Counterman

Counterman’s “Guess the Car” contest challenges our readers to solve an automotive riddle, for a chance to win $100. And each month, we receive hundreds of responses from aftermarket professionals trying to guess the model of the vehicle depicted. The correct answer for the June/July contest is the MINI Clubman. The winner is Dan Peterson, a counterman at Bumper to Bumper in Batavia, Illinois. Now, let’s get to know the “Guess the Car” champion. CM: How long have you been working in the auto parts business? DP: Since 2017. I started out part-time as a driver. CM: What do you like most about your job? DP: The variety. Every day is different; it’s not the same old thing. This store has a real small-town feel. A lot of people have been coming for years. I’m a hometown guy, so I recognize a lot of people. It’s always good to connect and see people you know. CM: What’s the coolest car you’ve ever owned or worked on? DP: I bought a brand-new Jeep CJ-5 in 1976 just before I enlisted in the Air Force. Unfortunately, I was without it for two years when I went to Germany. When I got back, I was stationed in Nevada at Nellis Air Force Base, so I got to do a lot of offroading and exploring. Anything that didn’t say “No Trespassing” was fair game. CM: Do you have any interesting hobbies? What do you do for fun? DP: I have a Harley that I ride. Two years ago, my friend and I did the “Iron Butt” challenge, which is 1,000 miles in less than 24 hours. We rode from Batavia, Illinois, to Gillette, Wyoming. They make you turn in all your gas receipts and pictures of your odometer every time you fill up, and I think they calculated it at 1,097 miles. CM: What was that experience like? DP: It was going along smoothly until we hit a hailstorm near Wall, South Dakota, and that pretty much took the wind out of our sails for several hours. We were close to 17 or 18 hours when we finally pulled into our destination. They do another [challenge] called the “Bun Burner,” which is 1,500 miles in 36 hours. We may try that yet, but I don’t know – we’re getting old. CM: What’s your dream car? DP: My dream car right now is I want to buy a high-roof van and convert it to a motorcycle hauler/camper, put some fold-down cots in it and all the solar panels and all that type of stuff. My wife and I travel on the bike quite often, but she thinks sometimes we’d be better-served by driving to our destination and then riding once we get there. The post Meet the ‘Guess the Car’ Champ: Dan Peterson appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

These days, many will tell you that the tuneup is dead – a vestige of a bygone era. But I say the answer is far more subjective. It’s true: People rarely ask for a tuneup. Once the “king” of automotive service, the process of regular adjustments to the carburetor or fuel system – as well as the ignition system – has all but fallen by the wayside. It’s all handled now by a computer. The best part is these computers, known to us as engine or powertrain control modules, do a really great job at it. The worst part is they do such a good job of adjusting things and keeping cars running seemingly flawlessly that many people overlook the basic maintenance that’s still required. What this means is the tuneup is far from dead. It’s more important than ever, and in many aspects the same as it always was. The Way it Was There are many reasons a tuneup was so popular back in the day. Fuel systems (namely carburetors) were inefficient and required occasional adjustment. Spark plugs wore out quickly, often needing cleaning, gap adjustment or replacement. Points wore in pre-electronic ignition systems, requiring a regular dwell adjustment and frequent replacement. Distributor caps, rotors and wires needed frequent replacement to keep ignition systems in top condition. All of these factors and more contributed to very noticeable drivability issues on older cars, prompting owners to get a tuneup. Common replacement items also included air and fuel filters, crankcase ventilation filters and positive crankcase ventilation (PCV) valves, not to mention additional services such as a valve adjustment or belt adjustment. So, how does all this stack up to today’s vehicles? Spark Plugs There’s no comparison between the plugs of yesterday and today. Modern spark plugs simply work better and last a long time, often as long as 100,000 miles. But here’s the catch: They still wear out. As they wear, the computer continuously adjusts fuel mixture and timing to maintain optimum combustion. The engine runs perfectly the whole time, but behind the scenes, more energy is required to jump the gap of the plug. This adds additional load to the coils, eventually causing premature coil failure. Then there’s the potential of trouble removing a plug that’s been stuck in the cylinder head for many years. Ignoring spark plugs can be a costly mistake. It all seems great at first, and plugs definitely don’t need replaced as often as they did in the old days. But, many manufacturers are slimming down the replacement intervals. For me, I’d rather spend a little extra and replace those plugs before the target mileage. Coils and Boots Most modern ignition systems are a coil-on-plug system. They generally work or they don’t, meaning replacing them isn’t going to improve performance. But they don’t last forever. If one has gone bad, the others won’t be far behind. And the boots between the coils and plugs? They’re equivalent to a plug wire – just shorter – and they wear out just the same. In most cases, you can’t see them. They’re hidden from view in the middle of the valve cover. Quite often, the spark-plug-well seals go bad, leaking oil onto the coil boots and destroying them. This is all the more reason for regular inspection, and a reason to replace valve-cover gaskets when replacing plugs, coils and boots. Valve-cover gaskets were never considered part of a tuneup. They can be now. Tuneups = Maintenance Air filters are only new for a second before they start to get dirty. Less air to an engine means less performance. The computer again adjusts the fuel mixture to compensate. Neglected fuel filters can overwork the fuel pump and cause it to fail prematurely. The mass airflow (MAF) sensor sends critical data to the computer for engine operation. Cleaning them can improve performance and prevent drivability issues. It’s amazing how dirty throttle bodies get. Oh, and PCV valves? They’re still on a lot of cars. Even electric vehicles will require a tuneup of sorts. Battery-management systems (BMS) have an algorithm that can cause the indicated range to be less than it actually is, depending on people’s driving and charging habits. Recalibrating the state of charge will prompt the BMS to recalculate and restore the lost range. The bottom line: Maintenance. That’s all a tuneup was and what it still is. And maintenance never goes out of style. The post Making the Case for Tuneups appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Content Professionals Network (ACPN), a community of the Auto Care Association, announced the launch of its first-ever annual sponsorship program. The annual sponsorship program will allow companies to show their support of the ACPN community and the educational advancement of content professionals across the industry, as well as provide year-round promotion of their companies to thousands of content professionals. Sponsorship dollars are directly used to support ACPN’s mission to “Educate, Inspire and Connect” industry professionals who specialize in the management of product-related content. This includes but is not limited to ACPN programs such as: ACPN Pipeline On-Demand Media Content Annual Knowledge Exchange Conference Content Excellence Awards ACP Designation ACPN Scholarship The annual sponsorship program offers five tiers of engagement: Bronze, Silver, Gold, Platinum and Gold. Sponsorship benefits within these tiers can range from logo recognition on theACPN webpage to recognition at the ACPN Chair’s Dinner and Entertainment Event Sponsor at the annual Auto Care Connect Week event. The ACPN sponsorship program is available only to Auto Care Association member companies. For more information and to purchase, please visit ACPN’s sponsorship webpage. The post ACPN Launches Annual Sponsorship Program appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The University of the Aftermarket Foundation (UAF) recently welcomed Highline Warren as a new lifetime trustee. The lifetime-trustee designation is reserved for exceptional donors that support the foundation’s mission of providing scholarships and funding for educational programs that strengthen the automotive aftermarket. Zach Miller, senior vice president, sales for Highline Warren will serve as the company’s representative on the UAF board of trustees. “I am thrilled to represent Highline Warren and join an organization that has a significant impact on the future of our business and its people,” Miller said. “Together, we can ensure more talent joins the industry so many of us have had opportunities to thrive and grow in.” “On behalf of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, we extend our sincere thanks to everyone at Highline Warren and welcome Zach to the UAF board of trustees,” said Bob Egan, chairman of the University of the Aftermarket Foundation. “The generous contribution from Highline Warren will help UAF fund scholarships to attract talented young people to our industry and support educational initiatives, including continuing education for the next generation of aftermarket leaders.” The University of the Aftermarket Foundation is a 501(c)(3) not-for-profit organization, and all contributions are tax-deductible to the extent provided by law. To learn more about the University of the Aftermarket Foundation, apply for a scholarship or grant, or make a donation, visit UofA-Foundation.org, AutomotiveScholarships.com and HeavyDutyScholarships.com. The post Highline Warren Supports UofA Foundation as Lifetime Trustee appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has introduced 10 new professional-quality driving lights as part of the company’s NightViu line. The new lights have been designed to help improve operational safety by dramatically increasing nighttime visibility. Engineered for use in agriculture, construction and mining, the new NightViu driving lights also are suitable for marine and powersports applications. They feature rugged aluminum diecast housings with cataphoretic coating, and resilient shatterproof polycarbonate lenses. Depending on the model, they are rated IP69K or IP67K for ingress protection (IP) from dust and water, according to the company. NightViu multi-function driving lights and lightbars feature free-form reflectors that direct the light beam exactly where it’s needed. NightViu reversing lights feature Fresnel lenses to create a broad field of illumination directly behind the equipment. NightViu driving lights provide up to 5,500 lumens and a beam field length of up to 440 meters. NightViu driving lights feature an integrated electronics driver and thermal management system to allow them to operate safely from minus 40 F to 190 F. They produce from 50 to 100 lumens per watt, depending on the model, and have been designed to ensure that they do not create electrical interference that could affect the vehicle’s existing electronics. “Our new NightViu driving lights provide the illumination that operators need for maximum nighttime safety,” said Edwin Betancourt Jr., product manager, Continental. “With three styles and a choice of configurations, they offer the right light for just about every application.” The post Continental Introduces LED Driving Lights for Off-Highway Use appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

All 50 states (and Washington, D.C.) have some sort of special license-plate category for historic, collectible or classic vehicles. These categories can be somewhat subjective, and individual state requirements vary, but most set a rolling date of roughly 25 years prior to the current model year to be eligible for special plates. Many states also allow classic-vehicle owners to display authentic vintage plates from the year their vehicle was made. Motor vehicle departments across the country have recognized the historical (and monetary) value of keeping classic vehicles on the road, and as parts specialists, we should see value in them as well. No matter if you’re into Brass Era Model Ts, tall-tailfin Cadillacs, Hemi horsepower muscle cars or air-cooled VWs, there’s still a wide assortment of reproduction and aftermarket parts available in our marketplace. Television and streaming services bring us a wide range of motorsports, restorations, DIY-friendly repairs and custom-car builds. If you watch this sort of content regularly, you’re sure to notice product placement as well as outright advertisement for brands we all know, love and stock. Keeping in step with (and up to date on) the current trends will help you stay relevant to the kind of customer who is car-obsessed and usually looking to spend decent chunks of disposable income on their passion. Car shows can give you a window into your local enthusiast communities, allowing you to gauge the popularity of various car cultures in your market. A high car count with a good cross-section of years, makes and modifications would indicate a healthy mix of gearheads and tuners, rodders and racers. This kind of crowd is already well-served by the breadth of merchandise most of us carry, with backup from our warehouses and DCs to cover slower-moving or specialty parts. If the car counts are high, but the diversity of vehicles is low, your advertising and marketing should target the dominant demographics. There’s no sense in working to become the “go-to” source for speed equipment if your local customer base is primarily interested in rock crawling and offroading. Becoming the “go-to” for ANYTHING requires knowledge, patience and the willingness to do a LOT of research. Enthusiasts likely know their vehicle as well as the parts specialist does, and often know it more intimately than many customers ever will. Never be too proud to ask clarifying questions. Each year our catalogs include new-model information, which we must commit to our mental files for future use. Unfamiliarity with a vintage vehicle is no different than unfamiliarity with a new model or feature, except after years of experience, a customer or co-worker may be able to give us a history lesson. Older technicians and parts specialists are retiring from our industry, and there’s bound to be a gap in the knowledge base required to service and supply parts for vintage vehicles. Passing along this information now ensures that vehicles of the past will be valued well into the future. As cars and enthusiasts continue to age, the definitions of “classic” or “collectible” will continue to evolve. Post-boomer generations will gravitate toward the vehicles of their youths, creating a nostalgic demand for vehicles that we regard today as ordinary. As the traditional classics become harder to find (and prohibitively expensive) for the average person to acquire and own, many are simply embracing the alternatives. In Pennsylvania, an “antique vehicle” must be at least 25 years old, but a “classic” only needs to be 15 years old to qualify for a special license plate. In the Keystone State, a well-maintained 2007 Chevy Aveo now could technically be considered a “classic,” and Aunt Karen’s beige 1997 Camry is now a legitimate “antique!” No offense if you’re really invested in your Aveo or Camry, but I hope it never comes to that! The post What’s a Classic Car? appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Earlier this week, the Automotive Service Association, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation sent a letter to Congress reaffirming their commitment to a 2014 national agreement on automotive Right to Repair. In the letter, the organizations “commit that independent repair facilities shall have access to the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized dealer networks.” While the organizations hailed the letter as a show of unity between independent repairers and OEMs on the principle of consumer choice, the Auto Care Association and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers swiftly dismissed the letter as an act of subterfuge on the part of automakers. “Auto Care Association objects to the so-called right-to-repair pact between ASA, SCRS and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation,” Auto Care President and CEO Bill Hanvey said in an email blast. “Auto Care Association, an original signatory to the 2014 memorandum of understanding, was not consulted about, was not a party to and does not support the agreement.” Hanvey noted that neither ASA nor SCRS signed or supported the 2014 memorandum of understanding, and asserted that the associations “represent a small fraction of the independent repair market and do not speak for the automotive aftermarket.” “Auto Care Association, on the other hand, is a national trade association representing over 536,000 companies and affiliates that manufacture, distribute and sell motor vehicle parts, accessories, services, tools, equipment, materials and supplies,” Hanvey said. “Auto Care Association serves the entire supply chain of the automotive aftermarket for the nation’s 292 million registered motor vehicles. Those businesses include over 280,000 repair facilities and 915,000 technicians nationwide.” Ultimately, Hanvey called the agreement “a thinly veiled response by the automotive OEMs to HR 906: The REPAIR Act.” “While the agreement purports to be relevant, all it does is affirm the 2014 memorandum of understanding rather than implement a meaningful solution to preserve the entire automotive aftermarket and the competition and consumer choice that it creates,” Hanvey said. “The agreement between the Alliance, ASA and SCRS is not only designed to create confusion, but also has numerous flaws.” Among those flaws: The agreement is non-binding. There is no way to force OEM participation or to enforce OEM compliance. The agreement does not cover all automakers and there is no requirement for new OEMs to join. The agreement does not obligate OEMs to provide vehicle owners or aftermarket direct access to telematically generated repair and maintenance data. Instead, the OEMs have agreed to make repair and maintenance data available through OEM-controlled systems and tools. Regarding telematics and the wireless transmission of vehicle repair and maintenance data, the OEMs only agree to give access if the data “is not otherwise available” through the OBD II port. This means an independent shop could be forced to subscribe to multiple third-party tools to get access to telematics data, rather than through a single direct source. The agreement fails to address the safety and security of the wirelessly transmitted vehicle data. “The efforts we’re seeing this summer to stop our industry’s momentum of securing our right to repair are only ramping up,” Hanvey concluded. “From the recent NHTSA letter to this new right to repair ‘pact’ from the automakers, there has never been more of a critical time to speak up and make our voices heard in Washington. I hope to see you all in D.C. with us this fall during our Legislative Summit on Capitol Hill, where we will speak in one unified voice with members of Congress on the importance of supporting our industry by passing the REPAIR Act.” ‘Agreement Falls Short’ In a statement, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers called the agreement “a step in the right direction to ensure that consumers are protected.” However, the pact “falls short of all the protections necessary to ensure consumer choice now and into the future for all parties, not only signatories of the pact.” “As a transportation industry, we believe that we have one opportunity to pass federal legislation and that legislation must include the ability to prioritize and protect consumers’ access to both light-duty and heavy-duty vehicle repair and maintenance through all iterations of vehicle technology on the road today and to come,” MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers added. The association asserted that Right to Repair legislation must include: All vehicles in operation – light-duty, medium-duty and heavy-duty Access to telematics and diagnostics data beyond that available just through the OBD II port An enforcement mechanism The ability for independent repair shops, using bi-directional communication, to update vehicles and parts to the latest software Addressing the risk of repair monopolies Language to protect consumers’ access to both light-duty and heavy-duty vehicle repair, maintenance and parts of their choosing through all iterations of vehicle technology on the road today and to come “The agreement does advance the conversation around right to repair and consumer choice, but if automakers and repair shops are prioritized over consumers, fair competition and a free market would not be realized,” the association said. “As a key stakeholder in protecting consumers’ rights and an essential part of the value chain, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers must be a part of the conversation. “MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers welcomes the opportunity to work with all parties to align on a federal solution that reflects the principles of consumer choice and a free market, includes the expertise of the supplier community, has a mechanism for real enforcement and prioritizes consumers, their safety and their economy – and the innovative industry we serve. The Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act (H.R. 906) addresses these needs, and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers continues to support this bill that addresses the above concerns and creates a repair ecosystem that puts consumers at the center.” The post Trade Associations Not Swayed by Data-Access Agreement appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The Automotive Service Association, the Society of Collision Repair Specialists and the Alliance for Automotive Innovation have sent a letter to Congress reaffirming their commitment to a 2014 national agreement on automotive Right to Repair. The organizations represent the nation’s independent repair facilities, auto body shops and leading automakers, respectively. In the letter, the organizations reaffirm their agreement on the 2014 memorandum of understanding, “and commit that independent repair facilities shall have access to the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized dealer networks.” In an attachment to the letter, the organizations reiterate: “There shall be available for purchase by owners of motor vehicles and by independent repair facilities on fair and reasonable terms the same diagnostic and repair information, including service manuals and technical repair updates, that a manufacturer makes available to its authorized dealers through the manufacturer’s internet-based diagnostic and repair information system or other electronically accessible repair information system.” In the letter to member of Congress, the repairers and automakers also wrote: “This commitment was created with our mutual and valued customers in mind: vehicle owners. It affirms that consumers deserve access to safe and proper repairs throughout a vehicle’s lifecycle [and] it is built to last because it anticipates changes in automotive technologies and market evolutions.” Highlights of the agreement include: Access to diagnostic and repair information – Independent repair facilities shall continue to have access to the same diagnostic and repair information that auto manufacturers make available to authorized dealer networks. This applies to: Telematics data needed to diagnose and repair a vehicle if not otherwise available; All vehicle technologies and powertrains, including gasoline, diesel, fuel-cell, electric battery, hybrid and plug-in hybrid electric powertrains. Education and training – A pledge to work together on education and training programs so mechanical and collision repair facilities are fully aware of exactly where and how to obtain repair information,including: Directly through an automaker’s repair website; Shared access points like www.OEM1Stop.com; Via third-party information providers, software and tools. Future advancements – As vehicle technologies and the corresponding demands on repairers evolve, the commitment ensures a level playing field and a forum to discuss future repairer needs as they develop. Repairers and Automakers ‘In Lockstep’ As state legislatures and Congress consider automotive Right to Repair laws, including the REPAIR Act, the parties noted: “…independent repairers and automakers are not at odds on automotive data access, but rather in lockstep on this fundamental principle: Consumers should have choice when it comes to repair options and the ability to have their vehicle serviced in well-equipped shops by well-trained technicians anytime, anywhere, anyplace.” The organizations note that independent repair facilities perform 70% of post-warranty vehicle repairs today, while automakers’ own certified collision networks are comprised of shops that are more than 70% non-dealer owned. “Automakers support Right to Repair, and today’s independent auto repair market is working well with lots of competition,” said John Bozzella, president and CEO of the Alliance for Automotive Innovation. “Auto repairers across the U.S. have access to the same repair and diagnostic information provided to auto dealers. It’s not just automakers who say this. It’s the Federal Trade Commission. And with today’s agreement; it’s also the thousands of independent auto repairers and small businesses in all 50 states who together with automakers have once again made this fundamental commitment to customers.” In the letter, the organizations note that the Federal Trade Commission “has rightfully placed a focus on the repair options available to consumers for all the products they purchase – far beyond just automobiles.” The agency has highlighted automotive repair “as a model for other industries to follow.” “Consumers should absolutely be able to choose quality repairs, performed in accordance with the specific procedures detailed by the vehicle engineers,” said Amber Alley, chairman of the Society of Collision Repair Specialists, and manager of Barsotti’s Body and Fender in San Rafael, California. “They should have the right to be able to do so in an independent repair facility that has invested in the training, equipment and skillset development to meet the rigorous demands of sophisticated, modern vehicles. This expectation is achievable, and consumer options for repairs are not limited by automakers; quite the contrary. Consumers should have the right to a proper and safe repair, and this agreement reinforces the commitment that the entire industry will have the ability to train, equip their facilities, and perform repairs as intended by the vehicle engineers.” ‘Agreement Falls Short’ In a statement, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers called the agreement “a step in the right direction to ensure that consumers are protected.” However, the pact “falls short of all the protections necessary to ensure consumer choice now and into the future for all parties, not only signatories of the pact.” “As a transportation industry, we believe that we have one opportunity to pass federal legislation and that legislation must include the ability to prioritize and protect consumers’ access to both light-duty and heavy-duty vehicle repair and maintenance through all iterations of vehicle technology on the road today and to come,” MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers added. The association asserted that Right to Repair legislation must include: All vehicles in operation – light-duty, medium-duty and heavy-duty Access to telematics and diagnostics data beyond that available just through the OBD II port An enforcement mechanism The ability for independent repair shops, using bi-directional communication, to update vehicles and parts to the latest software Addressing the risk of repair monopolies Language to protect consumers’ access to both light-duty and heavy-duty vehicle repair, maintenance and parts of their choosing through all iterations of vehicle technology on the road today and to come “The agreement does advance the conversation around right to repair and consumer choice, but if automakers and repair shops are prioritized over consumers, fair competition and a free market would not be realized,” the association said. “As a key stakeholder in protecting consumers’ rights and an essential part of the value chain, MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers must be a part of the conversation. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers welcomes the opportunity to work with all parties to align on a federal solution that reflects the principles of consumer choice and a free market, includes the expertise of the supplier community, has a mechanism for real enforcement and prioritizes consumers, their safety and their economy – and the innovative industry we serve. The Right to Equitable and Professional Auto Industry Repair (REPAIR) Act (H.R. 906) addresses these needs, and MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers continues to support this bill that addresses the above concerns and creates a repair ecosystem that puts consumers at the center.” The post Trade Groups, OEMs Agree on Data Access for IRFs appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Autologue Computer Systems has added Al Neal as its vice president of sales. Neal has experience working with parts distributors and providing technology solutions to the automotive aftermarket, Autologue noted. After graduating from Northwood University in 1988, Neal worked with Triad Systems, CCI/Triad and Activant Solutions and most recently joined MAM Software in 2009. His roles as a business-system consultant, e-catalog specialist, account manager and vice president of sales have provided him insights into the industry and fueled his passion for automotive parts distribution, Autologue said. He has built meaningful relationships with industry leaders and has been appreciated and respected for his service and integrity. “Al Neal will be a great addition to our team” said Jim Franco, president of Buena Park, California-based Autologue Computer Systems. “As a company, we are committed to grow and improve our services to the automotive aftermarket, and that includes finding quality people to join us in our endeavor.” The post Al Neal Joins Autologue Computer Systems appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Westar Distribution recently announced the release of its new line of complete air-suspension kits. The kits cover millions of vehicles, depending on the type of kit the customer chooses. Kits are supplied in two configurations: direct replacement kits and complete service kits. Both configurations are available as front, rear or complete kits. Direct replacement kits include: Air spring (if applicable) Air-strut unit Compressor Solenoid or control valve (where applicable) Complete service kits include: Air Spring (to rebuild the original air strut) Compressor Solenoid or control valve (where applicable) For more information and application information, visit the Westar website. The post Westar Distribution Introduces Air-Suspension Kits appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Motul recently launched Motul 8100 Power for the North American market. Motul developed 8100 Power specifically for performance street vehicles that do not require a dedicated track motor oil such as Motul 300V, the company said. The 100% synthetic, ester-based engine oil replaces and expands upon the Motul Sport line and is available in four viscosities for use in naturally aspirated and forced-induction gasoline and diesel engines. “Engineered with modern performance engines in mind, 8100 Power provides the ideal balance between performance and protection,” said Motul USA Marketing Manager Nolan Browning. “With 8100 Power, we are taking what we’ve learned from our decades as a leader in motorsport lubrication technology and applying it to high-performance and tuned street cars. It’s the perfect addition to our line of motor oils for everything from general service to extreme track use.” The new line of 8100 Power products is specially formulated to ensure performance and reliability for turbocharged or naturally aspirated light-duty diesel or gasoline engines across a broad range of temperatures and engine RPMs, according to Motul. Motul 8100 Power is engineered to protect against the risk of low-speed pre-ignition in small-displacement turbocharged direct-injection engines. It delivers oil-film resistance at elevated temperatures for peak engine power, torque and anti-wear protection, thanks to a unique combination of ester base oils and friction modifiers, according to the company. Motul 8100 Power also maintains compatibility with manufacturer warranties with vehicles requiring API SP-grade lubricants as well as full compatibility with bioethanol (E85 and E100), LPG (liquefied petroleum gas), CNG (compressed natural gas) and diesel fuels. Motul 8100 Power is available in 0W-20, 5W-30, 5W-40 and 5W-50 viscosities in 1-liter and 5-liter containers. The high-performance lubricant already has been recommended and extensively tested for high-performance vehicles at manufacturer-recommended drain intervals. The post Motul Adds Line of Motor Oil for High-Performance Vehicles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Autel announced a major software release for its commercial-vehicle diagnostic tablet, the MaxiSYS 909CV. The software release extends coverage for basic and advanced diagnostics, including performing active tests and special functions, to 2023 for North America’s most popular light-, medium -and heavy-duty vehicles, including the best-selling vehicles in the country so far this year: the Ford F-Series, the Chevy Silverado and the Ram pickup. This 909CV software release also includes trucks, buses and SUVs from GMC, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota and Volkswagen. Coverage highlights include: Chevrolet Diagnostics – Read/erase codes, view and graph live data, and perform active tests for Colorado (2022), Express (2022), S-10 (2023), Suburban (2022-2023), Tahoe (2022-2023), Traverse (2022, 2023) and Trailblazer (2023). Service functions– ABS, SRS, cylinder, VGT learn, clutch and ACC are included in the update. Dodge Diagnostics – AutoScan 2.0 (providing faster all-systems scan), read/erase codes, view and graph live data, and perform active tests for the following 2022-2023 RAM models: D2-3500 pickup, DD-Ram 3500 cab chassis, DF-Ram 3500 Cab Chassis10K, DJ-Ram 2500, DP-Ram 4500/5500, DS-Ram 1500, DT-Ram 1500, and DX-Ram. The VF (ProMaster) (2022-2023) and VM (ProMaster City) (2022) also received updates to their diagnostic coverage. Ford Diagnostics – AutoScan 2.0 (providing faster all-systems scan), system topology, read/erase codes, view and graph live data, and perform active test for Blue Bird C-Class Vision (2012 through 2020), E-Series (2023), Explorer (2023), F-150 (2022-2023), F-650/F-750 (2023), Ranger (2022), Tourneo Connect (2002 through 2009) and Transit (2022). Services – Adds ABS, SRS, BMS, brake bleed, DPF regen, EPB, SAS, throttle body, TPMS relearn and WIN DR ROOF for Escape (2020-2022), Explorer (2020-2022), F-150 (2021-2022), F-Series Super Duty (2020-2022), Ranger (2019-2022), Transit (2019-2022) and Transit Connect (2019-2022). GMC Diagnostics – Read/erase codes, view and graph live data, and perform active tests for Canyon (2022), Yukon (2022), Yukon XL (2022), Savana (2022), Hummer (2022) and Acadia (2023). Services – Adds seven service functions: ABS, SRS, cylinder, VGT learn, clutch, HV battery and ACC for the vehicles listed above. Hyundai Diagnostics – Read/erase codes, view live data and ECU information, perform active test and special functions for the Santa Fe (CM), Santa Fe (DM) and Santa Fe (SM). Systems supported include engine, transmission, ABS, ESP, SRS, BCM, smart key, EPB, 4WD, A/C and EPS. Toyota Diagnostics – AutoScan 2.0 (providing faster all-systems scan), read/erase codes, view and graph live data, and perform active test for 2023 Tundra, and Tundra HEV Services – Adds functions including ABS, SRS, automatic start/stop, clutch, EGR, VGT learn, VIN and A/F setting, manual oil reset, manual throttle matching and manual brake bleed on vehicles up to 2023. Software updates are free for the first year after tablet activation. Total Care Program subscriptions, which include one year of software updates and limited hardware warranty, can be purchased from an authorized Autel dealer or directly through the tablet. Autel introduced the MaxiSYS MS909CV more than two years ago. The advanced commercial-vehicle diagnostic tablet is compatible with more than 80 U.S., Asian and European light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicle brands, according to the company. Autel added coverage for construction and agriculture vehicles in late December 2022, including coverage for Caterpillar- and Cummins-engine vehicles. The 9.7-inch wireless tablet performs extensive vehicle diagnostics, including the ability to read/erase codes (active and inactive codes), view and graph live data and perform active tests as well as special functions. The tablet offers an extensive service menu and includes ADAS-calibration software for multiple vehicle classes. The included MaxiBAS B200 battery, starting and charging system tester and alligator clamps, and multimeter and amp clamp, enable extensive analysis. Visit Autel.com to learn more about Autel’s commercial vehicle diagnostic solutions. The post Autel Announces Software Release for MaxiSYS 909CV appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

July is Right to Repair Awareness month, and the Auto Care Association’s Marketing and Communications Committee is calling on the auto care industry to take action. In the wake of NHTSA’s recent attempt to prevent automakers from complying with the Massachusetts data-access law, Auto Care is urging industrywide participation in spreading awareness about the importance of preserving Americans’ right to repair their vehicles and passing the REPAIR Act at the federal level. “There are more than 4 million individuals that make up the American auto care industry and its time we start putting that number to work,” said Bill Hanvey, president and CEO of the Auto Care Association. “Rights, oftentimes, need to be fought for – which is why it is imperative that the latest actions taken to thwart the will of the people in Massachusetts be a wake-up call to our industry that we are going to have to bring everything we’ve got into this fight for the future of our industry. We’ve made taking action easier than ever and I hope everyone will lend their voice in this Right to Repair fight.” The Auto Care Association is providing six ways for aftermarket professionals and their customers to take action during Right to Repair Awareness Month. Send an automatic letter to your local congressperson telling them to support the REPAIR Act. Download Right to Repair promotional materials at autocare.org/r2rtoolkit to conduct a company awareness campaign on Right to Repair. Host your congressperson at your place of business. The association has a complete program that handles the contacts, the logistics and the talking points. Learn how to get started with the association’s Advocacy 101 toolkit. Share your support for Right to Repair throughout the month of July and what it means to you on social using the hashtag #righttorepair. The Auto Care Association has created a media kit with downloadable and editable graphics. Be an ambassador within your organization. Spread the word about Right to Repair Awareness Month with your supervisor. Ask your HR department to send this company-wide and use resources from the association’s media kit to educate your company and encourage your employees or colleagues to also take 30 seconds to send a pre-populated letter to their local legislator via the association’s Action Center. Continue your engagement by participating in the 2023 Auto Care Association Legislative Summit, taking place on Sept. 21 in Washington, D.C. Join the association and hundreds of aftermarket industry professionals in Washington for a day packed with meetings between you and your local congressional representatives so they can hear directly from you about our industry’s need to access vehicle data. The association will provide the talking points and the meeting schedule Additional resources, including full briefs on Right to Repair can be found on the Auto Care Association website for both the state and national levels. The post July Is Right to Repair Awareness Month appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Second-quarter U.S. sales of new cars and trucks will post a year-over-year increase, according to an Edmunds forecast. The firm is forecasting second-quarter sales of more than 4 million new cars and trucks. That’s up 16.1% compared to second-quarter 2022 and up 13.8% compared to first-quarter 2023, according to Edmunds. “If you look at Q2 in the aggregate, new-vehicle sales appeared to settle into a stable groove, which is a nice departure from the tumult that the industry has witnessed over the last few years,” said Ivan Drury, Edmunds’ director of insights. “More consumers returned to the market with older trade-ins, which indicates that pent-up demand helped buoy sales. But digging a bit deeper into the data, June tells a slightly conflicting story. After five consecutive months of increasing discounts and vehicles sitting on dealer lots for longer periods of time, June shows that those trends are stalling a bit.” Edmunds data reveals that the average age of vehicles traded in toward new-car purchases increased in Q2 2023, climbing to 5.6 years, compared to 5.2 years in Q2 2022 and 6.1 years for Q2 2019. Edmunds analysts note that inventory also has continued to slowly improve but isn’t close to returning to pre-pandemic levels – which is keeping prices elevated. “This road to recovery for the industry has been a winding one,” Drury explained. “With many automakers committing to better aligning production and demand, we might be on the cusp of seeing what a new normal sales pace looks like compared to the pre-pandemic years, when bloated inventories and deep discounts shaped the industry. Automakers and dealers are well-prepared to pivot amid shifting market dynamics, but this isn’t the best news for consumers hoping for more generous deals heading into the Fourth of July weekend. A return of summer sales banners, waving inflatables and tent events are more likely to be an exercise in advertising over the next few months than desperation to move the metal.” Edmunds analysts advise consumers to approach car shopping with a pragmatic mindset even if they encounter sales messaging or promotions this summer, because interest rates are expected to stay elevated and discounts likely will be limited. “If holding off on a car purchase is no longer possible this summer, it’s time to seriously evaluate your list of must-haves versus nice-to-haves,” said Drury. “Are you really planning on using that third row? Do you really need those extra bells and whistles? Because any of those upgrades are likely going to cost you far more than you might expect.” The post Pent-Up Demand Expected to Buoy US New-Vehicle Sales in Q2 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEYLE is expanding its product range to include the two-component brake discs for common BMW and Mercedes models. The new brake discs “offer customers the usual OE qualities such as accurate fit, low offset, reduced weight and the associated fuel savings and decrease in CO2. At the same time, the new brake discs boast high performance, driving comfort and sophisticated design, as is typical of the MEYLE PD line,” the company said. Thanks to its new products, MEYLE is expanding into the aftermarket for brakes with solutions in areas previously reserved for vehicle manufacturers with their original parts. Seven new references for the two-component MEYLE PD brake discs are available for the BMW models 3 to 8 Series X3 to X5 and Z4; and for Mercedes C-Class and E-Class models. The brake discs feature an aluminum or stamped-steel hat riveted to the cast-iron friction ring. Due to the high-quality surface coating, the ECE-R90-certified brake discs do not require degreasing, thus ensuring long-lasting protection against corrosion, according to MEYLE. A higher percentage of carbon makes the two-component brake discs exceptionally resistant to heat distortion even in cases of higher thermal stress – for example, on steep mountain descents – for extended driving comfort without vibrations, according to the company. To ensure efficient installation at the workshop, 99% of the brake discs are equipped with a fixing screw. The post MEYLE Adds 2-Component Brake Discs for BMW, Mercedes Models appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers will hold its annual MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) Awards during AAPEX in Las Vegas. MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers will present two awards – an Individual Award and a Company Award – to the winners on Nov. 1. The awards were created to recognize the importance of DEI in the automotive and commercial-vehicle aftermarket and to celebrate those individuals and organizations who champion the spirit of DEI in their organizations and communities. Award winners will be selected from submissions made to MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers. For Individual Award submissions, nominees should be influential leaders in the aftermarket who support, advance and/or embody the core values of DEI. Company Award nominees will be automotive and commercial-vehicle aftermarket organizations that have made achievements to advance DEI in the industry. Full nominee criteria and submission form can be found here. “MEMA is dedicated to championing and advocating for a respectful, diverse, and collaborative community, and recognizing those within the industry that support that dedication,” said April Buford, executive director of DEI at MEMA. “The MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers DEI Awards will shine the light on one individual and one organization that are paving the way for diversity, equity, and inclusion in the automotive aftermarket.” Applications for this year’s DEI Awards are due by Aug. 31. The post MEMA Aftermarket Suppliers to Present DEI Awards at AAPEX appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

To remind automotive technicians and service facilities that they must keep their TPMS-tool software updated regularly, a group of TPMS tool and sensor manufacturers, along with the Tire Industry Association (TIA), has launched a national public-service campaign called “Update Your TPMS Tools!” The Coalition of TPMS Manufacturers, including ATEQ, Bartec, Continental and Schrader, along with the TIA, has come together to tackle the challenge faced by technicians who have not kept their TPMS-tool software up to date. Having up-to-date software is particularly essential with the introduction of the latest generation of TPMS sensors. By updating their TPMS-tool software, technicians can prevent TPMS service issues and avoid unnecessary delays, ultimately delivering improved customer service. The launch of the “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign coincides with National Tire Safety Week, an annual consumer-awareness initiative of the U.S. Tire Manufacturers Association aimed at educating motorists about tire care, safety and awareness as essential parts of road safety. “TPMS tool manufacturers are routinely releasing software updates throughout the year,” said Shawn Pease, director of automotive tire service at the Tire Industry Association. Many factors can initiate a software change, such as new sensor technologies, vehicle-model introductions or vehicle recalls. Keeping the TPMS-tool software up to date helps ensure faster, more successful TPMS service with fewer comebacks.” According to recent surveys, up to 35% of technicians have not updated their TPMS-tool software in the last year. When working with the newest generation of TPMS sensors, technicians need the latest generation of TPMS-tool software, the coalition says. Without it, they cannot perform TPMS service successfully. In addition to alerting shops and technicians about the need to register their tool and keep its software updated, the campaign is stressing the need to always perform a sensor relearn when rotating tires or performing TPMS service. Failing to perform the relearn is one of the most common reasons for TPMS-service comebacks. Up to 20% of technicians surveyed don’t regularly perform the relearn when doing tire service, according to the coalition. The “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign website offers links to software-update downloads for many of the most popular TPMS tools. Technicians also can check with their tool manufacturer’s website to find links for TPMS-tool software updates. By engaging technicians and service facilities in the “Update Your TPMS Tools!” campaign, TPMS manufacturers and the TIA seek to raise awareness about the crucial role of TPMS-tool software updates in delivering exceptional TPMS service. Technicians are encouraged to prioritize updating their tools regularly, ensuring they can provide efficient, reliable and seamless TPMS service to their valued customers. The post TPMS Manufacturers Urge Technicians to Update Tool Software appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

DealerShop Inc. and Resilience Capital Partners, a Cleveland-based private-equity firm, announced today that it has acquired Jobbers Automotive. Jobbers Automotive is a full-service supplier of automotive paint, janitorial supplies, body shop equipment, bulk oil and WeatherTech products serving automotive dealerships and collision centers in Ohio. The acquisition will expand DealerShop’s national footprint and product offering for franchised new-vehicle dealerships and independent service centers in North America. “Jobbers Automotive has a long-standing reputation for providing exceptional service and high-quality products to the Ohio market for over 70 years,” said Bill Gryzenia, president and CEO of DealerShop. “We are delighted to have the talented and experienced Jobbers Automotive team join the DealerShop family of companies. The acquisition will enable us to provide our customers with a broader range of products and services and leverage the synergies from the consolidated footprint to drive growth and enhance value.” DealerShop is a part of Leader Auto Resources family of companies, the largest sourcing partner for franchised new-vehicle dealerships in North America. “I am thrilled that Jobbers Automotive is joining forces with DealerShop to provide even greater value to our customers and opportunities for our employees,” Jobbers Automotive CEO John Gemperline said. “This acquisition marks a new chapter in our company’s growth, and I am excited to see what we can achieve together as a team.” “We are all very excited about this next chapter of growth for DealerShop,” said Bassem Mansour, CEO of Resilience Capital Partners. “Strategic geographic expansion has been one of our key priorities and we look forward to continuing our robust growth trajectory.” The post DealerShop Acquires Jobbers Automotive appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

GB Remanufacturing announced its 2023 spring new-product release. The release includes gasoline and diesel part numbers and further expands the company’s premium remanufactured fuel-injection program. “We are very excited to announce our 2023 spring new-product release,” said Joe Evert, director of engineering & operations at GB Remanufacturing commented. “The release includes 25 part numbers that have been meticulously researched, developed and tested to the highest quality standards by our dedicated team at GB Reman. “With these part-number additions, we look forward to continuing to provide our customers with industry-leading quality, coverage and value.” GB Remanufacturing’s gasoline release includes both gasoline direct injectors (GDI) and multi-port fuel injectors (MPFI) and adds 24 part numbers to its comprehensive remanufactured gasoline fuel-injection program. All GDI injectors include pre-installed combustion and fuel inlet seals and the necessary hardware to ensure a complete and trouble-free installation, according to the company. GB Reman’s complete line of fuel injectors are remanufactured in the United States, tested to OEM specifications and backed by GB Reman’s 24-month unlimited mileage warranty. GB Reman also offers a comprehensive line of fuel-injection seal kits that include seals and components previously only offered at the dealer. GB Reman seal kits include all the necessary components to reseal the injector and include hard-to-find spacers, O-rings and combustion seals for GDI injectors. Diesel Fuel Injectors Within its diesel fuel-injection program, GB Reman has expanded its coverage for the RAM 6.7-liter Cummins cab and chassis with the release of a new premium remanufactured diesel-fuel injector. The premium fuel injector for the 2013-2018 RAM 6.7-liter cab and chassis features 100% nozzle and solenoid replacement. All control valves are independently tested and replaced as required. GB Reman’s premium diesel fuel injectors are always remanufactured using OE-quality components. Each unit is 100% flow-tested at multiple operating conditions at full-rated pressure to ensure it meets or exceeds OE specifications, according to the company. For more information, download the spring new-product announcement. The post GB Remanufacturing Adds Gasoline, Diesel Fuel Injectors appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

WIX Filters announced the “Win with WIX” promotion, which is designed to incentivize professional installers to switch from their current filter brands to premium WIX-branded filters, while encouraging DIFM consumers to choose premium service options. Installer customers who switch to WIX-brand filters and place a qualifying opening order for $350 or more during the promotional period will automatically be registered in the “Win with WIX” sweepstakes. In addition, all participating customers will receive a point-of-sale kit to display in their service centers that includes a WIX-branded clock, bay banner and other point-of-sale materials designed to help educate customers about the benefits of using premium WIX filters. The sweepstakes features a VIP fan experience weekend for two installer winners, which will be selected by random drawing. Each winner and a guest will have VIP-suite seating at the Bank of America ROVAL 400 NASCAR Series Cup race at Charlotte Motor Speedway this October. Winners also will receive an exclusive tour of the Hendrick Motorsports campus, the Hendrick Museum and the main WIX manufacturing facility in Gastonia. “We are very excited about the ‘Win with WIX’ installer promotion,” said Tina Davis, senior marketing manager – WIX Global and US. “The message conveyed by the point-of-sale materials to DIFM consumers is straightforward and to the point by calling out the important benefits of using superior filtration products. And installers will reap the rewards of expanding premium services in their shops.” The “Win with WIX” promotion runs from June 27 to Aug. 25, 2023. No purchase is necessary to enter. For complete sweepstakes rules and regulations, visit wixfilters.com/Promotions. The post WIX Filters Launches ‘Win with WIX’ Campaign appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

If there ever was an auto part that could sell itself, this could be it. People put up with broken windows, loud exhaust, rusty body panels, oil leaks, broken air conditioning and a plethora of other problems. But, take away the windshield wipers and they’re beating a path to the closest auto parts store. Luckily, there are only a few options, and you can quickly point them in the right direction. But, before we get to that, we’ll address the question of diagnosis. Many people may ask: Do you think it’s the motor or the switch? Honestly, you can’t give them the answer without performing a professional diagnosis, which is not what you’re there for. That takes time and a wiring schematic, but there are a few factors in your favor. There’s a lot you can tell by just looking and listening, even if you can’t see the wiper motor or transmission, which often is hidden in the cowl. When you turn on the wiper switch, do you hear the motor? You also can hear it when it changes speed, so this is an initial way to eliminate the basics of the wiring and switch. If the motor runs but nothing happens, you likely have a linkage that has fallen off due to a worn bushing. In some cases, the bushings are available separately, which becomes a less expensive repair. But, it takes additional time to remove the linkages and install new bushings. This is a common repair and perfectly acceptable, but there also can be a downside to it. In some cases, the linkages or ball studs where the bushings attach can be worn, and while they may seem like they install OK, they can fall off after short use. This usually only ends up with a frustrated customer, so if a complete assembled unit is available with motor, transmission and linkages, it’s a good idea to recommend this option. Let them know the individual bushings are available, but suggest the complete unit. This way, if they go with bushings and they don’t last, you can’t be to blame. Wiper motors are far more advanced than they used to be, with built-in computer circuit boards and electronics. This is another common source of problems, often causing erratic or inoperative wipers, but again, you only can say what you know is common and recommend a professional diagnosis. If a wiper motor gets stuck, it can cause the fuse to blow, and it’s not that uncommon – especially in areas that see a lot of ice and snow. Also keep in mind that some wiper arms can loosen where they connect at the wiper shaft. Everything sounds like it’s working, but nothing happens. In these cases, the wiper arms often need to be replaced because material in the arms has been stripped off by the splines on the wiper shaft. Upselling Opportunities Luckily, problems with wiper motor and linkage usually are obvious, and overall, they’re easy to replace. It’s a job most people are willing to tackle. The opportunity is with the upsells you can offer. Wiper arms are a good one. Even if they’re not the cause of the problem, the spring tension in the wiper arm keeps the blade seated against the windshield. These springs can weaken over time, affecting the performance of the wipers, especially at higher speeds where the wind can lift the blade. Also important to look at is the pivot point of the arms. These are often rusty and worn, and this too will affect the ability of the arm to keep the blade properly seated against the glass. If the wiper motor has failed, it’s seen plenty of use and the wiper arms probably have seen better days. Wiper blades are an easy upsell, and the next thing that comes to mind with wipers are washers. Since they’re focused on the system overall, do they need washer fluid? Are their washers working? Maybe they need a new washer pump or hose. Some washer hoses are located in the cowl area, and when you’re already in there, now’s the time to do it. Another recommendation you can make is glass cleaner. New wiper blades work better and last longer on a clean windshield. It’s also good to mention checking the cowl drains. They’re often plugged up, and while there are no direct sales here, it’s nice to point out. Now that you have someone in wiper mode, what about that rear wiper? At a minimum, I bet it needs a blade and arm too. The post Wiper Motors and Linkages appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Maxxis’s sponsored athletes took ownership of the Big House, continuing the company’s dominance of AMSOIL Championship Off-Road racing. Jimmy Henderson earned a career-first Pro 4 win at Round 3 and then went on to take first place again the next day, and Trey Gibbs took the Pro Lite victory on Sunday. Other Maxxis athletes also turned in great results at AMSOIL Championship Off-Road Rounds 3 and 4, held June 24-25 in Crandon, Wisconsin. Henderson’s determination turned Round 4 into a real barn-burner. After leading for most of the race, he was passed by another athlete, but he stayed close to the front car and was awarded first place after a review by race officials. Henderson rode Maxxis RAZR AT tires to victory. “We have been close in years past with second- and third-place finishes, but now with the Maxxis advantage, we have our first Pro4 win,” he said. “The durability and grip created space for us to place the truck back on the first-place podium in Round 4.” Henderson’s fellow Maxxis athlete Adrian Cenni, who is having an outstanding season so far, took second place at Round 4. Gibbs, now in his first year as a Maxxis athlete, won Sunday’s Pro Lite race after taking second place the day before. Brody Eggleston also made the podium, taking third place in the class at Round 4. Maxxis’ athletes primarily rode the RAZR AT and Bravo AT-771 in Pro Lite at Crandon. Also riding RAZR AT tires was veteran Maxxis athlete Mickey Thomas. Thomas was in the Pro 2 top three at both rounds, taking third place Saturday and second place Sunday. Trey Eggleston was on the Pro Stock SxS podium in third place Saturday. Most Maxxis SxS athletes chose the Maxxis Liberty or the Maxxis Ceros for the weekend’s racing; Maxxis-sponsored athletes have won championships on both tires. Nick Byng powered his way to the Super Stock Truck podium, taking second place at Round 4, and Maxxis driver Dylan Parsons made the Pro Spec top five. AMSOIL Championship Off-Road Rounds 5 and 6 are scheduled for July 14-15 in Elk River, Minnesota. The post Maxxis-Sponsored Athletes Win Big at AMSOIL Championship appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

New Rislone DPF Clean diesel DPF, exhaust & emissions systems cleaner cleans the fuel, exhaust and emissions systems of diesel vehicles to restore power and performance, reduce regeneration cycles, extend diesel-particulate-filter (DPF) life, save fuel and turn off “Check Engine” lights, according to the company. It unclogs blocked DPFs and reduces the need for frequent highway driving to accelerate regeneration, making it an ideal solution for diesel cars, SUVs and trucks that are driven regularly at low speeds for short durations, Rislone adds. Rislone’s unique formula features high-performing detergents and heavy-duty cleaning solvents to scrub away contaminants, soot, carbon buildup and oily residue from the fuel injectors, combustion chambers, turbo, EGR, diesel oxidation catalyst (DOC) and other components. Plus, its exclusive Diesel Regen Medic+is an active DPF regeneration accelerator and cleaning fuel catalyst that is guaranteed to clear a blocked DPF, according to the company. “Because repairing an obstructed DPF or damaged emissions system costs thousands of dollars, customers have been asking us for an affordable solution,” said Clay Parks, vice president of development for Rislone. “DPF Clean is the most potent diesel product we’ve ever developed. Not only will it clear clogged DPFs, but regular use will also prevent excessive exhaust regeneration and help maintain optimal power, performance, and efficiency.” DPF Clean is easy to install directly into the fuel tank with no special tools required. Cars, SUVs and pickup trucks use one bottle. Larger vehicles may require a higher dosage. The bottle is designed to work in all fuel tanks, including those with misfuelling devices. DPF Clean delivers the same benefits for diesel vehicles as Rislone’s CAT Complete fuel, exhaust and emissions system cleaner does for gasoline-powered vehicles. It will clear OBD II PID codes P242F, P2002, P2459, turn off the “Check Engine” light and/or clean a blocked DPF, enabling the vehicle to pass emissions/smog tests. Rislone offers a money-back guarantee. Visit rislone.com/refunds for details. DPF Clean diesel DPF, exhaust & emissions system cleaner (U.S. P/N 4744) is proven effective in all diesel and biodiesel fuels, including ULSD, according to the company. It can be used in direct-injected, common rail, turbo direct-injected and turbocharged engines. It was specifically designed for vehicles equipped with DOC catalytic converters, DPFs, selective catalytic-reduction (SCR) devices or diesel-exhaust-fluid (DEF) systems and will not void the manufacturer’s new vehicle warranty. Like all Rislone products, DPF Clean diesel DPF, exhaust & emissions system cleaner is made in the United States. The post Rislone Introduces DPF Clean for Diesel Engines appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MAHLE Aftermarket announced Troy C. of Florida as the winner of the first segment of the “Powered by MAHLE” Engine Giveaway. Troy has been awarded a remanufactured Chevrolet LS3 engine built by Tri Star Engines and Transmissions of Baldwin, Wisconsin, featuring all applicable premium MAHLE components. The next segment of the “Powered by MAHLE” sweepstakes will begin on July 1, for the chance to win a vintage Chevrolet small-block engine (1967 to 2002) built by Baldwin Racing Engines of Friedheim, Missouri. “We’re pleased to see such a great response from customers and fans from around the country, and we’re equally pleased to be able to award one of those participants with a Chevrolet LS engine,” said Jon Douglas, president, MAHLE Aftermarket North America. For the latest “Powered by MAHLE” Engine Giveaway updates, including exclusive details on the remaining three segments of the program and how to enter, visit MAHLE USA Facebook and Instagram social media pages or website. The three remaining engine-giveaway segments in this four-part promotion will take place in the months of July, August and October. Non-winning entries for a segment will roll into the subsequent entry segments, but participants are encouraged to enter the sweepstakes on both Facebook and Instagram with a unique photo for each entry segment. In addition to the engine, winners will be provided a one-night hotel stay and entry to the Performance Racing Industry show in Indianapolis in December, along with the opportunity to have dinner with “Team MAHLE” – the likes of which may include members of Kalitta Motorsports, John Force Racing, Tony Stewart Racing and others. For more information about MAHLE Aftermarket and its brands, visit the MAHLE Aftermarket website, or contact your local sales representative. The post MAHLE Aftermarket Names First Winner of Engine Giveaway appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Here’s the scenario: A customer comes into your store looking for an alternator for their vehicle. You look up the year, make and model and you see an application note on the screen. It tells you to ask the customer whether or not the vehicle is equipped with stop/start technology. As with many of the technological advancements from the past decade or two, stop/start came about thanks to the need to meet ever-tightening emissions and fuel-economy standards. In the late 1990s to early 2000s, hybrid vehicles were on the rise. These vehicles could propel themselves purely on electric drive, then start the engine as needed based on driving conditions and driver input. The problem was that traditional starters weren’t up to the task. They cranked the engine over too slowly, and the process was rather jarring. So, reinforced starter motors and flexplates were designed to combat this issue. Over time, automakers started to include stop/start systems in more and more vehicles. This is largely due to the fact that it was a simple way for OEMs to reduce carbon emissions from their entire lineup, and they receive certain incentives (or avoid costly penalties) for accomplishing this goal. Engines today are far more fuel-efficient than those that came before them, but automakers still need to squeeze everything they can from every drop of fuel. Or, in this case, they’re trying to reduce how much fuel is wasted during everyday driving. In an urban environment, vehicles can end up sitting at idle up to 35% of the time. The energy from burning fuel at idle is wasted since the vehicle isn’t in motion, but the vehicle still is producing harmful emissions. With the ability to stop and start the engine as needed, automakers are able to reduce the carbon footprint of their entire lineup. To you and me, it might not seem like much can be gained by stop/start technology. But, when you think about the number of vehicles on the road today, you can see the benefit a bit more clearly. It’s estimated that stop/start systems can reduce CO2 emissions by up to 10%, and maybe slightly more depending on conditions. The engine stops whenever the vehicle comes to a stop, then restarts immediately as soon as the driver transitions from the brake pedal to the throttle. Most stop/start systems crank the engine over at a higher RPM when compared to the initial cranking speed. This helps to make the process less jarring and less noticeable to drivers and passengers alike. Is a Stop/Start Alternator Different? The short answer is yes, but how so varies from one automaker to the next. Many modern-day alternators will have some sort of integrated control module on board. However, a stop/start alternator may be responsible for starting the engine as well as recharging the battery. This unit is commonly referred to as a starter/alternator. A starter-alternator is used by the PCM to crank the engine via the belt drive. The belt may contain more teeth (the belt may be wider) due to the load and stress applied while cranking. Starter-alternators boast faster engine startup than traditional starters, and they can do it without making as much noise or vibration. The traditional starter will crank the engine for the initial startup, then the starter/alternator will handle all of the restarts until the next driving cycle. How long does a traditional alternator typically last? In most cases, one could expect an alternator to last for 90,000 to 120,000 miles, maybe more. A stop/start alternator should see a similar life expectancy. If the alternator fails within 10,000 to 20,000 miles, there might be another issue that’s causing the premature failure. This could include a bad battery; wiring issues (loose connections, corrosion, intermittent shorting, etc.); overload from non-factory electronics; and/or a faulty voltage regulator (though these days this is usually integrated into the alternator). Tips and Tricks Stop/start might not be very popular among consumers, but this technology has led to multiple innovations and changes across the industry. For example, electric air-conditioning compressors and water pumps have been developed so that they can operate while the engine is off. So, what should you tell your customer if they’re replacing a stop/start alternator? Try to make sure they’re repairing the problem – not just a symptom – and sell them the complete repair. If their vehicle has a starter/alternator, they should be inspecting the condition of the entire belt drive. This includes the pulleys, the belt and especially the tensioner. If the belt isn’t tensioned properly, they could experience a number of symptoms, including noises, improper charging voltage, intermittent cranking issues and more. Don’t forget about the battery and cables! Always replace the battery with one that’s comparable to the OE-specified unit. The main battery typically is either an absorbent glass mat (AGM) or an enhanced flooded battery (EFB). These batteries are more advanced, and better able to support the increased number of charging cycles and additional load placed on the system by the stop/start features. Clean all electrical connections and protect them if necessary to prevent future corrosion. As always, it’s best practice to reference the OEM service information whenever servicing the alternator on a stop/start vehicle. Always respect the OEM’s recommendations when it comes to specific tooling, torque specifications and tightening sequences. Whenever possible, connect a scan tool to the vehicle and look for fault codes. A scan tool that’s capable of bi-directional communication might be required to reset the battery-recognition or battery-life monitor. CM The post Stop/Start Alternators appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article