October/November 2013

FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

TM

The Pressure's OFF

Ford’s CFT30 Pump’n Iron

Pressure regulation and the problems that can be traced to reduced flow

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10/3/13 11:22 PM

GEARS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2013 PHONE (805) 604-2000 FAX (805) 604-2006 Publisher Managing Editor Online Editor Technical Director Advertising Senior Designer

Dennis Madden Rodger Bland Ron Brattin Lance Wiggins Frank Pasley Jeanette Troub

Contributing Editors: Jim Cathcart

Steve Bodofsky Thom Tschetter

ATRA Technical Staff: Kevin Pryor Mike Brown Pete Huscher Mike Souza

Rolly Alvarez Bill Brayton Steve Garrett Mark Puccinelli Jarad Warren

Director of Membership & IT Svc Kelly Hilmer Seminars & Convention Manager Vanessa Velasquez

The Pressure's OFF Ford’s CFT30 Page 4

Action Transmission Specialists: A Second Chance for Success Page 54

Bound by the Bond! Page 10

SPECIAL INTEREST & TECHNICAL 4

KEEP THOSE TRANNYS ROLLING: The Pressure's OFF Ford’s CFT30 — by Pete Huscher

10

STREET SMART: Bound by the Bond!

14

A SHIFTING BUSINESS: Pump’n Iron, Pressure regulation and the problems that can be traced to reduced flow.

— by Mike Brown

— by Mark Puccinelli The views expressed in this publication should not necessarily be interpreted as the official policy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA). Publication of product information or any advertising does not imply recommendation by ATRA. GEARS , a publication of ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, is published for the betterment of the transmission industry and is distributed nine times per year. No part of this issue may be reproduced without prior written permission of the publisher. GEARS is distributed to members of the transmission industry in the United States, Canada, ATRA Members in Mexico & Europe, and related automotive industry firms and individually. Send changes of address to GEARS in care of ATRA. Subscriptions are available by contacting GEARS in care of ATRA. Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full liability for all content of advertisements printed and also assume full responsibility for any claims arising therefrom against the publisher. The publisher reserves the unqualified right to reject any advertising copy as it deems appropriate, with or without cause. GEARS is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding the publisher 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 professional person should be sought from a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers. GEARS also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. GEARS considers all articles for publication that contribute positively to the welfare of the transmission industry, and reserves the right to edit all articles it publishes. If you 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 submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Editorial and Business Offices 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard CA 93030 Phone (805) 604-2000 Fax (805) 604-2006

www.gearsmagazine.com www.atra.com Publications Mail Agreement No. 40031403 Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: Station A, PO Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5 Email: [email protected] Issue #179

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Printed in U.S.A.

20

ETE Reman, Building a New Future

24

TALES FROM THE BENCH: Don't Guess: Test! Ford's 4F27E, FN4A-EL, FNR5 — by Jarad Warren

32

The Word on the Street: Stop Clanking Around!

38

UP YOUR BUSINESS: “A Kodak Moment… It’s Not A Pretty Picture” — by Thom Tschetter

42

Getting Past Their Listening Filters — by Jim Cathcart

46

Another Expo for the Books — by Steve Bodofsky

54

SHOP PROFILE: Action Transmission Specialists: A Second Chance for Success — by Steve Bodofsky

60

ATRA Classics on the Coast Car Show 2013 — by Steve Bodofsky

— by Mike Souza

DEPARTMENTS 2

FROM THE CEO: From the Back of the Class — by Dennis Madden

62

Powertrain Industry News

66

Shoppers and Classified

72

List of Advertisers Be sure to read our Feature Story, ETE Reman, Building a New Future, page 20, (Paid Advertisement)

Copyright ATRA 2013

10/7/13 10:44 PM

FROM THE CEO

From the Back of the Class T

he 2013 ATRA Powertrain Expo in Washington DC marked the 21st of these shows for me, beginning way back in 1993. I’ve loved every one; some more than others. Up until this year, I’ve always looked at these shows from the perspective of a presenter, my main role being to develop a program I thought would be interesting and relevant to my audience. My time at the event primarily consisted of concentrating on my material and preparing for my presentation, which meant that I often missed what some of the other presenters had to say. This year was different: This year I was part of the audience. The fact is, by the time we finished developing the management program, there was no room for an additional speaker. So this year I ended up sitting in the back of the room, really listening to what the other speakers were saying. It let me view the program from a different perspective. This time I wasn’t thinking about my presentation while the other speakers were on; I was able to view them as you would. And it couldn’t have occurred during a better year. This year we intermixed some of our most popular management presenters with world-class speakers and personal development experts Don Hutson and Jim Cathcart. The focus of the management sessions was primarily customer based; building relationships, selling value (which is based on the needs of your 2

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customer, not on what you have to sell!), building your brand, and reaching out to younger consumers; the Generation X and Y market. The entire series of programs was designed to help shop owners understand today’s consumer, improve sales, and do so with confidence. One of the most informative sessions for me was from Bill Haas on Generation X and Y. He put into perspective and made clear how these individuals (your current and future customers) think. For a baby boomer like me, it’s easy to pass off some of the idiosyncrasies of these younger generations as odd or bizarre. But if you examine the world from their perspective, it becomes easier to reach them as customers than to consider them a lost cause. This experience allowed me to see the show as a student of the event, not just the host. It reminded me of how important it is to get out of the day-today routines that make up your business experience and expose yourself to what customers see — and feel — when they come into your shop. It begs the question: Is there some way that you can experience what your customers go through when it comes to auto repair? Maybe not from your shop, but consider having some repair or maintenance performed at a local garage; one you aren’t familiar with. It’s a matter of constantly evaluating what makes for a good customer experience.

by Dennis Madden members.atra.com

The management programs were terrific and I especially enjoyed this year’s lineup, but it was only one part of the Powertrain Expo experience. The majority of the attendees go to the technical sessions. Each year we try to improve our focus to provide material and programs that are complimentary and relevant. What we’ve discovered is that we don’t need a lot of programs going on concurrently; we can design a single program that more people find valuable. And based on the feedback, the tech programs were a hit. Some shop owners are apprehensive about training their staff, thinking that, if they train their technicians, they might leave and take that education to their competitors. But as Don Hutson reminded us what is worse than that: “Is not training them and having them stay” We’ve already started working on next year’s program at the Rio resort in Las Vegas. If you missed this year’s show in D.C., make it a point to mark your calendar now for October 30th through November 2nd. Understanding your customers and providing value based on their needs was the message I heard loud and clear… even from the back of the class. See you next year!

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 9:59 AM

A higher level.

That’s what you get with Ford gas engines and transmissions. A higher build level means you’re getting engine and transmission assemblies built to the exacting specifications of Ford Motor Company. So you not only get the quality build you expect in an assembly from Ford, but also one that’s built by using parts that keep it specific to year, make and model as well as emissions calibrations.

Introducing the all-new 3-Year Unlimited-Mile Warranty – No Commercial Exceptions Ford gasoline engines and transmissions are covered by a three-year/unlimited-mile warranty.* All warranties are backed by Ford Motor Company. They’re also supported by more than 3,500 Ford and Lincoln Mercury Dealerships nationwide as well as at their originating place of service. Plus, unlike some competitors, the warranty is good for fleet vehicles. That means you get the same advantages and coverage for commercial use, no exceptions. For technical questions, contact the Powertrain Assistance Center at 1-800-392-7946 or visit FordParts.com. *See dealer for limited-warranty details. Remanufactured diesel engines are covered by a two-year/unlimited-mileage warranty.

The Pressure's OFF Ford’s CFT30

KEEP THOSE TRANNYS ROLLING

The Pressure's OFF Ford’s CFT30 TCC Feed Tubes

by Pete Huscher members.atra.com

Lube Tube (connected to case) Main Pressure Feed Tube

Secondary Pressure Feed Tube

Clutch Supply Feed Tube Primary Pressure Feed Tube Figure 1: Mechatronic assembly with feed tubes

O

ver the past year, ATRA’s Technical Department has been working feverishly to bring you the latest information on today’s continuously variable transmissions (CVTs). In past issues of GEARS we’ve covered the details for Chrysler’s CVT, the JF011E; and we’ve provided you with a basic understanding of how Ford’s CVT, the CFT30, operates. In this issue, we’ll cover pressure related problems. They’re common, and you’ll defiantly be working on this unit very soon so be prepared.

4

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Pressure Problems

Like many CVTs, Ford’s CFT30 operates on much higher pressures than traditional transmissions. CFT30 operating pressures will usually be in the range of 220-250 PSI, but can exceed 1000 PSI at times. The CFT30 has no external pressure ports; the only way to check the operating pressure is to monitor the main pressure sensor (PCA MES) and secondary pressure sensor (PCC MES) PIDS with a scan tool. If the TCM detects pressures out of range, the TCM will set one of these codes:

P0840 — main pressure sensor out of range P0845 — secondary pressure sensor out of range P0868 — transaxle pressure low P0871 — secondary pressure low P0961 — PCA out of range Ford claims these codes can be caused by faulty pressure control solenoids, faulty pressure sensors, a faulty Mechatronic assembly (valve body/ TCM assembly); all of which are caused by either a faulty Mechatronic assembly, at a cost of over $1100 P&L, or an internal leak in the hydraulic system. GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 9:57 AM

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The Pressure's OFF Ford’s CFT30

The good part of the story is you can replace any of these feed tube sealing rings without completely disassembly the transmissions case Ford claims the only way to correct these problems is to replace the transmission. But we’ve found that the most common cause for these codes is an internal leak in the hydraulic system. And there are less expensive ways to repair those leaks. The hydraulic system for the CFT30 is pretty simple. The CFT30 uses seven feed tubes to deliver pressure to the various transmission components. The Mechatronic assembly itself uses seven different feed tubes to deliver pressure to the case. They are (figure 1): • Clutch supply feed tube • Primary feed tube • Secondary feed tube • Main pressure feed tube • (2) Torque converter clutch feed tubes • Lube Tube The Mechatronic assembly routes pressure through the case to the primary and secondary covers, located on the rear of the transmission (figure 2). The primary variator and forward clutch circuit uses a feed tube located in the primary cover (figure 3) to control the primary variator and forward clutch operation. The secondary variator circuit uses a feed tube located in the secondary cover (figure 4) and main case to control the secondary variator operation. All of these feed tubes use sealing rings to seal each of the circuits. 6

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Secondary Cover

Primary Cover Figure 2: Primary and Secondary covers

Primary Variator Supply Feed Tube

Figure 3: Primary variator feed tube

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 9:57 AM

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The Pressure's OFF Ford’s CFT30

Secondary Variator Supply Feed Tube

Figure 4: Secondary variator feed tube

Sealing ring shrinkage, deterioration, or damage can cause hydraulic circuit leaks, which is becoming one of the most common causes for pressure codes to set on this unit. The good part of the story is you can replace any of these feed tube sealing rings without completely disassembly the transmissions case. The question is, do you replace the $1100 Mechatronic assembly, or should you take a couple hours labor and a seal kit to repair or reseal the feed tubes, all in an effort to eliminate the pressure codes? Depending on the age of the vehicle and the condition of the transmission, resealing the tubes may be worth a shot.

Resealing the Tubes

The first step to resealing the feed tubes is to remove the Mechatronic assembly from the case. With the Mechatronic assembly removed, you'll be able to see the seven feed tubes located in the Mechatronic assembly and/or stuck in the case as shown in figure 1. Remove each of the feed tubes (identifying their locations for reassembly later) and replace the feed tube 8

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sealing rings. Be sure to coat the feed tubes and sealing rings with Ford CVT fluid prior to reinstalling the tubes in the case. Install the Mechatronic assembly and transmission pan. Next, remove the primary and secondary covers located at the rear of the transmission as shown in figure 2. Remove the primary variator feed tube from the primary cover and replace the sealing rings as shown in figure 3. Reinstall the primary variator feed tube into the primary cover and install the primary cover onto the main case. Next, remove the secondary variator feed tube from the secondary cover and replace the sealing rings as shown in figure 4. Again, be sure to coat the sealing rings with Ford CVT fluid prior to installing the primary and secondary covers. Once you’ve reinstalled the primary and secondary covers, check the fluid level and refill as needed. Clear all codes from the computer system and road test vehicle to recheck transmission operation. If the pressure codes return, you’ll need to replace the Mechatronic assembly.

Replacing the Mechatronic assembly is pretty straightforward: Remove the transmission pan, then remove and replace Mechatronic assembly. Reinstall the transmission pan, check and refill transmission as needed. Clear the codes from the computer system. With the new Mechatronic assembly installed, you’ll have to reflash the vehicle with the latest update. After the reflash, test drive vehicle to make sure the transmission is operating properly. IMPORTANT: We’ve encountered pump problems and sealing ring leaks in the forward clutch circuit. These repairs will require you to disassemble the transmission. Well, there you have it: a quick and simple way to take care of Ford CFT30 pressure problems. With a little patience and a better understanding of the CFT30 transmission, you should have no problem keeping those CVT trannies rolling down the road.

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 9:57 AM

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10/4/13 7:45 AM

STREET SMART

Bound by the Bond!

by Mike Brown members.atra.com

T

his is a problem that goes like this: “I built this 5R55E unit two months ago and it came back binding up in reverse and manual low. I’ve got it apart on the bench and don’t see anything wrong. Everything air checks good. Help!” This is a very common problem and is usually centered around the servos. This problem has been with us since the A4LD and has continued on through the 4R44E, 5R55E, and into the 5R55W, S and N models.

Hydraulic or Mechanical?

Any time you’re dealing with a bind up, your first step should always be to determine whether the problem is hydraulic or mechanical. In most of these cases, the problem is mechanical and caused by the servo delaminating and getting stuck in the bore (Figure 1). Of course you need to make sure you check the parking pawl isn’t being engaged by some misalignment issue first. Here’s a quick test to figure out 10

1mikebrown1013.indd 10

Figure 1

what’s causing the bind up. Put the vehicle on a lift. • Loosen both band adjusting bolt locknuts. • Have a person in the vehicle start the engine, hold the brakes on, and put the transmission into gear. • Slowly release the brake pedal until the transmission binds up. • Check to see if one of the band adjustment bolts is tight.

The tight bolt is the adjustment for the band that’s being applied and is causing the bindup. The second part of the test is to turn the engine off. If the bolt adjustment goes lose, you have a hydraulic problem. If it stays tight, look at the delaminating servo as the failure, this is usually the problem.

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 2:30 PM

*See our website for full warranty details

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2/22/12 10:47 AM

Bound by the Bond!

EPC Plug

Figure 2

When the servo seals become delaminated it can roll over, causing it to bind in the case. As you can see in the photo, the damaged to the piston causes it to bind in the bore, holding the band on. If you’ve determined the problem is cause by something hydraulic then look for a problem in the valve body. Begin by examining the gaskets for damage or blowouts. This could have been caused by high line pressure, or warping in the valve body or transmission case. Use a straightedge to make sure the valve body and transmission case are flat. One last tidbit: we often see a wrong gear start diagnosed as a bind up. The most common problem is the EPC plug (figure 2). Check the EPC 12

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plug for wear. Some technicians like to turn the EPC adjustment in to raise pressure which if overdone could cause wrong gear starts. What happens is the 1-2 (4R55E) or 2-3 (5R55E) shift valve plug becomes loose due to wear. This allows EPC pressure to flow past the end plug and stroke the shift valve, causing wrong gear starts. I know it sounds like a lot of work, but take the valve body completely apart. Don’t just pick the valves; make sure no valves are sticking. Anytime you’re working with an aluminum valve body, it’s very important to torque it correctly. Overtorquing the valve body bolts can pinch a valve and prevent it from moving freely.

Then, after you remove it, there won’t appear to be anything wrong. So before you pull the transmission and disassemble it for a bind on this unit, take the time to think about what can be causing the problem… or, more appropriately, what’s not causing it. Sometimes a couple simple tests can save you a lot of time and money. And that’s not just smart… that’s street smart!

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 2:30 PM

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10/3/13 11:24 PM

A SHIFTING BUSINESS

Pump’n Iron

by Mark Puccinelli members.atra.com

Pressure regulation and the problems that can be traced to reduced flow.

T

he 4L80E remains a constant source of work in shops everywhere. This was GM’s workhorse transmission in the 3/4- and 1-ton truck chassis for many years. But as the years and mileage accumulate on these units, we’re starting to see failure patterns that require extra attention during the repair process. On any transmission, many components are easy to identify as good versus bad. For example, sun gears and planets are pretty simple components to evaluate. Others aren’t so easy. An oil pump or a valve body for example. There’s a lot that can go wrong with these components that you might miss during a visual inspection. If the pump output volume drops too low on a 4L80E, there are two problems that can show up: • Converter clutch lining failure • Overdrive planet failure Low pump volume and converter lining failure is common with most, but not all, transmissions. The overdrive planet failure is unique to the 1997 and later circuit design of the 4L80E. To follow the progression of these failures, you need to understand the pressure regulator system: how it regulates line pressure, and more importantly, the side effects that can occur when line pressure regulation takes place with a weak pump. The three stages of pressure regulation are (figure 1): 1. Zero output: The pressure regulator valve is closed by spring 14

1mark1013.indd 14

Figure 1

tension. The engine is off; there’s no pump output. Line pressure is zero. 2. Converter feed: Engine running,

pressure is established from pump output. The valve opens far enough to feed the torque converter circuit. GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 2:43 PM

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Pump’n Iron

3. True regulation: Pressure exceeds the pressure regulator spring tension, so the valve opens further and exhausts excess volume to the sump.

Grind a 1/16 Wide Flat Here

To understand the regulation process and what goes wrong when pump output is low, it helps to look at the system backward, starting with stage 3: At the true regulation point, the pressure regulator valve returns excess volume to the sump because the pump output pressure has exceeded the pressure regulator spring tension value. Let’s stop here for a moment and define a few terms: Spring working height — The length for measuring spring tension. On this pressure regulator valve, it’s where the valve opens the line pressure port to exhaust; the point of true regulation. Spring tension — The force the spring develops when measured at its working height, measured in pounds and ounces. Pressure regulator valve balance area — The area of the valve that the pump pressure must act upon to move the valve against spring tension. Exceeded spring tension value — When pump pressure is greater than the measured spring tension divided by the calculated valve balance area. For simplicity, we’re going to discuss the line pressure produced by working against the pressure regulator spring tension only. We aren’t going to factor in EPC boost pressure. First we need to calculate the area of the valve to square inches. The pressure regulator valve has a diameter of 0.623”. Since we’re calculating area, we need to divide that in half to get the radius: 0.623" ÷ 2 = 0.3115" Now we enter the radius of the valve into the formula for calculating area, πr2: 3.14 x (0.3115")2 = 3.14 x 0.0970 = 0.3046 square inches So the valve regulation area is 0.3046 square inches. You can also go to the GEARS website and click on the “Extras” tab, there’s some nifty tools there like the “Pressure Analyzer” to help you calculate measurements. 16

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Figure 2

Blow Air Here

Figure 3

Go to: http://www.gearsmagazine. com/extras/Pressure.aspx The average 4L80E pressure regulator spring weighs 12.00 lbs at working height. A 12.00-lb spring divided by the valve area of 0.3046 square inches produces about 39.4 PSI of line pressure. For the valve to compress to its true regulation point, the pump volume has to be high enough to produce 39.4 PSI or more. If the pump volume isn’t high enough to produce 39.4 PSI, the valve will move inward from spring tension

and stop exhausting excess volume to the sump. Depending on the pump condition and RPM, the valve will cycle between exhausting and not exhausting to regulate pressure to 39.4 PSI. That’s the basics of true regulation with a good pump. Now let’s look at what happens if the pump isn’t providing enough volume: If the pump volume isn’t high enough, closing the exhaust port to the sump at the true regulation point still may not produce the 39.4 PSI the spring value demands. GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 2:43 PM

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10/3/13 11:21 PM 9/27/2013 4:21:48 PM

Pump’n Iron

If the valve exhaust port is closed and line pressure is still below 39.4 PSI, the valve will keep moving inward from spring tension, because the pressure on the • When you blow air in through the lube passage, valve balance it must exit at the yellow arrow from within the area is below sator support tube. the calculated • Always run a .086" drill through the small lube hole above the sealing ring to make sure the hole is open. spring value. Eventually the valve will shut off flow to the converter circuit. The converter feed circuit consumes a lot of pump volume; it’s a huge load on the system. The regulator valve has a job to do: provide 39.4 PSI of line pressure. If it has to cut off Figure 4 converter feed to do it, it will. When pump output is low, the valve It just cut off converter feed and overwill regulate pump pressure at the condrive planet lube to provide it. verter feed point to produce 39.4 PSI. You may be able to witness this If the regulation point is now at with a flow meter on the cooler line. If the converter feed port, it means the oil we add the EPC boost requirements to pressure that holds the converter clutch this problem, things really go downhill. off is going to be cut off or regulated How do you prevent it? under low RPM and high pump demand It all starts at the pump intake. You conditions. need to make sure you have the followWith no or regulated converter ing items in top notch condition: clutch release oil, the converter clutch will drag. If the converter clutch drags, • A good filter and seal it can cause the engine to lug or stall • proper oil level and will eventually burn out the con• Pump tolerances within spec: verter clutch. Ø Maximum gear face clearance If you look at the converter feed 0.0020” circuit further upstream, you can see Ø Pump gear to gear pocket that overdrive planet lube is fed directly 0.0008”–0.0020” from the converter feed. You guessed • Flat pump cover it: Under certain driving conditions, the • Pump halves torqued; no impact overdrive planet will have lube oil cut guns! off as well. • Constant converter feed This won’t be detectable on a gauge, because the pump is delivering Constant converter feed allows the the 39.4 PSI the spring value demands. system to maintain a steady source 18

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of oil to the converter feed circuit and overdrive planet. There are several ways to provide this: • Grind a flat on the pressure regulator valve (figure 2) • Use an aftermarket pressure regulator valve • Replace the coast clutch drum and stator tube bushings; this helps preserve lube oil flow to the overdrive planet • Make sure the lube orifice passages are open (figure 3 and 4) Time and mileage can create performance problems with any transmission component. Sometimes the part will have an unseen defect and your best efforts to restore function may fail. No matter how hard you try, sometimes the job simply requires a new part; not another used one.

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 2:43 PM

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10/3/13 11:27 PM

ETE REMAN

Building a New Future Big things are happening at ETE REMAN – 160,000 square feet of big things, to be exact. Located less than a mile away from its current headquarters, the latest real estate purchase by ETE REMAN is the culmination of a family-owned business’ years of hard work.

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“This gives us the space we need to continue growing,” explains Lawrence Loshak, Vice President of Manufacturing. “Not only will we have more lines operating, the extra room will allow us to be more efficient. We’re going to be working smarter.”

10/3/13 10:57 AM

(L-R) VP of Finance Deanna Akhmadeyev, Executive Vice President Mikhail Shakhnovich, President and Founder Sam Loshak, VP of Manufacturing Lawrence Loshak, and VP of Sales and Distribution Noah (L-R) of Finance Akhmadeyev, Vice President Mikhail Shakhnovich, President and Founder Sam Loshak, VP of Manufacturing Lawrence Loshak, and VP of Sales and Distribution Noah RickunVP stand in whatDeanna will be the productionExecutive floor of ETE REMAN’s new headquarters. Rickun stand in what will be the production floor of ETE REMAN’s new headquarters.

Once construction is completed, Once construction is completed, the former big box store will the former big box store will house office, training and meeting house office, training and meeting spaces, inventory, core spaces, inventory, core processing, and an expanded, processing, and an expanded, fully modernized manufacturing fully modernized manufacturing operation. operation. Twenty-eight transmission Twenty-eight transmission assembly cells will be served by a assembly cells will be served by a master computer-operated master computer-operated conveyor system, allowing for the conveyor system, allowing for the efficient transportation of efficient transportation of components and finished goods. components and finished goods. In addition, four new In addition, four new dynamometers will be added, dynamometers will be added, bringing the number of dyno bringing the number of dyno testing stations to 14. These testing stations to 14. These stations will operate on stations will operate on proprietary hardware and proprietary hardware and software that ETE’s Research and software that ETE’s Research and Development department has Development department has built in-house, complete with built in-house, complete with simulation, data acquisition, and simulation, data acquisition, and data control for new technologies. data control for new technologies.

GEARS October/November 2013

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“We’re heavily invested in our “We’re heavily invested in our dynamometers – in time and dynamometers – in time and money,” says Lawrence. money,” says Lawrence. “There’s a lot of time that goes “There’s a lot of time that goes into setting up a transmission to into setting up a transmission to test it. Because of the test it. Because of the innovations that have come innovations that have come from R&D, we’ve been able to from R&D, we’ve been able to cut that time in half and nearly cut that time in half and nearly double our productivity. double our productivity. Executive Vice President Mikhail Executive Vice President Mikhail Shakhnovich, a hydraulic and Shakhnovich, a hydraulic and mechanical engineer, oversees mechanical engineer, oversees the Research and Development the Research and Development team responsible for many of team responsible for many of these innovations in processes these innovations in processes and technology. Currently, his and technology. Currently, his team is developing a team is developing a computer-operated control computer-operated control system that will set up system that will set up checkpoints at every step of the checkpoints at every step of the remanufacturing process and remanufacturing process and ensure consistency in product ensure consistency in product quality. quality.

Once ETE REMAN moves into its new headquarters, it will Oncefour ETEnew REMAN moves intoEach its new it will gain dynamometers. dynoheadquarters, machine is custom gain four newto dynamometers. dyno machine is custom programmed test a differentEach family of transmissions. programmed to test a different family of transmissions.

All bushings used are custom machined to spec in the All bushings used are machined to specover in the bushing department. Thiscustom allows for better control the bushing department. Thisofallows for better control over the quality and performance each bushing. quality and performance of each bushing.

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10/3/13 12:42 PM

ETE REMAN

Building a New Future

A panoramic view of ETE REMAN’s new headquarters. Located at 8700 N. Servite Dr. in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, this 160,000 square foot former big box store is more than double the size of its current facility. Some operations, including core processing, have already moved to the new location.

Big things are happening at ETE REMAN – 160,000 square feet of big things, to be exact. Located less than a mile away from its current headquarters, the latest real estate purchase by ETE REMAN is the culmination of a family-owned business’ years of hard work.

Sam Loshak, President and Founder of ETE REMAN

“This gives us the space we need to continue growing,” explains Lawrence Loshak, Vice President of Manufacturing. “Not only will we have more lines operating, the extra room will allow us to be more efficient. We’re going to be working smarter.”

ABC Auto Parts and Service, the precursor to what would eventually become ETE REMAN.

“It’s important that we keep up with new technologies,” says Sam Loshak, President and Founder of ETE REMAN. “If we want to continue growing and building more transmissions, we have to adapt. That’s what this new building is, we’re adapting.” Not bad for someone who got started in the automotive industry by accident – car accident, that is.

As his interest in the industry grew, he changed his focus from automotive salvage to repair, forming Engine and Transmission Exchange. Eventually, ETE had grown to include three shops and more than 45 lifts. To meet an increasing demand for engines and transmissions, Sam opened a centralized rebuilding facility that would quickly grow into a full-scale powertrain remanufacturing facility.

In 1978, Sam’s car had an unfortunate encounter with another vehicle. In exchange for the parts necessary to repair his car, he worked nights and weekends at a salvage yard. A year later, he would open his own salvage yard, ABC Auto Parts and Service.

Today, ETE REMAN is one of the largest and most diverse transmission remanufacturers in the nation. Current offerings include more than 1,800 different foreign & domestic transmissions and transfer cases for more than 16,000 vehicle applications.

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GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 12:49 PM

Over the past year, ETE REMAN has expanded its product offerings to include front differentials and 6-speed transmissions, grown its Customer Loyalty, Product Support, and Production teams by 90 employees, opened warehouses in Dallas, Texas, and Portland, Oregon, and launched its online catalog. (L-R) VP of Finance Deanna Akhmadeyev, Executive Vice President Mikhail Shakhnovich, President and Founder Sam Loshak, VP of Manufacturing Lawrence Loshak, and VP of Sales and Distribution Noah Rickun stand in what will be the production floor of ETE REMAN’s new headquarters.

For Noah Rickun, Vice President of Sales and Distribution, the creation of this customer tool has been a labor of love. “It’s always been a goal to have an online catalog, but, once we did it, we “We’re invested in our Once construction is completed, wanted to make sure we did it right. A lotheavily of dynamometers – in time and the former boxhas store will thought and big effort gone into developing our money,” Lawrence. house office, training and meeting catalog. And I guarantee there isn’t a single says lot of time that goes spaces, inventory, automatic transmission core catalog “There’s that’s aas processing, andor an intuitive, sexy, fastexpanded, as buyete.com.”into setting up a transmission to test it. Because of the fully modernized manufacturing innovations operation. In the new facility, ETE REMAN will continue to that have come from R&D, we’ve been able to expand and refine its offerings. cut that time in half and nearly Twenty-eight transmission double our productivity. assembly will be served by a But Sam’scells philosophy on growth remains simple:

Once ETE REMAN moves into its new headquarters, it will gain four new dynamometers. Each dyno machine is custom

mastercan never computer-operated “You achieve quality by focusing on programmed to test a different family of transmissions. Executive Vice President Mikhail conveyor system, for thetransmissions, quantity. We’ll allowing make more but efficient transportation we’ll also make them better.of Without Shakhnovich, quality, we a hydraulic and components and the finished goods. can never reach quantity we wish mechanical for to grow engineer, oversees the Research and Development In addition, four new together with our customers.” team responsible for many of dynamometers will be added, these innovations in processes bringing the number of dyno and technology. Currently, his testing stations to 14. These is developing a stations will Written operate onBrock and team by Aimee Jennifer Porter computer-operated control proprietary hardware of ETE REMANand system that will set up software that ETE’s Research and To learn more about ETE checkpoints REMAN, visit at every step of the Development department has Over the past year, ETE REMAN’s product offerings have grown to include transfer cases, front All bushings used are custom machined to spec in the etereman.comwith or call 866.717.9800. remanufacturing process and differentials, and 6-speed automatic transmissions. built in-house, complete bushing department. This allows for better control over the ensure consistency in product quality and performance of each bushing. simulation, data acquisition, and quality. data control for new technologies.

GEARS October/November 2013

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10/3/13 12:55 PM

TALES FROM THE BENCH

Don't Guess: Test!

by Jarad Warren

Ford's 4F27E, FN4A-EL, FNR5

members.atra.com

T

he 4F27E transmission family has been around for more than ten years, and has become a fairly common sight in today’s shops. Ford calls this transmission the 4F27E; it comes in the Focus and Transit Connect. Mazda also has their version: Called the FN4A-EL, it comes in the Mazda 2, Mazda 3, and Mazda 5. Then you have the 5-speed FNR5 that comes in the Ford Fusion and Mazda 6. These units have some very common wear areas, which can cause some very common problems. In this article, we’ll look at how to test for that wear, using air testing, vacuum testing, and wet air testing procedures. These tests will help you identify problem areas and repair them… before they become a bigger problem. We’ll look at the servo pin bore, pressure regulator valve, solenoid pressure regulator valve, converter relief valve, and the rear cover.

Servo Pin Bore

While it’s called a 2-4 band, the servo and band operation are critical for 2nd, 3rd, and 4th gears. Here’s why: The band is applied in 2nd and 4th gears. But on the 2-3 upshift, direct apply oil is sent to the back of the 2-4 servo. For that shift, the 2-4 servo acts as 24

1jarad1013.indd 24

Figure 1

a 3rd gear accumulator, because it still has the 2nd gear oil applied to the front of the servo. Spring pressure combined with 3rd apply oil overcome the band apply oil and the band releases as the direct clutches come on. On the 3-4 shift, forward clutch oil is released. That cuts off the servo release oil, so the band reapplies for 4th gear. When the servo pin bore wears, direct clutch apply oil leaks to the sump. This can cause the direct clutches to fail.

Testing the servo pin bore is easy and takes very little time: • Remove the valve body. • Locate the 2-4 band release port (figure 1). • Apply air to the servo release during teardown. You shouldn’t see any signs of a leak between the servo band pin and the inside of the case. The servo shown had a large leak around the pin bore that needed to be addressed (figure 2). GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 10:38 PM

Check both stator support bushings

Figure 3

Torque Converter Clutch Performance

Figure 2

There are aftermarket kits available for servo pin bore wear: Check with your aftermarket suppliers for the repair.

GEARS October/November 2013

1jarad1013.indd 25

A common problem is code P0741 — TCC stuck off. Let’s talk about this code. Just a little testing before the transmission hits the bench will save time and money. Look at the freeze frame data when the code set: usually you’ll see the torque converter clutch solenoid com-

manded on. The solenoid and valve are functioning normally, but the converter can’t keep the slip rate down. The two areas you should check are the TCC circuit and the converter itself. The torque converter clutch circuit has a problem built into it: It uses two bushings in the pump stator support to separate the torque converter clutch release oil and converter apply pressure. Worse yet, the bushings are close

25

10/3/13 10:38 PM

Don't Guess: Test! Ford's 4F27E, FN4A-EL, FNR5

Figure 4

together and wear quickly because they have so little support (figure 3). To test the bushings, first you’ll need to plug the hole in the stator support (figure 4). • Slide the stator support onto the input drum. • Pour ATF into the input shaft. • Apply low air pressure into the tip of input shaft. There should be no oil or air leaking around the shaft and bushings (Figure 5). You can also check the stator support bushings with a vacuum test stand: • Clean and dry the shaft and the stator support. • Plug the hole in the stator support. • Apply a vacuum to the tip of the input shaft. Testing with vacuum will give you numbers to work with and lets you keep track of pass and fail results. After you install new bushings in the stator support, repeat the test to confirm your fix.

The pressure regulator valve is almost always worn on this transmission. Here’s an easy, quick test: • Pour ATF into the test port. • Cover the test location. • Apply low air pressure. If ATF and air leak into the passages next to the test port (figure 7), the bore needs to be addressed.

Figure 5

If you like to compare test results, you can perform a simple vacuum test on the same test port. This can save you time and money, because it’ll show what valves need to be repaired and where you can save money on unneeded repairs.

Valve Body

Let’s test the pressure regulator valve and converter relief valve in the main section of valve body (figure 6). 26

1jarad1013.indd 26

Figure 6

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 10:38 PM

More profits for shops is why Toledo TranskitTM rebuild kits include solenoid filter screens and/or solenoid orings where required. Toledo TranskitTM brand kits contain the components that are needed to complete the rebuild which prevents the technician from having to stop and order missing parts. Saving time and money means more profits for shops.

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S-70 Repair Kit A604 Solenoid Pack 1989-98 S-304 Repair Kit A604 Solenoid 2000-Up S-305 Repair Kit A606 Solenoid 1993-Up D92933 4419478 92933 Wire Harness Repair Kit A604 (Input and Output Sensors) 1989-Up 4854 Solenoid Repair Kit 45RFE 5-45RFE, 68RFE 2004-Up DK22954B 4617463 Solenoid Kit A518 A618 {Includes Overdrive & Lockup | Governer Pressure Sensor} 1996-99

Filter screens 42740C 42266B 42266A 49565096 49965069 49965063 46065096 46341C 45065074 45065062 46465060 46865101 45065063 45065064

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Screen Filter 4T80E Solenoid 1993-03 Filter 4L60E Force Motor (Late) Filter 4L60E Shift Solenoid (Small Rectangular) (Snaps on Valve Body Plate) Screen Filter A604 Solenoid 1989-Up Screen Filter A604 Solenoid 1989-99 1989-Up Screen Filter A606 Solenoid Screen Plate Screen Filter AODE 4R70W/E 4R75W/E Solenoid Feed (In Valve Body) 1992-Up Screen AXOD/AXODE By-Pass Solenoid 1986-Up Screen Filter 4R44E 5R44E EPC Limit Filter 1995-Up Screen Filter A4LD TCC Solenoid Screen Filter E4OD/4R100 Solenoids (Fits On Separator Plate) Screen Filter 5R110W Solenoid Thimble Plate 2003-Up Screen Filter 5R55N Solenoid Plate 1999-02 Screen Filter 5R55S 5R55W Solenoid Plate 2002-Up

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10/4/13 7:47 AM

Don't Guess: Test! Ford's 4F27E, FN4A-EL, FNR5

Figure 8

Figure 7

Wear in the pressure regulator valve may cause unstable line pressure, hard shifts, and problems with converter pressure and lube. The converter relief valve has two ports that need to be tested. When worn, this valve will affect the torque converter clutch apply and release, and may set converter slip codes. A vacuum or wet air test at both locations will show whether this bore needs to be repaired. When testing the converter relief valve port A, you’re only checking one valve bore land; when checking location B you’re testing two valve bore lands at the same time. So test port B will always leak more than A; this is normal.

measuring the wear at two valve bore lands at the same time, so test port B will always leak more than A; this is normal.

End Cover

Check the ring lands on the end cover closely, because wear in this area is very common. Figure 9 shows a worn cover at the top ring land. Also inspect the direct drum for ring land wear. This

will cause a 2-3 flare or cause a slip in 3rd gear. By testing these areas and identifying wear, you’ll be able to target the root cause of the condition, instead of simply guessing. Because testing is more effective… and more profitable… than guessing, any day!

Upper Valve Body

In this section of the valve body you need to pay attention to the solenoid pressure regulator valve. A worn solenoid pressure regulator valve will cause low line pressure and low clutch pressure. This valve commonly wears out and sticks. The test locations (figure 8) can be vacuum or wet air tested. There are two locations to test; at location B you’ll need to block the passage on the back of the valve body while testing. The test at location B is 28

1jarad1013.indd 28

Figure 9

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/13 10:38 PM

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10/3/13 11:19 PM

THE WORD ON THE STREET

Stop Clanking Around!

by Mike Souza members.atra.com

A

s with most manufacturers, updates and interchanges become part of growing up, but they also can become nightmares. In this issue of “Word on the Street” we’re dealing with a 2010 Dodge Ram 4X4 pickup equipped with a 68RFE transmission that has a “clank” noise caused by a separator plate. The complaint is a metallic-type clank that only occurs when shifting from drive to neutral. The noise is the same in 2-wheel or 4-wheel drive, and seems to get worse as the transmission temperature rises. The differential and driveshafts were fine; the engine and transmission mounts were all good. Engine idle was normal, with no noticeable driveability problems. No codes present for the engine or transmission. The noise is definitely coming from the transmission. You can hear the clank every time you move the shifter from drive to neutral. Removing and disassembling the transmission revealed some wear in the clutches and bushings, but nothing that should have caused the clanking noise:

32

1mikesouza1013.indd 32

Figure 1

no broken parts, worn splines, or excessive endplay problems. A little research revealed that the customer’s complaint is “normal” by factory standards. What’s interesting about that is they’ve issued a bulletin that addresses this exact complaint: Dodge TSB #21-010-12, dated July 16, 2012, for the transmission and transfer case group. The TSB addresses a complaint of a “clank noise” when shifting the transmission from drive to neutral. It applies

to 2011–12 Ram 1500, 2500, and 3500 series trucks, plus Durango, Jeep Grand Cherokee, and International trucks equipped with an RFE transmission. The correction requires an updated valve body separator plate, part number 52120004AB. The TSB doesn’t distinguish between the 545RFE and 68RFE; it just says RFE transmission. The 545RFE and 68RFE valve bodies are virtually the same. The main difference is the heavier accumulator springs and updated manual valve in the 68RFE. GEARS October/November 2013

10/4/13 10:27 AM

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Stop Clanking Around!

So how does a separator plate cause a clank when shifting from drive to neutral? The 68RFE first appeared in the 2006 model year. Early models, from 2006 to 2008, used both an overdrive and a multi-select solenoid to control the overdrive clutch. In 4th and 5th gears, the overdrive solenoid and multi-select solenoid feed oil to the overdrive clutch (figure 1). In 6th gear, the overdrive solenoid alone controls the oil to the overdrive clutch (figure 2). In mid-2009 to 2010, the overdrive clutch solenoid was eliminated; the overdrive clutch was controlled exclusively by the multi-select solenoid. This required a new style solenoid body and separator plate, for obvious reasons. You can identify the updated solenoid block by

the gray connector (figure 3). At the same time they removed the manual 2 and 1 detent hydraulic circuits and added “autostick mode (sport shift).”

The multi-select solenoid uses a new circuit through the manual valve to provide control oil to the overdrive clutch in 4th, 5th, and 6th gears (figure 4).

Figure 2

34

Figure 3

1mikesouza1013.indd 34

Figure 4

GEARS October/November 2013

10/4/13 10:28 AM

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10/3/13 10:57 PM

Stop Clanking Around!

There were also some checkball changes. Checkballs 6 and 7 were eliminated in the 2009 model year (figure 5). The checkball functions are explained in the chart (figure 6). The 2006-to-2008 valve body separator plate (part number 54563016AB) is shown in figure 7. The 2009-andlater separator plate (part number 52120004A; figure 8) identifies the feed holes that were eliminated over checkball 6 and 7 locations. Checkball 6 was removed to allow the multi select solenoid to control overdrive clutch apply instead of the overdrive solenoid. This eliminated the need for the overdrive solenoid. Checkball 7 was removed to allow the 2C solenoid to control the 2C clutch apply CHECK BALL FUNCTION in the manual 2 range instead of Ball #1 Used in 2nd through 6th gear the multi select solenoid. Ball #2 Used in 5th and 6th gear The slot was changed to an or- Ball #3 Used in Reverse ifice to slow the release of the un- Ball #4 Used in 1st through 4th gear

derdrive clutch Ball #5 Used in 2nd, 3rd, 5th and 6th gear when shifting from drive to Ball #6 Used in 4th, 5th and 6th gear neutral or park (part number Ball #7 Used in 2nd and 6th gear 52120004AB; Figure 6 figure 9). So here’s what happens: The underdrive and low/reverse clutch are applied in drive. When the shifter goes from drive to neutral, the underdrive clutch releases so quickly that it creates a rollover effect. This causes the clank. Simply update the separator plate to get rid of the clank when shifting from drive to neutral. But this only affects model years with the new solenoid configuration. There are a couple other items to look at: There may be a time when a 2009-or-later 68RFE arrives at your shop with these two checkballs missing. Never assume that they’ve deteriorated or were lost during teardown. Always place the separator plate over the valve body: If there’s only one hole over the bathtub, you can assume there shouldn’t 36

1mikesouza1013.indd 36

Figure 5

Figure 7

GEARS October/November 2013

10/4/13 10:28 AM

Figure 8

be checkball in that location. Don’t make the mistake of installing checkballs 6 or 7 with the updated spacer plate on any RFE transmission. Here are some of the complaints caused when checkballs 6 or 7 were added to the valve body using the later separator plate: • Installing the number 6 checkball

Figure 9

with the updated spacer plate will restrict oil to the overdrive clutch. This may set code P0871 (overdrive pressure switch rationality), and cause premature overdrive clutch failure. • If you install the number 7 checkball with the updated plate, it will restrict oil to the 2C clutch. This

may set code P0846 (2C pressure switch rationality) and cause premature 2C clutch failure. I hope this additional information helps prevent your shop from making a mistake while rebuilding a later model 68RFE transmission.

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10/4/13 10:28 AM

UP YOUR BUSINESS

“A KODAK MOMENT… IT’S NOT A PRETTY PICTURE”

by Thom Tschetter

Kodak’s declaration of bankruptcy, last year closed out a glorious chapter in the history of the photography business.

I

n March of 2004, Eastman Kodak stock was sold for over $34.00 per share. By February of 2012 (just 8 years later), its stock value was under $0.35 per share, and as I write this article, it’s less than $0.13… yes, you’re reading that right; less than 13 cents per share! Kodak, a Blue Chip, Fortune 500, company - a household brand with its internationally recognized “Kodak Moment” motto spiraled into bankruptcy. Kodak’s declaration of bankruptcy, last year closed out a glorious chapter in the history of the photography business. Over 110 years ago, Kodak trans38

oct-nov tom_final_jx.indd 38

formed photography from a highly complex, alchemy-like activity, dominated by professional photographers and studios into a popular, even obligatory activity that became an integral part of people’s lives. A loyal customer base of families funded Kodak’s meteoric rise. Moms, Dads and even children took more pictures than any other market segment, printed them, shared them with friends, family and associates, saved them in albums, and displayed them in offices and living rooms. Thus, when digital technology arrived in the photography industry, Kodak

occupied a world that was largely its own creation. There was no one more absorbed in the culture of film, film cameras, film processing, and hardcopy prints than Kodak. They held the “unshakeable belief” that digital cameras presented only an alternative, but would not replace Kodak’s products and associated culture. This belief was fundamentally flawed, and Kodak threw good money after bad in its futile effort to defeat, hold off, or coexist with the new digital competition. Here are five reasons for Kodak’s failure. GEARS October/November 2013

10/2/2013 1:42:30 PM

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“A Kodak Moment… It’s Not a Pretty Picture”

Trying to force consumers into Kodak’s self-serving universe was doomed, but Kodak died trying.

1. They were caught in a time warp. Kodak’s top management never fully grasped how the world around them was changing. Rather than asking their customers, they clung to their “unshakeable belief” that people would never part with hard-copy prints, and that people valued film-based photos for their high quality. In other words, they saw digital as a substandard substitute for film photography. In the end, digital cameras prevailed not because they eventually offered higher quality or because customers were able to get hard prints, but because consumers no longer wanted them. 2. They believed they had a corner on distribution. Because digital cameras were viewed by the market more as easy-to-use “electronic gadgets” than fine specialty instruments, they were readily available in any store that sold electronics. Kodak was now playing on new turf. Kodak’s brand name and products came to be associated with traditional photography and higher user cost rather than digital. 3. They tried to dictate to their customers. Kodak was in uncharted territory, and rather than accepting it as the new reality, it kept trying to recreate the photography universe of yester-year. A universe based around sentimental, hard-copy images, stored in albums, to memorialize family history, reunions, and vacations. 4. They sacrificed market share for profit margins. Even when the writing was on the wall, they were unwilling to let go of the lucrative gross margins 40

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of nearly 70% associated with the film business. Instead, Kodak tried to prolong the life of film with smaller cameras, digitally coded film, and hybrid technologies such as Photo CDs and KodakGallery.com, Kodak’s attempts to generate revenue from digital images. 5. Kodak was a victim of a doomed strategy for recovery. Kodak did not recognize or accept its own strengths, weaknesses and limitations, and even worse, it failed to recognize the strengths, weaknesses and limitations of its new digital competition. Consequently, its strategy for revival never had much of a chance. Kodak’s new strategy was based on the assumption that consumers of the future will snap pictures on Kodak’s cameras, save them on its memory cards, put them on paper through its printers, and edit them on its in-store digital kiosks. Trying to force consumers into Kodak’s self-serving universe was doomed, but Kodak died trying. What can we learn from Kodak? Kodak was pursuing a fundamentally flawed strategy, and hence, was throwing good money after bad in its effort to defeat, hold off, or coexist with the new digital competition. The challenges Kodak faced were not unique to its industry. All industries have lifecycles that often include “change, adapt, or die” turning points. New technology, innovative competitors, and changing consumer needs and desires all contribute to the dynamic of change. A few examples that pop to

mind include: The telephone industry going from wired to wireless; to mobile phones that are handheld computers with, coincidentally, high-quality digital cameras. The publishing industry (newspapers, books, and magazines) going digital. Retailers moving to E-tailing to compete with new companies like Amazon. News programs are no longer dominated by newscasters reading the news; we now have “entertainment” news. Digital music gadgets have forced radio stations to move to live, interactive talk or personality driven programming. The days of the disc jockey just introducing and playing music are long gone. With the evolution of online banking and mini-branches in grocery stores, I can’t remember the last time I actually was inside a bank building. The United States Postal Service hasn’t figured out a solution to its challenges and, like Kodak, continues to cling to its antiquated business model. Can you see the similarities between Kodak and our industry, as we face greater technological challenges, new competitors using new distribution and sales methods, new supply channels, and a changing market in terms of what customers want and need? First, they tried to ignore the new technology hoping it would go away by itself. Then they tried to attack it claiming it didn’t measure up to the old technology - too expensive, too slow, too complicated, etc. GEARS October/November 2013

10/2/2013 1:42:30 PM

Finally, they tried to prolong the life of the existing business model by attempting to create synergies between the new and the old. In doing so, they kept delaying any serious commitment to addressing the new order of things. The truth is it makes more sense to invest in developing and implementing new strategies that are based on meeting the needs and desires of customers by filling voids and tapping into new opportunities that are created by the changes. In short, like it or not, the new generation of customers, employees, and “customer-centric” entrepreneurs are “in charge.” Embrace the uncertainty and be prepared to be driven in unforeseen directions. This is a far cry from spending your time, money, energy, and emotions fighting the tides of change. Instead, think about ways to harness the inherent energy and put it to work for you. The important lessons are to avoid attachment to our past and to turn legacy beliefs onto new strategies. Let’s refrain from prolonging the life of “it’s

1/4 ISLAND

GEARS October/November 2013

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the way it’s always been” or trying to create false synergies between the old and the new. And, most of all, let’s base future new strategies around customers – being customer-centric rather than clinging to an existing business model.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Thom Tschetter Has served our industry for more than three decades as a management and sales educator. He owned a chain of award-winning transmission centers in Washington State for over 25 years. In 1996 his business was honored as the number 1 small business in the state and ranked in the top 10, nationally. He also has served the Better Business Bureau as a certified arbitrator for over 15 years and often uses that experience as topics for this feature column.

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10/2/2013 1:42:34 PM

Getting Past Their Listening Filters

“I

can’t hear you!” exclaimed the drill sergeant as the troops responded to his question. We had to yell our heads off to please the guy when he asked our platoon a question. Whether you’ve been in the military or not, I’m sure you can identify with the above scenario. Someone asks the audience a question and then keeps asking until they scream the answer in unison. That may be a good way to loosen up an audience, but it’s certainly not effective in one-to-one conversation. Trouble is, many times our customers and coworkers “can’t hear” us either. It’s not that they miss the sounds we make; it’s just that they don’t get our meaning clearly. Just because you tell someone something, it doesn’t mean your job as a communicator is done: The job is only done when they understand what you were trying to say. Some folks just push the responsibility away and say, “I told you but you didn’t listen,” as if that somehow solves the problem. When the student isn’t learning, the teacher isn’t teaching. Even if they’ve tried really hard to teach, they aren’t teaching. The same is true for you and me. We need to transcend our own point of view and see the bigger picture. If they aren’t getting our meaning, then nobody’s advancing — not us and not them. Sometimes, as in Star Trek, they’ve “got their shields up” and you aren’t getting through. How can you get through to them? I once gave a communication skills seminar in a prison in New Hampshire to a group of inmates. As an illustration, I asked various inmates to “teach me how to smoke a cigarette.” One told me to put the cigarette in my mouth first. 42

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by Jim Cathcart So I did what he said: I put the entire cigarette inside my mouth. Another said, “No, just put the end with the filter in your mouth.” So I broke off the filter and put it in my mouth. By that time they were frustrated with my literal interpretation of their directions. Then one inmate came forward and said, “Watch this.” He put a cigarette to his mouth, took out his lighter, lit the smoke, and took a drag from it. When he exhaled the smoke he looked at me and said, “Do that.” Then he sat down. Point made, lesson learned. And his fellow inmates applauded him. So did I. Some things are best communicated through example. When teaching a skill, show an example. Then observe as the person follows your instructions.

When Teaching a skill, show an example. Then observe as the person follows your instructions When explaining an idea, ask for feedback. “Does that make sense to you? How would you apply it?” When communicating a feeling, be sure you have their full attention first. Saying “I’m sorry; I must’ve misunderstood what you wanted” is a nice sentiment, but, without their full attention, you’re just making sounds. Timing is sometimes as important as the message itself. Imagine a customer comes to you with a complaint; he feels really frustrated or suspects that you were ripping him off. If you interrupt him in the first few moments to say, “Sorry, I got it wrong. Now let’s correct it,” he may still have his shields up. So your apology bounces off. His emotions are in the way. People have a need to vent first,

before they’re ready to listen. Let them talk a bit, and then politely interrupt with your apology or solution. Everything we hear, see, or think is passed through our own beliefs and assumptions before it reaches our understanding. We filter our opinions and judgments about people by comparing them with others we’ve known. If your behavior is similar to someone they don’t trust, then they won’t trust you. Likewise, if you behave in ways that indicate integrity and caring, then you’ll usually get past their filters. Here’s a short formula you can use to get past the shields or filters that others put up in communication. 1. Listen — truly try to understand what they are saying or feeling. 2. Observe — notice when they change body posture, indicating that they’re ready to listen to you. 3. Tell them what you have to say, and use their own words, where appropriate, to prove that you heard them. 4. Ask for their opinion — “How does that sound to you? Would that make you feel more confident about this solution?” 5. Confirm that the problem is solved or the explanation is understood and accepted. Got it? No? Well then you just weren’t listening to me. I’m going to tell you again… not! See what I mean? When I assume that I’m just fine and you’re the one with the communication problem, then I make things worse by judging you. Instead, let me just offer my assistance. If you’d like a better explanation or more ideas, just write, call, or email me here at GEARS. I’m happy to assist you. Thanks for listening.

GEARS October/November 2013

10/3/2013 9:04:40 AM

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Another Expo for the Books

by Steve Bodofsky

U

nless you plan shows for a living, it’s hard to image just how much goes into putting on an event like Expo. We’re talking about a program with as many as a dozen different events occurring at the same time. It takes careful planning, oversight, and good old-fashioned luck for everything to go off smoothly. Well, this year the stars must have been in alignment, because the 2013 Expo was about as close to perfection as anyone could ever have hoped. This was an East Coast show; the third part of the regular three-show arc. It was held at the Washington Marriott Wardman Park Hotel in Washington, D.C. — a beautiful venue shrouded in historical significance and the majesty that is the United States capital.

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Selling Value expert Don Hutson addresses Friday’s management session.

This was the hotel where Thurgood Marshall stayed while making his case before the Supreme Court for Brown vs. the Topeka Board of Education. A leader in the ’60s civil rights movement, Marshall went on to become the first African-American justice of

the Supreme Court. Our Expo seminar program was held in the Thurgood Marshall wing, dedicated to the memory of this eminent American.

GEARS October/November 2013

10/7/13 1:47 PM

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10/3/13 11:23 PM

Another Expo for the Books

ATRA Technical Director, Lance Wiggins presents Mark Phillips the ATRA Master Tech Certification plaque during the ATRA Luncheon sponsored by Raybestos Powertrain

Dennis Madden and Jim Rodd: cutting the ribbon to officially open the trade show floor!

And because this year’s program was on the East Coast, the show took on a more intimate, warmer tone than those in Las Vegas. But that can be a good thing for those who made it a point to attend, because it makes for a more exclusive focus for the seminars and trade show. The tech seminars set a new record this year, packing in 27½ hours of technical information and training. The programs were a mix of what-we’re-seeing-right-now along with what’s-coming-down-the-pike, with a smattering of diagnostic-and-repair-techniques-andprocedures for good measure. The programs began bright and early Thursday morning and went on until almost noon on Sunday. Thursday 48

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tech seminar presenters included ATRA’s Mark Puccinelli, Bill Brayton, and Mike Souza, along with Scott Halley from Lubrizol, Dan Marinucci from Communiqué, and John Eleftherakis from Filtran. The programs were Attendees unwind after a full day of learning during Thursday night’s Kick-off reception, hosted by GEARS magazine. well received, and most attendees were thrilled by how much they learned. Expo newcomWhen asked whether he’d be er Pete Hazelden of Atlas Transmission back next year, Pete didn’t hesitate: in Sumter, South Carolina, had this to “Absolutely! But next year I’m going say: “Expo was wonderful; I learned to come out a few days early so I have more than I could take in… thank gooda chance to get settled before the show begins.” Can’t blame him there. ness for the books and disk!” GEARS October/November 2013

10/7/13 1:47 PM

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6/19/13 10:48 PM

Another Expo for the Books

Larry Winget entertained and informed with his keynote address during the ATRA Luncheon sponsored by Raybestos Powertrain

ATRA CEO, Dennis Madden (center) presents the ATRA Distinguished Supplier Award to Raybestos Powertrain’s Al Avila, Vice President Sales & Application’s (left) and Reinhard Brinkmeier, Vice President, Gearbox Holding, Inc. A busy show floor kept both exhibitors and attendees engaged throughout the event.

Raybestos gave away an iPod to one lucky lunch attendee. Dennis Madden and Reinhard Brinkmeier with the winner!

The management program began with some familiar faces: Maylon Newton from ESI and Danny Sanchez of Autoshop Solutions. Familiar, yes, but with many new and valuable ideas to share. The seminars kicked off again early Friday morning, with old and new faces in both programs. On the management side, Dave Riccio lent his tips for providing extra value with your service. Then a new face — Speakers’ Hall-of-Fame inductee Don Hudson — discussed how to sell more value instead of lowering prices. The tech seminars were presented by Alan McAvoy from Chrysler, Maura Stafford from Sonnax, John Parmenter from Precision International, and Jack Rosebro from Perfect Sky. 50

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No Expo would be complete without the Raybestos luncheon, and this year’s was no exception. For entertainment, Larry Winget reprised his humorous, no-nonsense approach to personal development that’s sure to get you thinking… and laughing. He was followed by a short awards ceremony: First, Mark Phillips was honored for earning ATRA’s new Master Technician Certification. The award was presented by ATRA Tech Director Lance Wiggins, and Lance was thrilled to notice how many attendees he heard congratulating Mark as he returned to his seat. Then ATRA CEO Dennis Madden presented ATRA’s Distinguished Supplier Award to Raybestos for their

years of sponsorship and support for the industry. Al Avila, vice president of sales and marketing, accepted the award for Raybestos. After a sumptuous lunch, ATRA Board President Jim Rodd joined Dennis to cut the ribbon and open the trade show floor. The intimate setting allowed exhibitors to make a more personal connection and spend more time with attendees. After the trade show closed for the day, another staple of the show opened: the cocktail reception, hosted as always by Transtar Industries. Great food and drinks and terrific entertainment all provided the backdrop for the perfect opportunity to press the flesh and rub elbows with industry friends, old and new. GEARS October/November 2013

10/7/13 2:36 PM

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10/8/12 12:07 AM

Another Expo for the Books

Saturday’s management seminar was another first: an entire seminar schedule presented by a single speaker. And what a speaker it was! Jim Cathcart, GEARS contributor and Speaker’s Hall-of-Fame inductee, spent the morning discussing the concept of relationship selling. For many it was the highlight of the show. The technical seminars were presented by Sean Boyle of Southern Illinois University, Niel Speetjens from Speetjens Transmission Service, Coen van Beek from CVT Pushbelt BV, and ATRA’s own Steve Garrett. You came for the show, but you’re in the nation’s capital; you can’t come all this way without taking getting a firsthand look at the sights that have been the backdrop for history. And we thought of that too, with a Discover D.C. moonlight tour of the city’s most ubiquitous buildings and monuments. Even a little rain wasn’t going to dampen our spirits for that! There were several busses, and each took a different path to make sure they didn’t pile up in the same place at the same time. But for a lucky few the tour began with a stop by the most famous residence in the world: the White House. Lucky, because the first couple busloads got to step out and take pictures of this historic home. But that ended before the later busses made their way there, as a motorcade arrived at the front entrance. Other stops and points of interest included the Capitol, the Lincoln Memorial, the Jefferson Memorial, the Washington Monument, and the memorials honoring the service men and women who gave their lives in the wars that kept our country free. It was an 52

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Great music…

inspirational tour of a city that’s been instrumental in shaping our country’s history… and its future. The Sunday management seminars were kicked off by an openfloor discussion by Rodger Bland, followed by two newcomers: Bill Haas from Haas Performance Consulting and Jordan Olivas from Budget Transmission Masters. The tech seminars included Jack Rosebro from Perfect Sky and Dr. Bill Henney from BlueReach Automation and Control. It was a brilliant close to a memorable show. No doubt about it: The 2013 Expo will be a tough act to follow. But follow it we will, next year in Las Vegas, Tearing up the dance floor at the Transtar reception! October 30 – November 2, back at the Rio All-Suite Hotel D.C. moonlight tour of the city’s most ubiquitous and Casino, just a few blocks off buildings and monuments. Even a little rain wasn’t the world-famous Strip. So mark going to dampen our spirits for that! your calendar and start making plans to attend… and we’ll look for you next year in Vegas!

GEARS October/November 2013

10/7/13 1:48 PM

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7/30/13 9:36 AM

Action Transmission Specialists: A Second Chance for Success

SHOP PROFILE

by Steve Bodofsky members.atra.com

Action Transmission Specialists: A Second Chance for Success

A

ction Transmission Specialists in Jacksonville, Florida, is the epitome of a successful Momand-Pop transmission shop. The owner, Robin Sidbury, runs the day-to-day operations. His wife, Cheryl, was instrumental in helping get the business off the ground; she steps in when the office gets busy and handles outside sales. Their son Kristopher is the shop’s lead technician and rebuilder, and Cheryl’s daughter, Kathryn Faris, is the office manager and takes care of their social media marketing. And while they aren’t setting the world on fire, the business keeps them well fed and happy. By most assessments, Action Transmission Specialists is a successful shop.

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Action Transmission Specialists: Shop Crew

Front of Shop

GEARS October/November 2013

10/2/13 2:29 PM

But it wasn’t always that way for Robin; it was a long road to get here with many stumbles along the way. He got his first taste of the business taking auto tech classes back in high school, and worked as an installer for a few months to earn credit while he was still in school. But it wasn’t long before he realized working in the shop wasn’t for him. So he took his first real job in the business in 1981 as the assistant manager for a local transmission franchise. His knack for customer contact and sales quickly moved him up through the ranks to managing the shop. Over the next 25 years or so he moved from one shop to the next and back again. He came to work for his current shop — then called Action Transmission Service — a couple times during his career. The owners liked him and were generally happy with his work. So, when Action’s owners decided to retire in 2003, they asked Robin if he was interested in buying the shop. He wasn’t in the right place to take on that much responsibility just then; someone else took the reigns while the original owners covered the loan. Then came the crash of 2008. Action’s new owners went bankrupt and the original owners regained control of their shop. But they were retired and weren’t in any position to open it again. So they called Robin. He wasn’t interested in buying the shop just then, but he agreed to run it for them. That gave him a little time to evaluate the business and see if he was interested in taking it over. That was November, 2008. He signed the papers to buy the shop just three months later: January, 2009. And business has been growing steadily ever since. “I opened the business with $200 in my bank account. Everyone told me that I’d probably never make it, but I told them, ‘the good news is, if I don’t make it, I’ll only be out two hundred bucks!’”

An Uphill Battle

That’s a simple timeline for Robin and the shop. But it doesn’t tell the whole story. Because, for Robin, getting there was truly an uphill battle. GEARS October/November 2013

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Art Vincent Installation Technician

Cheryl Sidbury, Wife, Takes care of everything and everyone

Kristopher Sidbury Rebuilder

That’s because he had a problem; a problem with addiction. He could do his job well enough, but his dependence always got in the way. Then, in 2005, he got sick. At first he thought it was just a sinus headache, but it wouldn’t go away. Then, a few

days later, he wasn’t able to move the left side of his body. The doctors said it was an infection that had made its way into his brain. So in August 2005, Robin underwent brain surgery to correct the problem. 55

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Action Transmission Specialists: A Second Chance for Success

Kathryn, Robin and Cheryl's daughter and Office Manager

After the surgery, the doctors said he’d never walk or work again. But he fought his way back, through repeated complications and setbacks, and today he walks with a slight limp. It took him two years, but he recovered and went back to work. Shops in the area were happy to hire him. But now they expected him to work for a lot less than he did before. Because now he was “disabled.” Meanwhile his addiction continued. He wound up in court and was ordered to attend a rehab program. So he joined Alcoholics Anonymous in March 2007, and that’s where he turned his life around. “As a salesman, I thought I controlled everything,” says Robin. “It’s how I was trained… it’s what you do and how you present yourself to make the sale. I also had the perception that success in life was about making a lot of money.” Today Robin believes that he was brought to his shop by a higher power, and that he was put there to help others. And that’s something he tries to do every day. “I’d reached a point where I believed that I’d never own my own shop; I figured that opportunity had passed me by. In fact, had I owned a shop earlier, I’d never have been able to keep it afloat. “But as soon as I got into recovery and realized that the whole world didn’t revolve around me… that I wasn’t in control of everything… this shop fell in my lap.” 56

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Giving Back

Anthony Torres Installation Technician and General Repair Technician

Like so many other shop owners who’ve been able to build a successful business, Robin learned that the best way to become successful is to forget about the money: Concentrate on serving the customer and the money will follow. “The way I see it, having a shop isn’t about what I can get from it,” says Robin. “It’s more about what I can give back.” And Robin is always aware of the customer who’s in trouble and needs his help. When faced with those customers, he’s quick to step in and do what he can, whether it’s about finding a used transmission or providing a payment plan to help the customer get back on the road quickly. One thing he came up with is a program he calls buy here, stay here. “I found a lot of customers don’t have $2500 sitting around for a repair, and I figured, why have them take the car home and let it sit outside their house? “So I try to get four or five hundred dollars down to cover the parts’ cost, and then I keep the car here. I set the customer up with a payment schedule — maybe $100 a week — until the job is paid off. “I have the customer sign a contract that includes a one-time, $100 processing fee. And if they don’t make their payments on time, we can add storage charges to their bill. “But customers generally appreciate the program, and it keeps a lot of

jobs here that might otherwise have gone down the road.” He recently added the CarCare1 GE credit card program to provide customers with another source for financing repairs. This program is available to all ATRA Members; check the ATRA web site for details or to sign up. For Robin, giving back doesn’t end in the shop. He also tries to provide the benefits of his experiences to others. “I volunteer at a local hospital in their behavioral health unit, working primarily with alcoholics and drug addicts who’ve either committed themselves — or have been committed — to help them get their lives back together.”

Who’s Running the Shop?

In addition to being the shop owner, Robin also manages the shop and takes care of the customers. It’s a lot of work and puts a lot of demands on his time. Over the last couple years he’s tried to hire a shop manager to free him up and give him time to work on his business. He hired guys who were trained and experienced in the business. But in each case, the manager was more interested in selling repairs than in actually fixing the customer’s problem. And that’s not a business model that Robin was willing to accept. “You take a transmission that has 100,000 miles apart and you’re going to find something wrong with it,” he says. “But that’s not necessarily what’s causing the customer’s problem.” GEARS October/November 2013

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Action Transmission Specialists: A Second Chance for Success

Happy customer with a 1972 Chevelle

Action Transmission Specialists: Teardown Area

ing a better quality of customer; customers who want to maintain their cars. I want to develop a relationship with them. Then, when they need a major transmission repair, we’ll be the first shop they’ll call. And the call won’t simply be to ask ‘how much?’” Diving and snorkeling - hobby Choosing ATRA When he opened his - "The Christ" at Pennecamp, Florida Keys doors, everyone told Robin Robin and Cheryl's hobby - sailing

His approach is simple: “Let’s see what it takes to solve the customer’s problem, let’s address that and sell him what he needs.” Robin was originally concerned with handing over his rebuilds to a 20-something technician, even his own son. But Kris has been diligent about learning the theory behind the transmissions, and he won’t give up until he’s solved the customer’s problem. “He holds himself to the highest standards of technical competence and integrity, and he expects a similar commitment from the shop,” Robin says proudly. “In a few years, he’ll be the one everyone else in town will call when they have a problem.”

Action’s Services

Generally speaking, Action Transmission Specialists is a transmission shop. They diagnose and repair transmissions. And virtually all of 58

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their transmission rebuilds are done in house; they rarely go out of house to buy a reman. Of course, recent economic events have forced Robin into making some changes, simply to help his customers. So, if the customer needs a transmission but can’t afford a rebuild, he’ll try to find a good used transmission to help the customer out of a tight spot. He’s also added general maintenance services, including oil changes, power steering fluid exchanges, and so on, along with the more familiar transmission fluid service. Robin recognizes the value of these services, for his business and his customers. The object of these services isn’t just about selling a job. “Too many of our customers were the people who never serviced their cars; the only time they came into a shop was when the car stopped running. “My hope was to begin attract-

that he should join one of the companies that offer technical support to the industry. He tried several, including ATRA. But it wasn’t long before he decided to drop the others and identify himself as an ATRA Member. And this year he attended Expo for the first time. He’d read the articles about the experience and he decided it was time to take full advantage of the intense training and business connections that Expo provides. So he signed himself up for the management seminar program, and he brought Kristopher along to attend the technical training program. No doubt they brought a lot home to put into action in the shop! Robin Sidbury has traveled a long, hard road to get where he is today. But thanks to a loving family and his undying belief in a higher power, he’s getting stronger and more profitable every day. It’s a story we should each consider when the going gets tough. GEARS October/November 2013

10/2/13 2:30 PM

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RIO HOTEL & CASINO, LAS VEGAS, NV

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ATRA Classics on the Coast Car Show 2013

Classics on The Coast

ATRA Classics on the coast Car Show held on September, 7 2013 with over 40,000 spectators

O

n September 7th, the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association Southern California chapter hosted it’s thirdannual "Classics on the Coast" car show in downtown Ventura, CA. The chapter president, Donny Caccamise, started the car show as a way to bring more awareness of ATRA to consumers and to offer ATRA shops in the area something fun to do. For the first two years, the show was held at a parking lot of a local car dealer, with about 100 cars and a couple thousand spectators. This year, the city of Ventura agreed to close off seven blocks of downtown. The show had over 250 beautiful classic cars. And according to the Ventura police department had an attendance of over 40,000 spectators! Ventura has a population of just over 100,000 so you can imagine the impact of hav60

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ing 40,000 people come to town. The area merchants were ecstatic! But most importantly, that’s 40,000 consumers who learned about ATRA. Members in the area had a chance to sponsor awards, which gave them an opportunity to have their name visible to the winners for years to come. Along with the classic cars were a couple of celebrity cars. Speed Demon, the world’s fasted piston-driven car with a speed in excess of 400 miles per hour was there, along with a custom car built by Chip Foose, world-renowned custom car designer and fabricator, and star of the reality TV series Overhaulin’ on Velocity. The announcement booth was manned by Donny and Spence of “Horsepower for an Hour”, a syndicated radio program in over 20 markets. They kept the name ATRA on the minds

ATRA's Choice Award...Mr. Allen 1956 Ford T-Bird

If you would like to know how to get your ATRA chapter involved or even start your own chapter call the ATRA Membership department at (866) 464-2872 -- Toll Free or you can email at [email protected]

GEARS October/November 2013

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of the spectators and by the end of the day there wasn’t a person there who didn’t know about ATRA. To top it off we found a write up in an online magazine: www.Autoadix.com just a couple days after the show. The event was such a success that the city has already agreed to host the show again for 2014. Imagine if ATRA chapters across the nation and Canada were able to develop similar events! A special thanks to Donny and Spence from Horsepower for an Hour, www.horspowerforanhour.com and for the dozens of volunteers and sponsors that made this show possible.

Award Winners: Best of Show...J.R. Rodriquez 1966 Chevy Impala ATRA's Choice Award...Mr. Allen 1956 Ford T-Bird Mayors Award....Darren Quintana 1957 Chevy Ray McClelland Award... R.J. McDonald 1967 Nova

Custom Car by Chip Foose

Speed Demon...Worlds Fastest Piston Engine Wheel Driven Car

Best of Show...J.R. Rodriquez 1966 Chevy Impala

GEARS October/November 2013

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Mayors Award....Darren Quintana 1957 Chevy

Sponsors: Title Sponsor= Mercedes Benz of Oxnard Diamond Sponsor = Chicago for Ribs restaurant in Ventura Trophy Sponsors: Pacific Carburetor Dave Wilkes Transmissions Mekaniks Plus El Puente Automotive AWS Automotive Concours Motors Leon's Transmissions Kia of Ventura Gold Coast Acura Paradise Chevrolet Vista Honda Coast Driveline CRC Performance DMC Transmissions JCG Performance Horsepower for an Hour Goleta Transmissions TNS Auto Body William L Morris Chevrolet Austin's Painting Fast Undercar White Elephant ... the band Full Throttle Kustomz Johnny Martinez Productions Ventura Trophy Show Contributors: Automotive Racing Products (ARP Fasteners) Speed Demon Magnuson Superchargers (Chip Foose 32 Roadster "Magnatude") Snap on Tools (Mark Endler) Chevrolet Racing Products & Equipment Lowes Home Improvement Lunch Box Restaurant CBS Studios (Los Angeles)

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POWER INDUSTRY NEWS

POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS Sonnax Announces New Executive Officers

GEARS does not endorse new products but makes this new information available to readers. If you have a new product, please email the press release information with applicable digital photo or drawing to [email protected] or send by mail to GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030.

experience in the transmission aftermarket to his new position, having held leadership roles in operations management, materials management, product development, and sales and marketing throughout his career.

Longtime Industry Professional Rob Gaul Needs Your Help!

Steve Jaussaud As Sonnax Industries continues to grow and innovate, President and CEO Tommy Harmon recently announced two organizational changes designed to position the aftermarket automotive products company for efficient future growth. Sonnax Vice President of Sales Steve Jaussaud has taken on a new role as senior vice president of product development. A veteran of the transmission/torque converter industry who has been with Sonnax for seven years, Jaussaud will function as the chief technical officer in charge of engineering, product line management, and technical support.

David Mcgee David McGee, the company’s vice president of marketing and strategic development, will now serve as senior vice president of sales and marketing. In addition to the marketing responsibilities he has held for the past five years at Sonnax, McGee will now oversee domestic and export sales, plus customer service and sales administration. He brings more than 37 years of 62

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Rob Gaul and Family

Rob has a wife and five children, and had no medical insurance at the time of his accident. Rob’s longtime friend, Robert “Bob” White from Superior Transmission Parts, has set up a web site to accept donations for Rob. The fund is completely free, so every dime donated will go directly to Rob and his family. If you can help Rob — even just a buck or two — use your smart phone to capture the QR code, or visit the web site: www.youcaring.com/rob_gaul_ fall_seriously_injured_ICUportland_ ore. Every dollar will help Rob and his family in this extremely difficult time. This is the time to reach down deep and do whatever you can; with your help, Rob and his family will make it through the grueling days ahead. Please donate today… and share this link with everyone you know: Let’s get everyone involved!

New Buick Nailhead V8 Oil Pan from PML You may know Rob Gaul from his transmission parts company, Cascade Transmission Parts; or maybe you remember him from his years with G-Cor. Rob’s in serious trouble and needs your help. On August 24th, Rob was climbing down from a tree stand on his property. A misstep… a slip… and he fell more than 20 feet, landing on his back on the rocks below. He lay there for some five hours before anyone found him. Then he was airlifted to a hospital about 150 miles from his home, because he needed a Level 1 trauma center. His prognosis isn’t great: He suffered damage to his spinal cord that left him paralyzed from the chest down. He has severe fractures to his pelvis, five broken ribs, and was just officially classified as a quadriplegic, having only partial use of his arms and hands. He’s currently in physical therapy to help regain some control of his body.

PML has just introduced an aftermarket oil pan for the classic Buick Nailhead V8 engine. The new oil pan is a bolt-on replacement for the stock pan. PML designed this pan with classic straight fins, or ribs, and manufactures them using the sand casting process. The fins add an attractive, custom look and the sand casting creates a heavy duty, high quality part that will provide better heat dissipation. PML's heavy duty sand castings have solid, wide walls for strength and durability and a thick gasket flange that won’t bend when you tighten the bolts. This oil pan preserves the classic feel of the old, stamped-steel, stock cover while adding desirable features GEARS October/November 2013

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for today’s engine builders. PML proudly makes this new oil pan, and all PML pans and covers, in the USA. The new pan is available in natural cast and polish finishes. The natural cast pieces can be easily powder coated or painted if desired. PML also makes valve covers, valley covers, and spark plug wire covers for the Buick Nailhead V8 engine. For more, visit PML’s web site at www.yourcovers.com.

patterns. • A Premium Service Plan is available that offers customers even greater value. For more information on the remanufactured products of Jasper Engines & Transmissions, please call 800-8277455, or visit www.jasperengines.com.

Sonnax Line Pressure Booster Kit for GM 6L45, 6L50, 6L80, 6L90

JASPER Offers GM 6T70E/6T75E FWD and AWD Transmissions

Jasper Engines & Transmissions offers the GM 6T70E/6T75E frontwheel drive and all-wheel drive transmission on exchange. This six-speed CAN (Controller Area Network) electronically controlled automatic transmission is available for the following 2007-2009 applications: • Chevrolet Equinox, Traverse, Malibu • GMC Acadia • Saturn Outlook, Aura • Buick Enclave • Pontiac G6, Torrent “These units have the Transmission Control Module (TCM) mounted inside the transmission on the valve body,” says Brad Boeglin, JASPER new product development team leader. “Testing the transmission and its TCM is done with a state-of-the-art JASPER-engineered CAN control system. Units are then preprogrammed per the vehicle application, eliminating the hassle and expense of the customer having to reprogram these units.” The JASPER 6T70E/6T75E remanufactured transmission is subjected to strict, high-quality processes… • Disassembling, meticulous inspecting, and cleaning of components. • All new and remanufactured parts are carefully inspected for correct tolerances to assure dependability. JASPER’s research and product •  development corrects inherent problems in OEM design. • Dynamometer testing under varying loads simulates vehicle operation. We test for leaks and abnormal noises, and we monitor and record temperatures, pressures, and shift GEARS October/November 2013

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Sonnax has just introduced a new line pressure booster kit for GM 6L45, 6L50, 6L80, and 6L90 transmissions. Sonnax line pressure booster kit 6L80-LB1 delivers a winning combination of a stronger pressure regulator spring and large ratio boost valve designed to work together to provide progressive pressure increases as driving conditions become more demanding. Achieve the best of both worlds with a modest increase at the low end and a high-end pressure that is equal to or greater than that of other aftermarket kit springs. Simple, affordable, drop-in parts require no special tools or reaming to install and offer big performance without a big price tag for servicing the GM 6-speed RWD family. Visit www.sonnax.com for details.

Auto shop Solutions Named One of Inc. Magazine’s FastestGrowing Companies

Autoshop Solutions, the leading web site design and internet marketing agency for independent auto repair shops and the automotive aftermarket, was named one of the fastest-growing companies of 2013 by Inc. Magazine. The agency ranks an impressive 647 out of 5000 companies nationwide and 77 in the Advertising and Marketing category. In North Carolina, the company ranks 14 for the fastest-growing companies overall and 2 in the fastest growing Advertising and Marketing companies

category. This is especially remarkable for an independent niche startup with no venture capital backing. The agency attributes its rapid success to word-of-mouth referrals and high customer retention, underpinned by its award-winning web sites, reputation in the market, and a commitment to outstanding customer service and marketing solutions. “We've come a long way in a short period of time,” said President and Founder Danny Sanchez. “Our growth has enabled us to expand our staff from six full time team members to now over 23. Our success is a direct reflection of the great team we have; I could not be more proud.” Autoshop Solutions is an internet marketing agency dedicated to creating impactful web sites and engaging marketing solutions that drive business for local auto shop owners. Autoshop Solutions takes pride in working only within the automotive aftermarket vertical, and the agency’s executive team has over 30 years of combined experience in the automotive industry. For more information, visit www. autoshopsolutions.com, or follow them on Facebook.com/AutoshopSolutions.

A & Reds Promotes William Sherwood to General Manager

William Sherwood A & Reds is proud to announce the promotion of William Sherwood to general manager. William joined the A & Reds sales team in 1990 and quickly became one of their top sales people. In his new position, William will oversee all operations at the three A & Reds locations: Wichita, KS, Kansas City, MO, and Sioux Falls, SD. Visit A & Reds on line at www. areds.com. 63

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POWER INDUSTRY NEWS

Rostra Hires Rich Smith as New VP of Operations

Rostra Precision Controls, Inc. of Laurinburg NC is pleased to announce that Richard J. Smith has joined the company as its vice president of operations. Rich is responsible for all manufacturing, purchasing, engineering, and quality functions within the company. In addition, Rich will lead Rostra’s continued efforts to bring new products to the marketplace and additional manufacturing lines into its North Carolina facility. Prior to joining Rostra, Rich spent the previous nine years in numerous management positions within Hilite International (a 3i company), including the past two years leading its Asian operations. Rich has also worked at Robert Bosch Corp., Purolator, Inc., and Pall Corporation, among others. Jim Pineau, CEO of Rostra, said, “Rich brings a wealth of experience in the automotive industry and a commitment to continuous improvement that will be instrumental in achieving Rostra’s goals of product line growth, operational efficiency, and continued customer satisfaction.” For more about Rostra Precision Controls automotive accessories and powertrain components, visit them on line at www.rostra.com or www.rostratransmission.com.

Corteco Introduces New Kit for DCT450 Dual Clutch 6-Speed

Corteco is pleased to announce the availability of TransTec® overhaul kit 2603. Kit 2603 covers the MPS6/6speed DCT450 wet dual clutch 6-speed transmission. This transmission is used in various 2007-up Chrysler, Ford, Land Rover, and Volvo models. P/N Description Years B37224 Left and Right Axle Seals 07-Up B34454 Valve Body Cover Gasket 07-Up 3570 Sealing Ring Kit 07-Up B82506 Bonded Shift Piston SM (6 Required) 07-Up B82507 Bonded Shift Piston 64

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LG (2 Required) 07-Up TransTec® kit 2603 is in stock and available for immediate delivery. For more, vist Corteco on line at www.TransTec.com.

Teckpak Introduces Replacement Clip for Electrical Connectors

Plastic parts in a transmission can become hard and brittle because of the high temperatures they have to endure. You try to remove one, and snap! — the clip breaks off. How many times have you needed to replace a wiring harness because the clip to a solenoid breaks? Well, not anymore… Teckpak Fitzall has introduced a new Harness Repair Clip for GM and Ford wiring harnesses. Simply slip a repair clip over the broken plug and it’s fixed. The repair clips are color coded for easy identification: • Blue for FORD (76446UC); fits AX4S/N, AODE, and 4R70W (Softwire). • Red for GM (34446UC); fits FWD/ RWD 4-speeds and Allison 4-and 5-speeds. Each kit comes with five clips per pack. Keep some in your toolbox, because you never know when you’re going to need one. Check out all Fitzall’s new products at www.teckpak-fitzall.com or contact them by phone at 1-800-5272544 or by email at customerservice@ teckpak-fitzall.com.

Goerend Celebrates 35 Years of Custom Torque Converters

This year Dave Goerend is celebrating 35 years in the torque converter rebuilding business; a business based on serious equipment, such as a one-ofa-kind Superflow dyno with WinDyn Software. Whether you choose a single or triple disc, many different stall speeds are available to meet your needs. Dave

and his knowledgeable staff help to take the guesswork out of the ordering process, and they never try to make a sale just for the sake of the sale. They’ll take the time to discuss your needs, to learn how the customer uses the truck, engine modifications, elevation, and driving style or technique. Then they’ll use that information to help you choose the right stall speed for your specific requirements. Add that to their limited lifetime warranty option, and you can’t go wrong with Goerend! Visit www.goerend.com on line to view their extensive testing equipment and check out their information and videos on torque converter theory. Or call 563-778-2719 to discuss their free shipping option on large quantity orders!

Larson Announces Explosion-Proof Fluorescent Light Cart

Larson Electronics announced today the release of a wheeled, cartmounted, explosion-proof, fluorescent light designed for mobility and paint spray booth regulation compliance. The EPLC-24-4L Explosion Proof Fluorescent Light Cart features 8000 lumens light output, a swiveling fixture assembly, and a wheeled aluminum cart for easy maneuverability around the work space. The two-foot long fluorescent light fixture on this light cart is constructed from non-sparking aluminum and features Pyrex tube covers, integral ballast assemblies, aluminum reflectors with high gloss finish, and screw-on end caps for easy relamping. The light fixture carries UL Class 1 and Class 2 ratings and a paint spray booth rating. Anti-static wheels, the aluminum cart, and 50-foot SOOW cord with explosion-proof plug make the fixture versatile and compliant as a hazardous location light fixture.” Larson Electronics provides a full line of industrial grade lighting suitable for any size job or location and can custom tailor lighting to the specific needs of customers. You can learn more at Larsonelectronics.com or contact 1-800-369-6671 (1-903-498-3363 international). GEARS October/November 2013

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375 TURNER INDUSTRIAL WAY ASTON, PA 19014 PHONE (610) 485-9110 FAX (610) 485-9356 www.transmission-specialties.com

With over 30 years of hard work and dedication to excellence, Transmission Specialties has become one of the premiere manufacturers of high performance automatic transmissions, torque converters and related parts in the U.S.A.

Service is where Transmission Specialties prevails, when you call to place an order, you will get a person not an automated phone system to waste your time. We pride ourselves on same day shipping. “We are a company large enough to serve you and yet, we are small enough to know you!”

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Some of our innovative products, such as the “XLS-Spragless” Torque Converters, Pro-Line Powerglide Transmissions, 1:80 “Unbreakable” Gear Sets, Torque Converter Component Kits and Transmission Related Parts are all manufactured in-house. Every product is specified to meet or exceed the toughest industry standards.

HOME OF THE WORLD’S QUICKEST CONVERTER

12/21/05 12:32:13 PM

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

1-800-835-1007

We are a full line supplier with 3 locations to serve you. Automatic, Standard, Transfer Case Parts. New & Used. Our Machine Shop rebuilds pumps, converters… repairs drums… and welds aluminum...

1-800-388-4418 Authorized

Parts Distributor

•Reman Trans 6HP - 5HP - 4HP •BMW - Audi - Jaguar - Range Rover •Valve Bodies & Torque Converters

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

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Mention this ad and receive a 10% discount off any ticket $500-$1000. One time use. Thru nov 2013

Fax: (860) 395-0047

www.zftranspart.com 146B Elm St., Old Saybrook, CT 06475

COMPUTERS

ECM TCM PCM BCM Foreign & Domestic

Computer Module Specialist

Off Vehicle Flash Programming

Engine Control Module (ECM) 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

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It’s a good one!

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Remanufactured Transmissions with Converter IN STOCK

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Equipment Manufacturing Corp.

BMW Mercedes-Benz Audi

$4,995.00

Remanufactured to Perfection

In Stock

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

888-833-9000

www.equipmentmanufacturing.com

Hard parts…need one? Need 100? Can’t find what you’re looking for?

Just Ask!

G-CorAutomotive.com 1.877.888.5160

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67 2/28/12 9:32 PM

10/4/13 11:34 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.

WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED Fix it in less than fifteen minutes with one of our easy to use kits.

TRANSMISSION & TRANSFER CASE PARTS

No machine shop required.

Northland Transmission Inc. www.QUALITYGEAR.com

Phone: 715-458-2617

Fax: 715-458-2611

FOREIGN & DOMESTIC Standard Transmissions Transfer Cases New & Used Parts Rebuilt Units *ONE CALL DOES IT ALL*

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BRIAN OR ALBERT

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NEED QUALITY CONVERTERS?

Equipment Manufacturing Corp.

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HARD PARTS FOR Domestic and Foreign AUTOMATIC TRANSMISSIONS Late and Early models WE HAVE OVER 500,000 PARTS IN STOCK

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CALL 602-971-0477 getithardparts.com WE SHIP UPS DAILY

Overhaul System!

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Call for a free catalog 877-298-5003 www.atiracing.com 6747 Whitestone Road • Baltimore, MD 21207

GEARS October/November 2013

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• Transfer Case Assemblies with Encoder Motors • Reman Transmissions • New & Reman Engines • 3 yr./100,000 Mile Parts & Labor Warranty • Nationwide Delivery • Truckload Pricing Only at

GREEN BAY, WI

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SPRINTER Transmissions Remanufactured Sprinter 722.6 Transmissions

Updated with latest Sonnax performance parts 3-year/100,000-mile warranty

866-464-1871

www.sprintertransmission.net

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SHOPPER CLASSIFIED

October/November 2013

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).

Maxx Fluxx™ Bushings Minimal or No Adjustment Required

Innovative Solenoid Solutions For The Ford 5R55N/W/S

Highest Quality Remanufactured Valve Bodies

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Valve Body Pro

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BUSINESS FOR SALE: Very profitable transmission and auto repair business in the Monterey Bay area of California. Thirty three years at the same location, 4,000 + sq.ft., 9 bays, 7 lifts, large office and build room. Located on the busiest main road in a affluent town just minutes to the beach, mountains with the best weather in the country. The shop has an excellent reputation within the community and other repair shops. The business has experienced over 15% growth for the last 5 years, 1mm gross sales with strong growth in general auto repairs. Tools, hoists and diagnostic equipment is the latest available. The business is valued at close to $500k, asking $250k, some owner financing. SBA loans are far more available! Owner to retire. Please contact us at [email protected]. ATRA Mbr BUSINESS FOR SALE: Canada - Very successful Automatic Transmission shop for sale. Located on the Lake Huron, in southwestern Ontario, Canada. Population over 80,000 with only two transmission shops. Established in 1973, grosses $400,000 annually. Building with 2400 sq. ft., 4 bays, 3rifts. Shop with excellent long standing reputation and established clients. Owner desires to retire. Call for more information (519) 381-0607, email: [email protected]. ATRA Mbr

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BUSINESS FOR SALE: Cape Cod, Massachusetts - Great location, 40 year business for sale, will lease property and all equipment or sell same 4800 sq ft building, 4 bays office and stock room, 4 lifts flywheel machine, etc. Wanting to retire asking 100,000 for business. Contact owner Jack at (508) 922-1731. EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: 2001 T.C.R.S. Auto aligner welder, electronic balancer, leak tester. low volume. Call to make serious offer, pictures and more info available via email: [email protected] or Transmissions Unlimited: (419) 7345345. ATRA Mbr EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: TCRS single gun torque converter welder. Works good with all adapters. For information or photos please contact Marcin at (239) 7078054. ATRA Mbr HELP WANTED: Inside Sales – International clutch plate manufacturer seeking an inside sale position. Good Technical skills and experience in automatic transmission parts is preferred. Send resume to: [email protected]. ATRA Mbr HELP WANTED: Well established transmission shop with multiple locations looking Service Writer, R&R Technician and Trainee/Driver. Contact (818) 823-8685 or (714) 552-6608. ATRA Mbr HELP WANTED: Industry Supplier seeks sales manager for new territory development. Offering Industry competitive salary, Bonus package, and Travel stipends. Sales experience in the Automotive Aftermarket required. Please send resumes to: [email protected] - Subject line: BB# 0813-1. ATRA Mbr HELP WANTED: Experienced rebuilder for busy transmission and gr shop in Red Deer, Alberta Canada. Work with a great team and shop reputation, great wages, health benefits and possible retirement package with long-term commitment. Fax resume to: (403) 347-9644 or call Dave or Scott at (403) 347-9595. ATRA Mbr HELP WANTED: Premium Transmission Shop in western Montana, is looking for a seasonal transmission rebuilder. Great opportunity for a retired transmission rebuilder or ex-shop owner. The position includes free room with all utilities, inter-

For our Canadian Subscribers Some of the 800- toll free numbers listed in the shopper ad section do not work In Canada. Therefore, as a service to you we have listed direct line phone numbers to our shopper advertisers:

A&REDS Transmission Parts

has multiple locations

Eriksson Industries

(860) 388-4418

Transmission Exchange Co.

(503) 284-0768

Autocomp Technologies

(713) 697-5511

Precision of New Hampton Inc

(641) 394-5955

Lory Transmission Parts

(305) 642-4621

Miami Transmission Kits

(305) 885-7355

ART Auto Sport Unlimited (616) 748-5725 Remanufactured Transmissions Weller Auto Trucks

Has many different shop locations

Instaclean

(928) 680-4445

Silver Star Transmission

(405) 330-9300

Trans-Pac Motor Parts

(310) 637-9156

Transfer Case Express

has multiple locations

www.atra.com net and vehicle provided while on the job. The job package also includes a $5000 dollar guided big game hunt, with deer and elk or bear and lion available. Compensation is per unit built, approximately 60 cores, and the time frame should be around 90 days of work. We can work around your schedule. We are a 45 year old established family business that is all about quality work. Candidates need to have the utmost confidence in their ability to produce a quality product. Resume and references required, Must be able to pass a background check. Contact Kurt or Brett for more info at (406) 542-0171 or email [email protected]. HELP WANTED: Looking for an experienced Automatic Transmission Rebuild-

GEARS October/November 2013

10/7/13 7:04 AM

Don't Miss the ATRA SEMINAR Near You!

2014 ATRA TECHNICAL SEMINARS Feb 8 – Houston, TX

Feb 15 – Orlando, FL

Feb 22 – Charlotte, NC

Mar 1 – Dallas, TX

Mar 8 – Boston, MA

Mar 22 – Biloxi, MS

May 10 – Denver, CO

ATRA'S POWERTRAIN EXPO 2014 • Oct 30- Nov 2, 2014

800.428.8489 http://members.atra.com MEMBERS.ATRA.COM

Check http://members.atra.com for more dates and locations to come!

er. Must be capable of rebuilding all makes and models. Must speak English, have own hand tools and must be a team player, willing to work with co-workers to make any necessary improvements. Monday through Friday 8:00am to 5:00pm. Competitive pay and benefits. Contact e-address: [email protected]. ATRA Mbr

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GEARS October/November 2013

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ADVERTISERS Name

Page

ATK and Parts, LLC ............................................................ 41 www.atkits.com ATRA BookStore ................................................................. 57 http://members.atra.com ATRA Membership............................................................... 51 http://members.atra.com ATRA Technical Department ............................................... 49 http://members.atra.com ETE Reman ........................................................................... 5 www.etereman.com EVT Parts ........................................................................ OBC www.evtparts.com Exedy Globalparts Corporation .....................................44, 45 www.exedyusa.com Ford Customer Service Division............................................ 3 www.fordparts.com GEARS Magazine .............................................................. 53 www.gearsmagazine.com H & A Transmissions, Inc. ................................................... 25 www.hnatrans.com Jasper Engines & Transmissions ...................................... IBC www.jasperengines.com LUBEGARD®, A Stellar Automotive Group Company ......... 19 www.lubegard.com Mid States Transmission Parts............................................ 41 http://mstp.net Precision European Inc ....................................................... 71 www.PEIus.com

Name

Page

Precision International ........................................................... 7 www.transmissionkits.com Raybestos Powertrain ......................................................... 13 www.raybestospowertrain.com RMP Powertrain Solutions Inc. ........................................... 11 www.powertrainsolutions.com Schaeffler Group USA Inc. .................................................. 47 www.lukclutch.com Seal Aftermarket Products.........................................9, 27, 43 www.sealaftermarketproducts.com SEMA................................................................................... 39 www.sema.org Slauson Transmission Parts ................................................ 33 www.slauson.com Sonnax Industries.............................................................. IFC www.sonnax.com Superior Transmission Parts ............................................... 17 www.superior-transmission.com Transmission Specialties ...............................................37, 65 www.transmission-specialties.com Transtar Industries, Inc. .................................................30, 31 www.transtar1.com TransTec By CORTECO...................................................... 35 www.transtec.com VBX - ValveBody Xpress, Inc. ............................................. 29 www.valvebodyxpress.com Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc. ........................ 15 www.wittrans.com

2013

CALENDAR ATRA Supplier Members

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Reserve your free table top display for the ATRA 2013 technical seminar series today! Call (805) 604-2018

See ATRA Seminar Schedule on page 71 or at:

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GEARS October/November 2013

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SPECIALS A340 O/D Planet Set

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V6 $125 V8 $175 5/7/13 1:18 PM