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GEARS FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2008 BUYERS GUIDE ISSUE

TM

for the transmission rebuilding industry

BUYER'S GUIDE ISSUE

TransTec kits...
Support Before
& After the Sale

JANUARY/
FEBRUARY 2008
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GEARS FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

January/February 2008
PHONE (805) 604-2000 FAX (805) 604-2006
TABLE OF CONTENTS

Chief Executive Officer Dennis Madden


Managing Editor Rodger Bland Clearing Up a Few Points on the The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild 4x4 Low Range Will Not Engage
Technical Director Lance Wiggins F4A/F5A Transaxles Page 8 At Times
Advertising Frank Pasley Page 4 Page 30
Senior Designer Jeanette Troub



Contributing Editors Steve Bodofsky,
Thom Tschetter SPECIAL INTEREST & TECHNICAL
ATRA Technical Staff Bill Brayton 4 Clearing Up a Few Points on the F4A/F5A Transaxles
Mike Brown
Steve Garrett by David Skora
Pete Huscher 8 The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild by Lance Wiggins
Randall Schroeder
Dave Skora 20 TransTec Kits: Support Before and After the Sale
Director of Membership & IT Svc Kelly Hilmer
by Steve Bodofsky
Seminars & Convention Manager Vanessa Velasquez 24 WHATS WORKING: Somebody get the phone! by Rodger Bland
Bookstore Manager Shaun Velasquez
28 MAKING IT WORK: Get em in the Door: Where to Begin
by Dennis Madden
30 Keep Those Trannys Rolling: 4x4 Low Range Will
The views expressed in this publication should not necessarily be interpreted as
the official policy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA). Not Engage At Times by Pete Huscher
Publication of product information or any advertising does not imply recommenda- 34 A Look at the GM 6L80; Part 1 by Steve Garrett
tion by ATRA.
GEARS, a publication of ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, 44 PLAYING TO WIN: A FREE GIFT:
is published for the betterment of the transmission industry and is distributed Whats the Catch? by Thom Tschetter
nine times per year. No part of this issue may be reproduced without prior written
permission of the publisher. Gears is distributed to members of the transmis- 46 Keeping Up: Translating Engine Vacuum Measurements
sion industry in the United States, Canada, ATRA Members in Mexico & Europe,
and related automotive industry firms and individually. Send changes of address
by Steve Bodofsky
to Gears in care of ATRA. Subscriptions are available by contacting Gears 52 Keeping Up: Understanding the Slide-Bump Shift
in care of ATRA.
by Lance Wiggins
Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full liability for all content of
advertisements printed and also assume full responsibility for any claims arising 56 Dont Forget the Benefit! by Steve Bodofsky
therefrom against the publisher. The publisher reserves the unqualified right to
reject any advertising copy as it deems appropriate, with or without cause. 58 From the Tech Director: Keeping Up by Lance Wiggins
Gears is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard 59 Transmission Identification Charts
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
courtesy of Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc.
advice or other expert assistance, is required, the services of a competent profes- 82 2008 Buyer's Guide Listing
sional person should be sought from a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted
by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers. 141 In the Trenches: A Visit to Long Island, and a Side Trip
Gears also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. to New Jersey by Bill Brayton
Gears considers all articles for publication that contribute positively to the
welfare of the transmission industry, and reserves the right to edit all articles it
publishes. If you would like to submit an article to Gears, include background
information about the author and a telephone number where he/she may be reached.
If you want submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.
DEPARTMENTS
Editorial and Business Offices 2 F ROM THE CEO: Taking Our
2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard CA 93030
Phone (805) 604-2000 Customers Back! by Dennis Madden
Fax (805) 604-2006
www.gearsmagazine.com 145 ATRANews
www.atra.com 148 Powertrain Industry News
www.atraonline.com
Publications Mail Agreement No. 40031403 153 Shoppers and Classified
On the Cover: TransTec kits...
Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to: 160 List of Advertisers Support Before & After the Sale
Station A , PO Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5 Page 20
Email: gears@atra.com

Issue #127 Printed in U.S.A. Copyright ATRA 2008


FROM THE CEO

Taking Our
Customers Back! by Dennis Madden

L
ast October we took the man- most participants seem to recognize chance youre going to be spend-
agement training program for that its not just about increasing sales, ing more time and money on the
ATRAs Powertrain Expo in an but also about fulfilling the customers repair than necessary.
entirely new direction. Rather than a needs. And to do that, you first have to 2. Since you dont understand the
cafeteria-style selection of disjointed identify what those needs are. why, you cant handle the repair
seminars to choose from, we created Thats why ATRA has commis- if it doesnt fit into a set of pre-
a single management track, with each sioned an independent research firm, identified conditions a target
seminar leading into the one that fol- to identify those needs through focus thats becoming harder and harder
lowed it, creating a cohesive training groups and surveys and report their to hit.
strategy. finding back to the industry. Well use
The program centered on the five their findings to help shape the content And what happens when the cus-
recurring traits possessed by all suc- of future GEARS articles and in devel- tomer realizes you cant solve his prob-
cessful shop owners, identified in oping the training sessions for this lem? You can bet he wont be singing
ATRAs Whats Working study of 2006 years Expo in Las Vegas. your praises to other potential custom-
and 2007 and highlighted in GEARS But theres more to this business ers. And he certainly wont be bringing
Magazine last spring. than getting customers in the door; you his car back the next time he has a
What are the five recurring traits of have to get them out again, too. And problem.
the most successful shop owners? when we ask ourselves do we know The fact is, nothing will put a busi-
1. Attitude; they like the transmission what we think we know? as it relates ness out of business faster that good
repair business and enjoy fixing to management and customers, its only marketing if that business cant live
cars. right that we ask ourselves the same up to the hype. So, if were going to
2. They have vision, plans and goals. question about our technical abilities work on developing new ways to bring
3. They have processes and systems right? And as the trade association for customers in the door, we need to make
in place. the transmission rebuilding industry sure were able to fix their cars once
4. They have the right people on their we have to ask, Are we doing the best they come in even if no one else
team. job possible of training people in this has identified that particular problem
5. Theyre people of action. industry, or is there a better way? before.
We know there are a lot of great Would the single-track training
During the Expo seminar pro- techs out there that can fix cars, but method do a better job of not only
gram, we announced a new internet do they know why the fix fixed the providing the fixes that everyone wants
forum where participants in the Whats problem? Based on the results of our and needs, as well as the basis for
Working sessions could continue shar- most recent certification tests, Im not those fixes? Could we do a better job
ing new ideas and projects they were so sure. of training technicians by using some
working on. The energy and excite- Some of you might be asking of the techniques that were so success-
ment of the people on the forum is Whats the difference? Who really ful in the Whats Working program? I
profound. cares why it fixed the car? Whats think so.
Based on the discussions in important is that its fixed! So, based on these issues and the
ATRAs Whats Working forum, weve Okay, fair enough. But that atti- success of Whats Working, were going
come up with the theme for this years tude relegates you to the position of to look into new ways of bringing tech-
Whats Working program: Get em in parts changer: You know how to fix nical training to this industry. Taking
the Door! the car, as long as someone else has our customers back is more than just
As the chatter on the forum sug- seen that exact problem, and come up getting em in the door; its also about
gests, shop owners are determined to with the repair. The problem with that getting em back out again. And thats
unearth new ways to meet the custom- is twofold: the focus of this years training and the
ers needs and increase sales; no great 1. Since youre basically throwing direction for the ATRA 2008 Powertrain
surprise there. Whats different is that parts at the problem, theres a good Industry Expo.

 GEARS January/February 2008


964 East Market St., Crawfordsville, IN 47933 Toll Free: 800-729-7763 Fax: 765-364-4576 Email: raypt@raybestospowertrain.com
* Raybestos Powertrain warrants that each electrical component manufactured or supplied by Raybestos Powertrain will be free from defects in material or factory workmanship for five
years or 50,000 miles from the date of sale. Please refer to Raybestos Powertrains website (www.raybestospowertrain.com) and catalog for details and limitations.
Clearing Up a Few
Points on the by David Skora

F4A/F5A Transaxles
T he F4A51 was first intro-
duced in the 1997 Mitsubishi
Diamanti; today it appears in
many Kia and Hyundai models. Its
also grown into a 5-speed with the addi-
tion of an underdrive section, and has
transformed into a rear wheel drive unit
for several truck and SUV applications.
No doubt its going to be with us for a
long time.
There isnt a lot of information
available on these units. Maybe thats
because its so similar to the 41TE, and
its very simple to work on. After you
rebuild one of these units, you could
probably do the next hundred with your
eyes closed. Very often, the only rea-
son for a rebuild is because the 2C or
L/R wave spring broke, destroying the
pump, or the rear cover and sealing ring
area wears out.
Unfortunately, a quality rebuild or
repair doesnt always result in these
units working properly. Remember, On most 4-speed
your customers expect you to solve transaxles, these
their transmission problems, no mat- two checkballs sit
ter what the cause. This is why its so between the valve
important to understand these units and body and case.
how theyre supposed to work. That
way, youll know how to deal with
them when they arent working. To
help you understand these units a little
better, heres a bit of background infor- Figure 1
mation on some of the more unusual
features of the F4A/F5A units. They dont seem to do anything. There clutch circuit. No doubt the factory
are no springs to hold them. All that engineers didnt want air getting into
Large Steel Checkballs holds them in place is gravity. the clutch circuits and possibly cause
The first thing to clear up is what These checkballs allow clutch inconsistent shifting.
the two large steel checkballs are for apply oil to exhaust from the circuit What would happen if you left
(figure 1). On most 4-speed transaxles, when the clutch is released. When the the checkballs out? Most likely youd
these two checkballs sit between the exhaust pressure drops off, oil stops experience a slight change in shift qual-
valve body and case. Later units and flowing past the checkball and it seats. ity during some conditions, and prob-
most 5-speeds only use one checkball. This prevents air from getting into the ably very little change during others.

 GEARS January/February 2008


Clearing Up a Few Points on the F4A51 Transaxle
While not of criti-
Since the solenoids are the same within each
cal importance, its
probably not a wise
unit, you can swap them around without any
decision to leave problem. And you can put them together
them out, or to add during a rebuild, without having to worry
springs behind the about which was which.
checkballs.

Shift Solenoids
The next interesting feature con-
cerns the shift solenoids. Each solenoid
modulates an individual clutch pack on
and off, just like a 41TE. Other than
that, there are some big differences:
Unlike a 41TE, all the shift
solenoids are identical.
These solenoids are normally engagements seem fine. To
open; they close when ener- troubleshoot this condition,
gized. one of the first tests would be
All 4-speeds have five sole- to check apply pressure on the low/
noids one for each hydrau- reverse and underdrive clutches. You
lic circuit. discover the underdrive clutch pressure
builds very slowly when cold. Since the
On the 5-speed units, an additional pressure does reach working pressure
Figure 2
solenoid controls the reduction band for and the delay goes away hot, you natu-
underdrive. And they borrowed an idea rally suspect a possible solenoid, valve you select drive, the meter should show
from the 41TE: These units use the low/ or computer command problem. the duty cycle command drop to zero.
reverse solenoid to operate the direct To check this problem, youll need By the time the command has dropped
clutch in the underdrive section. to connect a graphing meter or oscillo- to around 20%, the underdrive clutch
NOTE: A few Kia models have scope to the underdrive clutch solenoid. should be pretty close to fully engaged.
also added another solenoid to vary Dont waste your time with a DVOM; So back to the car with the delayed
mainline pressure. Unfortunately there not even one with a bar graph. Since cold forward engagement: With a your
is no technical information on that sole- the command sequence takes place in scope connected to the underdrive sole-
noid available at this time. less than second, a meter wont noid you can see that, when you select
Since the solenoids are the same be adequate to reveal the duty cycle drive, the duty cycle remains at 100%
within each unit, you can swap them change (figure 3). for 3 seconds and then drops to zero.
around without any problem. And you Remember, these solenoids are all After the car warms up for a few min-
can put them together during a rebuild, normally open, so when youre in park, utes, the command signal drops off
without having to worry about which the meter will show the underdrive immediately, and the transmission goes
was which (figure 2). solenoid commanded on 100%. When right into gear.
When cleaning the solenoids,
only blow air into the hole closest to
the solenoid body or the middle hole.
Never blow air into the farthest hole:
Youll end up trapping any dirt or con-
taminants inside the solenoid.
The most important point to remem-
ber about these solenoids is theyre nor-
mally open; that is, theyre open when
turned off and closed when energized.
Which means that, when one of these
solenoids is commanded off, its allow-
ing oil to flow to the clutch; when its
commanded on (energized), it shuts off
the flow of oil. Heres why this is an
important point to keep in mind:
Suppose a unit is having a slow
or delayed forward engagement when
cold. After it runs for a few minutes, Figure 3

 GEARS January/February 2008


This test proves that the problem
isnt in the solenoid or valve body;
its a computer system problem. Two
reasons have been found to cause this
specific problem: Either the neutral
switch is out of range, or the computer
has some incorrect adaptive strategy
stored in memory, and has to be discon-
nected and allowed to erase its adaptive
memory to fix the problem.

Underdrive Operation
Another unusual characteristic to
keep in mind when youre trouble-
shooting a 5-speed transaxle: There
are two different shift strategies in use.
Some units only hold the underdrive
on through 3rd gear; others keep it on
through 4th, and only release the under- Figure 4
drive band for 5th gear.
You can tell which one youre underdrive for 1st, 2nd and As with most transmissions, the
working on by monitoring when the 3rd gears. (figure 4). key to successful diagnosis and repair
computer energizes the reduction band on the Mitsubishi F4A/F5A is under-
solenoid: If the unit only energizes the standing how it works. From there,
If the unit energizes the sole- solenoid for 5th gear, the most problems become simple to track
noid for 4th and 5th ranges, transaxle is using underdrive down and repair.
the transaxle is only using for 1st through 4th gears.

GEARS January/February 2008 


The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild

The AF33-5:
Inside the by Lance Wiggins

Rebuild

holds
the 4-5 clutch
for 3rd gear, so when

I f you
havent
had the opportunity to see one of
these units yet, its built quite nicely;
its relatively light weight, and easy
the computer commands
4th gear, the band releases and
the 4-5 clutch applies. 5th gear
is when the direct clutch applies, pro-
viding a 1:1 ratio a pretty slick setup
Figure 1

from the transmission (figure 2); from


this position its easy to air-check the
to disassemble and rebuild. And its for such a little transmission. clutches and bands.
particularly clean in its clutch applica- Once the valve body is off, remove
tions. Rebuild Specifics the end cover. The end cover consists
The forward clutch is applied in all Once the transmission is on the of the 1-2 reverse clutch assembly
the forward ranges. The second clutch bench, place the transmission on its and the forward clutch sealing rings
comes on in 2nd and stays on through bellhousing and remove the pan (fig- (figure 3). The clutch is applied when
the rest of the gears. The 3rd gear band ure 1). Then remove the valve body the transmission is in park, reverse,

Figure 2 Figure 3

 GEARS January/February 2008


C M Y CM MY CY CMY K
The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild

FWD Direct
Rings

12 Reverse
Carrier

Figure 5

Figure 4 Figure 6

Figure 7

neutral, 1st and 2nd gears. A common


The 4-5 clutch assembly has the sun gear problem associated to the 1-2 reverse
clutch failure would be no 1st or 2nd
attached to the drum; theyre splined to gear in any forward ranges and no
the 1-2 reverse carrier through the plan- reverse.
Removing the end cover exposes
etary gears. When applied, the third gear the forward and direct clutch drum
band holds the 4-5 clutch assembly. and the 1-2 reverse carrier (figure 4).
The support shaft in the end cover has

10 GEARS January/February 2008


Figure 8A Figure 8B

Figure 9

three sealing rings that seal the forward these bearings during assembly. Remove the servo assembly
clutch apply circuit; check these rings The 4-5 clutch assembly has and the band anchor (figure
and their sealing surface carefully for the sun gear attached to the drum; 8a, 8b).
wear (figure 5). theyre splined to the 1-2 reverse car- Once the band is loose, remove
Remove the forward and direct rier through the planetary gears. When the 4-5 clutch assembly (figure
clutch drum assembly from the trans- applied, the third gear band holds the 9).
mission (figure 6). Remove the 1-2 4-5 clutch assembly. You must remove Remove the band from the
reverse carrier assembly; there are nee- the band before you can remove the 4-5 transmission (figure 10).
dle bearings on both sides of the assem- clutch assembly:
bly (figure 7). Make sure you reinstall

GEARS January/February 2008 11


The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild

Figure 10

Figure 11 Figure 12

Remove the carrier assembly from


the transmission; the front sun
gear assembly is connected to the
carrier assembly (figure 13).

Next, remove the rear sun gear assembly (figure 11).


The sun gear is splined to the direct clutches and the sun
gear is splined to the front carrier assembly. The rear inter-
nal gear is splined to the front carrier assembly (figure 12).
Remove the carrier assembly from the transmission; the
front sun gear assembly is connected to the carrier assem-
bly (figure 13).
Figure 13

12 GEARS January/February 2008


GRTSAD-01-08 12/7/07 2:05 PM Page 1

Modulate your approach


The new Sonnax VFS Modulator Control Sleeve & Valve Kit restores valuable
modulated line pressure to the servos or coast clutch.

COMPLAINT Line pressure concerns, slipping upshifts, low line pressure


SECONDARY COMPLAINTs Pressure out-of-range codes Burned forward clutch Burned intermediate band

Cause 5R55W/S
Bore wear at the VFS1 (PCA) and VFS2
(PCB) locations allows modulated VFS1
line pressure to exhaust instead of Bore
feeding the overdrive, intermediate or VFS2 Bore
low/reverse servos or the coast clutch.
Fluid pressure loss at these apply
components results in low line pres-
sure, shift complaints and burned
clutches and bands. Valve Body
VFS Modulator
Control Sleeve

COrrection Spring
VFS Modulator
Control Valve

The Sonnax sleeve and valve kit allows


the wear to be eliminated, future wear to
be prevented, and correct hydraulic pres-
sures to be restored to these critical apply
components. The Sonnax kit works in Clip
either modulator control valve location.
End Plug
with O-Ring

VFS Modulator F-56947J-TL19

Control Sleeve
& Valve Kit Features & Benefits
Highly wear-resistant sleeve provides additional support to the control valve.
56947J-19K Hard-coat anodized aluminum valve is wear-resistant, and has more sealing contact
1 Valve with the bore than OEM to minimize leakage.
1 Sleeve
1 End Plug TOOL O-ringed end plug provides positive seal to the bore once valve/sleeve assembly is installed.
1 Spring New spring maintains OEM operating pressures.
2 O-Rings R
EQ
Kit works in either the VFS1 or VFS2 modulator control bore location.
D

UIRE

F-56947J-TL19
1 Guide Pin
2 Reamer
2 Reamer Jigs

Automatic Drive P.O. Box 440 Visit www.sonnax.com for more


Bellows Falls, VT 05101-0440 USA information about all our products and
800-843-2600 802-463-9722 F: 802-463-4059 tools, and to locate a Sonnax Transmission
Specialties distributor near you.
T I M E T E S T E D I N D U S T R Y T R U S T E D TM www.sonnax.com info@sonnax.com
2007 Sonnax Industries, Inc.
The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild

Figure 14A Figure 14B

The low/reverse clutches are splined to the front


internal gear and low sprag clutch assembly, which are
held to the case. Use a screwdriver to remove the snap
ring and remove the drum and clutches (figure 14a, 14b).
The low sprag clutch assembly rotates counter clockwise
as viewed, hold the outer drum and turn the inner race
counterclockwise(figure 14c).
The next step is to remove the low/reverse piston
assembly:
Remove the snap ring, return spring cage, and
piston from the transmission (figure 15 and 16).

Roll the transmission over to the pump access


side.

Figure 14C

Figure 15 Figure 16

14 GEARS January/February 2008


Bygone Service 2.pdf 8/25/2006 4:12:23 PM

CM

MY

CY

CMY

K
The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild

Figure 17 Figure 18

Remove the eight pump bolts from the pump


assembly, and pry the pump out of the transmission
case (figure 17).

The second clutch bolts to the back of the pump assem-


bly (figure 18). Remove the torq bolts and remove the stator
support and 2nd clutch assembly (figure 19).
Once the pump assembly is out, remove the case bolts
and separate the case halves (figure 20).
Look down from the end clutch side to see the output
gear assembly. To remove the gear assembly you must
remove the snap ring from the splined area (figure 21). Once
the snap ring is removed, youre going to have to use a dead
blow hammer or a press. The gear is splined into the case, Figure 19

Figure 20

16 GEARS January/February 2008


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a shop just
shop just down
just down the
down the street
the street from
street from yours.
from yours.
yours.
Want
Want to know Whats Working in the successful shops all across the USA and Canada?
Want to
to know
know Whats
Whats Working
Working in
in the
the successful
successful shops
shops all
all across
across the
the USA
USA and
and Canada?
Canada?
Want
Want to
to learn
learn how
how to
to Make
Make it
it Work
Work in
in your
your shop?
shop?
Want to learn how to Make it Work in your shop?

Find
Find the answers to these questions and more at:
Find the
the answers
answers to
to these
these questions
questions and
and more
more at:
at:
ATRAs
ATRAs Powertrain
Powertrain Expo
Expo
at The Las Vegas Hilton, Las Vegas, Nevada
at
at The
The Las
Las Vegas
Vegas Hilton,
Hilton, Las
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The AF33-5: Inside the Rebuild

Figure 21 Figure 22

and its in there pretty tight (figure 22).


Thats all there is to it: the unit is
pretty much disassembled just the
way we like it.
Here are a few common condi-
tions, and the areas to pay attention to
during your rebuild:

No Reverse, Slips in Reverse;


or No 5th Gear, Slips in 5th
This can be caused by plugged
direct clutch apply passages. If the
direct clutches are burnt make sure the
passages are clear (figure 23).

No 1st Gear in Drive or


the Intermediate Ranges
This can be caused by the front
internal gear and low sprag assem- Figure 23
bly. The proper rotation when holding
the sprag assembly and rotating the
front internal gear is locks clockwise
and rotates counterclockwise (rotation
shown on Figure 14c)

No 2nd, 3rd or 4th or


No Torque in 2nd, 3rd or 4th
This can be caused by the sec-
ond clutch sprag assembly. The proper
rotation when holding the outer race
and turning the inner race is locks
clockwise and rotates counterclockwise
(figure 24).
As you can see, the AF33-5 is
really a simple transmission that only
requires the most basic care and atten-
tion to detail. Once you become famil-
iar with the procedures and common
checks, itll probably become one of
your favorite and most profitable
rebuilds.
Figure 24

18 GEARS January/February 2008


As a dedicated transmission professional
Rick Basta, owner of Transmission Kings,
knows the secret to a successful shop is
dependable performance and satisfied
customers. Thats why he rebuilds with
TransTec.
No surprises. Buy a TransTec kit and you
MY GUYS
can bet the bank that all the parts required
for the job are there and that they all fit. Its ALWAYS REQUEST
no accident; our engineering department,
product development and technical staffs,
plus a proven QA system, combine to give
TRANSTEC.
you the assurance you cant get anywhere Rick Basta,
else. Owner of Transmission Kings
Manufactured to meet the strictest OE Cleveland, OH
standards, TransTec kits contribute to a
faster rebuild with virtually no comebacks.
And detailed technical inserts reinforce what
the technicians learn at various seminars.
These are just a few reasons why transmis-
sion rebuilders request the kit in the gold
and black bag.
TransTec kits are produced by Freuden-
berg-NOK, the American partnership with
more than $6 billion in resources. Yet it is
the close, personal support that impresses
transmission shops like Ricks.
TransTec makes it easy.

ORIGINAL 4s&sWWW4RANS4ECCOMs-ILAN /(


The Aftermarket Business of Freudenberg-NOK

New TransTec ad 9326.indd 1 10/24/07 4:58:32 PM


TransTec Kits:
Support Before and After the Sale
by Steve Bodofsky

T hese days, its become almost


a requirement for companies
to identify themselves as your
business partner, letting you know
were in this together. But too often,
Original equipment quality and design for the aftermarket Search Home About Us Site Map Contact Us
the partnership dissolves because of
lack of support and you realize your Transmission Kits
business partner was only interested in
a quick sale.
The folks at Corteco who bring New Online Transmission
you TransTec brand transmission kits Catalog by Vehicle
Tech Info By Transmission
have adopted a long-term philosophy New Products - complete listings
New Honda Civic 2006-Up
where they support their kits before New Overhaul Kit With FARPAK
Gaskets
and after the sale. Theres no hard TransTec Bulletins - complete listings
sell or pressure to buy their kits; only New GM 4T65E - EPC O-rings
New Aisin Warner AW55-50SN
support in the way of a feature-rich Distributors
Associations
web site with technical references that Power Steering Kits
New Heavy-Duty Kits
simplify rebuilding; literature available New Products/Coverage TransTec brand automotive replacement parts offer
Ordering Informtion
online, in packaging and at seminars; Power Steering Catalog
the highest quality available in the aftermarket. TransTec
products contain the same quality, design, and materials

on-site engineering to improve kit per- New Products supplied to Original Equipment Manufacturers glob-
ally. When it comes to automotive sealing components,
TransTec is a name you can trust for World Class
formance, and a whole lot more. automotive parts and dependability.

When you visit the companys web


ORIGINAL
site (www.TransTec.com) youll find
The Aftermarket Business of Freudenberg-NOK 2008 Freudenberg-NOK
virtually every kilobyte is used to pro-
vide the visitor with technical support. sale that its the more important Its this long-term, end-to-end phi-
A Transmission Guide makes it easy part of what they have to offer the losophy that permeates every part of
to identify transmissions in domes- end user: the transmission rebuilder their business; from initial development
tic and import vehicles; New Product and production remanufacturer. This through the final delivery of the vehicle
Announcements, Technical Inserts and radical departure from the classic sales to your customer. And its a big part of
Bulletins clear up confusion and sim- approach highlights Cortecos philoso- why they build quality into every kit
plify rebuilding complex transmissions; phy that Transtec kits arent sold they sell.
and a new Online Transmission Catalog until theyre installed. As a result,
includes the latest kits and components Corteco is putting more resources into A Solution Provider
available. making sure that the transmission shop Some rebuilders might mistake
You get all this because Corteco has everything it needs to provide a Corteco, the company that brings you
believes support comes before the quality repair. TransTec transmission kits, for a

Brad Norton - President Craig Stark - Director John Galloway - Sales Manager

20 GEARS January/February 2008


packaging company - but they dont bore is pristine and every surface in suring and diagnostic equipment; equip-
know the whole story. perfect alignment with the rest. ment such as the Surveyor WS 3040
Corteco is the aftermarket busi- But over time, those cases and hard by Laser Design Inc., a highly sophisti-
ness of global automotive-parts giant parts wear. And many of the seals that cated device that measures components
Freudenberg-NOK, the worlds largest were sufficient for use in a shiny, new with patented laser technology. This
producer of elastomeric seals and cus- transmission case fall short when asked enables Cortecos engineers to evalu-
tom molded products with 160 facilities to perform in a transmission thats ate component sealing demands, and
throughout the world. So the major- been around the block a few times. No provide high-quality solutions that will
ity of parts installed in TransTec amount of planning beforehand can meet and exceed those demands.
transmission kits are actually made predict just how those units are likely Were sealing experts, explains
by Freudenberg-NOK. Thats a far cry to wear in the real world. Craig Stark, Director. Its our job to
from simply being a kit packager. This is why Cortecos Research examine sealing components, and cre-
Now granted, some components in and Development (R&D) team finds ate newer, more advanced solutions for
TransTec kits are made by other com- it critical to work hand-in-hand with the sealing challenges our customers
panies, but this provides rebuilders with transmission shops, production reman- face.
the quality assurance that comes from ufacturers and distributors: To provide
O.E. parts. Labeling Corteco a parts real-world data on transmissions that Addressing Problems in
packager is about as accurate as call- are no longer pristine. And its why the Field
ing NASA an airline. After all, NASA TransTec kits are far superior to OEM So how does Cortecos R&D team
doesnt build their own Space Shuttles; and other brands when used in higher deal with a technical issue from the
they buy every piece, and then just have mileage transmissions. field? Our first priority is to help the
their guys fly them around, just like a shop get the car out the door, explains
commercial airline right? Customer-Driven John Wozniak, Product Development
Of course thats an absurd assess- Development Manager. That may mean sending an
ment no one would think of compar- Cortecos business model of better alternative component or a prototype
ing NASA to an airline. Sure, they buy serving its customers begins in your out overnight, just to address the imme-
their space vehicles; but they buy them shop. Corteco has increased its sales diate situation. Once thats handled, we
based on exacting specifications that force to provide more direct contact need to study the facts and determine a
they develop and submit for each and with transmission shops and production course of action.
every component that goes into them. remanufacturers. From there, they add the details of
And every one of those elements has to This allows them to discover exact- the condition to their comprehensive
go through rigorous testing and certifi- ly what shop owners and rebuilders research database. This database allows
cation before its accepted for its first deal with in todays transmissions. And Corteco engineers and technicians to
flight to the stars. it allows them to take a more active role look for failure trends that need to be
Thats also a terrific description of in correcting the problems that those addressed through design changes or
how Corteco develops its transmission shops face. additions to their kits.
seal kits. OEM standards are only a The sales force brings that infor- Once weve identified a failure
starting point for Corteco. And, just like mation back to Cortecos R&D team trend, we know its time to begin look-
the Space Shuttle, every piece that goes to be analyzed and addressed. The ing for the root cause, and to develop a
into a TransTec seal kit has to meet R&D team includes degreed engineers, solution, explains Wozniak. In other
their exacting specifications. who are uniquely qualified to analyze words, significant failure trends are a
That sounds great, you say, but raw failure data from the shops, and call to action for us.
Id be happy with OEM quality. Why develop newer, better ways to compen- Most of the data that enters their
do I need more than that? Because sate for the sealing problems caused by evaluation process comes from trans-
OEM quality is adequate maybe wear in aging components. mission repair shops, just like yours.
even ample for a new transmission, And its why Corteco equips its And they receive additional informa-
right off the assembly line, when every development team with the latest mea- tion through their relationships with a

Jeff Rayburn - Sales Manager Bill DAgostino - Sales Manager John Wozniak - Product Development Manager

GEARS January/February 2008 21


TransTec Kits: Support Before and After the Sale

Don Cottrell - Product Technician Chad Geretz - Product Engineer Patty Richards - Marketing Manager
dealing with transmissions that have
traveled over 100,000 miles. In that
time, bores and sealing surfaces wear.
Then its left for us to create new seal-
ing solutions that can compensate for
that wear.
Those sealing solutions may
include new sealing materials, designed
to withstand the stresses placed on them
by the additional wear theyre dealing
with. Or they may involve altering the
Product Engineer, Chad Geretz uses a A TransTec kit is compared to the size of the seal or using a totally differ-
Micro-Vue measurement machine to inspection board that contains each part ent style of seal. In some cases, it may
extract measurements and critical seal on the bill-of-material. Since accuracy require identifying the condition for the
features for O.E. performance. and consistency are critical, comparison technician, showing him what to look
with this inspection tool takes place each for, so the worn components can be
time the packaging line changes and at replaced.
random points during the production run.
Sometimes the failure is a result of
something other than a worn hard part.
In some cases it is the seal that has
worn prematurely often times due to
poor equipment maintenance or com-
mon cleaning detergents being used.
If it is a seal failure, this is the effect
of the problem, not the cause. The
fix here may be simply educating the
technician in the importance of main-
taining his cleaning machine properly
and offering suggestions on alternate
cleaning solutions.
But whatever the condition and
the ultimate solution the Corteco
R&D team is there to identify the con-
dition, isolate the problem, and develop
a real-world solution to address it.

So What About You?


Have you discovered a problem
that hasnt been addressed at the kit
A Surveyor WS Series Scanner by Laser Design Inc., a highly sophisticated device
that measures components with patented laser technology. level? Is there something youd like to
see added or changed in your rebuild
number of production remanufacturers. because the key to creating a successful kits? Then the folks at Corteco would
Once a pattern of failure has been solution is in first identifying the root like to hear from you. Visit www.
identified, the R&D begins in ear- cause of the failure. TransTec.com and let them know what
nest. They start by collecting the actual Usually the cause is due to kind of problem youre facing, and how
failed components, for measurement wear, explains Don Cottrell, Product youve been dealing with it.
and examination. This step is critical Technician. Remember, were often Try to provide as much information

22 GEARS January/February 2008


Freudenberg-NOK A truly global supplier
TransTec automatic transmission supplier-operated facility for develop-
overhaul kits are produced by Corteco, ing and testing sealing products in the
the aftermarket business of global auto- Americas.
motive-parts giant Freudenberg-NOK. Since many manufacturers today
The company is a general partnership seek suppliers who are innovative and
of Freudenberg of Germany and NOK of have global reach, much of Freudenberg-
Japan. The partnership was established NOKs success has come as a result of
Sara Bruns Product Technician July 1st, 1989, but Freudenbergs his- its close working relationship with its
tory dates back to 1849 and NOK was parent companies and ability to tap the
founded in 1939. The Freudenberg-NOK technology and expertise of its partners
Global Partnership integrates Japanese, in Europe and Asia.
German and American technology, has Extending its technology expertise
total global sales over $7.5 billion and beyond the automotive market,
over 30,000 employees serving custom- Freudenberg-NOK also provides
ers worldwide. an extensive portfolio of precision
Freudenberg-NOKs headquarters is molded products to the aerospace,
located in Plymouth, Mich., just a few aftermarket, fluid power, oil and gas,
miles from Detroit and is an 80,000- marine, healthcare/medical, off-highway
square-foot complex. This state-of-the- equipment, recreational, industrial,
Bill Kay - Product Technician art, facility includes a $30 million Technical chemical processing and semiconductor
Center, which is the most extensive markets worldwide.
as possible. To even consider work-
ing on a solution, the Corteco R&D
team will need to know the transmis- Answering Pads, Corteco is a leader aggressive in their support for ATRA
sion affected, the specific condition in its support for the Association and and GEARS.
and what parts were involved. And if the individual transmission shops it Why is Corteco so involved with
youve come up with a solution on your represents. the industry at large? Because they
own they want to hear about that too. If youre a regular reader of know that a strong transmission repair
If you can, try to get pictures of GEARS, youre probably very familiar industry profits everyone including
the components involved. Even better, with the TransTec ads and logo. They them. So its to everyones benefit for
hang onto the worn components for buy a full-page ad in every issue. Corteco to provide as much support as
further evaluation. Sure, those ads are designed to possible, to help ensure a brighter busi-
Who knows? You could be the reinforce the TransTec name, and, yes, ness picture for all of us.
source for the next set of improvements theyre supposed to help them sell more Better solutions for real-world
to the TransTec kit line. kits. But theyre also one of the ways problems providing complete support
in which Corteco is helping support for customers because at Corteco,
Supporting Our Industry this industry our industry by pro- they recognize the importance of sup-
One thing the folks at Corteco are viding support for GEARS Magazine. port before and after the sale.
quick to acknowledge is the importance Without that support, GEARS would To that end, you are invited to con-
of taking an active role in helping sup- quickly become a memory, and with it tact Corteco and request a personal visit
port the transmission repair industry. would go a valuable training and news to your shop. Just go to www.TransTec.
Whether its a booth at ATRAs annual resource that youve come to depend com and click on the Contact Us link.
Expo, attending a customer sponsored on. Corteco considers that training a Let them know you want to schedule
weekend technical seminar or lending valuable addition to our industry, and a visit. Corteco considers these vis-
its sponsorship to ATRAs new Phone its a large part of why theyre so its paramount in developing a better
understanding of the challenges you are
facing. Even if they dont hear from
you - dont be surprised if you see
one of their associates knocking on
your door in 2008!

Customer Service Personnel: Sue Jesberger, Leslie Holm, and Claudia Balduff

GEARS January/February 2008 23


WHATS WORKING

Somebody get
the phone! by Rodger Bland

I
ts been said that you never get off potential customers (read sales)
a second chance to make a good right out the door with a poor phone
first impression. When it comes to answering procedure.
marketing your shop first impressions Our theme for this years Whats
are what youre hoping to attract. Working management track at Expo is
And according to our Whats Getting em in the Door And what
Working study, the most common form better place to start that process than
of advertising (one form of marketing) with the phone.
is the Yellow Pages. 99% of you said If youve been following these
that your phone-book ad constitutes Whats Working series of articles, or
the majority of your annual advertising attended last years Expo, or checked in
budget. on the Whats Working e-mail forum,
So, youre spending your money then youre probably aware of the fol-
on getting your phone to ring-great; lowing comment:
what are you doing when it actually We dont know what we think we
rings? know!
If I were to ask you to rate your and, We wont know until we
phone answering procedure on a scale measure it.
The phone is answered in an of 1-5 (with 5 being the highest score), We recently called 100 shops from
enthusiastic manner suggesting I bet that almost everyone reading this all across North America and Canada
that whoever is on the other end is article would rate themselves either a to measure just how the phones in
important to the business, and that 4 or a 5 on that scale. And for good our industry were getting answered.
that person has your undivided reason too. After all, why spend all The purpose of our phone calls was to
attention. those thousands of dollars each year on re-qualify GEARS subscribers and to
Yellow Page ads just so you could blow update our databases on new contact

Sombody get the phone!

60

50 no answer/machine

40 abrupt, rude and unclear

30 dull- robotic- monotone

clear, professional
20
Prompt, personalized,
10 professional

0
1

24 GEARS January/February 2008


We recently called 100
shops from all across
North America and
Canada to measure just
how the phones in our
industry were getting
answered. .... We rated Sa m e name, Sa m e qualit y p ar t s and s er vice,
each shop's phone
answering procedures Sa m e management f or ove r 50 ye a r s!
on a scale from 1-5.
information. Once we identified who Us e d, New & Rebuilt
we were, and the nature of our call the
scoring was over. We were after their Hard Par t s
initial phone answering procedure. We
S of t Par t s
rated each shop's phone answering pro-
cedures on a scale from 1-5. Here is Ele c t r ic al Component s
the breakdown of what each number
represented and how our unsuspecting Fly whe els
respondents did.
One (1): To get this rating a shop
would have to do, or not do a few
things. First, never answer the phone.
Thats right after letting the phone
ring 12 times we hung up. As crazy Cu t t i ng e dg e inf or mation
as this would seem, some shops never
answered their phone, and we made re s ource s f or the ne x t 50
sure to call during normal business
hours too We know that their still in year s, and beyond.
business because we called them back
and they did answer so much for that
good first impression. Now I know Sl a u s o n.co m
some shops close on Fridays, and some Sm a r tPa r t Par t s identi f ic ation/order ing s y s tem
close down for lunch. Thats cool, but
dont you think some type of message The New 20 0 8 Sl a u s o n Bo o k
might be in order here? Fo r Cu s to m i ze d ca ta l o g s , a n d Sm a r tPa r t f o r su p p l i e r s . . . ca l l e x t . 603
Another way a shop could get a
score of 1 from our poll was to put
us immediately on hold. Notice I said O f fe r i n g q u a l i t y p r o d uc t s f r o m t he s e f i ne ve n d o r s:
immediately on hold. Please hold
was their greeting no shop name, no Tr a n s t e c R ay b e s t o s A l l o m a t i c A l t o D y n a x S o n n a x
greeting just, Please hold. In other S p x Fi l t r a n L u b e G u a r d Tr a n s g o B o r gWa r n e r S u p e r i o r
words, I dont know who you are, or
why you are calling my business, but Ro s t r a Te c k Pa k H ayd e n Tr u - C o o l A u t o c r a f t AT S G
I want to ignore you. No thanks, we
hung up.
And finally, a shop could earn a Ph o n e Ho u r s: 7: 0 0 a m to 5: 0 0 p m / P S T
score of one by answering their phone C a l l (8 0 0) 421-558 0 Lo c a l (310) 76 8 -20 9 9
with a machine. I said could, because
FA X ( 310) 76 8 - 8298
some shops have some pretty sophis-
ticated phone answering machines, or
automated phone systems which might
take you through a menu of options O r d e r O n l i n e 24 / 7 at w w w. s l a u s o n.c o m S e h a b l a E s p a o l!
before you actually get the chance to
talk to a human being, or at least leave

GEARS January/February 2008 25


Somebody get the phone!
a message for said human being to call of the phone when you answer it! The that scored within the highest Success
you back. Some people are O.K. with sad part is I would bet that the majority Metric on our last Whats Working
well run automated phone systems and of those who fell within this category survey.
some people hate them. We arent talk- actually think their phone answering Do you think there might be a cor-
ing about answering machines here, procedure is just fine. I wonder how relation here on how successful shops
these were more like announcement many actually track the number of answer their phones compared with
machines.- Thank you for calling ABC phone calls to sales, or from those how not so successful shops answer
Transmissions, we are unable to take phone calls to how many actually bring their phones? I wonder.
your call at the present time; please in their cars?
call back later. Are you kidding me? This was our highest occurrence There have been countless books,
I couldnt make this stuff up- give em from the quick poll tragically 56 articles and seminars on Proper Phone
a one. phones were answered with a who Procedures, we might even bring in
I cant think of anybody who gives a crap attitude. 56%! an expert on this at Expo, but for the
is seriously trying to run a business majority of you reading this article you
A quick note here, we had our
allowing the aforementioned scenarios cant wait until Expo to start answering
resident expert on phone calls, Rick
to take place when answering their your phone correctly you need to start
Eastwood, make every one of these
phones. But guess what? We found 12 today!
calls. For those who dont know Rick,
such companies in just 100 calls- 12% Heres what you need to do:
he is the main telemarketer for the
of our phone calls were scored a one First, start monitoring how your
Association. Rick makes literally thou-
to me, that is incredibly sad. employees are answering your business
sands of phone calls to shops all across
What about a two (2)? Well, to phone call your shop and give it a
the country each and every year; mar-
achieve this score on our unscientific score of 1-5. Have some of your friends
keting our regional seminars, annual
poll, you had to display what we call and relatives call your shop and ask
Expos and GEARS subscribers. Its safe
The Grumpy Trifecta: Rude, abrupt for their feedback. Next, after gather-
to say that Rick has heard it all when
and unclear. ing your own information, have a shop
it comes to how shops in our industry
Remember, were talking about meeting with everyone who answers the
answer their phones. He also provides
businesses here. Businesses which pay phone at your shop. Go over the process
us with a great common denominator
a handsome sum each month to the on what to say, and more importantly,
when it comes to differentiating one
phone-book people to get their business how to say it. Stress that each time the
shop from another- if Rick says you
phones to ring. phone rings that its an opportunity for
answer your phone in a boring, un-
Trannyman, Bob here whos a sale and why it is so important that the
interested manner; you should believe
calling? at least thats what they might phone be answered in a consistent, pro-
him, and we do.
have said, hard to hear with the air fessional manner. Post a script by each
ratchet banging away in our ear. O.K. on with the study....what phone for the employees who may only
Hello? click. about a score of 4 or 5? These two answer your phone on certain occasions
Honestly, can you imagine trying are pretty close really. A 4 is prompt (see the ATRA Phone Procedure Pads
to convince a prospective customer to (within 3 rings), clear and professional. for more information on this). Finally,
bring their car into a shop where their On the other hand a 5 consists of never forget that you truly get only one
first impression of your business was a prompt, professional, personalized chance to make that good first impres-
an assault on their senses? Amazingly greeting. Something like.... Thanks for sion and it starts when you pick up that
we found 20 Grumpy Old Tranny dudes calling ACTION Transmissions, this is ringing phone.
during our calls 20%. Rick, how may I help you? , or...This is Well continue to provide informa-
What about a rating of three (3)? Rick, whos calling please? tion in the coming issues on how you
Well, here are the criteria for getting a The phone is answered in an enthu- and your shop can Get em in the Door
three on our scale: Dull, un-interested, siastic manner suggesting that whoever with solid business advice based on the
boring. It wasnt so much what they is on the other end is important to the facts that are occurring in our industry
said when they answered the phone, but business, and that that person has your today just like our simply phone poll
how they said it. Remember the teacher undivided attention. detailed in this article.
on Ferris Buellers Day Off? Picture We werent looking for something One thing is for sure though; if you
the monotone, uninspiring voice of Ben too out of the ordinary for a score of want to get more business from your
Stien (the actor) answering your shops 4 or 5 just a simple, prompt, clear and Yellow Page ads by getting potential
phone: T h a n k y o u f o r c a l l professional greeting. Rick found 18 customers to come to your shop, then
i n g the shops that he determined deserved a 4 somebody in your organization better
T r a n s S h o p, ... C a n I and another 4 shops that scored a per- get the phone!
h e l p y o u ? .... Bueller?, fect 5 on our Rick-ter phone scale!
Bueller? Thats only 22 shops out of the 100
Hello? polled that were rated either a 4 or 5.
You have to at least act like you Not surprisingly, those numbers reflect
care who might be on the other end fairly close to the percentage of shops

26 GEARS January/February 2008


Getting the transfer case kits you need
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E-mail: sales@transmissionkits.com www.transmissionkits.com
Making It Work
Get em in the Door

Where to
Begin
by Dennis Madden

Figure 1

B
ased on the chatter on the In any business there are numer- analysis exercise we introduced in the
Whats Working forum, it ous projects youd like to work on. last issue of GEARS. If you havent
looks like everyones interest But which ones should you begin first? completed that exercise, youll want to
is in reaching out to new customers: One problem with selecting a project look at it before you continue, because,
no great surprise there. What a lot of is that there are often so many that really, the only projects likely to start
people on the forum have discovered is need your attention, you dont know bringing more customers in the door are
there are more potential customers out where to begin. Or you start one and those that have an impact on them.
there than they thought it just took get discouraged because youre not Okay, so now you have a dozen
some work to get em in the door. making significant progress, or you or so projects that you think will have
The excitement of starting new get sidetracked with other projects that an impact on your customers. Some
projects and reaching new customers seem more pressing at the time. In this of these are items the customer sees
is a great start, but its not enough; edition of Making It Work, were going and can assess directly; others have
the best this can offer is to improve to discuss how to decide which projects an impact on customers but they dont
the business a bit. What were take priority and how to approach a see them directly. These are things
looking for is a breakthrough! And project so you can complete it. like cycle time how long it takes
to achieve a breakthrough, youll need Before you select a project, make to complete the job. Its important to
to approach your problems systemati- sure its something that addresses one the customer, but they dont actually
cally. of the items you identified in the KANO see whats involved in getting it done.

28 GEARS January/February 2008


tance. Once you break it down like this, Given all weve discussed, you
In any business there your project selection gets really easy. can get to work on some significant
Obviously, activities that the cus- projects by selecting those that your
are numerous projects
tomer can see and assess directly are customers see and are repetitive. From
youd like to work on. most important. Sure, the customer there its a choice between repetitive
But which ones should might place cycle time really high on activities the customer doesnt see and
the list, but you can mask that prob- non-repetitive activities your customer
you begin first? One lem by working longer hours. That sees. The beauty of this process is, if
problem with selecting is, you may have a goal of a two-day you go through the DMAIC process we
turnaround, but customers wont know covered last August, your decision will
a project is that there if you completed the work in twelve be easy.
are often so many hours over two days, or you worked In our next excursion into proj-
that need your atten- around the clock; they just know when ect performance, well cover how the
they got their cars back. So first look complexity of a project can affect your
tion, you dont know at those activities your customers can ability to manage it. Everybody has a
where to begin. see. project list: things they want to accom-
Next, consider those activities that plish. The difference between the ones
are repetitive (like your phone proce- who actually complete their projects
It either meets their needs or it doesnt. dure). Repetitive projects are, by defi- and those that work on them but never
The KANO analysis addresses nition, easier, because once you have seem to get them done is how they
both of these categories, so take what it, its done. A non-repetitive activity, approach the projects, and their ability
you wrote down during that exercise like diagnosing transmission problems, to focus on one project, rather than try-
and place them in these two categories: requires a specialist trained in that field. ing to juggle multiple projects with no
those that customers can see, and those Same thing for a customer service rep: sense of priority. Pick one and begin
they cant see. If customer service (in terms of the preferably one thats going to Get
Now take the two categories and person your customer sees) is an issue, em in the Door!
divide them into two other categories: and youd prefer working the bench,
repetitive activities and non-repeti- youll need to hire an individual trained
tive activities. A repetitive activity is in that area.
something like a phone greeting: Its
something you repeat (well or not
so well) every time you answer the
phone. Thank you for calling ATRA ATIS CW3 CONVERTER WELDING
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theres enough need for improvement SAMEEQUIPMENTWEUSETOBUILDOURTOP OF THE LINEHIGH
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s0ASS 4HROUGH#ONVERTER7ASHER
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large list makes it less likely that youll
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GEARS January/February 2008 29


Keep Those Trannys Rolling

4x4 Low Range


will not Engage by Pete Huscher

at Times
I n the last installment of Keep
Those Trannys Rolling, we looked
at a 1999 Ford Explorer with a
chatter or shudder sensation on accel-
eration while turning (GEARS, October
C280
2007). While diagnosing the BW4405
automatic four-wheel drive system, we
found codes P1837 (rear driveshaft
speed sensor), B1322 and B1574 (door
ajar circuits) in the GEM(generic elec-
tronic module) system.
A faulty rear driveshaft speed sen-
sor was causing the automatic four-
wheel drive system to engage intermit-
tently, causing a chatter or shudder
sensation on acceleration while turning.
Replacing the rear driveshaft speed sen-
sor seemed to eliminate the problem.
But before we were ready to deliver the
vehicle, we had to recheck the GEM
system to see if code P1837 returned.
Figure 1: With radio and center dash panel removed, its easy
to access the GEM connector.
Back at the Shop:
After returning to the shop, we that each time the drivers door was open when it was actually closed.
connected a scan tool and checked the opened and closed, code B1322 (driv- Next, we removed the radio, center
GEM system for codes. P1837 wasnt ers door ajar circuit) would reset, dis- dash panel and the mounting screw
present, but codes B1322 (drivers door abling the command for 4x4 low range. securing the GEM module to the dash
ajar circuit) and B1574 (left rear door Apparently the door ajar code was frame, to access to GEM module con-
ajar circuit) were. interfering with the engagement to 4x4 nector C280 (figure 1). While back-
While performing the final checks low. It became obvious that, to repair probing the GEM module C280 con-
on the four-wheel drive system, we the no engagement into 4x4 low nector, terminal #8 (yellow/black wire;
noticed the Gem system wouldnt allow problem, we were going to have to fix figure 2) we were able to monitor the
a commanded shift to 4x4 low range at the door ajar circuits. drivers door ajar signal.
times. After verifying all parameters When the drivers door is closed,
were within range to allow for a com- Checking the the drivers door ajar circuit is grounded
manded shift to 4x4 low, we cleared the Door Ajar Circuits through the drivers door latch assem-
door ajar codes and rechecked the 4x4 We reconnected our scan tool, and bly; when the door is open, the ground
system operation. With the door ajar monitored the drivers door ajar sys- circuit is interrupted.
codes cleared, the GEM system would tem. Each time we opened and closed While monitoring the circuit, we
now allow a commanded shift to 4x4 the drivers door, the scan tool would could see the circuit go to ground some
low range. show the drivers door open and close times; other times it wouldnt. After
As we continued to check the intermittently. Sometimes the scan tool verifying that the Gem module was
4x4 system operation, we discovered would indicate the drivers door was getting an intermittent ground from the

30 GEARS January/February 2008


open the door easily from inside the
vehicle, but it was difficult or impos-
sible at times to open it from outside.
Further inspection revealed that the
drivers power door lock would stick
intermittently in the locked position,
and wouldnt allow the door to open
from the outside. While opening the
door from the inside, the latch assembly
would override the lock mechanism
and allow the door to open.
We disconnected the drivers
power door lock actuator from the latch
assembly, and the door seemed to open
and close properly. Then we rechecked
the door ajar circuit operation through
the scan tool. This time the door ajar
system worked properly. Each time the
door closed, the circuit went to ground.
Each time the door opened, the ground
Figure 2: Backprobing the C280 connector lets us verify
circuit opened. The door latch assembly
the problem is in the circuit, not the GEM.
seemed to be doing its job; the power
drivers door ajar circuit, we knew there and vapor liner revealed the drivers door lock actuator must have been
had to be either a wiring problem to the door latch assembly, located behind interfering with the latch operation.
drivers door latch or the drivers door the drivers rear window track. We
latch assembly was faulty. removed the rear window track assem- Not a Unique Problem
bly to access to the door latch assembly Next, we called the local Ford deal-
Checking the (figure 3). ership and purchased a new door lock
Door Ajar System The drivers door lock system actuator. It quickly became obvious that
Removing the drivers door panel seemed to have a problem: We could the new actuator was different from the

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GEARS January/February 2008 31


4x4 Wont Engage Occasionally When the Trans Is in Low Range
original. Turns out, Fords been having
problems with the original door lock
actuators and redesigned them. This
was the updated replacement part.
We installed the new power lock
actuator and rechecked the system. With
the new power lock actuator installed,
the system seemed to work perfectly.
We reinstalled the rear window track
and rechecked the drivers door latch
operation. Each time the drivers door
opened, the door ajar ground circuit
opened; each time the drivers door
closed, the door ajar circuit went to
ground. It looked like the door ajar sys-
tem was repaired.
Before installing the drivers door
vapor lining and door panel, we checked
the 4x4 system operation. Each time
we requested engagement to 4x4 low
range, the Gem module complied and
engaged 4x4 low range. We reinstalled
the drivers door vapor lining and door
panel, then installed the Gem module
mounting screw, center dash panel and
radio (figure 4), and prepared for the
final test drive.
We stopped several times during
the test drive and tried 4x4 low range;
it engaged every time. We also opened
and closed the drivers door and then
tried 4x4 low range; once again, it
worked fine every time.
We drove back to the shop, recon-
nected the scan tool, and checked the
Gem system for codes. None present.
Figure 3: With the rear window track removed, you can get a good look at the
At this point we were confident the drivers door latch assembly and power door lock actuator.
vehicle was fixed, and ready to be
delivered.
So the next time youre working on
a transmission problem or a 4x4 system
problem and you just cant seem to find
the cause, remember: Engine perfor-
mance, GEM system or body control
system codes may interfere with the
transmission or 4x4 system operation.
Sometimes all you need to do is
step back and take another look at what
youre doing. Maybe the problem is
being caused by an unrelated system:
In this case, the power door lock system
interfered with the door ajar system,
which, in turn, interfered with the 4x4
system operation. But with a little bit
of patience and a better understanding
of how each system interacts with one
another, you, too, can keep those tran-
nys rolling. Figure 4: Once we corrected the source of the problem, we reinstalled the
GEM, radio and center dash panel, and prepared for a final road test.

32 GEARS January/February 2008


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A Look at the GM 6L80; Part 1

A Look at the
GM 6L80 ;
Part 1 by Steve Garrett
Cadillac STS-V

Hydra-Matic
2006 6L80 (MYC)
Six Speed RWD
Automatic Transmission

Introduction 32-bit TCM (TEHCM) mount-


The first of ten ed inside the transmission on the
new 6-speed automat- valve body (referred to as the con-
ics, the 6L80 was intro- trol solenoid valve assembly). The
duced for the 2006 model Figure 1 TEHCM incorporates the TCM,
year (Figure 1). The 6L80 solenoids, pressure switches and
(RPO MYC) is currently M a x i m u m TFT, and is bolted to the valve
available in the Corvette; shift speed: 6500 RPM body.
Cadillac XLR-V; Cadillac STS- Maximum GVW: 8600 lbs EC3 Converter 300mm (Corvette)
V; Chevrolet, Cadillac and GMC C/K Maximum GCVW: 14000 lbs 258mm twin plate (XLR-V and
trucks; and the Hummer H2 platforms. PRNDL positions: P, R, N, D, (S or STS-V)
M) Fluid required: Dexron VI
Features 2 shift solenoids (On/Off design): Clutch-to-clutch shifts; 5 clutches,
Input torque capacity: 430 lb-ft SS1, SS2 1 sprag
(583 Nm) 6 PWM pressure control solenoids: Planetary assemblies: Input
Output torque capacity: 664 lb-ft PCS1, PCS2, PCS3, PCS4, PCS5, Simpson; Output Dual Pinion
(900 Nm) TCC
Ratios:
1st 4.02:1
2nd 2.36:1
3rd 1.53:1
4th 1.15:1
5th 0.85:1
6th 0.67:1

Figure 2 Figure 3

34 GEARS January/February 2008


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A Look at the GM 6L80; Part 1
Vane-style oil pump
Internally-mounted input and output shaft, and Hall
Effect speed sensors
Internal Mode Switch (IMS)
Performance Algorithm Shifting (PAS) program-
ming
Performance Algorithm Lift foot (PAL) program-
ming
Sport mode and TAP shift
Adaptive strategies with fast learn capabilities
Up to 75 transmission-only DTCs

Checking Fluid Level


The 6L80 transmission requires an unusual process
for checking its fluid level. Many 6L80 applications dont
have a dipstick; theres a plug in the dipstick hole. The
plug can be removed and the hole used as a fill point for Figure 4
transmission fluid (Figure 2). Heres how to check the
fluid level:
Bring the transmission fluid temperature between 86
122F (3050C). You can verify this using a scan tool, the
driver information center, or the transmission gauge.
If the transmission has a dipstick, use that to check the
fluid level; on applications without a dipstick:
Park the vehicle on level ground.
Start the engine and let it idle.
Shift the transmission through each range, pausing in each
range for about 3 seconds to give the clutches a chance to
fill.
Place the transmission in park.
Remove the level control plug located in the transmission

Figure 5
oil pan. The fluid should drip out the level control
hole. If so, the fluid level is okay.
If fluid doesnt drip from the level control hole,
add Dexron VI until fluid starts to drip from the
hole.
If fluid runs from the hole, wait until the fluid
stops running out to lower the fluid to the
proper level.
The level is correct when fluid drips from the hole.
Figure 6 If a steady stream is present or no flow is present the

36 GEARS January/February 2008


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A Look at the GM 6L80; Part 1
fluid level is incorrect. Readjust the Low = Grounded (0 Volts) 6 controlled pressure control sole-
fluid level, and reinstall the fill plug High = Open (Source Voltage) noids; PCS, PCS2, PCS3, PCS4,
and the level control plug. Note: Not all applications will PCS5 and TCC; 3.0-5.5 ohms at
You can add fluid through the dip- include all the ranges shown in the 70F (21C), 0.9-amp current limit,
stick hole or through the level control chart solenoid operational voltage from
hole. Input and Output Speed Sensors TCM 8.39.3 volts, cleaning pulse
The speed sensors are Hall Effect every 30 seconds during P/N.
Whats Inside? assemblies and are mounted to the 32-bit TCM (TEHCM); mount-
NSBU/PRNDL/IMS Switch control valve assembly (valve body). ed inside the transmission on the
(Figure 3) The internal mode switch The TCM provides a signal voltage of valve body. Thermal protected
(IMS) is mounted to the valve body 8.39.3 volts for the sensor operation. 290F (144C), default 3rd or 5th.
and is connected mechanically to the As the clutch housings rotate, the sen- 4 pressure switches that monitor
manual valve. Electrically the internal sors produce a square wave signal that valve and clutch hydraulic opera-
mode switch operates much like other varies frequency with the speed of the tion and clutch volume index (CVI
GM applications: clutch housing (Figure 5). The TCM adaptive learn)
The TCM sends an 8.39.3 volt will monitor the frequency of the signal A transmission fluid temperature
bias to the internal mode switch on 4 to determine the input or output speed sensor (TFT) NTC thermistor.
circuits: A, B, C and P. Pin N, which (Figure 6 & 7). 2 TCM internal temperature sen-
is used for neutral starting operations, Control Solenoid Body and TCM sors
is fed system voltage from the ECM. Assembly (TEHCM)
As you move the range selector, the The control solenoid
internal mode switch will ground or valve assembly consists
open the circuits or circuit required to of these components:
indicate the specific manual valve posi- 2 shift solenoids
tion. The TCM identifies the range by (On/Off design):
the voltage sequence from the switch SS1, SS2; 16-20
(Figure 4). ohms at 70F (21C) Figure 8

Figure 7
38 GEARS January/February 2008
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A Look at the GM 6L80; Part 1
Pressure Switches The pres-
sure switches are housed as part of
the control solenoid valve assembly. 4
switches are used: 1, 3, 4 and 5. The
switches provide an input to the TCM
and have two basic functions:
To monitor clutch regulator valve
and clutch hydraulic operation
(Figure 8).
To monitor clutch volume index
(CVI adaptive learning).

Solenoid Operation
IMPORTANT: In systems using
the Bosch solenoid system, ON/OFF Figure 9
refers to the solenoids hydraulic com-
manded position, not their electrical
command as with other applications;
more on this later.
Shift solenoid and PCS operation
is controlled by the TEHCM (TCM).
The TCM regulates the feed voltage
to the solenoids between 8.39.3 volts
(Figure 9). The TCM then regulates
the current flow through the solenoids.
The shift solenoids are On/Off design
with the TCM controlling the power
and ground for the solenoids (Figure
10). The pressure control solenoids are
high-side, PWM controlled. The TCM
is overcurrent and overtemperature pro-
tected (Figure 11, 12, &13). uses three rotating clutches and two
Bosch refers to the solenoids by stationary clutches.
their hydraulic operation: Normally 1-2-3-4/Forward Clutch This
High (NH) or Normally Low (NL). clutch is applied in 1st through 4th
Normally High means the solenoid gears. The 1-2-3-4/forward clutch is
allows pressure to travel to the clutch located in the bottom of the reverse
when the solenoid is off. Normally clutch housing. When applied, it locks
Low means the solenoid prevents pres- the reverse drum to the 2-6 and 3-5-
sure from getting to a clutch when the reverse shell to drive the lower sun gear
solenoid is off. for the output carrier.
IMPORTANT: This concept of 2-6 Clutch This is one of the
Normally High and Normally Low to stationary clutches. Its located on top Figure 10
describe solenoid operation is far more of the center support assembly. It pre-
involved and confusing than it vents the 2-6 and 3-5-reverse shell from
might initially appear. Well discuss rotating.
the operation of the Bosch solenoids in 3-5-Reverse Clutch This clutch
detail in an upcoming issue of GEARS. is used in 3rd, 5th and reverse. Its
The solenoids are protected by the located in the reverse clutch housing.
filter plate. The filter plate is housed When applied, it connects the reverse
between the valve body and the con- drum to the 2-6 and 3-5-reverse shell.
trol solenoid valve assembly (TEHCM) The clutch then drives the front output
and must be replaced any time the sun gear in the output carrier.
Figure 11
valve body or control solenoid valve 4-5-6/Input Clutch This clutch
assembly (TEHCM) is replaced, or are is located in the input housing. When tionary clutch is located in the lower
unbolted from each other. applied, it locks the input housing to the section of the center support. The Low/
4-5-6 drive hub, which drives the lower Reverse clutch is used in reverse and
Clutches output carrier. manual low.
The 6L80 transmission (Figure 14) Low/Reverse Clutch This sta-

40 GEARS January/February 2008


A Look at the GM 6L80; Part 1
Powerflow creates an overdrive ratio of 0.852:1. Thats enough for this issue; in
First Gear: 1-2-3-4/Forward 6th Gear: 4-5-6/Input (rotating the next issue of GEARS, well look at
clutch (rotating clutch) is applied. clutch) and 2-6 clutches (stationary) some of the diagnostic processes for
Engine torque is applied to the are applied. these units.
input shaft, which is the driving com- With only the 4-5-6/input clutch
ponent for all ranges. When the input applied, all of the engine torque travels
shaft rotates, it drives the input ring through the output carrier with an over-
gear. The clutch drives the pinions of drive ratio of 0.667:1.
the input carrier, which is splined to the Reverse: 3-5-Reverse (rotating
reverse drum. clutch) and Low/Reverse clutches (sta-
When the 1-2-3-4/Forward clutch tionary) are applied.
applies, it transfers engine torque With the 3-5-Reverse clutch
through the input shaft to the reverse applied, engine torque from the input
drum. The torque then transfers to the shaft is sent through the input gear
1-2-3-4/input shell. The input shell is set, through the reverse drum, to the
splined to the lower output sun gear. 2-6 and 3-5-Reverse sun shell. The
The sun gear drives the output carrier upper sun gear rotates the pinions.
pinions, rotating the output ring gear at The carrier attempts to rotate, but the
a 4.027:1 gear ratio. Low/Reverse clutch is also applied,
Second Gear: 1-2-3-4/Forward holding the carrier stationary. This
clutch (rotating clutch) and 2-6 (sta- causes the ring gear to rotate backward
tionary) are applied. at a 3.064:1 ratio.
With the 2-6 clutch applied, the Figure 12
2-6 and 3-5-reverse shell cant rotate.
With the shell locked to the case, the
upper output sun gear is held. Engine
torque is still being applied through the
1-2-3-4/Forward clutch, which drives
the lower sun gear. The combination
of the two gearsets provides a 2.364:1
gear ratio.
Third Gear: 1-2-3-4/Forward
clutch (rotating clutch) and 3-5-Reverse
clutches (rotating clutch) are applied.
With the 3-5-Reverse clutch applied,
the reverse drum is locked to the 2-6
and 3-5-Reverse shell. Engine torque is
now transferred through both sun shells,
driving the output sun gears and output
carrier. The pinions rotate, turning the
output ring gear at a 1.532:1 ratio.
4th Gear: 1-2-3-4/Forward clutch
(rotating clutch) and 4-5-6/Input clutch-
es (rotating clutch) are applied.
With the 4-5-6/Input clutch applied,
the hub is driven at engine speed. The
1-2-3-4/Forward clutch is still applied,
Figure 13
rotating the lower output sun gear,
which rotates the ring gear at a 1.152:1
ratio.
5th Gear: 4-5-6/Input (rotating
clutch) and 3-5-Reverse clutches (rotat-
ing clutch) are applied.
The 1-2-3-4/Forward clutch releas-
es. The 3-5-Reverse clutch is now
applied, driving the upper sun gear in
the output gearset. At the same time,
engine torque travels through the 4-5-
6/Input hub, driving the carrier, which Figure 14

42 GEARS January/February 2008


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PLAYING TO WIN

A FREE GIFT:
Whats the Catch? by Thom Tschetter

A
s I was doing my Christmas for getting publicity for your business.
shopping last month, I noticed Ive shared a variety of ideas for cross
a lot of signs and advertising promotions, and many of you have
offering FREE GIFTS. I pondered contacted me with some even more
that and wondered to myself, If its creative ideas that you applied to make
truly a gift, why attach the word free them work better. Cross promotions are
to it? After all, arent all gifts free? marketing strategies that utilize unique,
Imagine what it would feel like if every highly-targeted advertising tactics that As a result of my recent obser-
time you received a gift from a loved extend your reach in nontraditional, vations, it occurred to me that one
one they said, Heres a free gift. low- and no-cost ways. other thing that most cross promotions
That led me into one of my quests To fully review the details for an include is some sort of a FREE
for the truth. Heres an observation effective cross promotion, I recom- something. So how do we overcome the
Im not saying its right; Im just mak- mend you dig out my GEARS articles whats the catch? reaction? And more
ing an observation. The minute the since last March and review them. specifically, how can we retain more of
word FREE is put in front of any- Youll not only find the key elements the leads our advertising creates and
thing, it isnt really going to be FREE for a successful cross promotion, but at the same time reduce the effect of
in the truest sense of the word. Brace youll also find out about a number of the whats the catch? concern weve
yourself, but there will be some cost great cross-promotional ideas. unwittingly built into our customers?
in terms of time, inconvenience, and In review, the criteria for a cross As an industry, weve used FREE
yes, even money to get your FREE promotion includes the following key to get people to come in to our shops for
GIFT there will be some strings factors: years. Many have and still do offer free
attached. 1. Two or more non-competing busi- road tests, towing and even diagnostics.
Be honest: whenever something is nesses will participate together Why do we do that really? Isnt it
FREE, dont you immediately ask, financially and involvement of just to get the car into the shop so well
whats the catch? If you dont, maybe time. have better odds of making the sale?
you should. I noticed that many times 2. All participating businesses will Of course thats the reason, and youre
to get my FREE GIFT I had to buy benefit proportionately from the only kidding yourself if you dont think
one or more of something else. Maybe cross promotion. your customers know it, too.
I dont really want the something 3. All participating businesses should Oh, well justify ourselves by say-
else, but to get the FREE GIFT Ill share similar values in terms of ing that we have to do it because the
buy it anyhow maybe I can give it to product and service quality as well competition is doing it, or that we need
somebody as a gift; at least it might end as their customer service culture. to check the car first to give the cus-
up being a truly free gift. So lets talk 4. The target customers of the partici- tomer the honest facts about what needs
about FREE. pating businesses should be demo- to be done. I do believe these are valid
Since last March, the focus of graphically similar. concerns, but the truth is we continue
my articles has been on creative ideas these practices because were either

44 GEARS January/February 2008


scared to start charging, or nobody has x-rays? Well as you might guess, I Notice that the charity theyve
shown us a better way to do it. Well, I was getting prices that were all over partnered with is a universal favor-
think Ive found a better way to do it, the board. But the last call I made ite and not controversial.
and believe it or not, its another form stopped me in my tracks and they got Notice that she established why
of cross promotion. the appointment with ease. They would they do it and didnt hide from the
Any of you whove been to my have gotten the appointment even if I fact that they want your business.
seminars have heard me say, Prospect had called them first. Notice that there is no initial
where your feet are. I say it all the Heres what the receptionist said: whats the catch? reaction.
time. Prospect where your feet are for We know you have many choices Do you think the charity might
business; prospect where your feet are for chiropractic care, and we really also be a source of leads and direct
for employees; and prospect where your would like you to choose us for your business since theyll be getting
feet are for new ideas. You never know chiropractic needs. We also know that regular checks from your busi-
when the next new customer, superstar unless you come in for a diagnosis, two ness?
employee, or great new idea is going to things will happen: Youll most likely
show up. So always be on the lookout choose somebody else, and we wont This is one cross promotion where
by prospecting where your feet are. get the chance to earn your business. everyone truly wins!
Heres an example. I recently had So we do something a little differ- For more information on this or
a need to go to a chiropractor. Having ent than anyone else. Even though the any other management topic, please
recently moved to the Phoenix area normal charge for a first visit, checkup dont hesitate to contact me by phone
from the Pacific Northwest, I just start- and x-rays is $150, if you make a dona- at 480-883-6404 or email to:
ed calling around. I had some knowl- tion of at least $25 to the Boys & Girls thom@atra.com.
edge of the process because Ive done Clubs of America, we dont charge you
business consulting for a number of for your initial checkup and x-rays. Its Thom Tschetter is a nationally acclaimed
business speaker, ATRA management trainer, cer-
chiropractors in the past. that simple: You just make your check
tified AMI instructor and radio personality.
Their business is similar to ours; out, drop it in the donation box, and we Thom reminds us that much of the success
they make their money on the adjust- do the rest. we enjoy comes from things weve learned from
ment visits and getting you to come Wow how could I say no to that others. We encourage you to help by sharing your
back for regular maintenance adjust- offer? Id have to say no to all those own successes, challenges and personal stories.
Thom will turn them into articles that are sure to
ment visits every few months. I knew kids, too! I dont think I need to say
be learning experiences for everyone. If you want
from previous experience that the first much more about how you can use to keep it confidential, well honor that request.
step was going to be a checkup with this same cross promotion to get more Mail your contributions to Thom Tschetter
x-rays, followed by some number of appointments for your shop, and at the c/o ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA
follow-up visits, depending on the diag- same time take away the skepticism 93030. Thoms telephone number is 480-883-
6404; or email thom@atra.com. Please include
nosis. over the word FREE while building
the words Management Info in the subject line.
Of course, just like our customers, goodwill and credibility. Here are some We look forward to hearing from you.
who dont know what else to ask, I was keys that might not be so obvious:
asking how much? more specifi- Notice that she established the
cally, how much for the checkup and value at $150.

Transmission Specialties offers a Builder Program designed


to fit your business requirements. If youre building
high performance converters, let us supply you quality
converter parts and offer a package with our high
performance transmissions to your existing converter
customers. If youre building transmissions, we can
provide virtually every hard part at a competitive price
and you can offer our spragless converter line to your
customer. We will spec and build the converter for you and
will handle any questions or stall adjustments from the customer.
Our goal is to work with you and help you
expand your business. Call or email us and
well tailor a no risk program for you.

GEARS January/February 2008 45


Keeping Up by Steve Bodofsky

Translating Engine Vacuum


Measurements
I f you go into your doctors office,
complaining of whatevers mak-
ing the rounds this month, one
of the first things they do is take your
temperature and blood pressure.
They dont do that just to annoy you
and run up the bill although theres
little doubt thats part of the appeal for
them. But mainly they do them because
those simple measurements tell them a
lot about your overall health, and warn
them if theres something serious that
needs their attention.
Thats not so different from auto
repair. Think about how much infor-
mation you can get from a mainline
pressure test; information about the
transmission pump, regulators, clutch- Figure 1: There are three basic types of engine vacuum: manifold, ported
es, accumulators and more all from a and venturi. The difference depends on where they originate in relation
to the throttle plate.
simple pressure check.
Theres also a simple test you can we tend to think of atmospheric pres- big difference is where they occur in
perform to help analyze engine and sure as the zero point, on what might relation to the throttle plate (figure 1).
performance problems. Measuring the easily be considered a relative pressure Manifold Vacuum This is the
engines manifold vacuum is a great scale. Anything less than 14.7 PSI we type of vacuum we think of for engine
way to evaluate the condition of the consider to be vacuum. diagnostic purposes. Manifold vacuum
engine, exhaust system, and many of We measure this vacuum level on originates below the throttle plate. It
the emission devices that can affect a scale of inches of mercury (in/Hg). tends to be high at idle, and drops as the
driveability. Absolute vacuum, or zero PSI, is about throttle opens. At full throttle or stall,
To understand how to use these 29.92 in/Hg on our relative pressure manifold vacuum should drop back to
vacuum readings, you must first under- scale. almost 0 in/Hg. Manifold vacuum also
stand what vacuum is, and be able to When the pistons in an engine tends to reach its peak on deceleration,
recognize the three different types of are moving and the valves opening when the throttle plates are closed but
engine vacuum youre likely to run and closing, the combination of these the engine is running faster than at
into. actions creates a low pressure zone in idle.
the intake manifold; manifold vacuum. Ported Vacuum Ported vacuum
What is Engine Vacuum? Its from this manifold vacuum that all originates just before the throttle plates.
Look around you; everywhere you other engine vacuums are created. Its usually about zero in/Hg at idle, and
look, theres atmosphere. Thats a good increases with throttle opening until
thing: Without it, breathing would be Three Types of it equals manifold vacuum. At heavy
fairly difficult. While we all know its Engine Vacuum throttle opening it varies with manifold
there, its easy to forget that atmosphere There are three basic types of vac- vacuum. Ported vacuum is often used
has weight: 14.7 PSI at sea level. But uum created in todays engines. All are to control EGR valves and ignition
since thats more or less where we live, created from the same basic source; the vacuum advance in older cars.

46 GEARS January/February 2008


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Keeping Up Translating Engine Vacuum Measurements
Venturi Vacuum Venturi vac-
uum is similar to ported vacuum, only
lower. It originates much higher on

Because manifold vacuum varies with throttle the throttle housing, so it only gets to
about 46 in/Hg. But venturi vacuum

position and engine RPM, its a great way for the


is actually created by the movement
of air through the venturi, so it wont
really drop off with manifold vacuum.
computer system to monitor engine load. Enter Venturi vacuum is usually used for a
signal vacuum, to control other devic-

the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP) sensor. es, such as an EGR vacuum amplifier.
Its not particularly common on any
vehicles these days.
When discussing engine vacuum
for diagnostic purposes, always assume
youre looking for manifold vacuum,
unless otherwise specified.

MAP Sensor Monitors


Manifold Vacuum
Because manifold vacuum var-
ies with throttle position and engine
RPM, its a great way for the computer
system to monitor engine load. Enter
the Manifold Absolute Pressure (MAP)
sensor. The MAP sensor monitors man-
ifold vacuum, providing the computer
Ready to Shift to a Better with two important measurements:
1. When the engines running,
Insurance Program? the computer uses the MAP sensor sig-
nal to monitor engine load.
Get into Gear with 2. When the engines off or at
wide-open throttle, the computer uses
Heffernan Insurance Brokers. the MAP sensor signal to check baro-
We offer: metric pressure. From this, it gets a
useable indication of altitude, and can
modify fuel delivery to compensate for
Property/Casualty Employee Benefits changes in atmospheric pressure.
Garage Liability/Garage Keepers Medical/Dental
Property/Tool Coverage Vision/Life
Analyzing Manifold
Vacuum
Auto Disability Your first step in checking mani-
Workers Compensation HR Assistance fold vacuum is to connect a vacu-
um gauge. Unless the engine youre
working on has an unused, plugged
Contact us today! manifold vacuum port available, youll
probably want to tee the gauge into an
Property/Casualty Employee Benefits
existing line; that way, you wont dis-
Earl VanBuskirk Jani De La Rosa able a vacuum device thats important
earlv@heffgroup.com janid@heffgroup.com to engine operation.
Paul Wills Shauna Gilbert Normal Operation An engine
paulw@heffgroup.com shaunag@heffgroup.com thats operating normally should pro-
vide between 14 18 in/Hg at idle.
Vacuum levels should drop off instant-
800.234.6787
ly with throttle opening, to almost zero
www.heffgroup.com
in/Hg at wide-open throttle. Vacuum
License #0564249
will increase above 18 in/Hg on decel-
ATRA program facilitated by
eration, and it should hold fairly steady
Heffernan Insurance Brokers and Brant Watson.
at all throttle openings.

48 GEARS January/February 2008


Condition 1 Vacuum is low
at idle; maybe as low as 12 in/Hg or
less. It may still rise above 18 in/Hg on
deceleration, and it holds fairly steady
at all throttle openings. You could be
looking at a vacuum leak, retarded
valve timing, or general engine wear.
Diagnostic Tip If you run into
this condition, check the PCV valve.
The PCV is a calibrated vacuum leak;
the wrong one can show up as a vac-
uum leak, and cause all sorts of per-
formance problems. If youre looking
at a vacuum leak, and the PCV was Figure 2: The best way to check for a leaking EGR valve is to make up a test gas-
replaced recently particularly if it ket that seals one of the passages. Install the gasket and start the engine. If the
was replaced with an aftermarket valve engine smoothes out and idles better with the gasket in place, the EGR is leaking.
always suspect it as the cause of
your vacuum leak.
Condition 2 Vacuum fluctuates
slowly between 14 17 in/Hg, varying
with engine speed. All other conditions
appear normal. This could indicate an
air/fuel problem, ignition timing prob-
lem, or a problem with the EGR valve.
Condition 3 Vacuum pluses Learn how the most successful shop owners of our
rapidly between 14 17 in/Hg; engine industry are dealing with
seems to run rough. Look for an engine Remans vs Custom Rebuilds
problem, such as a burnt valve, worn Employee Compensation
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valve guides, or a worn camshaft.
Advertising and Marketing Strategies
Reaching New Customers
Checking for a Dealing with Extended Warranty Companies
Plugged Exhaust And much more..
The complaint is a lack of power, Be a part of the all new Whats Working E-Mail Forum!
maybe poor gas mileage, too. If the
exhaust is really plugged, youll hear
a whistling noise during a hard accel- The Whats Working program is all about improving your business
eration. One way to test for a plugged based on what the most successful shop owners are doing!
exhaust is with a vacuum gauge. By joining the Whats Working e-mail forum youll have access to great discussions on a
1. Disable the EGR valve The wide range of management topics pertaining to running a successful shop from some of
the greatest minds in our industry. The forum is currently open to the entire industry!
EGR will normally cause vacuum
to drop by at least 2 in/Hg at Sign up today - Join the Whats Working e-mail Forum its FREE!
2000 RPM, so a working EGR will
affect your results. Keep in mind www.atraonline.com/whatsworking
that disabling the EGR may set a
code in the computers memory.
2. Connect your vacuum gauge to
manifold vacuum.
3. Start the engine, and let it warm to
normal operating temperature.
4. Record the vacuum level at idle.
5. Raise engine RPM slowly to 2000
and watch the vacuum gauge. st
*Offer to non-members ends January 31 2008*

If the exhaust is okay, the vacuum


will drop no more than about 1 in/Hg
or so as you raise the throttle, and then
recover.
If the exhaust is plugged, the vac-
uum will drop off more than 2 in/Hg.

GEARS January/February 2008 49


Keeping Up Translating Engine Vacuum Measurements
In severe cases, the vacuum could drop 2. If the EGR isnt opening, it tive orifices to calibrate the EGR for
below 5 in/Hg, and wont recover until can fool the computer into assuming a each engine. Using the wrong orifice
you release the throttle. lower engine load. This can keep the or none at all can cause a severe
While there are a number of areas computer from disabling the converter hesitation and allow manifold vacuum
that can cause an exhaust restriction, clutch, causing a shudder or chuggle on to drop too much on throttle opening.
the most common cause today is a light throttle. If you run into these conditions, check
plugged catalytic converter. In some cases, the EGR can remain the EGR: If it was replaced recently,
stuck slightly open. This can cause suspect an improper calibration as the
Checking EGR Operation rough idling or poor light-throttle per- culprit.
The Exhaust Gas Recirculation or formance. It can also affect fuel effi-
EGR valve is another type of calibrated ciency and emissions, because the com- A Word of Caution
vacuum leak; this time its between the puter can overcompensate by richening One of the biggest problems with
intake manifold and the exhaust. Its the mixture. using manifold vacuum for diagno-
designed to allow a metered amount of The only real way to check for a sis is there are no hard and fast rules
inert exhaust gas to mix with the intake, leak in the EGR is to create a special, about the results. On one car, 18 in/Hg
reducing the combustibility of the mix- temporary gasket, with one set of holes is normal at idle; in another vacuum
ture, which, in turn, lowers combustion blocked off (figure 2, page 49). Install might be only 14 or 15 in/Hg. A regular
temperatures. the test gasket and recheck engine oper- fluctuation in the needle may indicate a
On a normal gasoline engine, the ation. If the engine idles better and fuel burnt valve, or just a bad spark plug. In
EGR should be closed at idle, and will delivery is altered with the test gasket fact, some 4-cylinder engines will get
open at part throttle. A clear, working in place, assume the EGR is faulty. the needle vibrating like crazy, without
EGR valve will cause manifold vacuum Caution Only use this modified anything being wrong.
to drop about 2-3 in/Hg when its open gasket to test the EGR for leaks; always Thats why you should never con-
all the way. This is important for a num- remove it after testing. Never leave a demn a component or system based
ber of reasons: test gasket in place: Itll disable the solely on the vacuum reading. Use it
1. If the EGR isnt opening, EGR, causing combustion temperatures only as an indicator; a pointer, to show
it increases manifold vacuum. This to rise, and increasing NOx levels. you where to look further for a prob-
affects all components that operate on Diagnostic Tip Many aftermar- lem. From there, youll be able to focus
manifold vacuum, including vacuum ket companies make EGRs to fit a wide your diagnosis, to help you find the
modulators. range of engines; they include selec- problem quickly and efficiently.

QUIZ QUESTIONS
1. Which of these isnt a type of engine vacuum? 4. Tech A says the EGR must be working to use
A. Manifold Vacuum manifold vacuum to check for a plugged exhaust.
B. Ported Vacuum Tech B says, if the exhaust is plugged, manifold
C. Vortex Vacuum vacuum will drop at higher throttle openings.
D. Venturi Vacuum Whos right?
A. A only
2. Tech A says a MAP sensor provides the com- B. B only
puter with an engine load signal. C. Both A and B
Tech B says a MAP sensor provides the computer D. Neither A nor B
with an indication of altitude.
Whos right? 5. Which of these conditions could cause manifold
A. A only vacuum to fluctuate slowly between 14 17 in/Hg?
B. B only A. Improper air/fuel mixture
C. Both A and B B. Faulty oxygen sensor
D. Neither A nor B C. Worn spark plugs
D. Nothing; this is a normal condition.
3. If the EGR is plugged or stuck closed:
A. Combustion temperatures will rise.
B. NOx emissions will increase.
C. The converter clutch may hang on too long,
causing a shudder or chuggle.
D. All of the above. Answers: 1. C; 2. C; 3. D; 4. B; 5. A

50 GEARS January/February 2008


Would You Rather Have 60%
Gross Profit or a 20% Net Profit?
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Many of our clients aren't happy with either
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of these choices...find out why.


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The Expo :HYHVWDUWHGDVNLQJJRRGTXHVWLRQVDERXWKRZEHVWWRRSHUDWHDSURILWDEOHEXVLQHVVKRZWR
in October has rekindled the passion of well; so what works for one business may not work
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many shop owners. The "Whats Working" Forum has for another. In fact, this makes sharing sales and
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management. This has fueled emotions, and this is a Since installing ProfitBoost Software, Mark
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to operate a profitable business, how to sell Transmissions, has more decision making information
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choices to his customers that are all profitable for the
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Dean Kuhn, owner of Oceanside Transmission, has Dean Kuhn and Mark Schwartzman. Take the next
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been monitoring and measuring key areas of his step; call and join the hundreds of others who are
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Dean now has access to statistical reports Call ProfitBoost Software for a personal online
24/7, and he can see in real time the effects of any demonstration at 888-274-3776 ext
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videos at www.profitboost.com. ProfitBoost Software
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Mark Schwartzman & Dean Kuhn with


the Whats Working Panel / Expo 2007.
Business Owners & ProfitBoost Software
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Advertorial
Keeping Up

Understanding the
Slide-Bump Shift by Lance Wiggins

I t sounds like the name of a 60s era


dance craze something youd
see on one of those afternoon teen
dance shows. But the slide-bump shift
is a real transmission problem one
complaint.
Make sure you find out exactly
which shift the customer is complain-
ing about, because a slide-bump will
usually only occur during one shift,
What Causes the
Slide-Bump Shift?
To understand what causes a slide-
bump shift, first lets discuss a normal
shift, and what should be happening:
thats easy to fix, once you understand such as the shift from 1st to 2nd, or 2nd During a normal shift on most
what causes it. to 3rd. units, the shift valve strokes. This redi-
A slide-bump is the combination of Once you understand the custom- rects apply oil to the clutches or bands
a slow, slip shift that finishes suddenly ers complaint, go for a road test to necessary to create the next gear range.
with a firm bump. Customers are less verify it. Chances are, youll notice the Most circuits also include an accu-
likely to notice the slide, simply com- nuances of the slide-bump that escape mulator. The accumulator is a type of
plaining about a harsh shift, a lurch, the customers attention; in this case shock absorber, designed to smooth out
or a thump during a shift. This is why the slow, long beginning, followed by the shift by using some of the shifting
its critical to begin any diagnosis with the harsh finish. oil that would otherwise go to a clutch
a road test of your own, to verify the or servo. Think of it as a controlled

Some of the clutch apply oil is diverted


to the accumulator. This reduces clutch
apply pressure and softens the shift.
Once the accumulator bottoms out
apply pressure at the clutch equals line
pressure.

Figure 1: An accumulator acts as a shock absorber for the clutch circuit, to cushion the apply.

52 GEARS January/February 2008


leak. An accumulator consists of a
piston with a spring and/or hydraulic
pressure behind it; if the transmission
uses a shifting band, the servo may
act as an accumulator as the band
releases. An example of this is a 46RE
kickdown servo that serves as an accu-
mulator for the 2-3 shift. An important
point to recognize is that its the speed
by which the accumulator strokes that
determines how itll affect the shift.
The faster the accumulator strokes dur-
ing the shift the softer the shift will be.
The slower it strokes during the shift
the firmer the shift will be. If it moves
too fast you get a slide bump because
the accumulator is diverting so much
oil from the shifting element that it Figure 2: During a normal shift, the shift will finish before the
cant apply. Then, when the accumu- accumulator reaches the end of its travel.
lator bottoms out the pressure at the
apply element spikes to normal, caus-
ing a harsh shift; thats the bump were
talking about.
Another consideration is the place-
ment of the spring. If the spring is com-
pressed during the shift then a stronger
spring will slow down the speed of
the accumulator during the shift. If
the spring relaxes during the shift then
a weaker spring will slow down the
speed of the accumulator during the
shift. Before you replace an accumula-
tor spring for shift-feel reasons youll
need to know whether the spring com-
presses or relaxes during the shift. In
our example well refer to a system that
compresses the spring during the shift
Figure 3: If the accumulator spring is too heavy, or the accumulator has too much
(figure 1). We also use this system for
pressure behind it, the shift will occur too quickly, and itll feel harsh.
the test at the end of this article.
As the apply pressure fills the front
of the accumulator, the accumulator
moves back in its bore; consuming oil
that would otherwise go to the clutch.
This slows the pressure rise in the
clutch circuit. The spring or hydraulic
pressure behind the accumulator resists
the accumulators movement, to adjust
the shift feel characteristics.
When working properly, the shift
will complete before the accumulator
reaches the end of its stroke (figure 2).
If the spring behind the accumula-
tor is too strong, or theres too much
pressure behind the accumulator, the
shift will be firm; even harsh (figure
3).
If the spring behind the accumu-
lator is too weak or broken, theres a Figure 4: If the accumulator spring is too weak, or theres a leak in the
leak in the accumulator, or there isnt accumulator pressure, the shift will be soft and mushy.

GEARS January/February 2008 53


Understanding the Slide-Bump Shift

Figure 5: If the spring is even weaker or theres a big leak in the


accumulator pressure, the shift will complete after the
accumulator bottoms out; this creates a slide-bump shift.

enough pressure behind the accumula- sure to the back of the


tor, you may have a soft, mushy shift accumulator. A leak in
(figure 4). that part of the circuit
But if the spring or pressure behind lowers the accumula-
the accumulator is weak enough that tor resistance, so the
the accumulator reaches the end of its accumulator moves
travel before the gear apply is complete, too easily.
Figure 6: Look over the accumulator assembly and circuits
itll cause a slide-bump shift (figure 5). If you find any- for anything obvious; a broken spring, a damaged sealing
thing wrong in the ring. Fixing that should take care of the slide-bump shift.
Correcting the Slide- accumulator circuit,
Bump Shift take care of that prob- Some transmissions have an accu-
Probably the first step in correcting lem, reassemble the unit, and go for mulator regulator valve that controls
a slide-bump shift is to open the accu- another test drive. Chances are the the pressure applied to the back of
mulator and inspect it thoroughly (fig- slide-bump will be gone. the accumulator. If the accumulator
ure 6). Look for anything obvious, such But if theres nothing obviously regulator uses a spring, increasing the
as a damaged sealing ring or a broken wrong, then youre going to have to spring tension will increase the pres-
spring; a broken accumulator spring is use your understanding of the system sure behind the accumulator.
probably the most common cause for a to correct the problem. In most cases, Regardless of the root cause of
slide-bump shift. thats going to involve installing a the problem, a slide-bump shift is easy
Dont forget to check the accumu- stronger spring behind the accumulator, to fix once you understand how the
lator bore; wear in the bore can easily to firm up the shift a little and force the systems supposed to work.
cause a slide-bump shift, especially if shift to finish before the accumulator
the system is supposed to apply pres- strokes all the way.

Keeping Up Quiz 3. Tech A says a slide-bump shift is


caused when accumulator reaches
A.
B.
A only
B only
1. Which of these problems wont the end of its travel before the shift C. Both A and B
cause a slide-bump shift? is complete. D. Neither A nor B
A. A leaking accumulator circuit Tech B says some units use
B. A burnt clutch pack the band servo as an accumulator. 5. Which of these repairs wont cor-
C. A broken accumulator spring Whos right? rect a slide-bump shift?
D. All of the problems could cause A. A only A. Decreasing line pressure
a slide-bump shift B. B only B. Replacing the accumulator
C. Both A and B spring with a heavier one
2. Tech A says a slide-bump shift D. Neither A nor B C. Replacing the accumulator
could mean the accumulator spring regulator spring with a heavier
is too heavy. 4. Tech A says, when a slide-bump one
Tech B says high line pressure shift occurs, most customers will D. Replacing a damaged accumu-
can cause a slide-bump shift. complain of a soft shift. lator sealing ring
Whos right? Tech B says its important to
A. A only verify the complaint when dealing
B. B only with a slide-bump shift.
C. Both A and B Whos right?
D. Neither A nor B
Answers: 1. B; 2. D; 3. C; 4. B; 5. A

54 GEARS January/February 2008


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automatic parts,
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For a ZF Authorized Distributor in your area, visit www.zf.com/na.

Driveline and Chassis Technology

ZF-707.indd 43 6/6/07 2:48:19 PM


Dont Forget
the Benefit! by Steve Bodofsky

M
ore and more, as we look freshen your breath.
into what it takes to operate But wait, you say. My transmis- Probably one of the best exam-
a successful repair shop in sions arent the same as everyone elses ples of the FAB sales process comes
the new millennium, were discovering down the road. I build a better unit. from the world of antiperspirants. Back
that success isnt just about fixing cars. Fair enough. But how does your when deodorants first turned into anti-
All too often, success is about sales. potential customer know that? Because perspirants, one of the manufacturers
How well you sell can have a dramatic you said so? So did the guy down the advertised their product as including
impact on your bottom line. street. Unfortunately, as far as the cus- the active ingredient aluminum chlor-
The problem with that is most of tomer is concerned, all rebuilt transmis- hydrate. That new ingredient kept you
us came up through the repair ranks. sions are the same. They all shift gears drier and smelling fresh.
We know how to fix cars. Sales werent and transmit power. Customers cant In this case, aluminum chlorhy-
important; the customers came in, you judge the quality of your work until drate was the feature. The advantage
diagnosed the problem, they told you long after theyve made their purchase; was that it kept you drier and fresher
to fix it, and they paid the bill. No sales far too late for it to be of any value to smelling.
at all, really. you. But what about the benefit? That
So today, many shop owners are was implied, rather than stated. The
ill-equipped to handle the level of sales male actors in the commercial who
needed to keep their technicians work- This customer supposedly used the new antiperspirant
ing. They try to learn by watching how were surrounded by beautiful women,
really successful companies sell, such is looking for in close, personal situations. And even
as Disney or Coke. a convenience though the actors were involved in
What they dont realize is that vigorous activities, you could tell that
Disney and Coke dont have to sell their benefit. He the women were still attracted to the
products: Everyone already knows who wants to know men, assumedly because of their lack
they are, and what they sell. The only of dampness and rank odor. And their
things that Disney and Coke do with how long hes smiles proved that they were really,
their advertising is reinforce their trade- going to have really happy to be there.
marks, and keep the public informed The benefit, in this case, was sex
about their latest programs or products. to be without appeal. And, for the record, that anti-
If youre trying to learn how to sell his car. perspirant sold like crazy. Never mind
your transmission repair service, a bet- that every antiperspirant uses alumi-
ter place to take your cues is from the num chlorhydrate or some derivate;
soap or toothpaste companies. These this company sold it as their feature.
are sometimes called parity products, Feature, Advantage, Since they said it first, they pretty much
because theres no discernable differ- Benefit FAB owned it; what were the other compa-
ence between them. So at this point, you need to treat nies going to do, claim they have alu-
Toothpastes all clean and whit- transmission repair as a parity product. minum chlorhydrate too? That would
en your teeth. Most provide fluoride To sell a parity product, you need to just make them copycats. No, the first
to fight cavities, and they all freshen consider three basic issues of sales: company to announce it won that battle,
your breath. One might have a heavier Feature and they got the big sales.
abrasive; another might include baking Advantage
soda; a third might kill germs; but in Benefit
the end they all clean your teeth and or FAB, for short.

56 GEARS January/February 2008


What is a Benefit?
Whats important is that the adver-
tising offered a real benefit to the con-
sumer. What do we mean by benefit?
A benefit is a personal consideration;
one thats going to somehow improve
the consumers life. And its the most
important part of any sales pitch. Its
also the one most people forget about.
There are really only about ten or
twelve benefits in the entire world, and
each one has to do with you, the end
user. Common examples are:
Youll be happier.
Youll be healthier.
Youll live longer. How long is it going to take? How much is it going to cost?
Youll feel more secure. This customer is looking for a conve- This is always the big one. But believe
Youll have more money (not nience benefit. He wants to know how it or not, its not always about the actual
youll save money; thats the long hes going to have to be without price. Very often, what the customer is
advantage). his car. Can you offer him same-day or asking for is whether he really needs to
Youll have a better self- next-day service? Great; hes probably buy a transmission, and whether hes
image. going to be sold. If not, can you offer going to be getting his moneys worth.
Your neighbors will admire him a loaner or a low-cost rental? Once This is where you show him your
you, or be jealous of you again, youve answered the question of certifications and customer referral let-
(remember the dish detergent convenience. ters. And its where you explain, Mr.
ad that closed, and isnt that Feature fast service. Jones, were a transmission shop; thats
a nice reflection on you?) Advantage youll get your car all we do (or thats our specialty). Our
Your life will be easier and back quickly. technicians have the skills and educa-
more comfortable. Benefit convenience. tion to check your car out and diagnose
Youll have more free time. it right. If we determine you need a new
Youll enjoy greater conve- Other convenience issues include transmission, its going to be based on
nience. a clean, comfortable waiting room, so a careful diagnosis, and years of experi-
Youll have greater piece of he can wait to find out whether hes ence.
mind. going to need a rebuild. Or perhaps itll So you can be sure you arent
and of course, the number one include something as simple as driving going to pay for a new transmission
benefit of all time, sex appeal. him home, and picking him up when unless you really need a new transmis-
his car is done. sion. Maybe you just need a simple
Notice that every benefit is about What kind of warranty do you adjustment, or have an electrical prob-
you, the consumer or end user. Benefits offer? This customer is looking for lem. In that case, thats all youll pay for.
are always personal: How the product or a security benefit. He wants to know But if it turns out you do need a new
service affects you, and what youll get that you stand behind your work, and transmission, were going to give you a
out of it. Its the old whats in it for me that he wont be stuck somewhere after fair price for a first-class job. And well
concept. And its critical for any sale. having spent all that money for a new stand behind that job with one of the
transmission. best warranties in the world.
If youre an ATRA Member, you Feature our education and expe-
Whats My Benefit? can show him the benefits of the Golden rience.
Okay, you say, but we dont Rule Warranty. (And, of course, if you Advantage youll never pay for
sell toothpaste or antiperspirant; we arent an ATRA Member, well, theres work you dont need.
sell transmission repair. What kind of never been a better time to join. Sign up Benefit security; piece of mind.
benefits do we have to offer? this morning, and start offering coast-
Thats a good question. Actually, to-coast warranty coverage by noon!) In every case, the critical point of
the benefit you want to sell is the one Feature the Golden Rule the sale was the benefit, and making
thats most important to the customer. Warranty. sure the customer understood exactly
And thats going to vary, depending Advantage coast-to-coast cov- how bringing his car to you would ben-
on the customer. Fortunately, the cus- erage from the largest network of efit him. Thats why its so important
tomers going to tell you exactly what transmission shops in the world. always that you dont forget the
hes looking for: All you have to do is Benefit security. benefit.
listen.

GEARS January/February 2008 57


From the Tech Director

Keeping Up by Lance Wiggins

L
ately, ATRAs been investing How many times a month do you targeted at those concepts that give
a lot of its time and energy to end up throwing parts at a car to todays technicians the most trouble.
helping its members bring more see if one will correct the prob- Basically, were offering you the
customers in the door. Thats a good lem? answers to the test questions. No, were
thing, because without customers, there How many times a month do you not going to tell you what the answer is
isnt much need for tech. have to call the ATRA HotLine to question 3 on the Diagnostician test.
But bringing customers in is just for help? Not for specs or to run In fact, were not really going to answer
half the job. The other half is getting something past another tech, but a the specific questions at all.
them back out. Sounds simple enough, flat-out, help, I dont know what What we are going to do is go over
doesnt it? But as we all know, the to try next? the concepts and principles necessary
technology in todays cars is increasing How many times a month do you to identify the problems covered in the
at an alarming rate. Whats even more get a transmission apart before you test, and help you learn how to answer
alarming is the number of indicators realize there was nothing wrong those questions yourself you know:
that suggest the vast majority of the with it? the way youd have to if you were
technicians in our industry arent keep- How many comebacks or no-goes confronted with those problems in the
ing up. do you see each month? shop.
Thats a real problem, because So, by putting in the effort with the
nothing will put a business out of So whats the acceptable number Keeping Up series, you should be able
business faster than good advertising. for these situations? To be honest, if not only to pass the ATRA Certification
You read that right: Good advertising you can measure any of them on a tests; you should also be able to deal
can actually put you out of business monthly basis youre probably falling with todays technology when it shows
unless your shop can live up to your behind. And if you have any thoughts up at your bay door.
promises. about a future in this business, you need But we cant do it without you.
Think about it: Great advertising to make a concerted effort to start keep- You have to make the commitment to
brings everyone in. But if you cant fix ing up now! your future by investing the time and
the cars, suddenly everyone in town The good news is its not too late; effort to catching up and keeping up
knows it. Just like that, you go from theres still time to catch up, and keep with technology.
busy to out of business. up. And, like the IRS, your ATRA The first thing you can do is stop
So the only way to take advantage Technical Department is here to help worrying about how to fix the cars
of those new customers coming in the the only difference is, we really mean that come into your shop. Thats right:
door is to keep up with the technology it! Forget the fix. Its that quick fix men-
under the hood. And, as we just pointed One of our greatest resources for tality that allowed you to fall behind in
out, a lot of technicians are having discovering the weaknesses in this the first place.
trouble keeping up. industry is the ATRA Certification Instead, start thinking about how
Of course, that isnt you: Youre Program. By examining the test results, the car or system is supposed to work
keeping up just fine, right? Well, maybe. were able to identify trends in the the principles behind the systems that
But before you decide this isnt for you, industry trends that show us the sys- keep the car going. From there, figuring
ask yourself these questions: tems and concepts we need to address. out the cause of the problem is usually
How many times a month do you From that information, were easy.
find yourself stumbling through a beginning a new series here in GEARS: With full effort and dedication
diagnosis? One where youre not Keeping Up. The new series will offer on both our parts youll find
really sure what to do next, so you training targeted at the areas and con- catching up easy and once youve
just start trying things until you fall cepts that todays transmission techni- caught up, you should have no problem
across the answer? cians need. More importantly, theyre keeping up.

58 GEARS January/February 2008


For the Transmission
Identification Chart,
please download separately.
(TransID)
(Pages 59-81)
For the Buyer's Guide Section,
please download separately.
(buyersguide)
(Pages 82-140)
In the Trenches

A Visit to Long Island,


and a Side Trip to by Bill Brayton

New Jersey
Banner Transmission with Banner for 39 years
Bellmore, NY thats longer than any of
One of the coolest things about its present owners! (Figure
being involved in a young industry 2, see page 142.)
such as transmission repair is that you While business isnt
often find close connections with the bad, Cliff was quick to
pioneers who started it all. admit that things arent like
Such is the case at Banner they were back in the fat
Transmission; a business that has its 70s. When asked what his
roots in 1963. One of its founders, goals were for the future in
Edwin Hettinger began in the business the Whats Working survey,
back in the late 50s, as a machinist Cliff said, to survive.
working for Lee Myles (figure 1). Not We live in a dispos-
a Lee Myles franchise: Lee Myles the able society, explains
man and founder of the franchise. Like Cliff. Cars are lasting lon-
I said: cool. ger, and when the car is
Today, Banner Transmission is worn out, consumers are
owned jointly by three men: Steve more likely to replace it
Walczik, Chris Sweeny, and Cliff than they are to spend the
Hettinger; Edwins son. big money for a repair. Figure 1
One of the more interesting things
about these three guys is that they each
bring a different specialty to the table.
Cliff is the automatic transmission spe-
cialist; he runs the bench, and keeps
everything moving smoothly on that
end. Chris specializes in differentials,
standards and transfer cases. And Steve
is the person in charge of customer con-
tact. Which means that virtually every
part of the business is being overseen
by one of the owners.
I dont see how anyone can run a
transmission repair business any other
way, says Cliff. I see these guys
who take on a transmission franchise
with virtually no experience, and I
just dont understand how they do it.
Theyre completely at the mercy of Banner Transmission, Bellmore, NY
their employees. Front Row L to R: Frank Harrison, Daniel Duran Ramon Garcia,
Not that they do it all themselves: Christopher Sweeny, Dennis Bruni;
Back Row L to R: Paul Basso, Mel Fraticelli, Cliff Hettinger,
Banner has 10 employees, includ-
Steven Schenker, Steve Walczik
ing Frank Harrison, Jr., whos been

GEARS January/February 2008 141


In the Trenches Continued

Chris specializes in differentials, standards and transfer cases Steve is the person in charge of customer contact.

Most of our retail work comes


from word-of-mouth referrals, he con-
tinues. In a lot of cases, we worked
on their fathers transmissions back in
the 70s and 80s, and now were see-
ing the kids cars. Were becoming the
familys transmission shop.

Ability Transmissions
Lindenhurst, NY
Sue Cresciamanno and John Halpa are
the owners of Ability Transmissions.
Figure 2: Frank Harrison, Jr. Its not so unusual these days for a
woman to be a shop owner or part
owner. In most cases where the woman
is a partner, its because shes mar-
ried to her business partner, or theres
another relationship, such as brother
and sister. Whats unusual about Sue
and John is that Ability is their only
relationship with one another.
We knew each other when we
were kids, explains Sue. When I grew
up, I became a dental technician, and
was working at a local dentists office.
One day John came in for an exam. We
recognized each other right away, and
spent some time catching up.
John mentioned that he was con-
sidering opening his own shop. He was
a highly-respected transmission techni-
cian in the area. The more we talked,
the more I thought it might be some-
thing we should do together.
Ability had been in business since
1949 under its original owners. They
were looking to sell, but wanted to find
just the right people to take their busi-
ness. We met with them, and hit it off
right away. That was 10 years ago, and
John and I have been working together
ever since.
The relationship between Sue and
Ability Transmissions, Lindenhurst, NY John must be working well: According
L to R: Mike Lapolla, Sue Cresciamanno, John Halpa, to Sue, they have the busiest transmis-
Larry Morejon, Agenor Alexis (Lex) sion shop on Long Island. And one look

142 GEARS January/February 2008


at the parking lot supports that claim.
John runs the shop, and handles the
diagnostic and repair work along with
their three employees. Sue is the office
person: She handles the customers,
deals with sales, and even works as an
outside salesperson, meeting with their
many wholesale accounts on a regular
basis. Sue is quick to acknowledge
how important those outside sales are
to Abilitys success.
Sue attributes much of Abilitys
success to Johns work ethic, particular-
ly his belief in training and education.
They expect their employees to attend
regular seminars and training classes
whenever possible, and are happy to
pay for those classes.
And John tries to hold a staff meet-
ing at least once a week, to keep tabs
on any problems that show up in the
shop, and to make sure everyone is
kept abreast of any changes in the shop
policies, or any technical issues theyve
discovered.
One of the ways they keep their
name in front of the community is by
supporting Lifeline, a program oper-
ated through a local supermarket chain,
which provides free cab rides for people The Trans Shoppe, Livingston, NJ
in emergency situations. L to R: Jeff Zacher, Nancy Zomper, Rob Kiely, Steve Mathewson,
Peter Wingerter, Mike Bartsak, Pat Muller
The Trans Shoppe
Livingston, NJ
Jeff Zacher, owner of The Trans
Shoppe, was in college with plans to be
a shop teacher. That was more than 30
years ago. Back then, Jeff explains,
I was making more pumping gas than
I would have as a teacher.
When the mechanic quit at the gas
station where he was working, he asked
them to give him a shot: I told them,
show me once, and youll never have
to show me again, he says. They gave
him his shot, and he remained true to
his word.
He began his transmission career
when the local Lee Myles was looking You could easily mistake his customer service area and waiting room for a
lawyers office. I wanted the waiting room to convey the type and quality work
for an R&R tech. He began learning
that we do, explains Jeff.
how to rebuild while he was there,
starting with RDIs (Remove, Dismantle more than a side job. He opened his of his first projects was to create a new
and Inspect). It wasnt long before he first transmission shop in Madison, NJ waiting room and customer service
began rebuilding, working in different about 21 years ago. Three years ago he area; one that can help instill a sense of
shops around the area. moved his operation to a better location confidence in the customer.
Jeff started his transmission busi- in Livingston. How successful was he? You could
ness on the side, working out of his Over the last three years, Jeff easily mistake his customer service
mothers garage. It wasnt long before has devoted most of his attention to area and waiting room for a lawyers
his business grew to where it became revamping and updating his shop. One office. I wanted the waiting room to

GEARS January/February 2008 143


In the Trenches Continued
convey the type and quality work that
we do, explains Jeff.
Hes even air conditioned his
shop; not a common practice in the
Northeastern region. But Jeff discov-
ered that, when his technicians are
more comfortable theyre more produc-
tive, so the air conditioning easily pays
for itself.
Jeff is very concerned by the pub-
lics view of auto technicians. He con-
siders auto repair a profession, and
wants to be accepted that way. Years
ago, my wife had a caricature artist do a
drawing of me, he says. He drew me
all greasy, with a greasy rag hanging
out of my back pocket. I was insulted;
I didnt want to be that guy. Were not
Jeff Zacher and Nancy Zomper in the revamped waiting room
grease monkeys.
and customer service area.
One thing Jeff has noticed has
been a dramatic change in the market
over the last few years: Nearly any-
thing thats on the road for more than
10 years is a work vehicle, such as a
pickup or van. A personal vehicle thats
over 10 years old, with nearly 100,000
miles that needs a trans? Thats a hard
sell.
How is Jeff bringing work into
the shop? We revamped the shop, to
where it now looks nicer than the res-
taurant next door. Then we parked three
muscle cars out front: a 70 Challenger,
a 70 Chevelle, and a 70 Chevelle SS
Convertible. I grew up working on
those muscle cars; its something of
my forte.
When an antique owner comes
into the shop, he starts by asking, Can
Jeff discovered that an air conditioned shop makes his technicians more
you do the job? and How long will
comfortable and more productive, so the air conditioning easily pays for itself.
it take? The last question on his mind
is How much? So, where our regular
repair business may have dropped off
a bit, our antique and classic busi-
ness has grown. And, of course, once
theyve developed a relationship with a
customer to fix their antique or classic
car, theyre more likely to get a crack
at the family car when it needs a trans-
mission.

To help bring in work to the shop, they parked three muscle cars out front:
a 70 Challenger, a 70 Chevelle, and a 70 Chevelle SS Convertible.

144 GEARS January/February 2008


ATRA NEWS

ATRA Members: ATRA Profiles!


Save Big on Training
with DriveTek and Shaun Velasquez;
ATRA! BookStore Manager
Vanessa Velasquez;
Seminars and throughout their high school years,
Convention Manager sharing many of the same friends. But
When you first learn that Shaun they didnt begin dating until after
and Vanessa Velasquez are a married graduation. They married while work-
DriveTek Transmission Training couple, its only natural to assume they ing at ATRA, and today have a 5-year-
Academy in Jeffersonville, Indiana, has met at work. But these two got to know old son, Isaac.
been offering specialized transmission one another before they ever came Vanessa came to ATRA in 1998,
training programs for 10 years. Their to ATRA long before. In fact, they answering phones in the Membership
standard rebuilder program is a three- first met as kids, when they were both department part time. She soon became
week, 120-hour, intensive training pro- about 5 years old and they have the a fulltime employee, and worked her
gram covering up to three different pictures to prove it. way up through the ranks to become the
manufacturers transmissions. This pro- Shaun went to school with my Membership Services Manager. About
gram normally sells for $2000; a great cousin since about the first grade, 3 years ago she was asked to move
deal in anyones book. explains Vanessa. We have pictures of from Membership into a new position
But now, as part of their 10-year the two of us at a birthday party, sitting as ATRAs Seminars and Conventions
celebration, DriveTek has joined with at the same table. Manager.
ATRA to put together a special program They attended different elementary Shes the one who handles the
for the first 10 ATRA Member Shops schools, but they went to high school behind-the-scenes details for Expo and
to respond. Sign up for the standard together. There, Shaun made a name ATRAs technical seminars all the
rebuilders program for the first quarter for himself playing football; he played stuff you dont really think about
of the new year, and you can take part strong safety. until it isnt there. Sort of the unsung
in this exciting training for just $1000; In my senior year we went on to hero for keeping ATRAs programs
thats half the regular price a savings beat Lance [Wiggins]s school for the afloat.
of $1000! championship game, which is pretty You know that coffee that shows
Send one technician for three weeks cool, says Shaun. I give him a hard up around the break time? Shes the one
of in-depth training, or send a different time about that whenever I can. who scheduled it. The signs that show
technician to cover a different manufac- Shaun did well enough on the foot- you the way to the seminar rooms? The
turer each week. Learn detailed rebuild ball field to have college scouts talking vendors who set up to help sponsor the
procedures for the transmission manu- to him. But a back injury and subse- event? Vanessa. Shes even the one who
facturers of your choice, with a hands- quent surgery took him off the gridiron makes the arrangements with the hotel
on program thats second to none. permanently. or school in your area for the seminar
Remember, this is an exclusive The two hung out together to take place.
offer for ATRA Members, and there
are only 10 slots available, so dont
wait another minute: Call Becky Ramer
at DriveTek 812-284-2930 right away,
and take advantage of this once-in-a-
lifetime deal today!

GEARS January/February 2008 145


ATRA NEWS

For years, my ideal job was to


be a wedding planner, says Vanessa.
Then I was offered this position doing
the seminar and meeting planning, and available exclusively through the ATRA
I thought, I can do that. Not coin- BookStore.
cidentally, she recently opened a side Shaun is quick to admit that going
business, Weddings by Vanessa. While from BookStore staff to management
not exactly the same, shes quick to was a big change. Back when I was
acknowledge the similarities between working in the store, Id be handling
meeting planning and wedding plan- the orders and making up invoices,
ning: Theyre both about organiza- and Id call over to Mike and say, Are
tion, she says. you doing anything? and hed tell me,
Shaun first came to ATRA dur- Youll see youll see one day. He
ing its move from Ventura to Oxnard. was right; theres a lot that goes into the
At the time he was working for Coors job that you just dont realize until its
brewery, stocking shelves and gener- your turn. It took a little time to grow stay home. But we finally went, and
ally helping out as needed (Sounds like into it, but today theres little doubt that now he cant wait to go back.
a dream job, doesnt it?) But ATRA Shaun has made the job his own. And while they both enjoy their
needed help moving the BookStore into Whats it like working together time at home, those moments are often
its new digs, and Vanessa suggested with your better half? We dont see few and far between. To begin with,
Shaun might be interested. one another as often as you might Vanessa is currently attending college
They were so happy with his think, says Shaun. We work different to earn her bachelors degree in busi-
work during the move that later, when shifts, so we come in separately, and ness. And they bought a new house last
they needed someone to work in the work in different areas of the building. year, which theyre working on, to
BookStore full time, they asked Shaun Sometimes we can go for days without make it our own.
if hed be interested. He was. crossing paths. Shaun spends most of his spare
After a few years with ATRA, then Of course, working different shifts time working out and playing with
BookStore Manager Mike Helmuth left has its advantages, too. Isaac is in kin- Isaac. And when he has time, he likes
to start his own company, and asked dergarten now, so Vanessa gets him off playing pool at his fathers house, which
Shaun to come with him. Shaun worked to school in the morning before coming is just a couple blocks away. He plays in
with Mike for about a year before being to work, and I finish in time to pick him a league once a week. Is he any good?
lured back to ATRA as the BookStore up, explains Shaun. And when time Im okay Im getting there. My dad
Manager. gets short, each of their families live can still clean my clock, but Im getting
In addition to taking and filling nearby, and are happy to lend a hand. there.
orders, hes in charge of evaluating exist- In their spare time, both Shaun When asked what they liked most
ing product, ordering stock, monitoring and Vanessa describe themselves as about working at ATRA, both Shaun
inventory, creating product promotions, homebodies. They enjoy spending and Vanessa were of one voice: The
and purchasing new programs for the time together, just relaxing and sharing people. Everyone here is pretty close. It
BookStore to offer. His latest acquisi- the moment. Although Vanessa is more makes for a great working environment.
tions include the ATRA Appointment of a traveler than Shaun: A few years Everyone gets along; it makes it fun
Pad, and the new book, Building Blocks ago I broached the idea of going to coming to work every morning.
of Electrical Diagnosis; both currently Hawaii and Shaun was like, Id rather

146 GEARS January/February 2008


Lance Wiggins
ATRA Technical Lance Wiggins
Director
For many people, the auto repair
industry is a calling. For Lance Wiggins,
ATRA technical director, it began as a
need for high school credit. In his junior
year, he needed additional credit time to
remain on track to graduate. The only
course available was an automotive
class, and that was only for seniors. But
the school made an exception for him.
By the time he reached his senior
year, Lance was the shop foreman,
and he graduated from high school with
a 3.85 grade point average. But the
class didnt just help him meet his aca-
demic requirements; it also provided
him with a foundation for what was to
become his lifelong career.
While still in school, Lance interned
at a local gas station. There he met Pete
Huscher now an ATRA Technical
Advisor, then the service manager for
Ojai Ford. When the gas station closed,
Pete asked Lance to come to work for almost every day,
him at the dealership. and takes part in organized
Pete moved on to another Ford rides in his area. He loves fishing with
dealer, and it wasnt long before he his kids, enjoys coaching football at
asked Lance to join him. Lance made the local high school, and working as
the move, and came on as a line techni- an umpire for a local youth and high
cian. Then the transmission tech left, school age baseball league.
and Pete asked Lance to take the trans- His biggest goal is to be happy; so
mission job. far, he thinks hes doing pretty well with
Over the next eight years, Lance that. I do a lot of planning in my work;
immersed himself in learning his craft, planning for seminars and Expo some
taking 93 courses through Ford. I was three years in advance. In my life, I pre-
just a step away from receiving my fer to live in the moment. I want to be
masters certification from Ford when I there when most people arent.
left to work for ATRA, says Lance.
Lance worked on the ATRA
HotLine for about a year when the
technical directors job opened up. He
applied for it, and after a lengthy deci-
sion process, he got the job. Since then
its been a constant learning process,
he said.
Today, in addition to being ATRAs
technical director, hes an award-win-
ning author and sought-after seminar
instructor. His favorite thing about
working for ATRA? Every days a
learning experience, he says.
Lance and his wife Holly have four
kids: Tyler, 16, Paige, 13, Elenna, 8,
and William, 5.
In his spare time, Lance enjoys
riding motorcycles; he rides to work

GEARS January/February 2008 147


POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
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 pressrelease@gearsmagazine.com or
send by mail to GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030.

LUBEGARD Announces
products, announced Jake Loewen professional.
Winners of Seal-E-Zee from Penner Auto in Seminole, Texas To find out more about pur-
Cone Sets was the grand prize winner in the 1st chasing cores and other components
LUBEGARD Bingo Game at ATRA's from AA Midwest, contact 800-
2007 Powertrain Expo. 826-7403, 773-624-6111, or visit www.
Loewen walked away with an addi- aamidwestcores.com.
tional $1200 after the final round of
LUBEGARD Bingo. Bingo was a tre- 2008 LuK RepSet Catalog
mendous success, says Kristen Clark,
marketing manager for ILI. We had
Available in Print/Online
over 330 people compete over two days
International Lubricants, Inc. (ILI), and we had fun giving away lots of
makers of LUBEGARD brand prod- money. Whats in store for next year?
ucts, announced the winners of the Clark wont comment, but says there
Seal-E-Zee cone set drawing at ATRA's will be something to give visitors a rea-
Powertrain Expo in Las Vegas. John son to stop by the LUBEGARD booth.
Buber from Tri-City Transmission in For more information on
Rochester, NH won Fridays draw- LUBEGARD, KOOL-IT, Squeak
ing, and Freddie Free from Freddie's Relief, Pro II 9000 or Dr. Tranny
Transmission Service in Dallas, TX won products, contact ILI toll free (800)
on Saturday. 333-5823 (LUBE) or visit their web site
To participate, visitors were asked at www.Lubegard.com. Schaeffler Group USA Inc. is
to drop off their business cards at the pleased to announce the release of the
Seal-E-Zee demo area. We had over AA Midwest is Leading 2008 LuK RepSet Catalog, featuring
500 people playing, says Kristen Clark, clutch coverage for 95% of all vehicles,
marketing manager for ILI. The demon-
Trans Core Supplier including 58 new clutch sets. The 2008
stration leaves no doubt that this is one edition will help clutch professionals
of the most innovative solutions for seal find the information and parts they need
seating available. With the cones, techni- for a complete repair, and includes:
cians have an endless number of solu- LuK RepSet clutch sets, which
tions to very difficult seal problems. come complete with a premium-
For more information on quality LuK pressure plate, disc
LUBEGARD, KOOL-IT, Squeak and release bearing, and a pilot
Relief, Pro II 9000 or Dr. Tranny bearing or bushings (as required).
products, contact ILI toll free (800) 333- With one of the largest inventories Conventional, dual-mass and alu-
5823 (LUBE) or visit their web site at of engine, transmission and internal minum performance flywheels.
www.Lubegard.com. part cores, AA Midwest is still a lead- Master and slave cylinders.
ing source for engine and transmission Clutch cables, forks and specialty
Jake Loewen Wins $1200 rebuilders. tools.
AA Midwests inventory includes Technical bulletins and up-to-the-
Playing LUBEGARD Bingo over 150,000 engines, transmissions and minute information from LuK on
other internal parts cores. Established special applications and proce-
in 1949, AA Midwest is a division of dures, including flywheel step and
AAEQ Manufacturers and Recyclers, cup dimensions.
and is the source for hard-to-find cores The 2008 LuK RepSet Catalog
for cars and light trucks. also features LuK PRO GOLD
AA Midwest provides valuable PERFORMANCE high-performance
information to customers on whether clutch sets, specifically engineered for
new, remanufactured or reclaimed will extreme vehicle applications.
L to R: Bingo winner Jake Loewen
work best for the engine or transmis- Contact your LuK distributor for a
with Sam Memmolo
sion project theyre working on. Their copy of the 2008 LuK RepSet Catalog
International Lubricants, Inc. extensive knowledge has helped them or log onto www.lukclutch.com/catalog
(ILI), makers of LUBEGARD brand gain the reputation as the partner to the for the most current information.

148 GEARS January/February 2008


Corteco Names Lopes cooler return line, and is a terrific addi-
Market Segment Director tion for units that exhibit converter
drainback symptoms.
For more information about the
Watchdog Plus or any other Superior
products, call toll-free at 1-800-451-
3115 or stop by their web site at www.
superior-transmission.com.

Allomatic Now Exclusive


Cassio Lopes Distributor for NTZ OE
Bradley Norton, President of Filter Element for 5R110W
Corteco Americas announced the Allomatic Products Company
appointment of Cassio Lopes to announced it is the exclusive dis-
Market Segment Director for Cortecos tributor of the NTZ OE Super Duty
Original Equipment Services (OES) and 5R110W bypass filter element. This fil-
CoManufacturing (CoMan) businesses. ter featured in November/December
Lopes will support Cortecos strate- 2007 GEARS Shop Talk is used
gic initiatives to reduce costs, improve on all Ford F-Super Duty, Excursion,
product quality, and continue to improve Econoline, motorhome, and Low Cab
service to the OES and co-manufactur- Ford models, 2003-2007, to provide
ing customers. improved performance and durability.
Cassio joined Freudenberg- The key to this system is NTZs
NOK Components in Brazil in 1998 unique, radially-wound, depth-type fil-
as an account manager and most ter element. Its patented compression
recently served as account manager technology provides better than 99%
in the Automotive Products Group. removal of particles 5 microns and
Lopes earned his BS in Metallurgical larger. It eliminates water and chemi-
Engineering, and holds two post- cal contaminants and has the highest
graduate degrees in Engineering and dirt-holding capacity, making it the best with Wolfgang and Dirk Bayer at the
Business. choice for heavy service vehicles. helm, with over 53 years combined
For additional information, please NTZ Micro Filtration is rec- experienced in automotive excellence.
visit www.freudenberg-nok.com. ognized for manufacturing the best Wolfgang Bayer has a Masters Degree
performing micro-filtration system for in Automobile Engineering from
Superior Introduces transmission applications. This filter, Mercedes-Benz, Stuttgart, Germany.
now available exclusively through Both are Mercedes-Benz Master Guild
Watchdog Plus Filter Allomatic, is OE-tested and approved, Technicians.
and Drainback Valve QS 9000/ISO 9001/TS 16949 certified, Peter Schmid Transmissions is a
and comes with an O-ring. ZF-authorized distributor in Northern
For more information, please con- California. Its transmissions are reman-
tact the Allomatic at 800-568-0330. ufactured to factory specifications,
updated with the latest factory informa-
MZF-Bayer Inc. is tion available, and dyno tested.
Superior Transmission Parts is Their product is covered by a 2-
proud to announce the release of the
Now Peter Schmid year, unlimited mileage warranty. Call
newest addition to its Simple Solution Transmissions toll-free 1-800-372-TRAN (8726) for
product line: The Watchdog Plus information and prices.
Monitor/Filter and Drainback Valve;
item #K082. Growth Leads to
The Watchdog Plus combines a
cooler line filter and converter drain-
Revamped ALLDATA
back valve. Its monitor feature allows Product Line
you to open the filter, to examine any Jeff Lagges, President of ALLDATA
debris for signs of transmission failures. LLC, has announced the rebranding
It also includes a bypass check valve, of ALLDATA's product line. "It was
to ensure adequate flow if the filter The tradition of Peter Schmid time to consolidate our brands under
becomes clogged. Transmissions quality workman- the ALLDATA umbrella," says Lagges.
It can be used on any 3/8" or 5/16" ship and dependable service continues "We have tremendous equity in the

GEARS January/February 2008 149


Atmore AL 36504 251.368-7777 Fax: 251.446.7774 altoUSA.com

Alto Products Corp Alto Way Atmore AL 36504 251.368-7777 Fax: 251.446.7774 altoUSA.com
POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
ALLDATA name, and it makes sense been overlooked in the past, but now Oroville, California and Don Mercer
to promote the 'ALLDATA quality' we you can do one more thing to make this of DOT Trans in Alberta, Canada. Both
Powerglide Extended
build into every product." Case Bushing unit more reliable, said Pete Santiago, will enjoy one-day Driving Experiences
ALLDATA's rebranded product vice-president of Hi-Performance Sales in actual race cars at facilities near
Alto Part No. 019203X
suite includes all the necessary infor- at Alto Products. This product will be them, compliments of Transtar.
mation, management and marketing a must for every Powerglide rebuild. The theme of Transtars booth,
e Extended toolsCase that Bushing
professional automotive For more information on this and Racing into the Future, embodies
to Part No.
announce 019203X
therepair
availability
shops need:of a newly designed Extended Casestop
other Alto products, Bushing,
by their web the customer-oriented approach to its
ALLDATA Repair Powerglide
Auto man- Extended
e Powerglide transmission. The bushing is designed to provide additional site at Case Bushing
www.altoUSA.com. partnership with Axiom Automotive
ufacturers' diagnostic and repair Technologies. The new Transtar now
put shaft in the information
AluminumforPowerglide Alto
case. PartThe No. 019203X
bushing is over .200
repair profession- Transmission Specialties offers the largest product line of high-
ability
ect of a newly
replacement designed
bushing
als and Extended
andowners.
vehicle does not require Case anyBushing,
machining of the case. quality transmission parts, a distribu-
mission. the
tabilizes The bushing
output
ALLDATA shaftis designed
and
Manage prevents to itprovide
A strategic
Introduces
from eating additional 8" Opel
into the shaft as the tion network providing same-day deliv-
Alto
luminum is pleased
Powerglide to announce
case. The the
roller bearing replacement has a tendency to do.
Shop Management availability
bushing
Solution, avail- is Impeller
over of a newly
.200 Pump and
designed Turbine
ExtendederyCase
to overBushing,
90% of the top markets, and
PN 019203X
ushing and doesfor ablenotin Basic
therequire and
PowerglideElite versions.
transmission.
any machining of theThe bushing is designed to provide additional team in the
case. the most knowledgeable
ALLDATA Market An online industry.
ved support
ut shaft
a great to
andresponsethe
prevents output
Customer
shaft
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Aluminum needPowerglide
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as gain
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advantage overmore.200information about
longer
one and
eplacement
lding hasisALLDATA
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transmissions.
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Factory- This isand onedoesof thenot require
areas any machining
that have Transtar of Industries,
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inThe
the added
past, but length
now you
correct stabilizes
repaircan dotheoneoutput
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make it from
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at www.transtarindustries.com.
se from the
Santiago, collision
true racer. You
Vice-President roller bearing
professional.
need to gain any
of Hi-Performance replacement
Salesadvantagehas a tendency
at Alto Products. This to do.
New logos unify the look of each RANCHOS Ultimate
racing transmissions.
will be a must for every
product.
This is
Powerglide
Marketing
one
materials will
of the
rebuild,
start
areas that have
added Santiago.
owThe
you product
can using
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clutch manufacturer
been
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and drypast,
added butSantiago.
clutches, now
steelyouplatescanand do stampings
one more to thing
OE to make this unit more
reliable, said Visit
Pete www.alldata.com for more
utomotive, Truck
information.
andSantiago, Vice-President
Bus, Agricultural, Marine,ofBrake, Hi-Performance
Motorcycle,Sales and at Alto Products. This
independently
Corporate product
owned
headquarterswill
andbe
are a mustinfor
operated
located every
clutch
Alabama Powerglide
manufacturer
and the company rebuild, added Santiago.
operates
wet
ing and dry7Alto
plants, clutches,
warehousessteel
Announces plates
and and stampings
facilities in Canada, to OE and
Mexico
Transmission Europe.
Specialties of Aston,
AltoBus,
and Products is the oldest
Agricultural, and
Marine,
Powerglide Extended largest
Brake, independently
Motorcycle,
PA is proudandowned and
to introduce operated
the 8" Opel clutch manufacturer
in the industry.
arters are located Alto manufactures wet and dry
Impeller
in Alabama and the company operates
Case Bushing clutches,
Pump and steel
Turbine. plates
This and stampings to OE
after-
market torque converter hasnt been
manufacturers
houses in Automotive,
and facilities in Canada,Truck
Mexico and Bus,
and Agricultural, Marine, Brake, Motorcycle, and
Europe.
produced since the early 1970s and RANCHO PERFORMANCE
Industrial markets. Corporate headquarters has arebeen
located in impossible
virtually Alabamatoand findthe company
TRANSAXLESoperates
latest version of their
to 3 US manufacturing plants, 7 warehouses and facilities in Canada, Mexico and Europe.
until now. legendary PRO-STREET transaxle is
03X
Coupled with Transmission arguably the finest high performance
OE Style
Specialties new, aftermarket 073 alu- street transaxle on the market. Featuring
Bushing
minum or steel stator and billet front the finest components and craftsman-
cover, you can now manufacture a com- ship, every RANCHO PRO STREET is
plete 8" race converter, affordably and built to exceed the requirements of each
Alto OE Style
019203X Bushing in less time without having to resort individual customer.
to hard-to-find junkyard cores. Each PRO-STREET features:
OE Style
For more information, contact Ken 4-Spider Super Differential
Alto is pleased to introduce a Bushing
Kelly at Transmission Specialties at 610- Heavy Duty Aluminum Side
newly designed extended case bushing, 485-9110 or at kenktsi@comcast.net. Cover
PN 019203X, for Powerglide transmis- Welded 3-4 Hubs
sions. The bushing provides additional Transtar Awards Steel Shift Forks
support to the output shaft in the alumi- Hardened Keys
num Powerglide case.
Driving Experiences Welded T/O Shaft
The bushing is over 0.200" longer at Powertrain Expo Most importantly, RANCHO pro-
than the original; its a direct replace- Transtar Industries awarded two vides one-on-one contact with a veteran
ment bushing and doesnt require any lucky winners a full-day driving expe- transaxle technician. These seasoned
case machining. The added length sta- rience from RacingSchools.com at specialists help customers choose the
bilizes the output shaft and prevents it ATRAs recent Powertrain Expo trade proper package and then provide valu-
from eating into the shaft the way roller show in Las Vegas. Attendees competed able follow up assistance.
bearing replacements do. against each other in racecar simulators Available in PRO-SWING and
You need any advantage you can in the Transtar booth. PRO-IRS models, RANCHOS PRO
find when rebuilding one of these rac- The two winners were Jeremy STREET start at $629.95.
ing transmissions. This is one area thats Koppubery of Dirks Trans Service in For complete details call 800-304-

150 GEARS January/February 2008


8726 or go to www.ranchoperforman- President of the VSM North America 2 EZ-Ject universal A/C dye car-
cetransaxles.com. Business Unit. tridges with solvent-free Fluoro-
OBrien will oversee the sales Lite dye each oz cartridge
RANCHO Now Offers management team for the automotive can service up to 14 vehicles.
aftermarket in North America, and 8 oz bottle of Dye-Lite All-In-
the MENDEOLA S5 coordinate sales activities with various One oil dye that services up to
Rancho Performance Transaxles is SKF manufacturer representative agen- 16 vehicles.
the worlds largest builder/supplier of cies across North America. 8 oz bottle of Dye-Lite coolant dye
Mendeolas S5 transaxles. Developed "Were pleased to have Tom join that services up to 8 vehicles.
specifically for all out race cars, work- our team at SKF, said McGrath. With Fluorescence-enhancing glasses.
ing prerunners and sand buggies run- his knowledge of the industry and prov- Everything is stored in a conve-
ning big horsepower, S5 offers opti- en leadership skills, Tom will continue nient, sturdy plastic carrying case.
mum performance under the most tor- to strengthen SKFs sales management For more information call toll-free
tuous conditions. team across North America, to provide 1-800-641-1133. Outside the United
The sequential layout provides accessible service and support to our States and Canada, call 516-333-1254.
slick, swift, positive shifting through customers. Web site at www.tracerline.com.
a straight up and straight back pat- OBrien brings 30-plus years of
tern. Offered with a variety of options, sales and management experience to New Fix-A-Thred
the Mendeola sequential shift transmis- SKF. Previous positions include man-
sion is unquestionably the ultimate race aging sales director for Siskel Sales
Installation Tool
bred transaxle assembly on the market Company, senior vice president of Adds to Ease-of-Use
today. sales and marketing for American
For complete details, call Rancho Remanufacturing Inc. (ARI), and
Performance Transaxles at 714-680-6737. senior vice president of marketing for
Dana Corporation, Brake and Chassis
ATR Opens New Illinois Division (presently DBA Affinia
Undercar Group). He will work from
Remanufacturing Plant SKFs Elgin, IL office.
Authorized Transmission Reman- For more information about SKF
ufacturing Inc. (ATR) announced the and its 100 Year Jubilee, visit www.
opening of its world class remanufactur- vsm.skf.com.
ing center in Vernon Hills, Illinois.
ATR Inc. specializes in all models Tracer Products Offers
of Allison transmissions and light-duty
fleet transmissions. Their focus is on
Complete Leak Detection
fleets, with a strong commitment to pre- Kit Alcoa Fastening Systems (AFS),
mium quality products, exceptional cus- now offers Fix-A-Thred Repair Kits
tomer service and excellent availability. with a new, easier-to-use installation
ATR remanufactures all Allison AT, tool. The tools handle has been rede-
MT, HT, MD, HD, B, V and 1000/2000 signed with a fitted opening above the
series transmissions, and light-duty grip to accommodate the kits reamer.
fleet transmissions such as GM, Ford, This eliminates the need for a wrench.
Chrysler, JATCO and Aisin. It has dis- Fix-A-Thred products provide a
tribution centers throughout the US user-friendly thread repair option for
and Canada stocked with transmissions professionals and DIYers, and can be
ready-to-ship. used in a wide range of repair appli-
To contact ATR, call toll free 1-866- cations including automotive, truck,
738-7267 or email at sales@atreman. Tracer Products has introduced a marine, lawn and garden equipment,
com. special leak detection kit that makes it motorcycle, and more. There are also
easy for heavy-duty technicians to find specialty Fix-A-Thred kits for spark
Tom OBrien Appointed all air conditioning and fluid leaks the plug port, including a special kit for
first time. Ford Triton engines; oxygen sensor
SKFs VP Automotive The TP-8697HD kit features the ports; and motorcycle applications.
Sales OPTIMAX3000 super-high intensity For more information, contact
SKF has appointed Tom OBrien leak detection flashlight thats 15 times Alcoa Fastening Systems at 800-732-
as Vice President of Automotive Sales brighter than standard LEDs. 3470, or online at www.alcoafastening-
for the SKF Vehicle Service Market The kit includes: systems.com.
(VSM), North America Business Unit. EZ-Ject A/C dye injector with
OBrien will report to Mike McGrath, hose and couplers.

GEARS January/February 2008 151


POWER INDUSTRY NEWS
RatioTek Introduces New
Intelligent Service
Package for 4L60E

RatioTek has just introduced the


Intelligent Service Package repair kit
for the 4L60E P/N RT 4L60E. This Left to right: Mike Fleming, national sales manager, Tracer Products;
new kit improves shift quality, helps Dan Inda, Alliance Sales & Marketing, LLC; Jon Grossberg, Power Reps, LLC;
prevent those annoying TCC slip codes, Clay Tice, Kitchin & Sons, Inc; Gary Fixel, vice president of sales
and eliminates the need to replace TCC and marketing, Tracer Products.
regulator and isolator valves; theres no
reaming necessary. Spectronics Corporation, which invent- whining in all light-duty and heavy-
The kit also includes a new Booster ed fluorescent leak detection in 1955. duty vehicles.
Recovery System that restores pressure Tracerline UV and blue light inspec- Automatic transmission fluid is
regulator booster valve function with- tion lamps and specially formulated one of the most complex of all vehicle
out having to replace the worn boost fluorescent dyes are approved and used lubrication fluids, says Clay Parks,
valve and sleeve assembly. It even by major auto makers worldwide. vice president of development for Bars
enables you to adjust 1-2 shift firmness For more information about Products, manufacturer of Rislone. It
without removing valve body. Tracerline leak detection products, has to balance how much friction it
Shops can order kits direct from call toll-free 1-800-641-1133 or visit allows to reduce wear and control tem-
the manufacturer for a limited time our web site at www.tracerline.com. perature, while preventing the internal
by calling Steve Younger at RatioTek: clutch material from slipping. Plus,
626-968-2754. Or for more details visit the fluid must operate at both low
www.ratiotek.com. Stop Trans Whine With and high temperature extremes. Rislone
Transmission Stabilizer renews and sta-
New Rislone Trans- bilizes the transmission fluid, restoring
Tracer Products Honors mission Stabilizer transmission performance and prevent-
Sales Reps at AAPEX New Rislone Transmission ing costly transmission repairs.
At the recent AAPEX show in Las Stabilizer with Rislone Transmission Stabilizer
Vegas, Tracer Products was pleased to Stop Slip con- restores bands and clutches to stop slip,
award achievement trophies to three tains a special eliminate hesitation and reduce rough
key sales representatives for their out- blend of viscos- shifting. It stops fluid loss and reduces
standing sales efforts. ity improvers, friction and wear to protect internal
Gary Fixel, vice president of sales antiwear friction components. By lowering the operating
and marketing for Tracer Products, modifiers, and temperature, it helps combat the top
said, Were happy to recognize these extreme pressure cause of transmission failure: heat.
deserving recipients for their ongo- performance For more information about Rislone
ing efforts to increase the sales of our additives that Transmission Stabilizer or other Rislone
high-quality leak detection products. reduce rough products, call (800) 521-7475, or visit
Our nationwide network of sales repre- shifting and the web site at www.rislone.com.
sentatives plays a critical role in ensur- friction while
ing that Tracer Products maintains its eliminating slip,
position as the leading supplier of leak controlling tem-
detection products to the automotive perature, and
industry. repairing shud-
Tracer Products is a division of der, chatter and

152 GEARS January/February 2008


GEARS Shopper advertising costs $300.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed

SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS


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.

ERICA O RT E D ERIKSSON INDUSTRIES


AMAutomatic N IMP Division of Wentworth Engineering
Standard
Transmission
1946 - 2007
Transmission
1960-2007
1-800-388-4418
Authorized Parts Distributor

800-835-1007 Remanufactured Units * DYNO TESTED*


5HP30, 5HP24, 5HP19, 5HP18, 4HP24, 4HP22,
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Equipment New & Used Specializing in SAAB 900/9000 5SP,
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Supplies Hard Parts
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1970-2007 Soft Parts / Friction Kits / Steel Kits / Repair Manuals
Lifetime Fluids / Rebuild Kits / Valvebody Kits
Helping rebuilders get the 1-800-388-4418
job done for over 33 years Fax: (860) 395-0047
Next day delivery to
KS OK NE SD MN IL IA MO AR www.erikssonindustries.com
on orders called in by 4pm. 146B Elm St., Old Saybrook, CT 06475

**COMPUTERS**
Transmission Control Module
ECM & TCM
Mitsubishi-Honda-Hyundai-GEO Heated Cooler
Kia-Mazda-Nissan-Suzuki-Toyota Line Flusher
BOSCH ECM
GM - Ford - Chrysler - Dodge 800-725-6499
Next Day Air Shipping Available 417-725-6400
One Year Warranty
Best Customer SVC&Return Policy Transmission
Ford *GM * Chrysler off vehicle Dyno/CV
ECM reprogramming available Tester
888-217-4072
Autocomp Technologies, Inc.
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E Call and
Foreign Make ON

Find it All!
or
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m

Automatic Soft Parts


Rebuilt Standards Transfer Cases
Clutches Bearing Kits
NEW & USED PARTS
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o
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ted
Reb
uilt
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800-578-8726
s
Sanford, FL
866-798-8726 800-773-8726
Tallahassee, FL Saucier, MS

GEARS January/February 2008 153


GEARS Shopper advertising costs $300.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed

SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS


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.

BMW Mercedes-Benz Audi Driveline Specialists


Remanufactured to Transmissions
Perfection and
Hundreds of Transmissions in-stock.
Immediate installation available. Axles
2 year unlimited warranty.
Over 1,000 in stock
Dyno-tested. New, Quality Rebuilt
Remanufactured torque converter included. Kits available to rebuild your
Parts Specialists own: Bearings/Gears/Hard Parts
Toll free 800 - 372 - TRANS
Toll Free: 800-8 2 2 - 2 3 7 5
1331 Rollins Road Burlingame, CA 94010
tel 650 - 348 - 3990 fax 650 - 348 - 3019 www.partsbyweller.com

s: & 4REMEC.EW


6ENTURE3TANDARD
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s4RANSFER#ASES
s,OCKERS,IMITED3LIPS
s/VERHAUL+ITS
s'EAR3ETS
s"EARING3EAL+ITS

6ANCOUVER   


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GEARS
For The transmission Rebuilding Industry

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your ad!
call
(805) 604-2000
and find out how!

154 GEARS January/February 2008


Vehicle Component
Services
Used Transmission Hard Parts
Fix it in less Guaranteed Quality
than fifteen Centrally Located To Serve the
minutes with
East Coast, South and Midwest
one of our
easy to use
kits. We Do The Dirty Work !
No machine
Complete Transmission CoresAutomatic and Standard
shop required. Torque Converter and Transfer Case Cores

Northland Transmission Inc. Toll Free 866-441-7255


Phone: 715-458-2617 Fax: 715-458-2611 Foreign and Domestic
www.servobore.com We accept all major credit cards & Paypal

SURPLUS DEAL NEW TAKE OUTS

TREMEC TR-3650
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INSTA-CLEAN FIVE SPEED TRANMISSION WITH OVERDRIVE
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800-331-6405

OPTIMIZED MULTI-RAIL SHIFT LINKAGE


PARTS WASHERS

www.instaclean.com
RATIO: 1ST 3.38, 2ND 2.00, 3RD 1.32, 4TH 1.0, 5TH 0.68,
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and classic 5757
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Five speed overdrive
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OPTIMIZED MULTI-RAIL SHIFT LINKAGE
discounts availa
PARTS WASHERS RATIO:
ratio:1ST 3.38,
1st 2ND2nd
3.38, 2.00, 2.00,
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Ideal for kit and classic cars.
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US$1300.00 cars. discounts available)
INSTA-CLEAN Only US$1300.00 Quantity discounts!
PARTS WASHERS
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PARTS WASHERS

INSTA-CLEAN
Call Bruce (800) 668-6232
PARTS WASHERS email:
Call bruce@japanautoparts.com
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e-mail :bruce@japanautoparts.com
Call Bruce (800)-668-6232
30 Years Same
ES National
e-mail :bruce@japanautoparts.com
Area
C E D
M ER Employment
> Reman Transmissions Headquarters
w/converters for the transmission industry

> 722.6 Electronic We make it easy to relocate

Transmissions Employees and shop owners


call
Dodge Sprinters
and all other 1-888-412-TEAM
or visit our website
DaimlerChrysler Nag 1's
www.transteam.com
www.silverstartransmission.com

Silver Star Transmission


24 7 SUPPLIER
MEMBER

Hours Days
800-369-6601 or fax 405-330-9446

GEARS January/February 2008 155


GEARS Shopper advertising costs $300.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed

SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS


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.

Automatic Hard Parts Warehouse

lizing Se Hab
Specia la
in Late Espao
l
Models

1.877.888.5160
Local 614.444.5160 Fax 614.444.5165
www.transmissionhardparts.com
Columbus, OH
We Strip 350+ Transmissions a day

20 %
UNT
DISCO

20%* Member Discount


xATRA
xATSG
xCADA/NADA/COTTMAN
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Refer to Our Website at
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RD UA
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ES

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156 GEARS January/February 2008


STE
Traction Control Technology
6QEBUFEXJUI
WANTED: *OEVTUSZ$PNQPOFOUT
Automatic Transmission Cores 4IJGU,JU7BMWF#PEJFT
Torque Converter Cores 6OQBSBMMFMFE1SPEVDU4VQQPSU
ALL TYPES! .POUI6OMJNJUFE8BSSBOUZ
Early Domestic Recharged Viscous Couplers
$%30.DBUBMPH
Early Foreign New Venture 149, 249
)VOESFETPG7BMWF#PEJFT3FBEZUP4IJQ Borg Warner 44-04, 44-72, 13-72
Late Domestic
Rebuilt NV247 Clutch Pack
Late Foreign
More Models Available
REMAN INDUSTRIES Call for Info
1551 Pratt Blvd.
Elkgrove Village IL 60007 1304 
Contact Dave
1-800-729-8726 ask for Dino! &NBJMTBMFT!WBMWFCPEZQSPDPN (800) 883-6188
email: dcardone@remanindustries.com XXXWBMWFCPEZQSPDPN djhanger@earthlink.net

A Division of Truck Parts Specialists

YOUR ONE SOURCE FOR


DRIVETRAIN PARTS
FOR CARS & TRUCKS The only,
Standard Transmission
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original,
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patented,
Exchange Units Exchange Units in-shop fix
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Ask For Eddie Light Duty Specialists

1-800-282-0525 Northland Transmission Inc.


LOCAL (813) 623-1531 FAX (813) 626-0729
1221 U.S. HWY 301 NORTH TAMPA, FL 33619 Phone: 715-458-2617 Fax: 715-458-2611
THE RIGHT SOURCE. FOR THE RIGHT PRICE. RIGHT NOW www.servobore.com

HARD PARTS FOR


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WE HAVE OVER 500,000 PARTS IN STOCK

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WE SHIP UPS DAILY

GEARS January/February 2008 157


SHOPPER CLASSIFIED January/February 2008
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).

Tech at T he
Speed of Life SM

RatioTek
WE STOCK:
Automatic Trans
*NEW* AX4N VALVE BODIES
Repair & Tech Info.
DVD Computer Disk *NEW* 4F27E VALVE BODIES
We offer a complete machine shop
New 3rd Edition now shipping. for ALL of your rebuilding needs!
It's HOT - Over 125 trannys
Get the RatioTek computer pro- USED, NEW AND REBUILT
gram with all the Steve Younger FOREIGN AND DOMESTIC
books, super fixes, videos & RETAIL AND WHOLESALE
common complaints. ONE CALL DOES IT ALL!
Takes 5 seconds to look up
VB check balls not minutes.
Inexpensive lease plans are avail-
800-461-5396
able under $30.00 month.

GEARS
ATRA, ASA & ATSG members
receive 25% off on the leasing
programs and discounts on full For transmission rebuilding industry

purchase programs. This


This could
could be be your
your ad!
ad!
WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED
Visit the web site and view a full call
call (805)604-2000
(805)604-2000
FOREIGN & DOMESTIC and
and find
find out
out how!
how!
color sample book. Navigate the
Standard Transmissions
menus and get a feel for the books
Transfer Cases
and their contents. This program ing, 2345 sq. ft., land .22 acres, equip-
New & Used Parts
installs easily and can be installed ment and parts. Can be sold separately;
on multiple computers. Visit Rebuilt Units transmission equipment $150,000; block
info@ratiotek.com or call to receive *ONE CALL DOES IT ALL* building and land priced at $795,000.
lease and purchase information. Owner retiring. A lot of potential. For infor-
Note: New Address & Phones mation call: Roni Russell (480) 897-7446
Transcel Inc. CALL
or Bernie Kilroy (480) 251-5353.
ATRA Mbr
15902A Halliburton # 272 BRIAN OR ALBERT
City Of Industry, CA 91745 866-571-GEAR BUSINESS FOR SALE: Just listed
626-968-2754 Fax 626-961-8563 4 3 2 7
Kens Transmission Shop Owner re-
www.ratiotek.com tiring. This shop has been continually op-
erating since 1975 and features an excel-
BUSINESS FOR SALE: Move to the 1-12500# Mohawk lifts), air conditioned lent location with great visibility near the
Big Sky Country. A Montana Transmis- rebuilding area and office and 5500 sq. Lamb-Weston RDO plant. Set on a prime
sion Shop for Sale. Turn Key Operation. ft. Excellent customer base both retail commercial corner on Highway #71, this
$349,900 purchase price. Includes a and commercial. Parts washer, flywheel property can be purchased with just the
3,264 sq. ft. building, all equipment, tools grinder, welding equipment, new Robi- building and land for $179,000. The buyer
and inventory. Contact Tracy or Emilio at nare A/C equipment, tire changer & bal- can also purchase necessary equipment
(406) 245-4220 or tande@tanderealty. ancer, lathe, 50 ton press, inventory, plus for either a general repair shop or trans-
com. ATRA Mbr much more. Walk in and make a good mission shop for an additional $70,000.
living-owner retiring. Call Gary (732) 236- Call Rich at (800) 248-4032 for more in-
BUSINESS FOR SALE: Fantastic loca- 7523 for details. ATRA Mbr formation. ATRA Mbr
tion in Central New Jersey located on
US Highway 1. Primarily transmissions BUSINESS FOR SALE: Desert Transmis- BUSINESS FOR SALE: Transmission
but also doing general repair. In busi- sion Shop & Equipment Well established shop with general repair capabilities
ness for 30 years under same owner- business since 1961, located in Phoenix, Over 32 years continuous ownership
ship. Shop features 8 lifts (7-9000# plus Arizona, historic art district. Block build- Easy access and visibility from four

158 GEARS January/February 2008


lane US HWY 151 in Beaver Dam, WI DACCO Inc., ATTN: Human Resource HELP WANTED: D&E Automotive Prod-
100x100x22 Foot building on two acres Dept., P.O. Box 2789, Cookeville, TN ucts, Inc., St. Louis, MO, seeks a highly
with warehouse and dock Five lifts in- 38502. motivated sales professional. Extensive
cluding heavy truck Includes tools and ATRA Mbr transmission parts sales experience re-
equipment, large inventory, library, newer quired. This key position requires some-
computers and ProfitBoost software Cur- HELP WANTED: Distributors Needed For one who is dynamic, reliable, sharp and
rent U-Haul dealer, recent top 100 dealer Select Locations We are currently look- tenacious, with strong communication and
award www.doncigelsketrans.com, click ing for new distributors for our remanu- people skills. We are an equal opportunity
on Business Opportunity Contact Don at factured torque converter line. We have employer offering great benefits. Fax re-
(920) 210-3325. ATRA Mbr been rebuilding the industrys highest sume to: 248-731-9928. ATRA Mbr
quality converter for the nations largest
BUSINESS FOR SALE: Arizona Only distributor for over seven years. We have HELP WANTED: Transmission rebuilders
driveline and rear end shop in booming a proven and impeccable track record needed for production facility in Klamath
North Phoenix, Arizona. Base of good over this time for fill rate, return rate, rap- Falls, Oregon. Excellent working condi-
shops, dealers and customers working id response time, and tech support for all tions, pay and benefits. Great place to live
with us for over 21 years. Reputation built locations we serviced. Send inquiries to: with lots of hunting, fishing, camping and
on doing every job as promised 110% no jshawaluk@remanindustries.com. water sports. Also needed is a standard
matter what. 2000 square foot auto shop, ATRA Mbr transmission specialist and experienced
1680 square foot machine shop, office, torque converter builder. Call Dave at 1-
customer reception, spacious outside HELP WANTED: Transmission Techni- 800-409-1540 Monday through Friday, 8
parking and storage. Maximum inventory, cal Manager - Production transmission am to 5 pm. Or contact us at valleytrans-
two lifts, driveline balancer, parts washer, remanufacturing plant, located in the missionmanufacturing.com, Email: aap@
welding equipment and more. Training Midwest, seeks an experienced Technical fireserve.net, Fax: 541-850-0398, Direct
available, selling due to health, call Ed at Manager. Job duties will include over- Phone: 541-850-0203.
(623) 869-2510. seeing remanufacturing procedures, test
area, R&D work, interaction with the re- HELP WANTED: Looking for an experi-
EQUIPMENT FOR SALE: (1)Trans- manufacturing staff and education of the enced R&I technician for all makes and w
mission Dyno-Mark-3R Dynadrome production staff on current procedures/ models. Wages based on experience.
serial# 3103, new condition with oper- updates. The ideal candidate is a self Benefits offered. Please fax resume to
ators manual and adaptors, cost $50.K starter, hands on, has excellent communi- (780) 455-7213 or email at protechtrans-
asking $13.5 or best offer. (2) Flow Test cation skills, both verbal and written, and missions@shaw.ca. If you prefer call Rob
Flush operation SPX Kent-Moore model- has a minimum of 10 years experience. at (780) 453-3300. ATRA Mbr
J45096, asking $1000.00 (3) Kent-Moore This is a position for an individual with a
planetary carrier rebuilding set (J-25587- passion for the transmission industry! We HELP WANTED: One of the largest re-
70) asking $500.00. Call Lee at (613) offer an excellent salary, benefits, 401(k) manufactures of torque converters and
925-3007. plan, relocation assistance and more. transmission hard parts is seeking knowl-
Please email your resume to: dbland@ edgeable individuals to join our aggres-
HELP WANTED: Nevada Experienced atra.com (Subject: BB# 0702). sive sales team. Relocated or work from
transmission center manager for an es- your home. TCRA, ATRA Member. Send
tablished, family owned shop in Las Ve- all inquires to: Email address: dcardone@
gas, Nevada. Must be customer service HELP WANTED: Trenton, New Jersey remanindustries.com. ATRA Mbr
orientated, benefits-401K available. Call Looking for experienced transmission in-
Jeff at (602) 689-3921 or fax resume to: staller. Wages based on experience. Call HELP WANTED: TransTeam Employ-
(623) 931-7875. ATRA Mbr (609) 392-4547, email a1economytrans@ ment USA, The National Employment
hotmail.com, or fax resume to (609) 393- Headquarters for the transmission indus-
HELP WANTED: Electonic Catalog Man- 1690. ATRA Mbr try wants you! We offer a low cost inter-
ager Produce and maintain catalog net recruiting service for our registered
of soft parts, converters and transmis- HELP WANTED: Illinois Transmission transmission shop owners and deliver
sion parts. Responsibilities will include parts supplier is looking for a sales rep nationwide job opportunities to our reg-
overseeing the teardown, photographing who would be responsible for parts sales istered employees. Always a free service
and numbering parts using McCarty sys- within the entire eastern half of the US. to all industry employees. Visit our web
tem. Requirements include good hands Salary plus commission and full benefits. site www.transteam.com 24 hours a day,
on working knowledge of transmission Send resume to: KB Cores, 288 South 7 days a week to see how it works or call
parts, proficient in computer Microsoft Tec Drive, Kankakee, IL 60901 Attention: (888) 412-TEAM (8326). We make it easy
Office, Photoshop, and PageMaker/In Debbie Hubert. ATRA Mbr to relocate! ATRA Mbr
Design, excellent verbal and written com-
munication skills. Send Resumes to:

GEARS January/February 2008 159


ADVERTISERS
Name Page Name Page

A & Reds Transmission Parts.............................................. 85 Precision European Engine Inc................................insert - 17


www.areds.com www.peius.com/
All Automatic Transmission Parts......................................... 87 Precision International..................................................27, 107
www.allautotransparts.com www.transmissionkits.com
ATI Performance Products................................................... 29 ProfitBoost LLC.................................................................... 51
www.atiperformanceproducts.com www.profitboost,com
ATRA..............................................................................17, 49 Raybestos Powertrain.................................................... 3, 109
www.atraonline.com www.raybestospowertrain.com
Autocomp Technologies....................................................... 89 Reman Industries Inc..........................................................111
Borg-Warner Automotive................................................ 35, 91 www.remanindustries.com
BorgWarner Morse TEC......................................................... 7 Seal Aftermarket Products-
www.morsetec.com Parker Hannifin Corporation..................................... IFC, 37
California Transmission Products-CALTRANS..................... 93 www.parker.com
www.cal-trans.com Slauson Transmission Parts................................................. 25
Consolidated Transmission Parts, Inc.................................. 95 www.slauson.com
www.consolidatedtrans.com Sonnax Industries................................................................. 13
Converter Man Ltd............................................................... 97 www.sonnax.com
www.converterman.com SuperFlow Technologies Group........................................... 39
DACCO Inc........................................................................... 41 www.superflow.com
www.daccoinc.com Superior Transmission Parts.............................................. 113
European Exchange, Inc...................................................... 99 www.superior-transmission.com
www.europeanexchange.com Teckpak-Fitzall (Trans-A-Matic).......................................... 115
EVT Parts............................................................................. 47 www.teckpak-fitzall.com
www.evtparts.com Transmission Specialties.............................................. 45, 117
GM Parts.............................................................................. 43 www.transmission-specialties.com
www.goodwrench.com Transtar Industries, Inc........................................................... 9
H & A Transmissions, Inc................................................... 101 www.transtarindustries.com
www.gear_speed.com TransTec............................................................................... 19
Heffernan Group................................................................... 48 www.transtec.com
www.heffgroup.com TRNW Inc........................................................................... 119
Jasper Engines & Transmissions....................................... IBC www.trnw.net
www.jasperengines.com VBX - ValveBody Xpress, Inc............................................. 121
Life Automotive Products Inc.................................................. 5 www.valvebodyxpress.com
www.smartblend.com Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc............15, 59, 123
LUBEGARD By International Lubricants, Inc......... OBC, 103 www.wittrans.com
www.lubegard.com Worldwide Transmission Group......................................... 125
Mopar................................................................................... 33 http://worldwidetransmissions.com
Power Pusher By Nu-Star, Inc..................................... 31, 105 ZF Sales and Service NA, LLC............................................ 55
www.powerpusher.com www.zf-group.com

CALENDAR
ATRA Technical Seminar Schedule
2/16/2008
2/16/2008
2008
Charlotte, NC
San Diego, CA
5/10/2008
5/10/2008
Fremont, CA
Denver, CO
2008

2/23/2008 Houston, TX 5/17/2008 Dallas, TX


2/23/2008 St. Louis, MO 6/7/2008 Vancouver, BC
3/1/2008 Biloxi, MS 6/7/2008 Los Angeles, CA
3/8/2008 Toronto, ON 8/2/2008 Albuquerque, NM
3/15/2008 Orlando, FL 8/16/2008 San Antonio, TX
3/29/2008 Phoenix, AZ 8/23/2008 Cincinnati, OH
3/29/2008 Boston, MA 9/6/2008 Billings, MT
4/12/2008 Minneapolis, MN 10/4/2008 Portland, OR
4/12/2008 Salt Lake City, UT 10/4/2008 Chicago, IL
4/19/2008 Philadelphia, PA 10/3011/2/2008 EXPO - Las Vegas, NV
4/26/2008 Coeur DAlene, ID 11/8/2008 Baltimore, MD

160 GEARS January/February 2008

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