Counterman Staff, Author at Counterman Magazine - Page 537 of 556
~
I’m thinking of buying a mom & pop independent auto parts store and would be interested in your take on this idea.

I’m thinking of buying a mom & pop independent auto parts store and would be interested in your take on this idea. I see that NAPA, Autozone, Pepboys (and RockAuto online) seem to be taking over. Knowing what you know from your experience in the parts business, would you even consider investing in a small independent parts shop? Can these
small shops survive? What things would I have to do to be successful? Or is it a lost cause and all small shops will be out of business in the near future? Thanks in advance for your thoughts.

We Need Precise Information

Kelsey Tidwell had a good point, even if you missed it (In the letters section of the May 2009 issue, Tidwell takes issue with a February Tech Tip that says bearings demand grease with special characteristics. She felt the answer was too generic.) Have you taken a look at the plethora of greases, oils, and/or

The brake light indicator is on in my 1992 Honda Accord. My brake lights are working fine. What could be causing this?

The brake light indicator is on in my 1992 Honda Accord. My brake lights are working fine. What could be causing this?

I have a 1995 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS.

I have a 1995 Mitsubishi Eclipse RS. I bought the car with a bad motor. I got another motor and swapped them out. Now the thing that gets me is that I have to spray starting fluid into the throttle body to get it to start, but only for the first time. Once it starts and runs, it drives great. I can even shut it off and re-crank it a few minutes later without any problem. It only seems to need starting fluid to crank it the first time or after it has been off for about an hour.

What can cause this?

I was wondering if the MAP could have something to do with it — maybe not reading the correct barometric pressure or something? Maybe a faulty ECU?

Thank you!

With more and more hybrids (Micro hybrids) coming to the market, what could be the added value of the aftermarket shops?

With more and more hybrids (Micro hybrids) coming to the market, what could be the added value of the aftermarket shops? I read the article about the Prius and how difficult it could be to get parts ordered for this. If this trend evolves wouldn’t it drive business towards OE shops? Is there a future for the aftermarket shops?

I have a 2007 Pontiac G6 with 34,000 miles. I keep up with the regular oil changes. At what point will it need a tune-up so I know for sure I am keeping my vehicle in tip-top condition?

Great job maintaining your car! GM recommends very long "tune-up" intervals of 100,000 miles or so. Don’t trust them! Most consumers find out they need spark plugs when the computer turns on the Check Engine light and ignition misfires occur. By then, other damage may have resulted like burnt (and expensive) ignition coils! It’s better

Is the balance shaft assembly necessary in a 2.4 GM ecotech? Since it is chain-driven it should have no effect on the crankshaft balance. Would there be any horsepower gain from eliminating the balance shafts and adding an external oil pump?

I-4 cylinder engines are hard to balance because of longer power pulse intervals and tend to cause vibration as they get larger in displacement. A 2.4 is considered large displacement. I-6 and V-8 engines have closer power pulses and tend to be much smoother; V-6 engines are somewhere between the others. Don’t remove the balance

Why is more than one oil filter listed when I’m looking up particular vehicles? (ex: SAE thread or metric thread). What’s the difference and how can my customer or I tell the difference? Is the information within the VIN? If so where?

Did you try the manufacturer tech line? How about their Web site? Of course with an oil filter, there is almost ALWAYS a number on the old filter you can cross reference if you want to be certain and have the time or no other choice. Harris Steinberg Morris Auto Parts Inc. Philadelphia, PA

Tracy Renee Lauded as 2009 Auto Service Expert of the Year

Tracy Renee, owner of Gene’s Auto Repair in Vallejo, Calif., was honored as the 2009 Auto Service Expert of the year at the 25th IWD Annual Membership Meeting, held May 13-17 in Tucson, Ariz.

Jeff Sandt Named to IWD Post

Branford, Conn. — IWD is proud to announce the addition of Jeff Sandt to the IWD staff as Director of Product Management. In this role, Jeff will be responsible for the Auto Pride and Truck Pride product management for the IWD members. Jeff brings more than 19 years experience to the IWD group, which includes

Is too much air a bad thing on stock engines?

There is no harm to the engine by having more air enter the system. It may make the engine run easier. Just make sure that the air is filtered. If not, you will have more problems than you realize. Jerry Ives Assistant Professor, Parts Technology Alfred State College, Wellsville Campus

I have an ’07 Mustang V6 with about 40,000 miles and I’m using 5-30 synthetic oil. At what mileage do I upgrade to a higher weight?

Many Ford vehicles along with others recommend the use of 5w30 motor oil. On some Ford vehicles, using a higher-viscosity oil can set a DTC (Diagnostic Trouble Code) which is related to the use of wrong oil, contaminated oils, or using the wrong oil filter. Keep your vehicle maintained and use the correct weight, there