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CVR-0516 - V2.indd 2 5/2/16 8:09 AM
CVR-0516 - V2.indd 2 5/2/16 8:09 AM
MAY 2016
• No Reaming Required
• Stops Hydraulic Leaks
• In-Depth Tech Booklet
MAY 2016
PHONE (805) 604-2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contributing Editors:
Steve Bodofsky
Cristoforos Kokkonis
Jim Cathcart
Scott Shotton SPECIAL INTEREST & TECHNICAL
Thom Tschetter
ATRA Technical Staff: 4 Sensing Problems: A Look at Common Sensor Failures
Rolando (Rolly) Alverez Bill Brayton — by Keith Clark
Mike Brown Keith Clark
David Chalker Rob Faucett 12 STREET SMART:
Pete Huscher Mike Souza Circuit Diagnosis Made Easier by Looking at the Big Picture
Shaun Velasquez Jarad Warren — by Mike Brown
Seminars & Convention Mgr Vanessa Velasquez 18 Fuel Trim: Your Crystal Ball
— by Scott Shotton
The views expressed in this publication should not necessarily be interpreted
as the official policy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA).
24 Torque Converter Durability
Publication of product information or any advertising does not imply recommenda- — by Rob Faucett
tion by ATRA.
GEARS , a publication of ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030,
30 Correcting Carrier Float in a 400 or 4L80 Transmission
is published for the betterment of the transmission industry and is distributed — by Cristoforos Kokkonis
ten 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 transmis- 34 WHAT’S WORKING: A New Dynamic for Today’s Transmission Shops
sion industry in the United States, Canada, ATRA Members in Mexico & Europe, — by Lance Wiggins
and related automotive industry firms and individually. Send changes of address
to GEARS in care of ATRA. Subscriptions are available by contacting GEARS in 37 UPDATE: 6L90E: No Line Rise After a Rebuild
care of ATRA.
Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full liability for all content of adver- 38 Alfred State Automotive and ATRA: A Perfect Partnership
tisements printed and also assume full responsibility for any claims arising there- — by ATRA Staff
from against the publisher. The publisher reserves the unqualified right to reject any
advertising copy as it deems appropriate, with or without cause. 44 ATRA Represented at TCRA’s Annual Event
GEARS is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard — by Rodger Bland
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 46 UP YOUR BUSINESS: Manage Things But Lead People
advice or other expert assistance, is required, the services of a competent profes- — by Thom Tschetter
sional person should be sought from a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted
by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers.
50 Self Motivation
GEARS also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. GEARS — by Jim Cathcart
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 52 SHOP PROFILE:
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 Dusty’s Transmissions: Maintaining Reputation Through Transition
submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope. — by Steve Bodofsky
DEPARTMENTS
Oxnard CA 93030
Phone (805) 604-2000
Fax (805) 604-2006
www.gearsmagazine.com
www.atra.com 2 FROM THE CEO:
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GEARS, P.O. Box 16118, Transmission Impossible
North Hollywood, CA 91615-6118 — by Dennis Madden
Publications Mail Agreement No. 40031403 Featured on the cover:
Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: 71 POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS Dusty’s Transmissions
Station A, PO Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5 Page 52
Email: gears@atra.com 75 SHOPPERS AND CLASSIFIED
Photo by: Jessica Doddington
80 LIST OF ADVERTISERS Capturing Essence Photography
Issue #204 Printed in U.S.A. Copyright ATRA 2016
by Dennis Madden
members.atra.com
O
ver the past thirty years I’ve Robert Irvine. In every episode, Irvine accept the evidence, even though it’s
had the pleasure of meeting visits a failing restaurant and attempts obvious to everyone else. Their failure
hundreds of business owners to turn it around in two days, with a is the result of wrong thinking on the
and seeing, firsthand, how they run budget of $10,000. part of the shop’s owner.
their shops. These shops run the Each episode starts out pretty One of the things we discovered
gamut from wildly successful to barely much the same; he interviews the when we began the What’s Working
making ends meet. And sadly, there owners and staff, inspects the kitchen, study back in 2006 was that, in every
are those I’ve met only to learn that, a orders a dozen items off the menu, and instance where a shop was struggling,
few years later, they closed their doors watches the staff work during a busi- there’d be a successful shop right
and went out of business. ness day. This is the assessment period. down the street or just across town. So
I love exploring new business Now, I’m not an expert on running all the excuses that their failure was
ideas and one thing I’ve learned is a restaurant but as I watch the show, because of the economy or the lousy
that good business strategies generally the failings are obvious! Somehow neighborhood just melted away. It
aren’t unique to a particular business the owner of the restaurant just can’t was possible to make money with that
type. That is, a business strategy see the problems; he’s too close to the economy and in that neighborhood;
that works for a convenience store situation and his ego won’t allow him they were just doing it wrong.
will generally work for a gardening to accept the fact that he’s wrong. We’re entering a new phase in this
service or a flower store… or even a In one particular episode, the industry where the greatest challenge
transmission shop. owner of an Italian restaurant claimed is finding qualified technicians. What
Think about the businesses you he served the best pizza in town. we’re discovering is that finding a
frequent and the complaints you’ve Irvine thought differently (and so did good quality, experienced technician
had about some of them. Does the list the restaurant’s employees, BTW). The is all but impossible: Those guys
look something like this? They’re rude, owner stood his ground, so Irvine set have jobs, and they aren’t looking for
their hours are inconvenient, their up a taste test for people on the street. something new.
return policy is unreasonable, their He served three pizzas: one from the Some shop owners will give up
product is lousy, there’s no parking, restaurant in question; one from a and resort to buying remanufactured
no one answers the phone when I call, popular, competing Italian restaurant units, and turn their once-successful
they don’t return my calls, they’re in town; and finally, a frozen pizza transmission repair shops into off-the-
too expensive (for what you get; low from a grocery store. shelf stores. Others will recognize that
value)… and the list goes on. The results were predictable: the they need to make a change. They’ll
None of these issues are exclusive competitor’s restaurant placed 1st, the learn how to develop and train the staff
to any particular business type and frozen pizza 2nd, while the troubled they need, proving that it can be done.
they’re things that cause you — restaurant came in last. You’d think Kinda makes you wonder: If
and others — to take your business that level of unbiased response would there was a show called Transmission
elsewhere. When you’re looking at be enough to convince the owner that Impossible, would we find the same
another business — a restaurant for there was something he needed to resistance from shop’s owners? And
example — you can immediately spot change, but when he watched the video would those problems seem obvious
problems the owner should fix. But and heard the comments, he stood his to people outside the industry? Either
that’s rarely the case when we look at ground: “They’re wrong. My pizza’s way, that’s a show I’d watch!
our own businesses. the best.”
One of my favorite TV shows is We can see the same problem with
Restaurant Impossible, starring Chef failing transmission shops: They won’t
2 GEARS May 2016
A TRANSMISSION FLUID
late model vehicle comes into The TFT sensor is normally a
your shop. The engine is TEMPERATURE (TFT) SENSOR thermistor (a resistor that changes
running sub par, but it’s hard value with respect to temperature).
to determine how bad because the This sensor is normally found Most thermistors are negative
transmission is slipping severely and somewhere in the transmission sump, temperature coefficient (NTC) which
the fluid is black. You check and record where it can measure the average means the higher the temperature, the
any codes from the engine and trans- temperature of the fluid. The sump is a lower the resistance (figure 1). The
mission computers. You even perform stable area to measure temperature graph shows typical temperature-to-
a battery and charging system check. because fluid in the pan is at rest. resistance relationship.
Nothing jumps out at you.
This is where diagnosis
begins. Unfortunately, the en-
gineers that developed these
fine machines never intended
for them to last too far beyond
the warranty, so providing high
mileage programming algorithms
that would allow the computer
systems to adapt infinitely wasn’t
high on their to-do list.
Of course, that’s when the car
comes to your shop. Now it’s up to
you to decipher what “good” is
supposed to look like, mechanically,
electrically, and hydraulically. This
is the only way you can figure out
what is wrong, and it starts with
monitoring sensors.
First, let’s look at some
sensors that come into play on the Figure 1: This is the typical temperature to resistance relation chart and graph that you can
use to check for proper TFT sensor response.
transmission side.
4 GEARS May 2016
SPEED SENSORS
Speed sensors take on differ-
ent tasks in different transmissions.
Some give input and output speed
signals that are shared with other
modules, while others monitor
geartrain speed for shift timing
and ratio calculations.
There are generally two
different types of sensors used:
permanent magnet and Hall
Effect. A permanent magnet
sensor will generate an AC signal
that will increase in magnitude
and frequency as RPM increases Figure 4: Represents a typical hall-effect sensor wave form. The wave form amplitude stays
constant, but the frequency increases with reluctor speed.
(Figure 3 & 4).
6 GEARS May 2016
Version 5.0
2015
Digital Catalog
For quicker access & more info, including
our Tranny Guide™, ask for our CD
Catalog. With clickable links to take you
from index, to complete photo layout, to
individual part descriptions instantly!
800-940-0197
www.wittrans.com
WIT May2016.indd 2 5/2/16 8:45 AM
Sensing Problems: A Look at Common Sensor Failures
MANIFOLD ABSOLUTE
PRESSURE (MAP) SENSOR
This is a load sensor like the
MAF sensor. It measures engine Figure 7: This is a graph of a typical MAP sensor.
load based on manifold vacuum to
produce a voltage signal, which tool PID, then slowly adding vacuum,
represents how hard the engine from 0 to 20 in-Hg.
is working. Next, use a vacuum tee with a
This sensor acts more like a gauge to monitor the vacuum from the
vacuum modulator. Under low load engine manifold to the sensor. With
(high vacuum), such as idle or cruise, the engine running, you can perform a
the sensor will read a low voltage. A stall test and observe the sensor signal
high load (low vacuum) will produce a response relative to the vacuum
high voltage signal. The voltage range observed on the gauge.
is similar to a throttle position sensor: Other sensors that are worthy of
from about 0.5 to 4.5 volts. mention are the BARO sensor, TPS,
If this sensor isn’t functioning and turbo pressure sensors. Faulty
correctly, it can cause all the same readings in these sensors can cause
shift issues as the MAF sensor. shift scheduling and shift quality
Because of the way this sensor issues. With your scan tool and
produces its signal, it’s more information on good values you should
susceptible to vehicle wear and aging. be able to find a problem sensor
The vacuum signal can also become reading that’s the source of all of
compromised by debris at the vacuum your issues.
port. If there’s a hose leading to the Finally, if there are any codes in
sensor, it can crack and leak or any modules, correct them and check
become restricted. to see if that solves your problems.
Finally, if the engine is too worn, More and more, issues with other
such as worn piston rings, worn valve modules are creating driveability and
seats, poor timing, etc., it may not be shift problems.
able to produce a low load signal. So, if you are sensing problems,
Chrysler and Jeeps with 4- and check your sensors. You may be
6-cylinder engines are notorious for surprised what may actually be causing
this when they have high mileage. your problem.
Testing this sensor for proper
operation is easy with a handheld
vacuum pump. With the key on, engine
off, and the vacuum pump hose
connected to the sensor, check the
sensor sweep by monitoring the scan
10 GEARS May 2016
CIRCUIT
DIAGNOSIS by Mike Brown
members.atra.com
Made Easier by
Looking at the Big Picture
Figure 3
We know the problem isn’t the With the redundant ground With the ground supplied there, the
5-volt reference circuit: the code connected, the PIDs for the A/C PIDs continued to operate normally, so
condition is for a signal circuit fault. pressure sensor went from 4.88 to the wire from the PCM to splice S108
We also know it probably isn’t 1.29 volts. That proves that the sensor must be good. That means the fault has
the signal circuits because each sensor ground is faulty, but what about the to be in the PCM or the connector at
has its own signal circuit; that would other sensors? terminal 25.
mean there’d have to be four separate Since all four sensors share the There were no problems apparent
problems that occurred at the same same ground circuit, connecting a on connector C2 — there was no
time. Possible, but unlikely. redundant ground to one connects it corrosion and none of the pins were
Without performing a single test to all four sensors. With the redundant spread. So the technician replaced the
it was clear that only an open, shared ground connected, the fuel tank PCM. With the new PCM installed,
sensor ground could cause all of pressure sensor, fuel level sensor, and all sensors were reading correctly and
these faults at the same time. The the secondary fuel level sensor all there were no codes stored.
diagram shows that these sensors share began reading correctly. IMPORTANT — Never use a
a ground. The ground is normally supplied chassis ground as a permanent repair
An easy test is to add a redundant by the PCM, so the lost ground had to for a faulty sensor ground circuit.
ground and see if the sensors start be somewhere between splice S108 and Sensor grounds aren’t the same as the
reading correctly. The easiest sensor to the PCM, including the internal PCM chassis ground, and using the chassis
reach is the A/C pressure sensor, which sensor ground circuits. ground for the sensors can cause other
is accessible from underneath; it’s It’s hard to test for internal PCM problems in the system.
mounted in the high pressure line near faults directly, but it’s easy to diagnose Taking a little time to look at a
the lower left corner of the condenser. by elimination. So the easiest test wiring diagram and examine the big
Tie in a redundant ground to the gray is to remove the redundant ground picture, we were able identify what
wire at terminal B at the A/C pressure from the A/C sensor and tie it in at the sensors had in common, saving a
sensor and connect it to a good chassis the PCM connector C2 terminal 25 lot of diagnostic effort. That’s not just
ground (figure 2, page 14). (figure 3). smart… that’s street smart!
BALL
THE DRIVEABILITY GUYS
Figure 1
Figure 2: Total Fuel Trim is Almost Identical at Idle and at Elevated RPM
The short term number is always learned a value of +2%. Short term fuel PCM is adding fuel. But the LTFT only
changing; it’s normal for short term trim is in light blue, and is bouncing indicates the vehicle is running well.
fuel trim to bounce around. With a lean between about +3% to –2%; this is STFT and LTFT help determine
mixture, the STFT would be moving perfectly normal. whether the issue is recent or not, but
positive, or adding fuel, to compensate When dealing with a driveability total fuel trim is what you should be
for the lean condition. problem, you’ll need to observe both most concerned with during diagnosis.
Long term fuel trim, or LTFT, is short term and long term fuel trim There are some arguments about what a
the correction the PCM learns over values. Faults that only happen for a good total fuel trim number should be,
time and stores in keep-alive memory. little while may not give the LTFT time but the general industry standards are
For example, a vehicle that’s running to correct, so they won’t show up in the total fuel trim of ±10% are acceptable
rich will have negative STFT numbers LTFT numbers. while ±5% would be ideal.
because the PCM will be trying to On the other side of the coin, Take these values with a grain of
correct for the rich mixture by reducing a problem that’s been occurring for salt: A 1998 Ford Taurus with 247,000
fuel delivery below the factory a while may show up in the LTFT miles and total trim numbers of –12%
programming. numbers while the STFT numbers look might be acceptable due to wear and
When the PCM sees that it’s been normal. We are missing one piece: total tear, while a 2014 Toyota Camry with
making negative corrections for a period fuel trim. 24,000 miles and the same total fuel
of time, it “learns” the corrections that trim might indicate a problem. The
it’s been making and adjusts the long Total Fuel Trim previous example would have been
term fuel trim. When diagnosing fuel delivery, operating in the 0% to +5% range,
The LTFT value is stored in the you can’t just look at STFT or LTFT, which is acceptable.
PCM. The PCM will refer to it as if it because individually they don’t provide
were one of its initially programmed an accurate representation of what fuel Loop Status
parameters. These learned values are corrections are being made. Another important aspect of PCM
stored in the keep-alive memory. The actual fuel correction that the operation, and fuel trim diagnostics for
Disconnecting the battery can PCM is making is the sum of both that matter, is loop status. There are
erase these values. This is one of the STFT and LTFT. This total fuel trim multiple loop modes in which a PCM
reasons why a vehicle may run poorly number is most likely not displayed can operate, but most fit into two main
for a while after battery replacement or on the scan tool. It’s your job to do the categories: open loop and closed loop.
if the battery goes dead. math. To keep things simple, look at it
Figure 1 shows the fuel trim values For example, if a vehicle has this way: In open loop the PCM ignores
from a vehicle that’s operating correctly +23% STFT and +2% LTFT, the total the oxygen sensor’s input; in closed
with no faults. The engine RPM is correction would be +25%. In this loop the PCM pays attention to the
in red and the vehicle is at idle. The case, looking at STFT alone would oxygen sensor’s input.
long term fuel trim is in green and has indicate a lean condition because the
20 GEARS May 2016
What
direction
would you
take with
the fuel trim
values in
figure 3?
Figure 3
Since fuel trim numbers are based under different conditions is the key to Another example would be where
on the input from the oxygen sensors, successful fuel trim diagnostics. the fuel trim is drastically different from
you can only use fuel trim numbers for In figure 2, total fuel trim is almost bank to bank. This could indicate valve
diagnosis while the vehicle is in closed identical at idle and at elevated RPM. timing issues on one bank, restricted
loop. In addition, the oxygen sensors Total fuel trim correction at idle is 25% exhaust on one bank, or even a bad
have to be operating correctly or your while total fuel trim correction off idle oxygen sensor on one bank. Regardless
fuel trim numbers will be incorrect. is 24%. This vehicle obviously has a of the actual cause, the fuel trim values
fault, but it’s only one example of how provide diagnostic direction.
Conditions fuel trim behaves when a problem is What direction would you take
Fuel trim numbers change with present. with the fuel trim values in figure 3?
engine operating conditions if there’s For the sake of full disclosure, this
a fault. When operating normally, the Additional vehicle is a 2004 GMC Yukon with
engine would still adhere to the ±5% Thoughts a 5.3 liter, single camshaft engine,
and ±10% rule no matter how you drive Another thing to consider while and two catalytic converters. Hopefully
the vehicle. analyzing fuel trim is a question you we’ve laid the fuel trim groundwork
That’s why it’s important to pay need to ask yourself: Whole engine or necessary for you to start using this data
attention to operating conditions when half engine? In the case of a multiple for diagnosis.
checking fuel trim values. A lean bank engine, which includes most Remember, fuel trim is the “crystal
condition will cause positive fuel trim V-type and some 4-cylinder engines, ball” that allows you to see what the
numbers because the PCM has to add bank 1 and bank 2 have separate fuel PCM is trying to do. Next month we’ll
fuel to correct the fuel deficiency. But trim values. A general bank-to-bank apply these principles to a structured
these corrections may only be necessary comparison can eliminate a lot of method for diagnosing lean codes…
at idle; not at cruising speed. diagnostic tests. and we’ll see what the fault with the
Conversely, a problem that’s For example, if a vehicle has poor Yukon actually is.
setting a lean code could present itself fuel trim values that are similar bank to
in the opposite manner: Fuel trim could bank, then the issue would be related
be acceptable at idle or low RPM and to the whole engine. Possible causes
get more positive as RPM and engine might include a MAF sensor or fuel
load increase. Observing both the STFT pump. Both of these items affect the
and LTFT while operating the vehicle entire engine.
D
urability and performance have
always been a concern for anyone
building transmissions. The same
can be said for torque converter rebuild-
ers. Though there are many aftermarket
modifications available, and some in
house modifications, various little
steps in the rebuilding process can
make or break your rebuild.
When it comes to doing it
right, it’s always best to ask some-
one who’s successful in the field.
My friend, Dave Hammond,
owner and operator of Atlantic
Torque Converters, was kind
enough to show me what doing
it right looks like.
First, let’s look at a few
different types of converter
clutches (Figures 1a - 1d):
The standard type clutch is
bonded to the clutch housing
and is compressed against the
converter cover. The clutch pack
used here is from a Mercedes; it
uses a piston, clutches, and a snap
ring, just like clutch packs in most
transmissions.
The captive clutch uses a pressure
plate and a clutch that is compressed
between the cover and pressure plate.
The triple disc — the most commonly
requested upgrade for Dodge turbo diesels
— uses a plate with a clutch on both sides
and a plate with a clutch on one side and a
steel surface on the other, compressed between
a pressure plate and the cover.
Setting the
proper endplay
is as critical
in the torque
converter as
it is in the
transmission.
There are many different
types of clutch materials available,
though it’s important to match the
clutch material to the application
and fluid. The bonding process is
equally important: The standard Figure 2
process is to apply glue to the
piston plate and the clutch, then
compress and heat these com-
ponents to 400ºF (205ºC) for a
specific amount of time. Dave
preheats the piston plate before
beginning the bonding process to
improve the plate and clutch bond.
Setting the proper endplay is
as critical in the torque converter
as it is in the transmission. Most
of the time you adjust endplay
with shims. But the TMBX
bearing support lip (Figure 2) on
the stator support is too short for
shims. Using shims can allow the
bearings to move off the support
and damage the converter. On
these units, the best method for
adjusting endplay is to use differ-
ent thickness bearings on either
side of the stator.
Some manufacturers who use
shims recommend that suppliers
not store their converters on their
sides to prevent the bearings from
moving out of place.
Hondas have a single race
bearing riding against a surface on
the impeller side of the converter.
This configuration generates a
lot of heat. When this surface
becomes damaged or softens from
excessive heat, the impeller won’t
be reusable; you’ll need to replace
the impeller hub or the entire
impeller. By machining the sta-
tor cap (Figure 3), and installing
a bearing with two races, you
can save money and increase the
durability of the converter. Figure 3
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Figure 6
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Transmission
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AND TOTAL CAR CARE
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Figure 3 Figure 4
Notice the excess reaction carrier This is increasingly common when the To maintain maximum per-
wobble when the housing is allowed unit is equipped with a “band on in low formance, durability, and fuel
to rest on the output carrier. Due to manual valve body,” or a transmission economy, the reaction carrier should be
its floating design, GM never brake with fixed line pressure. positioned along its horizontal plane
developed procedures for checks and When the reaction carrier is pulled as close as possible to its thrust surface
adjustments. off center, it puts the planetary gearset at the rear of the center support,
Even though the reaction carrier in a partial bind until the rear band separated only by an oil film and
floats, the rear thrust surface encounters apply pressure releases all the way. It a few thousandths of an inch for
loading. The wear on the bronze thrust does this by knocking the planetary thermal expansion.
washers behind the gear is the result gearset components out of position, To prevent reaction carrier float, you
of pinion gear thrust loading, which which creates resistance. This reduces need to eliminate most of the reaction
drives the reaction carrier into the operating efficiency when the band carrier endplay. To do this, replace the
rear thrust washer at the front of the is applied in manual low, and dulls OEM thrust washer assembly with a
output carrier. the transmission gearset reaction to thicker thrust bearing assembly. This
Even though the front gearset is transmission brake exhaust in drag race pins the reaction carrier between its
only active in first and reverse, the applications. front and rear thrust surfaces, reducing
reaction carrier generates a tremendous These problems are compounded float and radial runout. The bearing
amount of rearward thrust when active, if the silencer ring is omitted during of choice is the late model TH350
which is met with an equal amount of TH400 builds and in the 4L80E where rear pump thrust bearing and selective
forward thrust from the output carrier. it’s been eliminated. What happens is shims.
This thrust may be enough to destroy that excessive float allows radial runout When fitting the thrust bearing
the thrust washer, especially in vehicles in the reaction carrier, which damages assembly, you’ll need to machine a
with low final drive ratios and tall tires. the reaction carrier bushing and its pocket to a depth of 0.075”, an inside
That’s why it’s a good idea to insulate load bearing journal. It also creates diameter of 2.125” and outside diameter
the carriers from one another with a increased friction between the rear band of 2.875” (figures 3 and 4).
thrust bearing at this location… but and reaction carrier band surface, and
there are other things to look at. skews the one-way clutch rollers. Adjusting Reaction
Because of permissible float, the While overrunning in second and Carrier Endplay
rear band can act on the reaction carrier third gears — and in overdrive in Begin setting reaction carrier
anywhere along its horizontal plane. the 4L80E transmission — excess endplay by standing the completely
With limited support toward the rear, radial runout in the reaction carrier and assembled rear section and center
the reaction carrier can easily be pulled improper position of the roller elements support up on the bench. For now, the
off-center and out of engagement with can reduce fuel economy by increasing assembly should only include the thrust
its load bearing journal in manual low. operational spin loss percentages. bearing; no selective shims.
by Lance Wiggins
members.atra.com
O
ver the years I’ve developed a our mandate to help transmission There just aren’t enough qualified
specific reputation with GEARS shops remain profitable. And it’s not technicians available.
readers; you see my byline and easy to be profitable in transmission Sure, there are good technicians
you figure I’m going to be talking repair without qualified technicians. out there; some of the best ever. But
about tech. Not all that surprising; Helping shops find qualified tech- they aren’t looking for work. Those
after all, that’s a big part of my job nicians has become such an important qualified technicians are working for
with ATRA and GEARS. issue to ATRA’s Members that it’s other shops, and they’re very happy
But a lot of my time is spent become the focus of this year’s What’s where they are, thank you. They have
talking to shop owners. Sure, they Working program. very little interest in moving to a
want to know that we’re providing Being in tech, naturally my first new shop.
great tech, but, as we’re talking, thought is that we need to provide That realization led to a startling
invariably the conversation gets more training. We need more articles, conclusion: If there are no qualified,
around to something along these lines: more bulletins, more seminars, more experienced technician’s available,
“I can’t find qualified technicians webinars… more… more. maybe it’s time to rethink who you’re
for my shop. What is ATRA doing It’s a reasonable start, and it’s looking for to add to your staff.
about that?” something we have to continue to Maybe the person you should be
It’s a fair question. After all, build on, but it doesn’t address the looking is a really good fit to begin
ATRA’s entire existence is based on primary problem facing our industry: the process of “grown your own”;
RostraTRANSMISSION
one in which you take a leadership roll a chance and treat him right, chances procedures, and articles that shows
in educating your employees. Sure, it are he’ll not only grow into a terrific how to get the most out of a road test.
means an investment in terms of both tech; he’ll also be grateful for your We’ve even provided a series of
time and money, but it does have an investment and will be with you for a articles on measuring techniques using
advantage over hiring experienced long time. a micrometer or caliper, available as
help: You get to mold your employees So the first part of the solution — individual articles or as a standalone
in the image you want, instead of let’s take a page from Dennis and call training program. Basically, if there’s
working your business model around it the “Escape from Gilligan’s Island” something you need to know about
the technicians you’ve hired. — is to change your concept of whom working on today’s cars and light
Let’s take a look at two potential you’re looking for. But that leaves you trucks, we probably covered it in
employees: We’ll call them Al and Bob with the chore of training this new detail, and it’s all right there for you to
(A and B, get it?) technician. use to help train your new technicians.
Al is an experienced technician. Which takes us into the second Not that we’re sitting back on our
He’s very knowledgeable and has part of the equation: What is ATRA laurels: There’s still a lot of work to
many years of experience. He also has doing to help? do, and we’re ready for the challenge.
a bit of an attitude. He can afford to; The truth is, ATRA’s been In the coming months and years,
he knows he can get a job any time he providing assistance in training new expect to see more articles, training
wants, which means he can be more technicians since it was first incor- programs, seminars, and webinars
demanding and less pliable than you porated over 60 years ago. We have targeted toward helping you “grow
might like. But he can do the job right a whole series of books and training your own” technician.
out of the gate. programs, covering the principles of And don’t forget ATRA’s certi-
Bob is a young guy, pretty much hydraulics and electricity. We have fication program: Sure, it’s a terrific
fresh out of tech school. He’s worked books on diagnostic strategy, including way to demonstrate to your customers
a few jobs in auto repair, mostly the latest computer systems and that your technicians have the right
changing oil and mounting tires; not transmissions that haven’t even made stuff, but they’re also a great way of
much else. But he has a lot of book their way to your bays yet. evaluating your technicians, to see
smarts, boundless energy, and a ter- And let’s not forget our wealth of where they’re doing well… and where
rific attitude. He wants to learn… articles in GEARS — and not just the they need more work. There’s no
and grow. And he’s willing to adjust ones in this month’s magazine. For shame in failing the test if you use it to
to your business model, whatever years we’ve been delivering some of refocus your training.
that involves. the most insightful technical training So what is ATRA doing to
Which one would you think is the available anywhere in the world, and help you find the technicians you
better hire? Well, if you waited too it’s all right at your fingertips on the need? First we’re going to help you
long and were desperate, Al might be ATRA Members web site. reevaluate who you’re looking for.
your only choice. You have to have a Want your new hire to learn Then we’re going to help you provide
qualified technician if you’re going to about basic computer diagnosis? your new hires with the training they
keep running your shop, so you may We’ve covered it. Trying to help need to step up and take you through
be forced to build your new business him understand the latest computer the coming years… and beyond.
model around Al’s attitude. networks? It’s there. Need to provide It’s a daunting task, but at ATRA,
But if you thought ahead and a clearer picture of voltage drop tests it’s what we do… and what we’ll
started looking for someone before or how to use a digital oscilloscope to continue to do in the years to come.
the situation became desperate, diagnose a circuit? Yeah, we’ve got
there’s little doubt that Bob would be that, too.
a smarter move. He has the tools to There’s a whole series of articles
grow, and you have the environment covering hydraulic principles, articles
for him to learn. And, if you give him that explain gear ratios and rebuilding
36 GEARS May 2016
Auto student Cody Bartz runs a 41TE on the dyno before installation. Instructor Ronan makes a point during an ATRA webinar.
come to realize the importance of Students drive trucks, and 4R100s, 47 author for the Today’s Technician
learning from the experience of and 48RE units, 4L60Es, Allisons, and series Manual Transmission and
other technicians and the experts at other heavy-duty transmissions are Transaxles textbook, and is a part-time
ATRA. The live work environment of a staple of the overhaul and upgrade rebuilder for a busy transmission shop
the Alfred program means that each portion of the lab section of the course. in the area (owned by one of his past
repair has to be right, and information The department works with a variety students!)
provided on the Tech Repair Center of vendors including Transtar, an Students learn best when they’re
helps jobs go out the door. industry partner for over thirty years. having fun, and Alfred State makes
Mistakes will be made, especially The course also covers other sure they do. The department is always
when students are performing tasks driveline components: Differential, involved in a variety of after-school
that are outside of their experiences. transfer case, manual transmission, projects that go beyond the normal
Bulletins on the web site often help and driveshaft diagnosis and repair course material, but provide experi-
students and instructors alike find compliment the variety of lab projects ences that can be as valuable as the
issues that have occurred during that are completed every day. Ronan technical content.
an overhaul or a diagnostic routine. says that, even though his students The Green Grand Prix fuel
“I tell my class that I want to see often get jobs because they aren’t economy event, held annually at
something expensive broken before afraid of automatics, one of their Watkins Glen Raceway, has provided
lunch, because if you’re just practicing favorite mentors is Mike Weinberg, a great experience for Alfred students
or sitting around, nothing is going from Rockland Standard Gear! for many years. They field a number of
to break.” Alfred State automotive relies on cars, and have achieved over 113 MPG
The Alfred auto department a large faculty in the effort to train in a highly modified Honda Insight.
provides an infrastructure designed to students for the world of work. The Thirteen students, with faculty,
help students become well prepared program is certified by NATEF and took another Insight to the Bonneville
for a career in automotive technology. is a member of other national consor- Salt Flats in an attempt to break a class
The department has six separate tiums. Faculty members must have record. That car will return in August
facilities to accommodate freshmen at least seven years experience in the with a lot more engine to reach for the
and senior students. field before joining the staff, and are 200 MPH barrier. Students competed
The senior automotive building, encouraged to participate in national in the 2015 Great Race from St. Louis
which contains the transmission class, organizations in their field. to Santa Monica with a 1953 Dodge
has a fully stocked, independently op- Instructor Ronan has served for Power Wagon they rebuilt after it
erated parts store that stocks a strong over a dozen years as an expert on the spent years of service in the college
inventory of popular components. An ASE A1 Automatic Transmissions/ maintenance fleet.
Axiline 9700 dyno provides a valuable Transaxles and A2 Manual Drive Other events demonstrate the
teaching tool and also gives students Train and Axles tests. He most civic responsibility that the college
confidence before they install a unit. recently assisted with the composite encourages. Participation in the Elk
The live work nature of the vehicle design for the L1 Advanced Charity Run and the Fireball Run
program means that certain makes Engine Performance Specialist provide recent examples. All of the
and models often come in for repair. Certification test. He’s the revision after-school projects are self-funded
with a lot of hard work and fundrais- look to new graduates to fill openings support not only for its Members,
ing activities. in their shops. but for the industry in general. My
A strong automotive program like None of this would be possible students are fortunate to have ATRA
Alfred State’s relies on the success without industry support, and ATRA as a key resource in getting them
of its students to get the word out. has proven the perfect partner to this through a tough course and preparing
Placement statistics indicate that 99% institution and many others for years. them for a successful career in the best
of Alfred students find employment Instructor Ronan has this to say. business in the world: fixing cars!”
following graduation. Alumni in turn “ATRA has a long history of providing
6
T T OP..
1
E
G R SH
YOU
0
2 ical
c h
e inan r
T em S
LOCATIONS
May 7 - Denver, CO
May 21 - Des Moines, IA
May 28 - Vancouver, BC
June 4 - Tulsa, OK SCHEDULE FEES
August 6 - San Antonio, TX Registration ......7am-8am All Pricing in US Funds
ATRA Members ..........$165
Seminar......................8am*
August 13 - Albuquerque, NM Lunch .............12pm-1pm Non-Members ............$210
August 20 - Portland, OR Every 4th person........FREE
*Vancouver Seminar
Begins at 9am On-site registration.....$240
August 27 - Anaheim, CA
September 10 - Chicago, IL
September 17 - Billings, MT
HOW TO REGISTER
September 24 - Atlanta, GA Phone toll-free: (800) 428-8489
October 1 - Newark, NJ Fax your payment & registration
(805) 988-6761
information to:
November 5 - Baltimore, MD
Online: http:// members.atra.com
Mail your payment to:
ATRA Seminar Registration
2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030
CHRYSLER IMPORTS
• Dodge Vehicles - F Dog Clutch Hydraulic Apply • U660E • Isuzu NPR
- Mistaken TCC Shudder Circuit - Pressure Switches Eliminated - PRNDL Lights Dim
• Dodge/Jeep - F Dog Clutch Release Circuit - TCC Slip or No Movement • A750
2005-06 Vehicles - Valve Body to Case Pipe • U660E/760E - No Forward in D4, D3 & D1 Will
- Codes P0714 and/or P0218 Locations - Forward/Direct Drum Move in D2
• 62TE - Air Check Locations Interchange • A960E/750E/AB60E
- TCC and Shift Chatter After - Solenoid Identification, • U660E Comparison
Rebuild Park-By-Cable - Other Internal Problems - Internal Wire Harness
- Solenoid Identification, - No Reverse After Rebuild - Temperature Sensors
• 68RFE
Park-By-Wire - 1-2 Slide After Rebuild
- Setting Overdrive Pressure • A960E/750E/AB60E
- Disassembly/Assembly Tips • ZF6HP26
Switch Rationally Code P0871 - Speed Sensors
- Snap Ring Update - P0783 Gear Load 3-4 4-3
- Clunk From Reverse to Park - Speed Sensor Malfunction/TCC
TSB 21-008-15 REV B - Firm 2-3 Shift P0782 Gear Load
• Dodge AS68RC Information
- Range Sensor Connector Swap
• 845RE 2-3 3-2 AA80/81E
- Application Chart • Ford 6R60/ZF6HP26
• 722.6 - Introduction
- Fluid Check Procedure
- Vibration Coming to a Stop Comparison - Component ID & Apply Chart
- Solenoid Identification
• 948TE - All Vehicles - Solenoid ID & Apply Chart
- Valve Body Breakdown
- Introduction - Valve Body Removal - Valve Body Removal
- Valve Body Check Valves
- Clutch Apply Chart • ZFHP19A VW - Valve Identification
- Valve Body Filters
- Dog Clutch Function - Pinion Removal - Case Air Checks
- Valve Body Solenoid Dampers
- A Dog Clutch Function - Gear Whine After Rebuild - Low One Way Clutch Rotation
- Check Ball Locations
- A Dog Clutch Hydraulic Apply • F4A51 • Subaru Lineartronic
- Separator Plate Information
Circuit - Hard Bind Going Into 4th Gear - Primary Pulley Disassembly
- Upper Valve Body Breakdown
- A Dog Clutch Hydraulic Release • Isuzu 4L30E - Secondary Pulley Disassembly
- Lower Valve Body Breakdown
Circuit - No Forward in D4, D3 & D1 Will - Secondary Pulley Assembly
- Valve Identification and Spring
- F Dog Clutch Function Measurements Move in D2
by Thom Tschetter
You probably experience a similar • Leaders are people oriented. A great starting point is to get
dilemma as that of the presidential • Leaders bring out the best in others. comfortable with the differences and
candidates. The leader in you wants to • Leaders influence, inspire, and mo- similarities of the two roles. Try to
transform the underperforming aspects tivate others to achieve the organi- be aware of which hat you’re wearing
of your business into something zation’s mission. as much of the time as possible and
significantly better. But the manager in Some leaders are anointed, ap- act accordingly. Believe it or not, to
you wants to maintain your company’s pointed, or elected… but with rare ex- avoid confusion when speaking to an
positive attributes and resists messing ception, great leaders just show up and employee, I often announced what
with the status quo. are recognized as leaders. They earn I was doing by saying, “Okay, just to
Just like the candidates, you’re the role. be clear, right now I’m putting on my
passionate about where you want to Management is fundamentally (leader’s / manager’s) hat.” It’s simple,
take the company, but you experience task, product, and process orient- but it does help communicate more
pushback from your constituents: ed. Managers focus on “how”: How effectively.
employees, customers, suppliers, can the organization control, utilize, At this year’s Powertrain Expo,
competitors, and other circumstantial and maximize the resources of the I’ll present a workshop titled “Pea
challengers. To make matters worse, organization effectively to make sure Soup: The Cure for Entrepreneurial
it’s almost like you have a split the goal is achieved? Here are some Split Personality Disorder.” I’ve com-
personality, because you’re experienc- of the traits and characteristics that are piled some practical tools to conquer
ing internal conflict as both leader and often attributed to managers: the two-hat challenge and help you
manager. You essentially wear two • Managers organize human and take your company exactly where
hats: a leader’s hat and a manager’s hat. physical resources within prescribed you want it to go. Learn the secrets
I’ve found that being more parameters to carry out the leader’s to managing things and leading
effective in either role begins with vision and mission. people. I hope to see you in October at
knowing which hat you’re wearing • Managers tend to enforce adherence Powertrain Expo 2016.
at any particular time. Let’s start by to established policies and
defining the functions and attributes procedures.
associated with each role. • Managers operate with power and
While the terms leadership authority.
and management are often used • Managers think in terms of
interchangeably, they are distinctively performance against standards and Share Your Stories
different. So let’s consider the question control by measuring results. If you’ve personally experienced a
I asked earlier: “Is management a • Managers strive to maintain the weird or unusual customer dispute and
function of leadership, or is leadership status quo or to make incremental wouldn’t mind sharing it to help your
a function of management?” The improvements that don’t industry, please contact me. You just tell
answer is sometimes neither and significantly alter the status quo. me the story and I’ll do all the heavy
sometimes both. • While some managers might also be lifting to write it.
There are countless definitions for good leaders, leadership skills aren’t We can make it an article about
leadership. While the definitions vary, essential to be a good manager. you, or you may remain anonymous. The
there are certain traits that repeatedly • Innovativeness and creativity aren’t main thing is we want to share stories
appear. typical or essential for being an that will help others avoid similar prob-
• Leaders create and provide the effective manager. lems. Call me at 480-773-3131 or email
vision and mission for their • As opposed to the guiding style me at coachthom@gmail.com.
organizations. typically identified with leadership, About the Author
• Leaders determine the direction and managers tend to direct their team Thom Tschetter has served our
rate of travel toward a goal. members. industry for nearly four decades as a
• Leaders focus on “what” and Unfortunately, in the real world, management and sales educator. He
“why,” but delegate the “how” to the distinction between leadership and owned a chain of award-winning trans-
management. management becomes blurred. This is mission centers in Washington State for
• Leaders are committed to the vision especially the case in small businesses over 25 years.
as well as to their organizations and like auto repair shops, because of the He calls on over 20 years of
people. “two-hat challenge.” The result is often experience as a certified arbitrator for
• Leaders are consistent, persis- the same as in the political process topics for this feature column.
tent, and resilient when facing we looked at earlier: The business Thom is always eager to help
adversity or being challenged by owner sacrifices his vision for the members of our industry and continues
circumstances. company and settles for some watered to be proactive in pursuing ways to
• Leadership stems from influence… down version by reverting to his role improve your business and your life.
not from authority or power. as manager.
INDUSTRY NEWS
New products and services
in the transmission industry.
ONLINE
BUYER’S GUIDE
Trusted suppliers to help you
find the right transmission part.
G
EARS BLOG
Industry-specific articles,
hot topics, events and more.
FIX-IT FORUM
Get industry advice and
opinions from transmission
shop owners, managers
and certified professionals.
G
EARS ARCHIVE
An archived collection of
printed transmission topics.
W
ere you in the armed services?
Which branch? I was in the
Army National Guard and the
Army Reserves, six years total. I trained
at Ft. Polk, Louisiana; Ft. Sill, Oklahoma;
Ft. Sam Houston, Texas; and Camp
Robinson, Arkansas. At first I was a medic
and hospital corpsman and then later a
lieutenant in an infantry training company.
But regardless of your rank or position
in the armed services, everyone starts their
day with the sound of Reveille. This name
comes from the French words for “wake
up!” There are no official lyrics to the tune,
but here’s a popular version:
You've got to get up
You've got to get up
You've got to get up this morning
You've got to get up
You've got to get up
Get up with the bugler's call
The major told the captain
The captain told the sergeant
The sergeant told the bugler
The bugler told them all
Dusty’s
Transmissions:
Maintaining Reputation
Through Transition
by Steve Bodofsky
members.atra.com
O
ne of the most important issues
facing the U.S. is its graying
population. We’re getting older
every day, and nowhere is this more
evident than with today’s transmission
shop owners. When we first began the
What’s Working program, the average
age of the shop owners polled was 52…
and that was about six years ago.
This is why so many shop owners
are taking a greater interest in their exit
strategy. It’s a big deal because, as a
shop owner, you can’t simply drop your
tools and walk away: You have years of
reputation-building and investment to
consider, not to mention the employees
who’ve come to depend on your shop
for their livelihood. Three generations strong L to R: Tony, Dave and Matt Duste
Dave Duste, founder of Dusty’s
Transmissions in Central Point, Oregon, Before we dig into the details of fairly small neighborhood. Their town,
is one shop owner who’s managed to their transition, let’s look at Dusty’s, Central Point, has a population of only
make the transition in a very successful meet Dave and Matt, and learn how about 18,000 people, and the adjoining
manner. His son, Matt, bought the family they built a business model that anyone town, Medford, has only about 80,000,
business from Dave at the beginning of would be proud of. for a total market of just under 100,000
the year, and the process they used people. Not a lot of people to support a
could well become a blueprint for other About Dusty’s transmission and geartrain-only repair
successful transitions all around the Dusty’s Transmissions is an shop.
globe. extremely successful repair shop in a
But his life pushed him toward born. According to Matt: “Our motto is
something a little more practical, so ‘we’re into transmissions!’”
he switched to a business management “I took an old kitchen chair I
track. had at the house to make the legs,”
“When you grow up in a family says Dave, “And I put an old pair
that owns a small business, you think a of Matt’s pants and shoes on it from
little differently,” explains Matt. “You when he was a boy.” Since then the
want to be able to ‘do it yourself,’ transmission-eating-a-small-child sign
because that’s what you’ve seen all has become an icon in the Central
your life.” Point/Medford area. “It was featured “After 37 years, I’m proud to say we’ve built
After college, Matt came back to in the local Medford newspaper,” Dave a heck of a reputation..."
his father’s shop and picked up as says proudly. specific location.
a technician. But he brought some Over the years the sign has received Their advertising must be effective,
wonderful skills and training with him, repeated cleanup and the pants have because Dusty’s stays very busy, which
and Dave was quick to recognize the been replaced numerous times. “In the is all the more impressive when you
value of allowing Matt to put those wintertime, we have a pair of red pants consider their small market.
skills to work for the business. He and boots so it looks like Santa Claus.
credits Matt with helping keep Dusty’s One time a woman came in: Her kid ATRA and Dusty’s
current and for innovation that’s kept was crying because he thought Santa “I opened in 1979, and became an
them profitable. crashed and was stuck.” ATRA Member shortly after that,” says
Even though it’s been shown to Dave. “That helped us a lot; I don’t
Marketing Dusty’s terrify small children, the sign has think we’ve ever missed a seminar.
Dusty’s opened on April 1st: April become an icon through Dusty’s The information we’ve received — the
Fool’s Day. Maybe that has something market. Later, the guy who handles books and the seminars — has been
to do with the idea behind their familiar their TV commercials turned the legs fantastic.”
— and a little scary — sign. around and added a face to create Little They attend Expo nearly every
Scary? Yeah, well, it kind of Dusty, who’s been featured in their ads year and go to the training seminars
looks like a transmission is eating ever since. You can see Little Dusty and whenever they come into their area.
someone. Very Night of the Living one of their commercials on their web “Going to Expo helped us a lot,” says
Transmissions… certainly not your site at www.DustysTransmissions.com. Dave. “I took my whole crew last year.
ordinary repair shop sign. In addition to their sign and their But I try to get at least one of us there
“When I opened in 1979, there TV ads, Dusty’s has done extremely every year.
wasn’t a whole lot out here, so I had well attracting attention with signs on “I never come back without
to do something to draw attention,” two of the local transit busses around learning something, whether it’s from
explains Dave. One day, Matt, who town. That’s not surprising: Many the speakers or just by rubbing elbows
was just 6 or 7 years old, was at the shops have done well with billboard with some of the guys who show up
shop. Dave turned around and saw him advertising, and putting them on busses there. The entire program has come a
climbing into a transmission case, and keeps those billboards moving all long way.
just like that, a marketing concept was around town, instead of locked to one “We had a car come in that
54 GEARS May 2016
absolutely drove us out of our minds. “We looked at each of the lists and he took over, barring any catastrophic
We got a few tips about it when we came to an agreement. Then, when it situations, he should have no problem
were at Expo, and that helped us get it came time, we brought in lawyers to being successful.”
squared away when we got back. We’d handle the contract. It doesn’t matter Now you might think, “Sure, but
put in a new computer and took it to the how much you love your family; it’s that’s because his son was buying the
dealer to have it programmed. Turned best to handle things properly, so there business.” True, but Dave is depending
out their programming equipment aren’t any issues later.” on Dusty’s as much as Matt is. He’s
wasn’t working right; we put the old And to avoid any problems with holding the mortgage on the business
computer back in and the transmission customer perception, Matt took over and still owns the building, so he’s
worked great.” as the face of the business at least a collecting a monthly payment plus rent.
year before the sale was complete. Those payments will keep Dave living
A New Owner Customers were used to seeing him in comfortably for the rest of his life…
charge long before he actually took the provided Dusty’s remains successful.
reins. It’s terrific to see a shop making
According to Dave, one of the most its way from one generation to the
important considerations for both of next. Today, Matt is moving forward,
them was that the business remains continuing the legacy his father began
successful “for both of us. Too many so long ago. And Matt’s son, Tony,
shop owners try to wring as much as is working in the shop after school,
they can out of their businesses before learning the business from his father
the sale. and grandfather. And who knows?
“I’ve watched business owners Maybe one day Dusty’s will be owned
Father, Dave Duste, hands over the bury the people they sell to. They’ll and operated by a third generation of
keys to the business to his son Matt raid the company, take out as much the Duste family.
As of the first of this year, Dusty’s as they can during the last year, don’t Operating a successful transmission
is under new ownership: Matt has replenish anything, and then bury the repair business is difficult enough;
taken over the business. “I’m still here guy with unrealistic figures.” orchestrating a business transition and
helping out,” says Dave, “but Matt’s the According to Dave, that can easily keeping it successful requires
one running things. come back to haunt them: “A couple recognizing that the new owner’s
“It was always understood that years down the road they hand you success is just as important to
Matt would have first shot at the shop back the keys and say, ‘I just can’t you as it is to him.
when Dad retired,” says Dave. But make it here.’ Now you’re 70 years old Thanks in part to Dave’s
that didn’t mean that they’d just shake with a business that’s been run into the support, we expect to see
hands and Dave would hand over the ground. Dusty’s Transmissions
keys: “About a year, year-and-a-half “I invested a lot in this business serve their community
before we did the final deal, we sat over the last couple years to make sure for many years to
down together in a neutral setting, and Matt couldn’t fail. All the big stuff come.
we each wrote down on a legal pad got done: I put a $20,000 roof on the
what we needed. building… that sort of thing. So, when
GEARS May 2016 55
Se e You
i n Pa r is !
ATRA’S
POWERTRAIN
EXPO 2016
October 27 th - 30 th
Las Vegas, NV
www.powertrainexpo.com
SLAUSON TRANSMISSION PARTS
Mike Avila
PRODUCED BY: (800) 421-5580 Ext. 404
mavila@slauson.com
Call or Email Mike Now — Early Bird Rate $100
Management
techniques. The seminar might be only 1.5 hours, but
you get access to 6+ hours of additional online training
that will take this seminar to another level!
MANAGEMENT TRACK
4:45pm - 6:00pm
3:30pm - 4:30pm
Measuring Up To Mobile
Successful Thinking! Presented by Danny Sanchez
Presented by Rodger Bland Your potential customers use mobile
It’s been said that what you think devices to run their lives and solve
about you become – all day problems including getting their
long. Our thinking determines vehicle repaired. This session will
absolutely everything we do. provide you the jumpstart over
In this brand new seminar, your competitors to grab more
Rodger will examine our customers using mobile technology.
thinking strategies and provide Learn how you can create a mobile friendly presence
useful insights on how to align our that will have you getting more phone calls.
thinking with the successful outcomes we all desire. Don’t assume that your current website or marketing
From running a business to running a life it all begins has you covered for the latest advancements in mobile
with Successful Thinking! technology, join this session and stay ahead of your
competition.
Friday
October 28
TECHNICAL TRACK
8:00am - 9:30am 10:00am - 11:30am
Tips and Tricks from the Builders ZF Transmission Diagnostics
Bench Presented by Dirk Fuchs
Common issues and problems on
Presented by John Parmenter 6, 8 and 9HP Transmissions
John brings real world issues to the • 6HP coding faults
presentation. He always delivers the • 9HP dog clutch faults
latest information you’re seeing in and how is it possible to
the shops today. His shop is located check a dog clutch
in Centereach, NY, this year John • 8HP clearance of clutch B
will be covering current repairs the Torque Converter faults
causes for repair and how to diagnose • New analysis with the question “How can an
the job. John will also be sharing scan tool usage, electric ground point destroy a Torque
diagnostic aids and their relationship to the fix. This is a converter?”
must attend show! • Electrical Car diagnostics
MANAGEMENT TRACK
9:00am - 10:15am 10:30am - 12:00pm
Apprentices & Mentors - Your “Pea Soup” The Cure for
Future Depends on Them! “Entrepreneurial Split Personality
Presented by Bill Haas Disorder”
The future of your business depends on
having people to perform the work. Presented by Thom Tschetter
Are you up for the challenge of Owners of small businesses,
finding and training your technicians especially transmission and auto
of the future? With the right repair shops have to wear
approach your company can develop multiple hats. Sometimes they
skilled techs with a desire to stay. Let’s wear the leadership hat and
start by gaining an understanding of the characteristics other times the management
and values young people will bring to the job as an hat. Some owners even find
apprentice. Just as important we need to identify people themselves wearing one or more technician hats. It’s
to be mentors and provide our mentors with the training no wonder so many shop owners suffer from what
and tools to be successful in this new role. Before you Thom calls “Entrepreneurial Split Personality Disorder”
know it you have developed the talent for the future of (ESPD). Thom’s created a power packed presentation
your company. that perpetrates a proactive plan to promote prolific
performance for your business practice.
Saturday
October 29
TECHNICAL TRACK
9:00am - 10:30am 12:00pm - 1:30pm
Developing a Systematic Diagnosing Misfires Using Scan
Approach in Diagnosing Today’s Data
Transmissions Presented by Scott Shotton
Misfires can be caused by a variety
Presented by Jesse Zacarias of issues. Using scan data to
We will be covering the use of narrow our diagnostic path
scanner, graphing meter, scope, can be very valuable, increase
and transducers to proper our efficiency and eliminate
tackle today’s challenging unnecessary tests. Attendees will
transmission problems. learn how to quickly choose which diagnostic direction
Using your scanner to capture to take before they even open the hood.
movies is the best way to verify
intermittent problems as well as verify the concern
you’re diagnosing.
1:30pm - 3:00pm
10:30am - 12:00pm Network Communication -
Drive-ability and Testing of Problems and Diagnostics
Converter Clutch Control Presented by Eric Ziegler
Vehicle communication networks
Presented by Bob Warnke have become common place
Diagnosing torque converter issues on modern vehicles. Often,
are difficult enough without
y adding other problems to
the initial customer complaint
doesn’t seem like a network
the process. Knowing which issue, but rears its ugly head once
direction to go will help you we dig in to the diagnosis. A vehicle with a transmission
illuminate to the guess work out in limp in mode could have no communication with the
of diagnosing. Bob will explain in scan tool or between the PCM and TCM. Where would
an in depth look, on how to test the Converter control you go next? In this class you will learn some basic
systems. theory and some diagnostic testing to get you started in
the right direction.
TRANSMISSIONS
101
FREE
for automotive students and
technicians new to the industry!
Includes:
Special Introductory Seminars
• R&R 101 - Saturday, 9am-10:30am
A comprehensive class covering all the needs our R&R techs must have. From
shop safety to key steps of removing the transmission. Introduction course for
beginners, Students and new employees.
• Diagnostics 101 - Saturday, 10:30am-12pm
This class will contain the core and base level information you’ll need to know
before determining failures. This course is a base level building block for your
career. This course is directed towards newer employees, Students or
employees that want refresher courses.
• Transmissions 101 - Saturday, 12:30pm-2:00pm
A core class on how an automatic transmission operates and what makes it
tick. Basic course for new rebuilders, students and rebuilders looking for a
refresher course.
Seminar Handouts
Trade Show Pass
Expo Discounts at the ATRA BookStore
Certificate of Completion with proof of hours
T-Shirt and Conference Bag
To Register: Call ATRA at (800) 428-8489
Sunday
October 30
Expo Finale
9:00am - 10:30am
What’s Next?
Creating the Future You Want to Live In
Presented by Jim Cathcart
TECH
NT
ME
G E
MA NA
Let’s face it: there are no minor roles. Everyone in your shop plays a significant part in the ultimate
success of your business. In this final session we will combine the tech and management groups for
an exciting and valuable finale. (And a great breakfast/brunch!)
ATRA’s good friend Jim Cathcart will lead us through an experience that has value for everyone in
the shop.
They say that the only way to accurately predict the future is to create it. So that’s what we intend
to do…with your involvement.
This team-building session will explore the people, processes and practices of the future shop you
intend to become.
You will see some real surprises and get many powerful ideas that you can apply today, not far in
the future. This is about what you can do now
in order to become the kind of business or professional you intend to become.
Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is a strategic advisor to ATRA and the most award winning professional speaker in the world. He’s the
author of 18 books and has delivered over 3,000 presentations around the world.
Schedule At A Glance
Thursday, October 27
7am - 5pm Attendee Registration
8am - 9:30am MAF Sensor Tests You Should Know - Dan Marinucci
9:30am - 11am Hybrid Inverters, Motor-Generators, and Transaxles - Jack Rosebro
TECH 11am - 12:30pm Programming: The Process, the Products and the Problems - Keith Clark
1:30pm - 3pm ATF: Choose Your Fluid Like You Would Choose Your Friends - Scott Halley
3pm - 4:30pm Transmission Diagnostics On-Demand - Sean Boyle
4:30pm - 6pm Nissan / Jatco CVT’s - Mike Souza
Friday, October 28
7am - 5pm Attendee Registration
7am - 8am ATRA Member Meeting
8am - 9:30am Tips and Tricks from the Builders Bench - John Parmenter
TECH 10am - 11:30am ZF Transmission Diagnostics - Dirk Fuchs
9am - 10:15am Apprentices & Mentors - Your Future Depends on Them! - Bill Haas
MGMT 10:30am - 12pm “Pea Soup” The Cure for “Entrepreneurial Split Personality Disorder - Thom Tschetter
Saturday, October 29
7am - 5pm Attendee Registration
9am - 10:30am Developing a Systematic Approach in Diagnosing Today’s Transmissions - Jesse Zacarias
10:30am - 12pm Drive-ability and Testing of Converter Clutch Control - Bob Warnke
TECH 12pm - 1:30pm Diagnosing Misfires Using Scan Data - Scott Shotton
1:30pm - 3pm Network Communication - Problems & Diagnostics - Eric Ziegler
9am - 10:15am The Generational Workforce and You - Maylan & Chase Newton
MGMT 10:30pm - 12pm The Revenue Growth Mindset: How You Think is How You Sell & Grow! - Alex Goldfayne
Sunday, October 30
9am - 10:30am What’s Next? Creating the Future You Want to Live In - Jim Cathcart
Tech & Management Expo Finale Breakfast
ATRA Exhibitors
(as of 4/26/16)
Adapt-A-Case North American Powertrain Components (NAPC)
Allomatic Northland Transmission Inc.
Alto Products Corp. Omega Machine & Tool, Inc.
ATK and Parts, LLC Performance Products & Machining (PPM)
ATSG PML, Inc.
Autoshop Solutions, Inc. Portland Torque Products
BAAN Powertrain Corp. Power Pusher-Div. of Nu-Star, Inc.
BlueReach Precision International
Capital Core Inc. Precision of New Hampton, Inc.
Central Valve Bodies, LLC Ray Technologies Solutions Co.
DCM Tech, Inc. Raybestos Powertrain
Dura-Bond Ream Man Valve Bodies
Endural, LLC R.O. Writer Shop Management Software
ETE Reman Rostra Precision Controls, Inc.
EVT Parts Seal Aftermarket Products
Exedy Friction Technics Shenzhen Meridian Parts Company
FCA US LLC -Mopar Slauson Transmission Parts
Ford Motor Company Smart Blend by Life Automotive Products
FPM Transmission Parts Sonnax Industries / Sonnax Road Show
G-Auto Co., LTD STK Transmission Parts Co., Ltd
G-Cor Automotive Corp. SuperFlow Technologies Group
GearSpeed Superior Transmission Parts, Inc.
GEM-CAR Sussex Auto Parts, LTD
Genuine GM Parts TCS Performance Transmission Products
GFX Corp. Teckpak-Fitzall
G-Tec, Inc. Tenn-Tex Automotive
Hayden Automotive TRANSBRITE / Allen Woods & Associates, Inc.
High-Tran Automatic Transmission Co. Ltd Transmaxx, LLC
Hot Flush, LLC Transmission Digest
Hydra-Test Transmission Specialties
Idemitsu Lubricants America Corp. Transtar Industries, Inc.
JDS Worldwide Corp. Transtec by CORTECO
KINERGO JSC Valve Body Pro
KRS International USA Corp. Wesco Automotive, LLC
KUHLE West Coast Standards
Lintex Auto Parts Co., LTD Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc.
LUBEGARD®, A Stellar Automotive Group Co. ZF Services North America
Nextep Funding
www.PowertrainExpo.com
ReMaTec Exhibitors
(Provisional List as of 4/21/16)
Alyukat LLC Kaufman Products
Atlantic Automotive Manufacturing, LLC, dba Kotek America, Inc.
Atlantic Automotive Engineering L R Miller Company, Inc.
BBB Industries, LLC Lester Catalog Co. Inc.
Beijing Naifu Enterprise Co., Ltd Level Seven
BPS Cores, Inc. Litens Aftermarket Network
Church & Dwight Co., Inc. MCI Cores
Circular Economy Solutions GmbH Melett Limited
CRP Industries Inc. Metal Processors of North America
D&V Electronics Metro Auto Industrial Inc.
Dactem Développement Mylex International, Inc.
DAH KEE Co., Ltd. Paul Automobiles
DC Tricore Inc. Phoenix Automotive Cores
Diesel Core Pollution Control Products Co.
Diesel Parts of America Pos Service Holland B.V.
Dorman Products Power Test, Inc.
DS USA Ltd. PTM Electronics
Enginedesk B.V. RAS Rebuilders Automotive Supply
G2 Diesel Products Romaine Electric
GMA Industries Inc. Shenzhen Meridian
Goldfarb & Associates Inc. SKC Karbon, S.A. de C.V.
Hart Brothers Core Co. LLC Taizhou Telent Machinery Co., Ltd.
HC-Cargo The Recycler Core Company Inc.
Herm-Archer Turbochargers The Remanufacture Committee of China
Houghton International Inc. Transbrite
International Auto Trading, Inc Vensel Enterprises
Jada USA LLC Wagner Alternators and Supplies, Inc.
Jiangsu Easyland Automotive Corporation Wah Seng Industry Sdn. Bhd.
JM Interpart Corp. WAI Global
K. Wilson Ltd. Yuhuan Lifeng Auto
KARDES Elektrik Sanayi ve Tic.A.S.
Expo Management
Program CD
Coffee Breaks
Friday Luncheon
Address
( ) ( )
TO REGISTER: Call toll free 1-800-428-8489 or FAX this completed form to 805-988-6761
Badges will be issued from this list. Use a separate sheet for additional registrations. * CONFERENCES ADDITIONAL
(Includes Luncheon & Trade Show)
PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY TICKETS
TITLE: Owner Manager Complete
Conference Technical Management Trade Show Lunch
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE: Owner Manager
Rebuilder Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
Discount for current ATRA Members only. Every 5th Conference attendee is free!
Join or renew today and enjoy the member discount right away! Call ATRA for details
Complete Conference Registrant* _____ $ 395 $ 495 $ 495 $ 595 $ 695 $____________
Technical or Management Conference* _____ 345 445 445 545 645 $____________
Trade Show _____ 20 20 20 20 30 $____________
Extra Luncheon Ticket _____ 50 50 50 50 65 $____________
(Included with Complete, Tech & Management Conferences)
*Conference Registrants may receive Trade Show Passes for spouse and/or
TOTAL $____________
children by contacting ATRA Registration at 1-800-428-8489.
All cancellation requests made
after 10/1/2016 are subject to a
I do not wish to receive any advertising or promotional material from Exhibitors. $50 cancellation fee.
PAYMENT INFORMATION
* Check enclosed payable and mail to: ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030 Check # ______________
Charge to: * MasterCard * Visa * AMEX * Discover
Adapt-A-Case Introduces Honda/Acura units (not for use with Each fall the BBC makes an open
Assembly Lifting Tool the small, 4-cylinders found in Civic call for nominations; businesses
and CR-V). who meet their criteria are invited to
It also fits the MDKA/BDKA submit a formal application. Winners
family of V6 Honda/Acura units. are chosen by an independent panel
To learn more about the K0110 kit, of volunteer community and business
use the QR code to watch the video. leaders based on criteria established by
the Council of Better Business Bureaus’
Adapt-A-Case T-47786AC Tri-City Receives BBB International Torch Award.
2016 Award for Ethics For more information on the 15th
annual BBB Torch Awards for Ethics,
visit torchawards.arizonabbb.org.
Precision Introduces
New Kits for AS69RC
ERIKSSON INDUSTRIES
Division of Wentworth Engineering
1-800-388-4418
Authorized Parts Distributor
•MECHATRONICS - Programmed •
• Hard Parts: NEW / USED / REMANUFACTURED
Soft Parts / Friction Kits / Steel Kits / Repair Manuals
• Lifetime Fluids / Rebuild Kits / Valvebody Kits
1-800-388-4418
Fax: (860) 395-0047
www.zftranspart.com
146B Elm St., Old Saybrook, CT 06475
COMPUTERS
ECM TCM PCM BCM
Foreign & Domestic
A/C PARTS
A/C COMPRESSORS A/C Parts Specialist
888-217-4072
CORES
We’ve
Got
Yours!
With over 150,000 transmission, engine and
internal part cores on the shelf, we have the cores
you need _ ready to ship today!
aamidwestcores.com
76 GEARS May 2016
CALL
BRIAN OR ALBERT
866-571-GEAR
4 3 2 7
NEED QUALITY
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1-800-531-5978
866-464-1871 www.transmissionpartswashers.info
www.sprintertransmission.net
HELP WANTED: Experienced HELP WANTED: Transmission Applications for Full and Part Time
Transmission Rebuilders needed. Rebuilder wanted for Lake Havasu Employees with at least 5 years’
Advanced Transmissions Inc., City, Arizona and Technicians experience, in Transmission, Auto
located in Mauldin, South Carolina needed for Kingman, Arizona area. Repair and Diagnostics. ASE
is seeking full-time, experienced Looking for experience mechanics Certification a plus. Employees
Transmission Rebuilders to be that are dependable, reliable, drug must be able to work M-F 8:00-
part of our team. Candidates free, good hygiene, works well with 5:00, Saturdays 8:00-1:00PM.
must have a minimum of 10 years others and has own tools. Call Requirements to include own tools,
experience with both foreign and Larry at Advanced Transmissions valid Drivers license, knowledge
domestic transmissions. Please (928) 855-4691 or Joe at (928) 757- of Foreign and Domestic vehicles.
send resumes to Gareth Jacobs, 4691. ATRA Mbr Compensation: Paid Vacations,
at AdvancedTransmissionsInc@ Holidays, 401K, Compensation will
gmail.com. Call us at HELP WANTED: Illinois –R&R depend on experience:
(864) 299-9600. Technician wanted, guaranteed 51 www.middletonautorepair.com.
hours a week. Well-known business ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: California - Very established for over 38 years.
busy ATRA Member shop looking Contact Joe or Mike (847) 228- HELP WANTED: We are looking
for Rebuilders and Installers. 1602 at Universal Transmission for an Experienced team player for
Contact Mike at (805) 236-1114. Specialist, Arlington Heights, IL. a full time Re & Re / Diagnostics
ATRA Mbr position. Our shop has a clean
HELP WANTED: Experienced working environment. We offer an
HELP WANTED: AAMCO Transmission Rebuilder – Wanted extended benefits plan and training
Transmission is hiring in Newnan, for established family owned to the successful candidate. Well
Georgia! MASTER SUPPORT business of over 65 years located established 4 Bay Transmission
TECHNICIAN WANTED! Come join in central Iowa. Busy 6 hoist shop shop in Beautiful Vancouver B.C.
one the best automotive brands in offering top salary plus weekly Contact Walt at: (604) 254-6288
the country! L1 ASE Certified with bonuses, 401K, and insurance or email a resume to :
minimum of 5 years automotive benefits. Please contact James at walt.leestransmissions@shaw.ca.
experience required. • Drivability (515) 285-7561 or knudsontrans@ ATRA Mbr
• Transmission • Diagnostics live.com. ATRA Mbr
• Various manufacturer experience HELP WANTED: NATIONAL
• Training background a plus. HELP WANTED: Automotive EMPLOYMENT HEADQUARTERS
Contact Rob at (267) 464-7254 Technicians (Middleton MA) - FOR THE TRANSMISSION
rbuechler@aamco.com. Middleton Transmission and Auto INDUSTRY. Fast, Easy and Free
Repair is currently accepting service to industry employees!
78 GEARS May 2016
GEARS classified advertising cost $95.00 for up to 50 words for a one time insertion. ATRA members 805.604.2025
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
www.gearsmagazine.com
listed above. Ads exceeding the maximum word count will cost $1.50 for each additional word ATRA MEMBERS
(not including phone number and address).
RECEIVE 3 FREE!
Low cost and an easy way to since 1997. Visit our website at:
recruit nationwide for shop owners! www.transteam.com or call us toll
Serving the transmission industry free at: (888) 859-0994.
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ATRA's 2015 Powertrain Expo!
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