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The Million Dollar

Question

Controlling the 6R80


Inside the Honda 6-Speed
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Sonnax_July2015new.indd 1

7/1/15 9:02 AM

GEARS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

JULY 2015

PHONE (805) 604-2000










Publisher
Managing Editor
Technical Director
Advertising
Senior Designer
Graphic Artist

Dennis Madden
Rodger Bland
Lance Wiggins
Frank Pasley
Jeanette Troub
Aurelio Pea

Let's Play Ball:


Controlling the 6R80
Page 4

Contributing Editors: Steve Bodofsky


Jim Cathcart Alex Goldfayn
Thom Tschetter Corey Turner

ATRA Technical Staff:


Rolando (Rolly) Alverez
Mike Brown


David Chalker

Pete Huscher

Shaun Velasquez

Bill Brayton
Keith Clark
Rob Faucett
Mike Souza
Jarad Warren

Seminars & Convention Mgr

Vanessa Velasquez

The views expressed in this publication should not necessarily be interpreted


as the official policy of the Automatic Transmission Rebuilders Association (ATRA).
Publication of product information or any advertising does not imply recommendation by ATRA.
GEARS , a publication of ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030,
is published for the betterment of the transmission industry and is distributed
ten times per year. No part of this issue may be reproduced without prior written
permission of the publisher. GEARS is distributed to members of the transmission industry in the United States, Canada, ATRA Members in Mexico & Europe,
and related automotive industry firms and individually. Send changes of address
to GEARS in care of ATRA. Subscriptions are available by contacting GEARS in
care of ATRA.
Advertisers and advertising agencies assume full liability for all content of advertisements printed and also assume full responsibility for any claims arising therefrom against the publisher. The publisher reserves the unqualified right to reject any
advertising copy as it deems appropriate, with or without cause.
GEARS is designed to provide accurate and authoritative information in regard
to the subject matter covered. It is distributed with the understanding the publisher
is not engaged in rendering legal, accounting or other professional service. If legal
advice or other expert assistance, is required, the services of a competent professional person should be sought from a Declaration of Principles jointly adopted
by a Committee of the American Bar Association and Committee of Publishers.
GEARS also welcomes articles submitted by members of the industry. GEARS
considers all articles for publication that contribute positively to the welfare of the
transmission industry, and reserves the right to edit all articles it publishes. If you
would like to submit an article to GEARS, include background information about
the author and a telephone number where he/she may be reached. If you want
submissions returned, enclose a self-addressed, stamped envelope.

Keep Those Trannys Rolling:


Duplicating the Problem Sometimes
Reveals Surprising Results
Page 26

The Revenue Growth Habit:


The Million Dollar Question
Page 42

SPECIAL INTEREST & TECHNICAL


4

10

18

LET'S PLAY BALL: Controlling the 6R80

by Lance Wiggins

THE WORD ON THE STREET: A Linear Comparison

by Mike Souza

FUN WITH TRANSMISSIONS: Inside the Honda 6-Speed

by Bill Brayton

26 KEEP THOSE TRANNYS ROLLING:



Duplicating the Problem Sometimes Reveals Surprising Results

by Pete Huscher

30

32

36

38

42

46

48

Welcome to the Masters!

by Lance Wiggins

UP YOUR BUSINESS: When Enough Is Enough; Part 3

by Thom Tschetter

What Are You Paid to Do?

by Jim Cathcart

Internet Price Shoppers And Financing

by Corey Turner

THE REVENUE GROWTH HABIT: The Million Dollar Question

by Alex Goldfayn

Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care Leaps into the Digital Age

by Dennis Madden

SHOP PROFILE: Lodi Transmissions, Inc., Lodi, CA

by Steve Bodofsky

Editorial and Business Offices


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

www.gearsmagazine.com
www.atra.com
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to GEARS, P.O. Box 16118,
North Hollywood, CA 91615-6118
Publications Mail Agreement No. 40031403
Return Undeliverable Canadian Addresses to:
Station A, PO Box 54, Windsor, ON N9A 6J5
Email: gears@atra.com
Issue #196

1TOC-715 RedBlue.indd 2

Printed in U.S.A.

DEPARTMENTS
2

FROM THE CEO: Identity Crisis

by Dennis Madden

54
58
64

POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS


SHOPPERS AND CLASSIFIED
LIST OF ADVERTISERS

Lodi Transmissions, Inc., Lodi, CA


Their story on page 48

Copyright ATRA 2015

6/22/15 7:24 AM

FROM THE CEO

Identity Crisis
W

hats the purpose of your


business? Seems like a
simple question but do you
really know what the purpose of your
business is? Have you established the
purpose and shared it with your team
so they understand it? Let me show
you what I mean:
A few years ago I asked people at
ATRA to describe the purpose of the
Association. In every case I got a list of
services or tasks (technical, warranty,
technical seminars, trade show, etc.).
The list would vary, depending on
who I asked and what department they
worked in.
It became clear that nobody knew
what the purpose of ATRA was. What
they were describing were tactics;
purpose is at a much higher level.
A short time later we developed the
statements get em in the door and
get em out the door. It meant that the
purpose of ATRA was to help Members
bring customers in and then help them
get the cars fixed so they can get paid.
All of a sudden there was a test
to examine whether or not a project
was valid, based on the purpose of the
Association. In addition, it was simple,
so everyone knew why they were there.
So what about your business?
When I talk to shop owners about their
businesses, theyll almost inevitably
give me a list of tasks. Theyll talk about
rebuilding transmissions, some general
repair items they perform, or any
number of things they do throughout
the day.
Their business is centered on a
range of tactics, without a sense of
purpose; it doesnt include the customer,
beyond the fact that theyre rebuilding a
customers transmission. What happens
2

1frmceo715.indd 2

is the customer becomes secondary.


Lets consider how dangerous this
thinking is: When youre focused on the
tasks, its easy to assume the completion
of the task equating to a job well done.
The transmission works great but it
took two weeks to get it back to the
customer. Does that sound successful?
This thinking transcends rebuilding
the transmission as an original job; it
goes into how you deal with warranty
matters and a wide range other problems
for the customer. For example:
A shop is busy and cant get to
the customers car for a week, but
doesnt tell the customer for fear of
losing the job.
Theyre having trouble finding
the parts, so it takes two weeks
to rebuild the transmission.
Meanwhile, the customer racks up
$600 in rental car fees.
For an out-of-town warranty
claim, the shop wants to ship the
transmission back so they can
repair it, or ship the parts to the
repairing shop to save money.
They might even want to tow the
vehicle 100 miles to their shop (at
the customers expense) so they
can fix the transmission.
This task-oriented thinking is
centered on serving the needs of the
shop, not the customer. At some point
customers get tired of caring about the
shops needs. We see this as a loss of
business, leaving the shop owners to
wonder why business has dropped off.
An alternative to task-oriented
thinking is purpose thinking; why does
your business exist? Consider something
like this: Denniss Transmissions
exists to get the customer back on the
road as quickly as possible.

by Dennis Madden
members.atra.com

Notice that statement isnt centered


on the transmission, but rather on the
customer. This new business identity
changes the way you think of sales,
purchasing, and warranty service. Now
the best solution is the one that aligns
with your purpose: getting the customer
back on the road as quickly as possible.
Suddenly you might consider
purchasing a transmission rather
than rebuilding it, so you can get the
customer back on the road tomorrow.
Or, instead of purchasing a unit you
keep the more popular ones in stock. On
warranty repairs you no longer consider
sending parts or towing the car back.
Youll have the shop make the repairs
or even buy a unit; whatever it takes to
get your customer out of trouble.
In addition, everyone on your team
understands your purpose and can make
better decisions; the answers become
obvious.
Ive had the pleasure of visiting
hundreds of shops and there are traits
Ive observed that correspond to an
outcome. Businesses that overthink
ways to save a nickel here or there
routinely make poor decision for their
customers and struggle to make ends
meet.
On the other hand, businesses that
develop a simple purpose centered
on the customer resolve problems
quickly, even if it means a loss on one
particular warranty job, and are usually
one of the more profitable shops in
town.
It all begins with clearly identifying
your purpose one that aligns with
your business identity.

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:25 AM

Raybestos_July2015.indd 1

6/22/15 8:26 AM

LET'S PLAY BALL

CONTROLLING
THE

6R80

by Lance Wiggins
members.atra.com

he 6R80 has been


around since 2009
and, while similar
to the 6R60, there are some
differences.
Lets start by defining
some terms: the term
solenoid
body
refers
to the valve body. This
transmission has a valve
body, a hard-wired harness,
and seven solenoids. The
tag on the side of the
transmission
says
Sol
Strategy and Sol Body
ID. These are the program
strategies for the PCM and
the valve body/solenoid
pairing IDs.
This transmission has
all of these sensors mounted
on the valve body assembly
(figure 1): turbine speed
(TSS), output speed (OSS),
internal transmission range
(ITRS), and transmission
fluid temperature (TFT).
The PCM operates the
electrical components and
4

1Lance tech 715 v2.indd 4

Figure 1

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:27 AM

Vehicle
Certification
Label

provides control for gear selection


shift pressure. If the system loses
total control or electrical power, the
PCM provides for Failure Mode Effect
Management (FMEM) operation or
failsafe.
The selector options are P, R, N,
D, M, 2 and 1. In failsafe mode youll
have these gears available: P, R, N, D
(5th gear for high gear failure) and M
(3rd gear for all other failures).
In 3rd gear failsafe, all solenoids
are off. In the off position, SSB directs
high pressure to the clutch B regulator
and latch valves to apply the direct
clutch (B). The forward clutch (A)
is hydraulically applied in 3rd gear
failsafe. PCA provides maximum
solenoid pressure to the main regulator
valve for maximum line pressure. SSD
is on, which directs high pressure to
the solenoid multiplex valve, which
is redirected to the drive enable valve
where its blocked.
If failsafe occurs when the
transmissions in 5th or 6th gear, it
will default to 5th gear. In 5th gear, the
PCM supplies low current to the SSD
to apply high, regulated pressure to the
solenoid multiplex valve. This directs
the pressure to the clutch E regulator
and latch valves to apply the overdrive
clutch (E). These latch valves, once
moved into position, will remain in
that position, locking the transmission
in 5th gear.
All vehicles come equipped
with a Vehicle Certification Label.
This label provides the information
for programming the PCM and
other modules to the vehicle. All
transmissions are equipped with an
identification tag on the case. Thats
where youll find the transmission part
number, serial number, and build date
(dd/mm/yy; figure 2).
The solenoid body tag on the
transmission case contains the 13-digit
solenoid body strategy and 12-digit
solenoid body identification (figure 3).
The 13-digit solenoid body strategy
code is also stamped on the valve body
casing (figure 4).
When you install a new solenoid
body, youll also need to update the
GEARS July 2015

1Lance tech 715 v2.indd 5

Identification
Tag

1) Part Number
2) Build Date
dd/mm/yy
3) Serial Number

Figure 2
Solenoid Strategy Tag
13 Digit
12 Digit

Figure 3

Figure 4

6/22/15 7:28 AM

Controlling the 6R80

Figure 5

solenoid body strategy in the PCM. A


replacement solenoid body tag comes
with the new solenoid body, which
provides the 13-digit solenoid body
strategy and the 12-digit solenoid body
identification. Always place the new
tag over the original tag to make sure
you have the proper calibration data.
If the solenoid body strategy
etched on the main control doesnt
match whats displayed on your scan
tool, youll need to update the solenoid
body strategy or you may experience
harsh shifts.
The solenoids come in five
different calibrations per solenoid,
so a multitude of solenoid calibration
combinations can be achieved. This
becomes very important when it
comes to solenoid replacement. You
6

1Lance tech 715 v2.indd 6

can replace the solenoids individually,


but only with a solenoid that has an
injector nozzle and band number
that matches the original solenoid
(figure 5). The band number is next to
the matrix barcode on the side of the
solenoid and will be a 1, 2, 3, 4, or 5
(figure 6).
If a repair is necessary, its a good
idea to reprogram the system and reset
the adaptive strategies.
To reprogram the PCM, always
follow these steps in order, without
skipping a step:
1. Using a scan tool/PC, select
Module
Programming
and
Programmable Parameters from the
toolbox icon.
2. Select Transmission.
3. Follow the instructions displayed

on the scan tool. There are fields


to enter the solenoid body 12-digit
identification and 13-digit strategy
recorded from the solenoid body.
Enter those codes as displayed on
the solenoid body tag.
Your scan tool will verify whether
the numbers entered are valid
and will display a message if the
information is invalid.
IMPORTANT: If you installed a
new solenoid body, compare the
12-digit identification and 13-digit
strategy fields from the solenoid
body to the replacement solenoid
body tag provided with the solenoid
body service kit and place it over the
existing identification tag.
CAUTION: If the solenoid body
information is incorrect, transmission
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:28 AM

Reason #343
Business is booming. The sun is shining.
And your builder just called in sick.

Whatever your reason, use ETE Reman.


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6/22/15 8:27 AM

Controlling the 6R80

The band
number
is next to the
matrix
barcode on
the side of
the solenoid
and will be a
1, 2, 3, 4, or 5
damage or driveability problems
can occur.
4. Verify whether the file is available
in the scan tool. If the file is
available, skip to step 9. If the file
isnt available, continue with step 5.
5. Connect your scan tool to the
Professional Technician Society
(PTS) server.
6. Follow the instructions on the
network to download the strategy
file to your scan tool.
7. If your scan tool cant connect to
the Professional Technician Society
(PTS) server, download the file
from www.motorcraft.com. If your
scan tool cant download a strategy
from the web site, a partial strategy
will be downloaded automatically.
8. Reconnect your scan tool to the
vehicle.
9. Follow the instructions displayed
on the scan tool to complete the
programming procedure.
Always perform a complete transmission drive cycle after repairs. If
you dont complete a drive cycle, the
system wont reset properly, and you
may experience erratic shifts and
driveability complaints.
WARNING: Always drive the vehicle
in a safe manner according to driving
conditions and obey all traffic laws.
For the system to set a code,
failures must occur four consecutive
8

1Lance tech 715 v2.indd 8

Figure 6

times for shift error codes and five


consecutive times for continuous
TCC codes. Use the transmission
drive cycle to check for failures after
performing a self-test.
Follow these steps to perform a
drive cycle:
1. Record then clear all diagnostic
trouble codes (DTCs).
2. Run the engine until it reaches
normal operating temperature.
3. Make sure the transmission fluid
level is correct.
4. With the selector lever in D,
moderately accelerate from stop to
80 km/h (50 MPH), allowing the
transmission to shift into 6th gear.
Keep vehicle speed and throttle
steady for at least 15 seconds.
5. With the transmission in 6th gear,
maintain a consistent vehicle speed
and throttle position, and lightly
apply and release the brake to
operate the brake lights. Maintain
the speed and throttle for at least
five seconds.
6. Brake to a stop and remain stopped
for at least 20 seconds.
7. Repeat steps 4 through 6 five times.
8. Perform a self-test and record any
DTCs. If DTCs are present, repair

all non-transmission DTCs first,


as they can directly affect the
transmission operation.
9. Repeat the self-test and road test
the vehicle to verify the repair.
10. Clear the DTCs.
11. Perform the drive cycle and repeat the self-test after completing
the repair.
Remember, you can be the
cause of erratic shifts and improper
transmission behavior if you fail to
reprogram and retrain the computer
system. Or, you can be the one whose
transmissions set the standards for all
others to follow. In some cases all it
takes is to follow the procedures.
Next time well examine parts interchange and the problems associated
with mismatching parts.

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:29 AM

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Complete line of CVC Remanufactured


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Coolers
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Superior Shift Correction Packages
Transgo Reprogramming Kits
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Pilot Bushings & Bearings
Clutch Alignment Tools

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Chains & Sprockets

Shop Supplies & Tools

Additives
Assembly Lubricants
Builders Benches
Lifts
Parts Washer Soap
Rough Service Light Bulbs
R.T.V. Black, Blue, Clear
Technical Manuals
Tools & Equipment
Threadlock & Thread Repair

Electrical

Solenoids, Sensors, & Switches


Electrical Components

Version 5.0
2015
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www.wittrans.com
WIT_July2015.indd 2

6/22/15 8:28 AM

THE WORD ON THE STREET

A LINEAR
COMPARISON

by Mike Souza
members.atra.com

A look at the differences


between the first
and second generations
of the Subaru
Lineartronic CVT.

he Gen I ( TR 6 9 0 ) and Gen II ( TR 5 8 0 ) Subaru


L ineartronic C V Ts have been around since 2 0 0 9 .
A lthoug h there arent too many failures reported
on this long itudinal, all- wheel drive C V T, a few of them
are starting t o show up at shops.
A frig htening ly common problem shows up after
these transmissions g et serviced at some q uick lube
facilities; the differential g ets drained but they forg et
to refill it (figure 1). or some reason this happens uite
often and you can see the results.
A nother complaint is the vehicle chug g ing
when coming to a stop. B est description? Its
like slowing down in car with a standard
transmission without releasing t he clutch.
Subaru released a technical service
bulletin that addresses this complaint,
bulletin number 1 90 1
dated ay
, 01 . In it, they point to a thrust
washer in the torq ue converter;
when it wears down too much, it
restricts lube ow. This causes
the torq ue converter clutch to
drag due to inadeq uate release
pressure (figure ). The fix
involves an updated torq ue
converter with a thrust bearing
in place of the washer.
10

1mikesouza715 v2.indd 10

Figure 1

Figure 2

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:30 AM

TransTec_July2015.indd 1

6/22/15 8:50 AM

A Linear Comparison

Figure 3

L et s tak e a look at some of the


dif f er ences betw een Gen I and II: F ir st is
the siz e Gen II is 1 0 0 mm shor ter and
lighter than Gen I (figure ).
There are four sections to the case
on the Gen I torque converter housing
(bellhousing), main case, intermediate
case, and extension housing (tail
housing). Gen II has only three sections;
ther e s no inter mediate case section
(figure 4).
The most unusual difference
between the two is the valve body
location The valve body on the Gen I is
located inside the pan (sump; figure );
pretty much where youd expect it. On
the other hand, the Gen II valve body is
located underneath a cover plate at the
top of the transmission (figure ). Thats
a little more unusual.
There are several differences in
some of the internal components as well.
tarting from the front, the Gen II pump
is located in front of the main case, inside the bellhousing. The Gen I pump is
located on the other side of the bellhousing, inside the main case, in front of the
differential (figure ).

One thing thats unusual


on both models is
the secondary linear
control solenoid,
which controls
pulley pressure to
Figure 4

12

1mikesouza715 v2.indd 12

as high as 900 PSI.


GEARS July 2015

6/23/15 8:21 AM

Figure 5

Figure 6

After the engine reaches more than 400 RPM,


the primary and secondary pulleys are charged with oil
and then the input clutch engages.

Figure 7

GEARS July 2015

1mikesouza715 v2.indd 13

13

6/22/15 7:33 AM

A Linear Comparison

Figure 8

The input clutch assembly


on Gen I is inside the bellhousing
(figure 8). The input clutch has only
internal and external steel plates,
without any friction material. When
the engine starts, the oil pump
rotor doesnt turn fast enough to
provide adequate oil pressure to
engage the input clutch. This keeps
the transmission from creating any
resistance to engine startup.
After the engine reaches more than
400 RPM, the primary and secondary
pulleys are charged with oil and then
the input clutch engages. This prevents
the pulleys from turning until theres
enough clamping pressure on the chain.
Once the input clutch engages,
engine power is delivered to the pulleys
through the reduction gear. This isnt a
shifting clutch; its only released after
the engine shuts off. Theres no input
clutch on Gen II models; only forward
and reverse clutch assemblies.
The forward and reverse clutch
assemblies on both models have
friction
material.
The
forward
and reverse clutch assemblies on
Gen I are located at the rear of the
main case, inside the front section of
the intermediate case (figure 9). The
forward and reverse clutch assemblies
14

1mikesouza715 v2.indd 14

Figure 9

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:34 AM

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6/22/15 8:31 AM

A Linear Comparison

in Gen II models ar e located at the


f r ont of the main case, as those
units hav e no inter mediate case
(figure 0).
The tr ansf er clutch assemblies
ar e similar
to all S ubar u
tr ansmissions, w hether they r e
automatic or
T. They all have
f r iction plates and ar e located in
the extension housing. one of
these parts are interchangeable.
One thing thats unusual on
both models is the secondar y
linear contr ol solenoid, w hich
controls pulley pressure to as high
as 900 P I. The main regulator
valve is inside the tip (snout) of the
solenoid on both models (figure
). This is something we havent
seen before. Although both
solenoids look the same and hav e
the same resistance, swapping
them may be another issue. As
w ith all tr ansmissions in today s
mar k et, they r e calibr ated f or a
designated model.
I hope this inf or mation w ill
help you r emain up to date on
upcoming models like these. In
this industry, staying up to date is
the name of the game. opefully
this and f utur e inf or mation in the
f or m of ar ticles, w ebinar s, and
seminar s, w ill mak e it easier f or
you to keep up with the changes
that keep coming your way.

Figure 10

Keep up with Mike Souza as


he covers the new GM 8L90
8-Speed Transmission found
in the 2015 and later model
Corvette in
"It's All About the 8-Speeds"
at this year's Powertrain
Expo in Las Vegas.
For more information visit
powertrainexpo.com
Figure 11

16

1mikesouza715 v2.indd 16

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:35 AM

LifeAuto_July2015.indd 1

6/22/15 8:34 AM

FUN WITH TRANSMISSIONS

INSIDE
THE HONDA
6-SPEED

by Bill Brayton
members.atra.com

The clutch drums on the


mainshaft are standard
Honda drums. There are

s the Honda 6-speeds


become more popular, it
probably wont be long
before you start to see them reach your
bench. ATRAs presented webinars
and weve put some seminar material
together on some of the components
for these units, so today were going to
take a closer look inside this four-shaft
beast of a transmission.
This unit appears in both Acura
and Honda vehicles:
Acura
2011-2015 TL/TLX
2011-2015 RL/RLX
2011-on RDX
2010-2013 ZDX
2014-on RLX
Honda
2011-on Odyssey
2013-on Accord

18

1bill715.indd 18

a couple items you really


need to pay attention to
when disassembling the
mainshaft...
Basic Disassembly
and Rebuild Tips

Always use the correct puller setup


to remove the bearings. Never pull on
the gear teeth; theyll crack and chip
very easily.
Remove the shafts and drums in
order and the unit comes apart easily:
1. Remove the second gear from the
countershaft.
2. Remove the mainshaft.
3. Remove the third shaft.
4. Remove the 2nd and 5th drum from

the secondary shaft (figure 1).


The clutch drums on the mainshaft
are standard Honda drums. There are
a couple items you really need to pay
attention to when disassembling the
mainshaft:
Support the 4th gear and press the
shaft out of the gears, drum, and
3rd gear collar (figure 2).
Just like other Honda transmissions,
always inspect the welds in the
drums for cracks.
Press the flapper valve lightly
toward the piston until it seats.
It should spring back smoothly
against the stop (figure 3).
Theres a difference in cushion
springs between the 3rd and 6th drums:
The 3rd drum has a thick pressure plate
and the 6th drum has a thin cushion
plate (figure 4). Always check the clutch
clearances prior to final assembly.
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:49 AM

3RD
SHAFT

MAIN
SHAFT

2ND & 5TH


DRUM

2ND
GEAR

Figure 1

FLAPPER
VALVE
Figure 2

GEARS July 2015

1bill715.indd 19

Figure 3

19

6/22/15 7:49 AM

Inside the Honda 6-Speed

6TH

3RD

Figure 4

Figure 5

Figure 6

Clutch clearance specifications:


2nd, 3rd, 5th, 6th clutches 0.0490.057 (12.5014.50mm)
1st and 4th clutches 0.0590.066 (15.0016.75mm)
Clutch clearances arent adjustable just yet. There are aftermarket
clutch plates and steels available, but different thickness pressure
plates arent available, so, if your clutch drum has gone metal-tometal on the pressure plate, your best bet is to find a good used unit
for the pressure plate. Not the best solution, but itll have to do until
someone starts making the pressure plates to adjust clutch clearances.
The 1st gear bearing is different from other Hondas in that its
a plastic caged bearing. Also the 1st gear-to-shaft bearing has a race
and it doesnt ride against the gear.
Its very easy to leave the 2nd gear and idler gear pressed onto
the secondary shaft, but it isnt a good idea. These bearings are just
like previous Honda bearings in that theyre prone to pitting and
galling. You may not feel the roughness when turning the gears, so
always take the time to press the assembly apart for cleaning and
inspection (figure 5).
The 2nd/5th drum is the same construction as the 2nd/6th drum.
As with the previous drum, check for cracks and make sure the
20

1bill715.indd 20

Figure 7

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:49 AM

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6/22/15 8:35 AM

Inside the Honda 6-Speed

Figure 8

Figure 9

SLEEVE SEALS
Figure 10

flapper valves are free of debris and


working correctly. The clutches are
bigger on this drum. The cushion
springs in the 2nd/5th drum are the
same size and can be interchanged
without any problem (figure 6).

Third Shaft Inspection

The 4th drum comes off the third


shaft by removing the snap ring. Its a
bit deceiving because it looks like the
shaft components should come off the
22

1bill715.indd 22

shaft in the same direction as the 4th


clutch. It wont; in fact, all the other
components come off the other end
of the shaft. Use a bearing spreader
to support the 6th gear to press the
3rd shaft out of the reverse slider hub
(figure 7).
The flat side of the gear selector
hub faces up and there are no thrust
washers on the top or bottom of the
6th gear. This is interesting because,
when you take the unit apart, you might

assume the washers were left out when


the unit was built. They werent; there
were never thrust washers there to
begin with (figure 8).
Disassemble the rest of the third
shaft by removing the retaining snap
ring, cotter retainer, and the cotters.
There are two tabs on the washer/race
that index with the slots on the shaft.
The step on the washer/race faces down
toward the bearing (figure 9).
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:49 AM

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Inside the Honda 6-Speed

The great thing about

STANDARD OPERATING MODE

the 6-speed valve body is


its simplicity. There are
fewer valves involved in
the shifts.
Heres an important step thats easy
to miss if you arent paying attention:
Theres a retaining snap ring holding a
sleeve in place inside the Third shaft.
Its used to channel 4th clutch apply
oil from one sealing ring passage to
the other.
Always replace the sleeve seals
(figure 10). Failure to do so will cause
4th clutch problems, such as slipping,
flaring, or delayed shifts.

Figure 11A

LOW LOAD OPERATING MODE

Valve Body

The great thing about the 6-speed


valve body is its simplicity. There are
fewer valves involved in the shifts.
These units work like 41TEs: The
applying clutches are fed directly by the
solenoids and not through regulating
valves. The fewer valves involved the
less trouble they can cause.
When rebuilding a Honda
transmission, remove every valve
from every bore, every time. All of the
valves should drop into its bore on its
own weight. If the valves are worn or
scratched up, replace the valve body.

Pressure Regulator Valve


Body

The mainline pressure regulator


valve in the 6-speed transmission is
radically different from any previous
Honda transmission. Sure, line pressure
rise is still controlled by the stator
working on the valve to boost pressure.
This is the traditional Honda setup.
But, for the first time ever, this
Honda has a pressure control solenoid.
This isnt a pressure rise solenoid like
most other transmissions; this is a
pressure reduction solenoid. And its
an off/on solenoid; not a PWM-style
solenoid.

24

1bill715.indd 24

Figure 11B

There are two operating modes:


standard operating pressure and lowload operating pressure. When the
vehicle is in a low-load situation, such
as idle or at highway speed cruise, the
computer will energize the solenoid to
lower pressure. This, of course, is all
about reducing load on the engine and
increasing fuel mileage.

Pressure Specifications

Standard operating pressure


regulation, normal operating pressure
is 160170 PSI (11.011.7 Bar) (figure
11A).
Low-load line pressure regulation,
low-load pressure is 96103 PSI
(6.67.1 Bar) (figure 11B).

There are many changes to this new


Honda 6-speed that make it different
from its predecessors, and the changes/
alterations seem to be all to the good.
Sure, the solenoid body might be a little
more expensive, but the tradeoff is the
valve body wont take as long to go
through during the repair.
Therell be a lot of these units on
the road and headed toward your shop
in the not-so-far-off future. Knowing
what to look for and how to do the job
right the first time means greater profits
and, when that happens, we all have
Fun With Transmissions!

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:49 AM

Duplicating the Problem Sometimes Reveals Surprising Results

KEEP THOSE TRANNYS ROLLING

Duplicating the Problem

Sometimes Reveals

by Pete Huscher
members.atra.com

Surprising Results

n this issue of Keep Those Trannys


Rolling, were going to look at a
2005 Ford F450 Super Duty truck
that occasionally dropped into neutral
while driving in reverse. But, as youll
discover, the real trick to diagnosing
this condition was to duplicate
the problem exactly the way the
customer was experiencing it.
Most of us who work in the
automotive repair business have family,
friends, and acquaintances who seem to
rely on us to help them understand and
maintain their vehicles. This article
begins with a phone call from one of
my longtime friends.

26

1peteH715.indd 26

Hed just purchased a used 2005


Ford F450 Super Duty truck. His
truck was a four wheel drive equipped
with a 6.0L engine and a 5R110W,
or Torqshift, transmission. According
to him, it was dropping into neutral
occasionally when the transmission
was in reverse. He said the problem
was intermittent and, most of the time,
the transmission worked perfectly.
Hed taken it to a local
transmission shop to have it diagnosed.
The technician was unable to duplicate
the condition, but the fluid was
discolored and smelled burnt, so the
shop recommended going inside the
transmission for a look.
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:50 AM

Superior Transmission July2015.indd 1

6/22/15 8:37 AM

Duplicating the Problem Sometimes Reveals Surprising Results

Fluid Pressure in Reverse is Controlled by PCA

During disassembly, the technician


couldnt find any burnt clutches, but
there were signs of torque converter
slip, so he decided to reseal the
transmission and replace the torque
converter. According to the technician,
the transmission reseal and torque
converter replacement was pretty
straightforward; nothing unusual.
After resealing the transmission
and replacing the torque converter, the
technician updated the computer system
with the latest calibration. The test
drive went flawlessly and transmission
worked great.

Time Flies

After several visits back to


the transmission shop for the same
complaint, my friend came looking

28

1peteH715.indd 28

for me. I told him that, to find the


problem, they had to duplicate the
condition. He asked me if Id
check his truck to see if I could see
anything wrong. So we went for a ride
together.
While driving around, I noticed
that he was a pretty aggressive driver.
I asked him to describe the condition
that causes the problem. He said the
transmission seemed to work perfectly
most of the time, but sometimes when
hes backing up, the transmission would
go to neutral.
So I asked him to show me
what he was talking about. He then
pulled into a large parking lot and
parked. He engaged reverse and
started backing up. As the vehicle
speed started to increase to 5 MPH

10 MPH 20 MPH 30 MPH


and then oh my goodness, we
were going 40 MPH in reverse!
the transmission finally dropped into
neutral.
As vehicle speed dropped below
40 MPH, the transmission reengaged
and continued backing up. After we
came to a stop, I reached over and
smacked him on the back of the head
and asked him if he was nuts.
After this hair-raising test drive,
we drove back to the ATRA shop so
I could install a pressure gauge in the
line pressure tap and connect a scan
tool to the diagnostic link connector
(DLC). With the gauge and scan tool
connected, we took it for another test
drive.
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:50 AM

As he starting to accelerate in
reverse, I monitored the line pressure and
the gear command to the transmission.
As the speed increased to 40 MPH in
reverse, I noticed the pressure gauge
drop from 240 PSI to 15 PSI, which is
why the transmission dropped out of
reverse.
At the same time I checked the
signal to pressure control solenoid
A on the scan tool: The computer
was commanding the pressure drop.
According to the data showing on the
scan tool, the gear command didnt
change. All indications were that the

GEARS July 2015

1peteH715.indd 29

computer system had commanded the


pressure drop.
With the problem confirmed to be
a computer control issue, I knew the
transmission wasnt the problem; it
was just doing what it was told to do.
So it was time to do a little research:
I accessed Ford Motor Companys
web site to see if there were any
updates available for this condition.
There werent.
Next, I spoke with an engineer
at Ford. He confirmed that this was
indeed part of the programming
strategy to help protect the

transmission. In this case, there was


no repair needed and the vehicle
was operating the way it was supposed
to.
So, if you run into a vehicle with
a problem that you just cant duplicate,
ask the customer if he can show you
what its doing. You may find that the
vehicle is operating as designed and that
you may just have a loose nut behind
the wheel. With a better understanding
about how todays vehicles operate,
it should be pretty easy to keep those
trannys rolling.

29

6/22/15 7:50 AM

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6/22/15 8:38 AM

UP YOUR BUSINESS

When Enough
Is Enough;
PART 3

p Your Business is an
exclusive GEARS Magazine
feature in which I share
stories, insights, and reflections about
real business and life challenges.
Our industry is in its seventh
decade, so it isnt surprising that many
shop owners are considering leaving
their businesses some want to retire
and others just want to move on to
something else.
The Small Business Administration reports that less than 1/3 of
todays small business owners have a
plan for when and how to gracefully,
securely, and happily get out of
business at the right time.
Parts 1 and 2 of this article
focused on when and whether its time
to consider getting out. Answering
yes to all three of the following
questions is a good indicator that
youre a candidate for making
a change:
1. Have I had enough?
2. Do I have enough?
3. Will I have enough to do?
Please refer to parts 1 and 2 for
more details.

32

1tschetter715.indd 32

No matter what your age or


current situation, someday youll exit
your business. Here are some creative
strategies regarding how to do it while
you still have some say in the matter.
Incidentally, if your dream is someday
to own a business, you might also
benefit from these ideas.
This article focuses on some
creative ways to structure sales of
businesses. Any purchase or sale of a
business should include professional
legal and financial advisors for
both parties.

NO RIGHT OR WRONG
JUST DIFFERENT

Its important to understand that


theres really no one right or wrong
way to sell or buy a business. It comes
down to whats best for the parties.
And since were all different people
with different needs, desires, and
circumstances, different is a good
word to describe the variety of sales
strategies Ive observed over my 40+
years in business.
First you need to come to grips
with what your ultimate objective is.

by Thom Tschetter

For instance, do you want to


fully retire, semi-retire, or pursue
something new?
Lets look at some of the creative
ways business owners have structured
sales or restructured their businesses
to accomplish their different individual objectives. Even if you dont
potentially see yourself in any of these
examples, at least youll see theres no
right or wrong way just different.
A word of advice: earnestly seek
a win-win sales agreement. If theres
ever a situation in which karma
comes into play, its in selling a
business. Win-lose or lose-win
agreements dont last and usually end
up in a mess.

TRADITIONAL SALE

Most people think of a traditional


sale as an all-cash sale. The seller
and buyer negotiate a selling price
and the buyer pays cash to the seller
at closing.
But in todays business world,
if commercial financing is involved,
the all-cash sale has become
practically obsolete.
Even with an SBA-guaranteed
loan, the seller will likely be asked
to carry a promissory note to show
good faith.

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:53 AM

NON-TRADITIONAL
SALE ALTERNATIVES

1.
Unfortunately, some businesses
simply close and liquidate the
assets. This often occurs when
the business isnt doing well, its
in a declining market area, or
in instances of illness or death.
Sometimes a nearby competitor will
purchase the phone numbers and
customer list. If the real estate is
owned, it may be possible to lease it
or convert it for another use.
Some owners sell to a trusted
2.
employee. This can result in a
smooth transition for the team and
the customers: no new faces. Its
likely that some level of creative
financing will be involved, but if its
structured well, it can work.
3. For those who plan ahead, an earnout can be an effective way to help
a trusted employee acquire equity
toward the eventual purchase of a
business. The owner and employee
structure a schedule with specific
performance criteria for both the
business and the employee.

When these criteria are achieved,


a certain amount of money is set
aside as a credit or down-payment
toward the purchase. To protect
the owner, this money should be
reserved solely for the purchase of
the business.
An Employee Stock Ownership
4.
Plan (ESOP) is a way to sell to
employees. This is a highlyregulated process that requires
a great deal of legal preparation
and a very solid business with a
profitable track record. The end
result is that the employees share
ownership in a new corporation that
purchases all or most of the business
to accommodate the departure of
the owner.
This concept is quite complex
and doesnt fit every situation. Do
some research and, if the idea has
some appeal, discuss it with an
ESOP expert.
5. A partnership with a trusted buyer
whos interested in handling the

day-to-day operations. You might


remember Al Davis, the former
general operating partner of the
Oakland Raiders football team.
Al managed the team operations
and was accountable to the other
partners for the overall performance
of the organization. The other
partners are ostensibly investors,
and they share proportionately in
the profits.
In many cases, the partners
are guaranteed some level of
income as a minimum return on
their investment. Of course, the
organizational structure could also
be a corporation or LLC.
6. A Restaurant Lease is a way
to generate passive cash flow
without giving up ownership.
It simply involves leasing or
subleasing the building and all of
the equipment; this is commonly
done in restaurants. Even if the
building is leased, this can work by

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GEARS July 2015

1tschetter715.indd 33

33

6/22/15 7:53 AM

When Enough Is Enough; Part 3

charging the new sub-lessee enough


to cover the underlying lease
payment plus additional cash flow
to the business owner. It can also
involve a purchase option, but that
isnt essential.
Perhaps the most unusual story
Ive heard of is about two business
owners who simply traded businesses.
They were each burnt out in their
respective businesses and wanted to
make a lifestyle change.
My first reaction was that the stars
must have been in perfect alignment
to pull this one off, but heres how it
went down.
A business broker had both
businesses listed for sale. He knew
both owners circumstances and that
they both wanted to do something
new. He proposed the possibility
of trading places by laying out a
positive vision that appealed to each
of them.
The creative broker helped the
owners bridge the value gap to
offset the difference in the value of
each business. He pointed out the
soft values of greater peace of mind
and a happier lifestyle for each of
them. Cash was paid to cover the
difference in values.
The broker reduced his fees, and
the business owners enjoyed a
significant tax savings.
Finding a strategic buyer is
the best way to get top dollar for a
business. It doesnt mean it wont
involve creative financing, but a

34

1tschetter715.indd 34

strategic buyer is generally willing to


pay more than a traditional buyer.
Some examples of strategic
buyers include a competitor who wants
to acquire market share quickly; a
non-competing, complementary business that wants to add a new specialty
to its service line; or a business thats
in expansion mode and is interested in
opening in a new geographic area.
Ironically, while I was in the
process of writing this article, Larry
Bloodworth and Lorraine Myers,
owners of Certified Transmissions in
Draper, Utah, announced that theyd
sold their business to a strategic
buyer, Blaine Tanner, owner of Tanner
Transmissions. Larry, Lorraine, and
Blaine have given us permission to
publish some of the key details of
the deal.
Larry and Lorraine attended a
seminar presented by Art Eastman
of Transmission Shop Sales R Us
at the ATRA Powertrain Expo two
years ago. Art spoke on how to sell a
transmission shop. Larry is grateful
to Art for his helpful seminar and
subsequent personal coaching.
In addition to what Larry refers
to as volumes of valuable information,
Art advised Larry and Lorraine to
maintain pristine financial records,
and to continue to market and run their
business as though it wasnt for sale.
According to Art, many business
owners decide to sell and then punch
out and neglect their businesses.
This leads to declining sales and loss

of value. Larry suggests that anyone


whos interested in preparing to sell
their shop should contact Art. Arts
phone number is 714-325-7777 and
his email is trans_shopsales_r_us@
hotmail.com.
As a result of Arts coaching,
Larry focused on the marketing but
admits, even though sales were strong,
he struggled with the production
end of the business. He credits
Lorraine for maintaining impeccable
financial records.
When they decided to sell, they
looked for a strategic buyer. The
second shop owner they approached
was Blaine Tanner of Tanner
Transmissions in nearby Salt Lake
City. Blaine owns and operates
an established regional chain of
transmission shops consisting of a
rebuild center and five installation
centers. Certified Transmissions was
a strategic geographic fit for Tanners
hub-and-spoke business model.
Blaine knew about Certified
and its successful track record, with
average sales of over $1 million,
traffic count of 160,000+ per day, and
the sensational internet marketing
presence and verifiable lead generation
exceeding 1500 website visitors and
350 digital marketing generated calls
per month.
Blaine immediately recognized
it as a perfect match. It presented an
opportunity to expand into a new
market area immediately, without

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:53 AM

cannibalizing his existing market


share. Certified also provided sales
and marketing systems which were
lacking at Tanners, and complemented
Tanners production capability. Blaine
agreed to pay Larry and Lorraines
asking price and, with some creative
financing, a deal was struck and closed
within four weeks.
The basic deal structure included
the purchase of Larry and Lorraines
business and assets but not the
business name or real estate. Tanner
leases the building and land from
Larry and Lorraine on a long-term
lease
agreement
with
renewal
options. Larry also joined the Tanner
Transmissions team as the director of
sales and marketing the very thing
that Larry most loves to do.
Larry and I discussed his answer
to the 3 key questions contemplated
in this article series: Have I had
enough? Do I have enough? And will
I have enough to do? He responded,
Id definitely had enough of certain

GEARS July 2015

1tschetter715.indd 35

aspects of the business, but I still love


the marketing piece. Because of the
nature of the deal, we have enough
financially. And last of all, with my
new role with Tanner Transmissions,
I have enough to do and Im
doing something I love. I couldnt
be happier.
Larry, Lorraine, and Blaine are all
thrilled with the resulting deal. At this
point it looks like the perfect example
of a win-win strategic acquisition
and sale.
In conclusion, I hope these three
articles have been helpful enough
to get you started with planning for
the day youll eventually exit your
business. My dad once told me, Son,
you cant take it with you, and Ive
never seen a hearse pulling a U-haul.
As always, if you have questions
or comments, please submit them by
email to coachthom@gmail.com

Share Your Stories


If youve personally experienced
a weird or unusual customer dispute
and wouldnt mind sharing it to help
your industry, please contact me. You
just tell me the story and Ill do all the
heavy lifting to write it.
We can make it an article
about you, or you may remain
anonymous. The main thing is we
want to share stories that will help
others avoid similar problems. Call
me at 480-773-3131 or email to me at
coachthom@gmail.com.
About the Author
Thom Tschetter has served our
industry for nearly four decades as
a management and sales educator.
He owned a chain of award-winning
transmission centers in Washington
State for over 25 years.
He calls on over 15 years of
experience as a certified arbitrator for
topics for this feature column.
Thom is always eager to help
members of our industry and continues
to be proactive in pursuing ways to
improve your business and your life.

35

6/22/15 7:54 AM

"H

i there young man,


whats your job?
Im
the
shop

foreman.
What does that mean? Is the
definition of shop foreman the same
in most shops? Its true that the same
overall duties appear in one shop as
another but is the job description the
same? Does it even matter?
Most business owners are familiar
with the use of a job description to
define the part that a person plays in
the organization, but they often stop

1chatcart 715.indd 36

too soon when considering how the


description actually works. Here are the
parts of a typical job description:
Title (shop foreman, office
manager, technician, etc.)
Functions to be performed
(supervising others, scheduling,
managing inventory, customer
relations, rebuilding transmissions)
Quality standards to be met and
pay to be received for the position
Then it often goes on to explain
operational things, such as shop hours,
vacation pay, and benefits.

But does the description really tell


you what the persons job is? I dont
think so. It shows you the functions
but not the purpose of the functions.
It shows the tasks but not the reason
for the tasks. It shows the what but not
the why.
Lets expand the discussion. Now
Im asking you, What are you paid
to do? What do you do thats worth
paying for? Why is the shop even worth
having? In short, what value are you
providing to the customers?

6/23/15 10:51 AM

When your employees serve customers in ways that theyre


happily willing to pay for, then your business will flourish.
And, for that matter, who is
really the boss? The boss is actually
the customer the true boss who
funds your employees paychecks and
determines whether your business will
thrive or fail.
When your employees serve
customers in ways that theyre happily
willing to pay for, then your business
will flourish. So no matter how you
value their work, if the customer doesnt
value it, then it wont last.
Years ago my company sold
inspiring motivational recordings by
Earl Nightingale. One of those was
entitled The Boss. Here it is in an
article: www.nightingale.com/articles/
the-boss-2/ and heres a link to it in a
12-minute YouTube video: youtu.be/
gTQU-iE3mvg.
I encourage you to download the
article and watch the video with your
team. The ensuing discussion as to how
this message applies to your day-to-day
business will be pure gold to your shop
and your team.
The why of a transmission business
is this: so that cars will run as theyre
supposed to and provide reliable
transportation for their owners. We all
get that, but how often do you actually
think and talk about it?
Lets go back to the job description
idea. How about replacing the existing
ones with descriptions like these:
1. What youre paid to do A
specific description of the
actual value that customers and

GEARS July 2015

1chatcart 715.indd 37

coworkers receive when your


employee does what he or she
does and does it well. This is a
description of the outcomes he
produces.
2. Your areas of responsibility A
list of the areas your employee
is accountable for and in which
hell be involved, such as
generating new business, assuring
that customers are satisfied,
performing quality control checks
on jobs, managing schedules
and accounting, cleaning and
caring for tools, keeping records,
maintaining inventories, ordering
parts, delivering vehicles, etc.
3. What is expected of you
This is the description of
your expectations of how the
employees work should be
done: show up on time without
reminders; be clean, sober and
pleasant to deal with; care for your
tools; support and cooperate with
coworkers; treat all customers
with respect and courtesy; be
honest in all dealings; etc.)
4. What you can expect from your
employer This is what matters
to your employee and what he or
she can assume will be provided,
such as a good place to work
thats safe from the elements,
clean and well-supplied with
the tools needed to do his work
well; paychecks that show up on
time in the right amounts and

can be cashed immediately;


support and encouragement from
you and access to you when
needed; training and education
to continually improve his skills
and knowledge; and opportunities
to earn more by becoming worth
more in actual value to the
customers and the company.
Instead of adding more to the
description, consider creating a small
policy manual that explains shop
hours, operating procedures, time off,
vacation pay, benefits, etc. Keep this
separate from the role description but
give everyone a copy and seek their
continued input to improve it.
By shifting from the usual
descriptions of functions to the more
effective descriptions of outcomes and
the values they bring, your employees
will become more customer-service
oriented and more conscious of how
they fit into the overall operation.
Theyll also see how to make
themselves even more valuable to the
company and the customer. And who
knows? That customer just might give
you a raise!
Jim Cathcart, CSP, CPAE is
a strategic advisor to ATRA and the
author of 16 books on management
and sales. His firm coaches business
people in how to increase their
success by following the natural laws
of achievement. For free articles and
resources visit Cathcart.com and come
see Jim at Expo!

37

6/22/15 7:57 AM

Internet
Price Shoppers
and Financing

by Corey Turner

n my last article (Dec. 2014 issue), I talked


about using Google Adwords and Bing
Ads pay-per-click to drive customers to
your web site. One of the biggest complaints
I get about internet leads is customers who
dont have the money to fix their cars.
A recent call transmission shops as
a customer study found that around 40%
of transmission repair shops offer no form
of financing and around 65% are quoting
at least a ballpark price for rebuilds over
the phone.
The price range for a transmission
rebuild isnt a mystery to the internet
shopper. There are web sites that give
approximate cost information for used,
rebuilt, and reman transmissions online.
Simply search transmission repair cost,
and prices around $1800 to $3500 show up
immediately.
An estimated 60,000 visitors in the U.S.
see this pricing on a monthly basis, based
on search engine estimates. So internet
shoppers already know, before they call
around, what its going to cost to fix or
replace their transmissions.
If the customer knows they dont
have the cash or credit line, and you arent
offering financing options on that initial
phone call or on your web site, they more
than likely are going to keep shopping until
they find someone who does.
Consider a $2400 transmission repair:
That can be tough for many customers to
come up with (cash or available credit). A
customer without cash or available credit
is going to consider a used transmission or
trade-in, unless youre offering financing
options for rebuilds and replacements. They
may call you, but they may not show up
for that appointment if you arent offering
financing, especially if a competitor or
general repair shop is.
38

1InternetFinancing715.indd 38

Today there are multiple options for


financing, each with its own advantages and
disadvantages. In the Drivetrain Technology
2015 Marketing Survey that went out in
January, we asked who you were using for
financing. These are the main financing
companies used by transmission repair
shops today:
Synchrony/CarCareOne
Springleaf
Cross-Check
Easypay
Globalcheck
Secure Payment Systems
Local Title Loan
In-House
Any financing program
will have a variety of approval
ratings and details, but by having
at least one or two financing options
to mention on the phone will result
in more customers showing up for
appointments and more repairs
completed.
Financing can help solve your
customers wants and your wants at
the same time. And having the right
financing program for your customer
can make a big difference to your
bottom line!

Corey Turner at Drivetrain Technology started generating internet leads for the
industry in 2006 and is always available to help
with your online advertising or financing questions corey@drivetraintech.com, or visit him on
line at www.drivetraintech.com.

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:58 AM

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atra expo 715 1pgr.indd 2

6/22/15 8:39 AM

GRAND BLANC, Mich. GMs


Techline Information System or
TIS includes service applications
used around the world to
diagnose and repair GM vehicles.
Independent shops can affordably
put this crucial technology in
technicians hands, maximizing
the ability to grow their
businesses and their customers
confidence. (TIS was renamed
TIS2Web when the service was
moved to an online portal.)
For GM vehicle repairs, TIS2Web,
the right scan tools and quality OE
parts put independent repair
shops on a level technology
playing field with the dealer
service community, said Bob
Stewart, Customer Care and
Aftersales. Our customers are
amazed when they see how easy
and affordable TIS2Web can be,
and they are using it to speed
service repair, control costs by
reducing comebacks, and improve
their profitability.

GM July2015.indd 40

To demonstrate how easy it is to


use TIS2Web, GM has developed
all the right resources including
user guides, technical FAQs and
tutorial videos to support
independent repair shops that
diagnose and calibrate GM
vehicles using GM Techline
software applications.
The videos are on the
TechConnect website have been
especially
popular
with
aftermarket technicians who
have taken programming inhouse. They cover critical areas
that generate the most questions
at the Aftermarket Technical
Support Center in Michigan. The
tutorials include how-to (or
basic) instructions for subscribing
to TIS2Web and GM Service
Information, as well as more
technical guidance when using
GM Global Diagnostic System 2,
Tech2Win and the GM Multi
Diagnostic Interface (MDI).
One of the most significant video

tutorials covers the Service


Programming System (SPS)
available in an online TIS2Web
subscription that updates the
flash calibration files stored in the
vehicles onboard computer.
Using a J2534 programming

interface tool, technicians can use


SPS to update or reprogram a
vehicle with updated software.
TIS2Web includes GM vehicle
calibrations, Global Diagnostic

6/22/15 8:33 AM

System (GDS2) software and Tech2


diagnostic updates that allow
technicians to diagnose GM
vehicles quickly and accurately.
Another benefit is access to trained
aftermarket technical support for
time-sensitive diagnostic software
support. Technicians couple these
applications with a subscription to
GM Service Information (GMSi)
the most comprehensive collection
of vehicle diagnostic and service
repair manuals for GM vehicles.
GMSi offers vehicle diagnostic
information,
collision
repair
manuals,
campaigns,
service
bulletins
and
preliminary
information for GM vehicles.
We know many shops send their
customers to their competitors
or
outsource
the
service
programming because they
didnt have the right tools to
confidently identify and make the
repair, said Stewart. Or, they ate
into their profits and productivity
by spending hours on a vehicle that
could have been diagnosed and

include
short-term
repaired quickly. That impacts Options
subscriptions
to
specific
customer service.
applications as well as more
Knowing
independent
shops comprehensive annual service
service other vehicle makes and bundles. Shops can choose a plan
models, GM pricing makes that best suits their needs, budgets
TIS2Web accessible and affordable. and clientele.

To sign up for TIS2Web, visit GM TechConnect, register and follow


the prompts to subscribe to TIS2Web. If youre already registered,
simply sign in. For more information call 888-212-8959.

GM July2015.indd 41

6/22/15 8:33 AM

THE REVENUE GROWTH HABIT

The
Million Dollar
Question
by Alex Goldfayn

was at the Minneapolis airport waiting


to board my flight home and went to
buy a cup of coffee. The young lady at
the counter took my order and then asked if I
would like a bottle of water with that.
What a great question! Im getting on an
airplane; of course I want a bottle of water!
Its a smart, opportunistic, and highly
valuable question.
Do they teach you to ask that
question? I asked.
Yes, its a part of our training,
she replied.
How many people buy a bottle of
water?
Without hesitating, she replied, Almost
everyone.
Guess how much the bottle of water cost?
Five dollars!
My coffees price was $3.
Now, consider the immense power of this
single question: it nearly triples this coffee
shops revenue. My order went from $3 to $8.
It took the seller two seconds to ask.
It cost nothing to implement.
The customer (me) was quite happy at the
sellers suggestion, because it helped me, and
I was happy to pay for it. In fact, I would have
bought the bottle of water elsewhere before
getting on the flight. But this woman behind
the counter saved me the time of making that
extra stop. I was grateful for her suggestion.
One helpful question for nearly triple the
revenue.
42

1AlexGoldfayn715.indd 42

Whats your version of this question? Whats


your bottle of water?
I can answer the first question, but only you
can answer the second.
Heres your version of would you like a
bottle of water with that?:
Did you know we also do (or make) x, y, or z?
My clients dubbed this the did-you-know
question.
Of all 22 techniques that I implement for my
clients, this is one of the two most effective
ones. The did-you-know question can grow
your business by 15% annually, from the
moment you start asking it.
Here are three ways you can implement this at
your shop:
1. Just like the coffee shop counter lady, all
customer-facing people can ask the didyou-know question to every customer,
in person or on the phone. Look at what
theyre buying and consider asking if they
need something complimentary.
2. Add the did-you-know question to every
email you send. You can type it into the
body of the email, or
3. Add the did-you-know question to
the signature of all your emails. Do
this company-wide, for everyone
sending emails.
Consider all the different products or
services your company sells: your entire
product catalog and the total range of your
services. Thats 100% of your offerings. What
percentage do you think the average customer
is aware of?
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 7:59 AM

Ive studied this among my clients. The


average customers awareness of all they
can buy from you is about 20%. That means
people cant buy 80% of what you make or do.
Even if youve told them you do something, it
doesnt mean theyre consciously aware of it!
Think about this: Your customers enjoy doing
business with you; thats why they keep
coming back. They buy things from you that
they find valuable and helpful, which is why
theyve been with you for years.
They need other things you can sell them. In
fact, chances are theyre already buying those
things from others. Theyd like to buy these
things, or services, from you, and youd like
to sell it to them, but none of it can happen
because your customers are simply unaware
of what they can buy from you!

Since were adding line items or options to


an order with this question, lets assume that
10% of all did-you-know questions result
in an order. (My clients average about 20%
success rate, but lets be conservative.)
And lets assume the average line item is
$300, but use your own numbers.
Thats $1,875,000 in new business.
But if you hit the average, youd be at $3.75
million in new business.
And if your average line item is $1000, youre
at $12.5 million!
See how this works?
Just like selling water with coffee.
Whats your bottle of water?

Its almost tragic.


We solve this problem by asking the very
simple and straightforward did-you-know
question.
Lets assume you have five people at your
company who interact with customers, by
phone and email, a total of 50 times per day
each. Thats 250 interactions per day, 1,250
per week, or 62,500 communications per year.

Alex Goldfayn is the CEO of the


Evangelist
Marketing
Institute,
and author of the brand new book
The Revenue Growth Habit, which
details all 22 of his powerful, no-cost
business-growth techniques. Learn
more at www.Evangelistmktg.com

Why Pay More?


No reason to spend more just because its in
an Original Equipment box when the Rostra part
is identical and sells for less.

Why Take A Risk?


No reason to risk buying a part from overseas
when just a little bit more gets you the reliable part
from an American OE manufacturer.
Available from your favorite distributor.

Rostra

Made in the USA

www.RostraTransmission.com
See the story behind OE-quality parts.

GEARS July 2015

1AlexGoldfayn715.indd 43

43

6/22/15 8:00 AM

Cottman Transmission
and Total Auto Care

LEAPS INTO
THE DIGITAL AGE
O

ne of my most important responsibilities as ATRA CEO is to travel


around the world, meeting with
transmission repair professionals and
keeping abreast of whats going on in our
industry. Its also one of my favorite parts
of the job!
This past May 2nd I was in Myrtle
Beach, South Carolina, to take part in the
2015 Cottman National Convention, an
annual event for Cottman center owners.
Why Cottman? As youre probably
aware, every Cottman center is also an
ATRA Member. And this event brought
dozens of ATRA Members together
under one roof, so it only made sense that
ATRA be represented there.
There were a lot of things being
shared at this event, but one of the best
for me was meeting with the many
Cottman center owners from all around
the country. That meeting strengthened
my belief that Cottman center owners
are no different than any other ATRA
Members. Franchise or not, they still
want to provide the best service to their
customers, and they take great pride in
our industry. Im honored to have them as
part of our Association.
I also have to give both the shop
owners and the company their props:
This event boasted an attendance of
70% of the companys franchisees!
Thats an outstanding presence and it
just reinforces my admiration for their
dedication.
And I wasnt alone with that
sentiment. Cottman President Randy
Wright had this to say about the shops in
attendance: This was the highest turnout
any of us can remember for a convention;
Im very proud of our franchisees for the
commitment they displayed to Cottman
44

1CottmanConvention715.indd 44

and the industry with their attendance.


The event began on Friday with a
golf tournament; the first in Cottmans
history. The tournament was sponsored
by The Fairway Group, Cottmans
certified
marketing
representative
regarding the Yellow Pages.
After the tournament, everyone got
together for a welcome dinner buffet at
Margaritaville, sponsored by OReilly,
Synchrony, and Marlane Graphics.

PROFITING IN
THE DIGITAL AGE

The conventions theme was


Profiting in the Digital Age, and the
bulk of the seminars were based on
that concept.
This was a new approach for
Cottman and, quite frankly, it had a few
people nervous. Lets face it: Focusing
on a single subject can come back to bite
you if interest in that topic falls flat.
Bob Afflerback, Cottman technical
director, explained it this way: Ive been
in the transmission business for a long
time, so I understand the mindset of a lot
of shop owners. Its tough to break old
habits, but its a change thats necessary.
Sue Burg, senior director of
advertising, has been at the forefront
of Cottmans marketing strategy for
over 30 years. Shes witnessed firsthand
how the marketing world has changed:
When I started, we didnt even have
fax machines! Our primary advertising
media was the sports section in the
Sunday newspaper.
If my phone was ringing on
Monday morning, it was because
someones ad didnt run and they knew
it because their phone wasnt ringing.
And if you made a mistake with that or

by Dennis Madden
members.atra.com

the Yellow Pages, you were stuck with it.


Internet marketing has changed things
dramatically: If you arent happy with an
online ad, you can change it in minutes.
While the internet has leveled the
playing field when it comes to digital
marketing, its constantly changing,
and an owner needs to be aware of
the various ways to leverage it, says
Derik Beck, Cottmans vice president of
digital marketing.
A small center can create a very
powerful impression to customers with
the correct internet presence. Thats
a terrific advantage, especially when
competing against large brands, but
Google only allows so much space on
page one, so you need to be focused on
the various ways of getting your center
ranked correctly. Cottman is committed
to becoming a leader in digital marketing
for our franchisees.
Once the program began it earnest,
it quickly became evident that it was a
hit with the attendees. It didnt hurt that
some of the biggest online players were
represented at the seminars and the
vendor showcase.
Presenters
included
Google,
Amazon Local, Angies List, Merchant
Centric, YEXT, Yodle, and of course,
ATRA. There was even someone there
to discuss the business-to-business
advantages of LinkedIn: Turns out its
more than just a way to remember a
business associates birthday who
knew?
While the shop owners were taking
part in the digital training seminars,
Cottmans Joe Josko was running a
separate seminar for center managers to
help refresh their skills: Putting the Sizzle
Back in Sales.
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:01 AM

ATRA HAS
STEPPED UP TO
THE PLATE AND
BROUGHT US
SOME OF THE
BEST BUSINESS
TRAINERS IN
THE INDUSTRY.
DOUG DIRKS
DIRKS AUTOMOTIVE
& TRANSMISSION

AT ATRA, TRANSMISSIONS ARE ALL WE DO.


ATRA has always been a great technical resource. But, in todays business
environment, it takes more than being just a great technician to survive. ATRA
has stepped up to the plate and brought us some of the best business trainers
in the industry. Along with their continuous market research, our industry will
continue to thrive. Thank you ATRA for your support of our Industry.
Doug Dirks, Owner of Dirks Automotive & Transmission
Oroville, CA

JOIN TODAY

MEMBERS.ATRA.COM // 1-866-GO-4-ATRA
atra testimonial1214.indd 2

6/22/15 8:42 AM

Cottman Transmission and Total Auto Care Leaps into the Digital Age

The program broke around noon for


lunch, which was sponsored by Transtar.
After lunch, attendees were divided
into four groups, and each group took
part one of four smaller, more intimate
programs. Then, every hour, the groups
rotated, so everyone got a chance to take
part in each program.
Late in the afternoon the event
changed course, from training to
business contact, with a vendor showcase
sponsored by Yodle. There were almost
30 vendors there, including ATRA.

AWARDS PRESENTED
After the showcase, everyone got
together for an awards dinner sponsored
by Autozone. Several shops, managers,
and technicians received awards to
honor their superior performance and
dedication to the industry:
Presidents Award for Excellence
Ozzie Bombaro,
Woodbury Heights, NJ,
and Lansdale, PA.
Cottman Man Award
Randy and Rusty Cato,
New Orleans, Gretna,
and La Place, LA.
Founders Award
Rick White, Raleigh, NC.
Person of the Year
Jim Dietvorst
Denver and Wheat Ridge, CO. Jim and
his centers were profiled in January/
February 2015 issue of GEARS
Magazine.
The Transmission Physician
Mike Morrison, Spartanburg, SC.
Manager of the Year
Greg Hulce, Louisville, KY.
Top National Account Development
(shared by two centers)
Jim Harrington, Mauldin, SC; and
Bob and Cindy Cowie, Norfolk, VA.
Top Business to Business
Customer Development
(shared by three centers)
Jim Dietvorst,
Denver/Wheat Ridge, CO;
Rick White, Raleigh, NC;
and Don Lenartz, Grand Rapids, MI.
Technical Proficiency Award
(shared by two technicians)
David Earp, Trenton, NJ; and
Ted Reinert Woodbury Heights, NJ.
46

1CottmanConvention715.indd 46

In addition, 14 Cottman centers


were honored for providing consistently outstanding levels of customer
service:
Denver and Wheat Ridge, Colorado
Fern Park, Florida
Mundelein, Illinois
Grand Rapids, Michigan
Gladstone, Missouri
Trenton, New Jersey
Beaverton, Oregon
West Mifflin and Stroudsburg,
Pennsylvania
The Woodlands, Texas
Richmond, Virginia
Vancouver, Washington
Racine, Wisconsin

SUNDAY PROGRAMS
Sunday morning began with
a group breakfast that featured
an omelet station. I went on
immediately after breakfast with a
short presentation about ATRA and
the many services we offer, such as
ATRA Online and the Golden Rule
Warranty.
A few other seminars followed,
with the event wrapping up at noon.
All and all it was a terrific
event. Shop owners received a lot of
valuable information and discovered
new ways to improve their online
visibility. No doubt a lot of Cottman
center owners will be making some
changes to their internet marketing
strategies based on what they
learned.
My hats off to the management
at Cottman: They took a real gamble
and put on a terrific program one
thats sure to make a difference for
many Cottman centers.
And I hope some of those
same shop owners will join us at
this years Expo at the Rio in Las
Vegas. I want to hear how youve
applied what you learned at this
program and get your input at our
management seminars. Ill look
forward to seeing you there!

Everyone got together for the Friday night welcome dinner at


Margaritaville in Myrtle Beach.

Guest instructor Kevin Knebl shows attendees the value of LinkedIn


for B2B marketing.

Attendees were transfixed as they learned new approaches to


marketing through digital media.

Everyone got together on Saturday morning for breakfast as they


prepared for a fast-paced day of seminars.

ATRAs booth on the Cottman tradeshow floor, with (from left to


right) ATRA CEO Dennis Madden, Cottman Technical Director Robert
Afflerback, and Cottman President Randy Wright.

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:02 AM

Atra BookStore July2015.indd 1

6/22/15 8:43 AM

SHOP PROFILE

by Steve Bodofsky
members.atra.com

The crew at Lodi Transmissions, from L to R: Troy Montantes, Jose Hernandez, Hector Castillo,
Larry and Genie Gilman, Ron Goiorani, Jason McCafferty, and Chris McIntosh.

lot of shops have begun to


focus their attention on a
wide range of marketing
programs to bring more customers into
their shops.
Larry Gilman and Ron Goiorani,
owners of Lodi Transmissions, Inc.,
in Lodi, California, have chosen
a slightly different path. Oh, sure,
they have a web site www.
transmissionlodi.com and they still
have a presence in the Yellow Pages.
We do a little with Instagram and
Im planning on putting a Facebook
page together in the near future,
says Ron.
But their primary focus is a more
basic, time-tested approach: wordof-mouth referrals. And theyve built
up those referrals over the years
by providing excellent service at a
fair price.
48

1ShopProfile 715.indd 48

700-R4 Conversion in a 56 Chevy PU, ready for delivery.

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:03 AM

Sure, it took years to build


the reputation that Larry and Ron
enjoy. But its paying off in terms of
customer referrals.

A LITTLE HISTORY

Larry got into the business


through his stepfather, who was
working for a transmission shop in
South San Francisco. I got a job there
learning R&R work. But the trip was
getting to be too much, so I switched
to a couple general repair shops that
were closer to where I was living,
he says.
Later he took a job at a
transmission shop in Berkley. There
he worked his way up from R&R tech
to rebuilder, then to shop manager,
and finally became a part owner. In
1987 he opened Transmissions of
Fremont. Then, in 2002, he decided
hed had enough, so he sold the shop
and retired.
About a year after his retirement,
Larry called me, says Ron. He
realized he missed his customers
and wasnt ready to retire yet. So
we joined forces and opened Lodi
Transmissions. Lodi Transmissions
officially opened on April 1, 2003.
Rons background was similar
to Larrys, in that he, too, started at
the bottom and worked his way up. I
started with Schucks Transmission
and Auto Repair in 1988 as an R&R
man, and worked my way up to
rebuilder shop foreman and
finally shop manager.
I got my start learning general
repair in a cooperative program in
high school. I was working for a
shop in Colorado when the economy
there tanked, so I moved back to the
bay area.
I
had
some
transmission
experience, so one day I just walked
into Schucks and asked if they
were hiring. They hired me on the
spot. I was there until about 2000
when I started doing some auto
restoration work.

EXCLUSIVELY POWERTRAIN
REPAIR FOR NOW!

Lodi Transmission presently


advertises itself as a transmission
and powertrain repair shop. They
do transmissions, transfer cases,

GEARS July 2015

1ShopProfile 715.indd 49

Businees Partners Larry Gilman (L) and wife Genie with Ron Goiorani
in the office at Lodi Transmissions.

Larry inspects a '33 Ford for additional repairs during the rebuilding process.

differentials, and clutches, according


to their web site.
Well do other types of repair if
we find a problem while the cars here
for transmission repairs, explains
Ron. But were under agreement
not to offer general repair for another
couple years.
Thats because Lodi Transmission
is located in a strip mall, and the
owner also owns a Midas shop. The
mall owner wanted Lodi to move
in he built their shop to their
specifications but insisted that they
agree not to compete with his business
for a certain number of years.

When that agreement expires,


Larry and Ron are planning to add
general repair to their business model.
They recognize that general repair
offers benefits for building customer
relationships that arent available to
the transmission-only shop.
Theres a lot to be said for
handling the maintenance from the
time the cars new and building that
rapport with the customer, says Larry.
I think thats the wave of the future.
I dont think the transmission
repair industry will ever go by the
wayside; at least I hope it doesnt! he
continued. It takes constant training
49

6/22/15 8:03 AM

Lodi Transmissions, Inc., Lodi, CA

'33 Ford four door having transmission rebuilt.

would be our outside salesperson,


Ron says, with just a tinge of humor in
his voice.

DO THE JOB RIGHT

Service writer, Jose Hernandez


in the office.

to keep up, but the business has been


good to us over the years.
Even with the non-compete
agreement, the partners agree that it
was a terrific move for them. Our old
shop was right across the street from
our current location, says Ron. We
were there for about five-and-a-half
years.
At the time, the owner of the
Midas was building the strip mall, and
he approached Larry and Ron about
moving in. He let us design our new
shop the way we wanted it, so we
moved in as soon as it was done.
While their primary focus is retail
work, about 20% of their repairs come
from wholesale customers.
We go out and visit other shops
from time to time and solicit their
work, says Ron. But they dont have
a regular outside salesperson. Larry
50

1ShopProfile 715.indd 50

Their business philosophy is to


do the job right the first time.
And, according to Ron, part of that
means not being afraid to use the
parts that are necessary. To them, a
transmission repair isnt just about
replacing whats worn out; its also
about the updates that bring the unit
up to like-new condition.
To make sure theyre repairing
those
transmissions
properly,
Lodi Transmissions has the latest
vacuum test stand for valve body
testing, reamers for a wide range of
transmission parts, and they keep up
with all the latest technical issues.
They also recognize that the
business is about more than the
car itself: Having empathy for the
customer and listening to what they
think their problem is thats key,
says Larry.
They might hit it on the head,
they might not, but generally, if you
keep your mouth shut and you listen to
them, youll get a pretty good idea of
whats going on. There arent a lot of
people who do that any more.
We hear it all the time: I went
into that other shop and told them what
was wrong; they fixed five or six other
things, but they didnt fix what I was
complaining about. And sure, that
other work was probably necessary,
but not until you take care of the
customers complaint.

Chris McIntosh doing valve body repair.

They do most of their transmission repairs in house, though they do


supplement when necessary with a few
remans. Their use of remans is often
an issue of economics: Some units
just cost more to rebuild than a reman,
so the reman just makes sense.
In other situations, theyll use
remans when they have too much
work for their rebuilder to keep up.
The remans allow us to get the car
fixed and back to the customer in a
reasonable timeframe.
They dont use a lot of remans
some weeks well use a couple; other
times we can go for weeks without
needing any but they find them
to be a great buffer to help serve their
customers and get them back on the
road quickly.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

Of course, a hallmark of any good


shop is serving the community, and
Lodi Transmissions is no exception:
We sponsor local sports teams on a
regular basis, says Ron. And theyve
sponsored the occasional car show on
their lot.
From time to time theyll hold a
benefit carwash for various charitable
groups or situations. Occasionally
someone from the neighborhood
passes away, and the family will
approach us to run a car wash to
help raise money for the funeral,
explains Ron.
Another way Lodi Transmissions
gets noticed around town is by
taking part in the local, semiannual
street fair. We set up a booth, not to
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:04 AM

Hector Castillo removes another tranmission for rebuild.

sell anything, but to provide public


information, says Ron.
Well think of a theme
maintenance or custom parts
and create a display based on that
theme. More than anything, we get
approached by folks who want to
ask about their cars. So it gives us
an opportunity to provide a public
service and get our faces out in the
public eye.
And, according to Ron, they can
attribute at least some of their new
customers directly to having met them
at the street fair.
But probably the best part of the
street fair for Larry and Ron are the
past customers they run into: Hey,
Lodi Transmission! My cars still
running great!

LONGTIME ATRA MEMBERS

Lodi Transmissions has been an


ATRA Member since the day they
opened. And both Larry and Ron
were Members before that: Larry
was a Member with his first shop,
Transmissions of Fremont, and Rons
old employer, Schucks Transmissions,
was a Member, too.
The reason? The tech support
and the coast-to-coast warranty, says
Ron. When we have a transmission
that we dont see very often, our
rebuilder always checks ATRA Online
for any updates or issues to watch for,
to make sure we dont miss anything.
And both Larry and Ron are
really excited about the webinars.
When a new one comes out, they plan
a group lunch and have everyone sit in
GEARS July 2015

1ShopProfile 715.indd 51

Ron Goiorani working on fabrication for a 200-4R conversion.

on the program. Its convenient; well


get everyone together and order a few
pizzas. Its a great way to keep up with
the latest tech.
Theyre also big supporters
of ATRAs technical certification
program. In fact, Ron recently earned
his Master certification; no small feat!
And one of their technicians, Troy
Montantes, is working toward his, too.
Ron claims the effort to earn that
certification is worthwhile, and he
learned a lot preparing for the tests:
Earning my certification solidified
my involvement with ATRA, and
Ive found that a lot of what I learned
studying for the tests has been useful
in the shop on a day-to-day basis.
And that certification earned them
top placement on ATRAs ShopFinder
search engine. Thats a valuable
benefit, and one thats paying off in
terms of additional referrals from the
ATRA web site.

AFTER HOURS

While the shop keeps Larry and


Ron busy, they do have their free time
interests: Ron is an avid outdoorsman.
I used to race mountain bikes, and
today I enjoy hiking, backpacking, and
mountain climbing. And my family
and I enjoy boating and wakeboarding,
which we get to do out here at the delta.
Ron shares his interests with his
wife, Rachel, and his sons, Zack (19)
and Jason (16). He also has a daughter,
AmberJo (21), but she prefers her
own path.
Much of Larrys free time is
dedicated to working on his hotrod.

We have a lot of people out here


that have hotrods, he says. And
Lodi Transmissions picks up a lot of
business serving the hotrod owners in
their community.
When we moved into our present
location, I made a call and within
two days we had 55 hotrods in the lot
for our grand opening on Saturday
morning. Wed worked on the vast
majority of those cars so we know
their owners really well.
Hes just finishing up a 1956
Chevy 210 wagon street rod that hes
been working on. Its a ground-up
restoration from the frame; Im within
about a month of having it finished,
he says. Weve been working on it
for the last 10 to 12 years, a little at a
time. I cant even begin to tell you how
much money I have into it!
Larrys wife, Genie, works
with him at the shop, handling the
bookkeeping and maintaining the
office. They have a son, Jacob (33)
who tried working with his dad in the
shop, but after a few years realized
fixing cars wasnt for him.
No doubt about it: These days
there are all sorts of new ways to put
your shop out there to bring in new
customers. But Lodi Transmissions
is one shop thats proving its still
possible to run a successful business
using the old-fashioned technique of
doing honest work at a fair price.

51

6/22/15 8:04 AM

2015
TECHNICAL

LOCATIONS
August 8 - Albuquerque, NM
August 15 - Portland, OR
August 22 - Atlanta, GA
August 29 - Anaheim, CA
September 12 - Billings, MT
September 19 - Chicago, IL
September 26 - Newark, NJ
November 7 - Baltimore, MD

SEMINAR
HOW TO REGISTER

SCHEDULE

Phone

Registration ...... 7am- 8am


Seminar .......................8am
Lunch...............12pm-1pm

FEES
All Pricing in US Funds
ATRA Members
Non-Members
Every 4th person
On-site registration

toll-free: (800)

428-8489

Fax your payment & registration

information to: (805)


$165
$210
FREE
$240

988-6761

Online: http:// members.atra.com


Mail your payment to:
ATRA Seminar Registration
2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030

Whats Covered...
GENERAL MOTORS

4T45E
P1810
AF33-5
P1779
6T40
Pulse, Fishbite or Surge at 30-50 mph
6T40 Hybrid/BAS
Delayed Engagement, Slips on Takeoff, Possible P2797
6T70
Doors Lock and Unlock Uncommanded and the
Transmission Shifts to N, Code P0878
4L60E
Harsh Engagements with Firm Upshifts and Downshifts,
High Line Pressure, Codes P0171 and/or P0174
5L40E
Shifts Concerns and Shift Quality After Repair or Software
Update
6L45/50/80/90
Code P0751
6L50
Lack of Power, Possible DTCs P0008, P0009, P0116,
P0117, P0118, P0119
6L80/90
Abnormal Downshift when the Tow-Haul is Activated,
Possible Code P0719
6L90
Vibration

Atra Seminars July 2015.indd 2

1 Free Ex
Packagepo
*
awarded
at each
seminar!

8L90
Introduction
Vane-Type Binary Pump
Transmission Components
General Specifications
Introduction to Adapts
Speed Sensor Locations
Internal Mode Switch
Pump Assembly
Valve Body
Solenoids
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor
Corvette Transmission Case
4-5-6-7-8 Clutch Drum Splines
Fluid Level and Condition Check
Fluid Level and Condition Check Plug Method
Line Pressure Test
LCT 1000
No Communication with the TCM, Erratic Shifting
Generation Changes
2000-2003 Solenoid Identification
2004 Solenoid Identification
2006-2009 Solenoid Identification
2000-2009 Valve Body
2010-2013 Solenoid Identification
Trim Solenoids
TCC and Shift Solenoids
Pressure Switch Manifold
No Movement
LCT 1000 w/ MP1625/MP1626
Gear Ratio Codes, Possible Grinding Noise
*Expo Package includes 1 Complete Conference Registration & up to
4 nights hotel stay at the Rio Hotel & Casino. Must be present to win.
6/22/15 8:46 AM

GENERAL MOTORS (contd)


MP3023/3024
DTCs C0398, C038D or C0397

FORD

5R55N/S/W
No Forward/Reverse, Manual 3, 2 and 1 are Good
Neutrals on Take Off When Hot, Shift Concerns, Erratic
Shift Feel, Harsh or Flared Shifts
5R55S
Delayed and/or No Reverse or Forward
Code P0734, Delayed Reverse, Spins Out in 4th Gear
Codes P0778 & P0966
Reverse Engagement Issues
5R55W
Moaning Noise After Overhaul
No Reverse When Hot
Will Not Hold on the 2-3 Shift
6F35N
No Upshifts, Binds at Times, No Codes
6F50/55
Intermittent No Upshift, No DTCs
AF21
Harsh Reverse, Erratic Idle, Codes P1719, P0174, P0171
FNR5
Intermittent Engagement into Reverse
No Reverse, No 2nd Gear
DPS6
Operation
Introduction
Tool Needed
Clutch Reassembly
Installing the Clutch
Setting Up the Clutch
TCM and Shift Actuators
CFT30
Required Tools
Replacing the Variator Chain
5R110W
Delays in Reverse, Worse When Hot
No Engagement when Warm after Overhaul
Codes P0720, P0721, P0722, P0715, P0717, P0718,
P0791, P0793, P0794

CHRYSLER

42RLE
Limp Mode, Cant Reset Adapts
545RFE
Code P0218
62TE
Neutral on the 1-2 Shift
All Chrysler RWD Units
TCC Cycles Overhaul
545RFE
Low Line Pressure, TCC Cycles, Slips Forward and May Kill
the Engine
722.6
Multiple Ratio Codes, Vehicle No Start
Codes P0733, P0734, P0735 and P0700
Limp Mode, Code P0762
No Shifts, Multiple DTCs, Codes P0778, P0501, U140B,
U140A, C101F, C102A, C121A
Codes P1637, P1731

Atra Seminars pg2 July 2015.indd 2

CHRYSLER (contd)

Harsh 4-3 Downshift and Shift Quality


545RFE
Codes P1765, P1767
AS68RC
K3 Clutch Burnt Out
Code P0707 and P2806
Shift Issues, P0796
CVT2/JF011E
Wont Upshift Past 1:1
8HP90
Introduction
Adaptation
Thermal Management Unit
Hydraulic Impulse Storage
Start/Stop Feature
948TE/9HP48
Manual Park Release
Transmission Range Sensor
Speed Sensors
Transmission Fluid Temperature Sensor
Dog Clutch Pressure Transducer
Adaptation

IMPORT SECTION

5L40E
No Crank/Start
BVGA
Binds in Manual 1, Erratic Shift Feel
BAXA/MAXA/B7XA
P1705 and No Start
Shifts 1st to Neutral, Neutrals in 2nd, Soft 3-4 Shift, Code
P1750
Mini-Cooper S
Valve Body Interchange
A960
Code P0761
DTC P0751
U140E/F
Late 1-2 Shift
Erratic 1-2 and 2-3
No or Delayed 3rd/Reverse
U660
Case Damage
RE0F09A (CVT)
Codes P0705, P0745 and P0845
RE5R05A
Downshift Clunk
Lineartronic CVT
Introduction
Sensors and Switches
Inhibitor Switch Testing
Fluid Temperature Sensor Testing
Secondary Pressure Switch Testing
Pulley Operation
Transfer Clutch
Reverse Clutch
Forward Clutch
Valve Body and Case
Pulleys
Input Clutch and Pump
Solenoid Identification
Solenoid Function
Valve Body

6/22/15 8:47 AM

POWER INDUSTRY NEWS

POWERTRAIN INDUSTRY NEWS


Raybestos Powertrain
Revs Up Race To Win
Reward Program

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

customers and is void where prohibited


by law. No purchase is necessary to
participate.

Sonnax Recognized for


Outstanding Service

Raybestos Powertrain is pleased


to announce their new Race To
Win customer reward program. The
program, available online at www.
RaceToWin.RaybestosPowertrain.
com, gives Raybestos Powertrains
U.S. customers in automotive
transmission and general repair shops
the opportunity to earn rewards based
on their purchases of Raybestos friction
and steel modules.
Customer rewards range from
fishing gear and grills to coolers and
hammocks. Race To Win participants
will also be eligible for drawings for
free trips to this years Powertrain Expo
in Las Vegas and the Trans Am Series
2015 season finale race in Daytona
Beach.
Our customers count on us for
premium quality friction and steel
products, and we want to celebrate that
loyalty with rewards and prizes, said
Raybestos Powertrain Vice President
Reinhard Brinkmeier. Participation is
easy: just log on to our Race To Win
web site and register the proof-ofpurchase codes youll find in Raybestos
Powertrain friction and steel modules.
According to Brinkmeier, the
companys new Raybestos HT friction
modules will contain two proofs of
purchase, making these modules doubly
valuable to Race To Win participants.
The new Race To Win program
offers several ways to win, including
earned rewards, instant rewards and
prize drawings. Learn more at www.
RaceToWin.RaybestosPowertrain.com.
The Raybestos Powertrain Race To
Win program is offered only to U.S.
54

1PINS 715.indd 54

Sonnax Director of Strategic Accounts Seth


Baldasaro (left) and Account Specialist
Joan Kainz (right), accept Jaspers Supplier
Service Award ELMO trophy from Jasper
Representative Jason Ng.

Sonnax was one of 13 companies


honored with the 2014 Jasper Engines
& Transmissions Supplier Service
Award at the annual Jasper Supplier
Meeting held May 21 in Jasper, IN.
Each of the companies invited to
attend this event received special
recognition as Key Suppliers, but only
a small number present also received
the ELMO trophy.
The Supplier Award is presented
to select Jasper vendor partners for
outstanding support in three categories:
growth, service and quality. The
winners were established by joint
nominating efforts between Jasper
sourcing and buyers in key areas
including supplier scorecard results,
can-do attitude, sense of urgency,
timely responses, problem resolution
and high level of expertise.
Its an honor for Sonnax to be
recognized by an industry-leading
organization like Jasper Engines and
Transmissions, said Seth Baldasaro,
Sonnax director of strategic accounts.
The award for outstanding service
is recognition of the team effort
involving all departments to ensure our
customers receive a quality product
delivered on time and backed by the
employee-owners at Sonnax.
For more, visit Sonnax on line at
www.sonnax.com.

H&A Transmissions
Names Leo Martines
VP of Operations

H&A Transmissions
is proud to introduce its
new VP of Operations,
Leo Martinez. Leo
brings 38 years of
experience in the
transmission industry.
He started from the ground up,
became a builder and eventually
owned and operated his own successful
business for 13 years. As a certified
teacher, Leo was an instructor at UTI
covering transmission hydraulics,
principals of operation, power flow,
theory, and torque converters.
His knowledge and commitment to
building a quality product fits right in
with the values and standards of H&A
Transmissions. Were happy to have
him onboard in our continuing effort to
produce the best remanufactured Honda
and Acura transmissions on the market.
For more information on H&A
Transmission, Americas premier
Honda transmission remanufacturer,
visit www.hnatrans.com, www.
gearspeed.com, or call, toll free 866428-7267.

Cottman Man Blog


Makes List of 50 Best
Auto Mechanics Blogs

The Cottman Man blog, a new blog


about transmission and general car care
and service, has been named one of
the Top 50 Automotive and Mechanics
Blogs in a list compiled by Direct
Capital, a CIT company.
The Cottman Man blog www.
TheCottmanManBlog.com went live
only five months ago, with information
on car care, servicing tips, and profiles
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:05 AM

of local Cottman Transmission and


Total Auto Care franchisees.
There is a lot you can learn
from mechanics, automotive repair
professionals, and car lovers, notes
Direct Capital. Some of these people
have taken their work and automotive
interests to the blogging world, and
they have a wealth of expertise,
experience, and stories to share.
They went on to say, these blogs
are full of know-how to help you in
your quest to keep your automobiles in
tip-top shape.
The listing for The Cottman
Man Blog includes three posts they
especially like:
My Cars Still Under Warranty; Do
I Need to Have It Serviced at the
Dealer?
But Heres What It Says on the
Internet!
My Car Didnt Start This Morning;
Should I Replace the Battery?
We are extremely pleased and
proud that our blog has been selected
for this prestigious Top 50 list, said
Derik Beck, VP of digital marketing at
Cottman Transmission and Total Auto
Care.
Visit www.Cottman.com and
www.TheCottmanManBlog.com to
learn more,

DBB Acquisition LLC


acquires Dura-Bond
Bearing Company

DBB Acquisition LLC announced


today that it has completed the
acquisition of Dura-Bond Bearing
Company, a division of privately held
Melling Engine Parts. Dura-Bond
is a manufacturer of cam bearings,
bushings, valve seats and hardware
for engine and transmission rebuilding
since 1947. The company is based
in Carson City, Nevada. Terms of the
transaction were not disclosed.
Two managers Charles J
Barnett, president, and Robert
McBroom, COO have partnered
with The Brynavon Group, Inc. to
acquire the company.Brynavon is a
private investment firm that specializes
in partnering with management teams
to acquire the company they work
for. Bynavon owned Dura-Bond for
14 years prior to it being acquired
by Melling.
GEARS July 2015

1PINS 715.indd 55

The Melling family made a


decision to focus our resources into the
Melling branded aftermarket product
lines and OE pump operations, says
CEO Mark Melling. We are thrilled
that the opportunity for management
to participate in the ownership of
Dura-Bond surfaced. We wish the
entire DB team nothing but success.
This transaction continues the
strategic focus in our core products
within the engine and transmission
rebuilding marketplace for the last 68
years as an independent entity", said
Charles Barnett, president and owner
of the company. The Dura-Bond
name has strong brand recognition. We
look to continue to acquire additional
product lines to grow our business.
For more, visit Melling on line at
www.melling.com.

Precision Introduces
New Kits for JF015E

Precision International is pleased


to introduce overhaul, banner, and
master kits for the JF015E front wheel
drive CVT. These units appear in a
wide variety of vehicles, including
Chevrolet, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Suzuki,
and others.
Here are the kit numbers for these
units:
Overhaul Kit: K73900KX-MD

(without pistons)

K73900K-MD

(with pistons)
Banner Kit: K7300KXW/O

(without pistons)

K7300KW/O

(with pistons)
Master Kit: K7300KX

(without pistons)

K7300K

(with pistons)
For more, visit Precision on line at
www.transmissionkits.com.

ATI Introduces New


T400 Output Shafts

ATI is proud to introduce several


new output shafts to improve the
durability of your T400 transmission.
ATIs new heavy duty 300M
output shafts feature an extended
bearing surface and are gun drilled
to save weight, with no governor or
speedometer support.
This new part is a must-have
for your T400 when high horsepower
meets heavy weight, or the rear gear
is numerically low. With todays
technology, creating over 1000 rear
wheel HP in your 4000-lb streetcar
isnt uncommon. Combine that with a
30 tire and a 3.54 gear and you have
exponentially increased load.
Now ATI offers a strong affordable
option that is easily installed, available
outright or as an upgrade option in your
next ATI T400 transmission.
The new output shafts are available
in three lengths: Standard 9 T400
length (406026) for 4 tailhousings,
8.5 for special Powerglide-length
tailhousings (406026P), and 6 for 4x4
use with no tailhousing (406026S).
For sales or technical information,
email tech@atiracing.comor call toll
free at 1-866-203-5094.

New Reference Guide from


Transmission Exchange Co.

Transmission Exchange Co.


is pleased to introduce the latest
quick reference guide for standard
transmission and transfer case kits,
with over 550 kits listed.
The typical transmission kit will
contain gaskets, bearings, seals,
and small parts, with synchro rings
optional. The typical transfer case kit
will contain gaskets, bearings, seals,
and small parts, with chain optional.
For more, contact Transmission
Exchange Co. at 800-776-1191 or on
line attransmissionsuperstore.com.
55

6/22/15 8:05 AM

POWER INDUSTRY NEWS

AAM Control Units Available


for 7.25 Front Axle

American Axle & Manufacturing


(AAM), a leading manufacturer of axle
components, driveshaft components
and repair kits for OE vehicles, has
announced the availability of an
authentic OE disconnect control
unit for the 7.25 front axle 20022009 Chevy Trailblazer and GMC
Envoy SUVs.
The unit is available in two
versions: one with the actuator (AAM
P/N 74080002A) and one without
(AAM P/N 74080002B).
AAM also packages the disconnect
unit in a shifter kit (AAM P/N
7480002) that includes the actuator, so
all components are available for ease of
installation. The components in these
kits directly replace the original unit.
In addition to the actuator, the
kit contains the return spring, shifter
fork, tube bolt, thrust washer, shifter
sleeve, I/O shaft assembly, shifter
housing, differential carrier thrust
washer, differential shifter seal, carrier
connector, differential shifter spring,
and differential thrust washer. All
components have been produced from
the original design to meet the OE
specifications.
AAM parts are the same OEM
production parts many shops have
come to demand when installing
replacement parts. AAM parts fit right,
install right and perform right the
first time.
For more information and to
find a local distributor, visit www.
demandaam.com, call 313-758-4176,
or email info@aam.com.

of the remanufacturing industrys most


coveted honor is Sren Toft-Jensen,
founder and owner of Denmark-based
Borg Automotive, Europes largest
independent remanufacturing company.
Sren Toft-Jensen receives the
award for outstanding entrepreneurship
the field of remanufacturing over
close to 40 years, during which he has
transformed a modest electrical repair
shop in a small town in Denmark to a
European heavyweight with around 900
employees and significant operations in
the UK, Poland, and Belgium.
Through constant commitment to
quality and a clear vision, Sren ToftJensen has built a world-class company
which has contributed significantly
to the reputation of automotive
remanufacturing and serves as
inspiration for remanufacturers across
Europe, said William Schwarck,
editor-in-chief, ReMaTecNews, and
chairman of the award jury. Behind
the outwardly modest faade, Sren
Toft Jensen has proved to be a
genuinely entrepreneurial leader anda
worthy winner of ReMaTecNews
Remanufacturer of the Year award.
The award ceremony took place
on Sunday, June 14, during the
opening reception of the ReMatec2015
remanufacturing show in Amsterdam,
The Netherlands. The show, the
worlds largest of its type, runs from
June 14 to June 16 at the Amsterdam
RAI Convention Centre.
Instituted
in
2005,
the
Remanufacturer of the Year award
honours an individual or business
that has served the automotive
remanufacturing industry with
distinction.

embody the brands core values of


heritage, craftsmanship, and passion.
Short, high-energy videos will each
showcase a different builder. Viewers
will hear their unique stories, plus see
the high-performance works of art that
earn these craftsmen a place among this
elite group. Vehicles showcased will
include cars, trucks, and motorcycles.
California native Heath Pinter will
appear first in the series. Pinter is a
professional BMX rider, X Games
champion and classic car builder. He
also built Red Kaps featured vehicle
at the 2014 SEMA show, a 1950
3-window Chevy truck.
Pinters distinctive build style and
relentless passion for improving his
craft has made him a natural fit to be
featured in the series.
His latest project is a 1928 Roadster.
The finished build will be publicly
unveiled in October when its entered
into the Race of Gentlemen, a one-ofa-kind event held on the beaches of the
Jersey shore. Previous builds include
a 1965 Lincoln Continental, 1954
Shoebox Ford, 1955 Buick Special,
1931 Ford Model A, and 1950 Chevy
Truck.
Red Kap will continue to add
more Craftsmen to this program in the
months ahead. Each will be chosen
based on authentic character, style
and commitment to the automotive
industry.
Visitwww.redkapautomotive.com/
Distributorsfor a complete list of Red
Kap distributors.

Oil Eater Flex Line


Parts Washers Offer
Variety of Features

Red Kap Signs Heath Pinter


to The Craftsmen

ReMaTecNews Names
Remanufacturer
of the Year 2015

ReMaTecNews, the international


news magazine for the automotive and
heavy duty remanufacturing industries,
has announced its Remanufacturer of
the Year award for 2015. The winner
56

1PINS 715.indd 56

Red Kap, the worlds largest


manufacturer of automotive workwear,
is launchingThe Craftsmen, a video
series profiling custom builders who

Oil Eater Flex Line parts washers


are ready-to-use units with three tiers
of features.
These water-based systems have
GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:05 AM

a modular design, interchangeable


features, and add-on options. Each
includes six gallons of eco-friendly Oil
Eater Original cleaner/degreaser.
The basic unit has a 440 lb.
working tray, flow-through brush with
adjustable fluid control, adjustable
gooseneck spigot, skimmer pads,
stainless steel drain screen, 26-gallon
soaking capacity, and thermally
protected 350 gph pump.
The premium model has all of the
basic models features plus a preset
fluid heater, low-fluid-level protection
switch and secondary, and 50-micron
fluid filtration.
The professional model adds
a high-impact HDPE lid, a pump
protector drain magnet, a 20-piece
cleaning brush kit, and a 10-watt,
moisture-resistant LED worklight.
Add-on options include a washable,
reusable, stainless steel filter, a drain
magnet, and a stainless steel parts
basket.
The height of the work deck reduces
worker fatique caused by bending over.
For further information, visit www.
oileater.com or call 800-528-0334.

Alto Introduces
68RFE PowerPacks

New Kits from TransTec

Kit 2664 for Honda MFHA and MWWA CVTs

Kit 2669 for Toyota P510 EVT

TransTec is pleased to introduce


two new kits:
Kit 2669 fits the Toyota P510 EVT,
in years from 2011-up
Kit 2664 fits Honda MFHA and
MWWA CVTs, in years 2000 to 2013.
Both kits are in stock and available
for immediate delivery.
For more, visit TransTec on line at
www.TransTec.com.

Edward H. Orzetti
Appointed CEO of Transtar
Holding Company

P/N 128757A

P/N 128758A

Alto Products Corp now offers


PowerPacks for the Dodge 68RFE 2C
and 4C clutch packs. Alto P/N 128758A
(4th clutch) and P/N 128757A (2nd
clutch) are manufactured with Altos
new G3 diesel performance friction
material.
These new PowerPacks are in stock
and available for immediate delivery.
For more information on these
clutches and other Alto products, visit
them on line at www.altousa.com.
GEARS July 2015

1PINS 715.indd 57

T r a n s t a r
Holding Company,
an integrated portfolio of companies
that provides worldclass customer
service, distribution,
manufacturing and
remanufacturing of
aftermarket automotive products, today
announced that Edward H. Orzetti has
been appointed CEO of the company.
He succeeds Tim Bowes, who has
transitioned from the organization.
E d s
global
background
and track record for operational
excellence, market success and
productive organizational alignment
in both manufacturing and distribution
businesses will help Transtar and its
portfolio of businesses accelerate
their core growth, said Robert

Keegan, Executive Chairman of


Transtar Holding Companys Board of
Directors.
It is a privilege to join Transtar,
the leader in the transmission parts
industry, and I look forward to
building on the great foundation and
strong reputation that the Companys
employees have established, stated
Orzetti. I know this entire team is
committed to winning, and together we
have tremendous opportunity to drive
dynamic growth in all of Transtars
portfolio companies.
Orzetti previously served as
President and CEO of Keystone
Automotive Operations, a $700 million
wholesale distributor and marketer
of aftermarket automotive parts and
accessories. During his eight-year
tenure at Keystone Automotive,
where he was a member of the Board
of Directors, Orzetti led a team that
achieved excellent sales growth and
significantly improved company
efficiency.
While at Keystone
Automotive, he also served on the
Board of Directors of the Specialty
Equipment Market Association
(SEMA).
Prior to Keystone, Orzetti was the
President of the Global Lab Business at
VWR International, a $3 billion global
distributor of laboratory supplies, and
previously was President of a $400
million global manufacturing division
of Textron. He also held senior
leadership roles with General Electric.
Orzetti holds a bachelors degree
in mechanical engineering from the
United States Military Academy at
West Point, a masters degree in
administration from Central Michigan
University and a masters degree in
management from the Sloan School
of Management at the Massachusetts
Institute of Technology.
On behalf of the Board, I want
to thank Tim Bowes for the strong
business foundation he established at
Transtar, as well as for his leadership
during our recent acquisition and
integration of ETX, added Keegan.

57

6/22/15 8:05 AM

SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS

GEARS Shopper advertising costs $325.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed
elsewhere in the magazine and are charged at comparable rates. Check or money order must accompany all orders.
For information on Shopper advertising in GEARS, contact GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, or call
(805) 604-2000.

ERIKSSON INDUSTRIES
Division of Wentworth Engineering

1-800-388-4418
Authorized

Parts Distributor

Reman Trans 6HP - 5HP - 4HP


BMW - Audi - Jaguar - Range Rover
Valve Bodies & Torque Converters

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

1-800-388-4418
Fax: (860) 395-0047

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

COMPUTERS

ECM TCM PCM BCM


Foreign & Domestic

Computer Module Specialist

Off Vehicle Flash Programming

Engine Control Module (ECM)


Transmission Control Module (TCM)

A/C PARTS
A/C COMPRESSORS A/C Parts Specialist

Accept Major Credit Cards

One Year Warranty

AUTOCOMP

Technologies, Inc.

8515 North Freeway, Houston, TX 77037

888-217-4072

CASH for

Solenoid CORES
Aisin AW 5- & 6-Speed
Chrysler 45RFE/545RFE/68RFE
(early & late) & 62TE
*Ford 5R55N/W/S & E4OD/4R100
Honda 5-Speed Dual Linear

Visit www.sonnax.com
to start a core return online, or call
(800) 843-2600, Ext. 379
*OE & Remanufactured

58

1shoppers 715.indd 58

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:13 AM

Equipment Manufacturing Corp.

BMW Mercedes-Benz Audi

$4,995.00

Remanufactured to
Perfection

In Stock

Hundreds of Transmissions in-stock.


Immediate installation available.
2 year unlimited warranty.
Dyno-tested.

Remanufactured torque converter included.

Toll free 800 - 372 - TRANS


1331 Rollins Road Burlingame, CA 94010
tel 650 - 348 - 3990
fax 650 - 348 - 3019

888-833-9000

www.equipmentmanufacturing.com

QUALITY. KNOWLEDGE. SERVICE.

Light duty manual


transmission parts for both
foreign and domestic
Transfer case component parts
Fully dyno tested
remanufactured transmissions
and transfer cases
Superior Technical Knowledge
Give us a call TODAY!

1-855-972-2230

8933 NE Marx Dr Ste A1 Portland, OR 97220-1472

Need Hard
Parts?

Transmissions
by WesTside

We specialize in rebuilt ZF
Transmissions (5HP24 / 6HP26 /
6HP28) for Range Rover 2002-2010!

Just Ask!
Rebuilt valve bodies available
Comes with ONE-YEAR unlimited mile warranty
TWO-YEAR warranty available
All transmission include torque converter

1.877.888.5160

(310) 231-8962

www.westsidetransmission.com

GEARS July 2015


gcor-just-ask-2014-2.25x3-shopper.indd 1
1shoppers 715.indd 59

59
12/1/13 7:18 PM
6/22/15 8:14 AM

SHOPPER CLASSIFIED ADS

GEARS Shopper advertising costs $325.00 for a one time insertion ad, (2 1/4 X 3) 2.25 X 3. Larger ads can be placed
elsewhere in the magazine and are charged at comparable rates. Check or money order must accompany all orders.
For information on Shopper advertising in GEARS, contact GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030, or call
(805) 604-2000.

WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED

FOREIGN & DOMESTIC


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

CALL

BRIAN OR ALBERT

866-571-GEAR
4 3 2 7

* Complete Remanufactured*
*Individually Tested*
*SONNAX Updates*
* 1 YR Warranty*
*Tech Support*
*Family Owned & Operated*
*Nationwide
Shipping*
*N
NOW OFFERING
*SONNAX Updated Pumps*

(877) 337 - 4681


www.reamman.com

NEED QUALITY
CONVERTERS?
Custom Built to
Your Trucks Specifications!
DODGE CUMMINS
Trans Pans, Billet Flex Plates,
Torque Converters & Valve Bodies.
Triple Disc Torque Converters have
Limited Lifetime Warranty!
Allison Torque Converters and
Trans Pans Also Available!
Dyno Tested & Developed on Our In-House
2400 lb. ft. Chassis & 500 HP Trans Dynos

563-778-2719

To view our equipment go to www.goerend.com


Over 35 Years in the Transmission Business

Overhaul System!

Call for a free catalog


877-298-5003
www.atiracing.com
6747 Whitestone Road Baltimore, MD 21207

Space For Sale!

We are the premier wholesale


provider of new and remanufactured
manual transmissions,
transfer cases, differentials,and all
related components.
622 West 1st Street
Zumbrota, MN 55992
1-800-658-2537
Multiple Distribution Locations

60

1shoppers 715.indd 60

HARD PARTS FOR


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

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

$325
www.gearsmagazine.com

805-604-2023

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:14 AM

Transfer Case Assemblies


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

GREEN BAY, WI

800-242-2844

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

SPRINTER Transmissions
Remanufactured
Sprinter
722.6 Transmissions

Updated with latest Sonnax


performance parts
3-year/100,000-mile warranty

866-464-1871

Why buy foreign,


When you can buy
American Quality
Tools and parts
washers
At an
Unbeatable Price!
Visit our website for more information,
or the links below for our Parts Washers:
www.partscrubber.info www.partscrubberx.info
www.midipro.info
www.transmissionpartswashers.info

www.sprintertransmission.net

Best!
Expect the

Quality
Remanufactured
Torque Converters

Distributorships Available
Visit our website:

www.cvcconverters.com
800.727.4461

GEARS July 2015

1shoppers 715.indd 61

61

6/22/15 8:14 AM

SHOPPER CLASSIFIED

July 2015

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).

GEARS

FOR THE TRANSMISSION REBUILDING INDUSTRY

HARD PARTS
& CORES
DALLAS, TX

For all makes & models,


foreign and domestic

SAME DAY SHIPPING


800-443-8135
jptransmission.com
HELP WANTED: Veteran R&R
and diagnostic technician needed
for a busy well established
transmission shop in Yukon,
Oklahoma, a great town just
outside Oklahoma City. Motivation
and experience needed, with own
tools. Mon Fri 8:00 a.m. to
5:00 p.m. with salary. Please
contact Brian at (405) 350-6600.
References will be required.

ATRA Mbr
HELP
WANTED:
Certified
Transmission is looking for
a Parts manager for our large
internal parts dept. at the Omaha,
Nebraska plant. Must have
experience and a leader that has
great people skills to manage
6-10 people. Currently we pull
5000 parts a day Hours M/F 7.30
to 6.00 pm. Pre employment
drug testing. Send resume
pfink@certifiedtransmission.com.

ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: Busy Western
Colorado transmission shop
is looking for an experienced,
professional diagnostic technician
to join our team.
10 years
minimum transmission experience
preferred. Must be well versed
in computer diagnostics and
62

1classfd715.indd 62

electronics. Competitive pay,


5-day workweek. E-mail resume to
bakerstransmission@gmail.com,
Bakers Transmission Service,
LLC www.bakerstransmission.
com (970)-245-6640. ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED:Transmission
Installer Needed (or Rebuilder/
Installer) for well established
& busy shop in Rochester,
NY. Candidates must be
experienced & have own tools.
5 day work week. Call (585) 4148777 or email atranswartz@aol.
com for consideration.

ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: Now Hiring Transmission Rebuilder with 7
plus years recent experience is
needed for a full time position in
Colorado Springs. We are looking
for a professional builder that is
detailed oriented and is willing
to follow company guidelines
to insure business standards.
Hours Monday through Friday.
Will help relocate. Full benefits
available to qualified technician.
Please send resume, references,
and salary requirements to:
hiringmanager1963@gmail.com.
ATRA Mbr

THIS COULD BE
YOUR AD!
call (805) 604-2000
and find out how!
HELP WANTED: Looking for a
motivated, punctual mechanic
and or transmission rebuilder.
Must be available to work Monday
- Friday 8am - 5pm, have own
hand tools, speak English and
most importantly follow directions.
Preferred experience removing
and installing transmissions front
and rear wheel drive. Not required
but preferred! Reading and
comprehension necessary. Pay
is good, weekends and holidays
off. Great opportunity for the right
person with a positive attitude
and strong work ethic. Call or
text Steve at 805-896-2939 or
trans58.sp@gmail.com.

ATRA Mbr
HELP WANTED: Automatic
Transmission installer or builder
for highly professional shop in
Waynesville, N.C., gateway to
the Great Smokies. Experienced
in front and rear wheel drive
vehicles. Great hunting, fishing,
hiking, motorcycle riding and
the list goes on. If you want an
opportunity to live and work in
a gorgeous setting away from
the rat race then this could be
the opportunity you are looking
for.Five day work week. Clean,
professional shop and a family like
atmosphere.Call (828) 456-5753
Mon - Fri. 8:00 am to 5:00 pm or
email us at: advancedtransmis@
ATRA Mbr
bellsouth.net.

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:20 AM

Don't Miss the ATRA SEMINAR Near You!

2015 ATRA TECHNICAL SEMINARS


Aug 8 - Albuquerque, NM

Aug 15 - Portland, OR

Aug 22 - Atlanta, GA

Aug 29 - Anaheim, CA

Sept 12 - Billings, MT

Sept 19 - Chicago, IL

Sept 26 - Newark, NJ

Nov 7 - Baltimore, MD

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

ATRA'S POWERTRAIN EXPO 2015 Oct 29- Nov 1, 2015

HELP
WANTED:
TRANSMISSION
TEST
TECHNICIAN - Experienced testing all types of
automatic transmissions using Superflow and other
dyno test machines. Must have good computer skills,
good work history and good communication skills.
Pay D.O.E. Benefits package. PORTLAND TORQUE
PRODUCTS, Portland, Oregon. (800) 640-0970 or
dave@portlandtorque.com. ATRA Mbr

HELP WANTED: NATIONAL EMPLOYMENT


HEADQUARTERS FOR THE TRANSMISSION
INDUSTRY.
Fast, Easy and Free service to
industry employees! Low cost and an easy way to
recruit nationwide for shop owners! Serving the
transmission industry since 1997. Visit our website at:
www.transteam.com or call us toll free at:
(888) 859-0994.

Subscribe Today!
Grab Your GEARS Now!

Name

X
I want my very own subscription
to the next 9 issues of GEARS.

_____________________________________ Phone _______________________________

Address______________________________ City ________________ State ______ Zip __________


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

GEARS July 2015

1classfd715.indd 63

63

6/22/15 8:20 AM

ADVERTISERS
Name

Page

Name

Page

ATRA BookStore.............................................................................47
members.atra.com

Precision European Inc........................................................ 63, rider


www.PEIus.com

ATRA Membership..........................................................................45
members.atra.com

Precision International.....................................................................15
www.transmissionkits.com

ATRA Seminars..........................................................................52,53
members.atra.com

Raybestos Powertrain.......................................................................3
www.raybestospowertrain.com

ATRA Webinars...............................................................................31
members.atra.com

Rostra Precision Controls Inc..........................................................43


www.rostratransmission.com

ATRA Powertrain Expo....................................................................39


ATRA Powertrain Expo

Seal Aftermarket Products..............................................................25


www.sealaftermarketproducts.com

Dura-Bond Bearing Company.........................................................23


www.mellingdurabond.com

Slauson Transmission Parts............................................................29


www.slauson.com

ETE Reman.......................................................................................7
www.etereman.com

Sonnax Industries.......................................................................... IFC


www.sonnax.com

EVT Parts.................................................................................... OBC


www.evtparts.com

Superior Transmission Parts...........................................................27


www.superior-transmission.com

GearSpeed......................................................................................35
www.gearspeedpartsstore.com

Sussex Auto Parts Ltd.....................................................................43


www.sussexautos.co.uk

General Motors Customer Care and Aftersales.........................40,41


www.goodwrench.com

Transmission Specialties.................................................................33
www.transmission-specialties.com

Jasper Engines & Transmissions..................................................IBC


www.jasperengines.com

Transtar Industries, Inc....................................................................21


www.transtar1.com

Life Automotive Products Inc...........................................................17


www.smartblend.com

TransTec By CORTECO.................................................................. 11
www.transtec.com

Mid States Transmission Parts........................................................36


mstp.net

Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts, Inc.......................................9


www.wittrans.com

2015

North American Powertrain Components........................................37


www.napcltd.ca

64

listo715.indd 64

ATRA Supplier Members


Reserve your free table top display for the
ATRA 2015 technical seminar series today!
Call (805) 604-2018

See ATRA Seminar Schedule information at:


members.atra.com

GEARS July 2015

6/22/15 8:10 AM

Jasper July2015.indd 1

6/22/15 8:44 AM

SPECIALS

A340 O/D Planet


Set Planet
V6 #340-225A
$90
A340 O/D
Set V6 $125
V8 #340-225
$125
V8 $175
EVT chgs414.indd 2

4/1/14 9:44 AM

Sharpen Your Skills & Your Business Plan....

POWERTRAIN EXPO 2015


hosted by

October 29 - November 1

Rio Hotel & Casino


Las Vegas, NV

powertrainexpo.com
Like us on Facebook for the
latest news and updates!

Trade Show co-hosted with

Thursday, October 29
The absolute best management training
in the industry - guaranteed.
Leadership

Marketing

Sales

Blending our top notch industry trainers with world class leaders in marketing, sales
and leadership is what is in store for those attending our management track this year.
Nowhere on the planet will you be able to access this level of information under one
roof in such a short period of time. If you are serious about taking your company to the
next level of success, then you need to be with us for our management sessions!

Guaranteed to exceed your expectations!

Management

We are so confident in this training line up that if for any reason you feel that the
information shared during the entire four day track did not exceed your expectations,
we will refund your entire staffs management registration.

Attracting Tomorrows Work Force


3:00pm - 4:15pm

Generations

Presented by Bill Haas


Millennials dont think like Baby Boomers
or GenXers. We know this but does it show
up in how you run your business and how
you communicate with your people? Let Bill
Haas show you specifically what to do to get
everyone on board to grow your business
and please your customers.

4:30pm - 6:00pm

Whats Working

Presented by Dennis Madden and Rodger


Bland, ATRA
A current need
throughout the
transmission industry
is finding new talent,
builders who will be our
rocks for today and
tomorrow. This growing
need must bring us
together in an effort
to attract, train and
grow our workforce for
tomorrow. We need to
make the transmission
business as or more
appealing than the
other options that lure people away from
us before we even get a chance to connect
with them. We are looking for a few good
men and women and we need to find them
even before they make their career choices.
In this session, we feature a panel of college
students currently enrolled in an automotive
program. Find out what tomorrows
technicians are looking for in an automotive
career and how you can attract the brightest
newcomers to our industry.

Bill Haas

ATRA Powertrain Expo

Friday, October 30
Value Driven Sales and Marketing
8:00am - 9:15am

Marketing Matters

Presented by Alex Goldfayn


Alex regularly helps people grow their business by 20% or more by showing
them how to change their marketing. He believes that people already show
you the ways to do more business with them when you learn how to listen
to what theyre saying. His insights are fascinating and so logical! There are
amazingly simple ways to do what we do even better without incurring extra
costs.

Sell Value, Not Transmissions

Presented by Don Hutson


A favorite with ATRA, sales expert Don Hutson shows how to sell value without dropping
price and how to negotiate in ways that retain your customers loyalty. His newest book
Selling Value is already climbing the bestseller lists. Come and get new insights from this
ATRA friend.

Sell Value,
Not Transmissions

powertrainexpo.com

Management

9:30am - 12:00pm

Don Hutson

Saturday, October 31
Leadership At All Levels
9:00am - 10:15am

10:30am - 12:00pm

Presented by Jim Cathcart


Youve read Jims articles in GEARS, seen
him on the ATRA stage and met him in the
hallways. He has become a great friend
to our industry and a Strategic Advisor
for ATRA. Jim Cathcart is one of the most
connected people we know. He is friends
with Larry Winget, Mike Rayburn, Mark
Sanborn, Don Hutson and hundreds more
of the top thought leaders in business
worldwide. In this session Jim will be sharing
insights into how you can easily acquire the
few vital traits that will attract your goals
to you. Masters arent just people who are
highly-skilled, they are also people who think
more deeply and powerfully about what
they do and why. Take a look at your world
through new eyes with our friend Jim
Cathcart.

Presented by Mark Sanborn


One of the worlds leading speakers and
authors, Mark Sanborn teaches how to
change your day to day actions so as to
improve: Relationships, Outcomes and
Improvements. Youll like and admire Mark
of course, but more importantly you will
be moved and improved by his message.
Just one of his proven ideas may transform
your relationships with your team and your
customers. Come prepared to be impacted
by Mark.

Management

Increase Your Success


Velocity

Leadership Everyone
Needs

The Power of
Leadership

Increase Your Success


Velocity
4

Jim Cathcart

Bill Haas

Mark Sanborn

Sunday, November 1
Wrap Up Sunday
8:00am - 9:00am

Food For Thought

9:00am - 12:00pm

Life Happens

Presented by Maylan Newton


Life sneaks up on you
when youre least
expecting. Our popular
friend Maylan Newton
got blind-sided recently
and had a whole new
look at what matters and
what we can do about it.
Learn from this ATRA industry insider about
how you can discover new ways and new
solutions to problems that you someday
may have. Its always fun to be with Maylan.
This time it will also be inspiring, we
guarantee it.

powertrainexpo.com

Management

Presented by Scott Johnson


Join Scott Johnson
and the Profitboost
team for breakfast and
compelling conversation
as we kick off our Wrap
Up Sunday schedule.
Scott will share his vast
knowledge and insights
on our industry and lead the discussion
on how we can all be better prepared for
the challenges ahead. Food for Thought is
an open conversation for all, well provide
the food; you provide your thoughts- bon
apptit

Thursday, October 29
8:00am - 10:00am

3:00pm - 4:00pm

Technical

The 948TE

Presented by Bill Brayton, ATRA


This unit is going to be
very popular and we need
to know what to look
for when it gets to our
shops. This informative
presentation will include
teardown information
and a breakdown of the
special tools needed to get this unit apart.
Also included will be information on how
the dog clutches work on this unit. This is a
feature that we have never seen in automatic
transmissions and we are looking forward to
sharing the information. We will include valve
body breakdown as well as key areas that
need close inspection.

10:00am - 12:00pm

Mass Air Flow Sensor


Tips You Should Know

Presented by Dan Marinucci, Communique


A failing Mass Air Flow
(MAF) sensor hampers
engine performance and
may affect transmission
operation too. In this
class, Dan discusses the
pros and cons of testing
analog MAF sensors with a
voltmeter, scan tool and oscilloscope.

Inside & Out of the


U660...Solving the
Mysteries

Presented by Mike Brown, ATRA


Mystery of the rotating
bearing, Shift feel
problems, TCC shudder
or no lock up and much
more.

4:00pm - 6:00pm

Engine Diagnostics:
Part 1

Presented by Scott Shotton, The


Driveability Guys
Engine issues can
sometimes cause
transmission shifting
issues or also be mistaken
for transmission issues.
Part 1 of this course will
take a look at engine
breathing. Items such as
MAF sensors, exhaust restrictions, no code
issues and more will be covered. The goal
will be to have a solid repeatable diagnostic
approach to identify these issues before
moving on to transmission diagnostics.

1:30pm - 3:00pm

Scoping Transmissions
2015

Presented by Sean Boyle, Southern Illinois


College
This class will dive straight
into testing transmission
solenoids and sensors on
the transmissions youre
working on today. Using
the latest scopes on the
market to verify these
electrical faults.

Opening Remarks by ATRA


Tech Director, Lance Wiggins!

Friday, October 30
7:30am - 9:00am

Diagnostic & Strategy for Repairs, Failures & Fixes


of ZF Transmissions
Presented by Dirk Fuchs, ZF
The latest and most common problems encountered in the field are discussed during this
training by ZFs Technical Trainer. Hear about diagnosing a failure and finding a fix, giving you
everything you need to know about encountering a ZF transmission in your shop.

9:00am - 10:30am

Tips & Tricks from the Builders Bench

Presented by John Parmenter, Precision International


Covering current diagnosis and repairs in the shop today, scan tool and diagnostic aids and
their relationship to trouble codes.

10:30am - 12:00pm

Presented by Dan Nagy, General Motors


This seminar will focus on showing the technician how to diagnose and reprogram Transmission Electro Hydraulic Control Modules (TEHCMs) which
are located inside all General Motors six speed automatic transmissions.
The instructor will review:
Properly diagnosing the TEHCM
Replacing the TEHCM in rear-wheel drive and front-wheel drive
transmissions
Re-programing the TEHCM using a J2534 Interface Tool and TIS2Web
This seminar will take the fear out of diagnosing and re-programming the TEHCM, making it
even easier to earn customers trust.

Technical

Diagnose & Reprogram Transmission Electro


Hydraulic Control Modules (TEHCMs)

The Latest in ZF
Technology!

Real World Speaker,


Real World Fixes!

. Dirk Fuchs

John Parmenter

Saturday, October 31
8:30am - 10:00am

Technical

GM 6L80/90/45 and
Ford 6R140 Product
Concerns

Presented by Steve Garrett, Sonnax


We will take a look at
several common repair
scenarios for each
transmission as well as
vehicle related issues that
can cause diagnosis and
vehicle service related
issues. The course will
focus on isolating the cause of the concern
as well as implanting the repairs to address
the issues.

10:00am - 11:30am

Chrysler, Looking Into


the Future

Presented by Alan McAvoy, Chrysler Group


LLC
Chrysler 2015-16 latest current service
updates on the Chrysler ZF 948TE /
9HP48 9 speed transmissions and the
Chrysler - ZF 845RE / 8HP45 / 8HP70 /
8HP90 8 speed transmissions.

1:00pm - 2:30pm

Torque Converters
(Unravelling the
Mystery)

Presented by Ed Lee, TCRA


Ed is a Sonnax Technical
Specialist who focuses
on issues of interest
to torque converter
rebuilders. He was the
owner/operator of
Deltrans Inc. transmission
shop for more than 20
years before joining Sonnax full time in
2005. He is a charter member of the TASC
Force (Technical Automotive Specialties
Committee), a group of recognized industry
technical specialists, transmission rebuilders
and Sonnax Industries Inc. technicians.
Ed is the holder of many patents relating
to transmission components. He is a
member of the Torque Converter Rebuilders
Association Board and serves on their
Technical Committee. Ed is the author
of many technical articles in transmission
related publications.

11:30am - 1:00pm

All About the 8 Speeds

Presented by Mike Souza, ATRA


Mike Souza ATRAs senior
research technician
will be covering the
new GM 8L90 8 speed
transmission found in
the 2015 and later model
Corvette as standard
equipment and in some
SUV vehicles. Titled its All About The 8
Speeds. Mike will be covering the principles
of operation as well as the internal
components the make up this new 8
speed to our industry.

A Leader in Chrysler
Factory Training!
Alan McAvoy

48

Sunday, November 1
9:00am - 11:00am

Engine Diagnostics
Part 2

9:00am - 10:30am

Reprogramming to the Fullest

Presented by Keith Clark, ATRA


Reprogramming techniques for all makes and models, what you need to
know if youre programming or planning on reprogramming

Technical

Presented by Eric Ziegler, The Driveability Guys


Part II of this course series covers two areas: Fuel Trim and Ignition systems.
Fuel trims can be used to get a good idea of how an engine is running
and can be used to diagnose a wide variety of driveability issues. Basic
understanding of fuel trim numbers and how they are effected by different
issues will be covered. Ignition system failures can cause issues that range
from misfire to module communication issues. Some modern ignition system
testing techniques will also be covered.

ATRA Thanks Our Sponsors!


powertrainexpo.com

powertrainexpo.com 9

Present

EDUCATING, MOTIVATING AND


EMPOWERING AMERICANS
TO EXPAND SKILLS &
ENTREPRENEURSHIP!

Friday, October 30, 2015


12pm
ATRA Luncheon
sponsored by Raybestos

John Ratzenberger
Producer & Star of the Travel Channels Made In America
Cliff on Cheers
Voice of many Pixar characters
...and much more!

Frequently Asked Questions


Can I register at the door?
Yes. The following are the dates and times for On-Site
Registration:
Thursday, October 29:
7am - 5pm
Friday, October 30:
7am - 5pm
Saturday, October 31:
8am - 5pm

What if I want to attend more than one


seminar in a session?
Audio recordings of both the Technical and Management
seminars will be available to all Complete Conference
attendees after the Expo.

4 Easy Ways to Register


Call: (800) 428-8489 or (805) 604-2000

What are the hotel rates?


Hotel
Rio Hotel & Casino
(888) 746-6955

Room Rate
$119

Cut-off Date
9/27/2015

Does ATRA make hotel reservations or is


it included in the cost of the conference?
All attendees make their own hotel accommodations directly
with the Rio Hotel by calling (888) 746-6955. Mention ATRA
to receive your discount room rate. Room reservations are not
included with your conference registration.

What are the registration cut-off dates


for Expo?
The early registration cut-off date at the discount price is
9/1/15. The cut-off date for all pre-registration is 10/9/15. Any
registrations made after 10/9/15 will need to be done on-site
at the event.

Did you receive my registration? Am I


registered?
Your confirmation will automatically be emailed to you
immediately after your registration is processed. Please
contact ATRA at (800) 428-8489 if you have not received your
confirmation.

Does my guest need to register?


Yes, everyone attending the seminars or trade show must
have an official badge and registration - except children in
strollers. Spouses and children of conference registrants may
be eligible to receive free trade show access. Please call for
details.

Can I change one of my paid registrations


from one person to another?
Yes, you can switch the name on one or more of your
registrations before 10/9/15. Please call (800) 428-8489 with
any changes youd like to make. Any changes needing to be
made after 10/9/15 will need to be done on-site at the event.

powertrainexpo.com

Online: www.powertrainexpo.com
Send Reg
form by fax: (805) 988-6761
ATRA Powertrain Expo Registration
Send Reg 2400 Latigo Ave
form by mail:
Oxnard, CA 93030

Registration Information
Enrollment is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Seating
is limited by room size. Seminars start promptly at their
scheduled time. Arrive early to be sure of good seating, and
to meet with instructors and other seminar attendees.
Recording is not permitted.

Whats Included
Complete Conference: admission to all technical &
management seminars Thursday through Sunday, Friday
Luncheon & Cocktail Reception, coffee breaks, Friday &
Saturday ATRA Trade Show admission, Saturday, Sunday
& Monday Big R/ReMaTec Trade Show admission, Expo
Technical Manual, Technical seminar program CD and
Management worksheet materials. Audio recordings of both
the Technical and Management seminars will be available to all
Complete Conference attendees after the Expo.
Technical or Management Conference: admission to either
the Technical or Management seminars Thursday through
Sunday, Friday Luncheon & Cocktail Reception, coffee breaks,
Friday & Saturday ATRA Trade Show admission, Saturday,
Sunday & Monday Big R/ReMaTec Trade Show admission,
the Expo Technical Manual, Technical seminar program CD or
Management worksheet materials.
Trade Show: admission to the ATRA trade show on Friday
and Saturday. And the Big R / ReMaTec trade show on
Saturday, Sunday & Monday.

Cancellation Policy
All cancellation requests needing to be made after 10/1/15 will
be subject to a $50 cancellation fee.

11

ATRA Exhibitors

(as of 6/16/15)

Adapt-A-Case
Allomatic
Alto Products Corp.
Amsoil Synthetic Lubricants
ATK and Parts, LLC
ATSG/Motor Age
Autoshop Solutions, Inc.
BAAN Powertrain Corp.
BlueReach Automation
Brand One Synthetics
Capital Core Inc.
Chrysler-Mopar
DCM Tech
Cika Automotive Parts Company
Defeo Manufacturing
Endural, LLC
ETE Reman
EVT Parts
Exedy Friction Technics
Ford Motor Company
G-Auto Co., LTD
G-Cor Automotive Corp.
GearSpeed
Genuine GM Parts
GFX Corp.
G-Tec, Inc.
Hayden Automotive
High-Tran Automatic Transmission Co.
Ltd
Hot Flush, LLC
Hydra-Test
Jasper Engines & Transmissions
JDS Worldwide Corp.
KRS International Corp.
Kuhle
Lintex Auto Parts Co., LTD
LUBEGARD, A Stellar Automotive
Group Co.
Shenzhen Meridian Parts Company
North American Powertrain Components
(NAPC)

Visit both show floors


with your Trade Show
Pass!
12

Northland Transmission Inc.


Omega Machine & Tool, Inc.
Performance Products & Machining
(PPM)
Portland Torque Products
Power Pusher-Div. of Nu-Star, Inc.
Precision International
Precision of New Hampton, Inc.
Raybestos Powertrain
Rostra Precision Controls, Inc.
Schaeffler Group USA Inc.
Seal Aftermarket Products
Slauson Transmission Parts
Smart Blend by Life Automotive
Products
Sonnax Industries / Sonnax Road Show
STK Transmission Parts Co., Ltd
SuperFlow Technologies Group
Superior Transmission Parts, Inc.
Sussex Auto Parts, LTD
TCRA Torque Converter Rebuilders
Assoc.
TCS Performance Transmission Products
Tenn-Tex Automotive
TRANSBRITE / Allen Woods &
Associates, Inc.
Transmaxx
Transmission Digest
Transmission Specialties
Transpartner Transmissions Co., LTD
Transtar Industries, Inc.
Transtec by CORTECO
Valeo Service USA
Valve Body Pro
Wesco Automotive, LLC
West Coast Standards
Whatever It Takes Transmission Parts,
Inc.
ZF Services North America

ATRA Powertrain Expo


Exhibit Hall Days
Friday, October 30: 2pm-7pm
Saturday, October 31: 12pm-5pm

ReMaTec Exhibitors
A.I.M.
Atlantic Automotive Enterprises
Autodiagger
Autopulley Truijens
BC Truck Electrical
Beijng Naifu
BPS
Car-Part.com
China Pavilion
Church and Dwight
CoremanNet
Corteco
CRP Automotive
D&V Electronics
D&W Diesel
DC Tricore
Diesel Core
Diesel Parts of America
Dixie Electric
DS USA
Emmetec
Engine Desk
Euro Car Parts
Eurolec
GM of Shanghai L&J Co., Ltd
Goldfarb
Hart Bros
Hastings Manufacturing
HC Cargo
Hebei Changli
Huichang Company
International Auto Trading
Jada USA
JM Interpart
Kardes Elektrik
KEBA
Kinergo
K-Wilson
Lester Catalog
Level Seven
Litens Aftermarket

Over 150
companies
across 14
countries!

(Provisional List
as of
6/17/2015)

lR Miller
Melett
Meridian Auto Parts
Metro Auto Industrial
Ningbo GP Turbocharger Co., Ltd
O.R.P.A.V
Paul Automobiles
Phoenix Automotive Cores
PINO Import + Export
Pollution Control
Pos Service Holland
RAS
Rebuild Clutch
Recycler Core Company
Regitar USA
Romaine Electric
Sacer Remanufacturing Solutions
Searus Enterprise - Metal Processors
SKC Karbon
Springfield ReManufacturing Corp.
SuotePower Turbo
Taditel
Taizhou Proch
Taizhou Xuandi
The Remanufacture Committee of
China Association of Automobile
Manufacturers
Turbo International
Turbosynthesis
Uneeda
UNIFAP
Unlimited Packaging Supply
US Commercial Service
Van Bergen & Greener
Vensel Enterpise
VOX (Thailand) Co., Ltd.
Wabco Reman Solutions
WaiGlobal
Youtech
Yuhuan Lifeng / AVP

Big R/ReMaTecUSA Show


Exhibit Hall Days
Saturday, October 31: 1pm-5pm
Sunday, November 1: 11am-5pm
Monday, November 2: 9am-1pm

13

Registration Options
TECHNICAL MANAGEMENT COMPLETE
TRADE
SHOW PASS CONFERENCE CONFERENCE CONFERENCE

Friday-Saturday Thursday-Sunday Thursday-Sunday Thursday-Sunday


(Oct. 30 - Oct. 31) (Oct. 29 - Nov. 1) (Oct. 29 - Nov. 1) (Oct. 29 - Nov. 1)
Access to Technical Seminars
Access to Management Seminars
Expo Tech Manual
Expo Tech Program CD
Expo Management worksheets
with leather binder
Expo Management
Program CD
Coffee Breaks
Friday Luncheon
Friday Cocktail Reception
Friday & Saturday Trade Show*
Audio recordings of both the
Technical & Management
seminars

As low as

$20

As low as

$345

As low as

$345

As low as

$395

BEST
DEAL!
*And admission to the Big R/ReMaTec Show Floor on Saturday, Sunday & Monday

Expo Headquarters Hotel


Rio All-Suite Hotel & Casino

3700 W Flamingo Rd
Las Vegas, NV 89103
(888) 746-6955

$119/night
Until September 27

Each suite offers more than 600 sq.ft. of spacious luxury and at a very special ATRA group
rate! Reserve your room today! Rates will be available until the cut-off date of September 27.

14

ATRA Powertrain Expo

Schedule At A Glance
Thursday, October 29
7am-5pm

Attendee Registration

8am-6pm

Technical Seminars

3pm-6pm

Management Seminars
Generations - Bill Haas
Whats Working - Dennis Madden, Rodger Bland

6pm-7:30pm

ATRA Welcome Reception

The 948TE- Bill Brayton


Mass Air Flow Sensor Tips You Should Know - Dan Marinucci
Scoping Transmissions 2015 - Sean Boyle
Inside & Out of the U660...Solving the Mysteries - Mike Brown
Engine Diagnostics Part 1 - Scott Shotton

Friday, October 30
7am-5pm

Attendee Registration

7am-8am

ATRA Member Meeting

7:30am-5pm

Technical Seminars

8am-12pm

Management Seminars

12pm-2pm

ATRA Luncheon - sponsored by Raybestos

2pm-7pm

Trade Show

4pm-6pm

ATRA Chapter Presidents Meeting

7pm-9pm

Transtar Cocktail Reception

Diagnostic & Strategy for Repairs, Failures & Fixes of ZF Transmissions - Dirk Fuchs
Tips & Tricks from the Builders Bench - John Parmenter
Diagnose & Reprogram Transm Electro Hydraulic Control Modules (TEHCMs) - Dan Nagy
Marketing Matters - Alex Goldfayn
Sell Value, Not Transmissions - Don Hutson

Saturday, October 31
8am-5pm

Attendee Registration

8:30am-2:30pm Technical Seminars

GM 6L80/90/45 and Ford 6R140 Product Concerns - Steve Garrett


Chrysler, Looking Into the Future - Alan McAvoy
All About the 8 Speeds - Mike Souza
Torque Converters (Unravelling the Mystery) - Ed Lee

9am-12pm

Management Seminars

12pm-5pm

Trade Show

3pm-4pm

ATRA Longtimers Meeting

Increase Your Success Velocity - Jim Cathcart


Leadership Everyone Needs - Mark Sanborn

Sunday, November 1

8am-12pm

Management Seminars

9am-11am

Technical Seminars

9am-10:30am

Technical Seminars

Food For Thought - Scott Johnson


Life Happens - Maylan Newton
Engine Diagnostics Part 2 - Eric Ziegler
Reprogramming to the Fullest - Keith Clark

powertrainexpo.com

15

Registration Form

October 29 - November 1, 2015 Las Vegas, NV


Company Name

ATRA Account Number

Contact Person: (will receive all correspondence)


Address
City

State Zip

Email Address

Country

Area Code Phone No.

Fax No.

TO REGISTER: Call toll free 1-800-428-8489 or FAX this completed form to 805-988-6761

CONFERENCES

Badges will be issued from this list. Use a separate sheet for additional registrations.

PLEASE PRINT CLEARLY

(Includes Luncheon & Trade Show)

ADDITIONAL
TICKETS


Complete
TITLE:
Owner
Manager

Conference Technical Management Trade Show Lunch
Rebuilder
Diagnostician
Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE:

Owner

Manager

Rebuilder

Diagnostician

Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE:

Owner

Manager

Rebuilder

Diagnostician

Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE:

Owner

Manager

Rebuilder

Diagnostician

Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________
TITLE:

Owner

Manager

Rebuilder

Diagnostician

Other
NAME _______________________________________________________________________________

Every 5th Conference attendee is free!


Call ATRA for details

Discount for current ATRAMembers only.


Join or renew today and enjoy the member discount right away!

REGISTRATION FEES
Qty

Before Sept 1st


Member
Non Mem

Complete Conference Registrant*

_____

$ 395

$ 495

$ 495

$ 595

$ 695

$____________

Technical or Management Conference*

_____

345

445

445

545

645

$____________

Trade Show

_____

20

20

20

20

30

$____________

Extra Luncheon Ticket

_____

50

50

50

50

65 $____________

(Included with Complete, Tech & Management Conferences)

Sept. 1st - Oct. 9th ALL


Member
Non Mem ON-SITE SUBTOTAL

TOTAL $____________


*Conference Registrants
may receive Trade Show Passes for spouse and/or
children by contacting ATRA Registration at 1-800-428-8489.

All cancellation requests made


after 10/1/2015 are subject to a
$50 cancellation fee.

I do not wish to receive any advertising or promotional material from Exhibitors.

PAYMENT INFORMATION
* Check enclosed payable and mail to: ATRA, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030 Check # ______________
Charge to:

* MasterCard

* Visa

* AMEX

* Discover

Card Number____________________________________________________ Expiration Date

Security Code

Print Name on Card___________________________________________________________ Signature___________________________________________

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