Você está na página 1de 68

SONNAX

LINE PRESSURE BOOSTER KITS

Peace of mind for everyday


customers pushing vehicles to the limit
Simple, effective parts install with no special tools required
Ideal for heavy-duty and modified vehicles as well as hard-working daily drivers
Improved shift feel and durability for fewer comebacks and complaints

Give your next rebuild a boost, ask your distributor for a Sonnax booster kit!

Ford GM Toyota
4R100, E4OD 4R100-LB1 200-4R, 4L60 700R4-LB1 4L60-E, 4L65-E, 4L70-E NEW A750E/F, A760E/F/H, A761E,
(Late-Style Pump) 4L60E-LB2 A960E/F, AB60E/F A750-LB1
4R70E, 4R70W, 4R75E, 4R75W, 350, 350C 350-LB1
AODE 4R70W-LB1 4L80-E, 4L85-E 4L80E-LB1
400 400-LB1
5R55S, 5R55W 5R55WS-LB1 4T65-E 4T65E-LB1
4L60-E, 4L65-E, 4L70-E
(Early-Style Pump) 4L60E-LB1 6L45, 6L50, 6L80, 6L90
6L80-LB1 Pressure Regulator Large Ratio Boost
Spring Assembly

NEW Electronic Booster Kit


45/545/65/66/68RFE RFE-LB1
Redesigned kit now works in gas and diesel Chrysler RFE units and includes PR spring
to prevent trouble codes.

PERFORMANCE
Visit www.sonnax.com for details. 800-843-2600 802-463-9722 Sonnax is an Employee-Owned Company

December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 502 11/29/16 12:48 PM


GEARS FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

DECEMBER 2016
PHONE (805) 604-2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Publisher Dennis Madden


Managing Editor Rodger Bland
Technical Director Lance Wiggins
Advertising Frank Pasley STREET SMART: FUN WITH TRANSMISSIONS: If You Dont, Who Will?
Senior Designer Jeanette Troub A Logical Approach to Transmissions 101: Page 41
Graphic Artist Aurelio Pea Solenoid Circuit Testing Understanding Valve Types
Page 14 Page 30
Contributing Editors:

SPECIAL INTEREST & TECHNICAL


Steve Bodofsky Jim Cathcart
Alex Goldfayn Frank Pasley
Scott Shotton Scottie South
Thom Tschetter
4 THE WORD ON THE STREET:
ATRA Technical Staff: The Mystery Behind Nissan/Jatco CVT Pulleys
Rolando (Rolly) Alvarez Bill Brayton by Mike Souza
Mike Brown Keith Clark
David Chalker Rob Faucett 14 STREET SMART:
Pete Huscher Mike Souza A Logical Approach to Solenoid Circuit Testing
Shaun Velasquez Jarad Warren by Mike Brown
Director of Event Services Vanessa Velasquez 22 Why a Graphing Meter Makes
Diagnosing Intermittent Electrical Problems Easier
The views expressed in this publication should not necessarily be interpreted Rob Faucett
as the official policy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA).
24 Nail Down Those Troublesome Ford Ignition Coils
Publication of product information or any advertising does not imply recommenda-
tion by ATRA.
by Scott Shotton
GEARS , a publication of ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, 30 FUN WITH TRANSMISSIONS:
is published for the betterment of the transmission industry and is distributed Transmissions 101: Understanding Valve Types
ten times per year. No part of this issue may be reproduced without prior written by Bill Brayton
permission of the publisher. GEARS is distributed to members of the transmis-
sion industry in the United States, Canada, ATRA Members in Mexico & Europe, 36 WORDS OF WISDOM: Nothings More Important than Listening
and related automotive industry firms and individually. Send changes of address by Scottie South
to GEARS in care of ATRA. Subscriptions are available by contacting GEARS in
care of ATRA. 38 UP YOUR BUSINESS: When Do You End a Warranty?
Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full liability for all content of adver- by Thom Tschetter
tisements printed and also assume full responsibility for any claims arising there-
from against the publisher. The publisher reserves the unqualified right to reject any
41 If You Dont, Who Will?
advertising copy as it deems appropriate, with or without cause. by Jim Cathcart
GEARS is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard 42 THE REVENUE GROWTH HABIT: Thoughts for the New Year
to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding the publisher by Alex Goldfayn
is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional service. If legal
advice or other expert assistance, is required, the services of a competent profes- 44 SHOP PROFILE:
sional person should be sought from a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted Chips Transmissions Builds Success by Knowing Who Their Customers Are
by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers. by Steve Bodofsky
GEARS also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. GEARS
considers all articles for publication that contribute positively to the welfare of the 48 Expo Golf 2016 Oh What a Day!
transmission industry, and reserves the right to edit all articles it publishes. If you by Frank Pasley
would like to submit an article to GEARS, include background information about
the author and a telephone number where he/she may be reached. If you want 50 Paris Is for Expo!
submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. Gears Staff

Editorial and Business Offices

DEPARTMENTS
2400 Latigo Avenue,
Oxnard CA 93030
Phone (805) 604-2000
Fax (805) 604-2006
www.gearsmagazine.com 2 FROM THE TECH DIRECTOR:
www.atra.com
Education to Industry or
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GEARS, P.O. Box 16118, Educating the Industry?
North Hollywood, CA 91615-6118 by Lance Wiggins
Publications Mail Agreement No. 40031403
Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: 54 POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS Featured on the cover:
Station A, PO Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5
Email: gears@atra.com 59 SHOPPERS AND CLASSIFIED Chips Transmissions
in Sevierville, Tennessee
Issue #210 Printed in U.S.A. Copyright ATRA 2016 64 LIST OF ADVERTISERS Read their story on Page 44

1TOC-1216.indd 2 11/29/16 12:09 PM


FROM THE TECH DIRECTOR

by Lance Wiggins
members.atra.com

T
he 2016 ATRA Powertrain eighteen years old. We asked several was profound. He has a mentor whos
Expo hosted by GEARS and questions, such as, how are we going helping him and instructing him in
ATRA is over! It was a terrific to get todays young people into our essence, educating him.
event, and we all learned a lot about industry? What are we going to teach More often than not, youre too
how we think about one another. them? What transmissions are we busy to help the young guy in the
My message to you today is simple: going to use? shop. You just need to remember you
Change the way you think and start The questions kept coming about were once that young guy, and some-
educating yourself. I held a weeklong the problems that arise, the issues one helped you. Now its your turn
class on education to the industry. schools face, and so on. It got to the to reciprocate.
Simply put, everywhere I went, I was point where, with all the downsides, it Education to Industry and Edu-
teaching a class. became difficult to see the upside. cating the Industry are one in the
Lets step back for a second so you One of the instructors told us same. We have to learn to understand
can get the whole story. It started about about a really good shop in his area todays young people, and learn how to
four years ago with a revamp of our that had a turnover and wanted to teach them.
testing and certification programs. We hire some techs, so he sent over his And ATRAs here to help. Were
completely changed these programs, best students. They didnt make it; working on a new program to provide
from head to toe. they failed! online training in simple, easy-to-
The changes were well received, Why? For obvious reasons, such follow modules, targeted directly to
but only a very small percentage of as poor production and lack of expe- young folks entering the industry.
Member technicians have earned their rience. I asked, Did you tell them Called the ATRA Virtual Training
certifications. Some say, If it requires they were going to fail? Did you let Solutions (VTS), the program will
participation, itll fail. Others say, them know there was no way of win- help you train your new hires, and help
I dont need to pass a test to work on ning? Did you tell the shop that these make them successful as they enter the
transmissions. Fair enough, but how students are good, but they arent what transmission industry.
are you planning to educate the new youre looking for? If not, you set them The program is still a few months
technicians coming into our industry? up for failure and thats another away were hoping to launch a
The simple truth is, you cant reason we dont have new guys coming preliminary version by the middle
stop working to train them. So we into the industry. of next year but until then, my
began to consider a new mentorship/ Our industry has so much to offer advice to you is to give back what
internship thought process. This from the standpoint of a career; we you received.
raised some interesting questions, need to be more vigilant in making If you have the opportunity to hire
some of which we simply couldnt sure that we, as an industry, are doing someone whos fresh out of school, off
answer. So we did the next best thing: everything possible to make that the street, or a kid that delivers pizza
We invited a bunch of young people happen. I asked the young man, Tyler, to your shop but is really excited about
who are interested in our industry and why he chose this industry. Honestly, what you do, take the plunge! Take
some working instructors to join us why is an eighteen-year-old at a them under your wing and share your
at Expo. seminar in Las Vegas? His answer? I knowledge and experience. Introduce
It was called the Education to like working on cars. them to our industry and mold them
Industry Summit, although it could just Gee, that sounds familiar. I bet into a transmission specialist.
as easily been called Educating the right now youre thinking, Thats This is your opportunity to make
Industry Summit. There were about what I said. I know its what Ive a difference to a young person and to
25 attendees: shop owners, instructors, said and, to this day, it holds true. our industry. Share what you know.
and one new tech, Tyler, who was But there was something else and it

2 GEARS December 2016

1fm tech dir 1216.indd 2 11/29/16 12:11 PM


Please hold...

The trannys in 60 pieces. The cars taking up a bay.


You need to speak to their engineering guy.
Good luck with that... A question about kit availability?
At Precision International weve been making sure all the parts Call our sales staff at 1-800-872-6649 ext. 3008.
you need are in the kit all the time for over forty years. Plus, At Precision International when you need support, youll
many of our kits come with easy to understand installation get prompt attention, not a voice prompt from the people
tips and instructions. And our Precision app gives you instant who helped us become the industry leader in transmission
access to our website which is loaded with helpful information kit customer service.
and how to videos. Whatever you need, were ready to help and we thank you
But if you prefer to speak to a real person, were here for you! for your loyalty.
Have an engineering or application question?
Call Vin Soviero, at 1-800-872-6649 ext. 3022.

Weve put kit specific QR Codes


in our packaging to help you
on the job. Check out the info
14 Todd Court Extension, Yaphank, NY 11980
for our FORD AODE Kit now!
(631) 567-2000 Fax (631) 567-2640 Toll Free: 1-800-872-6649
E-mail: sales@transmissionkits.com
www.transmissionkits.com

Precision is proud to be a recipient of a GM Supplier of the Year Award for 2014 and 2015

December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 3 11/29/16 12:48 PM


THE WORD ON THE STREET

by Mike Souza
members.atra.com

T
heres always a bit of mystery the
first time you work on a Jatco CVT
about how to take the pulleys apart.
Everyones heard about the very strong
spring in one of the pulleys, and how and
you have to be careful getting it apart to
avoid getting hurt or damaging the pulleys
or other parts.
In last months issue of
GEARS, we discussed how to
remove and replace the belt or
chain from these pulleys. We also
showed how you can use a simple and
inexpensive two-jaw puller on just
about any CVT to make it easier
to disassemble these pulleys.
You can use the same tool to
disassemble almost any CVT
pulleys you work on, Nissan
or otherwise, because the puller
jaws gripping edge wont damage the
RE0F09A/B surface of the pulley sheath.
In this article, well cover some Jatco
pulley comparisons and precautions, and
youll learn how to disassemble CVT
pulleys safely.
First, lets look at the secondary
pulleys. The secondary pulley is the one

4 GEARS December 2016

1mikesouza1216.indd 4 11/29/16 12:18 PM


Figure 1

that always has a strong return


spring. There are some CVTs
those used behind larger engines
where the primary pulley also
has a spring, although it usually
isnt as strong as the one behind
the secondary pulley.
The secondary pulleys seem
very similar from model to model
(figure 1). The pulleys primar-
ily come apart the same way, but
there are some precautions you
need to take on certain models.
The example used in this article
is the secondary pulley in the
RE0F09B.
First, remove the retainer nut.
This is a left-hand threaded nut
with no identification marks. Use
the two-jaw puller to remove the
output and park gear (figure 2).
This is only one method; obvious-
ly you can use any combination
of tools with a gear puller to per-
form this part of the disassembly
procedure. The reason were us-
ing the RE0F09B for an example
is theres one difference on this

Figure 2

GEARS December 2016 5

1mikesouza1216.indd 5 11/29/16 12:18 PM


The Mystery Behind Nissan/Jatco CVT Pulleys

Figure 3

model that isnt on other models: It has retainer shell are held in place by the the park gear onto the secondary shaft
two half-moon shaped retainers under two half-moon retainers located un- and, by hand, thread the retainer nut
a retainer shell (figure 3). der the shell. Youll need to remove back on.
With the retainer nut and park the snap ring to lift the retainer shell With the two-jaw puller installed
gear removed, you may think its time off first to access the two half-moon on the outer edge of the upper sheath,
to begin pulling the apply piston and retainers (figure 3). pull up on the upper sheath until the
sheath off the shaft. The sheath will Now you can remove the apply return spring collapses against the ap-
start to move and then stop when the piston, which is press fit onto the shaft, ply piston. The apply piston will jump
return spring is completely collapsed. and upper sheath (floating) off the up and hit the park gear (figure 4). Itll
At this point the apply piston and secondary pulley shaft. Then place be quite a pop due to the strong spring.

Figure 4

6 GEARS December 2016

1mikesouza1216.indd 6 11/29/16 12:18 PM


December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 7 11/29/16 12:48 PM
The Mystery Behind Nissan/Jatco CVT Pulleys

Figure 5

Thats all there is to it; the


pulley assembly is apart. To reas-
semble, use a press. The exploded
view (figure 5) shows the order to
assemble the components.
When used with larger en-
gines, the RE0F09B primary pul-
ley assembly has a return spring
that isnt in other CVTs. This re-
turn spring is much weaker than
the one in the secondary pulley.
The primary pulley assembly also
has two half-moon retainers, but
theres no retainer shell. Youll see
these retainers easily once youve
removed the bearing (figure 8).
The procedure to disassemble
the primary pulley is similar to the
secondary pulley. After remov-
ing the retainer nut (right-hand
thread), use a three-jaw puller
or compatible tool to remove
the bearing and pulley retainer
(figure 6).

Figure 6

8 GEARS December 2016

1mikesouza1216.indd 8 11/29/16 12:18 PM


Automatic Transmission Standard Transmission Parts
Parts Rebuild Kits
Bearing Kits with Syncro Rings
Hard Parts Gasket Sets
OE Manufacturer, Aftermarket New, Forks & Sliders
Remanufactured, & Used Gears & Shafts
Drums
Shafts Rebuilt Transmissions
Pumps Transfer Cases
Planets Standards & Automatics
Valve Bodies
Complete Line of Miscellaneous parts Clutch Parts
LUK
Torque Converters Forks
Complete line of CVC Remanufactured Pilot Bushings & Bearings
Converters Clutch Alignment Tools

Soft Parts Transfer Case Parts


Master Kits Gasket & Seals Kits
Banner Kits (Less Steels) Overhaul Kits
Overhaul Kits Chains & Sprockets
Paper/Rubber Kits
Filters & Kits Shop Supplies & Tools
Frictions Additives
Steels Assembly Lubricants
Bushings Builders Benches
CVT Belts Lifts
Washers Parts Washer Soap
Bearings Rough Service Light Bulbs
Gaskets R.T.V. Black, Blue, Clear
Bands Technical Manuals
Flex Plates & Flywheels Tools & Equipment
Coolers Threadlock & Thread Repair
TeckPak Conversion Kits
Superior Shift Correction Packages Electrical
Transgo Reprogramming Kits Solenoids, Sensors, & Switches
Transgo Shift Kits Electrical Components

Version 5.0
Digital Catalog
For quicker access & more info, including
our Tranny Guide, ask for our CD
Catalog. With clickable links to take you
from index, to complete photo layout, to
individual part descriptions instantly!

800-940-0197
www.wittrans.com
December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 9 11/29/16 12:48 PM
The Mystery Behind Nissan/Jatco CVT Pulleys

Remove the half-moon re-


tainers and reinstall the retainer
nut, leaving it hand tight. Use
the two-jaw puller tool to pull up
on the apply piston and sheath
until they pop up like they did on
the secondary pulley assembly
(figure 7). This one wont spring
up as abruptly as the secondary
pulley because the return spring
is much weaker. In fact, you could
simply tap the assembly onto a
hard surface like a cement floor
and the piston will fall right off
onto the retainer nut.
Whether theres a kit available
or not, always take the pulleys
apart to clean out any debris inside
them, and to check the sealing
rings for damage to be sure theyll
seal and the piston will apply
well and not slip. The checkball-
type bearings found on the shaft
(figures 5 and 8) are known to fail;
inspect them carefully. Missing
this step will be a gamble: The
transmission may not perform Figure 7

Figure 8

10 GEARS December 2016

1mikesouza1216.indd 10 11/29/16 12:18 PM


December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 11 11/29/16 12:48 PM
STP_NewWebsite_Ad_2016_PRINT.indd 1 11/14/2016 3:21:31 PM
The Mystery Behind Nissan/Jatco CVT Pulleys

correctly: it could slip, or the


bearings could fail (figure 9).
Be careful assembling the
bearings back into the round
groove of the pulley sheath:
Install the lower bearing retain-
er ring into the pulley sheath.
Align the round grooves of the
pulley with the round grooves
on the shaft.
Install the bearings.
Raise the pulley just high
enough to install the upper Figure 9
bearing retainer ring.
The most important thing
to remember here is to place the
raised tab or bend on the top and
bottom bearing retainer ring
into one of the square grooves in
both the primary and secondary
pulley (figure 10). If not placed
into one of the square grooves, the
bearing retainer ends wont align
correctly, leaving one of the round
grooves to remain open. This will
allow the bearings to move out of
position on the shaft.
If you install the retainer
ring incorrectly in one of the
round grooves, itll leave one end
open and wont retain the bearing
(figure 11).
Hopefully this has cleared
up some of the mystery on these Figure 10
Nissan/Jatco CVTs. Well look
at more about CVTs in future
seminars, bulletins, and GEARS
articles.

Figure 11

12 GEARS December 2016

1mikesouza1216.indd 12 11/29/16 12:18 PM


December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 13 11/29/16 12:48 PM
STREET SMART

by Mike Brown
members.atra.com

A
common call to the ATRA install a new shift solenoid B, a new with most solenoid electrical codes,
HotLine has to do with solenoid filter, and bolt the pan back up. any problems in the circuit can
circuit problems. Most of you After you fill the transmission, cause the code. This includes power,
have been dealing with these types of you're ready for the road test. But ground, wiring, connections and
problem for years. Many of you have before you can back out of the shop, even the computer.
the answers seconds after you check the MIL is flashing again. You With all these possible problems,
for codes. reconnect your scan tool only to the question of where to start comes
If you're one of those technicians, discover the same 2-3 solenoid trouble up. Remember, it's always easier to
this article may not be for you. But if code. How can that be? It's a new diagnose one thing at a time. So, let's
you're a technician who appreciates a solenoid! break down each part of the circuit.
new look at a common problem, never Let's look at that code definition IMPORTANT: Never use a test-
dealt with solenoid codes, or are new again: 2-3 shift solenoid B electrical light to diagnose electrical problems
to the industry, keep reading. problem. on computer circuits. Testlights will
For this scenario, we're going to One of the features of the ATRA light up with as little as eight volts;
use a 2003 Hummer H2 6.0 engine HotLine is that we have a wide some even less. That's well below the
with a 4L60-E; the MIL is flashing and selection of factory manuals. In the voltage needed for a shift solenoid
the transmission is in failsafe. factory manual, DTC P0758 reads 2-3 to function properly. Always use
You check for codes using a scan shift solenoid circuit electrical. Ah ha! a voltmeter.
tool and find DTC P0758: 2-3 shift Almost the same, except for one small
solenoid B electrical problem. So you word: circuit. POWER SIDE TESTING
put the Hummer on the lift and drop That brings a whole new picture Power for this circuit comes
the pan. into play; or should I say circuit? from the ignition switch through the
The DTC says that shift solenoid Let's look at the 2-3 shift solenoid ING 0 fuse. This is a 10-amp fuse in
B has an electrical problem, so you circuit (figure 1). Keep in mind that, the I/P fuse block, and it provides
14 GEARS December 2016

1brown 1216.indd 14 11/29/16 12:26 PM


Figure 1

voltage to the case connector at the fuse, look for a bad igni-
transmission. From there it feeds the tion switch or a problem
TCC, TCC PWM, 1-2, 2-3, and 3-2 in the wiring between the
shift solenoids. ignition switch and the
Since the power circuit feeds fuse.
five solenoids, you'd think a power Because an ignition
feed problem should set DTCs for all switch can cause inter-
of them. But in many computers, as mittent problems, it's a
soon as one solenoid code sets, the good idea to wiggle the
computer stops checking for other key around while you're
circuit problems. So never assume that checking for voltage.
the power circuit is okay just because Let's move on to the
there's only one DTC in memory. transmission connector
One thing to keep in mind is (figure 2). Pin E receives
that the power at the ING fuse comes voltage from the ING 0
from the ignition switch. Those of you fuse and should have sys-
who've been doing this for some time tem voltage with the key
know that bad contacts in the ignition on. Inspect the connector
switch can cause an intermittent for corrosion, loose pins,
power problem. and oil intrusion. Moni-
The place to start is the fusebox. tor voltage at pin E while
With the key on, check for system the code sets. If voltage is
voltage on both sides of ING 0 fuse. If good, you can eliminate a
there's no voltage on either side of the power-side problem. Figure 2

GEARS December 2016 15

1brown 1216.indd 15 11/29/16 12:26 PM


A Logical Approach to Solenoid Circuit Testing

Figure 3

Another way to eliminate a sus- vehicle. You won't be able to shut the This is where a lot of the problems
pected power problem is to bypass the engine off until you disconnect the show up, especially after the transmis-
original power circuit; here's how: jumper wire. sion has been out of the vehicle. What
Tap into the original wire that feeds happens is the installer pinches the
pin E. GROUND SIDE TESTING wiring harness between the bellhous-
Jump this wire to battery positive The computer supplies ground to ing and the engine block, crimping the
through a 10-amp fuse (figure 3). the 2-3 solenoid through pin B in the wires. The wires break, causing the
If the problem goes away, youll case connector (figure 1). One way to circuit to open, or even short against
need to test the power circuit for loose diagnose the ground side is to discon- the block.
connections, breaks in the wire, or nect the PCM (computer), turn the key During the ground check, this
additional resistance. on, and check for voltage at pin 47 of shows up as no voltage on the ground
If the problem is still there, the C2 connector. side of the circuit. Thats what
remove the bypass and check the Current travels from the ignition happened here.
ground side of the circuit. switch, through each solenoid, and to The fix was simple: The techni-
IMPORTANT: When you tap the computer, seeking ground. So you cian loosened the transmission and
into pin E with a jumper wire, should see system voltage on pin 47 of slid the wiring out of the bellhousing.
you're basically hot-wiring the the C2 connector. Then he repaired the broken wires and

16 GEARS December 2016

1brown 1216.indd 16 11/29/16 12:26 PM


SAVE TIME AND MONEY
WITH THE RAP KIT!
Programming can be expensive, complicated and time-consuming.
Towing a vehicle to a dealer or using a mobile programming service
cuts into your schedule and profits.

The RAP (Remote Access Programming) Kit, exclusively from Transtar, allows
you to program and flash a vehicle right from your shop! No additional tools,
training, software or expensive subscriptions required.

THE RAP KIT IS ABSOLUTELY FREE!


EVERYTHING YOU NEED IS RIGHT IN THE BOX.
PLUG IT IN, MAKE A PHONE CALL AND WE DO THE REST!
EACH PROGRAMMING EVENT IS $125

FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO REGISTER FOR YOUR


OWN RAP KIT, VISIT TRANSTAR1.COM/RAP-INFO.

December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 17 11/29/16 12:48 PM


A Logical Approach to Solenoid Circuit Testing

Figure 4

the transmission worked like new: No If the circuit current flow is in- You should also check all power
more code P0758. correct, it means somethings wrong and ground circuits to the computer.
But what if thats not the problem? in the circuit: power, ground, or the Use a schematic to identify the power
What if the current measurement solenoid itself. Assuming the circuit and ground circuits in the computer
is correct? passed the other checks, youre prob- connectors.
In that case, since you've verified ably looking at a resistance problem: Figure 4 shows a view of both
the circuit is complete, your next step either too much or not enough. computer connectors with the
would be to ground pin 47 through an If current flow is correct, it means power and ground pins labeled for
ammeter to identify any problems in the circuit is good and you may have this vehicle.
the circuit. a computer problem. But before you Check these circuits by backprob-
Solenoid resistance is 20 to 30 spend hundreds of dollars replacing ing the computer pins with the connec-
ohms and system voltage with the the computer, there are a few final tests tor plugged into the computer and the
engine off should be about 12.6 volts, you should perform: key on.
so a good circuit should develop about Before you replace any computer, All power inputs should equal
0.63 to 0.42 amps of current flow always check the circuit in question; system voltage and all grounds should
(V/R=A). we've already done that for this example. have less than 0.10 volts.

18 GEARS December 2016

1brown 1216.indd 18 11/29/16 12:26 PM


OE OR PRODUCTS WITH
BETTER
INTEGRITY

More critical components, more OE More critical components, High Performance Kits
components, more premium seals and more OE components, more engineered utilizing best-
gaskets, plus design enhancements, premium seals and gaskets, plus in-class materials for racing,
patented components and all the little design enhancements, patented diesel, heavy duty and RV
extras you wont find elsewhere. components and all the little applications.
extras you wont find elsewhere.

Hi-Per Blue pistons are reengineered Accept NO Substitute! The Beast Largest selection of individual
original equipment design with is reengineered to correct the bushing and kits including
upgraded AEM material for superior weakness in the spline area of the hard-to-find and most recent
thermal and chemical resistance, better original equipment design General applications available separately
fit and higher performance. Motors 4L60E/TH700-R4 reaction or in kits. Engineered utilizing
sun gear shell. US Patent No. 6,561,944 best-in-class materials and
machining processes.

Technical Questions or Comments? Contact us: (800) 582-2760 (954) 364-2400


sealsap.com technicalsupport@sealsap.com 2016 Seal Aftermarket Products. All rights reserved.

December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 19 11/29/16 12:48 PM


A Logical Approach to Solenoid Circuit Testing

Figure 5

BYPASS TEST Run another wire from the positive can set a 2-3 solenoid electrical trouble
If everything else checks out okay, post of the battery through a 10-amp code, and there's more than one way to
there's one more test you should per- fuse to the other terminal on the 2-3 test the circuit. You can test a wide va-
form before condemning the computer: solenoid (figure 5). riety of solenoid circuit problems using
The Bypass Test. By doing this, you've created a these same procedures.
Cut the wire at the computer that test circuit for the computer to control. Using logic and a proper wiring
controls the circuit youre test- If the code still sets with this circuit diagram, you, too, can tackle solenoid
ing, leaving 1 to 2 inches of wire in place, either you have a bad com- circuit electrical codes with this simple
on the computer connector. In this puter or there's a problem with com- bypass test, and take the guesswork
example, it should be pin 47 of the puter grounds or power inputs. Since out of your diagnosis. And thats not
C2 connector. you should have already checked the just smart, thats street smart!
Connect the wire from the computer powers and grounds, its probably
connector directly to one of the the computer.
terminals on a known good 2-3 shift As you can see, there are many
solenoid. possibilities in the solenoid circuit that

20 GEARS December 2016

1brown 1216.indd 20 11/29/16 12:26 PM


December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 21 11/29/16 12:48 PM
by Rob Faucett
members.atra.com

T
he advantages of having the right are where to probe and what
tools for the job can make the dif- the signals are supposed to do.
ference between getting it done In most cases, that information
quickly and beating your head against will be available in your shop
the wall. One tool that can make your wiring diagrams. If you happen
job a lot easier is a scope or graphing to be using an automotive-specific
meter (figure 1). graphing meter or scope, such as
Almost every job that comes Snap-ons Vantage or Verus, you
through your door today will lead may have that information built
to some electrical diagnosis. These into the meter (figure 2).
diagnoses can include checking the Heres an example where a
fluid level and condition, checking for graphing meter made a difference
codes, and looking for problems in the in diagnostic time: The vehicle
data stream. If you dont find anything was a 2008 Ford F250 with a
substantial with these checks, it usual- freshly rebuilt 5R110W. The
ly leads to probing wires and checking transmission would intermittently
for signals. lock the tires while driving down
The most important things to the highway, with no codes in
know when checking for these signals memory. Of course, no one told

Figure 1 Figure 2

22 GEARS December 2016

1Rob 1216.indd 22 11/29/16 12:30 PM


One of the main
benefits of a
graphing meter
over a regular
meter is that it
allows you to
look for changes
in the electrical
signal.
Figure 3

the technician that the problem was the others at the transmission end,
there before the rebuild! there should have been no continuity.
So the technician connected a A wiggle test revealed otherwise:
scan tool and monitored the data the intermediate and overdrive
during a road test. Turns out the trans- solenoid command wires would in-
mission would bind-up in 6th gear termittently develop continuity when
and showed no abnormal solenoid wiggling them where the loom passed
commands when it occurred. through a bracket and rested against an
To cause a bind-up in 6th, the air conditioning line.
coast clutch, intermediate clutch, There was only a small amount
or low reverse clutch would have of scuffing on the loom, and no
to come on. If the low reverse were holes. But the wires inside had their
the problem, the bind-up would insulation rubbed off, allowing con-
have been more random, and occur tact between the overdrive solenoid
in any gear, so the technician ruled and the intermediate clutch solenoid
that out and monitored the coast and command circuits.
intermediate clutches. When the computer energized
He used the Vantage database to the overdrive solenoid, it would feed
identify the connector pins (figure 3) power to the intermediate solenoid
Figure 4
and backprobed the solenoid command wire, and the intermediate clutches
wires. A set of 6 extension leads would come on. This would cause
(figure 4) made it easy to read the the transmission to bind, locking
meter from inside the vehicle during the wheels.
the test drive. It wasnt long before One of the main benefits of a
the technician saw the intermediate graphing meter over a regular meter is
clutch solenoid commanded on in 6th, that it allows you to look for changes
causing the bind-up. in the electrical signal. This is
Since the problem was completely particularly useful if youre trying to
intermittent cold, hot, might happen find an intermittent problem. Sure, the
once a week or maybe several times a MinMax or Record features that many
day his first thought was a wiring DMMs share can provide a similar
harness or an internal computer issue. capability, but the graphing meter
A visual inspection of the harness or scope provide a visual history,
revealed no serious damage between both for your diagnosis and to show
transmission and the computer. the customer.
At this point, the technician Intermittent electrical problems
disconnected the battery and wiring can be some of the hardest to diagnose,
harness from the transmission and the but the right tools can make your life a
computer. This should have isolated lot easier.
the individual circuits: While probing
from one solenoid command wire to
GEARS December 2016 23

1Rob 1216.indd 23 11/29/16 12:30 PM


by Scott Shotton
The Driveability Guys

L
ast month we covered a misfires. They can cause network ignition coils on 5.4-liter engines due
relatively universal method of communication problems, PCM to an intermittent misfire. Granted,
narrowing potential causes for failures, and even put transmissions eight ignition coils will usually solve
misfire using scan data. The timing into failsafe. Thats right: They can the problem, but is the additional
of the articles publication was ideal. I stick a transmission into failsafe. expense of replacing all eight ignition
was privileged enough to present this These issues are common enough coils necessary? I think we need to
very topic at ATRAs Powertrain Expo that some shops are selling eight diagnose.
a few weeks ago.
I had a wonderful time
presenting and, more importantly,
discussing the topic with
technicians after the presentation.
During these conversations, I
received a variety of questions.
One referred to Ford ignition
coils and how often they fail. The
conversation struck a chord for
me for multiple reasons.
Ford ignition coils have a
high failure rate; a situation youre
probably familiar with. Usually
these failures cause a misfire
or intermittent misfire that can
sometimes be hard to pinpoint.
But failed Ford ignition
coils can cause issues other than Figure 1

24 GEARS December 2016

1scottshotton1216.indd 24 11/29/16 12:32 PM


In this issue, well focus on a
technique for diagnosing marginal
or failing Ford ignition coils. If Most manufacturers didnt
used properly, you should be able to
identify all failing coils. As a result, provide misfire data
youll have accurate diagnoses,
youll avoid comebacks, and you
wont have to sell a full set of
in Mode $06 prior to CAN.
ignition coils when only one or two
are necessary. In addition, check the Mode $06 they may not read the data as well as
Based on everything we discussed data. The information Fords provide the IDS.
in the last issue regarding fuel trim through the Mode $06 data can shine. The important thing to remember
and downstream oxygen sensors, Mode $06 is included in almost all is that, for most pre-CAN Ford
heres a 2-step process for checking generic or global scan tools. Mode $06 vehicles, test ID 53 (TID$53) is the
misfire on Ford vehicles. Well look at provides non-continuous monitor test individual cylinder misfire monitor
a 2000 E150 with a 5.4-liter engine. results. It offers more of a grade than and components ID 1 through 8
The customers complaint was the MIL the pass/fail we normally get with a (CID$01 CID$08) are the individual
came on intermittently. trouble code. We could discuss this for cylinder results. Anything other than
hours, but today well explore its value a zero indicates the PCM may have
STEP 1: in Ford misfire diagnostics. detected a misfire.
GATHER SCAN DATA Most manufacturers didnt provide The data reveals that cylinder
misfire data in Mode $06 prior to number two has definitely failed the
The first step is to connect a scan CAN. Ford was the exception and misfire monitor and is whats causing
tool. Check for DTCs and freeze frame provided this data all the way back to the DTC. Closer examination shows
data to see if you can identify the the 1996 model year. that cylinders one and seven have also
misfiring cylinder (figure 1). Our test From our sample vehicle, we registered misfires. That leaves us with
vehicle set code P0302 and provided checked the Mode $06 data using a three cylinders to focus on instead
freeze frame date to suggest an factory Ford IDS scan tool (figure 2). of eight.
ignition-related problem. You can do this with generic tools but

Figure 2

GEARS December 2016 25

1scottshotton1216.indd 25 11/29/16 12:32 PM


Nail Down Those Troublesome Ford Ignition Coils

Figure 3

STEP 2:
TEST THE COILS
Even though weve identified
three cylinders that were
misfiring, your next step should
be to connect a scope and observe
all eight ignition events, paying
close attention to the questionable
cylinders.
There are two methods you
can use to diagnose Ford ignition
coils: The first is a coil stress
test, spelled out in Ford TSB
05-22-8. This is a great test but Figure 4
requires caution because it could
damage the PCM if its performed you can do is scope the current for in a consistent firing order, from left
incorrectly. the questionable coils. The diagram to right.
In addition, you need to remove (figure 3) shows the fuse that feeds Clamp a low-current probe around
the coils to perform the test, which power to all of the ignition coils. the jumper wire to measure the
takes extra time. Finally, it requires Remove the fuse and install a ignition coils current.
extensive scope knowledge to perform jumper wire in its place. Start the engine.
the test with a generic scope, because Connect a positive lead to the driver All of the ignition coils will be
the TSB instructions are specific to the wire for ignition coil number one visible in firing order across the scope
VMM; a Ford factory tool. and a negative lead is to ground. screen (figure 4). The firing order
The second method is much This second connection provides a for this vehicle is 1-3-7-2-6-5-4-8, as
easier but still requires a scope. What sync signal for displaying the coils labeled on the scope capture.
26 GEARS December 2016

1scottshotton1216.indd 26 11/29/16 12:32 PM


ATRA HAS
STEPPED UP TO
THE PLATE AND
BROUGHT US
SOME OF THE
BEST BUSINESS
TRAINERS IN
THE INDUSTRY.
DOUG DIRKS
DIRKS AUTOMOTIVE
& TRANSMISSION

AT ATRA, TRANSMISSIONS ARE ALL WE DO.

ATRA has always been a great technical resource. But, in todays business
environment, it takes more than being just a great technician to survive. ATRA
has stepped up to the plate and brought us some of the best business trainers
in the industry. Along with their continuous market research, our industry will
continue to thrive. Thank you ATRA for your support of our Industry.

Doug Dirks, Owner of Dirks Automotive & Transmission


Oroville, CA

JOIN TODAY
MEMBERS.ATRA.COM // 1-866-GO-4-ATRA

atra testimonial1214.indd 2 12/8/14 2:41 AM


Nail Down Those Troublesome Ford Ignition Coils

Now youre ready to analyze


each ignition coils waveform to
determine its health. Obviously,
cylinder twos waveform doesnt
look like the others and the
coil needs to be replaced. The
downward spikes indicate
secondary ignition breakdown.
Youll need to analyze the
other waveforms further before
condemning any other coils. To do
that, you first need to know what
good looks like.
Take a look at a waveform
from a good ignition coil (figure
5). The blue trace ramps up and
then drops off. Because many
Fords multi-strike at idle, each
coil pulses multiple times; this can Figure 5
be helpful.
Each charging event takes rise in current, because the magnetic Mode $06 data indicated a problem.
some time. The discharge event field hasnt collapsed fully. A weak You can see that the magnetic field is
should take time, too. The red lines coil collapses too fast and the vertical weak.
demonstrate how the coil energy rise is absent. In this case, cylinder 2 was
should dissipate. Imagine the The next capture (figure 6) is the obvious cause of the misfire. In
triangulated peaks. The second and from ignition coil number seven. This addition, cylinders 1 (not shown) and 7
third pulses of the coil have a vertical was one of the cylinders for which the failed the coil current test.

28 GEARS December 2016

1scottshotton1216.indd 28 11/29/16 12:32 PM


CONCLUSION
In this case, a single igni-
tion coil on cylinder number
two would have resolved the
customers misfire. With the addi-
tion of Mode $06 data and obser-
vation of the full scope capture,
we were able to identify two more
failing cylinders.
Because the diagnosis was
thorough, including the use of a
scope to check all the cylinders,
we were able to present a more
detailed recommendation to the
customer: one coil, three coils,
or eight coils. No matter which
option the customer chooses,
youve covered your bases and the
chance for a comeback should be Figure 6
reduced.
In this particular case, Throwing a full set of ignition
the customer opted to replace all coils would have fixed this problem.
eight ignition coils. The customers But the short time spent identifying
reasoning was Its my work truck. the actual failure established your
If its down, I dont make any money. credibility and improved your value to
Just do them all. the customer.

RostraTRANSMISSION
GEARS December 2016 29

1scottshotton1216.indd 29 11/29/16 12:32 PM


FUN WITH TRANSMISSIONS

by Bill Brayton
members.atra.com

T
his past October, ATRA was pressure signal that varied with vehicle
in Las Vegas for the 2016 speed. The higher the road speed, the
Powertrain Expo. This year, higher the pressure.
ATRA presented a series of seminars Todays transmissions are
titled Transmissions 101. The Saturday completely computer controlled. The
series started with R&R 101 then to engine and transmission have many
Diagnositics 101 and finished with electronic sensors and computers to
Transmissions 101. control shift timing and feel. That
This series was aimed at entry- being said, yesterdays and todays
level technicians who are new to the transmissions have the same basic
industry. What surprised all of us was valves in the valve body.
how many industry veterans attended
the series, which goes to show that we VALVE TYPES
can all use a little brushing up on the There are many varieties of valve
basics every now and then. bodies. Each one looks and functions
In this issue of Fun with somewhat differently. But despite
Transmissions, were going to check these variations, there are only three
out valve bodies and the basic valve types of valves:
types that youre likely to see in nearly 1. Regulator A regulator valve
every transmission. lowers pressure from a higher-
Not all that long ago, pressure source. A regulator can
transmissions used throttle valves, have a static setting, producing a
modulator valves (engine load constant pressure, or it can vary
signals), and governor valves (road the pressure output, based on
speed signal) to control shift timing influences from a mechanical force
and feel. Throttle cables and vacuum or hydraulic pressure.
lines connected the valve body to 2. Switch A switch valve works
the engine. The governor valve like a light switch: its either on
was attached to the output shaft or off. It supplies a component
and supplied the valve body with a or another valve with oil, or it

30 GEARS December 2015

1bill-1216 v2.indd 30 11/29/16 12:34 PM


exhausts the oil to the sump. The larger, the force created by
most common valve of this type hydraulic pressure pushes
is a shift valve. It can direct oil to the valve toward the spring
a shifting element, like a servo or (figure 3).
clutch drum, or it can switch oil The third type of
pressure between two other valves. regulator is a main pressure
3. Servo A servo valve moves regulator, which operates
another valve; either a switch valve by bleeding off pressure
or regulator valve. directly from the pump
feed to maintain a balanced
VALVE IDENTIFICATION pressure.
Regulator Valves One of The source pressure for
the first exercises in understanding the main pressure regulator
valve function and oil schematic originates from the pump,
interpretation is identifying the three rather than a regulated Figure 1
types of valves.
The regulator valve is the most
common, but the most difficult to
recognize because there are several 6F35N Solenoid Regulator Valve
types of regulators. There are two
properties common to all regulators
that will help you identify them:
1. Nearly all regulators use a spring
(the only exceptions are a few
governors.
2. They use source pressure to move
the valve toward the spring.
All regulators require a balance
system to maintain regulation. Most 6L80E Actuator Feed Limit Valve
balance systems take pressure that the
regulator has modified and apply it to
an area of the regulator. This balance
pressure works on the valve to move it
toward the spring.
Here are three basic regulators.
In the first example, the balance oil is
regulated pressure that is diverted to
the end of the valve (figure 1). Figure 2
A common example of this
type of regulator valve at work is the
solenoid regulator valve in a 6F35N
and the actuator feed limit valve in
a 6L80E (figure 2). Although these
valves have different names, they
both perform the same function: To
regulate feed oil to the shift solenoids.
Also both of these valves are very
prone to valve bore wear, which can
cause shift and engagement issues.
Be sure to take extra care when
inspecting these valves and the bores.
The second regulator uses an
internal balance system: Pressure
isnt diverted to the end of the valve;
instead, the pressure goes between
two of the lands on the valve. Since
the land closer to the spring is Figure 3

GEARS December 2016 31

1bill-1216 v2.indd 31 11/29/16 12:34 PM


Transmissions 101: Understanding Valve Types

SERVO
VALVES
SERVE
ONE MAIN
PURPOSE:
TO MOVE
OTHER
VALVES.

source. These main pressure


regulators use mainline pressure
to provide balance pressure. This
prevents the entire system from
exceeding the level set for the
system (figure 4).
Switch Valves Switch
Figure 4
valves, as their name implies,
switch oil on or off. They can
direct oil to a shifting element or
another valve. Switch valves dont
vary pressure like a regulator;
theyre either open or closed.
Typically, when a switch valve
closes a circuit, it will also open
that circuit to exhaust.
Theres one property of a
switch valve that makes it easy to
identify: A switch valve doesnt
use source pressure to move the
valve. Theres always some other
Figure 5 force that moves the valve.

32 GEARS December 2016

1bill-1216 v2.indd 32 11/29/16 12:34 PM


The next two examples show
two basic switch valves. In the first
example, the valve is controlled
mechanically. This is usually what
youd see in a manual valve or
detent valve (figure 5).
In the second example, the
switch valve is controlled by some
other pressure (typically from a
shift solenoid). This is usually
the arrangement for shift valves
(figure 6). Common examples
of switch valves are 4L60E shift
valves, which are controlled by the
shift solenoids.
Servo Valves Servo valves
serve one main purpose: To move
other valves. But sometimes a
manufacturer will also use a servo
valve as regulator or a switch.
You may want to consider these
combination valves.
A combination valve then can
be referred to as a servo/switch
valve, or a servo/regulator valve,
but its primary function is a servo
valve (figure 7).

Figure 6

GEARS December 2016 33

1bill-1216 v2.indd 33 11/29/16 1:37 PM


Transmissions 101: Understanding Valve Types

SERVO
VALVE

ISOLATOR
VALVE

SERVO
VALVE

Figure 7

Switch Valves that Regulate between wide open and full closed, switch valve to float between open and
Pressure Many units today control regulating the pressure to the circuit. closed, causing the valve to work as
line pressure using a pulse width Even though these valves regulate a regulator.
modulated solenoid. These solenoids pressure, theyre still considered The Ford 6R60 valve body uses
are energized and de-energized very switch valves. this type of solenoid/switch valve to
quickly, which regulates the pressure In figure 8, the solenoid is apply the clutches. This allows the
applied to one side of a switch valve. receiving a pulsed signal. These computer to apply and release the
This causes the switch valve to float pulses are so fast, they cause the clutches with great accuracy.

34 GEARS December 2016

1bill-1216 v2.indd 34 11/29/16 1:37 PM


When we joined this industry,
some of us came through family,
some through tech schools (like
me), and some needed a job
and started sweeping floors and
worked our way up through
the ranks.
Transmission work is
something that is learned by
doing. Yes, you need a basic
mechanical aptitude to do this
work and a determination to learn.
When you learn, you become an
asset to your shop.
Knowing which types of
valves are which, what they do,
and how they perform will help
when things dont go right, or
and this is a biggie when youre
working on a vehicle that just
doesnt feel quite right.
And we all know that when
things go right and feel right
with the cars were working on,
its much easier to have fun with
transmissions!
Figure 8

DRIVE PLATE BREAKTHRU


FORD 4R100, 5R110W
TORQUE CONVERTER FX-23-78 PROBLEM

LTIMATE PGRADE
PATENTED USA
TRI COMPONENT
SOLUTION

Extended teeth overcome fretting of front covers.


Extends service life on worn or new covers
Noise and chatter are eliminated.
GEARS December 2016 35

1bill-1216 v2.indd 35 11/29/16 1:37 PM


WORDS OF WISDOM

A
few weeks ago, I was in Las
Vegas for the 2016 Expo. It
was a wonderful experience
and, even after all these years in the
transmission repair business, I can
honestly say I learned a lot.
One of the most often repeated
concepts for helping to shape the
future of our industry was the need
for us long-timers to share what weve
learned over the years with the younger
folks; mentoring was the catchphrase
for this year. And to be honest, its
something Im only too happy to do,
as long as someone is willing to pay
attention.
I started working in the transmis-
sion business back in 1963, so I think
that qualifies me as a long-timer. And
if theres just one thing I can share with
the younger generations entering this
business, its the importance of learn-
ing to listen.
I started out doing the traditional
entry-level work: sweeping floors,
emptying the trash, washing parts,
and, eventually moving up into R&R
and teardown. Later I went to tech
school in Los Angeles and, when I
graduated, I got my first real job as a
transmission mechanic in a high-end
transmission shop.
Id only been working there for
about three weeks when a customer
came in with his 1958 Cadillac. The
boss asked me to drive the customer
to work and see if I could identify
the problem.
The customer a lawyer with
absolutely no training in auto repair
told me several times that he thought it
was the governor; or, as he put it, the
govern part of the transmission. Yeah,
right; like he had a clue!
I brought the car back to the shop
and got ready to pull the transmission,
all the while regaling the other
by Scottie South mechanics with stories about the
Owner and ATRA Member customer who thought he knew what
Scotties Transmissions was wrong with his car. Heck, he didnt
Amarillo, Texas even know what the part was called!

36 GEARS December 2016

1Scotties 1216.indd 36 11/29/16 12:37 PM


The shop owner heard me and and took the car for a test drive. The cars than the customers themselves.
called me into his office. He said, transmission shifted like new. Theyve been driving those cars for
I hired you because I thought The boss asked me to deliver the three four five years or more.
you wanted to learn to be a good car to the customer and the customer Maybe they dont know whats wrong,
mechanic. I assured him I did. asked me what Id found. I told him but theyre sure to notice when some-
Then the first thing you need to it was the governor, just as hed thing feels or sounds a little different.
learn is the importance of listening to suspected. He smiled and thanked Even if theyre completely wrong,
the customer, he said. They may not me for my work. And over the years their concerns are important to them,
know how to fix them, but they know he became my most loyal customer: which means they should be important
their cars and are more likely to notice Whatever he needed even if it to you. That often means just being
when something isnt right. Listen wasnt something I normally worked able to explain why the repairs you did
well, ask questions, and youll be way on hed ask me to handle it and over here corrected a noise that they
ahead of anyone else in this business. supervise the repairs. thought was coming from over there.
Then he sent me back to work on In retrospect, its not so surprising There are a lot of things you need
the car. that customers would want us to to learn to be good at fixing todays
I was just starting to pull the listen to them. Its what any of us cars. The folks at ATRA spent hours
transmission out, but what the boss would want when we have a problem. at Expo delivering just a small part of
said got me thinking: The governor If nothing else, it shows respect for that education a couple weeks ago. But
was right there. Why not check it first? the customer: It proves that theyre if you really want to be the best, you
I removed the governor and important to you that you value have to learn to listen really listen
wouldnt you know it? a their needs. to your customers.
washer was seized up. I replaced the And, as my old boss pointed out,
governor, changed the fluid and filter, no one has more experience with their

D o you have a tip youd like to share with


the rest of the industry? Something youve
learned over the years that some of the younger
crowd could benefit from? GEARS wants to hear
from you!
Send us your idea or give us a call and let
us know what youd like to share. Well evaluate
your thoughts and turn them into a message that
everyone can benefit from.
Dont worry if you arent comfortable
writing: Well handle getting your ideas down
on paper and publishing them. Just give us
something that youve used to help grow and
operate your shop, and well do the rest.
This is your chance to help mentor the entire
industry. Share your thoughts and lets help
improve everyones future.

Email your tips and ideas to:


rbland@gearsmagazine.com
or call (805) 604-2012

GEARS December 2016 37

1Scotties 1216.indd 37 11/29/16 12:37 PM


UP YOUR BUSINESS

U
p Your Business is an successful shop owners possess. Join
exclusive GEARS Magazine the Whats Workingforum and be part
feature in which I share of whats working in your industry.
stories, insights, and reflections about The results we found that really
real business and life challenges. work come from the people that are
In over 20 years as an arbitrator making it happen in todays business
and mediator, Ive observed that climate. They are everyday shop
most customer disputes are somehow owners just like you.
related to misunderstandings about
warranties. The BBB reports that A Seemingly
warranty disputes outnumber almost Simple Question by Thom Tschetter
all other categories by a significant The following post recently
percentage. appeared on the Whats Working
Lets look at an example that was forum:
recently discussed on ATRAs Whats Quick question. When do you of questions, comments, opinions,
Working forum. end a warranty? I have a custom- and advice for the courageous shop
For those of you who dont know er that left a message last night. owner who made the post. By the way,
about it, ATRAs Whats Working Its been four years and over while Im keeping the name of the
forum is a free discussion group where 60,000 miles since overhaul and shop owner anonymous, I can assure
ATRA Members celebrate successes, there appears to be a problem, you that hes a fine person, runs a
share ideas, express frustrations, seek and he wants to know what Im quality shop, and has an outstanding
advice, or just generally commiserate going to do about it. His son has reputation.
with one another. The topics are it at school and hes a good cus- I found it interesting how
limited to non-technical discussions tomer, but Im not sure what to quickly some were willing to make
on such things as sales, management, offer! Any ideas? recommendations to the shop owner.
advertising, employee or customer The nice thing about this question This was most likely because, as Ive
issues, financial, legal matters, etc. is weve all heard it and had to deal already said, weve all been down this
To sign up for the Whats Working with it. The bad thing about it is weve road before.
forum, go to www.gearsmagazine. all heard it and had to deal with it. But lets not put the heart before
com/forums. Shops all across the the course. First, lets review the
USA and Canada are realizing better The Discussion questions, both those that were asked
business by focusing on the five As you might imagine, the and answered, and some that I feel
recurring traits we discovered all members of the forum had plenty should have been asked.

38 GEARS December 2016

1tschetter 1216.indd 38 11/29/16 12:39 PM


As an arbitrator, I always needed He thinks it should have gone in "outside sources" related
to know as many of the facts as 150,000 miles. If I gave him $500 parts that can create additional
possible and to separate the facts off and a longer warranty he said he wear. U-joints, mounts, engine
from the fairytales before making a might bring it back! Im having him endplay, and a host of other things
decision. Likewise, I think this is good bring it in and Ill help him, but I that can shorten the life of even the
advice before offering your counsel did tell him I couldnt take $500 off best transmission. (Even lack of
or opinion, or recommending action and give him a longer warranty. I preventive maintenance).
to anyone. think he understands and Ill let you If it went 60K and developed
know where this goes. problem, it wasnt because of your
Questions and Answers repair. Your customer who claims
Heres a list of questions Id want Advice, Suggestions, it's your fault just wants you to share
to have answered before making an ar- and Opinions the cost.It only cost him a phone
bitration ruling or complaint resolution There are no right or wrong call to ask.
recommendation. Ill include the ques- answers in these situations. Theres Do the same. Call the shop that
tions and answers that appeared on no handbook or recipe sometimes has the car, find out what they think
the forum as well as those that werent you just have to go with your gut. is wrong and what caused it. Try
asked but should have been. But I think its important to consider and work with the shop on behalf
1. Did the customer get a written things like your reputation, word-of- of your customer. It's in your best
warranty from you? Yes. mouth advertising (good and bad), the interest to work with him to get the
2. What are the mileage and time acquisition cost of getting just one new problem resolved, but it shouldn't
limits on the warranty you gave the customer, etc. also be your problem to pay for it.
customer? 2 years / 24,000 miles. Before I share my arbitrator/ I think this suggestion is well
3. (Question not asked or answered) mediator recommendation, lets look thought through. Again, knowing
Was it an ATRA Golden Rule at what the forum participants had the shop owner who posted these
Warranty? to offer. I respect all the individuals thoughts, he is well intentioned.
4. (Question not asked or answered) and their answers, but Im taking the But I think it might be
Where is the vehicle now? Assumed liberty to provide alternate thoughts too much of a leap to dismiss
to be at an out-of-town shop. for your consideration. the possibility that some level
5. (Question not asked or answered) 1. One shop owner offered this of financial participation isnt
Whats wrong with the thought: My rule of thumb If needed or appropriate. In fact,
transmission? Assumed to be a its here, in my shop, ONLY!, I do unless the problem is pinned
major problem. a fixit for $1000 or so on most to some other contributory
6. Question not asked or answered) any old unit of mine.Its usually a factor, as he suggested in the
What is the year, make, and model full build, but it goes a long way for first paragraph of his response,
of the vehicle and what is the customer satisfaction, and I dont a gesture of some kind might
transmission type? lose the farm on it. go a long way toward restoring
7. How many miles did the rebuilt In my opinion, this is certainly a the relationship with this good
transmission last? Over 70,000 fair solution when you consider customer.
miles. the warranty had expired in both Remember, the shop owner,
8. How many miles did the original time and mileage. Knowing the himself said, I usually beat
transmission last? individual who posted this, I the OE mileage, just didnt this
Had 115,000 on odo when it know that his fixit term doesnt time. If this is top of mind for
came here originally. It went only mean just do the minimum him to post, who knows? He
70,000 miles after I rebuilt it. He hell fix it right. I also know that might have set that bar by making
thinks it should have gone 150,000. if the customer isnt happy, hes such a statement to the customer
I usually beat the OE mileage; just not happy, so hed go further in when he sold the job.
didnt this time. situations that called for greater How do you feel about this
3.
9. (Question asked late in the flexibility. As he stated, this is his response? Hes asking you to
discussion, but this is one of the first rule-of-thumb solution. warrant it longer than the original
questions I would have asked) What 2. Another shop owner had these manufacturer did. I had a longtime
does the customer want you to do? thoughts: You've got to also factor customer try to do this to me as

GEARS December 2016 39

1tschetter 1216.indd 39 11/29/16 12:39 PM


When Do You End a Warranty?

well; I offered a 50/50 split but My Spin him. Without that information, how
he still didnt go for it. He was can he do anything but fret about it and
at another shop and they were My answer to the question, When make up stories that only feed his fear?
throwing us under the bus. Some do you end a warranty? is you dont I dont think he should have
relationships just can't be salvaged. end a warranty. Legally speaking, the negotiated with the customer on the
I came to the conclusion that warranty document expresses a be- phone or told him what he was or
something else caused the failure ginning and an ending in terms of wasnt willing to do. The first thing
and he was too embarrassed to time and mileage, but the lifespan of a he should have done was to reassure
bring it to me. warranty can be whatever the parties the customer that he was going to take
Im glad someone posted this believe it to be. care of the matter for him.
response because Im quite When the customer thinks it Once the vehicle was in the shop,
certain many of you thought should be longer than stated, theres he could determine the extent and
similarly, and we can learn a a body of law called the Uniform cause of the damage. He would then
lot from it. The person offering Code that deals with whats called a be in a better position to discuss (not
this response appears to be a reasonable service life expectancy of a negotiate) an acceptable resolution for
little defensive. Hes making product or service. the customer.
a recommendation based on The Uniform Commercial Code In the end, he should make sure he
something another customer provides an automatic implied retains a happy customer and protects
tried to do to him. Hes also made warranty of merchantability. That his shop with a settlement agreement
some assumptions that may or unwritten protection guarantees as I described.
may not be true. that consumer products are free of In the next issue, Ill explain what
This is a perfect example substantial defects and will function you need to know and what you can
of what I mean when I say its properly for a reasonable period. do to protect yourself, your business,
necessary to separate the facts of Whats reasonable depends on and your customers when it comes
what happened from emotions, the type of product and the amount to warranties.
or what I call the stories, when you paid.
dealing with customer disputes. Clearly, by mutual agreement, a
Can you separate the facts warranty or some aspect of it can be
from the stories involved in this and often is honored far beyond the
response? Lets look at each established limits. Share Your Stories
statement. With this in mind, I believe all If youve personally experienced a
Hes asking you to warrant it resolutions of customer disputes about weird or unusual customer dispute and
wouldnt mind sharing it to help your
longer than the original. Fact. warranties should include a written
industry, please contact me. You just tell
Another customer tried to do agreement with some exchange of me the story and Ill do all the heavy
this to him. This is just a story value between the customer and lifting to write it.
or his perspective not a fact. the shop. The statement can be as We can make it an article about
He offered a 50/50 split and the simple as: you, or you may remain anonymous. The
customer rejected it. Fact. The shop has performed re- main thing is we want to share stories
The car was at another shop. pairs to the subject vehicle as that will help others avoid similar prob-
This could be a fact or maybe described on this repair order for lems. Call me at 480-773-3131 or email
the customer made it up as his the reduced price of $_____. The me at coachthom@gmail.com.
story. parties agree that this is in full About the Author
The other shop was throwing and complete settlement of all Thom Tschetter has served our
us under the bus. This is just a past, present, and future warranty industry for nearly four decades as a
story unless its confirmed first claims related to repairs previ- management and sales educator. He
hand, by testimony or written ously and contemporaneously owned a chain of award-winning trans-
affidavit. performed on this vehicle. mission centers in Washington State for
Some relationships just cant IMPORTANT: This is a sample over 25 years.
be salvaged. While generally only; always check with your attorney He calls on over 30 years of
accepted by most people, this to work out the best wording for your experience as a speaker, writer, business
consultant, and certified arbitrator for
is totally a story. situation.
topics for this feature column.
Something else failed and the Finally, I feel the shop owner in Thom is always eager to help
customer was too embarrassed this article should have immediately members of our industry and continues
to admit it. Do I need to say contacted the customer to find out all to be proactive in pursuing ways to
it? This is absolutely his own the details, including what he was improve your business and your life.
story. hoping the shop owner would do for

40 GEARS December 2016

1tschetter 1216.indd 40 11/29/16 12:39 PM


by Jim Cathcart

Y
ou arrive at work before your that youve had experience with. The a coworker, the angry crowd, or an
coworkers and you dont have prevailing views are contrary to yours. emergency, you really should take
a key to the shop. You arent Do you share your knowledge action or find someone who will.
the one in charge; you arent even on or not? And by the way, greet the woman
the clock yet. Itll be 15 minutes before Youre at a social event and youre waiting in your shops driveway and
someone else gets in to open the shop. at the microphone making announce- ask if theres anything you can do to
But theres a woman in the driveway ments when an emergency arises. It assist her until the shop opens. Even if
who was just looking in the front isnt your event; youre just reading theres nothing you can do for her, its
door. Shes returned to her car and is some announcements. just common courtesy.
sending an email on her cell phone. Do you address the emergency In instances of inconvenience or
Obviously the reason shes there is or wait for someone in charge to mere awkwardness, its up to you to
related to your shop. take over? act or not. But in every instance, if you
So what do you do? Okay, I get it: Most of these are find a need, find a way to fill it. If you
Youre in the shopping mall awkward situations where you arent cant do it personally, contact someone
to grab a quick lunch and theres a really the one who should take action; who can. If it isnt within your
kid probably about 6 years old in some cases youd be unwelcome or authority, notify someone who has the
wandering among the racks in unpopular for doing so. But let me ask authority. If you arent sure what to do,
the store next door and there doesnt you a question: If you dont, who will? seek advice.
appear to be any adults nearby. Its Nearly everyone remembers the Remember, the situation exists
probably okay; someone is surely story of Kitty Genovese, the young whether youre connected to it or not.
keeping an eye on him or are they? woman who was stabbed to death If you see a need, please consider
What do you do? outside her New York apartment while this question:
The guy in the service bay is dozens of neighbors ignored her cries If you dont take action, who will?
standing directly under an unsecured for help. Was it their job to step in?
load. He seems to know what hes Yeah, I think it was.
doing and it really isnt your place to It may take some finesse or
tell him what to do. diplomacy to handle some of these
Do you speak up or just hope for situations, but they can be handled. Jim Cathcart is a strategic adviser for ATRA and
the best? For example: At any event where a contributing editor to GEARS Magazine. His
A crowd is gathering down the youre the one with the spotlight or 17th book, The Self Motivation Handbook, was
block and things are getting loud. It microphone, youre also the one person just published and is now available on Amazon.
looks like some kind of demonstration at that moment who can do the most Contact him at www.TheMotivationExpert.com
or protest. You recognize the leader of to address any emergency. So take
the group from a previous encounter. action and call for a doctor, evacuate
Maybe you could say or do something the building, or find a solution. Youre
to calm the mood. in charge as long as you have the
Should you speak up or just microphone.
remain silent? When it comes to safety, like
Youre at a dinner with friends the unattended child in the store,
and they start discussing a subject the unsecured load hanging above

GEARS December 2016 41

1chatcart 1216.indd 41 11/29/16 12:38 PM


THE REVENUE GROWTH HABIT

T
he election is over. The
holidays approach and
the new year is just around
the corner.
Lets talk about your plan to grow
sales in 2017.
Do you have one? How much time
have you spent thinking about how
youll grow your revenue next year?
by Alex Goldfayn Because heres the thing about
CEO, Evangelist Marketing Institute revenue growth: Its a proactive
pursuit. We must make time for it.
Sales might grow if we go through
our days and weeks reactively, from
one incoming customer inquiry to
another. But we cant plan for this kind
of growth. If the right customers call,
we might grow. If the wrong inquiries
come in, we wont.
The only logical, strategic,
repeatable way to grow is to be
proactive and purposeful about your
business. So here are four specific
actions you can implement to grow
your business in 2017. Which ones will
you do?
In general, pick up the phone.
Call instead of email. Call instead of
text. We dont like to use the phone
because we do everything we can to
avoid rejection, and rejection on the
phone is intimate. It goes into your
ear. Wed rather not call, and not know,
than call and risk rejection. Want to
stand out? Pick up the phone. Default
to the phone.

42 GEARS December 2016

1AlexGoldfayn 1216.indd 42 11/29/16 12:41 PM


I have to say, its somewhat But personal notes, which mention
embarrassing how much I get paid something youve recently talked about
to tell people to use the phone. But or experienced with the customer or
what do you think happens when we prospect, are truly rare.
implement systems that double or I hear from nearly every single
triple your phone hours each week? person who gets a handwritten note
Sales have no choice but to go up! from me about how grateful and
Specifically, make the follow-up appreciative they are. Why? Because
phone call: Tom, its Alex. How are people dont get handwritten notes MAKE SURE THEY OPEN
you? Hows it going with that thing we any more. YOUR NOTE
talked about (or that quote I sent)? Ask the did you know?
Alexs suggestion for a hand-
Just like that. question: Your customer only knows
written note is a terrific idea;
When we follow up, we show about 20% of the services you offer.
one thats sure to catch a lot of
people that were interested, that Isnt that tragic? They need much of
peoples attention. But, if you
we care. We arent bothering them, what you can do for them. In fact, they
imposing on them, or taking their probably buy it from your competition. want to make sure they open your
time. Do you think people get a lot And both you and the customer know note, there are a couple additional
of follow-up phone calls during their theyd be better off if they bought things to remember.
day? Do you? Exactly. Most people from you. To begin with, address the
dont get follow-up calls because most So ask them, Did you know we envelope by hand. Dont run it
salespeople dont like following up. also do x? Ask them. Even if youve through a computer printer and
Ask for referrals: Tom, who do asked them before, ask again. Just no labels. Write the address and
you know like yourself who would en- because weve told customers we do the return address neatly by hand.
joy working with me the way you have? something doesnt mean they know! Then use a real stamp on the
Then let Tom answer. Be quiet Now look over this list of envelope; preferably a nice, over-
and listen. Blink if you have to. Sing techniques to grow your sales. Does sized, commemorative stamp.
a song in your head if you must. But it cost a lot of money to execute these No indicias and no postage
dont talk first. Tom wasnt thinking techniques? No. It costs no money. registers.
about your referral for hours the way Does it take a lot of time? No. It takes Its amazing how many peo-
youve been thinking about asking him mere moments to make each of these ple sort their mail based on the
for it. So let Tom think and come up communications. envelope. Envelopes sporting
with a referral for you. Revenue growth is easy: The indicias or postage registers often
One note here: People love giving more people hear from you, the more end up right in the trash, without
referrals, because it makes them look they buy from you. Here are five ways
ever being opened. Same with
good. To the person theyre referring for your customers and prospects to
mailing labels or computer print-
and to you. So, if your customers hear from you. Which of these actions
ed addresses.
would love to give us referrals, then will you take now, today, and in the
why dont we ask them for them? new year? So, if you want even more
Because they would if we would. people to read and appreciate
We dont ask because of fear. It your handwritten notes,
overwhelms us. What if they dont Alex Goldfayn runs The Revenue address the envelopes by hand
give us one? What if they dont like us Growth Consultancy, which helps companies and use stamps.
as much as we think? What if I make and sales departments grow revenue
them uncomfortable? What if I lose the quickly and easily by implementing a system
customer! of simple communications techniques.
It doesnt work that way. People To discuss growing your business in this
want to help their friends and way, email alex@evangelistmktg.com or call
colleagues and youre of tremendous Alex at 847-459-6322.
value to them. Of course theyd refer His latest book, The Revenue Growth
you, if only youd asked. So ask! Habit, was named the 2015 Sales Book
Write handwritten notes: of the Year by 800-CEO-Read. Buy it at
Not thank you notes, but personal Amazon.com.
notes. Thank you notes are easy.

GEARS December 2016 43

1AlexGoldfayn 1216.indd 43 11/29/16 12:41 PM


SHOP PROFILE

by Steve Bodofsky
members.atra.com

Chips Transmissions
Builds Success by Knowing
Who Their Customers Are

O
ne of the most important tools for building a
successful shop is being able to identify your
market. Specializing in Fords in an upscale mar-
ket where most of your potential customers are driving
Mercedes and BMWs would be a recipe for failure.
Phil Sims, the owner of Chips Transmissions in
Sevierville, Tennessee, understands this. And hes built
his business model around attracting and catering to his
specific market. Its a business model thats helped him
grow into three shops near the eastern Tennessee border.
So how does their market differ from others around
the country? For one thing, it has a very strong tourist
presence. Were at the foot of the Great Smokey
Mountains National Park, explains Phil. So they have
a lot of people burning up their transmissions going up
and down the mountains, or hauling campers without
adding a cooler to the transmission lines.
With such a strong dependence on out-of-town
customers, their membership in ATRA has been critical
to their success. A huge part of our business comes
from tourists, so the Golden Rule Warranty is a valuable
resource, explains Phil. Its been instrumental to our
success.
Not that we wouldnt sell transmission repairs.
But itd be hard to compete with the remans, because
they carry nationwide warranties.
And, while Chips has been known to use the
occasional reman when the situation warranted,
at heart theyre still a custom rebuild shop. Phil Sims, the owner of Chips Transmissions in Sevierville, Tennessee

44 GEARS December 2016

1shop profile1216.indd 44 11/28/16 8:55 AM


Chips Transmissions Crew, back row L to R: Mark Webb, Terrell Cox, John Rickard, Tony Domko, Ray Schultz, Lester Fredlund,
Front row L to R: Spencer Lemmerman, John Bolden, Phil Sims and John West

Im kind of old school


in that I believe that
our industry is stronger
if we rebuild our own
transmissions versus
buying them, says Phil.
But tourists are
only one part of their
market; another big part
is commercial, including
trucks and farm equipment.
While theyve always tried
to serve those commercial
customers, Phil really
kicked that into high gear
in 2011 when he opened
Unique furniture in the waiting is from one of Phil's partners, a sculptor who owns Man Cave Metals.
Chips Diesel Repair.
His third shop Chips in 2000, became a partner in the shop hotel because I wasnt making enough
Trans-mission and Car Care is a in 2007, and took over the business in money fixing cars. Thats when Chip
full-service shop, catering to the local 2011. approached me about coming to work
customers as well as tourists visiting They opened a full-service shop for him.
the area. Having a general repair shop Chips Transmission and Car Care In 2007, I started receiving some
has been a valuable addition to their later in 2007. While Phil bought the really tempting job offers, so Chip
business model, because the three shops entire transmission shop in 2011, Chip talked me into becoming a partner in
now refer customers to one another, still retains part ownership in the full- the business. We opened our second
keeping each other busy. service shop. Phil opened a third shop shop Chips Transmission and Car
If knowing your market is key in 2012: Chips Diesel Repair. Care in Seymour, Tennessee later
to success, Phil should be positioned How did Phil and Chip begin their that year.
perfectly for his region. relationship? I came to work for Chip In 2011, Chip decided it was time
in 2000, explains Phil. At the time I for him to retire. He sold me the rest
A Little History was working as an R&R technician and of the transmission shop; he remained
John Chip Stewart opened the rebuilder for another shop in town. I a minority owner in the general repair
transmission shop in 1985. Phil came had some management experience, too; shop. I opened Chips Diesel Repair in
on as a service writer and technician I worked as a night manager for a local 2012, right near the transmission shop.
GEARS December 2016 45

1shop profile1216.indd 45 11/28/16 8:55 AM


Chips Transmissions Builds Success by Knowing Who Their Customers Are

Fair and the warranty. But in general, the most


Reasonable successful shops are the ones who do
Transmission stand behind their work even when
warranties are always the transmission is technically outside
a point of contention. of warranty. Phil has just expanded
How long do you cover on that, and is using it to build his
the transmission? What reputation.
if it fails a few miles or
a few months outside the Unique Marketing
warranty? Should you take Approach
responsibility for those For most shops today, marketing
In 2001, Phil started moving units? focuses on a web site. And Chips is no
into performance transmissions, built Phil thinks so and much more. different there:
for use with hotrods and diesels that Thats why he developed what he Chips Transmissions:
demand a stronger unit. That made a likes to call his Fair and Reasonable www.chipstranz.com
big difference in our bottom line, he warranty. We prorate a 100,000-mile Chips Transmission and Car Care:
says. warranty on top of any other warranty www.chipscarcare.com
We started as the east coast we offer. Its like this: If we did our jobs What about TV and radio ads?
distributor for Diesel Transmissions right, it should go 100,000 miles. If it Some shops do really well with them,
Technology (DTT) in Canada. They doesnt, we want to know why. but that type of marketing isnt as
approached us about becoming a Were not going to cover it 100% effective in an area that depends heavily
rebuilder/installer shop for them. Thats free, but well prorate our coverage on the tourist trade. Same thing with
what introduced us to that market. based on 100,000 miles. So if one of billboards: A lot of shops do well with
We had a lot of experience with our customers has a failure after 50,000 them, but in a tourist area, billboards
drag racing transmissions, but the diesel miles maybe the grandson borrowed are extremely pricy. Youre competing
trucks were an entirely different animal, the car, got it stuck in the mud, and with Dollywood and Dixie Stampede,
with the torque they had to produce. It burned the transmission up well explains Phil.
was a huge learning curve, especially split the cost of the repair 50/50 with But he has found that he does well
warrantying a transmission that was the customer. Our customers love that. with some other marketing programs:
handling 700-800 horsepower and Lets face it: If you build For one thing, hes tied into
developing 1500-1800 lb-ft of torque. a transmission and cover it with a Moving Targets; a marketing company
But it really helped our business. 12-month/12,000-mile warranty, and that includes coupons for his shop for
We started the Bulletproof it goes bad in 18,000 miles, youre people moving into the area. Its a
Transmission line and selling heavy probably going to cover it anyway. So terrific and relatively low-cost way to
duty transmissions under that name. you might as well get some accolades reach potential new customers while
Thats when that part of the business for it. theyre still getting their bearings in a
really took off. Well maybe. Of course, weve all new town.
Since then, the Bulletproof market heard that argument go the other way, Another thing that Phil has been
has tapered off, but its still part of the too, where the shop wont cover the very successful with is pens. You
business model at Chips Transmissions. transmission once it goes a mile over read that right: ballpoint pens with his
46 GEARS December 2016

1shop profile1216.indd 46 11/28/16 8:55 AM


Phil is also partnered with a sculptor
who owns a business called Man
Cave Metals. He takes auto parts
transmission parts and turns them
into artwork.

transmission was just a year or so


Chips puts his name out there through a cross promotion with the local
away. The industry was beginning
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) organization.
a major shift that were still feeling,
so it was no wonder that Chips
company name and phone number on Chips sponsors shows in his would be interested in what ATRA had
them. area, and the promoter books shows in to offer.
We live in an area with a ton of several nearby towns. I go to all of the And, of course, the Golden Rule
restaurants, says Phil. The wait staff shows in the area and Ill meet people Warranty was another key advantage
dont make a lot of money and many outside, and if they have a breakdown to becoming a Member. The Golden
of them have to buy their own pens. while theyre in the area for a show, Rule Warranty was instrumental in the
And then customers take them after who are they going to call? shops success. Being able to offer the
signing their credit card receipt. I go In addition to sponsoring the local customer a warranty that would protect
around and hand out my yellow-and- shows, Phil also sponsors Adam Prime them when they went home thats
black pens regularly. Theyre there, Time Townsend, a local fighter whos the only way you can sell a job to most
they write well, theyre free, and they getting ready to move up to the UFC. customers, particularly those who live
make their jobs a lot easier. And there are other ways that Phil out of the area.
And, when they get stolen, its builds his shops reputation, including It made it possible for us to
really great advertising. I get people sponsoring a Toys-for-Tots program compete with the big chains. Without
coming in all the time saying the each year. Well give people $10 off ATRA, wed never have been as
waitress gave me your pen and I have a an oil change if they donate a new toy successful as weve been, or developed
problem with my car. for the program. the reputation we have today.
Phil is also partnered with a And, while it isnt a particularly
sculptor who owns a business called Chips and ATRA common situation, Chips has had to take
Man Cave Metals. He takes auto parts Chips has been an ATRA Member advantage of the Golden Rule Warranty,
transmission parts and turns since about a year after they opened; from both sides of the program. While
them into artwork. We have stools he they had one of the lowest Member its never what youd hope for, Phil can
made out of transmission cases; theyre numbers on the east coast. say that hes been very satisfied with
awesome! The reason for joining ATRA? the help hes received from other ATRA
I give him parts, he creates the Mostly the training and information, Members, and hes been proud to honor
artwork, and we sell it. And he sends says Phil. Thats been instrumental the warranty when a another Members
me a lot of work because they run into for providing technical data, updates, work comes into his shop.
car people who ask where can I get my and support. Lets face it: If you have a No doubt about it: One of the most
transmission repaired? transmission on the bench that youve important qualities for a successful
One other way that Chips never worked on before, youll need to shop is knowing and serving your
puts his name out there is through call someone! market. So its no surprise that Chips
a cross promotion with the local And, when Chips joined ATRA, it Transmissions and their accompanying
Mixed Martial Arts (MMA) was an important time in our industry. stores are doing well, and will likely
organization. I was surprised in the By that time the first transaxles and remain successful for years to come.
beginning; I didnt think wed get lockup converters were making their
much out of it. But we see a good way into the aftermarket shops, and
amount of work from it. the first fully computer-controlled
GEARS December 2016 47

1shop profile1216.indd 47 11/28/16 8:55 AM


by Frank Pasley,
GEARS Magazine & ATRA

I
t was odark hundred at the Paris
Hotel and Casino, Thursday
morning, October 27, 2016, as
some 60, bleary-eyed golfers made
their way to the bus for ATRAs
Powertrain Expo Golf Tournament at
Angel Park Golf Course, Las Vegas.
No one could have predicted what was
waiting for us.
Expo Golf has been on the back
burner at ATRA for the last few
years. Sure, a few people played golf
on Thursdays before the trade show
opened, but the work required for a
real tournament was simply beyond
the capacity of ATRAs hard-working L-R; Tournament organizer, Mike Avila, of Slausons Transmission Parts along with
staff. hole sponsor, Joe De Santino, of JDS Worldwide present Tim Ellwanger with the
This year, one man Mike winning check for his hole-in-one with GEARS magazines Frank Pasley
Avila of Slauson Transmission Parts
wanted to bring back the good old It was also witnessed by non- day none of us will forget especially
days by convincing sponsors to come playing observers Chris Wilson Tim Ellwanger. Congratulations Tim,
up with money for the bus; a light of Slauson, Steve Deckard of JDS it couldnt have happened to a nicer
breakfast; a putting contest; long drive Worldwide, and my charming wife ATRA Good Guy!
hole; a full, sit-down lunch; tee prizes; Charis Pasley, a real trooper who got The scramble format was a lot of
a $30,000 hole-in-one contest; and the up at 4:30 in the morning to sit and fun, making every player a winner.
all-important drink tickets for every watch people play the same golf hole The biggest winner wasnt Tim
group. And bring it back he did, in fine for a few hours in return for a nice or Mike; it was the transmission
fashion, too! lunch and some unexpected fun. rebuilding industry. We saw the
The day started routinely enough The odds of making a hole in fiercest of business competitors,
with a continental breakfast, getting one is 12,500 to 1 according to Golf Supplier Members, and shop owners
nice rental clubs, placing bags on the Digest; a once-in-a-lifetime day for talking, enjoying their mutual interest
right carts, and getting organized. most golfers. But why were there and friendship. Oh what a day it was!
Then the putting contest started. so many witnesses? Well, ATRA Thank you Mike Avila and
The winner was Hector Gonzales Supplier Member Joe De Santino sponsors:
of Slauson Transmission Parts, of JDS Worldwide sponsored Hole Transgo
with 2nd place to Rob Ganzeboom, 4 with a $30,000 prize, insured by Rostra Transmission
Ganzeboom Transmission Parts in American Hole N One. To get a claim Precision International
The Netherlands. Some of us had zero paid for a hole in one by any insurance JDS Worldwide
points, but it was a fun start to great company requires a lot of independent, Alto Products
day in beautiful Las Vegas. disinterested eyeballs, with notarized TransTec
Angel Park Hole #4, a 170-yard, affidavits to prove it was on the up and Wolfpack Enterprises
par 3, was where the magic happened. up. This hole in one was totally legit! WIT
Playing in Group 13, Tim Ellwanger Word of Tims hole in one spread Slauson Transmission Parts
of Borg Warner made a hole in one! across Angel Park Golf Course like a
It was witnessed by his three playing desert wildfire. Joe De Santino was
partners: Tom Hardies of Borg Warner, happy he bought the insurance, too!
and Bill Fantozz and Troy Eakins, both The same excitement was there when
of Seal Aftermarket Products. Expos Trade show opened. It was a
48 GEARS December 2016

1Golf 1216.indd 48 11/29/16 12:42 PM


SAVE THE DATE
OCTOBER 19 - 22
PARIS LAS VEGAS

hosted by

www.powertrainexpo.com
See You Next Year_GEARS Full Page Ad.indd 1 11/30/16 10:25 AM
Paris Is for Expo!

I
n the 1954 Because, on October 26, 2016, the
movie, Sabrina, Paris Las Vegas Hotel and Casino was
Humphrey overrun by the elite of transmission
Bogarts character tells repair, on hand to attend this years
Sabrina that Paris is for lov- Expo.
ers. Maybe thats why I stayed They came from all across the
only thirty-five minutes. country from the four corners of the
He might have been right. But globe! to learn to share and to
over the last week in October, Paris work together to help build a stronger,
was for the automatic transmission more productive future for us all. And I
repair professional. think its fair to say that, by the time we
left, it was mission accomplished.

50 GEARS December 2016

show wrap1216.indd 50 11/28/16 7:58 AM


Thursday
For the folks attending the technical
seminars, it was a busy event, with nearly
24 hours of technical training packed into
a four-day extravaganza. It began at 8am
Thursday morning, and the seminars kept
going until 6pm, with an hour break for
lunch.
The seminars covered a wide range of
subjects, including diagnostic procedures,
computer reprogramming, and details on
specific transmissions and systems.
Management started later, as
management often does. They kicked
off at 3pm with a seminar from GEARS
Managing Editor Rodger Bland, offering
a new approach to successful thinking.
He was followed by Danny Sanchez, who
talked about updating your web presence
for mobile applications.
The seminars ended together and
everyone got together for a welcome
reception of pizza and ice cream, hosted
by ATRA. It was a chance for those
in attendance to reconnect with old
friends and catch up in an atmosphere of
camaraderie.

Friday
The morning began at 8am with the
annual ATRA Member Meeting, where
Members got a chance to hear about
ATRAs plans for the future and weigh in
on programs theyd like ATRA to tackle in
the year ahead.
The tech seminars cranked up again
at 8am, with a seminar on rebuild tips
and tricks, followed by a seminar on ZF
diagnostics.
GEARS December 2016 See more EXPO Photos at: www.flickr.com/photos/70397541@N06 (case sensitive) 51

show wrap1216.indd 51 11/28/16 7:58 AM


Paris Is for Expo!

Management seminars began the trade show. The trade show bustled
at 9am, with the return of Bill Hass with activity, and everyone seemed
who spoke about the value of adding pleased with the turnout.
an apprentice/mentor program to The ATRA Chapter Planning
your business. He was followed by Meeting took place at 4pm and was
GEARS Contributing Editor Thom well attended.
Tschetter, who discussed his cure Then everyone got together for an
for entrepreneurial split personality evening of hors doeuvres, drinks, and
disorder. music at the annual Transtar Cocktail
These seminars led into the annual Reception. Those in attendance were
ATRA luncheon, hosted as always treated to an oldies band and the
by Raybestos Powertrain. It opened festivities went on until 9pm.
with the events keynote speaker, Jeff
Havens, who kept the audience in Saturday
stitches as he cleared up the confusion Saturday marked the introduction
between the various generations within of an entirely new program for Expo:
the business world. Turns out it was Transmissions 101. This was a series
way simpler and funnier! than of three distinct seminars R&R 101,
anyone might have suspected. Diagnostics 101, and Transmissions
Immediately afterward, ATRA 101 targeted to the entry-level
presented its Distinguished Supplier technician or industry educator.
Award for 2016 to TransTec for their Each seminar presented the
ongoing support for ATRAs training fundamentals necessary for anyone
programs and industry service. hoping to begin a career in the
GEARS International Sales Manager transmission repair industry. And ATRA
Frank Pasley presented the award to provided free attendance for young
TransTecs Senior Marketing Manager people and educators who wanted to
Patty Richards and Aftermarket Sales take part in the program.
Manager John Galloway. While Transmissions 101
Raybestos also announced the was going on, the regular technical
winners of the Race with Raybestos and management seminars began.
competition. There were three first- Tech covered scan tool diagnostics,
prize winners: Jim Coehlo, Ben Pippin, driveability, and network
and Justin Griffiths. All three received communications.
a trip for two to Expo. Unfortunately, The management seminar began
Justin was unable to attend due to flight with something old and something new:
delays. Longtime ATRA seminar presenter
Raybestos also drew the Maylan Newton brought his son, Chase,
winning name for their grand prize: to help everyone get a firsthand look at
the Ferrari Driving Experience from the different mindsets between the old-
SPEEDVEGAS. And the winner was timers and the millennials. It was an
Jim Coehlo! Congratulations to all the eye-opening presentation for everyone.
Race with Raybestos winners! They were followed by GEARS
After the awards, everyone enjoyed Contributing Editor Alex Goldfayn,
a sumptuous lunch and then those in who offered his insights for revenue
attendance moved on to the opening of growth.
52 GEARS December 2016

show wrap1216.indd 52 11/28/16 7:58 AM


At noon, the trade show floor opened again. At
2pm, ATRA Technical Director Lance Wiggins hosted
an Education to Industry Summit, which gave those
in attendance an opportunity to learn what ATRA was
doing to help introduce new technicians to the industry
and offer their suggestions.
At 3pm, the Burgundy room was filled with the
smell of BENGAY and creaking joints as the ATRA
Longtimers got together for their annual meeting.

Sunday
Sunday morning, those who remained on hand
were treated to a buffet breakfast and an industry call-
to-arms All Hands on Deck: Building a Winning
Shop hosted by ATRAs Lance
Wiggins and ATRAs Strategic Advisor
Jim Cathcart.
Jim was his usual, engaging self, and
he peppered his presentation with original
songs, accompanying himself on guitar.
It was a powerful and heartwarming
ending to an amazing four days.
If you didnt make it to Expo this
year, well, that ship has sailed. But,
unlike so many other opportunities, it
will knock again. Because next year,
once again, Paris is for Expo! Just 11
months from now, next years Expo will
take place at the Paris Las Vegas Hotel
and Casino, on the world-famous Strip.
And next years show will be a week
earlier October 1922, 2017. So if
youve been avoiding Expo so you can
be home to celebrate Halloween, well,
you have no more excuses: Start making
your plans now to join us next year in
Paris!

GEARS December 2016 See more EXPO Photos at: www.flickr.com/photos/70397541@N06 (case sensitive) 53

show wrap1216.indd 53 11/28/16 7:58 AM


POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
GEARS does not endorse new products but makes this new information available
POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS to readers. If you have a new product, please email the press release information
with applicable digital photo or drawing to apena@atra.com or send by mail to
GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030.

Freudenberg-NOK In addition to supplying the time. His experience selling insurance


Honored by ATRA with 2016 industry with cutting-edge transmission translated perfectly into the world of
Distinguished Supplier rebuild kits, Freudenberg-NOK is advertising sales.
Award committed to providing the automatic Frank has always known how
transmission repair industry with to reach out to our advertisers and
training and information through get them on board, says GEARS
support of ATRAs ongoing industry Managing Editor Rodger Bland. His
training programs, regional seminars sales technique was perfect for our
and online webinar series. industry, and his personable nature
The 2016 Powertrain Expo is the made him a favorite for businesses all
worlds largest trade show dedicated around the world.
to the automatic transmission repair To honor Franks many years with
industry. Freudenberg-NOK showcased the Association, the folks at GEARS
its TransTec line of products at the and ATRA assembled a vast array of
Patty Richards receiving the Distinguished event. Accepting the award on behalf suppliers and business associates for a
Supplier Award. L to R: Frank Pasley, GEARS of the TransTec brand were Senior surprise retirement party at Ballys in
Magazine International Sales Manager, Marketing Manager Patty Richards Las Vegas. Probably the most amazing
John Galloway, TransTec brand Aftermarket and Aftermarket Sales Manager John thing about it was that it remained a
Sales Manager, Patty Richards, Galloway. The award was presented surprise till Frank opened the door!
TransTec brand Senior Marketing Manager, by Frank Pasley, International Sales During the event, Frank received
and Dennis Madden, ATRA CEO.
Manager for ATRAs award winning awards for his service from ATRA,
industry publication GEARS Magazine. Transtar, and the ATRA Midwest
F r e u d e n b e rg - N O K Sealing For more information about Chapter. He did his best to remain
Technologies, a leading producer of Freudenberg-NOKs TransTec brand, jovial, but there was little doubt that he
advanced sealing technologies for please visit www.transtec.com. was moved beyond words.
a variety of industrial markets, has While he may be retired, theres
been awarded the 2016 Distinguished Frank Pasley Retires after virtually no chance hell be slowing
Supplier Award by the Automatic 24 Years with ATRA and down anytime soon. His plans for the
Transmission Rebuilders Association GEARS Magazine future involve plenty of time on the
(ATRA). The company received the golf course and some light travel with
award in recognition of its TransTec his wife, Charis.
brand of transmission rebuild kits that Enjoy yourself Frank, youve
are used by the automotive aftermarket earned it: May your investments always
industry. be above par and your game always
The Distinguished Supplier Award below!
honors companies that offer exceptional
service and support to the automatic SAP Now Offers Full Nissan
transmission industry. CVT Component Coverage
ATRA, the largest and most
respected association of automatic ATRA CEO, Dennis Madden presents Frank
transmission rebuilders and suppliers Pasley with an award recognizing Frank's 24
in the world, presented the award to years of service to ATRA and GEARS Magazine.
Freudenberg-NOK for its TransTec
brand at 2016 Powertrain Expo at the Frank Pasley has retired from
Paris Hotel and Casino in Las Vegas. GEARS Magazine after serving for 24
Its been my honor to know and years as its International Sales Manager.
work with the folks responsible for Frank announced his retirement plans Seal Aftermarket Productsis
Freudenberg-NOKs TransTec brand nearly a year ago and made it official pleased to announce the immediate
over the years, said ATRA CEO right after this years Expo. availability of a full line ofCVT
Dennis Madden. Their dedication Frank began working with ATRA overhaul kits and components for
to the industry has helped provide before GEARS came into being, Nissan vehicles, covering from 1992
technicians with critical support for providing insurance advice to ATRA through the present.
the rapidly changing technology they Members. When GEARS first started Visit Seal Aftermarket Products
face every day. They were the obvious rolling off the presses, the management on line at www.sealsap.com for more
choice for this years award. team asked Frank to come onboard full information.
54 GEARS December 2016

1PINS 1216 v2.indd 54 11/29/16 12:45 PM


Alto Introduces Sonnax Introduces Also available separately: pump
New 6T40/45 Kits GM 4L60/65/70-E bolt kit, P/N 4464.
Vacuum Test Plate These kits are available for
immediate delivery. For more, visit
TransTec at www.TransTec.com.

Tim Corcoran Is New


Director, Strategy and
Vision at ZF Aftermarket
Alto P/N 204351AU Empty Drum Assembly

Alto Products Corp is pleased to


offer a 4-5-6/3-5-R drum assembly and
three-ring support.
Alto kit P/N 204550 includes a Find valve body problems two
loaded drum assembly, three-ring times faster with the new GM 4L60-E,
support, sealing rings, and retaining 4L65-E, and 4L70-E vacuum test plate
bolts. kit, P/N 77754-VTP!
Alto kit P/N 204550A includes The plate and seal fit securely over
an empty drum assembly, three-ring the entire valve body casting, to seal
Tim Corcoran, Director, Strategy and Vision.
support, sealing rings, and retaining all the critical valve body passages at
bolts. once. Strategically located test ports On January 1, 2017, ZF Services
Alto P/N 204352 is a new, three- and exhaust holes allow all key casting and TRW Aftermarket will perform
ring support with sealing rings and areas to be vacuum tested quickly by as one unified organization. The
retaining bolts. just moving the vacuum test tip. new ZF Aftermarket will realign
Alto P/N 204351AU is a new Clear test plate and silicone pad seal its organizational positioning in
empty drum assembly. entire casting for quick, easy testing. business models, which better suits
All of these parts are generation 2 Open ports at key areas identify to the globalizing structures of their
components and will back service to recommended test locations. customers.
2006 when used together as a set. Easy-to-follow instruction booklet At the same time, Tim Corcoran,
Visit www.altousa.com For more identifies ports, valves, symptoms of managing director, region North
information on this series and other wear, and the right Sonnax parts for America, will step out of his current
Alto products. repair. operational responsibility and serve
Visit www.sonnax.com to view all the unified organization as director,
Precision Introduces available vacuum test plate kits. strategy and vision until his retirement
Kit for Ford HV35 July 1, 2018.
TransTec Introduces Corcoran has been with ZF for
New ZF Kit for more than 27 years, starting as a
2009-up 8-Speed remanufacturing engineer. He has held
positions in remanufacturing, sales,
operations, technical service, and a
range of executive management roles
for the last 20 years.
ZFs conviction to change the
market dynamic driven activities as
well as our customer-oriented approach
are key factors for ZFs leading role in
Precision International is pleased the global aftermarket, says Corcoran.
ZF8HP70 RWD/AWD 8-speed step transmission.
to introduce its newest kit for the Ford The company is well prepared for the
HF35 electronic continuously variable TransTec is pleased to introduce opportunities and challenges ahead.
transmission. Kit KP59900U services kit 2659, a complete rebuild kit with Being part of ZFs success story is a
Ford and Lincoln vehicles from 2012- pistons for the ZF8HP70 RWD/AWD real source of pride and I am looking
15 equipped with the HF35 eCVT. 8-speed step transmission. forward to support the North American
The kit includes all seals necessary These units appear in a wide range team in my new role.
for a complete transmission rebuild, of 2009-up BMWs. According to Helmut Ernst, head
and is available for immediate delivery. The kit includes an OE molded of ZF Services and future CEO of ZF
For more, visit Precision on line at rubber pan gasket, genuine NOK and Aftermarket, Tim always impressed
www.transmissionkits.com. other OEM seals. me with his open-mindedness to new
GEARS December 2016 55

1PINS 1216 v2.indd 55 11/29/16 12:45 PM


POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
ideas, his entrepreneurial behavior, and Superior Introduces by major specialty companies and
an absolute customer focus. With the Their New Web Site brand-linked car repair shops using
customer in mind, it was important for original parts.
us to retain his North American market Minor companies have found it
knowledge, future technology visioning hard to compete, in part because of the
and product development expertise. difficulty in sourcing alternatives to
Visit ZF on line at www.zf.com. original spare parts.
A new spare parts catalog
New 48RE Rooster Comb from LBM Autoparts makes this
and Plastic Insulator considerably easier. The catalog
from A & A Transmission contains over 500 spare parts from
leading suppliers for brands such as
Opel, VW, Ford and Renault.
LBM Autoparts, with its head office
outside Gothenburg, Sweden, has
Superior Transmission Parts is invested for many years in becoming
proud to announce the release of its a full-service supplier of transmission
updated web site. This new site has parts for the thousands of minor
Plastic Insulator P/N 22770PI all available products from Superior transmission specialists and workshops
Transmission Parts and Fairbanks located around Europe. The aim is to
Performance Products. make it easier for these companies to
The new site offers updated pictures source and purchase spare parts, but
of all the kits, distributor locations also to carry out actual remanufacturing
with phone numbers, product search work.
capabilities with advanced search, For example, LBM Autoparts
seminars and training that Superior has launched complete bearing kits
will be attending and participating in, for manual transmissions that have
a downloadable catalog, whats new, been highly successful in the market.
ways to reach Superiors staff, and the Bearing and seal kits make the
48RE Rooster Comb P/N 22770RC48 history of company. remanufacturing work easier, and the
Take a minute and look over new spare parts catalog will make it
The 48RE transmission was Superiors new site and see why, easier and more convenient for minor
introduced in the Dodge truck line every day, more and more builders companies to offer additional services.
in 2003. After a few years and higher are making the shift to Superior For more information about LBM
mileage, they developed a problem Transmission Parts. Autoparts new catalog, contact Erik
with the small plastic insulator attached Visit Superior on line at www. Stlebo, CEO, LBM Autoparts AB,
to the rooster comb/shift lever. Thats superiortransmission.com. Phone, direct: +46 705 333 717, email:
the part that lets the PRND21 switch erik@lbmautoparts.se
tell the computer what gear the LBM Autoparts
transmission. Introduces New Sonnax Welcomes
A & A had the tooling manufactured Parts Catalog New Remanufacturing
and is reproducing this small but very Operations Director
important piece in a better material to Sonnax Industries is pleased to
help outlast the original. announce the appointment of Mark
The rooster comb/shift lever has Spaseff as director of remanufacturing
also become an item that wears over operations. In this newly-created role
time. A & A took on the challenge of he will lead day-to-day operations,
reproducing this much needed part. including assembly, machining, and
These rooster combs are manufactured product development, at the companys
to the same quality as the original, Paulsboro, N.J., facility.
making this just the answer to restoring Spaseff comes to Sonnax with
the transmission's shift mechanism and experience in engineering and
signal to the computer back to better- management positions, including 20
than-new condition. Europe has a large market for years with Volvo Group/Mack Trucks
Plastic Insulator P/N 22770PI the remanufacturing of manual and eight years running its Middletown,
48RE Rooster Comb P/N 22770RC48 transmissions and dual clutch Penn., engine and truck component
Quantity discounts are available. transmissions (DSG/DCT) for light remanufacturing facility. He takes over
For more, visit A & A Transmission vehicles. Traditionally, remanufacturing for the retiring founder of Valve Body
on line at www.aandatrans.com. services have mostly been offered Xpress, Tim LaCerra.
56 GEARS December 2016

1PINS 1216 v2.indd 56 11/29/16 12:45 PM


Shortly after his arrival in New Ring Installer the possibilities of mounting surfaces
September, Spaseff promoted Julie Tees and Resizer Set beyond the standard ferrous metal. The
to manufacturing operations manager from Adapt-A-Case magnets on this unit are also protected
and Ula Fernandes to manufacturing by felt to prevent the possibility of
support manager. damaging a surface.
Tees, a co-founder of Valve Body This LED strobe light bar is SAE
Xpress who previously directed Class 1 rated and produces 4 times
support activities, including shipping, the amount of light as a Class 2 rated
receiving, and customer service, will strobe light, said Rob Bresnahan,
supervise staff and monitor workflow CEO of Larson Electronics. Class
from core preparation through finished 1 strobe lights are typically ideal for
goods. emergency vehicles such as police, fire,
Fernandes, who joined Sonnax and ambulance.
in 2014 to support Tees, will be To view the companys wide range
responsible for production planning, of products, visit them on the web at
performance metrics, inventory, and Larsonelectronics.com or call (800)
on-site safety. 369-6671.
Bob Gibson continues in his role as Adapt-A-Case has just released
technical director, completing Spaseffs their latestRing Installer and Resizer Cottman Takes Top Honor
management team. set. This set P/N T-47768SAC is for Web-based Educational
For more, visit Sonnax on line at designed for the solid Teflon rings used Car Care Video Series
www.Sonnax.com. on the input shaft in 6L80 and 6L90 Cottman Transmission and Total
transmissions. Auto Care announced that it has
Doug Henry Is ACT Groups The new set is available now won the Platinum Award in the 2016
New Associate Coach through your favorite transmission Summit Marketing Effectiveness
and Trainer parts supplier. Awards (MEA) competition.
For more, visit Adapt-A-Case on The Summit MEA competition
line at www.adaptacase.com. is based on the premise that the goal
of marketing communications is to
Larson Electronics change, influence, or reinforce a target
Releases 32-Watt Mini audiences knowledge, attitudes, or
LED Strobe Light Bar beliefs. Cottman Transmission and
Total Auto Care joins just 6% out
of over 1100 award submissions in
earning the esteemed recognition.
The Automotive Coaching and We are honored to receive such a
Training Group (ACT) is pleased to Larson Electronics, a leading prestigious designation for our Cottman
introduce Doug Henry as their newest manufacturer of high-grade lighting Man Educational Video Series, said
associate business coach and trainer. equipment, has announced the release Derik Beck, vice president of digital
As a child, Doug knew his future of a 32-watt mini LED strobe light marketing for Cottman Transmission
was with automobiles. After graduating equipped with a sixteen foot cord and Total Auto Care. We understand
high school, Doug attended Universal terminated in a general area cord cap that not all of our guests have the time
Technical Institute (UTI), where he for connection to 120 to 240 volts AC to bring their car into our shops for
received highest honors and, with a power sources. every issue. We decided to educate
4.0GPA,returned home to work at The 9200-LED-S-M-1227 mini them whether the problem is small
alocal car dealership. LED strobe light bar offers high signal or serious. To be recognized for this
After 7 successful years in the performance in a compact design. This additional outreach brings pride to our
dealership environment, he felt he compact mini strobe light encloses entire team.
could do more to serve the customers thirty-two, 1 watt amber LEDs within To learn more, visit Cottman on
and decided to start his own automotive a polycarbonate lens enclosure for line at www.Cottman.com and www.
repair facility.Eighteen years later, durability and protection from the TheCottmanManBlog.com.
his passion for racing and repairing elements.
cars is only matched by his passion Two, 50-pound grip magnets
for helping others, which is why he are integrated with suction cups,
decided to work with ACT to help allowing operators to mount the unit
other shop owners on their journey to on a smooth surface such as glass and
success. metallic surfaces, such as vehicle roofs
Visit ACT on line at www. and equipment railings. This mounting
automotivecoachingandtraining.com. combination allows users to expand
GEARS December 2016 57

1PINS 1216 v2.indd 57 11/29/16 12:45 PM


G
EARS MAGAZINE


The latest and greatest issue
online at your fingertips.

INDUSTRY NEWS
New products and services
in the transmission industry.

ONLINE
BUYERS GUIDE
Trusted suppliers to help you
find the right transmission part.
G
EARS BLOG


Industry-specific articles,
hot topics, events and more.

FIX-IT FORUM
Get industry advice and
opinions from transmission
shop owners, managers
and certified professionals.

G
EARS ARCHIVE


An archived collection of
printed transmission topics.

Weve Got a Tool for That.


Visit the one-stop shop of the transmission industry. GearsMagazine.com has all the tools
youll need in one box. Go where the industry gathers. Go to Gears.

Register for your FREE subscription at


www.GearsMagazine.com
2016 Gears Magazine
SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS
GEARS Shopper advertising costs $325.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed
elsewhere in the magazine and are charged at comparable rates. Check or money order must accompany all orders.
For information on Shopper advertising in GEARS, contact GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, or call
(805) 604-2000.

ERIKSSON INDUSTRIES
Division of Wentworth Engineering

1-800-388-4418
Need Hard
Authorized Parts Distributor Parts?
Reman Trans 6HP - 5HP - 4HP
BMW - Audi - Jaguar - Range Rover
Valve Bodies & Torque Converters

MECHATRONICS - Programmed
Hard Parts: NEW / USED / REMANUFACTURED
Just Ask!
Soft Parts / Friction Kits / Steel Kits / Repair Manuals
Lifetime Fluids / Rebuild Kits / Valvebody Kits

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

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


ECM TCM PCM BCM
Foreign & Domestic

Computer Module Specialist Engine Control Module (ECM)


Off Vehicle Flash Programming Transmission Control Module (TCM)

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

Accept Major Credit Cards One Year Warranty


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

888-217-4072

CASH for Transfer Case Assemblies


with Encoder Motors
Solenoid CORES Reman Transmissions
New & Reman Engines
Aisin AW 5- & 6-Speed
3 yr./100,000 Mile Parts &
Chrysler 45RFE/545RFE/68RFE
Labor Warranty
(early & late) & 62TE
Nationwide Delivery
*Ford 5R55N/W/S & E4OD/4R100
Truckload Pricing
Honda 5-Speed Dual Linear
Only at
Visit www.sonnax.com
to start a core return online, or call
(800) 843-2600, Ext. 379 GREEN BAY, WI

*OE & Remanufactured


800-242-2844

GEARS December 2016 59

1shoppers 1216.indd 59 11/28/16 11:07 AM


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

BMW Mercedes-Benz Audi


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

Toll free 800 - 372 - TRANS


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

CORES
Weve
Got
Yours!
With over 150,000 transmission, engine and
internal part cores on the shelf, we have the cores
you need _ ready to ship today!

YOUR SOURCE FOR CORES RECYCLING AUTO WRECKING

Las Vegas, NV Chicago, Il


800.426.8771 800.826.7403
702.649.7776 773.624.6111
702.649.6777 FAX 773.624.6660 FAX
Find vintage cores on Memory Lane

aamidwestcores.com
60 GEARS December 2016

1shoppers 1216.indd 60 11/28/16 11:07 AM


WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED
FOREIGN & DOMESTIC
Standard Transmissions
Transfer Cases
New & Used Parts
Rebuilt Units
*ONE CALL DOES IT ALL*

CALL
BRIAN OR ALBERT
866-571-GEAR
4 3 2 7

NEED QUALITY
CONVERTERS?

Overhaul System!

Call for a free catalog


877-298-5003
www.atiracing.com
6747 Whitestone Road Baltimore, MD 21207

Best!
Expect the
Equipment Manufacturing Corp.

HARD PARTS $4,995.00

Quality
Remanufactured
& CORES In Stock

DALLAS, TX
Torque Converters
Distributorships Available For all makes & models,
foreign and domestic
Visit our website:
SAME DAY SHIPPING
www.cvcconverters.com 800-443-8135 888-833-9000
800.727.4461 jptransmission.com www.equipmentmanufacturing.com

GEARS December 2016 61

1shoppers 1216.indd 61 11/28/16 11:08 AM


SHOPPER CLASSIFIED December 2016
GEARS classified advertising cost $95.00 for up to 50 words for a one time insertion. ATRA members are eligible to receive up to three (3) FREE classified
advertisements in GEARS annually (per 9 issues). Members wishing to place ads once their three FREE ads have been placed may do so at the cost listed above.
Ads exceeding the maximum word count will cost $1.50 for each additional word (not including phone number and address).

www.trans-tool.com
1-800-531-5978

EXPLORE
our full line of high-precision Why buy foreign,
When you can buy
TORQUE CONVERTER
American Quality
rebuilding equipment. Tools and parts
washers
At an
Unbeatable Price!

Visit our website for more information,


n Pushes 18,000 lbs up a 5% grade
or the links below for our Parts Washers: n Safe for use on plastic bumpers
www.partscrubber.info www.partscrubberx.info n Variable Speed Soft Touch Control
www.midipro.info n Built-in 115V charging system
www.transmissionpartswashers.info
www.SuperFlow.com/gears | 1.888.442.5546 powerpusher.com | 800-800-9274

BUSINESS FOR SALE: Pennsylvania areas HELP WANTED: Positions available for Sales HELP WANTED: NEED IMMEDIATELY!
only transmission shop, 23 year old successful Manages, Rebuilders, R&R, and General Experienced TRANSMISSION REBUILDER
business great reputation. Business equipment Techs throughout California. Contact California and diagnostic technician for family owned
and inventory; lifts: flywheel grinder; parts AAMCO Dealers Association: (800) 850- shop in the Norfolk/Virginia Beach, VA
washer; waste oil heater; office equipment and 9944, Fax (702) 562-0660 (CADA), Email: area. Must be experienced in most makes
software. Located near Allegheny National cada@gettingmail.com. (automatics, standards, transfer cases and
Forest. Excellent hunting, fishing, hiking, some differentials). Also be ok with getting
boating. Lease available on building, turnkey HELP WANTED: BUSY WESTERN out on the floor at times to help with R&R. We
operation. Priced to sell. Owner wishes to COLORADO transmission shop is looking work as a team. Must have most tools to get
retire. Email PaTrannyShop@gmail.com (814) for an experienced transmission rebuilder/ the job done. 5 day work week. $$ depend
406 9440. ATRA Mbr swing technician to join our team. We offer on experience. Prefer someone in this area or
a 5-day work week, competitive hourly pay, someone that is willing to relocate here ASAP.
BUSINESS FOR SALE: Owner wants to retire individual and team bonuses, paid holidays, (757) 461-3530 or email genestrans@gmail.
ASAP. Well established, fully equipped , turn paid vacation, local healthcare. Send your com. ATRA Mbr
key operation. We have been in business resume to bakerstransmission@gmail.com or
for over 38 years and have a great reputation fax to: (970) 242-8589. ATRA Mbr HELP WANTED: DIAGNOSTIC TECHNICIAN -
in the Tidewater, VA area. We will sell just Looking for a change? We are a busy Western
the business or the business/property. All is HELP WANTED: Experienced transmission Colorado transmission shop looking for an
negotiable. Owner financing available. Reply to installer for busy shop in the Smoky Mountains experienced, professional diagnostic technician
genestrans@gmail.com. Serious inquiries only of Western, North Carolina. Come work and to join our team. Must be well versed in
please. ATRA Mbr play in one of the most beautiful areas of our computer diagnostics and electronics. We live
country. Hunting, fishing, boating, hiking and and work in the beautiful Grand Valley, aka
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: TCRS Torque motorcycle riding are just a few of the many the Gateway to the Outdoors minutes from
Converter Rebuilding System - TCRS torque outdoor activities that this area has to offer. If hiking, biking, hunting, fishing, and all kinds
converter rebuilding system for sale. Includes you are tired of the rat race and want a better of outdoor activities. We offer competitive
breaking lathe (American Pace Maker), auto- life style, this position may be just what you are pay with bonuses, a five day work week,
weld aligner, hand spun balancer, water tester, looking for. Call us at: (828) 456-5753 or email local healthcare, and paid holidays. E-mail
tooling & parts. Call (509) 910-9976. advancedtransmis@bellsouth.net. ATRA Mbr resume to bakerstransmission@gmail.com
ATRA Mbr Check us out at www.bakerstransmission.
HELP WANTED: West Central Florida com Bakers Transmission Service, LLC
HELP WANTED: Experienced Transmission Transmission Shop 36 years same location (970) 245-6640. ATRA Mbr
Rebuilder Wanted for established family 5 day work week, health insurance bonus
owned business of over 65 years located program paid vacation & sick days paid HELP WANTED: Ralphs Transmission is a
in central Iowa. Busy 6 hoist shop offering holidays taking applications for experienced growing shop in Modesto seeking qualified
top salary plus weekly bonuses, 401K, and rebuilders and transmission diagnostic techs and experienced transmission specialists.
insurance benefits. Please contact James at email resume to: brktrans@yahoo.com or call We have an excellent facility with completely
(515) 285-7561 or knudsontrans@live.com. Chris at (352) 796-6544. ATRA Mbr upgraded equipment. Ralphs offers a
ATRA Mbr positive work environment, competitive pay,
benefits and other great employee incentives.
62 GEARS December 2016

1classfd-1216.indd 62 11/28/16 11:06 AM


Don't Miss the ATRA SEMINAR Near You!

2017 ATRA TECHNICAL SEMINARS


2017 ATRA Technical Seminars Coming Soon!
800.428.8489 MEMBERS.ATRA.COM

We are currently accepting applicants HELP WANTED: Rapidly growing hard parts HELP WANTED: Looking for a motivated,
for the following positions: R&R Specialist, company in the Dallas/Ft Worth area is looking punctual mechanic and or transmission
Diagnosticians, Service Advisors (Sales). Visit: for a salesperson. Must have knowledge of rebuilder. Must be available to work Monday
www. RalphsTransmission.com to learn more hard parts and soft parts. Also in need of two - Friday 8am - 5pm, have own hand tools,
about Ralphs Transmission and employment people with hard parts knowledge to help with speak English and most importantly follow
opportunities. Contact Mario Jauregui at (209) the inspection process, as well as cleaning, directions. Preferred experience removing and
526-1909 or Mario@RalphsTransmission.com. packaging, and stocking them. Please send installing transmissions front and rear wheel
resume and requirements to atraadd@gmail. drive. Not required but preferred! Reading
HELP WANTED: Experienced Transmission com. and comprehension necessary. Pay is good,
Rebuilders needed. Advanced Transmissions weekends and holidays off. Great opportunity
Inc., located in Mauldin, South Carolina is HELP WANTED: NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT for the right person with a positive attitude and
seeking full-time, experienced Transmission HEADQUARTERS FOR THE TRANSMISSION strong work ethic. Call or text Steve at (805)
Rebuilders to be part of our team. Candidates INDUSTRY. Fast, Easy and Free service to 896-2939 or trans58.sp@gmail.com.
must have a minimum of 10 years experience industry employees! Low cost and an easy way ATRA Mbr
with both foreign and domestic transmissions. to recruit nationwide for shop owners! Serving
Please send resumes to Gareth Jacobs, at the transmission industry since 1997. Visit our
AdvancedTransmissionsInc@gmail.com. website at: www.transteam.com or call us toll
Call us at (864) 299-9600. free at: (888) 859-0994.

Subscribe Today! X
Grab Your GEARS Now!
The Million Dollar
Question
Controlling the 6R80 I want my very own subscription
Inside the Honda 6-Speed
ATRA's 2015 Powertrain Expo!
Make your plans now!
CVR-715-jt1.indd 2
JULY 2015

6/19/15 12:08 PM
to the next 10 issues of GEARS.

Name _____________________________________ Phone _______________________________


Address______________________________ City ________________ State ______ Zip __________
Signature________________________________________________
U.S. $30 ~ Canada $45 ~ Other Areas $65 Please enclose check or money order in U.S. funds and send to:
GEARS 2400 LATIGO AVENUE OXNARD, CALIFORNIA 93030, or call: (805)604-2000

GEARS December 2016 63

1classfd-1216.indd 63 11/28/16 11:06 AM


ADVERTISERS

NamePage NamePage

ATRA 27 Precision International............................................................ 3


members.atra.com www.transmissionkits.com

ATRA Expo 49 Precision Of New Hampton Inc............................................ 33


www.gopnh.com
www.powertrainexpo.com
Raybestos Powertrain.......................................................... 13
Adapt A Case....................................................................... 37 www.raybestospowertrain.com
www.adapt-a-case.com
Rostra Precision Controls Inc............................................... 29
ETE Reman............................................................................ 7 www.rostratransmission.com
www.etereman.com
Seal Aftermarket Products................................................... 19
www.sealaftermarketproducts.com
EVT Parts......................................................................... OBC
www.evtparts.com Sonnax Industries............................................................... IFC
www.sonnax.com
GEARS Magazine 58
www.gearsmagazine.com Superior Transmission Parts................................................ 11
www.superior-transmission.com
GearSpeed........................................................................... 28
Sussex Auto Parts Ltd.......................................................... 33
www.gearspeedpartsstore.com
www.sussexautos.co.uk
Jasper Engines & Transmissions....................................... IBC Transtar Industries, Inc......................................................... 17
www.jasperengines.com www.transtar1.com

Mid States Transmission Parts............................................. 32 TransTec a brand of Freudenberg-NOK............................... 21


www.mstp.net www.transtec.com

North American Powertrain Components............................. 34 Tri Component Products Corp.............................................. 35


www.tricomponent.com
www.napcltd.ca
Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc............................ 9
Precision European Inc........................................................ 63 www.wittrans.com
www.PEIus.com

ATRA Supplier Members


Reserve your free table top display for the
2016

ATRA 2017 technical seminar series today!


Call (805) 604-2018

See ATRA Seminar


Schedule information at:
members.atra.com
64 GEARS December 2016

listo1216.indd 64 11/28/16 10:46 AM


December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 503 11/29/16 12:48 PM
December 2016 Full Page Ads.indd 504 11/29/16 12:48 PM

Você também pode gostar