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TM

MAY 2016

CVR-0516_v2.indd 2 5/2/16 8:09 AM


Sonnax Zip Kits®
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Sonnax MAY 2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:26 AM


GEARS FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

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

Publisher Dennis Madden


Managing Editor Rodger Bland
Technical Director Lance Wiggins
Advertising Frank Pasley Fuel Trim: Your Crystal Ball Torque Converter Durability Self Motivation
Senior Designer Jeanette Troub Page 18 Page 24 Page 50
Graphic Artist Aurelio Peña

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

56 ATRA's Powertrain EXPO 2016 Guide


Editorial and Business Offices
2400 Latigo Avenue,

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

1TOC-516.indd 2 5/2/16 11:07 AM


FROM THE CEO

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

1frmceo 516.indd 2 5/2/16 9:21 AM


Transtec May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:42 AM
by Keith Clark
members.atra.com

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

1keith 516.indd 4 5/2/16 9:23 AM


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ETE Reman May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:43 AM


Sensing Problems: A Look at Common Sensor Failures

Speed sensors Resistance vs. Temperature


take on different
tasks in different
transmissions.
The TCM depends on this
sensor for accurate temperature
readings so it can select the correct
shift scheduling and bring the
vehicle to operating temperature
as quickly as possible. And it uses
that temperature signal to adjust
the shift strategy in case the
transmission overheats.
If the TFT fails at low tem-
perature, it can cause extremely
late shifts and may inhibit higher Figure 2: This is the typical temperature to resistance relation chart and graph that you can
gears or lockup. use to check for proper TFT sensor response.
When the TFT fails at high
temperature, it can cause stacked
shifts, harsh shifts, and immediate
lockup apply.
Low Speed
There may not be any codes
associated with an incorrect TFT High Speed
sensor reading. Verify the sensor
reading by comparing your scan
tool PID to the reading from an
infrared thermal gun. You can
perform a quick check by using a
fixed value resistor in place of the
TFT sensor outside the transmis-
sion (figure 2).
A short to ground (extremely
high temperature) or an open
circuit (extremely low temperature) Figure 3: Represents a typical permanent magnet speed sensor wave form. The wave form
frequency and voltage increases with reluctor speed. Sensor resistance is normally from 500
anywhere between the sensor and
to 1,500 ohms.
the computer can cause an
incorrect temperature reading.

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

1keith 516.indd 6 5/2/16 9:23 AM


Superior Transmission May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:44 AM
Sensing Problems: A Look at Common Sensor Failures

A Hall Effect sensor requires


a voltage source to operate and
will generate a digital signal that
maintains its magnitude, but
increases frequency with RPM
(figure 5). While most Hall Effect
sensors are three-wired, some are
two-wired and can be mistaken
for a permanent magnet type
during a visual inspection.
Verifying good speed sensor
signals can be tricky. Using a scan
tool in graph mode provides a
Figure 5
good sample of the stability of the
signal, but the values are averaged,
so it’s easy to miss glitches or low
signal output. The best way to
check these sensors is a graphing
voltmeter or scope. Monitoring the
signal right at the control module
lets you see what the module sees.
Speed sensor failures usually
cause no shifts or failsafe
operation. Sometimes codes are
present, but not always.
Intermittent signal dropout or
noise are common failures, and
usually you’ll only be able to
detect them with a graphing
voltmeter or scope monitoring the
circuit directly.
There are other sensors
in the transmission that can
cause driveability issues; we
won’t be covering them in this
article because they usually set
trouble codes.
Of course our story doesn’t Figure 6: This is a typical graph of a good MAF sensor at WOT, 1-2 shift.
end here. Now we’ll look at the
engine sensors that can fail without
setting codes. Some manufacturers use the MAF sensor and test drive to see if the
sensor in conjunction with others to shift quality improves.
MASS AIRFLOW (MAF) SENSOR display a calculated engine load • Firm to harsh shifts and engage-
This may be the most overlooked percentage and torque signal ments. Again, elevated line pressure
sensor in the vehicle. It provides an parameters. Here are some shift commands will be an indicator.
engine load signal to the powertrain problems that may be caused by a • Erratic shift quality complaints
control module. failing MAP sensor without setting Here’s the important part: Much
For the transmission, the MAF any codes: of the transmission shift scheduling is
sensor can be thought of as a vacuum • Soft, slip, or flare shifts. Usually the calculated from input provided by the
modulator, but instead of using a commands to the pressure control MAF sensor. Often this sensor won’t
vacuum signal to act directly on a solenoid will be low relative to the fail completely; it’ll just start to operate
valve inside the transmission, it uses a actual demand. poorly and won’t trigger a trouble code.
device to measure how much air is • Harsh downshifts. You’ll normally To test the performance of a MAF
being used by the engine. The signal see pressures higher than expected sensor, monitor and record the sensor
produced is used to raise or lower at idle or low load conditions. This signal response during a wide open
transmission line pressure, usually could also indicate issues with air throttle 1-2 or 2-3 shift. This will place
through a pressure control solenoid or leaks past the MAF or a restricted the engine in its most efficient range
a combination of modulated clutch exhaust. Create an exhaust leak by and will force the MAF to a maximum
apply solenoids. removing an upstream oxygen reading (Figure 6). At this point you
8 GEARS May 2016

1keith 516.indd 8 5/2/16 9:23 AM


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• Washers • Parts Washer Soap
• Bearings • Rough Service Light Bulbs
• Gaskets • R.T.V. Black, Blue, Clear
• Bands • Technical Manuals
• Flex Plates & Flywheels • Tools & Equipment
• Coolers • Threadlock & Thread Repair
• TeckPak Conversion Kits
• Superior Shift Correction Packages Electrical
• Transgo Reprogramming Kits • Solenoids, Sensors, & Switches
• Transgo Shift Kits • Electrical Components

Version 5.0
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Digital Catalog
For quicker access & more info, including
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800-940-0197
www.wittrans.com
WIT May2016.indd 2 5/2/16 8:45 AM
Sensing Problems: A Look at Common Sensor Failures

can analyze the maximum reading


and compare it to the expected
reading using a volumetric
efficiency chart. These charts are
easy to find on line (Figure 7).
Another way to test this
sensor is to use factory procedures
to obtain specific values under
specific operating conditions. This
information is available through
Alldata, Mitchell, and ShopKey,
just to name a few resources.
Some scan tools have test
procedures programmed into their
troubleshooter software under
engine scan functions and special
functions. They usually provide
good values.

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

1keith 516.indd 10 5/2/16 9:23 AM


MidStates Transmission May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:46 AM
STREET SMART

CIRCUIT
DIAGNOSIS by Mike Brown
members.atra.com

Made Easier by
Looking at the Big Picture

C adillacs have always given


diagnosticians headaches
when it comes to diagnostics.
Let’s not kid anyone here: the Cadillac
has twenty plus modules, miles of wir-
more negative pressure
• Fuel tank pressure sensor signal
voltage low, about 1.5 volts or
less positive pressure
DTC P0463 — Fuel Level Sensor;
Conditions for setting DTC P0463:
Primary fuel level signal is above 4.5
volts.
DTC P0533 — A/C Refrigerant
Pressure Sensor Circuit; High Input
ing, and controls for just about every- High Circuit Input — The primary and — The engine control module (ECM)
thing including the kitchen sink. secondary fuel level senders change monitors the high side refrigerant
So when it comes to diagnostics, resistance in response to fuel level. pressure via the A/C refrigerant
the trick is to keep it simple. Here we’re The engine control module (ECM) pressure sensor. The ECM applies five
going to talk about a 2005 Cadillac STS monitors the signals from the primary volts and ground to the sensor. Changes
with the MIL lit; the only complaint and secondary fuel level senders to in the A/C refrigerant pressure cause
was that it wouldn’t pass the emissions determine the fuel level. the signal to vary. When the pressure’s
(smog) test. When the fuel tanks are full, the low, signal voltage is low. When the
First things first: If you can’t verify resistances of both fuel level senders pressure’s high, signal voltage is high,
the complaint, perform a quick scan test are high and the ECM senses a high and the ECM commands the cooling
and check for codes. In this case there voltage at the primary and secondary fans on.
were four codes: DTC P0451, P0463, fuel level senders. When the fuel tanks When pressure is too high or too
P0533, and P2068. are low, the resistances of the fuel level low, the ECM won’t allow the A/C
DTC P0451 — Evaporative senders are low, and the ECM senses a compressor clutch to engage and it sets
Control System Pressure Sensor; Range/ low voltage. code P0533. With the DTC set, the
Performance — The control module The ECM uses these signals to ECM won’t allow the A/C compressor
monitors the fuel tank pressure (FTP) calculate the amount of fuel left in clutch to engage. This is to protect the
sensor signal for vacuum decay or the tanks. The ECM sends the fuel compressor.
excess vacuum during the evaporative level signals via the GMLAN serial Conditions for setting DTC P0533:
emission (EVAP) diagnostic test. data circuit to the instrument cluster to A/C refrigerant pressure sensor signal
The control module supplies a 5-volt control the fuel gauge. The fuel level voltage is above 4.88 volts for more
reference and ground to the fuel tank information is also used for misfire than three seconds.
pressure sensor. and evaporative emission (EVAP) DTC P2068 — Fuel Level (Sensor
Conditions for setting DTC P0451: diagnostics. This code indicates a B) Circuit High — The primary and
• Fuel tank pressure sensor signal higher-than-normal primary fuel level secondary fuel level senders change
voltage high, about 4.5 volts or sender signal. resistance in response to fuel level.
12 GEARS May 2016

1Mikebrown516x.indd 12 5/2/16 7:46 AM


NAPC May 2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:48 AM
Circuit Diagnosis Made Easier by Looking at the Big Picture
The engine control module (ECM)
monitors these fuel level sender
signals to determine the fuel level.
When the fuel tanks are full, the
resistances of both fuel level senders
are high, and the ECM senses a high
signal voltage on both circuits. When
the fuel tanks are low, the resistances
of the fuel level senders are low, and
the ECM senses a low voltage.
The ECM uses these voltages
to calculate the fuel left in the tanks.
The ECM sends the fuel level
signal via the GMLAN serial data
circuit to the instrument cluster to
control the fuel gauge. The fuel level
information is also used for misfire
and evaporative emission (EVAP)
diagnostics.
Conditions for setting DTC
P2068: Secondary fuel level signal
is above 4.5 volts.
So that’s the descriptions and
conditions for each code; if you were
to print the diagnostic test procedures
for all four codes you’d end up with
19 pages and 56 steps of diagnostic
procedures… that’s a lot of testing! Figure 1
There has to be an easier way… and
there is:
Notice that you have several
codes indicating high sensor voltage
on 5-volt sensors. This is often a
good indication of an open shared
sensor ground. When sensors have
no ground, there’s no way for them
to pull voltage down across their
internal resistance.
In a 2-wire sensor, the current
flow causes a voltage drop across
two loads in series (the sensor and
the fixed resistor in the PCM). If
there’s no ground, voltage can’t be
pulled down, so the signal circuit
reads reference voltage. But if it was
just the one sensor that lost ground,
the problem should only be in that
sensor.
Could a short to a 5-volt source
be the cause? Nope, because voltage
shorted to a ground circuit is pulled
low. Yes, it’s possible to short five
volts to a ground circuit, but then
it wouldn’t have five volts in the
reference signal; it’d be near 0 volts
or cause other damage. Figure 2
Look at the conditions for each At this point you need to examine diagram. This is a 4-page wiring
code: See the pattern? All of them a wiring diagram. My choice for this diagram (figure 1); we’ve simplified it
indicate high signal voltage. condition is an engine performance for this article.
14 GEARS May 2016

1Mikebrown516x.indd 14 5/2/16 7:46 AM


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Precision International May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:49 AM


Circuit Diagnosis 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!

16 GEARS May 2016

1Mikebrown516x.indd 16 5/2/16 7:46 AM


GearSpeed MAy2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:50 AM
Fuel Trim: Your
CRYSTAL by Scott Shotton

BALL
THE DRIVEABILITY GUYS

I n the last issue of GEARS we


looked at oxygen sensor testing,
and it brought up some interesting
questions about fuel trim. As a result,
we’ll spend the next few articles learn-
Defining Fuel Trim
Fuel trim is the correction the PCM
makes to try to maintain a stoichiometric
air-to-fuel ratio. For gasoline, that’s
about 14.7 parts air to one part fuel, or
These corrections are based on the
input from the oxygen sensor, which is
why last issue’s article is so important.
Before you can trust fuel trim numbers,
the oxygen sensors, or air/fuel ratio
ing to understand fuel trim numbers and 14.7:1. sensors, have to function properly.
their diagnostic value. When a vehicle rolls off the
In a way, fuel trim is line a “crystal assembly line, it’s programmed to Short Term vs
ball” that allows you to see what the deliver the ideal mix of fuel for any Long Term
PCM is trying to do. This month we’ll given condition. But, as conditions Short term fuel trim, or STFT,
cover the basics of fuel trim, to establish change, components degrade or faults is the correction that occurs right
a good foundation for the diagnostic develop; the PCM makes corrections now. That is, if a lean condition just
techniques to follow. to fuel delivery to try to maintain developed, the PCM would need to add
stoichiometry. fuel to maintain stoichiometry.

Figure 1

18 GEARS May 2016

1scottshotton516jt.indd 18 5/2/16 8:10 AM


Smart Blend May 2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:51 AM
Fuel Trim: Your Crystal Ball

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

1scottshotton516jt.indd 20 5/2/16 8:10 AM


Fuel Trim: Your Crystal Ball

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.

22 GEARS May 2016

1scottshotton516jt.indd 22 5/2/16 8:10 AM


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Transtar May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:48 AM
by Rob Faucett
members.atra.com

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.

24 GEARS May 2016

1Rob 516.indd 24 5/2/16 9:26 AM


Figure 1d: Triple Disc

Figure 1a: Common Converter Clutch

Figure 1c: Captive Clutch

Figure 1b: Clutch Pack

GEARS May 2016 25

1Rob 516.indd 25 5/2/16 9:27 AM


Torque Converter Durability

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

26 GEARS May 2016

1Rob 516.indd 26 5/2/16 9:27 AM


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Slauson May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 8:59 AM


Torque Converter Durability

Honda also has an issue with the


spring retainers becoming damaged.
Small welds to hold the retainer to
the clutch housing (figure 4) adds
extra support and helps prevent these
retainers from breaking off and
damaging other parts of the converter.
Installing Mercedes clutch pistons
with their square cut rings can be
difficult and, if they get cut, they can
cause clutch chatter or slip. Another
common problem that causes clutch
chatter is improperly prepared steels.
Dave recommends bead blasting over
any other method. He must be right:
Over the years I’ve never had one of
his converters chatter or slip. Figure 4
The 4L80E converters have an
issue with the piston plate breaking,
causing a leak and burning up the
Stock plate welded
converter clutch. There are a couple
options to fix this (figure 5). One is
to weld the area on the piston plate
that breaks to reinforce it, or to use
an aftermarket billet plate. The billet
plate is the best way to go, but it costs
a lot more than a little welding.
The AS68RC converters have a
common issue with the pilot hub on
the back of the converter breaking
(figure 6). There’s an aftermarket hub
that’s much thicker to correct this
problem, but it requires special tooling
to install.
As with any other part of the
transmission, your torque converter is Billet plate
only as strong as its weakest link. Use
the right fluid, check your valve bodies
and pumps for wear in the valve bores,
replace the stator bushings and sealing
rings, and check the surfaces they ride
Figure 5
on. Overlooking the small things can
lead to spending a lot of money on a
comeback.

Figure 6

28 GEARS May 2016

1Rob 516.indd 28 5/2/16 9:28 AM


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May 10/11 6R140 Internal
May 24/25 6F35N Internal
June 7/8 AS68RC Internal
June 21/22 Lineartronic Gen 1 & 2 Comparison
July 5/6 6T40 & 6T70 comparison
July 19/20 Nissan CVT Internal
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ATRA_Webinars May 2016.indd 1 5/2/16 9:04 AM


Correcting
Carrier Float in by

a 400 or 4L80 Cristoforos Kokkonis

Transmission

I n the March 2016 issue of GEARS,


we examined a previously
unmentioned problem with 400
and 4L80 transmissions: component float.
We saw what causes this float and the
damage it can create if left unchecked.
In this issue, we’ll take a look at ways
to eliminate component float in the output
carrier and center support to improve the
durability of your rebuilds. We’ll start by
identifying the precise cause of the carrier
float and the problems it can cause.
Figure 1
Reaction Carrier Float
During operation, with the rear band
off, the transmission’s design creates a
fixed horizontal plane between two thrust
surfaces, in which the reaction carrier
(666) is free to “float” (figure 1). The
front thrust surface is the thrust washer
(656) at the rear of the stationary center
support (654); the rear thrust surface is
the washer (674) at the front face of the
output carrier (675).
It’s easier to understand this principle
if you stand the rear section and center
support up on the bench (figure 2).
Press down on the center support with
your palms while lifting the reaction carrier
up and down with your fingers. That
movement is the float, or reaction carrier
endplay. In most cases the endplay will
be between 0.050” to 0.080”.
Figure 2

30 GEARS May 2016

1CK-516.indd 30 5/2/16 8:13 AM


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atra testimonial2.indd 2 3/28/16 10:18 AM


Correcting Carrier Float in a 400 or 4L80 Transmission

Figure 3 Figure 4

When fitting the thrust bearing assembly, you’ll need to


machine a pocket to a depth of 0.075”, an inside diameter
of 2.125” and outside diameter of 2.875”

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.

32 GEARS May 2016

1CK-516.indd 32 5/2/16 8:13 AM


Use a height gauge to measure
the distance from the front face of
the mainshaft to the front face of the
center support bushing bore (figure 5).
Record the measurement; this will be
dimension A.
Next, dismantle the assembly
enough to install the thinnest selective
thrust washer in the machined pocket
behind the thrust bearing. Reinstall
the bearing and reassemble the unit.
Measure and record again; this will be
dimension B.
Repeat this procedure using
selective shims between the bearing
pocket and the bearing until dimension
B is 0.005” to 0.010” less than dimension
A. This will confirm you’ve raised the
center support off the reaction carrier
assembly.
Subtract dimension B from
dimension A to determine how much
you’ll need to remove from the shims Figure 5
to bring the reaction carrier to zero
endplay. The front face of the output carrier endplay. Keep in mind that, whatever
Remove this amount, plus an is also the rear thrust surface for the the total rear endplay the assembly
additional 0.002” to 0.006” to maintain reaction carrier. Because the output actually has, you must add that to the
the recommended reaction carrier carrier is attached to the output shaft, its value obtained during the adjustment
endplay of 0.002” to 0.006”. forward and rearward thrust is common process to understand the total reaction
To establish the zero endplay with the output shaft and its axial carrier endplay encountered during
necessary to adjust reaction carrier motion is limited to the amount of certain operating conditions.
endplay, you’ll need to lift the center rear endplay. That’s why keeping rear Next time around we’ll take a
support off the #20 thrust bearing endplay to a minimum will reduce thorough look at the rear endplay — the
assembly. This is the only practical reaction carrier float. front endplay scenario will prove things
method for establishing the necessary During this check we stood the aren’t always as they seem.
dimensions. assembly up on the table, which
essentially zeroed out rear section

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GEARS May 2016 33

1CK-516.indd 33 5/2/16 8:13 AM


WHAT’S WORKING

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”;

34 GEARS May 2016

whats working 516.indd 34 5/2/16 9:31 AM


someone o can train to fill the tech at a ord dealership rom there those shop owners who worries that,
position o need to fill it was st a matter of time efore if train them, the ll st lea e and
his isn t a new concept an started doing light repair water find a o somewhere else
means n fact, it s the wa learned p mps, al e co er gas ets, hoses and omeone mentioned that to im
the siness, as did the ast ma orit elts, and so on athcart when he first oined A A s
of s t s a process called m ent o r ing ilt m first A management training team is
where someone with more following the steps in a shop man al response Afraid if o train them
nowledge helps o gain the s ills tep step, it too me three da s to the might lea e hat if o don t
o need to do the o o rself complete, and it didn t wor eca se train them and the sta
And mentoring doesn t re ire a left o t the p mp shaft e eral ho rs he mentalit of hiring e pe-
teaching degree or a lot of e perience and a p mp shaft later, dro e it down rienced technicians witho t ha ing
er often it s st a o t letting o r the road and was on m wa to train them might ha e wor ed
trainee watch while o do the o e ach step in m o rne too ears ago, t toda s siness
hands o a wrench or gra s a meter, me a step closer to where am now en ironment won t s pport it n the
and o do the repair ometimes it And each step was s per ised a last iss e of A , ennis adden
in ol es captioning o r wor a little mentor, who wor ed with me to ma e renamed the idea of stic ing with an
a e s re o connect this lead to s re learned to do the o proper- old strateg after the en ironment
a good gro nd efore o ma e o r l and mo e on to the ne t phase in changed e called it the illigan s
chec s, or the readings won t e right m training t s not a ni e stor sland siness model And, while
ere s a good place to connect it hances are o or someone in the name certainl ma es for a
started o t p mping gas t o r shop followed a similar path in good la gh, it s no wa to r n a
wasn t long efore m mentor had o r careers s ccessf l siness
me changing oil and mo nting tires on t li e the idea of training oda s mar et en ironment
ent all too a o as a ic l e o r own technicians Are o one of demands a new approach to staffing,

RostraTRANSMISSION

GEARS May 2016 35

whats working 516.indd 35 5/2/16 9:32 AM


A New Dynamic for Today’s Transmission Shops

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

whats working 516.indd 36 5/2/16 9:32 AM


A
lfred State College is a small The AOS programs are designed live work, with projects being provided
technical school, with about as career “go-to-work” programs, and by students, their family members,
3500 students, in the Southern the college provides a ladder for those faculty, and staff.
Tier of Western New York State. students who wish to continue their “It’s important to us that we don’t
The college is part of the State educations toward a four-year degree. take outside work that may interfere
University of New York (SUNY) The auto department has a with business opportunities for local
system and offers a variety of two and long-standing relationship with ATRA. shops,” says Ronan. “We understand
four-year degrees. Transmission class instructor Mike the importance of putting students
The automotive department Ronan has been an ATRA Member in a typical industry environment,
resides in the School of Applied and Proctor since the mid 1980s. and the college population provides
Technology, which also offers All of the AOS programs at us with ample opportunities. The
Associate of Occupational Science Alfred focus on “live work,” meaning auto department relies on industry
(AOS) programs in building trades, that students participate in real-world partnerships to get the job done, and
electrical, manufacturing technology, learning opportunities every day. ATRA has been instrumental in
and culinary arts. The auto trades Nowhere is this more evident than providing students with a variety of
department includes automotive the transmission course, a mandatory tools to ‘Hit the Ground Running,’”
technology, truck and diesel, collision, second year course in the auto tech (the trademark statement of Alfred
and motorsports. curriculum. The course emphasizes State College).

38 GEARS May 2016

1AlfredStateCollege 516.indd 38 5/2/16 9:34 AM


ATRA has long provided a full
toolbox to help automotive students
understand one of the more complex
parts of the industry. The Tech Repair
Center, bulletins, GEARS Magazine,
and ATRA technical publications have
been widely used for years.
The recent addition of ATRA
webinars has brought a new level of
involvement to the transmission class.
Webinars are scheduled to maximize
student participation, and many
students who’ve already taken the
transmission course return to sit in on
the webinars with the current class. The Axiline dyno information is projected on a monitor so students can see data in real time.
Ronan notes that “the students
really get into the webinars because knowledge to help repair two trucks “Laptops are one of our key tools,
they’re clearly executed. Each one in the shop where he works part-time. and the webinars show the students
starts with an introduction to the This is just one of many instances how important they are for information
subject that lets them see what material where students take what they’ve and repair techniques. Our students
will be covered. The component learned from ATRA and put it to use, are part of the new generation of
descriptions and operation provide the whether in the lab or at their jobs. technicians, and they have no fear
background. The students are really The webinar experience holds of technology.”
hands-on, so when the webinar goes their attention, and the format leads to ATRA provides other assets to
into diagnosis and repair, they really discussions that continue long after the help students get ready for employ-
sit up and listen.” screen shuts down. The wide variety of ment: Transmission class students
These webinars aren’t just another material in the webinars matches many are assigned readings from GEARS
theoretical learning opportunity of the subjects presented in the trans- Magazine, and often choose articles
for Alfred Auto students: A recent mission class. Overhaul procedures, on shop management and customer
webinar on the Aisin AS68RC pro- flashing protocol, and diagnostic infor- relationships as topics for assignments.
vided critical diagnostic information mation all fit the Alfred program well, The Tech Repair Center is a
to one student who used his new-found says Ronan. natural choice for students who’ve

GEARS May 2016 39

1AlfredStateCollege 516.indd 39 5/2/16 9:34 AM


Alfred State Automotive and ATRA: A Perfect Partnership

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

40 GEARS May 2016

1AlfredStateCollege 516.indd 40 5/2/16 9:35 AM


The senior automotive building contains a fully-stocked parts store to support the live-work program.

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

GEARS May 2016 41

1AlfredStateCollege 516.indd 41 5/2/16 9:35 AM


O F
A R DAY OU T !
A C
T .TO
H

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

atra seminar ad516.indd 1 4/27/16 3:34 PM


What’s Covered... GENERAL MOTORS
• 4T40E • 6L80
- Harsh Shifts, - TCC Slip, Shudder DTCs
GENERAL Harsh Engagement, DTC P0013, - Intermittent No Upshifts In Tow
High Line Pressure Haul Mode, No DTCs
• Reprogramming - J2534 Information • 4T65E • 6L80/90
- J1850 - J2534 Pass thru Device - TCC Slip at 200-300 RPM on - Ratcheting Noise and/or Bind
- ISO 9141-2 and ISO 14230 - Power Supply Issues Highway, No DTCs in Reverse
- ISO 15765 - Chrysler, Plymouth, Dodge • 4L60E - Slow 3rd Gear Apply,
- DTC P0741 Set and Harsh 1-2 Slight Delay in Reverse
Shift – Vehicles Manufactured • LCT 1000
FORD after 10/1/11 – 11/13/12
- Harsh Shifts 1-2, DTC P0741
- No Upshifts Until Throttle is
Released
• 4L80E - Neutral On Hard Acceleration
4R70W/75E • 6F35/50
- Planet Damage After Rebuild, - - No Reverse, DTC P0740 TCC
- Transmission Over Temp - No 3rd Gear,
Pump Interchange Enable Solenoid Control Circuit
4R75E P0796 Shift Solenoid 3 Stuck Off
• 5L40 - SPS Message While Program-
- Grinding, Whining, Vibration and/ - DTC P0751, Harsh, Slips and/or
- Crank/No Start After Rebuild ming a 2006 LCT 1000
or Gear Slippage No Forward Engagement
- No 4th or 5th Gear After Rebuild - No Forward or Repeat C1 Failure
FNR5/FS5A-EL - No Reverse After Rebuild
- Sprag Rotation Before and After Rebuild
- No 5th Gear After Rebuild • CFT30
• 6T30 - No Forward and/or Reverse
FNR5/FS5A-EL - Transmission Overheat, Possible
- GM 6T30 (MH9) Family Quick Engagement or Shifts Inhibited
- P0720 After Rebuild No Movement DTCs Set
Identification - Valve Body Installation
- P2708 SSF Functional Failure - Inoperative Cruise Control and/or
• 6T40 - Planet Failure, Rebuild Procedure
(Stuck On) No Sound From Radio
- No Forward, - MIL On, Poor Transmission Shift
- One Way Clutch Assembly - Solenoid Exchange
Reverse Engagement Only Performance/Quality
- P0753 May Be Confusing • 6R60/ZF6HP - Fluid Leak From Front of Allison
- Wrench Light Illuminated Comparison - Air Check Port Identification
Transmission
• 5R110W (Torqshift) - Input Shaft/Stator Support • 6T40/70
- No Movement After Reflash • 8L90
- No Move After Rebuild Differences - Solenoid Identification and Strat-
- Manual Code Retrieval on LCF - E Clutch Drum Bushing - Overheat When Overfilled,
Setting Code P0218 egy
Trucks - Air Checks - Solenoid Location and Function
- Intermittent No Movement After - Pan Exchange • GM 6T70
- Harsh Shifts
Rebuild • 6R140W (Torqshift 6) - Air Check Port Identification
- Harsh Shift When Starting at
- Low Diode Failure - High Pitch Noise, Pump Whine - Line Pressure Tap Location &
Low Temperatures
• 6F35 - Pump Failure All Specifications
- Transmission Gear Whine Noise
- Hoot Type Noise at Low Speed - Direct Clutch Piston Removal - Rough Ride
After Transmission Repair • Aisin TL80SN 8 Speed
On Light Acceleration From a - Valve Body Replacement
- Harsh 1-2 Upshift During (RPO MGG)
Stop Before First Shift - No Move Before or
Low Speeds - Service Transmission Light
- P0218 Transmission Overheat After Overhaul
Flashing and/or MIL On and DTC
Low Mileage P0705 Set

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

atra seminars ad116-p2.indd 1 1/7/16 1:54 PM


ATRA
Represented at
TCRA’s
Annual Event
O
ver April 15th and 16th, while We got up early Friday morning,
so many of you were scram- had a quick breakfast, and met
bling to get your taxes done downstairs in the hotel lobby. There,
before the deadline, I was in Seattle, the whole group was whisked away
Washington, for the Torque Converter in two busloads to the Boeing Everett
Rebuilders Association’s (TCRA) assembly plant for a tour. The plant is
annual seminar and industry event. the largest building in the world under
Joined by ATRA Tech Specialist Mike one roof.
Souza, we made our way to the Best The tour began with a short
Western Plus Executive Inn Hotel and video, detailing the history of Boeing.
Conference Center; the home venue From there, we were treated to a by Rodger Bland
for the event. firsthand look as they assembled 747s, members.atra.com
This was an important meeting 777s, and 787s. It was a fascinating
for shops that rebuild torque convert- process to watch, as the assembly weight is measurable, and using less
ers, and there were people from all teams took the wings, tail, fins, and paint saves them fuel.
around the globe in attendance. We engines, and began final assembly of We capped off Friday with a
had representatives from Ireland, these behemoths of the sky. reception hosted by Sonnax — open
South America, Switzerland, Mexico, One thing we discovered was bar, tasty hors d’oeuvres, and an
New Zealand, and Alaska. that only the 747 and 777 were made evening of sparkling conversation.
One of the pervasive messages of aluminum; the 787 is constructed The general climate was one that
throughout the meeting was the from carbon fiber, a material that’s echoed ATRA’s What’s Working
importance of finding new transmis- lighter than aluminum but stronger message for this year: the need to
sion technicians for our industry. than steel. stimulate more technicians to join
That message recognized the implied We also learned that the manu- our industry.
connection between our two facturer no longer paints the entire I was honored to kick things off
industries; a connection that’s only planes; they just apply paint to areas bright and early Saturday morning.
been strengthened by our ongoing where they want to stencil the airlines’ I took the opportunity to remind those
support of one another. names and logos. The difference in in attendance of the importance of

44 GEARS May 2016

1TCRAwrap 516.indd 44 5/2/16 9:36 AM


balance in one’s life: balance between we’d heard so far. Then it was back to One of the more interesting
work and everything else… the things the books: aspects of the TCRA event was that
that we are all working for, such as John Parmenter spent some time the vendors set up their displays right
family and friends. looking at common transmission and in the seminar hall. Attendees could
I was followed by what could converter issues. visit their booths during breaks or
only be described as a Who’s Who of ATRA’s Mike Souza went over between speakers.
transmission and torque converter some of the issues that transmission The vendors included Wolfpack
industry experts and market specialists: rebuilders often blame on the torque Enterprises Automotive Cores,
Bob Warnke from Sonnax spoke converter; problems that aren’t actu- Sonnax, Raybestos, Transmission
about technical issues facing torque ally the converter’s fault. Specialties, and Tri-Components. All
converter rebuilders. Jeff Stuck reinforced the techni- of the vendors gave brief presentations
TCRA Board Member Mike cal messages that we’d been hearing before breaks, and all of them pro-
Cargill from Transtar discussed up till then, putting a point on those vided door prizes that were awarded
the future of torque converters, issues for the audience. during the event. WIT provided door
including the tech challenges facing Then exiting TCRA president prizes but didn’t have a booth at
the industry. And he presented the Brad Gilbert introduced Martin the event.
need for retooling, in part because Brooks as the newly chosen president. Overall, it was a terrific weekend,
of the diminishing size of today’s Martin and TCRA Board Member filled with powerful insights and
torque converters. Rafi Pilavjian led a group discussion useful information. And, in the end,
Bobby Mace from Transmission on myriad topics facing the torque it was a weekend that helped reinforce
Digest presented statistics from the converter industry. This was every- the bonds between the torque convert-
transmission industry, explaining one’s chance to be heard and help er and transmission repair industries:
which transmissions and converters set the association’s agenda for the A successful result in itself.
are in the greatest demand today. coming year. And for the rest of you who
After Bobby we broke for There were coffee breaks during couldn’t be there, here’s hoping you
lunch; a sumptuous buffet hosted the seminar program courtesy of got your taxes finished on time.
by BorgWarner. It was a chance to Transtar, Wolfpack and Transmission
receive feedback on the seminars Specialties.

GEARS May 2016 45

1TCRAwrap 516.indd 45 5/2/16 9:36 AM


UP YOUR BUSINESS

by Thom Tschetter

Up Your Business is an exclusive “Is management a function of lead-


GEARS Magazine feature in which ership, or is leadership a function
I share stories, insights, and reflections of management?”
about real business and life challenges.
I don’t know about you, but back THE PRESIDENTIAL PRIMARIES
in school, I used to hate when a test I’m writing this article several
question started with the phrase, weeks before GEARS actually hits
“Compare and contrast…” It always the streets. So, as I write it, no presi-
meant that I was going to have to think dential candidate from either party
and then write an essay about what has garnered enough delegates to
I thought. Who knew that someday secure his or her respective party’s
I would actually get paid for writing nomination. In fact, the way it’s
essays? Go figure. shaping up, the candidates may still
In this article I’m going to be fighting it out as you read this a few
compare and contrast leadership and weeks from now.
management. That is, I’ll discuss At any rate, I can’t think of a
how they’re similar and, in con- more fitting way of comparing and
trast, how they’re different. In fact contrasting leadership and manage-
they’re often different to the point of ment than in the context of a political
being in opposition with one another. campaign. I assure you that I’m not
Together, we’ll explore the question, offering political commentary… just

46 GEARS May 2016

1tschetter 516.indd 46 5/2/16 9:38 AM


making some observations. I hope you Here’s what I find most interest- have occurred among the candidates?
won’t even know who I favor by what ing: In the beginning of the primary As various candidates leave the race,
I say. races, the candidates talk a lot about they suddenly soften on some of their
First of all, there’s been plenty of leadership. They promise not to just positions, finding common ground
comparing and contrasting going on change things, but to transform things. with, and even endorsing, the very
between the candidates. All of them The difference between change people they were fighting.
started by staking out a claim to one or and transformation has to do with Others stay in the race but modify
more positions that they passionately the degree of change, and they tell and, in some instances, even abandon
believe to be uniquely theirs. They also us that only a strong leader can bring their positions to appeal to a broader
believe they and their positions will be about transformation. They tell us that base of voters. Their message begins
popular enough to win the hearts and only they have the leadership skills to to get a little watered down and starts
votes of the majority of voters. succeed. Without expressing any per- becoming somewhat muddled. The
It’s as though they’ve come sonal bias or value judgments, here candidates even seem a little less
upon the ultimate secret sauce to are some examples of change versus passionate and, as their passion fades,
solve the most important problems transformation. it becomes more and more difficult to
our nation faces. In some cases, I • Change is enforcing our borders by differentiate between them.
wasn’t aware all these problems improving border security. The sad part is that this trend
existed until they pointed them out. • Transformation is improving continues all the way through
I guess we don’t know we have a security by building a wall and the general election. And when a
problem until someone has a solution. making Mexico pay for it. winner is finally determined, history
Makes you wonder how our nation • Change is reducing tax rates, demonstrates that things will likely
can survive when each candidate’s simplifying tax codes, and closing return to essentially the same old,
problems represent a crisis of tax loopholes. glacial-paced, incremental or even no-
apocalyptic proportions! • Transformation is a flat tax; tax change-at-all governmental processes.
But, if they don’t identify a returns that can be completed on a After our supercharged, impas-
problem and a solution for that postcard and eliminating the IRS. sioned, wide-eyed candidate has taken
problem, what will they hang their hats • Change is making health care office, the only transformation that
on? Other than an incumbent, can you affordable and accessible for seems to have occurred is his personal
imagine a candidate saying, “I think everyone. transformation from a leader into a
things are pretty doggone good exactly • Transformation is giving universal manager… making only incremental
as they are. If you vote for me, I health care coverage to everyone for changes or just maintaining the
promise that nothing will change”? free, if necessary. status quo.
Truth is, even incumbents and what Of course, these things and many
we now call “the establishment more have been discussed and debated WHAT CAN WE LEARN?
candidates” feel it necessary to ad nauseam during the past year. But In your business, you most likely
promise change on some level. have you noticed the transitions that function as the leader and the manager.

GEARS May 2016 47

1tschetter 516.indd 47 5/2/16 9:38 AM


Manage Things But Lead People

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.

48 GEARS May 2016

1tschetter 516.indd 48 5/2/16 9:38 AM


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© 2012 Gears Magazine

gears toolbox.indd 2 4/1/14 9:34 AM


gears aad412.indd 2 5/9/12 10:02 AM
by Jim Cathcart

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

50 GEARS May 2016

1chatcart 5-16.indd 50 5/2/16 9:38 AM


In Great Britain they have a of the key points for you here: All else is counting on me to do my part
different tune and some popular successful people are self motivated. well. This inspires me and refreshes
lyrics, no doubt written by one of In fact, what makes you successful is my desire to do right by them.
the soldiers: the ability to get yourself to do what In my office, we have our com-
needs to be done, when it needs to be pany’s mission — To Make People’s
Rev-eil-lee! Rev-eil-lee is sounding
done, even when you don’t feel like Lives Better… Profitably — proudly
The bugle calls you from your sleep;
doing it. displayed above the copier where
it is the break of day.
That last part — “even when you all of us will szee it each day. At
You've got to do your duty
don’t feel like doing it” — is key. company meetings we remind our-
or you will get no pay. Everyone can motivate themselves selves how what we’re doing helps
Come, wake yourself, when they’re in the right mood or cir- make other people’s lives better.
rouse yourself out of your sleep cumstances. It’s when you’re feeling Keeping this in the front of your
And throw off the blankets lazy or out of sorts that it becomes mind will keep you focused on pleas-
and take a good peek at all difficult to focus on the task at hand. ing your customers and taking care of
The bright signs of day are here, So what do you do to motivate your fellow workers.
so get up and do not delay. yourself? What convinces you to One of my friends keeps his
break the inertia of inaction or wait family’s photo on his desk with a
Get Up! for yet another alarm to buzz Reveilee question: Will what I’m doing now
Or-der-ly officer is on his round! for you? How do you counteract your make them proud and keep them safe?
And if you're still a-bed tendency to delay action? Find out what it is that motivates
he will send you to the guard My friend, Robin Palmer, created you. Learn to become more and more
And then you'll get a drill an alarm clock with soft vocal self-motivated. The more you can
and that will be a bitter pill: recordings instead of harsh alarms. motivate yourself without the need of
She calls it MyWakeUpCall and users a wakeup call from someone else, the
So be up when he comes, rave about how much better it is to more successful you’ll become.
be up when he comes, wake up to encouraging ideas instead
Like a soldier at his post, of rattling buzzers.
a soldier at his post, all ser-ene. When it comes to getting yourself
started, one thing many find helpful
I find the British lyrics more is to remember why you’re doing
motivating. But notice that, in it. Having your goal or purpose in
both cases, it’s someone else who’s writing in a prominent place often
motivating you to rise and start helps renew the initiative needed.
the day. Once we’re on our own, I start each day by reviewing my
especially as business owners or goals and scanning my many projects
managers, we have to learn to to see which ones will advance me
motivate ourselves. It’s you and me the most. But I’m careful not to get
who must get ourselves out of bed, bogged down in the projects before Jim Cathcart is the founder of
off our duffs, on our feet, out of the reviewing the goals. The projects only Cathcart.com and author of 17 books.
shade, and into the heat of our careers. matter to the degree that they advance He’s a strategic advisor for ATRA and
I’ve written an entire book on me toward my goals. a regular contributor to GEARS. For
this subject — The Self Motivation I also review my key relationships free access to short video messages
Handbook — but I’ll summarize one and responsibilities to remind me who from Jim, go to Thrive15.com/acorn.

GEARS May 2016 51

1chatcart 5-16.indd 51 5/2/16 9:39 AM


SHOP PROFILE

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

52 GEARS May 2016

1shop profile516.indd 52 5/2/16 8:21 AM


: But somehow Dave managed
to build a terrific following in his
“Baloney! There are always people
who make it through good times and
community. “After 37 years, I’m proud bad times… there’ll always be ups
to say we’ve built a heck of a reputation. and downs in the economy… you do
We’re working on generations; we’re your own thing, stay positive, and stay
starting to see the grandchildren of our proactive.
original customers bring their cars to us.” “We’re in what I like to call a
Dave was a transmission tech ‘negative business’; we’re right behind
himself when he opened the doors to lawyers and dentists… a place where
Dusty’s. “I got out of high school and people don’t want to come… they
took a job washing cars at a nearby car come in because they have to. I think
dealership.” From there he worked his Dusty’s is successful because we’ve
way up, changing oil and handling light learned to turn coming here into a
repairs. positive experience for our customers.”
In the mid-70s, Dave took a job It sounds like a familiar refrain…
at another dealership as a technician. one that’s been shown effective time
“We were all working flat rate, and and time again on these pages.
I realized that nobody wanted to
touch these ‘mysterious’ automatic Meet Matt
transmissions. So I decided to specialize Matt Duste got his first taste of the
in them because that meant I got all the transmission business when he was still
transmission work.” a small boy. In fact, he’s the one who
“I opened Dusty’s in April, 1979. gave his father the idea for their very
Back then it was a two-bay shop (no unusual sign (more about that later).
lifts!). We now have 8 lifts; we enlarged After high school Matt joined
the shop by 2000 square feet about 20 the Navy and became an air framer,
years ago. And last year we bought the specializing in working on safety
property next door, which doubled our equipment. “I was in the highest level
acreage and gave us about another 1200 of maintenance in the Navy: I-Level. I
square feet of shop space.” worked on ejection seats.” An important
The two shops are actually joined job; one where “it has to work.”
together, so they appear to be one One thing he learned in the Navy
building. Dusty’s now covers the entire was the importance of processes and
block. procedures; something he’s brought
Dave credits Dusty’s success in with him into Dusty’s; it’s a skill that’s
part to his love of the business: “We helped them maintain uniformity in the
spend about 70% of our waking hours jobs they do, no matter who’s working
in our businesses, so we might as well on the car.
look forward to it. You have to stay After the Navy, Matt went
upbeat: When things get slow, people to college. “I originally wanted
blame politics or the guy down the to become an airline pilot; I got
street… my commercial certs,” he says. It’s always service with a smile at Dusty’s

GEARS May 2016 53

1shop profile516.indd 53 5/2/16 8:21 AM


Dusty’s Transmissions: Maintaining Reputation Through Transition

A clean and comfortable waiting area


Proudly displaying the American Flag greets each customer at Dusty’s At Dusty's, it's all about team work!

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

1shop profile516.indd 54 5/2/16 8:21 AM


Crew L to R: Matt Duste, Tony Duste, Hurley Morehead, George Morehead aka “Red Beard”, Vince Haas, Dan Swisher, Dave Duste

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

1shop profile516.indd 55 5/2/16 8:21 AM


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Thursday
October 27
TECHNICAL TRACK
8:00am - 9:30am 11:00am - 12:30pm
MAF Sensor Tests You Should Programming: The Process, the
Know Products and the Problems
Presented by Dan Marinucci (With Solutions)!
The MAF sensor is a vital input to the
ECM or PCM; it influences overall Presented by Keith Clark
engine performance. However, it Brief review of J2534 equipment
also affects transmission operation. requirements and general
Some failing MAF sensors trick information:
technicians because they don’t 1. The process: Do’s
set any valid DTCs. What’s more, a and don’ts and Habits of a
failing sensor may complicate diagnosis by causing successful programmer.
transmission performance symptoms! 2. The products: A realistic review of J2534
In this class, Dan shows attendees several techniques aftermarket hardware and the pro’s, cons as well as the
for checking a suspect MAF sensor. These include using expenses involved.
a voltmeter, scan tool and oscilloscope. He also shows 3. The problems: A look at specific, problematic
how to distinguish between a failing sensor and an air- units to program with solutions.
flow restriction. 4. The solution resources: What’s available in
the aftermarket as resolution centers and resources.

9:30am - 11:00am 1:30pm - 3:00pm


Hybrid Inverters, Motor- ATF: Choose Your Fluid Like You
Generators, and Transaxles Would Choose Your Friends
Presented by Jack Rosebro Presented by Scott Halley
Hybrid powertrains can add
No transmission is complete
considerable complexity to the
without fluid and in this
modern transaxle. Many hybrid
talk we will look at some
transaxles incorporate one or more
of the latest trends in ATF
three-phase AC motor-generators,
development. We will look at
which are driven by a separate
topics including: transmission
component called an inverter. In
development and the impact on fluid performance
this course, we will explore system operation, known
requirements, minerals and synthetics, viscosity trends,
good data, component failure, and give examples
and what can happen if fluid is misapplied.
of diagnostic procedures used on some of the more
common hybrid transaxles.
3:00pm - 4:30pm 4:30pm - 6:00pm
Transmission Diagnostics Nissan/Jatco CVT’s
On-Demand Presented by Mike Souza
A look at the new JF015E in
Presented by Sean Boyle comparison to the earlier
As we all know, transmissions Nissan CVT’s. It’s important to
are loaded with complicated understand how they work. We’ll
hydraulic and electrical also cover the internal components
components that can fail in from top to bottom and compare
various ways. For example, them to the CVT unit. We’ll cover some of the failures
solenoids can fail electrically, you can expect to see both internally and externally.
mechanically and/or hydraulically We’ll cover some of those fixes and some of the rebuild
and give a host of symptoms; important input sensors techniques to look out for.
can provide false information to a computer without
setting DTCs and wreak havoc on transmission
operation. So how do we know if these components
are working correctly? In this seminar I will cover
diagnostics using basic tools that are found in every
shop, but I will also provide advanced diagnostic

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.

SATURDAY MANAGEMENT TRACK


Saturday
October 29 cont’d
MANAGEMENT TRACK
9:00am - 10:15am 10:30am - 12:00pm
The Generational Workforce and The Revenue Growth Mindset: How
You You Think is How You Sell & Grow!
Presented by Maylan & Chase Newton Presented by Alex Goldfayne
Some think that today’s young Your customers think more
workforce is unmotivated, lazy, has positively about your company
no work ethic, and is unwilling to than you do. That’s because
learn! they’re benefiting from your
Is this how you feel when working products and services while you
with your younger employees? Is deal with staff issues, customer
it all their fault … is it the generation problems, and, in general, and, like most business
… or is it you! Join us as we explore leaders, racing from one fire to another. Join Alex
communication, expectations Goldfayn, CEO of the Evangelist Marketing Institute, for
and motivation in today’s multi- a powerful, highly interactive discussion about how to
generational shop environment. grow your transmission repair shop by changing how
This seminar is presented by a baby you think about your value. Alex will detail how to think
boomer father and a millennial son bigger, communicate with your market aggressively, and
team. Hear it from each generation. focus on your value, emotionally, and compellingly as
your customers describe you. The net result – the only
important outcome – is dramatic revenue growth, fast!

I D AY, O C TOBER 28 FRID AY, O C


FR TOBER 28
12PM
HEON 7PM
ATR A LUNC Y CO CKTA IL
SPONSORED B RECEPTIO
N
HOSTED BY
Introducing

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

MGMT 3:30pm - 4:30pm Successful Thinking - Rodger Bland


4:45pm - 6pm Measuring Up to Mobile - Danny Sanchez
6pm - 7:30pm ATRA Welcome Reception

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

12pm - 2pm ATRA Luncheon - sponsored by Raybestos


2pm - 7pm Trade Show
4pm - 6pm ATRA Chapter President’s Meeting
7pm - 9pm Transtar Cocktail Reception

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

9am - 10:30am R&R 101 - Anthony Pagnotta


STUDENT 10:30am - 12pm Diagnostics 101 - Jarad Warren
12:30pm - 2pm Transmissions 101 - Bill Brayton

12pm - 5pm Trade Show


3pm - 4pm ATRA Longtimer’s Meeting

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.

Big R/ReMaTecUSA shares one large exhibit floor


with ATRA’s Powertrain EXPO
on Saturday!

ATRA Powertrain Expo Big R/ReMaTecUSA Show


Exhibit Hall Days Exhibit Hall Days
Friday, October 28: 2pm-7pm Saturday, October 29: 12pm-5pm
Saturday, October 29: 12pm-5pm Sunday, October 30: 12pm-5pm
Registration Options
TRADE TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT COMPLETE
SHOW PASS CONFERENCE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE
Friday-Saturday Thursday-Sunday Thursday-Sunday Thursday-Sunday
(Oct. 28 - 29) (Oct. 27 - 30) (Oct. 27 - 30) (Oct. 27 - 30)

Access to Technical Seminars

Access to Management Seminars

Expo Tech Manual

Expo Tech Program CD

Expo Management worksheets


with leather binder

Expo Management
Program CD

Coffee Breaks

Friday Luncheon

Friday Cocktail Reception

Friday & Saturday Trade Show*


Audio recordings of both the
Technical & Management
seminars

As low as As low as As low as As low as


$20 $345 $345 $395
BEST
VALUE!
*Powertrain Expo and Big R/ReMaTec share the same exhibit hall on Saturday

Thank You to our Sponsors!


Frequently Asked Questions
Can I register at the door?
Yes. The following are the dates and times for On-Site 4 Easy Ways to Register
Registration: Call: (800) 428-8489 or (805) 604-2000
Thursday, October 27: 7am - 5pm
Friday, October 28: 7am - 5pm
Online: www.powertrainexpo.com
Saturday, October 29: 8am - 5pm Send Reg
form by fax: (805) 988-6761
ATRA Powertrain Expo Registration
What are the hotel rates? Send Reg 2400 Latigo Ave
form by mail:
Hotel Room Rate Cut-off Date Oxnard, CA 93030
Paris Hotel & Casino $149* 10/4/2016
(877) 603-4389
Registration Information
Bally’s Hotel & Casino* $129* 10/4/2016 Enrollment is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Seating is limited
(877) 603-4389 by room size. Seminars start promptly at their scheduled
*A Daily Resort fee of $29 will be charged. time. Arrive early to be sure of good seating, and to meet with
instructors and other seminar attendees.
Does ATRA make hotel reservations or is it Recording is not permitted.
included in the cost of registration?
All attendees make their own hotel accommodations directly
with the Paris Hotel or the Bally’s Hotel by calling (877) 603-
What’s Included
4389. Mention ATRA to receive your discount room rate. Room Complete Conference: admission to all technical & management
reservations are not included with your conference registration. seminars Thursday through Sunday, Friday Luncheon & Cocktail
Reception, coffee breaks, Friday & Saturday ATRA Trade Show
admission, Saturday & Sunday Big R/ReMaTec Trade Show
What are the registration cut-off dates for Expo? admission, Expo Technical Manual, Technical seminar program CD
The early registration cut-off date at the discount price is and Management worksheet materials. Audio recordings of both
9/2/16. The cut-off date for all pre-registration is 10/7/16. Any the Technical and Management seminars will be available to all
registrations made after 10/7/16 will need to be done on-site at Complete Conference attendees after the Expo.
the event.
Technical or Management Conference: admission to either the
Did you receive my registration? Am I Technical or Management seminars Thursday through Sunday,
registered? Friday Luncheon & Cocktail Reception, coffee breaks, Friday &
Your confirmation will automatically be emailed to you Saturday ATRA Trade Show admission, Saturday & Sunday Big R/
immediately after your registration is processed. Please ReMaTec Trade Show admission, the Expo Technical Manual,
contact ATRA at (800) 428-8489 if you have not received your Technical seminar program CD or Management worksheet
confirmation. materials.

Trade Show: admission to the ATRA trade show on Friday and


Does my guest need to register? Saturday. And the Big R / ReMaTec trade show on Saturday &
Yes, everyone attending the seminars or trade show must have Sunday.
an official badge and registration - except children in strollers.
Spouses and children of conference registrants may be eligible to
receive free trade show access. Please call for details. Cancellation Policy
All cancellation requests needing to be made after 10/1/16 will be
Can I change one of my paid registrations from subject to a $50 cancellation fee.
one person to another?
Yes, you can switch the name on one or more of your registrations
before 10/7/16. Please call (800) 428-8489 with any changes
you’d like to make. Any changes needing to be made after 10/7/16
will need to be done on-site at the event.

What if I want to attend more than one seminar in


a session?
Audio recordings of both the Technical and Management seminars
will be available to all Complete Conference attendees after the
Expo.
Registration Form
October 27 - 30, 2016 • Las Vegas, NV
Company Name ATRA Account Number

Contact Person: (will receive all correspondence)

Address

City State Zip

Country Email Address

Area Code Phone No. Fax No.

( ) ( )
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

Before Sept 2nd Sept. 2nd - Oct. 7th ALL


REGISTRATION FEES Qty Member Non Mem Member Non Mem ON-SITE SUBTOTAL

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

Card Number____________________________________________________ Expiration Date Security Code

Print Name on Card___________________________________________________________ Signature___________________________________________


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

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

Adapt-A-Case T-47786AC in use

Adapt-A-Case has just released a


lifting tool for the 6L45/50, 6L80/90, Dave Riccio, Owner - Tri-City Transmission Service, Inc.

and 8L45/90. Better Business Bureau serving


The new lifting tool threads into the Central, Northern and Western
inside of the output shaft, allowing you Arizona (BBB) announced that Tri-
to lift and lower the output carrier/shaft City Transmission Service, Inc. of
assembly safely and easily into place. Tempe, Arizona, was the recipient of
For more, visit Adapt-A-Case on its 2016 BBB Torch Award for Ethics
line at www.Adapt-A-Case.com. in Category 1 (1-10 employees). The
award was presented during their 15th
Superior Introduces annual dinner, sponsored by Wells
New Honda Tool Fargo. Precision International now has
The BBB Torch Awards for Ethics overhaul kits, banner kits, and master
recognize firms whose business kits available for the AS69RC. These
practices and related activities transmissions appear in 2013-up Dodge
exemplify BBB’s mission and 3500, 4500, and 5500 trucks equipped
principles to keep the marketplace fair with a 6.7L diesel engine.
and honorable. Overhaul Kit:
“These winners join a community of K78900H (with pistons)
trustworthy businesses that understand K78900HX (without pistons)
how important trust, transparency, and Banner Kit:
integrity are to business success,” said K7800HW/O (with pistons)
Superior’s new Matthew Fehling, BBB president/CEO. K7800HXW/O (without pistons)
K0110 Honda/Acura “It’s a great honor to be recognized Master Kit:
Large Collar Puller for our business ethics,” says Tri-City K7800H (with pistons)
kit is designed to shop owner Dave Riccio. “But we don’t K7800HX (without pistons)
safely and easily do it for awards or recognition. We The following components are
remove the secondary shaft bearing and operate in an ethical manner because available separately:
oil collar without damaging the bearing, that’s the way we like to be treated. It’s Filter — 78575G
collar, or bellhousing. If you work on the right way to do business. Although Pan Gasket — 78702X
Honda or Acura transmissions, this is a I can’t lie: Receiving this award feels Metal-Clad Seals
must have tool for your workstation or pretty good!” Pump — 78259
toolbox. BBB’s Torch Awards for Ethics Rear — 78147
This new kit lets you remove the is an annual program that gains Manual Shaft — 48204
bearing and collar in just under 5 public recognition for businesses Bushings — 78888
minutes! The puller fits the BCLA who maintain a solid commitment to For more, visit Precision on line at
family found in 4-cylinder, 5 speed operating ethically. www.transmissionkits.com.
GEARS May 2016 71

1PINS 516.indd 71 4/28/16 3:20 PM


POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
Sonnax Introduces TransTec Introduces excited to bring back our Quality
New Input Shaft and New Transmission Kits Torque Converters to better service the
Piston Kit for Dodge 727 region throughout Washington, Idaho,
Montana and Alaska. We supplied
a local branch for years before the
acquisition of Axiom in 2007.”
Longtime industry veterans Skip
Ostrander will manage the branch
while John Smith will be the technical
and product manager.
For many years, PDQ has been
6T40/45 Gen II 12-Up Step Transmission supplying customers with competitive
TransTec has just announced the pricing on all the major brands — Borg
introduction of several new kits to their Warner, Raybestos, Transtec, and Seal
Sonnax is pleased to announce the lineup: Aftermarket — in their rebuilding
introduction of their new high capacity, The first two kits service the 722.6 kits, along with Transgo, Superior,
Smart-Tech® input shaft and piston kit 5-speed — TransTec® overhaul kit Sonnax and Alto performance packs, to
for the Dodge 727 transmission. 2695 for the 1995-01, and kit 2696 name few.
Based on the legendary Sonnax covering 2002-on. These transmissions Says Hicks, “We look forward on
one-piece, forged shaft design, the are used in Chrysler and Dodge, building upon those past success and
new Smart-Tech® kit 22119B-02K Freightliner, Jaguar, and Jeep vehicles. develop new and lasting relationships
increases direct clutch capacity with Overhaul kits 2693 and 2694 as PDQ provides all of our regions with
no modifications required to original service the 722.9 7-speed units. quality parts, unsurpassed customer
steels, backing plate thickness, Two other new kits fit the 2012- service and more choices than ever to
retaining ring, or OE clutch clearances. up Kappa CVT, used in Hyundai, Kia/ fill all of our customer needs.”
One-piece design eliminates weak Naza vehicles: DP2680 comes without For more, visit PDQ on line at
connection between input shaft and pistons; DP2681 includes bonded www.PDQParts.com.
forward clutch hub. pistons.
Longer direct clutch hub and thinner The final two kits introduced this GammaTech Partners
billet aluminum piston combine to hold month are for the 6T40/45 Gen II step with AE Tools
one extra, OE-thickness friction plate. transmission, used in 2012-up Buick,
The new kit replaces 1967—'89 Chevrolet, Holden, Opel/Vauxhall,
shafts with two sealing rings. Roewe, and Wuling vehicles. Kit
Visit www.sonnax.com for more 2689 comes without pistons; kit 2690
details. includes pistons.
All of these kits are in stock and
New Diesel Multi-Plate available for immediate delivery.
Torque Converter Kit For more, visit TransTec on line at
www.TransTec.com.

PDQ Transmission GammaTech Computer Corp.


Parts Opens New is pleased to announce its latest
Branch in Spokane partnership with AE Tools, a provider
of OEM-level diagnostic solutions and
dealer-level support for aftermarket
repair shops, heavy-duty repair
facilities, and automotive locksmiths.
Transmission Specialties of Aston, Together, the two companies will
PA is pleased to introduce their new provide GammaTech's award-winning
Ford 5R110 Diesel Multi-Plate torque DURABOOK line of rugged mobile
converter kit. This kit has both the 6- computing solutions to the demanding
and 8-bolt pattern cover to give you the automotive aftermarket repair-shop
option of only stocking one kit. industry.
For details on this new kit or their PDQ Transmission Parts Inc. has Among the first GammaTech
other Multi-Plate kits for the 47RE, just opened a new branch in Spokane, products offered by AE Tools is the
48RE, 68RFE, GM Duramax, and WA to help serve the northwest area of DURABOOK SA14 rugged notebook
Ford 4R100, contact Transmission the country. with high-definition 14" LCD display
Specialties at kenktsi@comcast.net or According to John Hicks, president and Intel i7 processor. It features a
call (610) 485-9110. and CEO of PDQ, “We are very battery life of up to 11 hours — long
72 GEARS May 2016

1PINS 516.indd 72 4/28/16 3:20 PM


enough even for those overtime days u-joint locations for rear wheel drive So, if you need landing page
— and assorted wireless connectivity passenger cars; 2-wheel drive cars, content, web site content, or marketing
for convenient mobile use out on the light and medium duty trucks; and content of any type, see our web site at
shop floor. 4-wheel drive and all-wheel drive www.automotivecoachingandtraining.
AE Tools is focused on bringing cars, light and medium duty trucks. It com, call The ACT Group, or fill out
OEM-diagnostic solutions to the also provides application listings for our “Contact Us” request form to get
automotive aftermarket with on-car passenger cars, light and medium duty Jennifer to call you!
support. It is a need that has only trucks, and heavy duty trucks.
intensified over the last decade, as “The SKF Universal Joints catalog Russ Bock Joins
the aftermarket industry has shifted is a great tool for those working with Elite as Business
to include more and more computer- u-joints on a consistent basis,” said Don Development Coach
centric vehicles. OEM scan tools and McEntee, vice president of business Elite has announced
service information are necessary to development and marketing, SKF that Russ Bock has
properly diagnose and repair such USA, vehicle service market. “Not only joined the company
vehicles. AE Tools has stepped in and is it a parts look-up reference tool, it’s as its newest business
filled the void by providing the needed also a resource for all things u-joints development coach.
products and expertise to make them — location references, application In his new role,
work properly. information, dimensions, related parts Bock will use his 45
GammaTech has a well-earned listings, and more. Ultimately, it will years of industry experience to provide
reputation and a long history in help you do your job better and more one-on-one business-building guidance
producing computers for the rugged efficiently.” to shop owners throughout the U.S.
market. It has been named a winner in The updated SKF U-joint product “I couldn’t be more excited to be
Government Security News' Homeland line provides broader coverage as able to work with someone like Russ,
Security Awards in the Best Rugged well as an expanded range of the high who not only had remarkable success
Computers category multiple times. performance Brute Force line. The as a shop owner, but who is principle-
For more information, visit expansion offers more part numbers for centered and truly enjoys helping
AE Tools at www.aetools.us, and better coverage of automotive, truck, people.” said Bob Cooper, president
GammaTech at www.GammaTechUSA. agricultural and industrial applications. of Elite.
com. To download the new SKF For more, visit Elite on line at
universal joints catalog, visit www. www.EliteWorldwide.com.
New U-Joint Catalog vsm.skf.com and click on “Catalogs,
Announces Expanded data and publications.” For more OSG USA, INC. Acquires
SKF U-Joint Listings information about the expanded line of AMAMCO Tool & Supply
SKF universal joints, visit www.skfusa.
com/ujoints.

ACT! Group Presents


Jennifer Filzen
as Its Newest Member
The ACT
Group welcomes
Jennifer Filzen OSG USA, INC., a leading
from Rock manufacturer of taps, drills, end
Star Marketing mills, dies, and indexable cutting
aboard as its tools, announced that it has acquired
newest associate AMAMCO, an ISO 9001:2008 and
vendor. Jennifer AS9100C registered company that
brings years of experience as a content manufactures high-quality, custom
writer through many automotive carbide tools for manufacturers in the
facilities across the country, and now, aerospace, automotive, and medical
more specifically, to the ACT Group! industries.
In conjunction with the launch of Not sure what content writing The company markets its products
its expanded u-joint product offering, is? Think about when you were asked for numerous industries, including
SKF has introduced a new universal for content or written information automotive, aerospace, medical, and
joints catalog for passenger car, about you and your business when your die mold. Advising AMAMCO Tool on
light, medium and heavy duty truck web site was being built; that’s content the acquisition was BellMark Partners,
applications (part #457285). writing! And now think about the time LLC, located in Boston, MA.
The SKF U-joint catalog provides it took you to come up with it. Jennifer Visit www.osgtool.com for more
detailed line drawings indicating makes this process easy and affordable! information.
GEARS May 2016 73

1PINS 516.indd 73 4/28/16 3:20 PM


POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
Men Are Losing Interest Autologic Diagnostics SERVICE-EDU Launches
in Manual Transmissions Launches the Advanced Training
Faster than Women AssistMobile App SERVICE-EDU is a new training
program for professional automotive
service and repair technicians from
four premier OE automotive parts
manufacturers: Gates, MAHLE, NGK
Spark Plugs, and Timken. Training will
be held at regional Universal Technical
Institute (UTI) campus locations across
the United States.
Autologic Diagnostics, a worldwide These well-respected name brands
provider of the first aftermarket have joined forces to offer training on
automotive diagnostic solution that component and system failures and
At what rate is “manual drift” enables repair shops to identify faults how technicians can diagnose and
occurring in the American auto and repair cars faster, announced replace worn parts. Collectively, these
industry, and is there a difference today the launch of its AssistMobile, four companies supply the aftermarket
between the rate of manual which complements its recently with tens of thousands of SKUs,
transmission use between men and introduced Autologic Assist solution. representing 25 different types of parts
women? Swapalease.com, the nation’s Launched in mid-2015, Autologic in nine product categories.
largest car lease marketplace, recently Assist serves aftermarket repair shops, Each manufacturer’s training
analyzed over 50,000 driver records particularly those focused on complex courses, focused on their unique
from its marketplace dating back to European cars. It spans a suite of category of expertise, include
2012 to uncover some interesting capabilities that joins data resources classroom and hands-on instruction
trends. and superior diagnostic tools on one on proper system troubleshooting,
Manual drift is a phrase coined screen with real-time access to a team advanced service techniques, and
by Swapalease.com executives that of master technicians. component replacement.
addresses the slow sunset of interest in Autologic Assist integrates SERVICE-EDU is being produced
manual transmissions found in today’s knowledge and service from experts that by The Marx Group, a team of
cars. According to analysis conducted possess significant OEM experience aftermarket experts that has more than
recently by the company, the number with innovative software and a multi- 32 years of experience in developing
of manual transmission vehicles driven functional device (AssistPlus), helping marketing and other programs for
by Americans has dropped roughly ensure vehicle issues are diagnosed suppliers.
22% since 2012. correctly, the first time. SERVICE-EDU will kick off
Equally interesting, the rate of drift With the new AssistMobile app, the first year of its two-day training
isn’t occurring at the same pace for Autologic Assist customers have programs April 29-30 at the UTI
men and women. In its analysis of over another way to access the company’s campus in Avondale, Arizona; May
50,000 vehicle records dating back highly advanced technical support team 13-14 at the UTI Dallas/Fort Worth
to 2012, the rate of use is declining from any iOS or Android device. Users campus in Irving, Texas; Sept. 16-17 at
for both genders, but is happening can download the app via app stores. the UTI campus in Lisle, Illinois; and
at a faster pace for men compared to AssistMobile lets users enter fault Oct. 21-22 at the NASCAR Technical
women. codes and provides ways to assess Institute campus in Mooresville,
In fact, the percentage of men repairs, along with one-touch access North Carolina. A fifth event at the
driving manual transmission vehicles to contacting tech support, all from the UTI campus in Rancho Cucamonga,
has dropped from 85.4% in 2012 mobile device. California will be announced later.
to 81.2% in 2015. As a result, the A key feature of the new For more information about
percentage for women has responded AssistMobile is its Vehicle SERVICE-EDU, and for registration
by adjusting from 14.6% in 2012 to Identification Number (VIN) barcode details, visit www.service-edu.com.
18.8% in 2015. scan capability, which allows users to
Both genders overall are driving scan a VIN barcode with the integrated
fewer manual transmissions during camera on their smartphones. Once
that time, but since the numbers for captured, the app automatically records
men are dropping faster, it has caused the VIN and takes users to the next
the percentage to actually increase for prompt screen to input additional
women. vehicle details.
For more information about For more information, visit www.
Swapalease.com or how to exit your autologic.com or follow the company
lease early, call 866-SWAPNOW or on Twitter @autologicassist and
visit www.swapalease.com. on LinkedIn.
74 GEARS May 2016

1PINS 516.indd 74 4/28/16 3:20 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.

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GEARS May 2016 75

1shoppers 516new.indd 75 5/2/16 8:25 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
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76 GEARS May 2016

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WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED
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GEARS May 2016 77

1shoppers 516new.indd 77 5/2/16 8:25 AM


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

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

Why buy foreign,


When you can buy
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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

1classfd-516.indd 78 5/2/16 8:51 AM


Don't Miss the ATRA SEMINAR Near You!

2016 ATRA TECHNICAL SEMINARS


May 7 - Denver, CO May 21 - Des Moines, IA May 28 - Vancouver, BC
800.428.8489
June 4 - Tulsa, OK Aug 6 - San Antonio, TX Aug 13 - Albuquerque, NM
http://members.atra.com
Aug 20 - Portland, OR Aug 27 - Anaheim, CA Sep 10 - Chicago, IL MEMBERS.ATRA.COM
ATRA'S POWERTRAIN EXPO 2016 • October 27th - 30th

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.

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

Name _____________________________________ Phone _______________________________


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

GEARS May 2016 79

1classfd-516.indd 79 5/2/16 8:51 AM


ADVERTISERS

NamePage NamePage

ATRA�����������������������������������������������������������������������������������������31, 49 Precision International��������������������������������������������������������������������� 15


members.atra.com www.transmissionkits.com

ATRA Seminars�������������������������������������������������������������������������42, 43 Rostra Precision Controls Inc.��������������������������������������������������������� 35


members.atra.com www.rostratransmission.com

ATRA Webinars������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 29 Seal Aftermarket Products�������������������������������������������������������������� 21


members.atra.com www.sealaftermarketproducts.com

ETE Reman��������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 5 Slauson Transmission Parts������������������������������������������������������������ 27


www.etereman.com www.slauson.com

EVT Parts������������������������������������������������������������������������������������ OBC Sonnax Industries�������������������������������������������������������������������������� IFC


www.evtparts.com www.sonnax.com

GearSpeed�������������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 17 Superior Transmission Parts������������������������������������������������������������� 7


www.gearspeedpartsstore.com www.superior-transmission.com

Jasper Engines & Transmissions�������������������������������������������������� IBC Sussex Auto Parts Ltd.�������������������������������������������������������������������� 41


www.jasperengines.com www.sussexautos.co.uk

Mid States Transmission Parts�������������������������������������������������������� 11 Transmission Specialties����������������������������������������������������������������� 33


mstp.net www.transmission-specialties.com

Nextep Funding������������������������������������������������������������������������������� 41 Transtar Industries, Inc.������������������������������������������������������������������� 23


nextepfunding.com www.transtar1.com

North American Powertrain Components���������������������������������������� 13 TransTec By CORTECO�������������������������������������������������������������������� 3


www.napcltd.ca www.transtec.com

PHILLIPS 66 Spectrum Corporation����������������������������������������������� 19 Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc.�������������������������������������� 9


www.smartblend.com www.wittrans.com

Precision European Inc������������������������������������������������������������������� 79


www.PEIus.com

ATRA Supplier Members


Reserve your free table top display for the
2016

ATRA 2016 technical seminar series today!


Call (805) 604-2018

See ATRA Seminar Schedule


information on pages 42-43 and at:
members.atra.com

80 GEARS May 2016

listo516.indd 80 5/2/16 10:50 AM


Jasper May2016.indd 1 5/2/16 9:15 AM
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