Counterman

Schaeffler was recently recognized as a top global supplier of 2023 by General Motors during the automaker’s annual Supplier of the Year event in Miami, Florida. This is the fourth time Schaeffler has been honored with this award. Emphasizing shared values between GM and global suppliers, the rigorous selection process distinguishes those who align closely with GM’s principles. These values, rooted in performance, innovation, cultural alignment, and commitment to GM’s ambitious goals, serve as the foundation of the selection criteria. “Receiving this prestigious award from General Motors is a testament to our relentless dedication to delivering outstanding quality and performance,” said Klaus Rosenfeld, CEO of Schaeffler AG. “We are honored to be recognized as a top global supplier and look forward to further advancing our partnership with GM in the pursuit of automotive excellence.” Photo from left: Pratik Shah, Schaeffler Key Account Manager; Klaus Rosenfeld, Schaeffler CEO; Peter Layer, GM Purchasing, Executive Director of Chassis Propulsion Structures; Jon Jameson, Schaeffler Sr. Vice President Global Key Account Manager; Allen Pervo, Schaeffler Key Account Manager Jon Jameson, Senior Vice President and GM Global Key Account Manager, Schaeffler added “At Schaeffler, we are immensely proud of our continued partnership with General Motors. This recognition underscores our commitment to innovation and excellence, driving us to exceed expectations in every aspect of our collaboration.” The selection process is guided by the GPSC Priority Wheel, which prioritizes the customer in every aspect of supply chain decision-making. The framework’s core values of safety, inclusion and relationships serve as the foundation for other priorities such as sustainability, innovation, execution, resilience, and profitability. “We’re honored to partner with these top suppliers who have made notable contributions to our transformation. Together, we’re pushing boundaries, pioneering new technologies and redefining what’s possible,” said Jeff Morrison, vice president, Global Purchasing and Supply Chain, General Motors. “Their innovation and support are critical to helping us deliver the world-class vehicles our customers have to come expect.” The post Schaeffler Recognized as General Motors 2023 Top Global Supplier appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In business, as in life, mistakes WILL happen. How you respond will make the difference in whether your customer will remain loyal and continue to do business with your store. Customer relations are easy as long as things go well – when they don’t, you and your team have the opportunity to shine or look like the proverbial pile of…well, you know. Let me underscore this with a recent experience I had at a global coffee chain. I love heading out to the coffee house with my wife, Marlene, to grab a cold brew or blended beverage. While we are hanging out there, we’ll plan trips, discuss an upcoming event – this has been our “date night” routine for many years. You see, this chain had pioneered the “third place” experience, where customers and non-customers alike are welcomed to their stores. People could experience some great tunes, meet with friends or business associates, work on homework, read a book, and sip on a tasty beverage. In the post-Covid world though, I worry that the customer experience has suffered. We recently endured a visit to our nearby location that gave me pause. From that experience I began to consider our clients’ and your store’s interactions with your customers and the fragile nature of the relationship. I began to recognize the creep of “Customer Experience Decline” (let’s call it CED) that can occur if you take your eyes off the ball, like this coffee chain has. Back to the coffee house: we ordered two blended beverages and a water, three drinks total. Marlene’s drink and the water came up first, then several minutes went by. After waiting patiently, I decided to head back to the counter, where the staff found creative ways to ignore my presence with world-class ease. Drinks zipped through the blender and were handed off to the drive-through attendant. I wondered when I would see mine. Perhaps the drink label they affixed to the cup didn’t print, so I bided my time and waited. Finally, my drink was delivered to the counter, where its maker hollered my name. Keep in mind, I was standing right in front of her. Before she scampered away, I asked, “Could you help me to understand the reason my drink took five minutes longer than my wife’s?” The look on her face was priceless, as though I had asked a question worthy of a Mensa exam! Pausing a moment, she responded, “We are shorthanded,” an answer you hear far too often today. Still, I thought, why did I see eight other drinks processed before mine was delivered? I pursued the first question again, with the same answer, this time delivered without a smile. Again, trying to understand, I asked the question a different way. Her next response absolutely floored me: she glared at me as though I’d fallen off a turnip truck, raised her hands to the side of her head, palms up and then just shrugged. Essentially, she communicated nonverbally, “I really don’t care! Here’s your drink, now go away!!” For a coffee chain that had built its reputation of being a welcoming location, outstanding interactions with their guests and building a sense of community had fallen to a simple act of indifference to a loyal customer’s request. Handling Customer Challenges How are challenges handled at your store? Does your staff have the same passion to care for your clients that you do? Have you kept an eye on things, one of the many things a parts professional is responsible for on a daily basis? Are you aware that, according to a study commissioned by the White House Office of Consumer Affairs, 75% of customers leave a business due to apathy, also known as indifference? The good news of that staggering figure is that if we can control our behavior and our team, we can eliminate 75% of the reason a customer would stop buying from us! All we need to do is to provide exceptional customer service and experience! Let’s look at five simple ways you, your counter pros and anyone who interacts with a customer can meet and exceed your customers’ expectations. Listen You’d be surprised how often we miss the mark. The counter is busy, the phone is ringing, parts drivers need your signature, the computer is slow and the customer is standing in front of you. With all the distractions, how do you make sure things don’t fall through the cracks with the customer? Stay engaged, keep your eyes on them, focus and ask questions. Write or type the information down and, most importantly, review the requests with them before the leave the store. Don’t rush! I am sure you and they alike would rather wait an extra minute or two so you can make sure all their requests are noted and handled, rather than them showing up to pick the car up and learning that your team missed the oil change or state inspection they needed! Be Present Being present is pretty simple – tune into the customer, whether you’re in-person or on the phone. It’s really off-putting when a person (often the advisor) disengages from a conversation to answer a question coming from the background, or worse, laughs at something that might be out earshot of your customer. Ask Questions This one is even easier. By listening (highlighted in the first bullet point), your team will be armed with the information needed to ask the right follow-up questions. Your customer, your techs and you, as the owner, are all relying on the advisor who is at the tip of the spear to get it right. When we listen, ask the right questions and write the answers down, everyone in the process can participate in ensuring the job is done completely and accurately every time. Don’t Make Excuses! Mistakes will happen. If it really is your fault, don’t try to hide behind an excuse or try to give a complicated reason for the issue. Just say, “We made a mistake and we’ll make it right.” Remember to choose your words wisely though, so as not to give away the farm. In most cases, the customer understands that everyone is human, and won’t put the screws to you. Say I’m Sorry Remember my coffee shop story? I was literally blown off and figuratively given the middle finger. The likelihood that I’ll grace that store’s doors again is slim at best. To be honest, a simple apology for the wait would have sufficed and disarmed my frustration, along with letting me know how valuable my business is. A well placed “I’m sorry” goes a long way. Conclusion You have many roles as a counter professional, but it all starts with setting the tone as a leader, training your team on what you expect. Occasionally inspecting their work and consistent review of your store’s culture will go a long way toward ensuring your customers KNOW that YOU care about them, their cars and the experience they receive each time they head to your shop. Don’t let something as controllable as indifference alienate loyal clientele. The post Do You Suffer From CED? Good News – It’s Curable appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

B’laster Holdings announced the B’laster brand will be expanding into the refrigerants category with a lineup of products created to service and maintain both R-134a and R-1234yf automotive A/C systems. The B’laster A/C line is now available in retailers across the U.S., the company said. Features and benefits of the B’laster Refrigerants, according to B’laster Holdings, include: Smart Clips allow users to charge by temperature and provide an easier, more accurate way to determine when an AC recharge is complete. Charging an automotive AC system using temperature helps the user avoid overcharging the system. The Safe-Seal formulation permanently repairs micro leaks in both metal and rubber components found in an AC system. The stop leak technology is not reactive with oxygen or humidity because it is not a polymer-based stop leak so it won’t clog your AC system and is safe for use with RRR service machines. Safe-Seal circulates along with the refrigerant in the vehicle’s AC system, sealing micro leaks proactively before they become larger leaks over time. B’laster works with real mechanics to design its product offerings, so users get the perfect pairing of a professional-grade product with DIY package technology. “B’laster has created some of the best automotive care products in the market since 1957,” said Marketing & Product Manager, Morgan Pollen. “With decades of experience to build on, we’re excited about the new technology we’ve developed and incorporated into the B’laster A/C product line. We pride ourselves on being innovative and offering products that both professionals and DIYers can use.” The post B’laster Holdings Launches B’laster Refrigerants Line appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Genuine Parts Company (GPC), global distributor of automotive and industrial replacement parts, announced it acquired Motor Parts & Equipment Corporation (MPEC), effective April 30, 2024, for its U.S. Automotive business. MPEC, founded in 1938 and based in Rockford, Illinois, is the largest independent owner of NAPA Auto Parts stores in the U.S., operating 181 locations across Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin, according to GPC. “We are pleased to announce the completion of this strategic acquisition, which aligns with our initiative to own more NAPA stores in priority markets,” said Will Stengel, president & CEO-elect of GPC. “We appreciate our long-standing partnership with MPEC’s Executive Chairman, Joseph Hansberry, and welcome our new MPEC teammates to GPC and NAPA. We are excited to work together to deliver solutions and value to our customers.” The post GPC Acquires Largest US NAPA Independent Store Owner appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Schaeffler Group USA has expanded its parts offerings for vehicles in the United States and Canada, adding over 70 new parts to the INA, LuK and Schaeffler Bearings portfolios in the first quarter of 2024. These additions expand application coverage to an additional 30 million vehicles in operation, the company said. New LuK products include 9 different Clutch Kits, including traditional LuK RepSets and RepSet DMFs. The newly released Clutch Kits provide coverage to many common vehicle applications, including various Toyota, BMW and Volkswagen models, accounting for 4.3 million vehicles in operation, the company said. Specifically, LuK 16-126, for Toyota Tacoma 2016-2021 applications, provides coverage for over 1.3 million vehicles in operation, the company said. The Schaeffler Bearings product portfolio has expanded its offering to include 36 new part numbers, including Hub Assembly and Hub Assembly Kits, providing coverage for over 30 million vehicles in operation. With this expansion, Schaeffler said it provides a broader selection of single bearing components, as well as WheelSets for a more comprehensive repair solution. The Schaeffler Bearings product expansion includes various EV applications for Tesla and Polestar, showing Schaeffler’s “unwavering commitment to innovation and enhanced engineering capabilities,” the company said. WH13371, for Polestar, Polestar 2 2021-2023, and various Volvo applications, provides coverage for over 400K+ vehicles in operation, according to Schaeffler. The product line expansions of Schaeffler’s three brands in 2024 builds upon those released in 2023. The new products support many types of vehicles, including internal combustion, hybrid and fully electric vehicles under the LuK, INA and Schaeffler Bearings & Seals brands. For information, visit Schaeffler Group USA. The post Schaeffler Group USA Expands Product Portfolio appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

he Automotive Communications Council announced speakers for its upcoming conference, May 21-23, in Cleveland, OH. While the complete agenda will be released soon, ACC provided this sneak peek at some of the thought leaders who will share their knowledge on the latest trends, strategies and innovations in automotive communications. While the complete agenda will be released soon, ACC provided this sneak peek at some of the thought leaders who will share their knowledge on the latest trends, strategies and innovations in automotive communications. · Matt Buckholtz, CEO, MotoRad · Peter Bulmer, Founder and CEO, Turnkey Media · Kathleen Long, Chief Revenue Officer, RepairPal · Jacki Lutz, Content Director, Auto Care Association · Steffanie Martin, Executive VP, MBE Group · Lauren McCulough, Founder & CEO Tromml · Chris Messer, VP/Group Publisher, Endeavor Business Media · Stacy Miller, VP, Communication, Auto Care Association · Catherine Wasner, Founder & Lead Consultant, The Next Page Themed “Backstage Pass,” this event “promises to take you behind the scenes of the automotive aftermarket industry, showcasing the latest innovations, strategies, and insights from leading experts in the field,” ACC said. The post ACC Provides Sneak Peek into Conference Speakers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

TechShop’s Tool Time Podcast Series highlights tool and equipment trends, combined with an educational focus on technology that brings solutions to shop owners and techs as they address the growing complexity of vehicle repair. In this episode, Nadine Battah and Eric Garbe sit down with CTA Tools’ Alex Borghard and Alberto Roldan to discuss the specialty tools their company offers. It’s important to stay current, or even ahead of demand in the industry, and Alex Borghard tells the hosts about the challenges of doing so. “As anyone who works in the automotive industry knows, it’s constantly changing,” explains Borghard, VP of marketing and business development for CTA Tools. “Whatever products we might sell today, there is a very strong chance that in 10-15 years from know, those products will no longer be in demand because the vehicles may no longer be on the road. That gives us the challenge to really stay on top of things and know what is in demand today and might be down the road. Click for more Tool Time Podcasts The post Tool Time Podcast: CTA Tools appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Registration for AAPEX 2024 is officially open. The event will take place November 5–7, at The Venetian Expo and Caesar’s Forum in Las Vegas, Nevada. Recapping the 2023 AAPEX Show, 130 countries were represented and more than 500,000 square foot of expo space was available for attendee exploration. There were more than 100 training opportunities offered as well as 2,500 exhibiting manufacturers. “Elevate your expertise through hands-on training, empowering your business to embrace the latest best practices. Stay at the forefront of ever-evolving vehicle technology with captivating live demos and product exhibits. AAPEX isn’t just some flashy Las Vegas car show; it’s where the industry takes on challenges, builds relationships, and propels businesses toward a greener future,” the website said. “AAPEX is the only event that combines live, interactive demos and training; expert-led business education; and in-person connection with the global automotive aftermarket community. Spend three days in Las Vegas packed with everything you need to keep vehicles on the road and your business on the right track,” according to AAPEX. Stay in the know with AAPEX-TV 360: explore highlights from 2023, watch in-depth videos on industry topics, and see photos and videos from the 2023 event. The post Registration for AAPEX 2024 Now Open appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

During HDA Truck Pride’s recent Annual Meeting, attendees raised $35,000 for Kids Matter International. Kicking off its 2024 Annual Meeting, HDA Truck Pride hosted a Cornhole Tournament & Welcome Dinner, where teams competed in a friendly yet spirited competition, with all proceeds being donated to Kids Matter International. Throughout the week there were additional opportunities for attendees to contribute to the charity partner and make an impact. “We are honored to partner with Kids Matter International and incredibly proud of our network for their passionate efforts in being able to raise $35,000 for kids in need. The Kids Matter commitment to the Grapevine community deeply resonates with the values we hold within our HDA Truck Pride network. We’re all about communities coming together to help each other and protect future generations. What better way to do that than through some friendly competition?” said HDA Truck Pride President & CEO, Tina Hubbard. Founded in 2006, Kids Matter International has been instrumental in providing essential resources and educational opportunities to children in need in the Grapevine, Texas, area. From providing new clothing, shoes, books, and backpacks, to offering educational programs, Kids Matter International empowers children and instills hope for a brighter future, HDA Truck Pride explained. For a child who lives in poverty, wearing tattered, worn-out clothes and shoes can negatively impact their self-esteem and confidence. It can also negatively impact their ability to learn when not appropriately dressed for weather conditions. With a donation of $100, Kids Matter International provides up to $350 worth of new clothes and shoes to a child in need, the organization said. “This donation will enable us to provide clothing to an additional 350 kids in 2024, resulting in a total value of $122,500 in new merchandise,” expressed Marti Conner, president & CEO of Kids Matter International. “On behalf of the children we serve, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to HDA Truck Pride and the attendees for making a significant difference in the lives of these children.” The post HDA Truck Pride Raises $35,000 for Kids Matter International appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Paul Donahue (at left) will transition from chairman and CEO to executive chairman. William Stengel, II, currently president and COO, will succeed Donahue as president and CEO of GPC and will serve as a member of the board of directors. Genuine Parts Company announced that Paul D. Donahue will transition from chairman and CEO to executive chairman, effective June 3, 2024. At that time, William P. Stengel, II, currently president and COO, will succeed Donahue as president and CEO of GPC and will serve as a member of the board of directors. “The board is confident that Will is the right person to lead GPC into the future and that the company is positioned to continue delivering value to our customers and shareholders,” said John D. Johns, lead independent director of GPC’s board of directors. “During his tenure at GPC, he’s worked closely with Paul to shape the company’s strategic priorities and with the global leadership teams to evolve the business and deliver outstanding performance.” Stengel joined the company in 2019 as executive vice president and chief transformation officer with nearly two decades of leadership and professional experience. In 2021, he was promoted to serve as only the eighth president in the company’s history. His role expanded to president and chief operating officer in 2023. Prior to joining GPC, he served in various executive leadership roles at HD Supply, including as president and CEO of HD Supply Facilities Maintenance, as well as at The Home Depot and in various investment banking roles. “I am humbled and honored for the opportunity to lead Genuine Parts Company and especially grateful for my GPC teammates and the support of Paul and the board of directors,” said Stengel. “We will continue to build on the strong foundation laid over many years as we work to deliver solutions for our customers, invest in talent and capabilities and create value for our shareholders.” “On behalf of the board of directors, I want to extend our heartfelt appreciation to Paul for his remarkable leadership spanning over two decades, culminating as chairman and CEO,” said Johns. “Under his leadership, the company simplified its business mix, expanded its global footprint and delivered significant shareholder value. Paul’s positive impact on GPC has been remarkable, and we look forward to his continued guidance as he transitions to his new role as executive chairman.” “I am incredibly proud of all we have accomplished as One GPC team, and equally grateful for the 20+ years I have been privileged to work for this amazing company. As I transition from the CEO role, I am pleased to welcome Will as only the sixth CEO in our company’s 96-year history,” said Donahue. “I have every confidence in Will, our global leadership teams and our board of directors to deliver on our vision to be the leading global automotive and industrial parts distributor and solutions provider.” The post Genuine Parts Company Announces CEO Leadership Transition appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

PRT, an ADD Group brand, announced the launch of 30 new complete strut assemblies for light vehicles, SUVs and pickups, which it said represent more than 10 million vehicles in new coverage. The launches covers a range of vehicle applications, including the Hyundai Tucson, Kia Sorento and Acura RDX, in addition to brand-new applications, such as the GMC Acadia 2021, Chevrolet Blazer 2021, and Subaru Outback 2021, among others. “These new items come to expand our coverage for the US aftermarket. As an OE supplier, we continually invest in research and development, delivering innovative solutions from OE to our clients in the aftermarket. The new products are in stock and ready to ship,” said Bruno Bello, director of global marketing. For more information, call 1-770-238-1611, visit www.prtautoparts.com, or follow @prtautoparts. The post PRT Launches 30 New Complete Strut Assemblies appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In his chairman’s message to the industry, Tom Trisdale, the new chairman of ASE and vice president, quality for Toyota, says 2024 is a year of “action and change” for the The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. It is the responsibility of ASE’s Board of Directors, he says, to help ASE advance to meet the realities of today’s market, support a pipeline for future technicians and elevate the value of professional certification for all. Tom Trisdale, 2024 chairman of The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. “For more than 50 years, ASE has been a unifying force to improve the quality of repair and service in the transportation industry through testing and certification. With ASE, every professional technician can demonstrate their technical capability to the standards and tasks defined by their peers and experts in all areas of service, repair and diagnosis — across automotive, truck/heavy equipment and collision repair disciplines. I am incredibly excited and honored to serve as the chair for the ASE board of directors in 2024. Through ASE, technicians, shop owners, dealers, parts makers, manufacturers of tools and equipment, service information providers and vehicle manufacturers all come together with one aim — elevate our profession and the results we all deliver to the motoring public. This is a year of action and change at ASE. The challenges of repairing and servicing across all forms of vehicles have never been greater. The pressures facing working technicians have also never been higher. Now more than ever, the standards and structure that ASE and the ASE Education Foundation provide for our profession are needed to support our trade and provide confidence to the consumer. It is our responsibility, as a board and with industry partners, to help ASE advance to meet the realities of today’s market, support a pipeline for future technicians and elevate the value of professional certification for all. Working with and through the ASE leadership team, we are committed to: Confirm and update the alignment of ASE education standards and professional testing with the technologies on the road and in your shops Streamline access and availability of testing Elevate the understanding and visibility of professional technician development and certification by service professionals, consumers, service providers and other stakeholders Nearly a quarter million service professionals, and more than 72,000 students, are currently certified by ASE. My challenge to all of us involved in the service or repair of motor vehicles, trucks and heavy equipment is to get engaged with ASE. Participate in the industry surveys of current work, join the technical webinars, promote our profession and importantly, get certified if you are not and if you are certified, promote the value of an industry standard measure of knowledge and capability. ASE is an organization that serves technicians and the entire motoring public, so let us work together and deliver on the mission of professional service and quality repair. Click to learn more about The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence. The post 2024 to be a ‘Year Of Action’ for ASE, Says Chairman appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

If there’s any doubt to the importance of a coolant flush, let there be none. Simply put, engine coolant is a chemical. As it breaks down, it becomes increasingly acidic, leading to eventual corrosion on all the metal, plastic and rubber parts in the system. The most misleading part is the color. Just because it may still look new doesn’t mean it acts that way. By the time coolant loses its nice hue and turns brown and rusty, it’s already years past what the service interval should have been, and it’s doing some serious damage to the cooling system. This is why it’s important to flush coolant at regular intervals. The “old-school” rule of thumb has been to flush coolant every two years. However, many newer vehicles specify five or even six years, or as many as 150,000 miles before the coolant needs to be changed. It’s true these newer coolants will last longer due to their advanced chemical composition, but they were developed out of necessity. The aluminum, plastic and pot metals used in today’s vehicles are far more susceptible to rapid corrosion. When everything was cast-iron, it was far less of a problem. Because of the increased propensity for corrosion, when testing coolant, it’s become important to not only check the freeze protection, but also the pH, or level of acidity of the coolant, regardless of the specified interval. When the pH level begins to drop, the coolant is becoming more acidic, and will cause damage to the cooling-system components. You can do this by using pH test strips. Coolant flushes are a common DIY service, and it’s likely you’ll get questions on the process from time to time. Like a lot of automotive services, there can be more than meets the eye, so the first thing I always recommend is before you begin, be sure to block off plenty of time. You can’t rush through a thorough coolant flush. To ensure the most effective job, it can be beneficial to start with a flush solvent or cooling-system cleaner. These products are designed to loosen built-up rust and sediment, as well as act as a degreaser to remove any oil buildup in the system. When using one of these products, be sure to follow the instructions for use. They are only effective when you use them as specified. Some shops may offer a coolant drain and fill, which I like to clarify does not hold the same definition of a flush. The drain-and-fill method works as it sounds. It’s a quick drain of the radiator, followed by filling it with fresh coolant and checking cooling-system operation. This requires much less coolant, is not preceded by a flush solvent and is not a thorough cleaning of the entire cooling system. The drain-and-fill method is, however, effective to maintain the condition of coolant, but only when it is performed on a very routine basis. A coolant flush is a deep cleaning of the cooling system, and an attempt to completely flush out sediment and rust buildup from the most remote nooks and crannies of the system. The longer a vehicle goes without coolant service, the more important the coolant flush in this manner. The trick is opening the system in enough places so you can get access for a thorough flush, and whenever I recommend a coolant flush, I recommend a new coolant thermostat. When it’s time for a coolant flush, it means the thermostat is old. Period. Thermostats only last so long; in my opinion they should be considered regular service items. But aside from that, the thermostat will block the flow of the water in a manner that prevents a thorough service. Getting Started So, here’s the overall workflow of a coolant flush. I begin by adding a flush solvent and letting it circulate per manufacturer instructions. Then, after the system has cooled, I drain the radiator and remove both the upper and lower radiator hoses. Next, I disconnect the heater hoses (sometimes at the engine, sometimes at the heater core depending on access), and I remove the thermostat. Some vehicles have more complicated arrays of cooling hoses, depending on the engine or additional oil and transmission coolers. In some cases, I remove some of these as well to be sure I’m able to accurately flush all parts of the system. Finally, if the vehicle has a separate coolant reservoir, which most of them do today, I remove the reservoir. At this step, I also clean the mounting surface for the thermostat housing, as well as any water-neck corrosion so this is all washed away during the flush. Now you have the system open in multiple locations to allow unrestricted flow. I use a hose to flush the radiator, the engine block, the heater core, and when there are additional coolant hoses for auxiliary coolers, I flush those as well. I flush every section in both directions, to allow the pressure from the hose to agitate and loosen sediment. I continue to flush each section or component until I see only clean, clear water coming out. I also use a combination of compressed air and the water hose to clean the radiator and/or A/C condenser fins. Be sure to also thoroughly flush out the coolant reservoir. If it’s heavily contaminated and you’re having a hard time getting everything out, or if it’s badly discolored and hard to see through, it should be replaced. Once I’m satisfied everything is well flushed, it’s time to install the new thermostat and reinstall all the hoses. The Water Question I often get questions about the water. Some people have well water, some city water, some treated, some not. If you look online, you’ll find varied opinions on what is best to use. Some say softened water, some say store-bought distilled water, some point out potential negative affects related to any of them. The biggest problem with many water sources is minerals or hard particulate that, while they aren’t enough to cause corrosion problems, may be enough to damage water-pump seals. So, here’s what I do. You have to use water to flush the system. Use what you have. If you’ve removed all the necessary hoses to properly flush all portions of the system, the majority of all the water will drain back out. If you’re concerned about contaminants – for example if you have well water that you know has a lot of iron or particulates in it – pour distilled water into the different sections of the system and allow it to drain out. This will displace any of the questionable water. What may remain just won’t be enough to be a problem. Then, instead of mixing your own coolant, I recommend using a pre-mix 50/50. This ensures the overall best quality. In most cases, what little water remains in the system is not enough to reduce the freeze protection of 50/50 coolant, so you can use this for the entire fill. Once the system is buttoned up, fill the coolant and run the vehicle until the thermostat opens and the vehicle reaches operating temperature. While this is routine for most vehicles, keep in mind that some have specific procedures to bleed the air out of the system. Aside from a drain pan, coolant and thermostat, most basic hand tools are all you need to get the job done. However, most cars now have constant-tension hose clamps, also known as spring clamps. You can fight with these, or you can use a hose clamp tool, which saves a ton of time and aggravation. Some people prefer to discard these clamps in favor of worm clamps, but I recommend reusing them. They offer a much more consistent, even clamping force on hose connections, and help prevent distortion of plastic fittings. The final tool I recommend is a spill-free funnel. These are inexpensive, but worth their weight in gold. Anytime you perform cooling-system service, there are air pockets in the system. When you fill it for the first time and let the vehicle warm up, the expansion of the air is drastic and forces the coolant out. Once the thermostat opens and all air pockets are forced out, the system “settles” down. You can usually avoid a mess on systems that have a coolant reservoir, as long as you don’t fill it too full at first. But a spill-free funnel comes with adapters to connect to radiators and reservoirs. Not only does it keep you from spilling coolant as you fill it, but it also keeps the coolant from spilling out while the system is warming up for the first time. As soon as the thermostat opens, you will see it draw all the coolant in. You can top it off at that time, remove the spill-free funnel and install the radiator or reservoir cap. As a final check, let the system cool completely and top off the coolant. The post The Purge: Flushing & Filling the Coolant appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

This article, contributed by Tom Cook, is courtesy of AftermarketNews. All companies engaged in the global supply chain seek to lower the “landed costs” on their goods in imports and exports sales, purchasing and operations. While there are numerous components that make up “landed costs,” duties, taxes and tariffs are a huge factor and can often be a detriment to global trade. Duties, taxes and tariffs are costs borne by the importer as the goods enter a country. These fees are assessed by the country’s local customs authority. In the USA, this is the U.S. Bureau of Customs Border and Protection (CBP). These fees are determined by what the product is and where it is from. The “what” is known as the HTS (Harmonized Tariff Schedule) and the “where” is the actual origin country of the product. While some of the guidelines are standardized from one country to another, we must understand that the customs rules and their interoperation often vary differently from one country to another. Sometimes the differences are slight and in other countries the differences are huge. The importer of record (IOR) has the primary responsibility to determine the correct HTS and origin upon entry of the goods for customs clearance in the country of import. Most importers utilize the services of freight forwarders, customhouse brokers and/or 3PL’s to provide these clearance services, as well as rely on their expertise to accomplish the clearance process in a successful and compliant manner. Importers may also obtain the assistance of these service providers in determining the correct HTS classification and the origin. Importers are legally responsible to exercise: • Due Diligence • Reasonable Care • Supervision & Control These standards are the responsibility of the importer of record (IOR). If the IOR outsources the responsibility to a customs broker, under the “supervision & control” standard, the IOR is still responsible for supervising and controlling for the statements and information provided by this third-party on their behalf. This standard requires the importer to have a working knowledge of the import regulations and be able to properly supervise their outsourced provider. Customs recognizes that an importer may need guidance in the clearance process. This may be received from CBP, a qualified consultant, a customs attorney or a practitioner that has expertise in customs regulations. It is critical to understand the steps in managing duties, taxes and tariffs. The first is to understand how the import regulations apply, followed by learning what measures can be taken to mitigate the risk and cost associated with duties, taxes and tariffs. If the origin and the classification are the controlling factors, it is important to understand that this is where the answers lie to mitigation. For example, Section 301 tariffs on certain goods exported from China into the U.S. may add as much as a 25% surcharge to the import landed cost. This resulted in many companies seeking out alternative sourcing options to avoid this surcharge. In addressing alternative sourcing options, nearshoring, reshoring and friend shoring – countries such as but not limited to Vietnam, S. Korea, Taiwan, Malaysia – all presented viable options. In some situations, the acquisition cost may have been higher, but when calculating the landed cost, with the 25% duty eliminated, the comparison demonstrated a viable alternative to the importer. Companies involved in aftermarket sales, where margins are tight, can benefit from this type of analysis and mitigation strategy. Another strategy involves the Harmonized Tariff Schedule, or what the product is, from CBP’s perspective. First, we want to make sure we are utilizing the proper HTS number. It can be possible that the correct HTS number, when changed, will offer a lower duty rate. Secondly, what we refer to as “Tariff Engineering” is a legitimate manipulation of a product’s design or materials that impacts its classification and potentially lowers the duty rate. The choice of materials, the functionality of the product, product specifications or qualities all impact how a product is classified. For example, changing the make-up of the materials utilized in fabrics, such as the mix of cotton, rayon, nylon, etc. will change the classification of a product. Features such as changing the product to be waterproof and adding other qualities may also change the tariff classification and impact the duty rate. Another example may be how the product is designed; for example, for personal utilization or for commercial application, may have an impact. How parts and equipment are assembled and utilized can also have an impact on the classification as well as the origin. The amount of “value-add” in the manufacturing or assembly process can also impact how CBP will view the origin and/or the HTS, therefore directly impacting the duty rates. Tariff Engineering requires R&D, engineering, and technical support, as well as guidance from trade professionals that can assist in interpreting the import regulations and research prior CBP rulings. CBP has a great resource called CROSS which is a searchable database of CBP rulings that can be retrieved based on simple or complex search characteristics using keywords and Boolean operators. CROSS has the added functionality of cross-referencing rulings from the initial search result set with their modified, revoked or referenced counterparts. Rulings collections are separated into Headquarters and New York and span the years 1989 to present. Collections can be searched individually or collectively. CROSS can be an excellent resource in managing the impact of duties and tariffs on landed costs. Duties, taxes and tariffs often emanate from political and economic positions from government offices and agencies. We witnessed this when President Trump put forward the 232 and 301 Tariffs in his first year in office. China then secured retaliatory duties. We have seen these similar actions in the EU, Australia, Mexico and Canada. Personnel in the aftermarket engaged in global supply chain purchasing, sales and operations need to pay attention to the political and economic situations in the countries they do business in, as regulations impacting duties and tariffs change frequently with both positive and negative consequences. Additionally, trade organizations’ lobbying efforts should be followed with the Executive Branch and Congress. These efforts seek to keep open free trade concepts and minimize the utilization of duties and tariffs as political and economic weapons in global affairs. Studies have been accomplished that clearly demonstrate the negative impact of tariffs on manufacturing, distribution, and trade costs in the global supply chain. While many tariffs are designed to protect industries or certain markets, they generally wreak havoc in global trade and have negative impacts. The automobile industry, its suppliers and ancillary industries such as the aftermarket are significantly impacted by duties, taxes and tariffs. In controlling “landed costs,” duty and tariff mitigation as outlined above are all good strategies, but there are other options that also should be considered: • Utilization of Foreign Trade Zones • Consolidating Transportation Providers and Carriers • Running annual Freight RFP’s • Choice of INCO Terms • Alternative Sourcing • Free Trade Agreements • Location and methodology in warehousing, fulfillment, and distribution • Utilization of Technology • Demand Planning Systems In summary, developing strategies in tariff mitigation is a viable solution to duty and tariff management and ultimately lowering landed costs and enhancing your company’s competitiveness in both import and export purchasing and sales. Thomas Cook is Managing Director of Blue Tiger International, a global consultancy advising on supply chain management, trade compliance, purchasing, trade and disruption management, global business and logistics. For more information, go to www.bluetigerintl.com. Tom can be reached directly at [email protected]. The post The Impact of Trade and Tariffs on the Aftermarket appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

NTN, the parent company of BCA Bearings, is proud to announce the launch of BCA’s 2024 Endless Summer promotion. During the promotion, BCA’s warehouse distributor customers can earn BCA-branded, premium merchandise with orders of BCA wheel hub assemblies, bearings and seals. “We are thrilled to announce the BCA Endless Summer promotion” said Patrick Cronin, Marketing Manager, Automotive Aftermarket. “The Endless Summer theme evokes a relaxed and carefree feeling that we all strive to achieve; the same carefree feeling we want associated with using our premium parts. We are looking forward to summer and another great promotion.” BCA’s Endless Summer promotion enables distributor customers to earn tiered packages of BCA branded merchandise with qualifying orders, which they can then use to conduct their own localized promotions. This allows the BCA-branded merchandise to reach every level of the distribution channel, from the parts professionals and service advisors who recommend BCA products to the technicians that install them. The Endless Summer theme is meant to embody the warm summer feeling you wish would never end, and the promo items were selected to complement the theme and keep summer going long after Labor Day has come and gone. A floating stress relief keychain, waterproof phone pouch and backpack keep your valuables high and dry during a day at the beach. A misting water bottle and insulated picnic basket keep you and your snacks cool as the classic triangle kite drifts above in the summer breeze. Get out of the sun with the pop up shelter as you relax on the beach lounge pad, and then fire up the mini tabletop fire pit to roast marshmallows for smores. Now you’re living the Endless Summer with BCA. BCA’s 2024 Endless Summer promotion runs from May 1 through June 30, 2024. For participation details, please contact a BCA Sales Representative or Customer Relations Advocate. The post BCA Bearings Unveils 2024 Endless Summer Promotion appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Automotive technology is funny. It always seems so new when we’re forced to catch up with it and weave it into our everyday routine. Then we find out it’s been around much longer than we realize. We didn’t worry about it until suddenly, some form of it was on almost every vehicle on the road. Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS), is one of those technologies, and like it or not, it’s time to jump on the ADAS bandwagon. Luckily, because it’s not as new as it seems, the tool and equipment technology to help us service these systems is coming of age. In other words, we’re no longer fighting through the growing pains of it. It’s here. It works, and it works well. The acronym is the newest part of all of it, and you might be surprised you’re already familiar with some of it. The purpose of ADAS, simply put, is to help drivers operate vehicles on a safer level, and its early roots were the development of antilock braking systems. Of course, today it’s much more complex with systems like blind spot monitoring, adaptive cruise control and automatic emergency braking, but nonetheless it’s all there for the same reason. ADAS are categorized into levels, determined by the amount of automation for any given system. Understanding them not only helps explain certain aspects to your customer, but it can help you as a technician to understand the various aspects and need for calibration. Level 0: No Driving Automation These systems don’t control the vehicle in any way, they only provide information or situational assistance to the driver. Examples are blind spot warnings, forward collision warnings, lane departure warnings and antilock braking systems. Level 1: Driver Assistance These systems have the ability to control a single function of the vehicle, for example, adaptive cruise control and lane keep assist, but the driver is responsible for the main task of driving and braking, and these systems can be switched off by the driver. Level 2: Partial Driving Automation At this level, ADAS can control multiple functions, for example lane keep assist and adaptive cruise control, which employs both lateral and longitudinal control at the same time. The vehicle is able to perform both functions on its own, but with the intent that the driver is monitoring them at all times. The driver must touch the steering wheel at regular intervals, so the system recognizes it is being monitored. Level 2 ADAS allows for temporary “hands free” driving, and this is the highest level legal for vehicles in the U.S. Level 3: Conditional Driving Automation These systems can control most of the functions of a car, and the vehicle can temporarily take over the task of driving, without regular monitoring from the driver. The driver must be able to take over control and respond to warnings from the system. There are currently no vehicles in the U.S. that are available at this level. Level 4: High Driving Automation Level four is defined as complete autonomy under certain conditions. The driver is no longer required to be ready to intervene at any time and could for example, even sleep with level 4 ADAS. This level is, however, linked to very specific conditions such as driving on a defined route or in a parking garage. Level 5: Full Driving Automation These vehicles will have the ability to drive anywhere, under any conditions with no input from a “driver.” These vehicles would not require a steering wheel, or for that matter, an accelerator or brake pedal. In these vehicles, we are no longer drivers. We are just passengers. Coming of Age The apprehension of ADAS repair can be compared to any new technology where we “fight” with the equipment available to us as it catches up with the technology. For ADAS, the equipment has come of age. It’s no longer a dealer-only proposition. Technicians and independent shops can own the necessary equipment to successfully repair and calibrate ADAS systems. The scan tool technology and software is well-refined for ADAS diagnosis and repair, just as it is for all other vehicle systems. Equipment and tool manufacturers have been focused on making this repair technology viable for independent shops, and they’ve succeeded in their efforts. The calibration area and required space that seemed as if it would be the biggest factor affecting small shops, is now hardly a factor with lifts that are designed to maximize the functionality of individual bays, and scan tool technology that has advanced to maximize the use of limited space whenever possible. ADAS Servicing When it comes to servicing ADAS, the most important concept to remember is that ADAS cameras and radar sensors do not have moving parts inside. Cameras are set at the factory for focus and field of view. Radar sensors have a very specific beam pattern that can’t be changed. A calibration procedure typically uses a target with a specific pattern, shape or even thickness. The target is set at a specific distance, angle and orientation from a measured point on the vehicle. The vehicle knows what the target or fixture should look or sound like because it was programmed into the system at the factory. The scan tool activates this “memory,” so it can compare and possibly adjust. The majority of forward-facing cameras can’t mechanically change their point of view. The focus and field of view are set at the factory, and there are typically no moving parts. For example, no motors are moving the zoom or the angle of the camera. Instead, corrections are made with software that can “crop” in on the correct field of view and the vehicle’s centerline. Think of the camera lens as a wide-angle, but the software uses it as a telephoto. The same is true for blind-spot and rearview cameras. So, when you are calibrating the camera system, you are calibrating what area of the image the camera pays attention to. This prevents a roadside sign or a car in the next lane from becoming classified as an obstacle. Radar sensors emit radio waves that bounce off of objects and are received by the sensor. These types of sensors can detect objects and vehicles no matter the lighting conditions. There are two types of radar: long-range and mid-range. Long-range sensors are used to measure the presence, distance and even speed in a narrow field of view. This type of radar is called millimeter-wave radar by some manufacturers. Long-range sensors can measure up to 600 feet in front of the vehicle. Mid-range can detect objects 200 feet from the vehicle. But mid-range radar sensors only measure objects that are in near proximity to the vehicle. These radar sensors can be used for blind spot and cross-traffic detection. Calibration of radar sensors typically involves adjusting their position. Long-range sensors generally are mounted above or below the front bumper. Mid-range sensors can be mounted behind bumper covers, roof pillars and the corners of the vehicle. The position of a long-range radar sensor can be moved using adjustment screws behind the sensor to adjust direction and elevation. This type of adjustment is typically required if the sensor has been replaced or disturbed. Ultrasonic sensors have been on vehicles for more than 20 years. These are the small, round sensors mounted in the rear or front bumper of some vehicles. Ultrasonic sensors can detect objects that are typically within 10 feet from the vehicle. They send out soundwaves of a specific frequency that bounce off objects. The greater the return, the closer the object. These are very simple sensors that are used in backup monitor systems and blind-spot detection. Ultrasonic sensors have a very wide angle of detection and low resolution. As a result, ultrasonic sensors don’t need calibration on most vehicles. The ADAS module assumes that the target is positioned correctly when the scan tool initiates the calibration mode. The system trusts that you took the time to set up the targets with some degree of accuracy. It compares the factory settings to the actual values. It uses this information to make adjustments. If the required adjustment is outside of the parameters, a mechanical adjustment to the sensor will then have to be made to the mount or adjusters, if you are lucky. When you set up a target or fixture for a camera or radar calibration, the position and distance from the vehicle is critical to the performance and operation of the system. If the target or fixture is even a few millimeters off in position, it can severely affect system operation, as the camera or radar can end up “looking” at the wrong spot by many feet or meters. As with any technology, servicing it is half equipment and half experience. The equipment is here. The experience starts when you do. The post ADAS: Coming of Age appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

or our commercial customers, price and quality are two of the most important considerations when purchasing parts from you (and your competitors). The third is availability, but at least we have some control over what gets stocked in our stores. Barring supply chain issues and material shortages, keeping the right mix of parts available is up to our buyers and inventory specialists. Unless your store’s pricing strategy is out of line with the competition, pricing (and quality) complaints fall squarely on the vendor/manufacturer. This is not to say that if you are experiencing price, quality, or availability issues with a current vendor that you shouldn’t already be looking for alternate sourcing for the affected SKUs or product lines. During the latest UAW strike, GM and Stellantis parts warehouses were crippled by walkouts, leaving their dealer networks scrambling to provide parts for their customers. Many dealerships were forced to bolster their inventories with quality aftermarket-equivalent products just to keep work flowing through their service departments. For the aftermarket, this was a perfect storm of opportunity. There was less competition from the local dealership in terms of parts sales, and those same dealers were calling on aftermarket suppliers more often for parts they could not readily obtain through their OEM channels. Due to the perception that OE parts are the best option for their vehicle brand (and a need to provide the same level of service, warranty coverage, and quality) these requests were often for premium product lines. Dealerships are generally unwilling to risk their reputation by installing bargain-basement parts, and the expectation that dealership parts and service will carry a premium price tag silences many objections well ahead of the sale. Independent shops specializing in repair or resale of luxury and performance brands also enjoy a more quality-conscious clientele willing to pay a premium for their services. There is, however, a subset of dealerships (and some general repair shops) for whom price trumps all other considerations. Your local “buy-here-pay-here” used car lot might come to mind, reconditioning and “flipping” (usually lower-end) auction vehicles, while offering very limited warranty terms. For this market, requests will usually gravitate toward the “least expensive” parts option. Even the most quality-conscious shops sometimes need to hit a “price-point” to stay competitive, and we all have that DIY customer who just wants “the cheapest thing that fits” because they are “trading it in soon” (even though they’ve been telling you that each time they’ve been in for the last three years!). In an effort to accommodate all types of customer needs, we are likely to offer multiple lines for most of our “commodity” parts. Filters, brakes, chassis parts, belts, lighting, wipers, and fluids are some of the most common categories in which we offer diverse price and quality options. This isn’t necessarily an issue of price versus quality, but rather comparing the value realized from an item’s price and its quality. For maintenance items like filters, an installer might have a “menu” pricing schedule for oil changes, air and cabin filters, and wiper blades. These services generally include labor at no “additional” cost, and the parts already have a recommended service interval. Selling at a fixed price can be tricky when the costs are variable, so shops often use value-line parts for these services. If the shop advertises “any air filter $49.95 installed,” you can bet they will choose your $12 store brand filter over the $25 premium filter whenever they can! These parts will likely provide sufficient service life, and the cost savings to the shop offsets some of the lost labor revenue. On our side of the counter, oil is usually marketed as a loss leader priced to get customers through the front door. Shops treat oil changes the same way, as an opportunity to get the vehicle in the shop to upsell more profitable work. We would never knowingly offer a product that doesn’t meet some sort of minimum quality standards, nor would we recommend a product that won’t meet a customer’s (reasonable) expectations. The use of “features and benefits” as a selling tool helps classify the customer’s needs, explains the differences in pricing and quality, and minimizes disappointment by customers who expected premium performance and extended service life from the bare-bones product they selected based on price alone. The post Minding Your P’s And Q’s appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Your customers may be using air tools in a variety of circumstances for an even wider variety of jobs. Here’s how to help them understand why they need to buy the right fitting for the application. View Full Diagram Here There are multiple different sizes and styles, and what one shop uses may not be the same as another. The size and style affect the volume of air they can deliver, a critical point because air tools require a specific pressure and volume for proper operation, and restrictive fittings can limit their performance. Here’s a look at the most common sizes and styles found in most automotive shops, and how you can identify them. For more ToolIntel training, visit TechShop. The post Tool Intel – Understanding Air Tool Fittings and Couplers appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The digital edition of Counterman’s April 2024 issue, part of AMN/Counterman magazine, is available for viewing on the Counterman website. The April issue features tech articles on rotating electrical assemblies and components; explaining the importance of a coolant flush; timing chains; and understanding the key differences between OHV, SOHC and DOHC valvetrains. The issue also features Tom Dayton’s popular “Counter View,” focusing on minding your Ps and Qs (price and quality). To view the April 2024 digital edition of Counterman, click here. Or, browse back issues in the Counterman archive. The post Read the April Digital Edition of Counterman appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

The ASE Education Foundation, International Truck and IC Bus have partnered to provide what they said is a unique training opportunity for 10 outstanding instructors from ASE-accredited post-secondary medium/heavy truck training programs. The following instructors were chosen to attend a five-day, hands-on training session at the Navistar OEM state-of-the-art training center in Woodridge, Illinois, and received a $1,000 scholarship to underwrite travel expenses. Nathan Berry, University of Alaska Anchorage Wayne Carpenter, Auto/Diesel Institute of Michigan Brad Conklin, Pennsylvania College of Technology Justin Conway, Lehigh Career and Technical Institute Robbie Lindhorst, Southeastern Illinois College Shannon McCarty, Ashland Community and Technical College Chad Parsons, Laramie County Community College Joe Valora, Elizabethtown Community and Technical College Brad Wake, Francis Tuttle Tech Center Lane Yarbrough, East Mississippi Community College To be eligible for the scholarships, instructors had to be nominated by their supervisors and submit an application, explaining how their program and students would benefit and why they should be selected. Representatives from the ASE Education Foundation, International Truck and IC Bus reviewed the submissions and selected the 10 winners whose programs would benefit the most from attending the hands-on training. The post ASE Education Foundation Partners on 10 Training Scholarships appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

For Mann and Hummel’s Key Account Manager for O’Reilly Auto Parts Jennifer Gibson, life is about balance. Balance between two different companies, and balance between work and home. Now, after being with her company for more than 16 years, she is helping usher in a new generation of female leadership in what she acknowledges is a male-dominated industry. “I am in the early stages of being a mentor to other young women in my company, and I want to make sure I give them the opportunity to grow and give them the best advice possible. And, I realize as a mentor that I’m paving the way now,” Gibson said. The mother of four children has celebrated her career successes, while also prioritizing family milestones. “The biggest legacy I will leave behind are my children,” Gibson said. “I’ve made it very clear to them that my family comes first in life. And, fortunately, they’ve always supported that. You’ve got to find a company that supports family and allows you to be there on those important times or important events within your family.” Gibson also reveals some of her keys to success and keeping a positive relationship between the company she works with and the one she works alongside. “Communication is key, and [in] any relationship that you have, it doesn’t matter if it’s with your spouse or with your boss or with your customer or your key contact person, communication is key. And, the way you communicate is even more important,” Gibson affirmed. Episode Overview When Gibson’s passion for the automotive industry began (0:46); Paving the way for the next generation of women in the aftermarket (2:15); Discussing the process and value of mentorship (4:10); Gibson discusses the importance of parenthood in her life (5:35); Knowing when. you’ve found a work/family life balance (6:20); Maintaining balance between two companies (8:15); What Gibson would like to see in the future of the aftermarket for women (11:39). The post From Mentorship to Motherhood With Jennifer Gibson appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

Now powered by a higher-capacity rechargeable battery, the LITESTIX by BendPak portable LED work light provides up to seven hours of continuous use on one charge. The new LITESTIX LS36SMDX model is designed to train task lighting wherever it’s needed without cords getting in the way. The light boosts visibility where general lighting isn’t strong enough, such as inside engine compartments, vehicle interiors, and underneath lifts, as well as when work is under way at night. Upgrading the rechargeable lithium battery from 1800 mAH (milliampere-hour) to 2600 mAh, means the latest LITESTIX model can deliver another full hour of performance. The work light boasts 36 LED bulbs that together generate 1,200 lumens of bright white light. Each lamp also features high and low brightness settings. Thanks to its high-efficiency LEDs, LITESTIX uses less energy and stays cool, making it easy to move around a vehicle without worrying about getting burnt. Designed for a long life of heavy-duty use, each LITESTIX is encased in an impact-resistant polycarbonate housing. Other key features are an innovative telescoping holder and magnetic swivel mounts that let you put it where you need it. LITESTIX also solves the century-old problem of how to sit a shop light snugly on a vehicle’s hood, roof, or other points on the body. Placement on the vehicle is often necessary to get the best visibility, but traditional lamps roll off. To accomplish this feat, LITESTIX has dual 90-degree swiveling handles equipped with magnetic ends that enable mounting the light tube on any flat or off-angle metallic surface. The lamp’s all-steel telescoping cradle frame can extend from 49.5˝ to 79.75˝ in length and can secure to the underside of a vehicle hood, for example, with the help of grabbing hooks attached at both ends of the frame. When used without the cradle frame, LITESTIX can be hung using recessed hooks inside the handles that twist out as needed. To order or learn more about the next generation of LITESTIX, visit bendpak.com/car-lifts/accessories/litestix-ls36smdx or call (800) 253-2363. The post LITESTIX Work Light by BendPak Now Lasts Longer appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

JNPSoft OptiCat, a provider of solutions to support aftermarket auto part suppliers with the mapping, maintenance, development, validation and publishing of their catalog data in industry standards ACES® and PIES, has launched DataLive, an innovative tool that transforms the way manufacturers manage their product data. With DataLive, manufacturers can now automatically track when their products reach a go live state on the various distribution sell platforms. “As part of our commitment to pioneering new and effective products for our customers, we are thrilled to launch DataLive to the Aftermarket Industry”, said David Williams, CEO of JNPSoft OptiCat. “DataLive gives our partners the ability to strategically follow up with distributors and retailers, perform reviews and accurately forecast supply chain management.” “DataLive was designed to determine why sales may not be happening as projected,” said Bryan Thueson, COO JNPSoft OptiCat. “DataLive has flexible packages based on search volume making it an effective tool to help you sell more parts”. DataLive aims to automate a process that is currently manual, saving manufacturers time and allowing them to allocate valuable resources to other critical operations. For more information about DataLive visit JNPSoft OptiCat. The post JNPSoft OptiCat Unveils DataLive Product Tracking Tool appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

In this aftermarketNews Executive Interview, Johannes Crepon, PDM Automotive Co-Founder & CEO, discusses the company’s platform, how it helps parts suppliers keep their product data up to date, how the use of AI technology makes e-commerce easier for suppliers and distributors, what the company has planned for this year, and more. aftermarketNews: PDM Automotive provides commerce software for auto parts suppliers, manufacturers, resellers and distributors. Give us a brief overview of how aftermarket companies have found partnering with PDM most beneficial. Johannes Crepon: The genesis of PDM Automotive was rooted in my own experiences and challenges as the founder of Velocity Automotive, an ecommerce company that sells parts for American cars throughout Europe. At Velocity, we faced difficulties connecting with suppliers, managing product data, and ensuring brand visibility. Recognizing these industry-wide issues, I started PDM Automotive to increase efficiency in the automotive aftermarket through seamless connectivity between suppliers and retailers. The PDM Automotive platform bridges the gap between auto parts suppliers, manufacturers, resellers and distributors. Manufacturers gain unprecedented transparency into where and how their brands are sold, enabling effective brand management and strategic decision-making. Resellers benefit from expedited access to up-to-date product data, reducing hurdles in acquiring and maintaining catalogs and allowing for agility in responding to market trends. At its core, PDM Automotive fosters connections and streamlines information flow across the automotive aftermarket. By providing a platform that enhances transparency for manufacturers and accessibility for resellers, we’re creating an ecosystem that elevates the entire industry. AMN: One of the hallmarks of PDM’s technology is allowing for a “seamless exchange of accurate and timely content across every facet of the automotive industry.” Tell us how PDM assists parts suppliers in keeping their product data up to date. How can the company help suppliers better adhere to ACES & PIES standards? Crepon: While ACES & PIES has become the most relevant data standard in the Americas, its implementation across the industry has not been without challenges. The standard itself, although comprehensive, does not fully address the intricacies of data exchange, with many resellers interpreting and implementing the standard differently, leading to a fragmented array of data requirements. Recognizing these challenges, our platform goes beyond merely supporting ACES & PIES standards; we enhance the standards with our proprietary connectors and algorithms, tailoring product data to meet the needs of every receiver. Suppliers can manage their data from a centralized platform, and we tailor this data to comply with the diverse interpretations and requirements of resellers across the industry. This process saves significant time and resources for suppliers and ensures that their product information is accurate, consistent, and easily accessible by resellers and end-users alike. Our technology “puts ACES & PIES on steroids,” ensuring suppliers’ data is always optimized for every channel, leading to a more efficient supply chain, increased product visibility, and a better customer experience. is a testament to our commitment to innovation and efficiency in the automotive aftermarket. Our ongoing development of proprietary connectors and algorithms signifies PDM’s dedication to continuous improvement. As the industry evolves, so do the standards and requirements for data exchange. PDM is at the forefront of these changes, ensuring our partners have the tools and support necessary to navigate the dynamic automotive aftermarket effectively. AMN: PDM allows brands to sell parts anywhere—from Amazon to national retailers and local parts suppliers. How is the company creating sales opportunities for brands while minimizing channel conflict? Crepon: Historically, brands struggled with over-distribution, diluting the brand image and causing inconsistent product presentation due to the lack of a cohesive strategy regarding distribution and authorized reselling partners. The rise of online marketplaces has further complicated this scenario, making it imperative for brands to actively manage how their products are represented across all channels. PDM addresses these challenges by offering a platform that guarantees high-quality listings on marketplaces like Amazon, eBay, and Walmart, while adhering to Minimum Advertised Price (MAP) policies. This strategic approach allows brands to protect their interests across all channels, including traditional channels, which are often jeopardized by price dumping on online marketplaces. By ensuring that products listed on these platforms are presented in a manner that reflects the brand’s standards and pricing policies, PDM helps maintain the integrity of the brand across the digital landscape. Additionally, our platform gives brands tools to actively manage their distribution, image, and product presentation, particularly important as consumer preference shifts towards online shopping. This allows brands to maintain control over their narrative and pricing. With PDM’s technology, brands can navigate the complexities of modern retail, ensuring that their products are distributed in a way that supports their overall sales strategy while protecting the channels most valuable to them. This holistic approach to channel management is vital in today’s market, where visibility across a multitude of platforms is not just an advantage but a necessity. AMN: The company uses AI to generate SEO titles, descriptions and marketing copy for products based on keywords and inputs in just seconds. In what other ways is PDM looking to use AI technology to make e-commerce easier for suppliers and distributors? Crepon: While our use of AI to generate SEO-optimized titles, descriptions, and marketing copy in mere seconds showcases our commitment to leveraging technology for efficiency, it’s just the tip of the iceberg regarding our AI applications. Our approach to AI technology is both strategic and discerning. Recognizing that AI’s strengths lie in its ability to process and optimize large sets of data quickly, we are mindful of its limitations, particularly when it comes to the precision required in our core data set—the richest automotive parts catalog in the industry. Accuracy is paramount, and while AI offers many opportunities, it is not inherently accurate. This understanding shapes how we integrate AI into our operations, ensuring that the reliability and accuracy of our core data are never compromised. One key area where we leverage AI is in the normalization of complex, non-structured data that has accumulated in the industry over the last century. This task, daunting for human teams due to the sheer volume and variability of the data, is where AI shines. Our engineering team utilizes AI algorithms to sift through and organize this data into a coherent, structured format. This normalization process improves the quality of our catalog and enhances the efficiency and accuracy of data management for our customers. Once we have perfected the data within the PDM catalog, we use AI to optimize it for specific channels. This optimization process involves adjusting product data to meet the unique requirements and standards of various e-commerce platforms, ensuring accurate presentations of our customers’ products, regardless of where they are sold. In doing this, we enable suppliers and distributors to maximize their online presence and sales potential across multiple channels. We’re exploring other ways to integrate AI into our solutions to further simplify and enhance e-commerce operations. These include predictive analytics for demand forecasting, AI-driven recommendations for inventory management and automated customer service solutions to improve buyer engagement and satisfaction. AMN: PDM was founded in 2017, and since it has grown exponentially. What does the company have in store for 2024? What can we expect from PDM in the next five years? Crepon: In 2024, we’re set to expand our reach and capabilities. Our recent investment in upgrading our system’s underlying infrastructure has positioned us to take full advantage of the opportunities that lie ahead. This strategic enhancement ensures our platform is scalable, resilient and capable of supporting our future ambitions. Our strategic priorities include developing more connectors, forging new partnerships, and expanding our catalog. Developing more connectors will broaden the scope of our network, making it easier for our customers to reach new markets and ensure accurate and up-to-date product information flows efficiently between manufacturers, suppliers, distributors, and retailers. We will add more partnerships; collaborating with other industry leaders and innovators is essential for driving collective progress and delivering comprehensive solutions to our clients. Another key focus is the ongoing expansion of our catalog. Our goal is to offer the industry’s most comprehensive and detailed automotive parts catalog, serving as the single source for all our clients’ data needs. This growing catalog, enriched with accurate and detailed product information, will empower our clients to make informed decisions and optimize their operations like before. Our vision for the next five years is to remain at the forefront of technology adoption in the industry, constantly exploring new ways to leverage technology to solve the unique challenges of our customers. Whether it’s through AI, machine learning, or other emerging technologies, our focus will be on providing solutions that make e-commerce easier, more efficient, and more profitable for suppliers and distributors. AMN: What do you want the automotive aftermarket to know about PDM Automotive? Crepon: PDM Automotive is not just about managing product data; it’s about increasing our customer’s market share in a $300 billion industry. While we are widely recognized for our Product Information Management (PIM) capabilities, our vision extends beyond managing rich catalog data; it includes a far-reaching ambition to connect every parts manufacturer with every buyer who needs or wants a part. Our vision to connect every parts manufacturer with every buyer drives every innovation and decision at PDM Automotive. We aim to streamline buying and selling auto parts by facilitating connections and creating a more integrated and cohesive industry ecosystem. We are constantly exploring new technologies, developing new solutions, and forging strategic partnerships to enhance our platform’s ability to connect manufacturers and buyers in the most effective and meaningful ways possible. We believe that achieving this goal will unlock the full potential of the aftermarket, creating opportunities for growth, innovation, and success for everyone. We invite you to join us on this journey, as we work to realize a future where every part finds its place effortlessly, benefiting manufacturers, buyers and the automotive community. Read more AMN Executive Interviews here. The post AI Technology Puts ACES and PIES on ‘Steroids’ appeared first on Counterman Magazine. View the full article

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