: 4 4x4 Mayhem: Diagnosing DTC C0306 for the American Axle
Rolando (Rolly) Alvarez Bill Brayton (AAM) Transfer Case
Mike Brown Keith Clark
Rob Faucett Pete Huscher — by Steve Garrett
Darwin Upton Shaun Velasquez
8 TALES FROM THE BENCH: Saving Headaches: Toyota Solenoids
Jarad Warren
and Valve Bodies
Director of Event Services Vanessa Velasquez
— Jarad Warren

The views expressed in this publication should not necessarily be interpreted 14 Planetary Gearsets in a Honda?
as the official policy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA). — by Sean Boyle
Publication of product information or any advertising does not imply recommenda-
tion by ATRA. 24 HEAVY METAL: 2009 Honda Has Mysterious Noise
GEARS , a publication of ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030,
is published for the betterment of the transmission industry and is distributed and Won't Shift Intermittently
ten times per year. No part of this issue may be reproduced without prior written — by Rolly Alvarez
permission of the publisher. GEARS is distributed to members of the transmis-
sion industry in the United States, Canada, ATRA Members in Mexico & Europe, 28 IN FRONT OF THE FLYWHEEL: Pressure and Vacuum Diagnosis,
and related automotive industry firms and individually. Send changes of address
to GEARS in care of ATRA. Subscriptions are available by contacting GEARS in Part III: Running Compression
care of ATRA.
— by Scott Shotton
Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full liability for all content of adver-
tisements printed and also assume full responsibility for any claims arising there- 34 UP YOUR BUSINESS: Don't Aspire to Be Great
from against the publisher. The publisher reserves the unqualified right to reject any
advertising copy as it deems appropriate, with or without cause. — by Thom Tschetter
GEARS is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard
to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding the publisher 38 SUCCESS STRATEGIES: Think About It
is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional service. If legal — by Jim Cathcart
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
40 2018 TCRA Event a Rousing Success
by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers.
GEARS also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. GEARS — by Steve Bodofsky
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 44 ATRA'S POWERTRAIN EXPO 2018 GUIDE
would like to submit an article to GEARS, include background information about
the author and a telephone number where he/she may be reached. If you want 56 Shop Equipment and Tools Showcase
submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

DEPARTMENTS
Editorial and Business Offices
2400 Latigo Avenue,
Oxnard CA 93030
Phone (805) 604-2000
Fax (805) 604-2006
www.gearsmagazine.com
2 FROM THE TECH DIRECTOR:
www.atra.com Casting a Positive Note to the Industry
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GEARS, P.O. Box 16118, — by Lance Wiggins GM 6T70/75 & Ford 6F50/55
6T70/6F55 Pump Chain Alignment Tool

North Hollywood, CA 91615-6118 Be sure to check out the

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The 6T70/6F55 Pump PART# K0141
Allows in car
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testing of main

Publications Mail Agreement No. 40031403

unique features allow

60 POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS Shop Equipment and

case to determine
you to size the converter
integrity of clutch
stator sealing ring as
packs/rings/
well as align the pump
sealing areas
gear, washers and chain
and isolate a bad

Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to:

onto the sprockets,
TECHM/VB from

Tools Showcase
keeping it taught and on
the internals. When a defect is determined in a specific internal
the sprockets. Our tool
component you’re able to identify & correct it quickly. Use also
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63 SHOPPERS AND CLASSIFIED

present and you’re chasing your tail.

Page 56
SUPERIOR TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC. SUPERIOR TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC.
1-800-451-3115 • www.superiortransmission.com 1-800-451-3115 • www.superiortransmission.com

Email: gears@atra.com 8 GEARS June 2018

Issue #225 Printed in U.S.A. Copyright ATRA 2018 68 LIST OF ADVERTISERS

1TOC-0618v2.indd 2 5/31/18 8:50 AM

 FROM THE TECH DIRECTOR
Casting a Positive
Note to the Industry
W
hen you have a passion
to serve, it tends to
overcome your life in
a positive way. Opening the door for
someone… letting people go before
you… asking if there’s anything else
you can do for them… it’s these types
of core values that make you who you
are.
For me, I’ve always been told
you can’t get anywhere doing nothing;
you have to work at being the best. I
don’t consider myself to be the best at
anything; there’s always someone out
there who’s better. For me, that just
means I need to push myself to be better
and learn as much as I can.
I listen to audio books, consistently
get trained by factory courses, and listen
to podcasts. Which brings me to our
Transmission Coaching Podcast: Just
another way to get valuable information
with ease.
ATRA’s Transmission Coaching
Podcast is our way of adding
information to the industry in an easy-
to-use format. This has been our goal
for some time and recently, Virtual
Training has become our path to allow
you to continue your education with
your time in mind.
The Transmission Coaching
Podcast, powered by ATRA, is now
part of our continuing education.
Sponsored by GEARS Magazine, this
new educational podcast is taking its
first steps into our industry.
There’s something to be said about
your time… there’s a value placed on
it. We recognize that and have taken
steps to offer you something to listen
to during your drive home or in the
background in your office.
2 GEARS June 2018
1frmTechDir618.indd 2
You can view the podcasts on
YouTube at the ATRA and GEARS
Magazine channel or search
Transmission Coaching Podcast on the
YouTube™ search bar. You can also
download the podcast from iTunes:
Simply search Transmission Coaching
Podcast in the iTunes™ store. Keep
your eye out for the logo.
With ATRA’s new Virtual
Training and our podcast, we’re going
to revolutionize your continuing
by Lance Wiggins
members.atra.com
education. The opportunity for you to
get your training on the way home or on
your phone is now a reality. Where else,
or better yet, who else, is putting your
career path first?
Your training is important to
ATRA: By the time this article comes
out, ATRA’s new repair center will
be at your fingertips. You’ll have the
opportunity to listen or view the various
podcasts and, coming soon, a futuristic
learning tool to propel you to where you
want to be in this industry. In episode three, we had special-
Each podcast will feature guest Thom Tschetter, who’ll be hosting
informative and intriguing information a session at this year’s Expo along with
regarding our industry — some some other industry veterans. This was
management, others tech, still others a very informative podcast that brought
just a good, old-fashioned sit-down some interesting business practices to
with industry veterans. life.
Our first episode featured Vanessa There have been a few more and
Velasquez, ATRA events director, and our plan is to bring you a new and
Rodger Bland, managing editor for informative podcast every week. If
GEARS Magazine. We discussed what you’d like to be a part of the podcast
happens behind the scenes and what it or have some ideas you’d like to share,
takes to put the ATRA Powertrain Expo email me at lwiggins@atra.com.
together. It’s a great time to be fixing
In the second episode, Vanessa and transmissions… so let’s keep fixing
I talked about education in our industry transmissions together!
and what it takes to be a leader…
teaching technicians how to get their
training and staying on top of their craft.
5/31/18 8:57 AM
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C
hange happens even when you
don’t realize it. Change in this
industry is happening quickly
and that trend will continue for several
years to come. All too often, you’re
expected to repair problems you’ve
never seen before, often part of an
unfamiliar system or component.
The lack of familiarity and
understanding with the system or
component can be frustrating as you
fight your way through to diagnose and
repair something you know little or
nothing about.
One such experience deals with a
little-known AAM transfer case system
(RPO NQV) used in 2013-2014 GMC
Canyon/Chevrolet Colorado mid-size
4 GEARS June 2018
1SteveGarrett-0618.indd 4
pickups. The 2012-and-
earlier applications used
an Isuzu T-150 transfer
case, while the 2015-and-
later applications use a Magna
Powertrain (MP) transfer case.
The transfer cases used in the 2013-
2014 applications were manufactured
by AAM, better known as American
Axle Manufacturing, located in
Detroit. The AAM transfer case is a
little different from some transfer case
systems, especially when it comes to
electronic operation and what you can
expect to see on your scan tool.
At this point, you may be
wondering why I chose to write about
a transfer case that was only used for a
by Steve Garrett
members.atra.com
little while. The reason? I’ve been asked
to help diagnose several vehicles that
were having transfer case issues. Before
we get into the actual issue, let’s take
a bird’s-eye view of the AAM transfer
case.
The AAM transfer case is a part-
time, 2-speed, electronically shifted unit
very similar to some of the New Process
and MP transfer cases used in many
truck applications. The transfer case
6/1/18 12:13 PM
 Before you start your diagnosis, make sure you locate a wiring diagram.

is controlled by
a standalone transfer
case control module, which is
located behind the glovebox.
The bidirectional shift motor mounts
to the back of the transfer case and controls a mode
and a range fork inside the unit. 4WD low range achieves a
2.62:1 ratio, while high range is 1:1.
As with many other transfer cases, you can make “on
the fly” shifts between 2WD and 4WD, but shifting into
or out of 4WD low range will require that you place the
transmission shifter into neutral, with road speed less than
2 MPH. If the shift fails to occur, the indicator lamp on the
dash-mounted rotary switch will flash for 30 seconds before
lighting the previous range LED.
To shift the transfer case to neutral, rotate and hold the
switch past 4WD low position. With the transmission in
neutral or the clutch pedal depressed, the red, neutral LED
on the switch will light.
To shift the transfer case, you’ll need to rotate the
switch to the desired position. There are several fixed
resistors inside the switch. The TCCM provides five volts to
the switch and simply monitors the voltage drop across the
switch resistors to determine the range the customer desires. Remove the connectors and visually inspect for corrosion.

GEARS June 2018 5

1SteveGarrett-0618.indd 5 5/31/18 8:57 AM

 4x4 Mayhem: Diagnosing DTC C0306 for the American Axle (AAM) Transfer Case
Wiring diagrams will help you understand what controls what.
Once the TCCM receives the
voltage signal from the switch, it
commands the TCCM motor drivers
to reposition the motor to the desired
position. The TCCM knows the motor’s
position based on values received from
an incremental sensor mounted in the
motor.
In addition, the TCCM energizes
a clutch synchronizer coil to make the
2WD-to-4WD shift, preventing gear
clash during the shift. The synchronizer
coil mounts on the output shaft and
takes the place of the conventional
synchronizer cone or ring and shift
sleeve used in many other transfer case
applications.
Now that you understand how the
system is supposed to operate, let’s look
at an issue you’re likely to run into:
DTC C0306. One thing to remember
regarding DTCs on today’s vehicles is
Transfer Case
Transfer Range Selection
Case Range Switch Reference
Voltage
2WD High 4.7–5.3 V
4WD High 4.7–5.3 V
4WD Low 4.7–5.3 V
Neutral 4.7–5.3 V
6 GEARS June 2018
1SteveGarrett-0618.indd 6
that many, including GM and Toyota,
display more than just basic DTC
information.
This DTC is a good example. The
DTCs are displayed as 7-digit codes
rather than the old 5-digit codes. The
last two digits are symptom codes and
can be quite helpful. In this case, you
may find something that looks like this:
C0306-01 — short to battery
C0306-02 — short to ground
C0306-04 — open or high
resistance
C0306-F1 — performance issue
So what does it take to set these
DTCs?
• The TCCM supplies voltage to
each of the motor circuits and
reads the return voltage on the
other circuit (voltage drop).
• If the TCCM detects incorrect
voltage drop, it’ll set a DTC.
Transfer Case Range
Selection Switch Voltage
Range Normal
1.8–2.2 V 2.0 V
2.8–3.2 V 3.0 V
1.3–1.7 V 1.5 V
2.5 V Held
2.3–2.7 V
1.5 V Released
Specifications are just as important.
• The fault must be present for at
least four seconds to set the DTC.
On the suspect vehicles, the DTCs
that set were C0306-04, indicating we
had high resistance somewhere. As I
always point out in seminars, start with
the basics and keep it simple. The basics
start with a visual inspection.
Since we were dealing with a
high-resistance issue and the motor is
exposed to the elements, I started with
the motor connector. A simple visual
inspection of the connector is all it may
take to diagnose the issue.
We replaced the connector with
a pigtail, which solved the issues.
Many times a simple repair is all that’s
necessary to solve your problems, so try
not to get “lost in the forest,” which is
easy to do when working on something
you’ve never seen before.
Range Actuator Position
Sensor (º)
Range Normal
85º–115º
100º
35º–84º Allowed
5º–35º 25º
310º–355º 330º
190º–200º 195º
5/31/18 8:57 AM
 Synthetic Fluids.

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Ads_June2018.indd 7 5/31/2018 08:18:53

 TALES FROM THE BENCH

by Jarad Warren
members.atra.com

A
fter a rebuild, Toyota transmis-
sions can have shifting issues
and TCC complaints that drive
you crazy. If you take a few precautions,
you can cut down a lot of the headaches.
Some of the main causes for these
issues trace back to the valve body,
solenoids, and contamination.
For this article, we’re going to talk
about Toyota transmissions as a general
group. Toyota five- and six-speeds have
a lot of common operating components.
The linear style solenoid control
pressure, shifts, and lockup operate
almost identically in each model.
The valve body also has some Example of Solenoid Disassembly Tool Made by Omega Machine & Tool
general issues across the Toyota
transmission group. We’ll point you in Figure 1
the right direction so you know where
to look for wear in these valve bodies. the transmission cooler to get the debris up valves or replace solenoids because
out of it. That works well sometimes. of fine contamination, that’ll cost way
RADIATOR AND Many Toyotas come in with case more than a radiator. Often replacing
TRANSMISSION COOLER wear and planet damage, and most the radiator will eliminate reworks or
When a car comes in with 120,000 come in with TCC converter issues. no-goes on your lift.
miles, we all know some parts are at These different issues cause a lot of
the end of their lives. The radiator is very fine debris that we don’t always SOLENOID ISSUES
one of them. see or get out of the coolers. Solenoid issues can cause line
Over time, the radiator gets This fine debris can cause a lot of pressure, lockup, and shift issues. One
buildup inside the cooling system and headaches, usually when on a road test of the main problems with the solenoids
isn’t able to cool the engine as well as and the transmission gets hot. This is is contamination. The solenoids you
it did when it was new. When the when that fine debris shakes loose from need to clean and inspect most are the
engine is running hotter than normal, the cooler and finds its way into the SLT, SL1, SL2, SL3, and SLU
the transmission runs hotter too. And, valve body and solenoids. solenoids.
as we all know, heat cuts into the life I know what you’re thinking: “We There are a few different tools on
of a transmission. can’t afford to install a new radiator.” the market to take the solenoids apart
The other thing a lot of techs don’t Maybe the better point is, how can you for cleaning. One is by Omega Machine
think about much is the transmission afford not to change the radiator? If and Tool, they offer a tool for the larger
cooler inside the radiator. We all flush you have to remove valve body to free can SLT and SLU solenoids (figure 1).
8 GEARS June 2018

1jarad 0618.indd 8 5/31/2018 08:02:10

Ads_June2018.indd 9 5/31/2018 08:18:55
 Saving Headaches: Toyota Solenoids and Valve Bodies

Figure 2

They also sell the bushing for inside

the solenoid. These tools and bushing
may also be available at your local
transmission parts supplier. After you
have repaired two solenoids, the tool
will have paid for itself.
After you get the SLT or SLU
solenoid apart (figure 2), look at its
snout. Make sure the valve is free in its
bore. If you have to take the valve out
of the snout, make sure you mark it and
count the turns to remove it. You need
to make sure it goes back in the same
position and depth when you put it
back together.
On the can side of the solenoid,
you’ll need to make sure the plunger is
free. Some of the solenoids will have
bushings in them and some will have Example of Solenoid Disassembly Tool Made by Cottingham Engineering
just a plunger. The point is to make
Figure 3
sure the plunger is clean and free so the
solenoid can operate correctly.
The plunger clearance is very
tight: If any fine debris gets into the
solenoid, it’ll stick. This is why a new
radiator is so important.
Now let’s look at the SL1, SL2,
and in some cases, the SL3 solenoids.
These solenoids control clutch apply-
and-release timing and shift feel. To
get these solenoids apart, you need a
different tool because the size of the
can is different.
Cottingham Engineering is another
company that sells tools to get these SL Figure 4
solenoids apart (figure 3). They’re in
the UK but there are U.S. suppliers. three times and found nothing wrong. would have left the shop working great
These solenoids have the same issues: I got the valve body and started taking the first time.
sticking solenoid plungers and the the solenoids apart. With the use of these tools, you
valve sticking in the snout. The SL1 solenoid had a stuck valve can tear apart, clean, and reassemble
Let’s look at an SL1 solenoid from due to contamination. They bought a the expensive solenoids with great
an A750 transmission (figure 4). The new valve body with solenoids and success. If you aren’t into fixing your
technician who was working on the fixed the issues. If they had the tools to solenoids, you can still use the tool to
transmission had the valve body apart clean the solenoids, the transmission prove you found a sticking solenoid.
10 GEARS June 2018

1jarad 0618.indd 10 5/31/2018 08:02:15

Ads_June2018.indd 11 5/31/2018 08:19:00
 Saving Headaches: Toyota Solenoids and Valve Bodies

Lockup Lockup B1 Clutch Apply

Relay Control

A750
Upper Body 1
Inspect all these
valves for wear
Solenoid or looseness.
Regulator

Figure 5

12 GEARS June 2018

1jarad 0618.indd 12 5/31/2018 08:02:22

 Example of Sonnax
Example of Transgo Repair Tool Valve Repair Kit

Figure 6 Figure 7

VALVE BODY
Valve body wear is very common,
and Toyota is no exception. Some of
the areas on these valve bodies you
need to check are the lockup relay
valve, TCC control valve, solenoid
regulator valve, boost valve, and the
clutch apply control valves.
On a Toyota A750, lockup issues
are a big problem. Let’s take a look at a
couple areas that need to be repaired
on this valve body (figure 5).
On this valve body, the lockup
relay valve bore is part of the valve
body casting. When this bore wears
(figure 6), you have problems with con-
trol lockup slip, TCC chatters, bump
on shifts, and erratic lockup apply and Example of Sonnax Valve Repair Kit
release. Sonnax and Transgo both have
tools to repair this. The main thing is Figure 8
to address this valve bore and repair it.
The solenoid regulator valve is Always check the boost bushing in and the boost bushings. Follow it up
almost always worn on Toyota Toyotas. They love to stick and wear with a good clean rebuild and replace
transmissions. You’ll need to inspect and cause all kinds of issues with the the radiator.
the valve bore for wear and repair it. pressure regulator boost valve, lockup Address these few areas on your
Sonnax and Transgo both have simple valve, and the clutch boost bushing Toyota rebuilds and your Toyota
repairs for this bore (figure 7). Most of (figure 8). headaches will be reduced dramatically.
the repairs are drop-in parts and The procedure is simple for
require no special tools. If the oil to the Toyotas: Clean or replace the linear-
solenoids isn’t correct, the solenoids style solenoids, along with repairing
can’t operate correctly. That’s why this worn areas in the valve body at the
bore needs your attention. solenoid regulator, TCC relay valve,
GEARS June 2018 13

1jarad 0618.indd 13 5/31/2018 08:02:27

 by Sean Boyle
SIUC Automotive Technology

I
n 2013, when I presented the Honda
6-speed at Expo in Washington,
D.C., I speculated that Honda was
pushing their traditional helical gearset
design to the max. Their 6-speed
transmission weighs about 250 lbs
without fluid, it’s about 15.5” long, and
it has a whopping five shafts to deliver
six speeds and reverse.
With the competition moving to
eight and nine speeds, something had
to give. Well, Honda engineers haven’t
been resting on their laurels. In recent
years, Honda has engineered new
CVTs for their smaller vehicles and
the 4-cylinder Accord, a dual clutch
transmission (DCT) 7-speed for the
Acura RLX hybrid, and an 8-speed Figure 1
DCT fitted into the Acura ILX and
TLX models.
The DCT8 transmission is covered
in the Oct/Nov 2017 and Jan/Feb
2018 issues of GEARS and you can
also find it online. Even the Acura
NSX has a new 9-speed DCT. This
is all in addition to the ZF 9-speed
transmission used in their Acura
MDX, Honda Pilot, and Odyssey.
How can they top all of that?
Well, Honda plunged head-first into
planetary gearsets by designing and
manufacturing a 10-speed automatic
transmission with four planetary
gearsets and a special 2-way clutch
that allows a ratchet-type mechanical
clutch to either lock in both directions
or allow the gearset to freewheel in
one direction.
Honda introduced the 10-speed in
the 2018 Honda Odyssey and Acura
RLX. Compared to the 6-speed, the
10-speed is a solid inch shorter and Figure 2

14 GEARS June 2018

1SeanBoyle 0618.indd 14 5/31/2018 08:03:27

 weighs about 30lbs less! The gearset,
including the clutches, is a mere 10”
long. The gearset and clutches are very
compact (figure 1).

MECHANICAL
COMPONENTS
Trying to understand the powerflow
for all ten speeds and reverse is a head-
ache in the making. To make some
sense of it (and any new transmission
that I take apart), I often draw up a
simple schematic representing how the
gears connect to each other and how
the clutches drive/hold specific gearset
combinations. This transmission didn’t
end up being so simple (figure 2).
There are four planetary gearsets
shown, with gearset one (P1) to the
far right and gearset four (P4) to the
far left.
The illustration shows the transmis-
sion operating in first gear. Brake 1 (B1),
brake 2 (B2), and the 2-way clutch
(TWC) are holding everything colored
in black. Some common connections
you might make out include:
• The input shaft has the P3 sun
Figure 3
gear splined to it, so it’s always
considered an input. The input shaft
also drives the C1 clutch and the
C3 clutches. These are all indicated
in red on the illustration (figure 2),
and the bottom of figure 3 shows the
input shaft, P3 sun gear, and C1 and
C3 clutches.
• P1 internal, P3 carrier, and P4
carrier are all splined together. This
is indicated in purple and it’s the
middle gearset in figure 3.
• P1 carrier and P2 carrier are splined
together. These carriers are held
stationary by the 2-way clutch in
reverse and first and they freewheel
in all other gears. The illustration
shows these gears in black.
Have a look at the P1 planetary,
P2 planetary, and the TWC (figure 4).
Also shown is the P1 sun gear and hub
for B1, the P4 sun gear and C2 clutch
(and hub) which allows the P4 sun gear
to either be held by the B2 brake or be
connected to P3 internal and P2 sun.
Confusing, isn’t it? Nobody ever
said squeezing ten forward speeds
into a transmission with six hydraulic
clutches and one mechanical clutch
would be easy. Figure 4

GEARS June 2018 15

1SeanBoyle 0618.indd 15 5/31/2018 08:03:33

 Planetary Gearsets in a Honda?

The two-way clutch is an interesting

piece (figures 5 and 6). It operates as a
ratchet, or diode style one-way clutch,
but on the other side of the clutch is a
mechanism that locks the mechanical
clutch and prevents it from freewheel-
ing in either direction (figures 7 and 8).
It’s actuated by a lever, which is
hydraulically positioned by a servo
valve in the valve body. The valve
body has a stroke sensor to monitor the
position of the servo valve and lever.
This transmission uses three
hydraulic driving clutches and three
hydraulic brake clutches. The C1 clutch
Figure 5
has a pressed-on metal clad seal in the
drum, which you can pop out using
a pry bar. At first I thought this seal
was molded into the drum, but after
I destroyed it in the name of research,
I was able to pop it off (figure 9).
Aside from that, the clutches are
unremarkable. All the driving clutches
use balance pistons and don’t have
orifices or checkballs to drain the fluid
when not applied.
It’s evident that the engineers
were making every effort to reduce
the overall length of the transmission.
Examples include:
• The design of C1 piston seal.
• An internal retaining snap ring for Figure 6
the carrier in P1 to the housing for
P2.
• The use of the P2 internal gear as a
surface for the output gear.
• The elliptical torque converter.
• The off-axis oil pump, which is
chain-driven (figure 10).
You can easily air check all the
clutches with the valve body removed
(figure 11). According to the service
manual, there’s no line pressure test
procedure since the TCM can monitor
oil pressures from the various pressure
switches. If you feel the need to check
pressure, there are C1 and C2 pressure
taps located on the case.
The valve body is loaded with
electronics (figure 12). The top of
the valve body includes eight linear
clutch pressure control solenoids (CPC),
four shift solenoids, and six pressure
sensors. The underside of the valve
body includes another three solenoids
(for a total of 15 solenoids!), two stroke
sensors, and a transmission fluid tem-
perature sensor (figure 13). Figure 7 Figure 8

16 GEARS June 2018

1SeanBoyle 0618.indd 16 5/31/2018 08:03:41

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 Planetary Gearsets in a Honda?

Figure 9 Figure 10

The good news is that they

don’t need a range reference sen-
sor since there’s no manual valve.
The TCM controls everything
regarding clutch application and the
park actuator electro-hydraulically
engages the park rod to lock the
vehicle in park.
This brings up an interesting
point, which will likely become
mainstream in the coming years.
With the influx of auto-stop type
vehicles (engines that shut off
when the vehicle comes to a stop Park Rod
and restarts when you release
the brake pedal), the automotive
manufacturers are providing a
means to electronically engage
park for safety reasons.
Think about potential safety B2
C1
issues:
• The customer comes to a stop in
their driveway or a parking lot
and the engine enters auto stop.
• The customer gets distracted for
a moment and forgets to place
the vehicle in park.
• The customer gets out of the
vehicle and the engine starts, C3
allowing the vehicle to pull
away.
In this example and without TWC Lever
the use of safety features, when the
brake pedal is released, the engine B1 B3 C2
starts back up and the vehicle
attempts to drive off. But, with an
electronic park actuator, as soon as
the driver unbuckles the seat belt
and opens the driver’s door, the
transmission automatically goes
into park.
This feature should prevent
accidental drive offs on these auto Figure 11

18 GEARS June 2018

1SeanBoyle 0618.indd 18 5/31/2018 08:03:48

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 Planetary Gearsets in a Honda?

start/stop vehicles. It might also

make for some interesting future
transmission complaints regarding
vehicles that cannot be pulled out
of park. Now we have to think of
seat belt sensors and driver’s door
switches.
There are other “forced into
park” situations, such as:
• Driver switches the ignition
off when the vehicle is below 1
MPH and the engine running
(driver forgot to switch to park).
• Driver doesn’t press the brake
pedal when commanding a gear
other than park.
• Driver presses the accelerator
when commanding a gear other
than park.
Likewise, the TCM will pre-
vent a shift into park or reverse if Figure 12
the vehicle’s moving. It’ll prevent
a shift into park if the vehicle is
moving over 1 MPH, a shift into
reverse if moving faster than 2
MPH, and a shift into drive if the
speed is greater than 7 MPH.
The range reference chart
shows the wide range of gear ratios
and the use of four overdrive gears
(figure 14). While studying the
chart, you might notice that for
any upshift or downshift, the TCM
releases only one clutch and applies
only one clutch. The CPC solenoids
can control the rates of apply and
release for a seamless shift.
The torque converter design
will likely present some challenges
to the converter rebuilding industry
(figure 15). The elliptical construc-
tion of the converter makes for a Figure 13

Gear Ratio C1 C2 C3 B1 B2 B3 2-way

R 3.97 A A A
1 5.25 A A A
2 3.27 A A A
3 2.19 A A A
4 1.6 A A A
5 1.3 A A A
6 1.000 A A A
7 0.78 A A A
8 0.65 A A A
9 0.58 A A A
10 0.52 A A A
Figure 14

20 GEARS June 2018

1SeanBoyle 0618.indd 20 5/31/2018 08:03:53

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 Planetary Gearsets in a Honda?
tight squeeze of the impeller/turbine/
stator (figures 16 and 17) .
The torque converter uses a
captive clutch design with two sets
of dampening springs on the turbine
assembly: one set on the outer
diameter and one set more toward
the center. The damper and turbine
assembly have 38 rivets holding the
TCC hub, turbine shaft hub, and
spring stops together.
On the converter that I cut apart,
the TCC had very tight clearance.
The multiple disc clutch assembly has
selective plates as discovered by the
stampings on the backing plate.
Figure 15
Figure 17
22 GEARS June 2018
1SeanBoyle 0618.indd 22
Regarding maintenance, here’s how technology to make a transmission
you can check the oil level: with more gear ratio options smaller
1. Warm the engine up. and lighter, yet still hold the torque and
2. Shift through all ranges and horsepower of a modern powertrain.
manually shift into second gear. Look for another article in the
3. Place in park. near future covering the electronics
4. Shut the engine off. and hydraulics of this impressive
5. Remove the ATF Level bolt on the transmission.
side of the transmission (figure 18).
There should be a slight drip from
the hole. If no fluid is present, add
Honda Type 2 ATF to the fill hole.
This mechanical overview of
the Honda 10-speed transmission
demonstrates that advances can be
made to existing planetary gearset
Figure 16
Figure 18
5/31/2018 08:04:00
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Ads_June2018.indd 23 5/31/2018 08:19:06
 HEAVY METAL!
S
o here we go again with a Honda
with noises and weird shifting.
In most cases, we tend to think
that we’ve pretty much seen it all by
now, but oh boy how wrong we are.
When a vehicle comes into the
shop, we pull codes and drive the
vehicle to get a feel of the problem
and whether it matches the customer’s
complaint, which for the most part it
never does.
So that being said, when custom-
ers experience transmission trouble
nowadays, the first thing they do is
Google it. Yep, times are changing
rapidly and the number of auto experts
out there keeps on growing. But when
the customer brings the vehicle to you,
more than likely he’s done research
already, and is coming in with no
exact answer and a gazillion opinions
of what it could be.
Here’s a chance for you to shine
and separate yourself from the fly-
by-night or low-ballers out there.
ATRA’s seminars or webinars offer
a lot of information that is critical to
our industry. Take advantage of this
free information it’ll help you separate
yourself from the crowd.
This particular vehicle was a
2009 Honda Accord with a 2.4L and a
B90A. However, the same can happen
on LX or EX vehicles with VIN CS1;
or with an M91A unit on LX or EX
vehicles with VIN CP2.
24 GEARS June 2018
1rolly 0618.indd 24
by Rolly Alvarez
members.atra.com
So this vehicle rolls into the shop. But when we drive the vehicle hard,
It intermittently won’t shift and makes the OSS signal goes berserk, and
a weird noise at times. Notice I said “at the codes come back, along with a
times,” because the wife claimed that, screeching noise and an obviously
when she drives the vehicle, she doesn’t skewed OSS signal.
experience any problems. Obviously With all that in mind, we decided
we have two different sets of driving to pull the OSS and inspect it. Eureka!
habits: The husband drives the vehicle Look what we found (figure 1):
more aggressively than the wife. So the OSS is grinding against
This is one reason it’s so important the gear… or is it too long? Did this
to pay attention to what the
customers say.
This is valuable because, when
it comes to diagnosis, those expla-
nations offer a clue on where to go
or how to drive the vehicle. It’ll
make the diagnosis quicker, more
effective, and more profitable.
Driving on an open road, tip-
ping the throttle, the transmission
shifted on time and there were no
noises. Then, when we drove more
aggressively, the noise showed up
and codes P0720 and P0500 set.
Next we came to a stop, and
started driving at light throttle.
Once again the noise was gone
and the transmission shifted okay.
The issue is, when the engine is
under torque the drivetrain moves
back and forth.
I connected a scan tool and
monitored the OSS and VSS.
When we drive the vehicle slowly,
there are no issues with the OSS
or VSS and the signals are perfect. Figure 1
5/31/2018 08:05:08
Ads_June2018.indd 25 5/31/2018 08:19:07
STP_4_Tools_Ad_18_PRINT.indd 1 5/11/2018 3:13:40 PM
 2009 Honda Has Mysterious Noise and Won’t Shift Intermittently

vehicle come from another shop or

did someone else work on it? Well
since metal noises aren’t normal in any
transmission, we’re pulling this unit
apart to see what we find.
We pulled the unit and tore it
down on the bench. After removing
the back cover and exposing the gears,
we found a piece of a bearing had
fallen off the housing (figures 2 - 4);
bearing that supports the mainshaft in
the back of the unit.
Since there was no major damage
to any of the gears, the shop called the
customer and gave him the choice of
repairing the problem or completely
rebuilding the unit. A simple repair
turned out to be adequate for this
Figure 2
problem.

Figure 3

26 GEARS June 2018

1rolly 0618.indd 26 5/31/2018 08:05:12

 So when the husband drove
the vehicle, it put the transmission
under load. That side-loaded the
mainshaft, damaging the bearing.
And with the bearing gone, the
gear hit the sensor, causing the
screeching noise and error codes.

Thanks to Steve Wilson at Gold

Coast Transmission in Hollywood,
Florida, for the pictures.

Figure 4

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GEARS June 2018 27

1rolly 0618.indd 27 5/31/2018 08:05:16

 IN FRONT OF THE FLYWHEEL

by Scott Shotton
The Driveability Guys

I
n the last two issues of GEARS observe cylinder pressures. But in the In figure 1, the green trace is a pressure
Magazine, we covered engine me- case of running compression, you’ll waveform from a cylinder while the
chanical testing using high cur- need to enable fuel and ignition to allow engine is idling. I’ve used cursors, from
rent probes for relative compression the engine to run. top-dead-center compression to top-
testing in conjunction with transducers Ignition needs to function for the dead-center compression, to mark the
for cranking vacuum testing. We also cylinder you’re testing because you’ll 720º of crankshaft rotation that occurs
touched on in-cylinder cranking com- want to see when the spark for that in the four-stroke cycle.
pression testing using a pressure trans- cylinder occurs. If possible, you’ll want It’s easy to identify TDC
ducer. to disable fuel for only the cylinder compression because cylinder pressure
This month we’ll expand our in- you’re testing. Once the engine is is the highest at this point. Notice that
cylinder testing by using a pressure running, there’s a plethora of data you the running compression pressure is
transducer to analyze running can observe. only 74 PSI. It’s normal for the running
compression. compression at idle to be lower than the
The Anatomy compression pressure of a cranking test.
The Test Before you can analyze an The red trace on the capture is the
Much like our previous oscilloscope capture using this ignition firing event for the cylinder
compression test, you’ll need to install technique, you need to understand the where the pressure transducer is
the transducer in the spark plug hole to anatomy of a known good waveform. installed.

Figure 1: The anatomy of a running compression waveform.

28 GEARS June 2018

1scottshotton0618.indd 28 5/31/18 2:58 PM

 Figure 2: You can confirm retarded ignition timing by going in-cylinder.

After identifying the 720º cycle, I

divided the capture into four equal, 180º
sections using the scope’s rulers. Each
of these four sections corresponds to
one of the four strokes, labeled in blue.
During the power stroke, the
pressure decreases steadily as the piston
moves down. Because there was no
combustion, the pressure continues to
move into the vacuum range. Shortly
before the piston reaches bottom-dead-
center, the exhaust valve opens. This
is the point where the pressure stops
moving down and starts moving back
up again.
The next stroke is the exhaust
stroke. During this stroke, the exhaust
valve should be open and pressure in the
cylinder, although fluctuating slightly,
should remain near 0 PSI. Near the end
Figure 3: The crankshaft pulley keyway had worn and
of the exhaust stroke, the intake valve
caused incorrect ignition timing.
opens and valve overlap occurs. The
timing of this valve event is very hard to piston reaches TDC. and, with no timing marks, there’s no
determine because of the valve overlap Now that you’ve seen a good- way to check the setting.
occurring at the same time. running compression waveform, let’s For example, let’s look at this Ford
The intake stroke is the next area take some time to look at some faults Econoline with a 4.2-liter engine. The
to focus on. The exhaust valve closes you can identify using this technique. vehicle was at a shop; the complaint
shortly after the beginning of this was low power on acceleration. The
stroke. Again, due to the valve overlap, Where’s the technician had already replaced all
this event is very hard to pick out. As Distributor? the usual suspects including the MAF
the intake stroke continues, you can see Nowadays, an often-overlooked sensor, spark plugs, ignition wires,
the vacuum generated. cause of a low power-related issue ignition coil, CMP sensor, fuel pump,
The final 180º section is the could be retarded ignition timing. Most fuel filter, catalytic converter, and the
compression stroke. At the beginning of of today’s vehicles don’t have that entire exhaust system. Even after all
the stroke, the piston is on its way up octopus-looking thing we used to call a of these repairs, the van still had low
in the cylinder but the intake valve is distributor and there are no provisions power.
still open. The pressure in the cylinder for ignition timing adjustment. We performed an in-cylinder
should start to rise right around the time That doesn’t mean that ignition compression test (figure 2), which
the intake valve closes. You can see timing can’t be off. Usually it occurs confirmed that the ignition timing was
final compression pressures when the when something is physically broken retarded.
GEARS June 2018 29

1scottshotton0618.indd 29 5/31/18 8:56 AM

 Pressure
Pressure and
and Vacuum
Vacuum Diagnosis,
Diagnosis, Part
Part III:
III: Running
Running Compression
Compression

In the waveform, you can see a compression stroke

and a power (or expansion) stroke.

In this case, the ignition-firing
event (red) occurs after top-dead-center:
To the right is retarded. With the engine
running, we’d expect the firing event to
occur well to the left of top-dead-center,
or advanced.
To calculate exactly what the
ignition timing is requires some simple
measurement and math. First, measure
the time it takes for the 720º, 4-cycle
event to occur. For discussion, let’s say
that measurement is 136 milliseconds.
Next, divide 720 by the time measured
to figure out how long 1 degree of
crankshaft rotation takes. In this case,
720 ÷ 136 = 5.3 milliseconds.
If we now measure how far away
the ignition event is from top-dead-
center, say 45 milliseconds, then 45 ÷
5.3 = 8.5. If the measured ignition event
was before top-dead-center (or to the
left), then the ignition timing would be
about 8º-9º advanced. If it were after
top-dead-center (or to the right), then
the timing would be 8º-9º retarded.
Ignition timing on almost all
modern vehicles is based on the
crankshaft position sensor’s input to
the PCM. If the timing is off, examine
the CKP reluctor closely. In the case
of the Econoline, the crankshaft pulley
keyway had worn (figure 3) and caused
the reluctor to shift on the crankshaft.
How About the
Valves?
The next value of this technique is
to distinguish between different valve
train faults. When you understand the
known good anatomy of a compression
waveform, you can begin to analyze
the waveforms by looking for issues, or
anomalies, that don’t fit the norm.
This next vehicle was a Dodge with
a 4.7-liter engine that had a misfire. It had
sufficient spark and fuel. The technician
also opted to swap ignition coils and
fuel injectors to no avail; the misfire
didn’t move with either attempt. Once
he performed a running compression
test (figure 4), the mechanical fault
became obvious.
In the waveform, you can see
a compression stroke and a power
(or expansion) stroke. But notice the
pressure buildup when we should see an
exhaust stroke. It almost appears to be
an extra compression stroke. Actually,
it’s an unwanted compression stroke
because the exhaust valve isn’t opening.
If an exhaust valve sticks closed,
the exhaust has nowhere to escape and
pressure builds again. Notice the rapid
pressure release the moment the intake
valve opens to prepare for the upcoming
intake stroke. The Dodge in question
had a cam follower that had fallen off
(figure 5) and was no longer opening the
exhaust valve.
Every compression related issue
will appear a little different on the scope.
They all have different “signatures” if
you will. The next vehicle didn’t have a
dead misfire but did exhibit some rough
running. A relative compression test
revealed that one of the cylinders was a
bit lower that the rest. When performing
an in-cylinder running compression test
(figure 6) we obtained a very interesting
waveform.
What this capture shows is an
unwanted rise in pressure near the
end of the exhaust stroke. Obviously,
compared to our last example, the
exhaust valve isn’t stuck closed. But
could it be closing early?
That’s exactly what’s occurring.
This could be caused by advanced
exhaust camshaft timing, but in this case,
only one of the cylinders is affected.

Figure 4: There’s a pressure build-up where the exhaust stroke should have been.

30 GEARS June 2018

1scottshotton0618.indd 30 5/31/18 8:57 AM

Ads_June2018.indd 31 5/31/2018 08:19:09
 Pressure
Pressure and
and Vacuum
Vacuum Diagnosis,
Diagnosis, Part
Part III:
III: Running
Running Compression
Compression

Given that piece of information, we can

take camshaft timing off of the table.
But could the valve timing still be off?
Notice the maroon bracket labeled
Exhaust Valve Open: The pressure
rise where the power stroke ends and
the exhaust stroke starts occurs much
later than expected. This indicates that
the exhaust valve is opening late and
closing early.
We definitely have a valve timing
issue, but only on one of the valves. The
trick is to confirm what’s causing it. It
could be a collapsed hydraulic lifter,
but in this case, the fault was a worn
camshaft lobe.

Conclusion
This technique can be valuable in
two major ways: The first would be
a quick, clean, and accurate method
for diagnosing mechanical or ignition
timing issues. The second would be as
a learning tool.
How do we learn from this
technique? If you obtain a capture, you
can’t make sense of, save it for future
analysis. After you’ve disassembled,
diagnosed, and repaired the engine,
revisit the capture knowing the fault and
figure out why the pressures behaved
the way they did.
Figure 5: A cam follower had fallen off under the camshaft cover and caused
a change in the compression waveform.
Then you’ll be more apt to recognize
the “signature” of that specific fault.
Engine or electrical diagnostic
issues you’d like to see addressed?
Let Scott know. Send him an email at
scott@driveabilityguys.com and you
just may have your question covered in
a future issue of GEARS Magazine.

Figure 6: We’ve mapped the four strokes on this waveform to show the unwanted pressure increase occurs
near the end of the exhaust stroke.

32 GEARS June 2018

1scottshotton0618.indd 32 5/31/18 8:57 AM

 Weekly podcast
featuring industry topics,
interviews and more.
Hosted by
ATRA technical director
Lance Wiggins

Co-host
Vanessa Velasquez,
ATRA Events director

Like and subscribe

Gears Magazine and Powered by
ATRA youtube channels

www.youtube.com/watch?v=e4HMQz0--r8

Transmission Coaching Podcast Ad.indd 1 5/31/2018 08:34:03

 UP YOUR BUSINESS

by Thom Tschetter

U
p Your Business is an exclusive
GEARS Magazine feature in
which I share stories, insights,
and reflections about real business and
life challenges.
You might think I’ve lost my mind
with the title of this article. I hope it
caught your attention. After over 25
years of reading and listening to me
talk about how to make your business
the best it can be, how to differentiate
yourself from the competition, and
how to take it from good to great,
you’re entitled to wonder why I’d make
such a seemingly insane statement.
My doctor and my wife assure me
that I’m still sane, and I still believe in
all the principles that I’ve presented
to you over the years. But recently it
occurred to me that greatness isn’t a
destination… it’s a pursuit that will
never and shouldn’t be achieved.
Aspire to be great plus one… always
looking for one more way to improve.
Sure, you might believe you have
a great company — the best in your
specialty — but there really isn’t any
one group or organization that’s the
final authority to determine whether
you’re the best or, for that matter, great.
Even if there were such an
authority, their opinion would be
subject to debate among your peers.
For instance, can you recall a time
when the Oscar went to a movie
or movie star that everyone agreed
deserved it?
34 GEARS June 2018

1tschetter 0618.indd 34 5/31/2018 08:07:09

 “Neither a wise man nor a brave man lies down
on the tracks of history to wait for the train of
the future to run over him.” — Dwight Eisenhower

WHAT ABOUT 2. First Who, Then What: Get the WHERE

GOOD TO GREAT?
I know, I know, I pushed the
principles of Good to Great by Jim
Collins ever since it was published in
2001. But I’m not abandoning them.
Let’s review them and then I’ll explain
why I’m now singing a song with
slightly different lyrics.
In Good to Great, Collins described
the extreme lengths he and his team
went to in establishing specific criteria
for determining how, if, and when a
company transitions from good to great.
The team of over 20 researchers
studied over 6000 articles, generated
more than 2000 pages of interview
transcripts, and over 384 megabytes
of computer data in a five-year project.
Over 1400 top-performing, world-class
companies were compared to these
criteria and only 11 made the grade.
The research results showed that
these 11 companies had these seven
characteristics in common:
1. Level 5 Leadership: Leaders who
are humble but driven to do what’s
best for the company over self.
right people on the bus (the com-
pany), then figure out where to go.
Next, find the right seats (positions)
for each person.
3. Confront the Brutal Facts: Be
brutally honest about situations and
circumstances but don’t give up hope.
4. The Hedgehog Concept: Three
overlapping circles that reveal
what you’re passionate about, what
you do best, and what makes you
money. Where the circles overlap
is your hedgehog; that’s where you
should focus.
5. Culture of Discipline: Be willing
to eliminate the elements of your
company (people, products, pro-
cess, things, practices, etc.) that are
impeding success.
7. Technology Accelerators: Use
technology to accelerate growth
within the three circles of the
hedgehog concept.
8. The Flywheel Effect: This is the
compounding effect of many small
initiatives congruently and continu-
ously acting upon each other.
ARE THEY NOW?
What I’m about to say isn’t a
condemnation of the good-to-great
concept. But it does make my point
that greatness isn’t a destination.
Here’s what happened to the 11
companies showcased and deemed as
good-to-great companies only 10 years
after the book was published:
• One went bankrupt.
• One was placed in conservatorship.
• One was purchased.
• Two lost 20% of their stock price.
• Four had no change in their stock
price.
• One had a 1% increase in stock
price.
• Only one did great, with a 4-fold
increase in its stock price.
WHAT HAPPENED?
I’ve concluded that characteristic
number seven is the culprit. Collins
calls it the The Flywheel Effect: This is
the compounding effect of many small
initiatives congruently and continuously
acting upon each other.

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GEARS June 2018 35

1tschetter 0618.indd 35 5/31/2018 08:07:13

 Don’t Aspire to Be Great
I call it the Keep on Doing
Principle. That is, keep on doing
the things that make you successful,
keep on innovating, and keep on
implementing improvements: in short,
keep on moving forward. It requires
relentlessness, resilience, tenacity, and
persistence, but that’s likely what got
you where you are in the first place.
Like Collin’s flywheel metaphor,
it requires major effort to get started,
but once the flywheel is in motion,
momentum becomes your ally. With
each successive turn, it gets easier to
maintain and even increase speed.
But this is where many companies
begin to coast and become complacent.
They start ignoring the things that
got them there, and they cease their
continuous pursuit of ways to improve.
To sustain greatness, great companies
never stop improving.
Continuous incremental improve-
ments over time produce better,
longer-lasting, sustainable results than
one big change. For example, would
you benefit more from doing 100
sit-ups everyday over the next week
or from doing 20 sit-ups everyday for
the next 35 days? Either way, it’s 700
sit-ups.
Most likely you wouldn’t even do
the 100 per day for the entire week
because it would be too difficult and
painful. On the other hand, there’s
a better chance that you’d do 20 a
day for 35 days. Plus, after 35 days,
you’ll notice a physical improvement,
form the habit, and might even keep
doing them.
IS IT TIME
FOR A GUT CHECK?
Excuse the pun… I couldn’t
resist. Borrowing from characteristic
number 3 in Collin’s list, Confront the
Brutal Facts: Be brutally honest about
situations and circumstances but don’t
give up hope. It might be time for you
and your team to do a gut check. I call it
a gut check because to me, it goes deeper
than brutal honesty. What you discover
will surprise you. Here’s the process:
1. Make a list of all the types/
categories of services your company
provides.
2. Ask yourself these questions about
each one:
• How good are we at this?
36 GEARS June 2018
1tschetter 0618.indd 36
• Are we staffed and equipped for One of my favorite quotes comes
this? from Dwight Eisenhower, “Neither a
• Are we profitable at this? wise man nor a brave man lies down
• Does it interfere with other, more on the tracks of history to wait for the
profitable services? train of the future to run over him.”
• Can we improve on any aspect of Don’t aspire to be great; aspire to
providing this service? continually improve. Greatness isn’t a
• Should we continue doing it? destination; it’s a continuous pursuit.
3. Make a list of new services that you Greatness will occur as a natural
could offer or innovative ways you consequence of doing the right things,
could expand on your current list. doing them right, and continuously
4. Ask this similar list of questions improving.
about each of these considerations:
• Will we be good at it?
• Are we staffed and equipped to
do it?
• Will we be profitable doing it?
• Will it interfere with other
profitable services we’re
currently doing?
• Will we be better off doing it
than not doing it?
• Is it worth the effort and
investment to start doing it?
Remember the Flywheel Effect.
5. After you complete the above steps,
make three more lists and place
each of the above services on the
appropriate list:
• Start Doing list
• Keep Doing list (Include ideas
for improvements on this list.)
• Stop Doing list
6. Take appropriate action. Just having
the list does nothing… it takes
action. But, if you did a sincere
gut check and are brutally honest,
not taking action should make you
uncomfortable.
THE KEY POINT
There’s probably one word that
describes why 10 of the eleven great About the Author
companies identified in Good to Thom Tschetter has served our
Great failed to sustain greatness. That industry for nearly four decades as
word is complacency. Even if your a management and sales educator.
company is performing beyond your He owned a chain of award-winning
wildest expectations, don’t become transmission centers in Washington
complacent. Continuously look for State for over 25 years.
ways to improve and take action. He calls on over 30 years of
Great companies can’t stand experience as a speaker, writer,
business consultant, and certified
still or rest on their laurels because
arbitrator for topics for this feature
someone else is in pursuit. Remember
column.
one of the most famous slogans in
Thom is always eager to help
advertising history: “We’re number
you improve your business and your
2… we try harder.” I don’t even have life. You can contact him by phone at
to mention the company name. By (480) 773-3131 or e-mail to
the way, do you remember who was coachthom@gmail.com.
number 1?
5/31/2018 08:07:16
 “...ATRA’S ONE OF
THE KEY REASONS
WE HAVE SO FEW
COMEBACKS.“

VIC COMESARIO
TRANSMISSION
TECHNOLOGY

AT ATRA, TRANSMISSIONS ARE ALL WE DO.

The transmission failed and we referred the customer to an ATRA Member

shop close to him...who took great care of the customer; that’s when I became
a true believer in ATRA!...when it comes to transmissions, we rely on ATRA for the
latest technical training and support.

– Vic Comesario, owner of Transmission Technology

Big Island of Hawaii, ATRA member since December 2002

JOIN TODAY
Members.ATRA.COM 1-866-GO-4-ATRA

atra testimonial0118.indd 2 1/8/18 11:55 AM

 SUCCESS STRATEGIES
“Without reflection there is no true learning.”
 — Kevin Buck, philosopher, author
I
ntelligence doesn’t serve us until
we stop to consider what we’ve
seen. They say that the essence
of intelligence is the ability to make
distinctions, to notice the differences,
to see more than the obvious.
You may look at a transmission
and see exactly what I see, but I’ll
only notice what I see. Because of my
lack of automotive training, I’ll only
observe what is obvious to anyone.
As a trained transmission profes-
sional, you’ll notice much more. You’ll
see systems, patterns, brands, types,
extras, omissions, and even more. You
can look at a transmission and know
which cars use them, whether they’re
new or reman, etc. That’s because, as
you’ve learned about them, you’ve also
given a great deal of thought to what
they are, how they operate, and what
each item means in the mix that we
know as a transmission. By contrast,
I see what looks like a prop from the
movie The Matrix!
The same is true in the rest of life.
The more you notice, the more you
know… but your intelligence in each
situation depends on how much you’ve
reflected on what you’ve learned and
discerned its meaning.
Take music for example: If you
learn basic guitar playing, then
you’ll know the strings, the frets, the
strums, the notes, and the chords, but
you won’t know how to play a song
well. You can form notes and chords
perfectly but still miss the magic.
38 GEARS June 2018
1chatcart 0618.indd 38
In watching recent music competi-
tions on TV, you can quickly see who
really knows how to play and sing,
and who only has good musical ability
but not the gift of being able to touch
people with music. That “gift” or
“magic” is learnable, but not without
taking time to reflect on the meaning
and feeling of the songs.
I’m at the other end of the spectrum
when it comes to reflecting. I take what
some would consider too much time to
think about what things mean or how
they could be applied for some good
purpose. Then again, it’s my job to
think about things and interpret them
for you.
My favorite phrase of late? “What
this means to you is…”
I present this on a slide in my
seminars and tell the audience to ask it
all day long. “If I share a story or idea
today and you can’t see the usefulness
of it, please interrupt me and ask,
‘Jim, what does this mean to me?’”
The ideas don’t matter except in how
they can be valuable or useful to the
learners.
Schools teach lots of great informa-
tion and powerful ideas, but if there’s
no reflection on how to apply them,
then the classroom time was wasted.
Knowledge isn’t power. The abil-
ity to apply knowledge is where the
power comes in. The intelligence
that comes from taking time to think
things through is, in many ways, the
“transmission” of our minds. It takes
by Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE
the potential power of knowledge and
translates or transmits it to our hands
and voices for application in wise ways.
The next time you talk with one
of your coworkers about something
that they already know, consider that
they may only know it technically.
In other words, they might be able to
parrot it back to you just as you said it,
but without thinking it through, they
won’t really understand what it means
to them.
Don’t expect people to truly know
what they’ve merely seen or heard.
Help them think about what it means.
Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is
a strategic advisor to ATRA and
a longtime contributor to GEARS
Magazine. As a professional speaker
and business advisor, he helps people
see the deeper meaning in their
business and find quicker, more
lasting ways to make business and
personal problems go away. Contact
him at info@cathcart.com and visit
his web site Cathcart.com for free
videos, articles, and resources.
5/31/2018 08:09:04
 TECHNICAL BOOKS
General Motors •Ford • Imports • Chrysler

Do you have the latest items to

Gear up your shop?
ATRA's bookstore is having a Spring Sale
April, 1 2018 - June 31, 2018
Save $20 on your entire order of $60 or more.*Not including Warranties*
Contact ATRA Membership to Save on Bookstore Items Today!
Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association
2400 Latigo Avenue • Oxnard, CA 93030 • Toll Free (866) 464-2872 • (805) 604-2000 • Fax (805) 604-2003
members.atra.com • www.atra.com • www.gearsmagazine.com

Ads_April2018.indd 37 3/23/2018 12:09:45 PM


Great travel accomodations to the tour!
Guided tours provided by the wonderful
people at Florida Torque Converter.
I
t’s been a few weeks since the
2018 TCRA event, the preeminent
training and meeting program for
the torque converter professional. This
year’s event took place in Florida, at
the Weston Cape Coral Resort at Ma-
rina Village, April 20-21, 2018. And,
according to those who made it a point
to take part, it was a rousing success.
The event began with a guided tour
of the Florida Torque Converter factory.
At Larry's ranch for a barbecue lunch, an event catered by Bangin’ Dave’s BBQ.
40 GEARS June 2018
1TCRA wrap618.indd 40
Guided tour of Florida Torque Converter.
Attendees got a taste of every facet
of one of the most successful torque
converter rebuilding facilities in the
world.
Afterward, Larry St Amand, the
owner of Florida Torque Converter,
had everyone bussed over to his ranch
for a barbecue lunch, an event catered
by Bangin’ Dave’s BBQ. There was
brisket, ribs, chicken… everything for
the discerning barbecue connoisseur.
by Steve Bodofsky
members.atra.com
Afterward, everyone headed back
to the hotel. Most traveled back the way
they came: by bus. But a lucky few got
a special ride back: Larry and Marcin
got their powerboats out and took a few
folks back over the waterways.
Upon returning to the hotel, they
held the TCRA member’s meeting,
which was followed by a reception
hosted by Sonnax. This was where
attendees could meet up with the
5/31/18 8:56 AM
 Photo courtesy of: Transmission Digest
Training seminars, presented by a who’s who of industry professionals. The day began with ATRA’s own Rodger Bland!

movers and shakers of

the torque converter
industry, and make
new contacts that will
probably follow them
for the rest of their
lives.
Saturday morning
began the training
seminars, presented by
a who’s who of industry Bob Warnke, closing out the program.
professionals. The day
began with ATRA’s own Rodger Bland,
who spoke about the importance of
great leadership for the torque converter
industry.
He was followed by Caleb Haven,
who introduced some productivity
improvements that you could see using
metal-core welding wire. Victor Roses
spoke about late-model GM converters.
He was followed by Mike Cargill, who
offered two programs: one on what
we can expect over the next 10 years,
and a second offering rebuilding tips
Photo courtesy of: Transmission Digest
and tricks.
Mike Souza came next with his
view on the industry’s future. Bobby
Mace followed him with the results
of his poll of retail converter shop
owners. And Bob Warnke closed out the
training program with tips for isolating
converter problems.
It was a fast moving weekend
with different and exciting events
packed head to head. And the one thing
everyone could easily agree on was
that it was a worthwhile experience,
Photo courtesy of: Transmission Digest
Delicious provided lunch.
one where they learned what to expect
in the days ahead, and how to address
the latest torque converter problems.
So far, there’s no firm decision on
where next year’s TCRA event will
take place, but you can be sure it’ll be
an exciting and worthwhile program.
Keep your eyes peeled for late-breaking
updates, and mark your calendar early
for the 2019 TCRA program.

GEARS June 2018 41

1TCRA wrap618.indd 41 5/31/18 8:56 AM


Learn more...Earn more!
Seminar Locations
June 2 - Vancouver, BC
June 2 - Council Bluffs, IA
August 4 - San Antonio, TX
August 11 - Atlanta, GA
August 18 - Anaheim, CA
August 25 - Portland, OR
August 25 - Tulsa, OK
September 8 - Billings, MT
September 15 - Newark, NJ
September 22 - Chicago, IL
November 17 - Baltimore, MD
ad template.indd 1
2018
Technical
Seminar
There’s no better way to prove your shop’s
competitiveness than by making sure your continuing
education and training always remain a priority. Let’s
face it, technical training reduces diagnostic and labor
times, slashes comebacks and no-goes, and enhances
your earning power. And that’s where ATRA can help:
by providing the very best in technical information,
with award-winning seminar material, in a face-to-face
environment, attending the ATRA Technical Seminar in
your area will be the best decision you make all year!
Because if you’re someone who takes pride in calling
yourself a “professional technician”, then you need to
make plans to attend TODAY!
Schedule Fees
Registration ......7am-8am All Pricing in US Funds
Seminar......................8am* ATRA Members .........$175
Lunch .............12pm-1pm Non-Members ...........$220
*Vancouver Seminar
Begins at 9am
Every 4th person........FREE
On-site registration.....$250
How To Register
Phone toll-free: (800) 428-8489
Fax your payment & (805) 988-6761
registration information to:
Online: http://members.atra.com
Mail your payment to:
ATRA Seminar Registration
2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030
4/27/18 10:37 AM
 Table of
General
• AWD SYSTEMS
-
-
General System Overview
Transfer Coupling
• VARIABLE LIFT
CAMSHAFT SYSTEMS
- Introduction
Contents
- Diagnostics, Tire Wear, Codes • MP TRANSFER CASE General Motors
- Rolling Circumference Test - K Truck, Service 4WD Message,
• GETRAG 760 TRANSFER DTCs Set, Various Other Issues • 4L60E/65E/70E • 6L80
CASE • CHEVROLET/GMC - Burnt/Leaking 3-4 Clutch - Tailshaft Bushing Failure
- Introduction and FULL SIZE K TRUCK - No Reverse • 6L80/90
Service Information - Front Differential Failure/Noise/ • 4L60/65E - Burnt Slipping 1-2-3-4, 4-5-6,
- System Operation Clunk - Harsh Shifts 3-5-R Clutches
- ABS Light On, Trac Off, Service • NEW GM RPO PROCESS - Neutrals on the 2-3 Shift, • 8 AND 9 SPEED
Traction Control System Light - For 2018 and Later Applications Repeat 3-4 Clutch Failure APPLICATIONS
On, Service Stabilitrak Light On • GM VEHICLES - Slips and Chatters - Selective One-Way Clutches
• MP1625, MP1626, - Reprogramming with the Same - TCC Shudder (SOWC)
MP1222, MP1225, MP1226 Calibration Files • 6L45/50/80/90 • LCT 1000
- Transfer Case Updates • 6L50/6L80/6L90, - Damaged 1-2-3-4/3-5-R Clutch - No Reverse
• MP1625, MP1626, 8L45/8L90 Drum Bearing Seal - Harsh Downshift at Times
MP3010, MP3023, - Driveability Issues with 4 • 6L80/90 - 1-2 Flare, 3-2 Downshift Bump
MP3024, MP3025G Cylinder Mode, TCC Applied - Burnt/Slipping 4-5-6 Clutch, - Pressure Tap Size
- Service 4x4 Message Possible • 6T70/75, 6L50 Possible Transmission Overheat, • 6T70/75
DTCs C0392, C0396, C0398, - Transmission/Engine Driveability Cooler Flushing Issues - Delayed Engagement, Delayed
C0306, C039E, C038D Set, Issues, Engine Misfire 3.6L, or Neutral on 5-4 Kickdown,
Likely Intermittent - Thermal Valve
3.0L V-6 P0756
• AF33-5/4L60E • ALL GM VEHICLES • 6T30, 6T40/45
- Engine Misfire Before and/or - TCC Slip, No Apply, P0741
- Jumps While Driving 45mph After Repairs, Shudder, Harsh Possible
Shift, Surge
• 6L50 • 6T40
- Surge at Idle While Stopped in
Ford - Communication Issues, Possible
DTCs, Engine Driveability Issues
Drive Range
• 6T30/35
• 6L80/90 - 1-2-3-4 Snap Ring Pops Out
• 6F35 • 6R140 - Pump Service, Low Line Pres- After Repair
- Harsh Engagements, DTC - Transmission Overheating, sure, Slips Forward/Reverse
P0C27 Erratic Cooler Flow • 4T65E
- Slips/Harsh 1-2, 3-4, Flares at • 6L80/90, 8L90, 10L80/90 - Harsh Shifts, P0722, P0723
- DTC P054F - Garage Shift Clunk All • CVT-7, JF015E
Times
- Harsh Engagements, No Codes - Worn/Damaged Forward 1-2-3- • 6L45/50, 6L80/90 - Characteristics Chevrolet Spark,
- DTC P0760, P0763 4 Clutch Regulator Valve - Pan and Filter Combo Barina, Beat
- Flexplate Update, Knocking - Solenoid, Transmission Range, - Hard Shift After Repairs • ALL RWD VEHICLES
Noise Speed Sensor Codes - 2-6 Clutch Failure, 2-6 Clutch - Front Seal Leakage After Repair,
- Torque Converter Update, - Various DTCs Set, Various Support Bushing Failure Worn Front Seals
Broken Lugs, Noise, No Symptoms, Diesel Applications
Movement - High Transmission Temp,
• 6R80
- Dropping out of 5th and 6th
Transmission Overheating Chrysler
• DPS6
Gear - No Start and/or No Movement, • CVT2 - Third Gear Powerflow
- Harsh/Firm 5-4 Downshift, Loss of Power with DTCs - P0730, Ratio Codes
Reprogram - Fourth Gear Powerflow
U0100, U0101 and/or U1013, - Whining Noise, DTC P0218 - Fifth Gear Powerflow
• 6R60 P0606 • 68RFE
- DTC U0101, U1900 and/or Falls - Sixth Gear Powerflow
• 4R44/55E - Delayed Engagements
Out of Gear - Seventh Gear Powerflow
- Clunk When Coming to a Stop - Fluid Leakage, Case Cracked
• 4R70W - Manual Shaft Seal Leak - Eighth Gear Powerflow
- Squawk on Take Off or • CD4E - Filter Replacement
Coast Down Shift - DTC P0715 and P0717 • 42-48RE SERIES
- Voltage Issues - Solenoid Connector Removal
• 48RE - Pump Assembly
Imports - Cooler Check Valve
• 42-48 SERIES
- Pump Gears Removal
- No 4th or TCC, P0740-P0783 - Pump Gear Disassembly
• P111 - Speed Sensor Identification - No Reverse - Internal Component Disassembly
- No Start, No Movement - Shift Solenoid Location • 45/545/65/66/68 RFE - Geartrain Disassembly
• RE5R05A and Specifications SERIES - P4 Snap Ring Special Tool
- No Start After Flywheel - Valve Body Identification - DTC P0869, Line Pressure High - P1 Planet and Sun Gear Removal
Replacement - Air Check Locations • 545RFE
- Reprogramming the TCM - P2 Planet Removal
- Servo Identification - No Reverse
• RE0F10A/B - P2 Ring Gear and Trust Bearing
- Servo Travel - Kills the Motor
- DTC P17F0/F1, Shudder or - P4 Sun Gear, Planet and D/C/E
Violent Shaking
- C3 and C4 Clutch Drum Identifi- • 62TE Clutch
cation - DTC P0935, P1745
• A340, AW30-40LE - C1 Clutch Drum Identification • 845RE - C Clutch Assembly
- No Reverse, No 3rd After Repair - B2 Brake Identification - Introduction - P3 Ring Gear, C and E Clutch
• A750F - Sprag Rotation - Clutch Application Chart - Setting Clutch Clearance
- P2716 Set - Solenoid Application Chart
- C2 Clutch Drum Identification - Clutch Drum Specifics
• U151 - B2 Brake Snap Ring - Failsafe Operation
- Tie-Up, Damaged Clutches - Valve Body Exploded View
- Service Information - Gear Ratio Chart
• U880 - Service Procedures • 45RFE
- Introduction - ECM Reset - Over-Temperature DTC Set
- Internal Component View
- Gear Ratio • HONDA 3 SHAFT - Reverse Powerflow • ALL CHRYSLER VEHICLES
- Line Pressure Test - DTC P0780 - First Gear Powerflow - P1790, P0720, P0731,
- Clutch and Band Application - TCC Issue - Second Gear Powerflow Erratic Shifts
Chart • A5HF1
- Shift Solenoid Operation - No Upshift After 3rd Gear

ad template.indd 1 4/27/18 10:38 AM

 T E R N
IS
OW
RE G

2018
POWERTRAIN
EXPO
OCT. 31ST - NOV. 3RD
LAS VEGAS, NV

hosted by

www.powertrainexpo.com
atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:11 AM
 Geared Towards Your Success!

Expert Management &

Technical Training
The best thing you can do for your shop, and
your career, is to keep building on what you
already know. Keeping up-to-date is the best
way to stay competitive!

Trade Show
Demos, specials on show floor
products, and negotiating directly
with Suppliers - this is your chance
to see, test and compare the latest
parts and equipment!

Networking & Socializing

The industry’s best are all under one roof:
Suppliers, Speakers, Researchers, Instructors
and fellow shop technicians!

Room Block Raffle

Booking your sleeping room within
ATRA’s room block is important to
the success of current and future
Powertrain Expos. Lock in your
discounted room rate and be entered
to win prizes!

Payment Plans Available

Sign up early to guarantee the very best
Registration prices, and ATRA will start you
on a payment plan that works for you and
your shop!

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:10 AM

 TECH You Need
Unit Learn about these units before they come in
Introduction to your shop!

Tips & Techniques to help you

Rebuild rebuild your transmissions
more efficiently!

Divide Your
Tech Time

Learn how to determine

Driveability the difference between the
transmission and the engine!

Diagnostics Techniques to help you determine the cause

and corrections in a fast and easy way!

October 31 - November 3, 2018

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:10 AM

 To Be the Best
Unit
Introduction Rebuild

• GM’s AF50 Aisin 8 Speed FWD

• Mercedes “7G-DCT” 7 Speed Dual Clutch
• Evaluating Rebuild Options When Time is Money
you • GM’s 10L90 vs. Ford’s 10R80
s • Friction 101
• Tips & Tricks from the Builder’s Bench
• ZF’s Mechatronic
• Honda 10 Speed Transaxle

Driveability Diagnostics

• Programming Problems and Solutions and More!

• Reference Voltage Test Tips You Should Know
• Diagnosing Intermittent Electrical Issues
• Oxygen Sensors and Fuel Trims
• MAF Sensors and Fuel Trims
• Making the Most of Your Diagnostic Equipment with Everyday Failures

powertrainexpo.com

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:10 AM

 MANAGE Like a Pro

Consumer ATRAs What’s Working team is at it again! This year, Dennis

Madden and Rodger Bland will present the results of a recently
& Industry completed, industry-wide survey to see where the industry has
Studies gone since the program began. Then discover what consumers
think when they consider transmission repair. Valuable data that
you won’t find anywhere but at Expo!

Shop Owner An exciting day of peer-to-peer learning: Leave it to transmission

shop owners to come up with some of the most creative and
to innovative techniques to navigate the challenges of running a shop
Shop Owner in 2018. Veteran industry leader Thom Tschetter will facilitate this
fast-paced and fun day of insights and learning.

Maylan Newton and Danny Sanchez bring their years of experience

Industry to Expo once again to share their observations and discoveries that
Trainers keep the industry riding high. Nothing impresses like success, and
these two have been sharing industry success stories for years.
See what they’ve discovered in today’s market and learn how to
put their discoveries to work for you.

Two facets that define your business and your successes. Get a
Sales & fresh perspective from two new speakers at this year’s Expo —
Leadership Larry Mersereau and Ron Hurst. These two will both inform and
entertain with new ideas to help you redefine your image in ways
that make you stand out from the crowd. Expect some valuable
takeaways that you can put to work the moment you get home.

October 31 - November 3, 2018

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:09 AM

 Exhibitor Lineup
Adapt-A-Case
Allomatic
Alto Products Corp.
Ascension Engineering
ATK and Parts, LLC
Automotive Training Institute
Autoshop Solutions, Inc.
AUTOTRANSTECH S.R.O.
BAAN Powertrain Corp.
Bluereach Powertrain Lab
Capital Core Inc.
Central Valve Bodies, LLC
Cika Automotive Parts Co.
DCM Tech, Inc.
Dura-Bond
EasyPay Finance
ETE Reman
EVT Parts
Exedy Friction Technics
Fatsco Transmission Parts
Federal New Power (Qingdao) Co., Ltd
Ford Motor Company
G-Cor Automotive Corp.
GearSpeed
Genuine GM Parts
GFX Corp.
G-Tec by Flo Dynamics
Hayden Automotive
HGM Automotive Electronics
Hydra-Test/Cottingham Engineering
Hot Flush, LLC
Idemitsu Lubricants America Corp.
JDS Worldwide Corp.
KINERGO JSC
KUHLE, Inc.
Level Seven
Lintex Auto Parts Co., LTD
LUBEGARD®, A Stellar Automotive Group Co.
McLeod Racing, LLC
atra expo 12pg.indd 1
Mopar- FCA US LLC
Motor Age Training
Mustang Dynamometer
NATPRO
North American Powertrain Components
(NAPC)
Northland Transmission Inc.
Omega Machine & Tool, Inc./Valve Body Pro
PML, Inc.
Power Pusher-Div. of Nu-Star, Inc.
Performance Products & Machining
Precision International
Precision of New Hampton, Inc.
ProfitBoost Software
Raybestos Powertrain
Revmax Performance
R.O. Writer Shop Management Software
Rostra Precision Controls, Inc.
Ruian High-Tran Automatic Transmission Co.,
Ltd
Seal Aftermarket Products
Shenzhen Meridian Parts Company
Sonnax Transmission Company
STK Transmission Parts Co., Ltd
SuperFlow Technologies Group
Superior Transmission Parts, Inc.
Sussex Auto Parts, LTD
Synchrony Financial
TCS Performance Transmission Products
Tenn-Tex Automotive
TRANSBRITE / Allen Woods & Associates, Inc.
TransGo
Transmission Digest
Transmission Specialties
Transtar Industries, Inc.
Valve Body Pro
West Coast Standards
Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc.
ZF Services North America
powertrainexpo.com
5/31/18 9:09 AM
 Something for
Steaks
Asian

RESTAURANTS
n
Mexica Italian

American Open for

Breakfast!

October 31 - November 3, 2018

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:09 AM

for everyone!

Grand Bazaar
outdoor area

Food Court

powertrainexpo.com

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:08 AM

 Schedule at a Glance
New
Wednesday 4pm - 5pm GM’s AF50 Aisin 8 Speed FWD - Mike Brown
5:15pm - 7pm Programming Problems & Solutions and more! - Keith Clark
Kick-off
Night!
October 31 4pm - 6pm What’s Working Industry & Consumer Survey Results - Dennis Madden & Rodger Bland

7am - 5pm Attendee Registration

8am - 9:30am Reference Voltage Test Tips You Should Know - Dan Marinucci
9:45am - 11:15am Mercedes “7G-DCT” 7 Speed Dual Clutch Transmission - Mike Souza
11:30am - 1pm Evaluating Rebuild Options When Time is Money - Randall Schroeder
Thursday 2pm - 3:30pm
3:45pm - 5:15pm
GM’s 10L90 vs Ford’s 10R80 - Robert Bateman
Diagnosing Intermittent Electrical Issues - Steve Garrett
November 1 5:30pm - 7pm Friction 101 - Chris Horbach
9am - 4pm Focus on the Solutions, Not the Problems - MaryAnn Croce
By the Numbers-Forwards & Backwards - Mario Jauregui & Thom Tschetter
Going Paperless Transformed My Business - John Braconnier & Thom Tschetter

8am - 5pm Attendee Registration

8am - 9:30am Tips and Tricks from the Builder’s Bench 2018 - John Parmenter
10am - 11:30am ZF’s Mechatronic - Dirk Fuchs
Friday 8am - 12pm Building a Winning Culture: Bring Out the Best In Your Best - Danny Sanchez
November 2 Don’t Just Sit There-Do Something! - Maylan Newton
12pm - 2pm ATRA Luncheon - sponsored by Raybestos
2pm - 7pm Trade Show Open
4pm - 6pm ATRA Chapter President’s Meeting
7pm - 9pm Transtar Cocktail Reception

8am - 5pm Attendee Registration

8am - 9:30am Oxygen Sensors and Fuel Trims - Scott Shotton

8am - 9:30am Honda/Acura Transmission-Past, Present & Future - Sean Boyle
9am - 11am STAND OUT! Differentiate or Disappear - Larry Mersereau

Saturday 11am - 4pm Trade Show Open

November 3 3pm - 5pm MAF Sensors and Fuel Trims - Eric Ziegler
3pm - 5pm Making the Most of Your Diagnostic Equipment with Everyday Failures - Reese Blalock

3pm - 5pm They Just Don’t Understand! Getting Through Without Giving Up, or Giving In - Ron Hurst

3pm - 4pm ATRA Longtimer’s Meeting

5pm - 7pm ATRA Reception

October 31 - November 3, 2018

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:08 AM

 Registration Options
TRADE SHOW TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT COMPLETE
PASS CONFERENCE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
Friday-Saturday Wed. - Saturday Wed. - Saturday Wed. - Saturday
(Nov. 2 - 3) (Oct. 31 - Nov. 3) (Oct. 31 - Nov. 3) (Oct. 31 - Nov. 3)

Access to Technical Seminars

Access to Management Seminars
Expo Tech Manual
Expo Tech Program Download
Expo Management worksheets
with leather binder
Expo Management Program Download
Coffee Breaks
Friday Luncheon
Friday & Saturday Cocktail Receptions
Friday & Saturday Trade Show
Audio recordings of both the
Technical & Management semnars
AS LOW AS AS LOW AS AS LOW AS AS LOW AS
$30 $395 $395 $445

New!

Payment Plans Available

YOUR MONTHLY PAYMENT
REGISTER IN
CAN BE AS LOW AS*
MAY $79 $79 $89
JUNE $99 $99 $112
Now an easier JULY $132 $132 $149
AUGUST $198 $198 $223
way to bring
TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT COMPLETE
your whole CONFERENCE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
shop to Expo!
Call ATRA at (800) 428-8489 for details!
*Chart shows payments for 1 Registration at the Advanced Member price.
ATRA Payment Plan available only on Conference ticket purchases.

powertrainexpo.com

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:08 AM

 How
HowTo
ToRegister
Register
(800)
(800)428-8489
428-8489 Fax
FaxReg
Regform
formto:
to:
or
or (805)
(805)988-6761
988-6761
(805)
(805)604-2000
604-2000

Send
SendReg
Regform
formto:
to:
ATRA
ATRAExpo
ExpoRegistration
Registration
powertrainexpo.com
powertrainexpo.com 2400
2400Latigo
LatigoAve
Ave
Oxnard,
Oxnard,CA
CA93030
93030

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PowertrainExpo.com ATRA
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atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:07 AM

 Registration Form
October 31 - November 3, 2018 • Las Vegas, NV
Company Name ATRA Account Number

Contact Person: (will receive all correspondence)

Address

City State Zip

Country Email Address

Area Code Phone No. Fax No.

( ) ( )
TO REGISTER: Call toll free 1-800-428-8489 or FAX this completed form to 805-988-6761
Badges will be issued from this list. Use a separate sheet for additional registrations. * CONFERENCES ADDITIONAL
(Includes Luncheon & Trade Show)
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY TICKETS
TITLE: Owner Manager Complete Trade Show Lunch &
Conference Technical Management Only Trade Show
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________

Discount for current ATRA Members only.

Join or renew today and enjoy the member discount right away!
Advanced Purchase Standard Pricing
Before Aug. 10th Aug. 11th - Oct. 5th ALL
REGISTRATION FEES Qty Member Non Mem Member Non Mem ON-SITE SUBTOTAL

Complete Conference Registrant* _____ $ 445 $ 545 $ 545 $ 645 $ 745 $____________
Technical or Management Conference* _____ 395 495 495 595 695 $____________
Trade Show Only _____ 30 30 30 30 40 $____________
Extra Luncheon Ticket - Includes Trade Show Pass _____ 50 60 50 60 75 $____________
(Included with Complete, Tech & Management Conferences)

*Conference Registrants may receive Trade Show Passes for spouse and/or TOTAL $____________
children by contacting ATRA Registration at 1-800-428-8489.
All cancellation requests made
after 10/1/2018 are subject to a
I do not wish to receive any advertising or promotional material from Exhibitors. $50 cancellation fee.

PAYMENT INFORMATION
* Check enclosed payable and mail to: ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030 Check # ______________
Charge to: * MasterCard * Visa * AMEX * Discover
Card Number ___________________________________________________ Expiration Date Security Code

Print Name on Card __________________________________________________________ Signature __________________________________________

atra expo 12pg.indd 1 5/31/18 9:07 AM

 6T70/6F55 Pump Chain Alignment Tool GM 6T70/75 & Ford 6F50/55
PART# K0140 DETERMINATOR™ Plate
The 6T70/6F55 Pump PART# K0141
Allows in car
Chain Alignment Tool’s
testing of main
unique features allow
case to determine
you to size the converter
integrity of clutch
stator sealing ring as
packs/rings/
well as align the pump
sealing areas
gear, washers and chain
and isolate a bad
onto the sprockets,
TECHM/VB from
keeping it taught and on
the internals. When a defect is determined in a specific internal
the sprockets. Our tool
component you’re able to identify & correct it quickly. Use also
stays in place for the rest
as a diagnosis aide during re-build to determine problems on the
of the build process and you can leave it in until you have it on
bench, before it is installed. Comes in handy when no codes are
the jack ready for the converter.
present and you’re chasing your tail.

SUPERIOR TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC. SUPERIOR TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC.

1-800-451-3115 • www.superiortransmission.com 1-800-451-3115 • www.superiortransmission.com

56 GEARS June 2018

1shop-tools-equip 0618 v2.indd 56 5/31/2018 08:11:40

 Lubegard Platinum ® High Performance ATF Protectant
LUBEGARD®’s proprietary technologies raises
the bar on the competition. Platinum® is uniquely
formulated using patented synthetic LXE® (liquid wax
ester) and Synergol® TMS Technologies. Together
these technologies provide the most advanced and
complete transmission protection on the market.
Use this as a Conversion Additive to enhance base
ATFs into OEM ATF equivalents. Simply add to the
recommended base ATF (except Ford Type F and CVT)
to create a premium OEM ATF equivalent which saves
time and money. This one product eliminates ATF
confusion, requires minimal shelf space, and costs
significantly less than OEM ATFs. Supplementing your
current ATF with Platinum® will extend the life of the
ATF and the transmission and is easily included in
your regular maintenance schedule.

CONTACT: Noriko Anderson - International Lubricants Inc.

TEL: 206-762-5343 x16 • FAX: 206-762-7989

The STL-HOT Honda/Acura Shift Valve Tool Lubegard Limited Slip Supplement
PART# STL-HOT LUBEGARD® Limited Slip Supplement is a
The Honda/Acura
Part# STL-HOT tool is concentrated friction modifier formulated
designed for use during specifically for eliminating noise and chatter
rebuild or during in car in clutch type limited slip differentials. It can
diagnosis & repair. Air check safely be used in all limited slip differentials
valves after valve bodies & with either synthetic or petroleum lubricants
pump are torqued or in car and replaces manufacturer-recommended
for diagnosis & repair to friction modifiers, including Jeep. LXE®
determine cause of fault (vital Technology will enhance heat transfer by
for warranty/comeback issues) pulling heat out of the gearbox and clutches
typical test takes about 10 more quickly, providing cooler running
minutes. Includes typical shift units. This formula also contains rust and
valve chart to determine which corrosion inhibitors to protect bearings and
valve is sticking. gear surfaces.
SUPERIOR TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC. CONTACT: Noriko Anderson - International Lubricants Inc.
1-800-451-3115 • www.superiortransmission.com TEL: 206-762-5343 x16 • FAX: 206-762-7989

SUPERIOR’S 6F35/6T40 SuperTuff® Solution Lubegard COMPLETE™ CVT Fluid

PART# K0199 & Part # K0100 LUBEGARD®’s COMPLETE™ CVT FLUID is
The K0100 Kit includes our
high-quality, 3-piece tool set engineered to meet and exceed OEM fluid
designed for quick removal of requirements eliminating the need to stock
the over 60+ fluids currently available.
the worn bushing and an indexed This premium CVT fluid is infused with
re-installation of the SuperTuff® LUBEGARD®’s proprietary LXE® Technology
bushings. The two-sided driver that protects continuously variable
head also serves as the driver to transmissions by minimizing friction between
install the included seal made of belts & pulleys and defends against fatigue
better-than-OEM materials. Kit damage. Our CVT fluid provides superior
includes (5) axle seals and (5) anti-shudder performance and imparts both
shear and oxidative stability to the fluid. Best
original K099 SuperTuff® Teflon®
of all, it remains fluid at low temperatures
bushings. Order K0199 2014-up for excellent operation in cold weather, and it
6F35 LATE type separate prevents sludge and varnish build up.
(not included in K0100).
SUPERIOR TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC. CONTACT: Noriko Anderson - International Lubricants Inc.
1-800-451-3115 • www.superiortransmission.com TEL: 206-762-5343 x16 • FAX: 206-762-7989

GEARS June 2018 57

1shop-tools-equip 0618 v2.indd 57 5/31/2018 08:11:47

 Arbor Press
Ratcheting Arbor Press with 8” x 18”
Base. If you have attended a CVT
workshop sponsored by Whatever
It Takes, then you have seen this
press in action. This press used in
conjunction with the WIT Press Plate
aids the process of tearing down and
reassembling the variators in the
Nissan CVT.

WHATEVER IT TAKES TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC.

Toll Free 1-800-940-0197 • www.wittrans.com

Aisin SL Solenoid Cleaning Tool Kit CVT Press Plate

Sussex Auto Parts are stockists of the Aisin SL This CVT Press Plate is
Solenoid Cleaning Tool kit. This tool kit allows custom made for Whatever It
for the complete overhaul of the Aisin 5 and 6 Takes Transmission Parts, Inc.
speed SL Solenoids. and is used in conjunction
Apart from incorrect calibration of the 5 speed with the Ratcheting Arbor
SL solenoids, the main concern with them is Press. This plate allows the
dirt ingress. The unique opening method variators in the Nissan CVT
is quick and easy. Following on by
to sit in the arbor press and
re-forming the canister prior to
Solenoid assembly. Then simply stabilize them during the
press to close the entire solenoid disassembly and reassembly
leaving it as if it had never been process.
apart in the first place. The tool kit
comes complete with video instructions. Very soon you
will be fitting clean, working solenoids to your valve body overhaul.

CONTATCT: Matt Hyne - Sussex Auto Parts, Ltd. WHATEVER IT TAKES TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC.
+44 1323 848886 • INFO@SUSSEXAUTOS.COM Toll Free 1-800-940-0197 • www.wittrans.com

Automotive Power Pusher™ TJ-1

The Automotive Power Pusher® is a battery- Posi-Lock TJ-1 Transmission Bearing
powered, heavy-duty, multi-use device designed
to move immobilized vehicles more efficiently and Puller (2 Jaw)(9 1/4” Reach)(2 3/4”
help reduce the risk of injury. It is able to push to 14 3/4” Spread Range) This is the
or pull almost anything on wheels and can move tool that you have seen at the CVT
inoperable vehicles up to 18,000 lbs. with only two
people, instead of five or six normally required to workshops sponsored by Whatever
move them. It Takes. This tool is a must for
• The Automotive Power Pusher® is the most disassembling and reassembling
efficient tool a service department or fleet can the variators in the Nissan CVT
employ, not just an extra piece of equipment, it’s
a working member of your team requiring little transmissions.
maintenance
• It increases productivity and reduces direct labor cost, getting the job done in less time with less
people
• The Automotive Power Pusher® is ready when you are with its built-in battery charger – plug
into a 115V outlet when the unit is not in use
• It is durable, mobile, easily stored and fits through most standard doorways

POWER PUSHER, DIVISION OF NU-STAR, INC. WHATEVER IT TAKES TRANSMISSION PARTS, INC.
1-800-800-9274 • WWW.POWERPUSHER.COM Toll Free 1-800-940-0197 • www.wittrans.com

58 GEARS June 2018

1shop-tools-equip 0618 v2.indd 58 5/31/2018 08:11:54

 T-0154-M
This Slide Hammer is perfect for those tight areas! Hex shaped
design allows the weigh to be used to turn the shaft. The shaft
has 3/8” threads on one end and 10mm threads on the other.
This Slide Hammer is just under 2 lbs & 11 inches long.
Two Slide Hammers are perfect for removing
transmission pumps.
Remote Assisted Programming (RAP) KIT
Programming can be expensive, complicated and
time-consuming. Towing a vehicle to a dealer or
using a mobile programming service cuts into your
schedule and profits. The RAP (Remote Access
Programming) Kit, exclusively from Transtar, allows
you to program and flash a vehicle right from your
shop! No additional tools, training, software
or expensive subscriptions required.
Best of all, the Remote Assisted
Programming Kit is absolutely FREE! The
kit includes a tablet, the vehicle interface,
an OBD-II connector, and a 4G dongle. Each
programming event is only $125.
It’s everything you need, packed into an easy-to-use, all-in-one kit. Programming
a vehicle has never been this easy!

CONTACT: Dale Williams CONTACT: Mike Wilt, Digital Marketing Specialist • mwilt@transtar1.com
TECKPAK-FITZALL • 1-800-527-2544 TRANSTAR INDUSTRIES • 440-201-8174

TK-56-RTD Transmission Line Repair Master Kit by AGS

For easy removal and The Transmission Line Repair
replacement of Shift Master Kit from AGS (Transtar
Pins in A4LD, 4R44, Part#: TRK-555) takes the
4R55, 5R55, AODE, hassle out of transmission/oil
cooler line repair! Everything
AOD, 4R70W & 4R you need in one place to repair
100 Transmissions. or replace cracked or leaking
The counter bore bit transmission/oil cooler lines
is hollow and fits over quickly and easily.
the existing pin to The master kit, TRK-555,
remove material from includes connectors, adapters,
around it. This allows you to easily remove the pin with a pair of tube nuts, as well as the hose,
needle nose plyers. clamps, and pliers in one convenient place! The kit contains components for
5/16 and 3/8 lines for use on most domestic and import applications. The
Kit includes (1) 3MM “Easy Pull” Replacement Pin rubber hose is durable triple-walled and is pressure rated up to 250 PSI. With
and (1) 1/8” “Easy Pull” Replacement Pin the master kit your repair is as easy as one, two…done!
CONTACT: Dale Williams CONTACT: Mike Wilt, Digital Marketing Specialist • mwilt@transtar1.com
TECKPAK-FITZALL • 1-800-527-2544 TRANSTAR INDUSTRIES • 440-201-8174

T4T65-326 SPS-12 Smart Power System by AutoMeter

“SAVE YOUR PRNDL The Smart Power System by AutoMeter (Transtar
SWITCH” by using this Part#: SPS-12) provides power through the
Slide Hammer Attachment vehicle’s OBD-II port or 12v outlet (with optional
adapter) to keep vehicle computer systems
to Pull out those supplied with power when the battery is
stubborn “Nailhead” type disconnected or removed. A direct AC power
transmission pins. connection insures 100% uptime during battery
out-of-service with no need to charge the unit
Simply INSERT, TWIST during service.
& PULL to remove those The SPS-12 also features Easy to read LED
“PRNDL” pins from 4T65E, indicators that show low, medium, or high current
6T70/75, 6F40/45/50/55 draw aiding in diagnosis of parasitic electrical
and other transmissions draw that could cause the battery to discharge when the vehicle is not in use.
with “Nailhead” type pins. This must-have tool preserves your customer’s radio/infotainment settings,
memory and engine/transmission adaptations.

CONTACT: Dale Williams CONTACT: Mike Wilt, Digital Marketing Specialist • mwilt@transtar1.com
TECKPAK-FITZALL • 1-800-527-2544 TRANSTAR INDUSTRIES • 440-201-8174

GEARS June 2018 59

1shop-tools-equip 0618 v2.indd 59 5/31/2018 08:11:59

 POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS
Serop “Jim” Vartanian
April 24, 1937 – May 20, 2018
ATRA is saddened to announce
the passing of Jim Vartanian,
founder and owner of International
Torque Converters in Fresno,
California.
Jim was born in Syria. His
early years were marred when his
mother passed away when he was
only seven. Over the next several
years, Jim attended school while
working on his father’s farm. He
wanted to become a professional
photographer, but his father pushed
him toward a career as a machinist.
It was a decision that would prove
valuable as his future unfolded.
He immigrated to the U.S. in
1964, to join his uncle and his brother
in Fresno. A year later he took a job
as a machinist with Datco.
One day the owner approached
Jim and asked if he could rebuild
torque converters. Jim said he
could — even though he’d never
even seen one apart before — and
a week later had designed and built
the machinery they would need to
begin rebuilding torque converters.
One of his tools enabled him to
60 GEARS June 2018
1PINS 0618.indd 60
GEARS does not endorse new products but makes this new information available
to readers. If you have a new product, please email the press release information
with applicable digital photo or drawing to apena@atra.com or send by mail to
GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030.
assemble and leak check the
converter at the same time.
In 1974, Jim left Datco and the
following year opened International
Torque Converters. It was originally
in a small building, just a block
away from its current location.
When he opened he had just one
customer: Macy Automotive. But
he quickly became so busy he had
to break off his relationship with
Macy. A year later, he purchased
the land and built the current 4,000
sq.ft. building.
In his spare time, Jim loved
fishing; he could often be seen
heading off with tackle and pole
to his favorite fishing holes after
work.
Jim is survived by his wife,
Azzy, and three daughters, Aida,
Tina, and Lena. The company had
been operated for the last five years
by Lena’s husband, Raffi Pilavjian.
Jim was a good rebuilder and
a great businessman who touched
many people’s lives over the years;
he will be greatly missed by all
who knew him.
New Bar’s Leaks
CVT Fix Stops Leaks, Noise,
and Slipping
Bar ’s Leaks
introduces CVT
Transmission Fix,
engineered to stop
slips, sluggishness,
and hesitation while
safely and quickly
sealing any leaks in
continuously vari-
able transmissions
(CVT).
CVT design
is fundamentally
different —
more complex
and specialized — than a traditional
automatic transmission, as the engine
speed is kept at the optimum range
for the vehicle’s power and mileage,
resulting in better fuel mileage.
Over time, transmission seals
dry out and shrink, and internal parts
become worn. Conventional automatic
transmission fluid and additives
can’t be used in these specialized
transmissions, which require specific
lubricants for optimal performance.
After more than a year in
development, Bar’s Leaks CVT
Transmission Fix has been engineered
to work effectively with all CVT
fluids. Its synthetic blend contains a
seal conditioner, extreme pressure and
anti-wear agents, detergents, and a
performance additive booster to stop
belt/chain slipping, seal fluid leaks, and
reduce noise.
“Vehicles with continuously
variable transmissions can offer a
smoother ride, but they also hit bigger,
more expensive road blocks when
leaks, noise, and other performance
issues present themselves,” says Clay
Parks, vice president of development
for Bar’s Leaks. “We developed CVT
Transmission Fix to provide a one-stop,
cost-effective resource that customers
can count on to easily solve these
problems themselves.”
Bar’s Leaks is offering a $5 rebate
on CVT Transmission Fix from June
1 – June 30 to customers who visit
5/31/2018 08:10:32
 autocarerewards.com following their
purchase.
Visit www.barsleaks.com/product/
cvt-transmission-fix-1414 to learn
more about CVT Transmission Fix.
New On-Demand
Video Training
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skyrocketed! Motor Age Training
CONNECT is your new go-to source
for the highest quality mechanical
repair training in the market. With
more than 350 videos in the library
– and more added biweekly – you
have access to multiple resources
for any problem you face. Watch the
videos 24/7, and train on-demand or
with modules expertly designed to
improve your skills. Solve problems,
learn new skills or study for ASE
Certification thanks to the videos’ new
alignment with the A Series. Monthly
subscriptions are only $24.90 with no
locked-in contracts! Try before you
buy! Sign up now for a three-video free
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and information Motor Age Training
CONNECT videos provide. http://
connect.motoragetraining.com.
Mudlick Mail Appoints
Zenon Olbrys Chief
Financial Officer
Direct mail
provider Mudlick
Mail has appoint-
ed Zenon Olbrys
chief financial
officer. Olbrys is
a financial and
operational busi-
ness expert who
has specialized in
start-ups, business
transformations, and high-growth com-
panies.
For more than two decades, Olbrys
has led private equity ventures in the
U.S., Russia, Poland, and the Baltic
countries, leveraging technology and
GEARS June 2018 61
1PINS 0618.indd 61
innovation to grow those endeavors.
His previous positions include serving
as CFO for PCC Technology Group,
where he led financial and strategic
management for the company and
prepared the firm for an eventual sale.
He also founded MoreHouse Finance
Company, which provided loans to
fund home improvement projects.
Olbrys also served in executive
positions for a variety of European
companies, including the Bank of
Moscow and Kraft Foods International.
“It’s quite a coup for Mudlick to
land someone of Zenon’s caliber to lead
our financial strategy. His experience
and expertise will be of great value
as we transition into a new phase of
growth,” said Mudlick president and
CEO Tim Ross.
Olbrys began his career with the
accounting firm Arthur Andersen. He
earned his undergraduate degree from
Central Connecticut State University
and his MBA from The Ohio State
University. He also completed the
Advanced Management Program in
Global Leadership at the University of
Oxford.
Visit www.mudlickmail.com for
more information.
Sonnax 6L80 Series
Early and Late Style
Reman Valve Bodies
Sonnax now offers a full range
of remanufactured GM 6L80 valve
bodies featuring top-quality Sonnax
components that optimize valve body
function and prevent future wear. Every
critical area is reviewed, refreshed, and
repaired for results you can trust.
• Available for 6L45, 6L50, 6L80, and
6L90 applications
• State-of-the-art testing verifies AFL,
clutch, TC, and compensator feed
pressures match OE specs
• Quality report plus tech and install
tips ship with every unit
• Includes limited lifetime warranty
Learn more at www.sonnax.com
Dartco Transmission
Offers Custom External
Wiring Harnesses
Dartco Transmission is now
offering custom external transmission
wiring harnesses to its customers.
These custom harnesses are
available upon request and are made
to order per customer specifications.
Available options include 1K, 2K, 3K,
4K, B500, and some ATEC models.
Visit www.dartcotransmission.com/
custom-wiring-harnesses to request a
custom harness.
Alto Introduces New
ZF Pressure Plates
Alto Products Corp now offers
two steel pressure plates for the
ZF8HP55, ZF8HP70, and ZF8HP90
transmissions.
Alto P/N 216705A356 (right) is
for the C and E clutches, and Alto P/N
216707-295 (left) is for the D clutch.
These plates are available individually
and both are in stock and ready for
immediate delivery.
Visit www.altousa.com for more
information on these pressure plates
and other Alto products.
SHIFTMobility Debuts
Blockchain Secured Mobile
Vehicle Inspection Sheet
SHIFTMobility Inc., the leading
provider of blockchain powered
connected shop solutions, announced
today the release of CarCheck Pro
smart vehicle inspections.
CarCheck Pro is a thoroughly
modern take on automotive safety
inspections that enables any service
5/31/2018 08:10:34
 POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
center to quickly add or retrieve vehicle
information from blockchains via an
integrated VIN scanner or license plate
lookup. From there, they can select
from an extensive library of canned
or custom inspection forms, breeze
through with step-by-step interactive
guidance, and instantly share with
customers over email or SMS.
With CarCheck Pro, repair
shops can send dynamic service
recommendations and alerts to
consumers in the fashion they’ve come
to expect from modern, mobile-friendly
businesses.
Built on the SHIFTMobility
Automotive Cloud Platform, CarCheck
Pro works on any mobile device or
desktop browser and delivers the same
agility, interoperability, and security
as all SHIFTMobility automotive
solutions. And its built-in blockchain
technology allows for complete
inspection history to transfer with
the vehicle should ownership change
hands.
“CarCheck Pro is the answer to the
lack of consumer trust prevalent in the
automotive repair industry,” says Elliott
Schendel, director of marketing. “When
vehicle inspection reports are simple
to create, easy to understand, secured
by blockchain technology, and can
be delivered directly to the recipients
preferred device, service centers can
stimulate customer engagement and
foster trust through transparency.”
Visit www.shiftmobility.com/
carcheck/ for more information.
Lubegard Introduces
SEAL FIXX: A New
Additive to Stop Leaks
LUBEGARD®
SEAL FIXX™ is an
industrial strength
and cost effective
stop leak that works
quickly. This unique
formula will lubricate
and revitalize worn
or dried out seals
safely without caus-
ing harm to internal
components.
LG-205 SEAL FIXX
is compatible with:
• Conventional and synthetic ATFs,
motor oils, power steering fluids and
62 GEARS June 2018
1PINS 0618.indd 62
automotive and industrial hydraulic
fluids
• Diesel and gasoline engines
• Industrial and farming applications
that require hydraulic fluid such as
jacks, tractors, plows, lifts, etc.
SEAL FIXX works in:
• Engines — including main seals
• Power steering systems
• Automatic and manual tansmissions
• Differentials
SEAL FIXX:
• Quickly stops seal-related leaks
• Easy to use
• Maximum strength formula
• Fast acting formula
• Economical seal leak repair and
treatment
• Effective on all rubber seals and
gaskets
To use SEALFIX, bring the system
to normal operation temperature. Add
LUBEGARD SEAL FIXX to system,
making sure that the total volume
does not exceed the maximum fill
level. Do not use in empty system.
One 8-ounce bottle will treat a 6-quart
capacity system. Adjust usage based on
capacity. Normal treat rate is 1.3 to 1.5
ounces per quart.
Visit www.Lubegard.com for more
information.
MAHLE Introduces
ShopPRO® 10-Ton
Wheel Lift
The ShopPRO ® CWL-10; an
innovative air operated midrise 10-ton
commercial wheel lift that provides a
shop with unsurpassed flexibility and
quick access to major components on
all types of vehicles. The wheel lift
system takes all the guess work out
of safely lifting any vehicle, while the
positive pinning system provides safe
and clear access under one end of the
vehicle.
The CWL-10 is ideally suited for
shops with low ceiling heights and
features a built-in vehicle support
stand that allows complete open access
under the vehicle. The 100 percent
air operated system provides years of
maintenance and worry-free lifting.
The portable design eliminates
the need for a dedicated bay. The
maximum lifting height of 24 inches is
perfect for major component removal.
It also increases shop productivity
because there is no wasted time
removing aerodynamics from vehicles.
The CWL-10 has a wide, spring
loaded base to provide users with a
stable platform to allow for the secure
lifting of a wide array of vehicles. The
unit comes with small wheel adapters.
A dual trigger control valve allows for
the synchronized raising and lowering
of a vehicle.
MAHLE Service Solutions has
partnered with Gray Manufacturing to
offer ShopPRO® - a full line of the
highest quality hydraulic and pneumatic
equipment for the commercial vehicle
market. The ShopPRO product line
includes 12 family product categories:
air lifts, axle jacks, component lifts,
engine stands, fluid handling, forklift
jacks, service jacks, shop cranes,
shop presses, support stands, vehicle
lifts and wheel service equipment.
This is the broadest line of U.S. made
lifting equipment in the heavy duty
marketplace.
Visit www.servicesolutions.mahle.
com/en/products/shoppro-jacks-and-
lifting/ for more information.
5/31/2018 08:10:35
 SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS
GEARS Shopper advertising costs $325.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed
elsewhere in the magazine and are charged at comparable rates. Check or money order must accompany all orders.
For information on Shopper advertising in GEARS, contact GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, or call
(805) 604-2000.

ERIKSSON INDUSTRIES
Division of Wentworth Engineering

1-800-388-4418
Need Hard
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•Reman Trans 6HP - 5HP - 4HP
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•MECHATRONICS - Programmed •
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Just Ask!
Soft Parts / Friction Kits / Steel Kits / Repair Manuals
• Lifetime Fluids / Rebuild Kits / Valvebody Kits

1-800-388-4418
Fax: (860) 395-0047
www.zftranspart.com 1.877.888.5160
146B Elm St., Old Saybrook, CT 06475

gcor-just-ask-2014-2.25x3-shopper.indd 1 12/1/13 7:18 PM

COMPUTERS
ECM TCM PCM BCM
Foreign & Domestic

Computer Module Specialist Engine Control Module (ECM)

Off Vehicle Flash Programming Transmission Control Module (TCM)

A/C PARTS
A/C COMPRESSORS A/C Parts Specialist

Accept Major Credit Cards One Year Warranty

AUTOCOMP
Technologies, Inc.
8515 North Freeway, Houston, TX 77037

888-217-4072

Stay in the loop on • Transfer Case Assemblies

all things Sonnax. with Encoder Motors
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800-242-2844

GEARS June 2018 63

1shoppers0618.indd 63 5/31/18 8:54 AM

 SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS
GEARS Shopper advertising costs $325.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed
elsewhere in the magazine and are charged at comparable rates. Check or money order must accompany all orders.
For information on Shopper advertising in GEARS, contact GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, or call
(805) 604-2000.

BMW Mercedes-Benz Audi

Remanufactured to
Perfection
Hundreds of Transmissions in-stock.
Immediate installation available.
2 year unlimited warranty.
Dyno-tested.
Remanufactured torque converter included.

Toll free 800 - 372 - TRANS

1331 Rollins Road • Burlingame, CA 94010
tel 650 - 348 - 3990 fax 650 - 348 - 3019

FREE* WEBINARS!
The Future of
JOIN TODAY AT Training at
Members.atra.com Your Fingertips

(805) 604-2000

ATRA Webinars are presented every two

weeks from January to October.
HOW TO PARTICIPATE:
Login at http://members.atra.com and
click on the webinar schedule under
the events menu. Once registered, you
will receive an email confirming your
registration along with the information
you need to join the webinar.

This and other technical webinars *Free for everyone on the

are made possible by; day of the webinar. ATRA
Members have access to all
pre-recorded webinars. See
page 43 for details.

64 GEARS June 2018

1shoppers0618.indd 64 5/31/18 8:54 AM

 Best!
Expect the
WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED
FOREIGN & DOMESTIC
Standard Transmissions
Transfer Cases
Quality New & Used Parts
Remanufactured Rebuilt Units
Torque Converters *ONE CALL DOES IT ALL*
Distributorships Available
CALL
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Visit our website:
www.cvcconverters.com 866-571-GEAR
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800.727.4461

NEED QUALITY
The FW6A-EL Rebuild/
CONVERTERS?
Reference manual includes
an expanded reference
section. This section includes
vital specifications, solenoid
identification/function, clutch
and solenoid apply charts!
Also, complete instructions for
rebuilding the unit including
special procedures broken
down the way it would be
handled in your shop.
Build them yourself with ATI’s
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Pick up the FW6A-EL Rebuild/
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6718 Whitestone Road • Baltimore, MD 21207

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Find vintage cores on “Memory Lane” www.transmissionpartswashers.info

aamidwestcores.com www.equipmentmanufacturing.com

GEARS June 2018 65

1shoppers0618.indd 65 5/31/18 8:55 AM

 SHOPPER CLASSIFIED
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
advertisements in GEARS annually (per 10 issues). Members wishing to place ads once their three FREE ads have been placed may do so at the cost listed
above. Ads exceeding the maximum word count will cost $1.50 for each additional word (not including phone number and address).
EXPLORE
our full line of high-precision
TORQUE CONVERTER
rebuilding equipment.
www.SuperFlow.com/gears | 1.888.442.5546
BUSINESS FOR SALE: Steubenville Ohio
– Pittsburgh Area. This area needs this
shop to stay open! Owner wants to retire
and wishes for a transition take over. Little
competition, very clean-very nice shop,
good reputation, 4 bays, 3 new lifts. Will
finance for the right person. Call (740)
264-6350.
BUSINESS FOR SALE: Ville Platte,
Louisiana – Established reputable
business featured in October 2016 GEARS
magazine. Owner must retire for health
reasons. 2 inside bays with 1 outside truck
lift, Snap-On equipment, too much to list.
Also has an apartment in shop with full
kitchen. Contact Alan: (337) 363-4897.
ATRA Mbr
BUSINESS FOR SALE: Amarillo, Texas
– Established and reputable transmission
shop for over 20 plus years, 60X70 sq. ft.
shop with 20X30 sq. ft. add on build room,
4 semi truck trailers with parts, 5 lifts, 1
large-30,000 lbs. outside lift, Chassis dyno.
Too much equipment to list. Contact Teresa
(806) 372-2210. ATRA Mbr
WANTED: 1965-1986 Ford C4/C5 valve
bodies. Must be non rusted/rebuildable
units. Any quantities accepted, will pay up
to $50.00 per unit. Contact Performance
Automatic for details. (240) 439-4650
66 GEARS June 2018
1classfd0618.indd 66
June 2018
The leader in remanufactured valve bodies
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performanceautomatic.com.
HELP WANTED: INDUSTRY EXPERTS
NEEDED - Precision of New Hampton
is seeking qualified individuals proficient
in Transmissions, Solenoids, Soft and
Hard Parts.  Must be willing to relocate
to New Hampton, IA.  Long term growth
and management opportunities in a
financially sound and continuously growing
manufacturing company.  Call (800) 654-
1220 or email Jobs@GoPNH.com.
ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: Shop that has been
in business for 38 years is looking for
a responsible and caring transmission
technician. Ability to rebuild most makes
of transmissions both domestic and foreign
models. Able to do some R & R. Require
Clean & organized work ethic. Pay based
off experience $45,000-$75,000, Computer,
wiring and Hi-Performance experience is
a plus. Driver’s license required. Must
have own tools. We provide special tools.
Our normal business hours are 8am-
5pm & 9am-6pm 5 days a week. We
are located close to Mooresville,
Indiana off highway 67. (317) 831-3066 -
email: rallison@aandatrans.com.
ATRA MEMBERS
RECEIVE 3 FREE!
805.604.2025
www.gearsmagazine.com
GEARS classified advertising cost $95.00
for up to 50 words for a one time inser-
tion. ATRA members are eligible to receive
up to three (3) FREE classified advertise-
ments in GEARS annually (per 10 issues).
Members wishing to place ads once their
three FREE ads have been placed may do so
at the cost listed above. Ads exceeding the
maximum word count will cost $1.50 for each
additional word (not including phone number
and address).
HELP WANTED: $5000 Sign on Bonus for
qualified candidates - Career Opportunity in
sunny Clearwater Florida. Family business,
offers sign on bonus for an ATRA Certified
Builder, R&R Driveability Technician &
Manager to work for busy spacious 6000 sq.
ft. shop. Alltech Transmission’s is seeking
highly motivated talent to operate a 45 year
business. We specialize in transmissions.
Must have a superior skill set with a winning
attitude. Benefits, Stock Options & Health
Insurance. Email Resume: Nicolecapital@
live.com. ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: West Central
Florida Transmission Shop seeking
highly motivated Electrical Diagnostic
Transmission Technician - Must have
knowledge in re-flashing - Wiring diagrams
- R & R capabilities - Must have own tools
- Minimum 5 years transmission experience
- No weekends – Pay dependent upon
experience - Excellent benefits - Email
resume to brktrans@yahoo.com or call
Chris at (352) 796-6544. ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: San Diego’s largest,
longest running independently owned
transmission repair specialist is looking
for qualified diagnosticians and sales
managers. With 3 locations you’ll have
plenty of support and opportunities for
growth. Competitive pay, state of the art
5/31/18 8:53 AM
 Don't Miss the ATRA SEMINAR Near You!

ATRA TECHNICAL SEMINARS

8/4 - San Antonio, TX 8/11 - Atlanta, GA 8/18 - Anaheim, CA 800.428.8489
8/25 - Portland, OR 8/25 - Tulsa, OK 9/8 - Billings, MT
http://members.atra.com
MEMBERS.ATRA.COM
9/15 - Newark, NJ 9/22 - Chicago, IL 11/17 - Baltimore, MD

ATRA'S POWERTRAIN EXPO 2018 • OCT. 31ST - NOV. 3RD

facilities, plenty of reliable professionals
to call your teammates and sunshine all
year round. Call: (626) 863-4958 or email:
chadmferrell@gmail.com. ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: Position opening –
Automatic Transmission Rebuilder.
Domestic/Foreign, disassemble, inspect:
find the point of failure, reassemble
transmission, etc. R&R: remove and reinstall
transmission, diagnosis transmission,
technical issues, necessary repairs,
transmission services. This is a part/full time
position with competitive compensation.
Please contact Christina at (925) 228-9000
or email: macyauto@att.net. ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: NATIONAL
EMPLOYMENT HEADQUARTERS FOR
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Fast, Easy and Free service to industry
employees! Low cost and an easy way to
recruit nationwide for shop owners! Serving
the transmission industry since 1997. Visit
our website at: www.transteam.com or call
us toll free at: (888) 859-0994.

Subscribe Today! X
Grab Your GEARS Now! I want my very own subscription
to the next 10 issues of GEARS.

Name _____________________________________ Phone _______________________________

Address______________________________ City ________________ State ______ Zip __________
Signature________________________________________________

U.S. $30 ~ Canada $45 ~ Other Areas $65 — Please enclose check or money order in U.S. funds and send to:
GEARS • 2400 LATIGO AVENUE • OXNARD, CALIFORNIA 93030, or call: (805)604-2000

GEARS June 2018 67

1classfd0618.indd 67 5/31/18 8:53 AM

 ADVERTISERS

NamePage NamePage

ATRA...............................................................33, 37, 39 Precision European Inc............................................... 67

members.atra.com www.PEIus.com
ATRA Powertrain Expo.........................................44 - 55 Precision International................................................. 17
www.powertrainexpo.com www.transmissionkits.com
ATRA Seminars..................................................... 42, 43 Raybestos Powertrain................................................... 9
members.atra.com www.raybestospowertrain.com
ETE Reman................................................................. 31 Seal Aftermarket Products...................................... OBC
www.etereman.com www.sealaftermarketproducts.com
EVT Parts.................................................................... 11 Sonnax Industries...................................................... IFC
www.evtparts.com www.sonnax.com
Ford Customer Service Division.................................... 3 Superior Transmission Parts....................................... 25
www.fordparts.com www.superiortransmission.com
GearSpeed.................................................................. 21 Sussex Auto Parts Ltd................................................. 26
www.gearspeedpartsstore.com www.sussexautos.co.uk
Jasper Engines & Transmissions.............................. IBC Transmission Specialties............................................. 35
www.jasperengines.com www.tsirace.com
LUBEGARD®, A Stellar Automotive Group Transtar Industries, Inc................................................ 19
Company....................................................................... 7 www.transtar1.com
www.lubegard.com Whatever It Takes Transmission
MTS Midwest Transmission Supply............................ 27 Parts, Inc..................................................................... 23
www.midwesttransmission.com www.wittrans.com
Power Pusher Division of Nu-Star, Inc........................ 27 Wolfpack Enterprises.................................................. 41
www.powerpusher.com

ATRA Supplier Members

Reserve your free table top display for the
2018

ATRA 2018 technical seminar series today!

Call (805) 604-2018
See ATRA Seminar
Schedule information at:
members.atra.com
Also see pages 42 & 43.

68 GEARS June 2018

listo-0618.indd 68 6/1/18 7:36 AM

Ads_June2018.indd 502 5/31/2018 08:19:11
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