Counterman

Standard Motor Products (SMP) recently announced the addition of 434 new part numbers to its Standard, Standard Import and Blue Streak lines. The release spans 129 product categories and expands coverage for import and domestic applications through the 2022 model year by more than 500 million VIO. The company continues to broaden its fuel-injection offering with more than 50 new numbers represented by injectors, fuel-pressure regulators and fuel-pressure sensors. These new applications cover an additional 19 million vehicles on the road. Multiple new GDI (gasoline direct injection) part numbers for popular vehicles such as the Ford F-150 (2020-2018), Toyota Camry (2020-2018) and Toyota Highlander (2020-2019) are included in this recent release. Another highlight from the release is the increase in coverage of the company’s ADAS-related products by 46 million VIO. This includes blind-spot detection sensors, cruise-control distance sensors, lane-departure system cameras, steering-angle sensors, park-assist sensors and park-assist cameras. This release includes more than 200 sensors, switches, actuators and connectors as Standard continues to add to its coverage. “These latest additions display our commitment to providing our distribution partners and service technicians with the most extensive late-model coverage across multiple categories,” said John Herc, vice president engine management marketing, SMP. “SMP is devoted to delivering the very best-performing parts for the vehicles of today and tomorrow.” All new applications are listed in the e-catalog found at StandardBrand.com, and in electronic-catalog providers. The post Standard Motor Products Releases 434 New Part Numbers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lectron announced that it has entered a retail partnership with AutoZone in an effort to make EV charging more accessible to consumers. AutoZone now carries a wide selection of Lectron products on its website, including chargers, charging stations and adapters. A full list of products can be found here. The move by AutoZone makes Lectron its most widely available EV-charging provider. “Our goal has always been to make EV charging easier and more accessible by addressing critical concerns, such as range anxiety and compatibility issues,” said Christopher Maiwald, founder and CEO of Lectron. “Our success has been in identifying these pain points and providing practical and affordable solutions for EV drivers. We are excited about making our EV products available to AutoZone’s loyal customers.” Lectron products now can be found at EV-Lectron.com and AutoZone.com, as well as Amazon, Walmart, The Home Depot, Lowe’s, Best Buy, Target and other major retailers. The post AutoZone Carrying Lectron EV Chargers On Website appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

General Motors recognized First Brands Group as a 2021 Supplier of the Year. GM celebrated honorees at its 30th-annual Supplier of the Year awards ceremony in Phoenix earlier this week. GM’s Supplier of the Year award recognizes global suppliers that distinguish themselves by exceeding GM’s requirements, in turn providing GM customers with innovative technologies and among the highest quality in the automotive industry. This year, GM recognized 134 suppliers from 16 countries with the Supplier of the Year distinction. This is the sixth time Brake Parts Inc has received the award and the fourth time Champion Laboratories has received the award; both are divisions of First Brands Group. “It’s always a tremendous honor to be recognized by GM as a Supplier of the Year and that’s especially the case this year, given the global supply chain challenges,” said Rich Fleming, chief commercial officer for First Brands Group. “We look forward to our continued collaboration with GM as we deliver on our commitment to supplying the highest quality products, advanced innovation and superior customer service.” “This year’s Supplier of the Year event was special not only because it’s the 30th anniversary of the program, but because it provided us with the opportunity to recognize our suppliers for persevering through one of the most challenging years the industry has ever faced,” said Shilpan Amin, GM vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain. “These top suppliers showed resilience and reinforced their commitment to pursuing sustainability and innovation. Through our strong relationships and collaboration, GM and our suppliers are poised to build a brighter future for generations to come.” A global cross-functional team selected the 2021 Supplier of the Year winners based on performance criteria in product purchasing, global purchasing and manufacturing services, customer care and aftersales and logistics. The post General Motors Names First Brands A 2021 Supplier Of The Year appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Carter has introduced four new parts to its popular line of fuel-pump-module assemblies, featuring CleanScreen technology and OE-matched connections. The new SKUs include module assemblies with part numbers P77200M and P77248M, and diesel assemblies assigned to part numbers P77277 and STS330. The additional electrical and mechanical fuel-pump-module assembly SKUs are engineered to consistently meet the demanding requirements of both gasoline and diesel engines across many vehicles makes and models. “We engineer, manufacture and test in-house, enabling us to meet and exceed the consumers’ needs,” said Ryan Gernheuser, repair group director, product management/aftermarket engineering at First Brands Group. “Our capabilities enable us to innovate quickly while industry-leading quality controls.” Carter’s new fuel-pump-module assemblies cover several Volkswagen car and Ford Transit van models; the new universal electric fuel pump and fuel pump strainer are designed for the Ford Super Duty series. Carter’s full line of fuel-pump assemblies cover 95% of domestic and import VIO. They come with limited lifetime and 12-month warranties for select products to provide added peace of mind. For more information, visit carterengineered.com. The post Carter Expands Line Of Fuel-Pump Assemblies appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has expanded its line of vehicle camera systems. Continental’s new Platform AHD (analog high-definition) camera systems are designed to enhance the driver’s view and improve fleet efficiency. Built to support drivers when navigating complex situations such as tight warehouse aisles, busy constructions sites or crowded shipping facilities, these camera systems provide vehicle operators with the extended visibility they need to get a better view of their surroundings and make their operations safer, according to the company. Continental’s AHD camera systems feature 2-megapixel cameras with high image clarity and infrared lights for enhanced night vision. The camera line includes rear-view and front- and side-view cameras. The displays work with both CVBS and AHD camera inputs. Video can be stored in a DVR for future driver analysis and training. Offered with 7-inch and 10.1-inch AHD displays, the AHD camera systems can integrate seamlessly with Continental ultrasonic sensors to deliver back up detection that warns the operator of obstacles behind the vehicle. The cameras feature IP 67 enclosures that are waterproof and dust-tight. The systems are available with dual voltage (12-volt and 24-volt) and offered in different cables sizes. For more information, visit continentalaftermarket.com or contact [email protected]. The post Continental Introduces Analog High-Definition Camera Systems appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

PRT announced it has added complete strut assemblies for the 2019-2020 Nissan Altima. The launches apply to front right and front left positions and fit the Platinum, S, SL and SV trim levels, among others. With the product introductions, PRT has added new coverage for 275,000 vehicles in North America, according to the company. PRT is a brand of the ADD USA group, one of the largest exporters of complete strut assemblies in the world. PRT products are manufactured under the strictest OE quality processes required by the main automakers, according to the company. “As an OEM supplier, we are continually investing in research and development of new products,” said Bruno Bello, director of global category and marketing at PRT. “These first-to-market applications reinforce the commitment of PRT for the best quality, technology and innovative solutions to the aftermarket.” For more information, call 770-238-1611 or visit www.prtautoparts.com. The post PRT Adds Complete Struts For 2019-2020 Nissan Altima appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Like many other OEMs, the Stellantis family of Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep and RAM (CDJR) vehicles uses a variety of sales codes to identify major and minor options. Unfortunately, these sales codes aren’t as readily accessible to the independent technician or the aftermarket professional as the codes used by other manufacturers. The VIN decal found in the doorjamb of most modern CDJR vehicles only includes paint, interior trim, GVWR and tire information. Unlike GM and VW/Audi, there is no options tag in the glovebox or trunk area advertising these option codes. Breaking CDJR codes has traditionally required a call to your local dealer. Veteran parts specialists will remember the SBA, SBB or SBC options found in the steering category for many Mopar products from the ‘80s and ‘90s, and the difficulty in actually finding those codes without the assistance of their local dealer. Most of us have run across choices between 136- or 160-amp alternators, and many parts specialists have realized that modern CDJR paint codes almost always start with a “P.” In the past few years, there has been an increased use of “BRx” sales codes to identify CDJR brake packages in our aftermarket catalogs. In place of physical descriptions like “12-inch vented rotor” or “dual-piston caliper,” we’re left with a jumble of codes such as BR1, BRF, BRY, etc. This coincided with the 2014 formation of FCA (Fiat Chrysler Automobiles), the manufacturer of CDJR vehicles prior to its merger into Stellantis. Catalog information derived from FCA sources resulted in this proliferation of “BR” codes. To make things even more difficult, many of these codes appear across multiple CDJR platforms, and each code may translate to different specifications depending on the vehicle being catalogued. Using a variety of catalog descriptions, approximate measurements and OEM sales codes, the following information collects these descriptors into one location. Included here are many of the most common confusing applications, with some identifying characteristics that can be determined “in the field:” CHRYSLER 200, 2015-2017 BRF (13” front rotors) BR1 and BRG (12” front rotors) CHRYSLER Town & Country, DODGE Grand Caravan, 2015-2020 BRE (11.89” front rotor w/single-piston front caliper, 12” rear rotor) BR1, BR3, BRG (13” front rotor w/dual-piston caliper, 12.9” rear rotor) Chrysler 300, DODGE Challenger/Charger, 2015-present BR3 (12.6” rotors, vented front, solid rear) BR4 (Brembo four-piston fixed front caliper) BR5, BR6 (13.6” front rotor, 12.6” vented rear) BR7 (Brembo six-piston fixed front caliper) BR9 (14.5” front rotor, 13.75” vented rear, police package Charger only) Dodge Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee 2015-present BR2,BR3,BR6, BR8 (13.78” front rotor, 13” vented rear) BR4 (SRT with Brembo calipers) BRY (13” vented front rotor, 13” solid rear rotor) Jeep Cherokee, 2014-present BR1 (single-piston front caliper, 13” vented rear rotor) BR3 (dual-piston front caliper, 13” vented rear rotor) BR6, BRG (dual-piston front caliper, 12.6” solid rear rotor) BRF (single-piston front caliper, 11” solid rear rotor) Jeep Compass, 2017-present In 2017, the MK platform (“old body”) featured 11.57” front rotors, and either 10.3” or 11.9” rear rotors. The new MP platform Compass features 12” front rotors, and 10.95” rear rotors. Jeep Wrangler JK, 2018 (“old body”) BR6 (13” front rotor) BRW (11.9” front rotor) Jeep Wrangler JL, 2018-present BR2, BR6 (13” diameter, 1.1” thick front rotor, 13.46” solid rear rotor) BR3 (13” diameter, 1.1” thick front rotor, 13.78” vented rear rotor) BRY (13” diameter, 0 .945” thick front rotor, 13” solid rear rotor) RAM 1500, 2019-present The DS platform RAM 1500 “Classic” features the previous five-lug wheel, while the new-for-2019 DT platform RAM 1500 features six-lug wheels. When a customer comes to our counter, they’ve usually chosen us based on our reputation for providing convenient service and the correct parts. If we repeatedly fail to meet their expectations, or make a habit of telling them to look elsewhere for the information we need, eventually someone else will capture their business. In the case of these brake codes, your choices are to use all the resources at your disposal to figure out the correct parts, or send them to the local dealer so they can fetch the information that matches your electronic catalog. Once they leave your store, there’s a chance they won’t be back. The post Breaking Down Chrysler Sales Codes appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Lumileds has taken a major step in addressing a growing concern over air purity and respiratory illnesses brought on by the current pandemic. In response, Lumileds has created the new Philips GoPure GP5611 automotive air purifier, a powerful and innovative car air purifier that’s engineered to clean air quickly and efficiently in most vehicle interiors and help reduce the risk of airborne transmission of viruses and bacteria. “The new Philips GoPure GP5611 is so advanced that it can capture ultra-fine particles, including microbes, in just 10 minutes, and its convenient design makes it an easy fit in most vehicle cup holders,” said Aubry Baugh, Lumileds product marketing manager. The GoPure GP5611 features three layers of defense: a Philips SaniFilter Plus filter, a powerful UVC light and a HESAMax filtration cartridge. The Philips SaniFilter Plus filter has been tested at IUTA laboratory in Germany and proven to capture 99% of ultra-fine particles, including particles as small as 0.004 microns that can get deep into the lungs and may create serious health risks, according to the company. The filter captures bacteria and respiratory viruses as well as airborne allergens such as pollen, dust mites, mold spores and pet dander at a 99% efficiency. The Philips SaniFilter Plus filter features a special anti-microbial layer to inhibit the growth of microorganisms inside the device, including mold spores. UVC light damages the molecular bonds that hold DNA together, so it is highly effective at eliminating bacteria and viruses. For decades, UVC light has been used for sterilization in hospitals, transportation, factories and more. Now, it is being used to help clean the air inside cars. The Philips UVC lighting module inside of the GoPure GP5611 is designed to kill bacteria and viruses trapped in the filter by exposing them to ultraviolet light. The UVC LEDs used in the module were tested independently from the air purifier at KR Biotech Lab on Sars-CoV-2 (COVID-19-causing virus) by applying UV light directly onto the virus in a petri dish, effectively destroying 99% of the virus in five minutes, according to the company. In the GoPure GP5611, the UVC light acts on the particles captured by the filter. An air purifier does not treat or prevent COVID-19, and by itself, does not protect against exposure to the virus that causes COVID-19, but it can be part of a plan to help protect your family and yourself from exposure according to the US Environmental Agency (EPA). The UVC light is housed safely inside of the GoPure GP5611 unit, preventing exposure to the passengers. The UVC light is LED-based to provide exceptionally long service life. While some other air purifiers use UV units with mercury lamps and may emit harmful ozone into the vehicle, the GoPure GP5611 UVC LED technology is toxin-free and emits zero ozone, according to the company. The Philips HESAMax cartridge (High Efficiency Sorbent Agent) removes chemicals, harmful gases and unpleasant odors from the car, including formaldehyde, toluene and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). The cartridge contains two types of HESA material: white beads that draw formaldehyde from the air, break it down and safely lock it within the cartridge; and black carbon beads that absorb unpleasant smells. The Philips HESAMax cartridge absorbs up to 30X more chemicals than the “carbon bags” commonly used in many purification devices, according to the company. The patented HESAMax odor removal works even when the GoPure is off. Philips GoPure GP5611 is very low maintenance. Typically, the SaniFilter Plus filter only needs to be replaced about once a year and the UVC LED module does not need to be replaced at all during the lifetime of the device. The device plugs into any USB outlet and turns on and off automatically with the ignition so that drivers can focus on driving. For more information, email [email protected] or call 866-254-6989. The post Lumileds Introduces Philips GoPure Automotive Air Purifier appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Online ordering is a great way of marketing your products to both commercial and retail customers. It’s a convenient way for them to engage with your store and your merchandise on their own terms. For the customer, there are many advantages to using your online portals over calling or visiting your location. They don’t need to leave their shop or home, they don’t have to wait on hold and they don’t need to rely on your personnel to guide them to the correct parts, pricing and availability information. Convenience, Speed, Availability Online ordering attracts the sort of consumer who is in search of convenience, speed and availability. These are the people who don’t necessarily want to spend a lot of time in-store or on the telephone. This could be a commercial account that wants minimal interruptions to their workflow and needs parts found, quoted and delivered quickly. It also could be a retail DIY customer with very well-defined needs, shopping for a specific brand or price point, or simply researching a future purchase. For the store itself, online ordering may reduce the number of incoming calls or “drop-in” visits, and it may expose your store to new clientele who might not have otherwise purchased from you. You may consider fewer calls and visits as a negative outcome, but in reality, both of these outcomes can actually improve profitability. Existing customers who have embraced your online resources are still buying – they’re just buying differently. By placing their own orders remotely, they’re also giving your parts specialists an added opportunity to serve another customer (on the phone or in person), and to perform daily storekeeping tasks. A reduction in commercial phone traffic also allows your in-store personnel to spend additional time working on more complex parts requests, and helping close sales with those customers who require additional attention. There are drawbacks to online sales. Online shoppers don’t get your closely managed “in-store” experience, and they may receive less exposure to your other products, services and marketing. This has more impact on the retail trade, as commercial customers are most likely contacting you to fulfill immediate and specific needs, and are less interested in impulse items or the attractiveness of your plan-o-grams. For both types of customers, their “relationship” with your store might be put at risk if they don’t feel connected in a meaningful way. It’s important to use these online purchases as a gateway to building confidence and recognition for your store as a partner in vehicle repair and maintenance. Implied Commitment Offering your inventory online also represents an implied “commitment” to the customer. Online pricing and inventory availability must accurately reflect what’s actually on your shelves. Accurate inventory counts are crucial to any store operation, but some online sales also require an added element of scheduling. When an online platform allows for the customer to order non-stocked parts to be delivered from your DC or another store location, it creates an expectation of arriving at your store on schedule. The online portal has made the customer a promise that your store now must fulfill. Acknowledging or accepting any incoming order must be done promptly, and final processing or delivery of that order must be completed as promised. Keeping the customer informed in the event of any delay is even more crucial to online success, because of the “remote” nature of the transaction. It can be extremely frustrating to get a quote or place an order and then discover that the part is out of stock when you arrive to pick up the merchandise. This becomes even more of an inconvenience if the part has been ordered and pre-paid online. Many online-purchase platforms place a preauthorization hold on the purchaser’s credit/debit card. Depending on the card issuer’s policies, this “hold” may not drop from the account immediately. For some customers, this may prevent them from having enough money in their account to purchase the same part elsewhere until those funds are released. The repair can be delayed, and often, blame for the situation is assigned to you for “holding their money.” High-Maintenance Customers The final consideration when choosing to steer customers toward your online offerings is the customers themselves. We all have that customer who never seems to give us the correct application information, or even worse, insists that you send “both options” when a choice exists between two parts. This sort of customer is not the ideal audience for online ordering or “self-checkout,” as you may find yourself processing a large number of returns for unwanted or incorrectly ordered parts. It also will increase the number of “second deliveries” required to complete the job, and overstock for parts that are returned to the store. The post Online Ordering: Your Silent Staff appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Earlier this month, AutoZone reported stellar results for its fiscal 2022 second quarter. DIFM sales set the pace. For the quarter, which ended Feb. 12, AutoZone reported a 32.1% year-over-year increase in domestic commercial sales. The domestic DIFM sales total of $844 million was a second-quarter record for the company. Weekly domestic commercial sales per store were $13,500 – another second-quarter record – up from $10,500 in the fiscal 2021 second quarter. Overall, AutoZone’s fiscal 2022 second-quarter net sales were up nearly 16% to $3.4 billion. Domestic commercial sales accounted for 25% of that total – yet another company record – up from 21.9% of total net sales in the second quarter of FY 2021. Perhaps the most impressive stat: On a two-year basis, domestic commercial sales are up a whopping 46%. During the company’s March 1 conference call, AutoZone CEO Bill Rhodes noted that that the company doesn’t have good visibility into industry data that would quantify how much AutoZone has grown its DIFM market share in recent years. However, he acknowledged that “we are quite comfortable that we’re growing share exponentially” versus the overall aftermarket. On several occasions, Rhodes made a point to emphasize that AutoZone’s recent price cuts have not been the primary catalyst for its accelerated growth in DIFM sales. “They are an element, not the element of our growth,” Rhodes said. “About four years ago, we embarked on a new strategy in commercial, and we looked at all elements of our offerings. We changed the assortment methodology in every store in the United States. Every store has a different product assortment that leans further into the commercial business today than it did four years ago. “We also said, ‘How are we going to get significant increase in local-market availability? And we came up with this concept called a megahub store.” AutoZone’s megahub stores typically stock around 100,000 SKUs, “and drive tremendous sales lift inside the store box as well as serve as an expanded assortment source for other stores,” CFO Jamere Jackson explained during the call. As of the end of its fiscal second quarter, AutoZone had 64 megahub stores, and Jackson said the company plans to open 14 more megahub locations throughout the rest of its fiscal 2022. “The expansion of coverage and parts availability continues to deliver a meaningful sales lift to both our commercial and DIY business,” Jackson said. “And we are testing greater density of megahubs to drive even stronger sales results. What we’re learning is that not only are these assets performing well individually, but the fulfillment capability for the surrounding AutoZone stores gives our customers access to thousands of additional parts and lifts the entire network.” AutoZone executives have stated publicly that the goal is to establish at least 110 meghahub locations, but Rhodes said that number could end up being closer to 200. “One of the things about the mega hubs: Every time we measure them, they do better than our projections – period. Every single time,” Rhodes added. Regarding the DIFM sales growth, Rhodes also pointed to improvements in the effectiveness of AutoZone’s front-line sales personnel and delivery drivers, and technology upgrades that make AutoZone “easier to do business with.” “We’ve taken our sales force – which was relatively immature and, frankly, brand new a decade ago – and as they mature and develop tenure, they’re getting more professional and better at their sales techniques. “We’ve deployed the single-largest technology endeavor of the company’s history in the commercial business. We’ve enhanced how we interact with our customers digitally. We’ve also rolled out handheld devices to all stores and all drivers, so that when they’re picking the products, we make sure we have the right products, and when we deliver the products, we can understand delivery times. We’re driving our delivery times down about 15% so far, and that’s nowhere near our goal. So we’re improving our service on that front.” He also pointed to the Duralast battery brand, “which continues to become stronger and stronger across the board.” Regarding the pricing element of the company’s DIFM strategy, Rhodes noted that AutoZone traditionally has been “premium-priced” compared to its competitors, “because our service offering is “premium-priced.” “I’d like to address the subject of pricing, and if AutoZone’s pricing disciplines or philosophies have changed from past practices,” Rhodes said during his prepared remarks. “The short answer is a resounding ‘no.’ “While we initiated a retail pricing adjustment last year in Q1, and further adjusted some commercial pricing in quarters 2 through 4, these moves were done to be price-competitive, but with other channels – not with our direct competitors. Specifically, in the retail business, we reduced our premiums to mass, particularly on highly visible commodity products. “Regarding the more significant change in commercial. Our prices have always, always been meaningfully higher than our WD competitors, as our service level is superior. Our pricing changes over the last year or so have been to narrow – I emphasize narrow – but not eliminate that gap.” Rhodes asserted that AutoZone’s pricing adjustments have “narrowed that premium by roughly half.” “While this has created some consternation in the investment community, we think our results have shown that this was a prudent and productive decision,” Rhodes said. “We continue to see our industry as very rational when it comes to pricing strategies. And I want to be clear – crystal clear. I don’t want anyone to conclude that our growth in commercial is solely due to pricing.” The post Rhodes: Pricing Isn’t Only Driver Of AutoZone’s DIFM Growth appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental has launched a redesigned website for its REDI-Sensor multi-application TPMS-sensor program. The new website at REDI-Sensor.com, features a wide range of TPMS training and educational resources for professional technicians and shops. It also introduces and showcases the next generation of REDI-Sensor TPMS sensors, which can replace more than 290 different OE sensors and provide coverage for more than 150 million VIO with only four sensors. A key feature of the new REDI-Sensor site is the “Training Central” section, which houses a portfolio of training resources aimed at educating professional technicians on the latest TPMS knowledge and service techniques. The section includes signups for live webinars hosted by Continental’s own TIA-certified instructors and allows visitors to access previously held webinars on-demand. Upcoming Webinars Continental is hosting two upcoming live webinars on April 20 and April 27, which will focus on the new generation of REDI-Sensor TPMS sensors. The training webinars are open to all service pros and Training Central offers easy way to sign and participate at https://www.redi-sensor.com/trainingcentral/. In addition to webinars, the section features a video series on TPMS Tech Tips, service tips for professionals, a TPMS FAQ section and information on the complete REDI-Sensor multi-application TPMS line. The REDI-Sensor website provides an exceptional application lookup that makes it easier for technicians to quickly identify the right product for their TPMS needs. It uses a year/make/model search function to help determine the correct TPMS-sensor and service parts needed, while also providing the latest sensor installation and relearn instructions, service tips and how-to videos. A “Where to Buy” feature has been added to help shops find the best location to purchase the REDI-Sensor TPMS sensor and service parts they need. The site also features a section for drivers that includes some everyday FAQs on TPMS, information on the importance of TPMS for driving safety and a blog with articles on TPMS, tire service and safety tips. The site was built with a responsive-first design template, allowing it to be easily accessed and navigated on mobile devices as well as laptop and desktop computers. For more information visit: redi-sensor.com or contact [email protected]. The post Continental Retools REDI-Sensor Website To Deliver More Robust Education appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

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 February/March contest is the Toyota Tundra. The winner is Greg Rogers, inside sales and axle & suspension sales at Potter Webster Co. in Portland, Oregon. Now, let’s get to know the “Guess the Car” champion. CM: How long have you been working in the auto parts business? GR: I started in the auto parts business in 1976 and also have worked in engine remanufacturing and high-performance engine sales. I am currently in a heavy-duty truck parts distributor managing their axle and suspension sales to OEM semi-trailer manufacturers, but I still get calls for fleet-shop pickup parts and all the auto parts for our employees. CM: What do you like most about your job? GR: I like being able to custom-engineer something that hasn’t been done before. Doesn’t happen often, but it can be rewarding. CM: What’s the strangest question a customer has asked you? GR: I had a young woman once ask if I had any wiper blades to fit her Chevrolet Mustang. CM: What’s the coolest car you’ve ever owned or worked on? GR: I’ve spec’d valvetrains for NASCARs and for record-breaking dragsters. The most challenging project was converting an alcohol-burning, turbocharged Corvair to Weber side-draft carburetors and jetting them properly. CM: Do you have any interesting hobbies? What do you do for fun? GR: I am currently writing a trilogy screenplay about “The Adventures of Major Tom.” For fun, I have a killer stereo, and I like to barbeque. CM: What’s your dream car? GR: I have a 1986 Dodge Conquest TSI, but I think that I would rather have a 1972 Mach 1 Mustang. The post Meet The ‘Guess The Car’ Champ: Greg Rogers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Stage 8 has introduced locking header-bolt kits designed specifically for side-by-side recreational vehicles using 8-millimeter bolts. Off-roading in a side-by-side in remote locations is no time to experience equipment failure. Stage 8 is the only fastener company that can claim that its fasteners, including header bolt kits, have never failed, according to the company. The new header-bolt kits, SBS-101 and SBS-102, are available now for purchase. Part No. SBS-101 is an 18-piece kit, retailing for $38.40. It includes: Six M8 x 1.25 x 30 mm DHH (dual hex head) Grade 8 grooved Stage 8 locking boltsSix locking retainersSix clips Part No. SBS-102 is a 24-piece kit, retailing for $49.85. It includes: Eight M8 x 1.25 x 30 mm DHH (dual hex head) Grade 8 grooved Stage 8 locking boltsEight locking retainersEight clips “Stage 8 header-bolt kits are an excellent way to protect your investment and ensure rides are not interrupted with equipment failure,” the company said in a news release. “Easily removable, Stage 8 locking-bolt kits are the world’s standard for performance lockdown technology that absolutely eliminates loose bolts even under the most extreme use on- or off-road.” For more information about Stage 8 products, visit Stage8.com, email [email protected], or call (800) 843-7836. The post Stage 8 Introduces Locking Header-Bolt Kits For Side-By-Sides appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In celebration of its 50th anniversary, the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) has made available free downloadable communications materials and creative assets to help industry organizations take part in ASE’s yearlong celebration. Designed as a one-stop web portal, the online ASE toolkit gives repair shops, parts suppliers and industry organizations access to ASE marketing assets for use in their own communications. The web-based toolkit features a special 50th-anniversary section that includes logos, email and press-release templates, social media and infographics, plus posters, handouts and other digital assets. To view the ASE 50th-anniversary toolkit, visit https://asetoolkit.com/toolkit/50. For questions or additional information, email [email protected]. The post ASE Adds 50th-Anniversary Materials To Online Toolkit appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

First Brands Group has introduced new part numbers to its premium-quality Raybestos line in the categories of brake friction, rotors, calipers, master cylinders and brake cables. More than 100 new Raybestos part numbers are now available for domestic and international nameplate late-model and luxury vehicles, including 2020, 2021 and 2022 coverage for Buick, Ford, Honda, Hyundai, Jaguar, Jeep, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, Nissan, Ram, Scion and Toyota. The just-released parts include Raybestos Police brake-pad coverage for 2021 and 2022 Ford Explorer and Police Interceptor utility vehicles, as well as new coated-rotor numbers for popular 2022 truck, SUV and passenger-car applications, including Ford F-150, Nissan Sentra and Honda CR-V. “We are always proud to introduce new part numbers and this time is no exception,” said Kristin Grons, director of marketing, First Brands Group. “With the introduction of specialty brake pads for in-demand police vehicles, coated-rotor coverage for newer passenger vehicles, and a wide range of carry-up coverage, our customers will have the Raybestos parts they need for more late-model vehicle repairs.” The complete family of Raybestos brake products include disc pads and shoes, drums and rotors, master cylinders, wheel cylinders, calipers, hubs, hoses, and hardware. To learn more about new part numbers and their applications, customers should contact their First Brands Group representative. The post First Brands Adds Raybestos Coverage For Late-Model Vehicles appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

When I hear good and bad in the same sentence, I think of the classic Clint Eastwood movie, “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly.” This isn’t the Old West, but I can draw a perfect parallel between the title and the fight we sometimes have with alternators. When they’re good, they’re good. When they’re bad, they’re bad. So, what’s the ugly? That’s when they’re good, but we think they’re bad because there’s an electrical problem that prevents them from working properly. It gets even uglier when the problem is hard to find, and probably the ugliest when a good alternator is called bad. What an alternator does is simple, or at least we’ll keep it that way for now. It outputs direct current (DC) to power vehicle electrical systems and maintain and recharge the vehicle battery. An alternator is aptly named because it generates an alternating current (AC), which is, in turn, converted to DC. We can divide the alternator into two different systems: the mechanical and the electrical. On the electrical side, you have the components that are responsible for generating and managing the electrical current, which include the rotor, stator, regulator and rectifier. The rotor and stator are the main components that generate electricity, based on fundamental electromagnetic principals. The regulator is what controls the output of the alternator, and the rectifier is what converts AC to DC. The Good When an alternator is good, alternating current is being generated by the rotor and stator, the rectifier is converting it to direct current and the regulator is controlling the output. If a problem develops with one of these, the result is either no voltage, too much voltage or an AC-voltage output. Any of those are bad. If this seems too simple, it is on purpose. We can get much deeper into it, which will make it more difficult, but the way we do things today has changed the process of diagnosing the charging system. Things were different years ago. We used to take alternators apart. We’d check the windings of the rotor and stator. Then we’d check the diodes in the rectifier, and finally check the regulator. As a matter of fact, regulators used to be separate from the alternator and they were mechanical devices compared to solid-state electronics. We’d take everything apart, check it all, determine what was bad and replace only what was needed. We don’t do that anymore. Alternators have been self-contained for many years. Regulators are built in. If an alternator isn’t working, we replace it. That’s it. We don’t think about why, nor do we even toy with the idea of taking it apart. Just send me a new one. On the mechanical side, you have the bearings that support the rotor, and the pulley that’s driven by the belt. If the bearings are bad, they’re loose or noisy. Pulleys used to be fixed chunks of metal. Now we see overrunning alternator pulleys (OAP) or overrunning alternator decouplers (OAD). When these go bad, they’re often noisy, or they may not spin the alternator. The brushes in an alternator are another mechanical part of it. They’re made of conductive materials that physically contact and rub against the slip rings. This is how the electrical current from the regulator flows into the rotor. But we don’t replace brushes anymore, nor do we replace bearings. We don’t even think about taking the alternator apart. We just replace it. The pulleys are the only parts we may replace separately. The Ugly When an alternator needs replaced, the process usually isn’t too difficult, but that’s when it can get ugly. As counter professionals, you deal with technicians, and you deal with do-it-yourselfers. Either way, when they ask for an alternator, you’re hoping the diagnosis is correct. The last thing you want is an alternator return. You might ask a few questions to see if they’ve done some basic diagnosis, but you’re in a tough spot. You don’t want to show disrespect, but you don’t want the original coming back covered in grease, because they found the “real” problem after they replaced it and it didn’t fix the problem. Do DIYers make mistakes? You bet. Do professional technicians make mistakes? We sure do. It’s not always easy, and diagnosis can be difficult. Any time electrical diagnosis is involved, the potential for mistakes can be greater, and charging systems are no exception. One problem is that alternator failure isn’t uncommon, and if the charging-system indicator is illuminated, that’s likely the problem. It’s easy to see the warning light, and even maybe check battery voltage with the engine running. If the battery voltage is at or below 12.6 volts, the alternator must be bad, right? After all, we would normally see 13.5 to 14.5 volts. This is what I like to call a reactive diagnosis. We react based on what we know is common and think that what we initially see tells the story. Sure, it’s possible that the alternator may be bad, but only possible. A fact of electrical diagnosis is that the majority of all electrical problems are caused by higher-than-normal resistance – in other words, a poor connection. Diagnostic Tips How, as technicians do we keep from making this mistake? We have to remember that electrical systems are far more complicated than they have been for years, and they require correct system voltage in order for all of the computers and electronics to work properly. Battery condition is critical, and a weak battery can prevent an alternator from properly charging. It’s also not unheard of to get a vehicle in that has both a bad alternator and a bad battery. It does happen. When diagnosing charging systems, an important detail not to overlook is performing a voltage-drop test on the battery and alternator cables. It’s safe to say that higher than normal resistance is responsible for the good majority of misdiagnosis and comebacks. The traditional tools we use for battery and charging-system diagnosis are a digital battery tester, a multimeter, a load tester and an amp clamp. However, for modern charging-system diagnosis, a scan tool has become a must-have. Modern charging systems are no longer stand-alone systems, with the vehicle ECM playing a large part in their control and operation. A power-management system is a more accurate name than charging system, and it includes the alternator, battery and ECM. These systems have been developed to improve fuel economy, battery life and alternator operation, and not only do they monitor battery condition, but some systems also can estimate battery condition as well. They control and adjust charging output and they also can perform diagnostics and set diagnostic trouble codes. Good alternators can go bad, but if you’re faced with answering questions and giving advice to your customers at the counter, make sure they’re covering all the bases of diagnosis, so a good alternator doesn’t turn ugly. The post When Good Alternators Go Bad appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

FRAM announced that it has finalized a sponsorship agreement with Superstar Racing Experience (SRX) for the 2022 season. This is the second year that FRAM will participate in SRX as a sponsor. “We are excited to continue our relationship with FRAM in the 2022 season,” said Reid Mobley, chief revenue officer of SRX. “FRAM was an integral part of our season one success, and we look forward to seeing them in victory lane this season.” SRX kicks off its schedule June 18 in Pensacola, Florida. The 2022 season will feature six races at tracks across the United States: June 18 – Five Flags Speedway, Pensacola, FloridaJune 25 – South Boston Speedway, South Boston, VirginiaJuly 2 – Stafford Motor Speedway, Stafford Springs, ConnecticutJuly 9 – Nashville Fairgrounds, NashvilleJuly 16 – I-55 Raceway, Pevely, MissouriJuly 23 – Sharon Speedway, Hartford, Ohio The FRAM logo will be prominantly featured on Marco Andretti’s car as he competes against a star-studded lineup that includes: Tony Stewart, Tony Kanaan, Ryan Newman, Matt Kenseth, Hailie Deegan, Paul Tracy, Helio Castroneves, Bobby Labonte, Ernie Francis Jr. and Michael Waltrip. “It is very special to have FRAM on board with me this season for all six SRX races,” said Andretti, driver of the No. 98 car in SRX. “I am honored to carry their colors and hope to get them some wins.” “FRAM is excited to once again partner with SRX Racing,” said Patrick Reyes, marketing manager for FRAM. “Last year’s relationship was a great platform to relaunch the FRAM brand and we hope to see continued success for SRX and victories for FRAM on the track.” FRAM provides a full set of filtration products to keep contaminants under control in critical spaces. Oil flow, engine air filtration and clean cabin air can all be protected with FRAM filters. Stay up-to-date with FRAM on Facebook and Instagram, and follow SRX on Facebook and Instagram. Learn more about FRAM filtration products at fram.com. The post FRAM Renews Sponsorship With SRX Racing For 2022 Season appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Mevotech recently announced the expansion of its Supreme product line to include wheel-hub assemblies. According to the company, features include: Roll form lockdown design – to ensure bearing preload for reduced vibrationPremium seals – with a three-point or four-point seal designReinforced ABS sensor – enhanced wiring harness with integrated strain reliefsPremium lithium synthetic grease – resistant to wear, high temperature and extreme pressureIncreased flange thickness – with 20% more material to reduce flex while the hub is turningMaximized contact angle – for improved resistance to radial loadsOptimized axial play – to ensure negative clearance fully loaded, reducing vibrationPremium materials – featuring high-precision rolling elements encapsulated in a fiber reinforced cage Plus, there’s no wasting bay time and money sourcing the right mounting hardware or looking up torque specs. Supreme hubs come with “labor-saver” additions to make the professional technician’s job faster and easier, so all mounting hardware and precise torque specs are included in the box for a complete install, according to Mevotech. “As part of the Supreme Hubs launch, we are introducing 27 new upgraded SKUs for the most popular applications. They feature engineered enhancements based on key failure points to prevent costly comebacks and keep vehicles performing strongly,” said Richard Stothers, vice president engineering & research. Designed with application-specific upgrades, Mevotech Supreme parts are engineered to provide increased strength, durability and service life for high-usage passenger cars, CUVs, SUVs and fleet vehicles. Joining Supreme ball joints, control arms, tie-rod ends and stabilizer links, this fifth core product offering means the professional technician now can choose engineered steering, suspension and wheel-end replacement components for a complete repair solution, the company noted. For more information, visit the Mevotech website. The post Mevotech Adds Wheel Hubs To Supreme Product Line appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

When Brian Norko, senior vice president – commercial business operations, NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., interviewed for the management trainee program at Federal-Mogul, he says he “didn’t know anything about manufacturing and … wasn’t a car enthusiast.” That didn’t slow him down when it came to carving out an incredibly successful career in automotive. Now with roughly 35 years under his belt, Norko says he still lives by the guidance he was given by the mentors he had while just starting out. “Fortunately, I had an angel in Southfield, Michigan, who was keeping his eye out for me,” said Norko. “His name was Don Thorpe, God rest his soul. He was the national sales manager for the sales division that called on NAPA and every time I would come back to Southfield, he would always look me up and we’d have lunch or have dinner. He wanted me in the sales group. He got his wish and I went into to NAPA sales for Federal-Mogul. I spent some time there and then I went into heavy-duty sales, and then into distribution. Then, they brought me back to be in finance. So, the first eight years, I really got a good dose of being a management trainee in different functional areas from sales to distribution and finance.” Norko credits another important mentor in his career for helping him learn the key to being a successful sales professional. “Another strong mentor was Bob Show, God rest his soul as well,” said Norko. “Bob was the national sales manager of heavy-duty sales at Federal-Mogul and really taught [me] the foundation that I still use with my group. The first thing he said to me when I took the job up in Minnesota in heavy-duty sales was, ‘You know, Brian, I really don’t care about writing big orders here. The next three or four months, what I care about is you get to know your customers and establishing a very good relationship with your customers. When I come back up in four months, I’m going to talk to some people and see if they know you,’ and he did.” The experience Norko gained while working in a variety of roles in the Federal-Mogul management trainee program made him a firm believer in the value not only of relationships, but in having a wide variety of skills as an aftermarket executive. When speaking to students about potential career paths in the aftermarket, this is something Norko is passionate about. “When I speak to classes or I speak to students, the one thing they ask me is how can they find that type of job, and why is it important? And what I always come back to as I deal with this today at NGK is an organization can’t have all specialists. They can, but it may make the process of strategy or problem-solving a little bit more cumbersome or time-consuming than having maybe 30-40% of your population that has spent time in sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, finance, etc. By having that background, those people are able to help others understand who the customer is and, and maybe some of the problems or challenges they have with the organization. “I mentioned Bob Show earlier. Bob always said there’s really two functions of a company from his viewpoint. His two focuses of a company were to get a customer – which if you work for a company like NGK or a company that has a lot of strong brands and high market share, that’s pretty easy to do because people want your product. Sometimes the more difficult thing to do is to keep a customer,” Norko says. “When you’re trying to keep a customer and you have people working in your team who are just not sales people, but also come from the distribution side, the manufacturing side, the finance side, they’re able to bring solutions to help you keep that customer. So, I think it’s really important to have some generalists within your team and not all specialists. That’s a message I share here at NGK all the time as I try to get people to move around within the organization just to become stronger. And really it makes the career more interesting. I’ve loved my career for the last 30-plus years. I wouldn’t change it for anything with the experience that I had and and the people that I’ve met.” In this episode, Bill and Brian also dive into: 8:29 Mentors;10:45 Identify the need and provide the solution;12:10 The value of brands and quality products; 12:15 The value of strong brands in making life easier in sales;14:35 The technician shortage;20:30 AMN Drivetime’s NEW “Lightning Round” “AMN Drivetime” is sponsored by Litens. Watch the episode Listen to the podcast The post NGK’s Brian Norko On ‘AMN Drivetime’ (Video) appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

When Brian Norko, senior vice president – commercial business operations, NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., interviewed for the management trainee program at Federal-Mogul, he says he “didn’t know anything about manufacturing and … wasn’t a car enthusiast.” That didn’t slow him down when it came to carving out an incredibly successful career in automotive. Now with roughly 35 years under his belt, Norko says he still lives by the guidance he was given by the mentors he had while just starting out. “Fortunately, I had an angel in Southfield, Michigan, who was keeping his eye out for me,” said Norko. “His name was Don Thorpe, God rest his soul. He was the national sales manager for the sales division that called on NAPA and every time I would come back to Southfield, he would always look me up and we’d have lunch or have dinner. He wanted me in the sales group. He got his wish and I went into to NAPA sales for Federal-Mogul. I spent some time there and then I went into heavy-duty sales, and then into distribution. Then, they brought me back to be in finance. So, the first eight years, I really got a good dose of being a management trainee in different functional areas from sales to distribution and finance.” Norko credits another important mentor in his career for helping him learn the key to being a successful sales professional. “Another strong mentor was Bob Show, God rest his soul as well,” said Norko. “Bob was the national sales manager of heavy-duty sales at Federal-Mogul and really taught [me] the foundation that I still use with my group. The first thing he said to me when I took the job up in Minnesota in heavy-duty sales was, ‘You know, Brian, I really don’t care about writing big orders here. The next three or four months, what I care about is you get to know your customers and establishing a very good relationship with your customers. When I come back up in four months, I’m going to talk to some people and see if they know you,’ and he did.” The experience Norko gained while working in a variety of roles in the Federal-Mogul management trainee program made him a firm believer in the value not only of relationships, but in having a wide variety of skills as an aftermarket executive. When speaking to students about potential career paths in the aftermarket, this is something Norko is passionate about. “When I speak to classes or I speak to students, the one thing they ask me is how can they find that type of job, and why is it important? And what I always come back to as I deal with this today at NGK is an organization can’t have all specialists. They can, but it may make the process of strategy or problem-solving a little bit more cumbersome or time-consuming than having maybe 30-40% of your population that has spent time in sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, finance, etc. By having that background, those people are able to help others understand who the customer is and, and maybe some of the problems or challenges they have with the organization. “I mentioned Bob Show earlier. Bob always said there’s really two functions of a company from his viewpoint. His two focuses of a company were to get a customer – which if you work for a company like NGK or a company that has a lot of strong brands and high market share, that’s pretty easy to do because people want your product. Sometimes the more difficult thing to do is to keep a customer,” Norko says. “When you’re trying to keep a customer and you have people working in your team who are just not sales people, but also come from the distribution side, the manufacturing side, the finance side, they’re able to bring solutions to help you keep that customer. So, I think it’s really important to have some generalists within your team and not all specialists. That’s a message I share here at NGK all the time as I try to get people to move around within the organization just to become stronger. And really it makes the career more interesting. I’ve loved my career for the last 30-plus years. I wouldn’t change it for anything with the experience that I had and and the people that I’ve met.” In this episode, Bill and Brian also dive into: 8:29 Mentors;10:45 Identify the need and provide the solution;12:10 The value of brands and quality products; 12:15 The value of strong brands in making life easier in sales;14:35 The technician shortage;20:30 AMN Drivetime’s NEW “Lightning Round” “AMN Drivetime” is sponsored by Litens. Watch the episode Listen to the podcast The post NGK’s Brian Norko On ‘AMN Drivetime’ (Video) appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

When Brian Norko, senior vice president – commercial business operations, NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., interviewed for the management trainee program at Federal-Mogul, he says he “didn’t know anything about manufacturing and … wasn’t a car enthusiast.” That didn’t slow him down when it came to carving out an incredibly successful career in automotive. Now with roughly 35 years under his belt, Norko says he still lives by the guidance he was given by the mentors he had while just starting out. “Fortunately, I had an angel in Southfield, Michigan, who was keeping his eye out for me,” said Norko. “His name was Don Thorpe, God rest his soul. He was the national sales manager for the sales division that called on NAPA and every time I would come back to Southfield, he would always look me up and we’d have lunch or have dinner. He wanted me in the sales group. He got his wish and I went into to NAPA sales for Federal-Mogul. I spent some time there and then I went into heavy-duty sales, and then into distribution. Then, they brought me back to be in finance. So, the first eight years, I really got a good dose of being a management trainee in different functional areas from sales to distribution and finance.” Norko credits another important mentor in his career for helping him learn the key to being a successful sales professional. “Another strong mentor was Bob Show, God rest his soul as well,” said Norko. “Bob was the national sales manager of heavy-duty sales at Federal-Mogul and really taught [me] the foundation that I still use with my group. The first thing he said to me when I took the job up in Minnesota in heavy-duty sales was, ‘You know, Brian, I really don’t care about writing big orders here. The next three or four months, what I care about is you get to know your customers and establishing a very good relationship with your customers. When I come back up in four months, I’m going to talk to some people and see if they know you,’ and he did.” The experience Norko gained while working in a variety of roles in the Federal-Mogul management trainee program made him a firm believer in the value not only of relationships, but in having a wide variety of skills as an aftermarket executive. When speaking to students about potential career paths in the aftermarket, this is something Norko is passionate about. “When I speak to classes or I speak to students, the one thing they ask me is how can they find that type of job, and why is it important? And what I always come back to as I deal with this today at NGK is an organization can’t have all specialists. They can, but it may make the process of strategy or problem-solving a little bit more cumbersome or time-consuming than having maybe 30-40% of your population that has spent time in sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, finance, etc. By having that background, those people are able to help others understand who the customer is and, and maybe some of the problems or challenges they have with the organization. “I mentioned Bob Show earlier. Bob always said there’s really two functions of a company from his viewpoint. His two focuses of a company were to get a customer – which if you work for a company like NGK or a company that has a lot of strong brands and high market share, that’s pretty easy to do because people want your product. Sometimes the more difficult thing to do is to keep a customer,” Norko says. “When you’re trying to keep a customer and you have people working in your team who are just not sales people, but also come from the distribution side, the manufacturing side, the finance side, they’re able to bring solutions to help you keep that customer. So, I think it’s really important to have some generalists within your team and not all specialists. That’s a message I share here at NGK all the time as I try to get people to move around within the organization just to become stronger. And really it makes the career more interesting. I’ve loved my career for the last 30-plus years. I wouldn’t change it for anything with the experience that I had and and the people that I’ve met.” In this episode, Bill and Brian also dive into: 8:29 Mentors;10:45 Identify the need and provide the solution;12:10 The value of brands and quality products; 12:15 The value of strong brands in making life easier in sales;14:35 The technician shortage;20:30 AMN Drivetime’s NEW “Lightning Round” “AMN Drivetime” is sponsored by Litens. Watch the episode Listen to the podcast The post NGK’s Brian Norko On ‘AMN Drivetime’ (Video) appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

When Brian Norko, senior vice president – commercial business operations, NGK Spark Plugs (U.S.A.) Inc., interviewed for the management trainee program at Federal-Mogul, he says he “didn’t know anything about manufacturing and … wasn’t a car enthusiast.” That didn’t slow him down when it came to carving out an incredibly successful career in automotive. Now with roughly 35 years under his belt, Norko says he still lives by the guidance he was given by the mentors he had while just starting out. “Fortunately, I had an angel in Southfield, Michigan, who was keeping his eye out for me,” said Norko. “His name was Don Thorpe, God rest his soul. He was the national sales manager for the sales division that called on NAPA and every time I would come back to Southfield, he would always look me up and we’d have lunch or have dinner. He wanted me in the sales group. He got his wish and I went into to NAPA sales for Federal-Mogul. I spent some time there and then I went into heavy-duty sales, and then into distribution. Then, they brought me back to be in finance. So, the first eight years, I really got a good dose of being a management trainee in different functional areas from sales to distribution and finance.” Norko credits another important mentor in his career for helping him learn the key to being a successful sales professional. “Another strong mentor was Bob Show, God rest his soul as well,” said Norko. “Bob was the national sales manager of heavy-duty sales at Federal-Mogul and really taught [me] the foundation that I still use with my group. The first thing he said to me when I took the job up in Minnesota in heavy-duty sales was, ‘You know, Brian, I really don’t care about writing big orders here. The next three or four months, what I care about is you get to know your customers and establishing a very good relationship with your customers. When I come back up in four months, I’m going to talk to some people and see if they know you,’ and he did.” The experience Norko gained while working in a variety of roles in the Federal-Mogul management trainee program made him a firm believer in the value not only of relationships, but in having a wide variety of skills as an aftermarket executive. When speaking to students about potential career paths in the aftermarket, this is something Norko is passionate about. “When I speak to classes or I speak to students, the one thing they ask me is how can they find that type of job, and why is it important? And what I always come back to as I deal with this today at NGK is an organization can’t have all specialists. They can, but it may make the process of strategy or problem-solving a little bit more cumbersome or time-consuming than having maybe 30-40% of your population that has spent time in sales, marketing, manufacturing, distribution, finance, etc. By having that background, those people are able to help others understand who the customer is and, and maybe some of the problems or challenges they have with the organization. “I mentioned Bob Show earlier. Bob always said there’s really two functions of a company from his viewpoint. His two focuses of a company were to get a customer – which if you work for a company like NGK or a company that has a lot of strong brands and high market share, that’s pretty easy to do because people want your product. Sometimes the more difficult thing to do is to keep a customer,” Norko says. “When you’re trying to keep a customer and you have people working in your team who are just not sales people, but also come from the distribution side, the manufacturing side, the finance side, they’re able to bring solutions to help you keep that customer. So, I think it’s really important to have some generalists within your team and not all specialists. That’s a message I share here at NGK all the time as I try to get people to move around within the organization just to become stronger. And really it makes the career more interesting. I’ve loved my career for the last 30-plus years. I wouldn’t change it for anything with the experience that I had and and the people that I’ve met.” In this episode, Bill and Brian also dive into: 8:29 Mentors;10:45 Identify the need and provide the solution;12:10 The value of brands and quality products; 12:15 The value of strong brands in making life easier in sales;14:35 The technician shortage;20:30 AMN Drivetime’s NEW “Lightning Round” “AMN Drivetime” is sponsored by Litens. Watch the episode Listen to the podcast The post NGK’s Brian Norko On ‘AMN Drivetime’ (Video) appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

MAHLE Motorsport announced plans to sponsor all classes of Southeast Gassers Association (SEGA) racing for 2022. SEGA is one of the fastest-growing forms of drag racing in the United States, with its ‘60s-era-style vintage vehicles competing with many of the original gasser rules and styles – 105 four-speed gassers, super stocks and A/FX race cars. MAHLE Motorsport, a longtime supporter, is now sponsoring all six race classes: A/Gas, B/Gas, C/Gas and SEGA Super Stock, H/Gas and A/FX. With grassroots participation limited to the look of a 1967-era drag car, rules are carefully constructed to ensure that the body, wheels/tires, chassis/suspension and engine compartment are in line with what was prevalent during this exciting era of drag racing, so no automatic transmissions are allowed. SEGA will host 11 events in 2022. The season starts March 11 at the Silver Dollar Raceway in Reynolds, Georgia, and concludes the weekend of Nov. 4 at the Shady Side Dragway in Shelby, North Carolina. All races can be watched live at www.southeastgassers.tv, or viewed uploads can be found on YouTube and on Facebook. SEGA’s two exhibition classes are H/Gas and A/FX. “Anyone that has had the opportunity to attend a SEGA event walks away with a smile on their face,” MAHLE Motorsport Marketing Manager Joe Maylish said. “These are just fun events for the entire family where mostly stock vehicles compete. The rules keep it authentic to the era – no special fuels or additives, old school tachs and gear jamming old-school transmissions – even the body styles are true to gasser racing of the ‘60s. MAHLE Motorsport is excited to become a full sponsor and we look forward to an exciting season of wheels-up racing.” Rocky Platt, SEGA VP and director of operations, added: “Southeast Gassers Association has brought back old-school racing like the pioneers of the sport and Hall of Famers such as my Dad and Uncle Huston and Hubert Platt and many others that made drag racing what it is today – except SEGA keeps it just like the ‘60s and families love it.” For more information about the Southeast Gassers Association including rules, visit www.southeastgassers.com. For more information about MAHLE Motorsport high-performance PowerPak piston kits, company sponsorships and news, visit www.mahlemotorsports.com, or call MAHLE Motorsport toll free at 888-255-1942. The post MAHLE Motorsport To Sponsor All SEGA Classes For 2022 appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

For 2019 Counter Professional of the Year Pete Chapman, the key to his success at Car Parts Warehouse (CPW) boils down to one principle: If you want to grow your business, you have to “grow your relationships.” Cultivating customer relationships is more of an art than a science. It starts with outstanding customer service, of course. But it’s also about the little things – like making sure customers know that you value their business. And Chapman could teach a course on customer appreciation. Chapman, who has been the manager of CPW’s Warrensville Heights, Ohio, facility since it opened in 2012, goes out to dinner with customers, and invites them to his home when he and his wife, Laura, are hosting a get-together. During the holidays, he sends dozens of Christmas cards to his customers, and delivers personalized gifts to his top accounts. Over the years, he has hosted a Christmas Eve fish fry at CPW’s Warrensville Heights facility, where he and Laura cook 40 to 50 pounds of catfish for his commercial and DIY customers. Saying “thank you” to customers is a familiar practice for Chapman. His father, Elvin, owned a repair shop in Fort Wayne, Indiana. Growing up, Chapman remembers how parts suppliers would send gifts to his dad – ranging from confections to Indy 500 tickets. “And I just saw the way that the different parts stores and vendors took care of him,” Chapman says. “They weren’t buying him. They were telling him ‘thanks.’” For Tony Wiederhoeft, an outside salesperson for the Auto Value stores in Mankato and Waseca, Minnesota, customer appreciation comes naturally. Like Chapman, Wiederhoeft attributes his success to the relationships he’s developed since joining Auto Value in 2019. In March 2021, Automotive Parts Headquarters (APH) recognized Wiederhoeft as the 2020 Auto Value Salesperson of the Year. “Once you build a relationship with [your customers], everything just kind of clicks,” Wiederhoeft says. Depending on the day, Wiederhoeft might visit a handful of shops or he might make it to 15 or more shops. No matter how many calls he makes, Wiederhoeft has embedded customer appreciation into his routine. “Sometimes, if they need a car pushed in, I’ll end up helping push a car in,” Wiederhoeft says. “Or if it’s a one-man shop and they need somebody to bleed the brakes, I might sit in the car and bleed the brakes. “The way I look at it, I work for them and I work for Auto Value. … They’re more than customers – they’re friends, they’re family. I’m not there just to sell them something. I’m there for them.” Wiederhoeft credits his employer, APH, for fostering the family atmosphere. On any given day in a normal summer, you’ll find one of APH’s events trailers setting up shop in one of its markets, grilling hot dogs and hamburgers for the local technicians. In the smaller communities where APH does business, “word gets around and we pretty much feed the community,” adds Jim Pascale, APH’s vice president of store operations. On especially hot summer days, APH delivery drivers bring ice-cold bottled water and even ice-cream treats to its professional customers. Saint Cloud, Minnesota-based APH celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2020. To commemorate its centennial, APH had planned a number of customer-appreciation events throughout the year. The centerpiece of the yearlong celebration was going to be its 1952 International Metro delivery truck, which was completely restored and ready to deliver 100,000 ice cream treats to customers across APH’s six-state market. While the pandemic forced APH to scale back its in-person events in 2020, the Metro delivery truck hit the road the following summer. In September 2021, Wiederhoeft got behind the wheel of the vintage delivery truck to delight some of his customers. Of course, he made a point to visit his top accounts. But he also swung by a few shops “that I don’t do a lot of business with.” “I drove that ice-cream truck all day,” Wiederhoeft recalls. “We put some serious miles on it. I was in five towns in one day, and they loved it. “ … We opened up the side panel and everybody from the shop would come out. Some of them are looking at the vehicle, some are enjoying the ice cream, some are signing up for prizes. But I didn’t have anybody say, ‘I don’t have time for that.’ Every single one of them came out to check it out.” Getting Personal How do you build strong relationships with your customers? It’s not complicated. You have to spend time with them and get to know them, Wiederhoeft explains. “They tend to open up more to you when you open up to them,” Wiederhoeft says. “So I’ll buy them pizza or donuts or whatever, and sit down and just hang out with them.” By spending time with his customers, Wiederhoeft gets a good feel for their hobbies and interests. He takes some of his shops hunting and fishing. In August, he took some of his customers to the Lucas Oil NHRA Nationals drag races at Brainerd International Raceway, after receiving tickets for being the 2020 Auto Value Salesperson of the Year. “Instead of just taking my family, I also took a couple of my customers,” Wiederhoeft says. “They had the best time of their life, and we’re going to go back no matter what this year.” For one of his top customers, the event was his first drag race. “He was like, ‘Dude, we have to go back.’ He wants to bring a couple other people and make a whole weekend out of it this year. It’s the little things like that, I think, that make a world of difference.” The post Saying ‘Thanks’ To Your Customers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Continental offers the Autodiagnos TPMS SE service tool as an ideal solution for multiple-bay shops that want to increase their TPMS-service capabilities and profits. Designed to work with 100% of OE sensors and aftermarket sensors from REDI Sensor and EZ-sensor, Autodiagnos TPMS SE can perform relearns on over 95% of domestic, Asian and European models, according to the company. The Autodiagnos TPMS SE was developed for multi-bay shops that require more than one TPMS tool in service at a time. It provides direct (OBD, auto, manual) and indirect TPMS relearn procedures and displays sensor ID, pressure, temperature and battery status in a matter of seconds. The tool also utilizes a cabled connection to perform OBD II mode relearns. “Diagnostic tools can offer great service opportunities for shops, but often come with a hefty price tag. The Autodiagnos TPMS SE tool is an affordable option that allows larger shops to provide critical TPMS service to multiple customers simultaneously,” said Christopher Bahlman, head of diagnostics and services for Continental. “Plus, the tool is backed by Continental’s TPMS and OEM expertise, giving technicians peace of mind when servicing this critical safety system.” In addition to the Autodiagnos TPMS SE, Continental also offers the Autodiagnos TPMS D tool as a solution for shops that only need a single tool for their service and diagnostic needs. This tool reads and clears TPMS codes and has a built-in VIN scanner for faster make/model/year lookups. It also can program sensors from historical data and features an OBD II mode that streamlines relearns for all of a vehicle’s sensors in under two minutes. The TPMS D works with 100% of OE and aftermarket sensors from REDI Sensor and EZ-sensor, according to Continental. Continental Diagnostics & Services (D&S) was founded nearly 10 years ago to address the needs of service providers for advanced diagnostics, service information, connected services and specialty solutions, such as PTI (periodic technical inspection). D&S has developed diagnostics and service solutions for North America under the Autodiagnos brand. Key product offerings include professional aftermarket scan tools, TPMS diagnostic and service tools and a connected-vehicle data platform. For more information, visit www.autodiagnosTPMS.com or contact [email protected]. The post Autodiagnos TPMS SE Works With 100% Of OE, Aftermarket Sensors appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article