Up is Up
Although the DIY market appears to be looking a little brighter, the commercial side of the business is where the real future growth will come.
With Thanks
Thank you Gary Garberg for finally saying in print what I’ve been trying to convey for years! Delivery drivers and outside sales reps don’t get the credit they deserve. Way too often they end up being the “punching bag” for someone else’s mistakes. I liked the article so much that I made copies and forwarded
Filter Fundamentals
A filter’s function is to trap contaminants, whether it’s an air filter, fuel filter, oil filter or transmission filter. Keeping those filters clean and free of debris is the first step in keeping those contaminants at bay.
Dissecting a Survey
The aftermarket loves conducting surveys and analyzing the results. But, more often than not, the data is biased and inaccurate. It’s time we begin focusing on the facts.
Let Them Flip Burgers
I’ve been in the auto parts business for the last 10 years. In that time, I have worked for an independent, a national retailer and now, a smaller program-group affiliated chain. The trend of getting rid of knowledgeable people and replacing them with “Joe Blow Computer Geek” is really bad. What’s worse is the management
Surfin’ Parts USA
Now more than ever, we’re hearing about Internet part stores that tout great prices and same-day or next-day delivery. Will these virtual stores eventually replace real parts pros?
ASE P2 Study Guide
This month, Counterman publishes its annual test preparation guide to the upcoming ASE automobile parts specialist (P2) test. This Fall’s nationwide testing dates are Nov. 8, 13 and 15.
Zapping Warranty Returns
I have been in the industry for many years and enjoy your magazine very much. In the Tech Feature, Zapping Warranty Returns (January, 2007), Larry Carley writes that, at idle, most charging systems, with no load, produce 13.8 to 15.3 volts. What happened to the old-school 14.3 volts? When did this new voltage come about?
Why Buy Direct?
Everyone wants to save a few points on parts purchases. But does cutting out the middleman really save anyone in the long run? Sometimes, the middleman brings more value than you think.
Just Ask!
As the saying goes, “There are no stupid questions.” It’s time parts pros start asking questions when faced with warranty situations. No matter how ridiculous the inquiry may seem, it could save a lot of hassle.
