Sun Auto Tire & Service announced the acquisition of 33 Caliber Auto Care locations throughout the state of Texas. The 33 Caliber Auto Care locations spread across Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio complement Sun Autoâs existing footprint in these markets, according to the company,
âOur decision to acquire the Caliber Auto Care business, and Caliberâs choice to sell to Sun Auto, highlights the mutual respect both companies have for one another” said Sun Auto CEO Tony Puckett. “I look forward to welcoming Caliber Auto Care teammates into our Sun Auto family.â
Who can benefit from these performance components?
Brakes are, conveniently, one of the most obvious automotive components to show wear, and drivers rarely go long between repairs once the car starts making the tell-tale squeaking or grinding noises. Even if the driver can somehow ignore the pulsation in his foot from a failing brake system, his passengers and passersby will likely remind him to “get those fixed!”
Because it’s a primary safety issue, drivers will typically agree to some recommended service procedures during a necessary brake job. Pads are usually a no-brainer. Rotor replacement may take a bit more effort. But calipers don’t always get the attention they deserve.
Most import and domestic vehicles come factory equipped with single-piston calipers. Their construction means they are adequate for normal braking and, frankly, they are cheaper for the OEM to spec and install than multi-piston calipers.
Brake calipers may be designed to last the life of the car but what does that mean? Is the car being driven the way it was designed? Have the related components been serviced on a timely basis?
Caliper Upgrades
Caliper replacement may be necessary in high-mileage vehicles because of fluid leaks or because the calipers are sticking. Stock replacement components will likely do the job just fine, but for customers who believe “fine” isn’t good enough, or if a customer is serious about improving braking performance, replacing stock single-piston floating calipers with aftermarket multi-piston fixed calipers is the way to go.
Multi-piston calipers found on high-performance vehicles including many import cars need special attention during a brake job. The more moving parts that are used to stop the car means the greater chance that a small problem in a system can lead to bigger problems.
Aftermarket performance brake kits typically include multi-piston fixed calipers that replace the stock calipers, rotors with the same or larger diameter, new performance pads (typically some type of semi-metallic or ceramic/metallic formula), new braided stainless-steel front brake hoses and new caliper mounts (if required).
Most aftermarket performance brake kits use multi-piston calipers instead of single-piston calipers in order to multiply brake force. The amount of clamping force the caliper can apply to squeeze the pads against the rotor depends on the surface area of the caliper piston and the amount of force generated by the master cylinder. If hydraulic pressure from the master cylinder remains consistent, then increasing the surface area of the piston by using more than one piston will multiply braking force.
Another reason for using multi-piston calipers is to reduce pad flex for better clamping effectiveness and friction. If a caliper has a single, large piston and a relatively short pad, pad flex is usually not an issue. But if a caliper has longer pads (to increase the friction surface area), applying pressure only in the middle of the pad with a single piston may cause the ends of the pads to bow up slightly, with the most force being applied in the middle. So to ensure the full length of the pad contacts the rotor, two or more pistons are used to more evenly distribute the clamping force along the entire length of the pad.
To even out clamping force, some multi-piston performance calipers use different-sized pistons; typically smaller diameter pistons on the leading edge of the caliper and larger pistons behind it.
Most performance calipers are aluminum rather than cast iron and come powder-coated in a variety of bright colors. Some are also available with a clear anodized coating or are bright plated to resist corrosion and enhance their appearance. Installing a set of brightly colored calipers will certainly dress-up the appearance of any vehicle and enhance the look of the brakes behind alloy wheels.
Most of the aftermarket performance brake kits use fixed calipers rather than floating calipers. This is done so the calipers can squeeze the pads evenly from both sides. But this requires changing the caliper mounts and carefully aligning the calipers to the rotors when they are installed so the pads wear evenly. If a fixed caliper is not perfectly parallel to its rotor, the front and rear edges of the pads will not wear evenly.
Other Upgrade Considerations
The larger the rotors, the more brake torque they can generate when the brakes are applied. Up front, that’s a good feature to have. But in the rear, too much brake torque can upset the vehicle’s brake bias and cause the rear brakes to feel grabby and lock up prematurely. The fix is to either use a properly sized rear rotor, or to install an adjustable valve in the rear brake line(s) to reduce the pressure so the rear brakes don’t exert too much pressure when the brakes are applied.
Stopping is a safety concern, of course, but can also be a style issue.Today’s multi-piston calipers and performance brake components can give your customers the best of both worlds.
ADS-TEC Energy plc will be demonstrating its ultra-fast EV charging platform, ChargeBox, in booth C7387 at NACS Show 2024 at the Las Vegas Convention Center, October 8-10, 2024. The company will also show how c-stores are increasing traffic and growing revenue from this unique amenity.
With up to 320 kW charging power and compatibility with both CCS1 and NACS charging plugs, ADS-TEC Energy’s ChargeBox offers maximum flexibility while also saving operators up to 65% on peak power demand charges versus conventional DC chargers the company said.
According to Charging the Future, a study conducted by Consumer Reports in March 2024, EV charging is good for businesses and retailers – including c-stores and gas stations. There are strong economic incentives to install EV chargers, and one charging network found that 89% of EV drivers make a retail purchase while charging.
ADS-TEC Energy customer Inland Stores has experienced revenue growth and increased customer traffic since installing two ChargeBox systems at a location in Tallahassee, FL. the company said.
“We love our ADS-TEC Energy ChargeBox systems,” said Glennie Bench, president and COO, Southwest Georgia Oil Company Inc. “Not only has the revenue generated from our chargers exceeded our projections, the ChargeBox customers typically spend more and stay longer. Customers love the Level 3 speed and seek out our store for EV charging over other options.”
“Our goal is to help c-store owners upgrade their offerings and stand out to EV drivers,” said Renato Gross, senior executive vice president, ADS-TEC Energy. “By installing ultra-fast EV chargers, these stores will become key stops for EV drivers, who will also spend time inside stores and money on retail purchases. It’s a win-win for store owners who want to grow revenue, and EV drivers who want a fast and easy charging experience.”
When comes to motorcycle tyre replacement, many individuals just mount the tyre on the wheel hub and use it immediately. They refuse to go to the balancing machine to perform any motorcycle wheel balancing tests. This article will explain why it is necessary to balance motorcycle wheels.
One possible explanation for this is that they are unaware of how crucial two-wheeler wheel balancing is. However, the whole scenario is rather easy due to the lack of equipment, and balancing two-wheeler wheels is not possible.
What then is wheel balancing on a motorcycle? Do motorcycle tyres require dynamic balancing? The definition and significance of motorcycle wheel balancing are explained in this article.
What is Motorcycle Wheel Balancing?
As a matter of fact, throughout the manufacturing process of tyres and wheels, there will be a weight imbalance that, while not immediately apparent at moderate speeds, will result in vibrations in the handlebars and shaking wheels at high speeds. To prevent this, we must add lead to the hub to modify the wheel counterweight. Dynamic balancing is the process of determining equilibrium on a rolling wheel.
Does wheel balance for motorcycles have to be done?
Vehicles tend to have more balancing, and many individuals learn how important it is only after they have an accident while driving. In actuality, dynamic balance tests are also required for motorcycles.
Additionally, individuals frequently overlook the issue of motorcycle wheel balancing. Motorcycle tyre specifications such as tyre pattern, tyre pressure, wear level, etc. are the main focus. At high speeds, motorcycles with unbalanced wheels will feel as though they are floating in midair.
In extreme circumstances, when cornering, the back wheels will wobble and slide sideways. Uneven tyre wear is caused by the continuous cycling of motorcycle tyres while driving, which involves abrupt acceleration and braking.
When is motorcycle wheel balance necessary?
The front and rear tyres are slanted to one side after mounting or repairing them after a motorcycle crash.
When driving, the handlebars sway and tremble or are excessively heavy.
The motorcycle veers left or right when traveling straight. While there is no such thing as a condition of this kind, it is advised that the new motorcycle be driven for three months, and then every six months or two thousand kilometers for maintenance purposes.
It will slip sideways when turning, and at the end, unanticipated mishaps might happen. However, these risks can be avoided if lead is applied to the wheel (to balance the motorcycle’s wheel), even though it only adds a few grams or a dozen grams of weight.
The advantages of completing the motorcycle’s wheel balancing
Make driving more comfortable
Use less fuel.
Prolong the lifespan of your tyres
Verify that the vehicle is stable when traveling straight ahead.
Lessens abrasion on the chassis suspension components
Boost traffic safety
At least once a month, vehicle owners should check the pressure in all of the tyres, and when inflating tyres, they should compare the results to the recommended tyre pressure. Wheel imbalance can also be caused by anomalous tyre wear, which can be accelerated by either too high or too low tyre pressure.
Safety measures to take when doing wheel balancing on a motorcycle
When balancing the wheels of a motorcycle, there are a few general considerations to consider:
For dynamic balance, use new tyres—ideally, ones with a low flatness rate.
Avoid switching to old tyres and collisions after balancing.
The dynamic balance test for motorcycles is only suitable for tyres that are mounted on alloy wheels.
Why don’t some motorcycles balance properly?
There is no installation of a counterbalance and some tiny repair shops do not utilize original tyres. Therefore, after traveling at 60 km/h, there will be a noticeable vibration throughout the entire vehicle, which is also a sign that the tyre is not performing dynamic balancing.
The idea is to replace the original tyres and install the tyres strictly in compliance with the standards, which can practically create the dynamic balancing effect even if this kind of vehicle cannot be dynamically balanced.
Conclusion
Motorcycle wheel balancing is a maintenance task that needs to be completed whenever a tyre is reassembled, but many people are unaware of its significance or the need to find the solution. Unbalanced wheels lead to uneven tyre wear, etc., and riding comfort can be significantly impacted by not adjusting wheel balance.
Where Can Get Reliable Two-Wheeler Wheel Balancing?
Reach out to your nearby ATS ELGI equipped Wheel Service center to balance the wheels for a smooth and safe drive.
Hybrid vehicles place greater stress on belts and tensioners due to their dual-mode systems. Specialized hybrid tensioners are engineered to handle varying torque demands and ensure optimal belt performance during rapid transitions between electric and gasoline modes, reducing wear and improving efficiency.
This video is sponsored by Litens Aftermarket.
The post Understanding Why Hybrid Vehicles Need Specialized Tensioners appeared first on Brake & Front End.
Starting with 2018/2019 vehicle models, FCA, now known as Stellantis, started integrating a security gateway module designed to protect vehicle networks from unauthorized access. Today, most of the new vehicles under the Stellantis name – Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Fiat, and Alfa Romeo – have that security gateway module. Nissan started to implement similar security modules in some of its 2020 model-year vehicles.
However, the module also prevents aftermarket diagnostic tools from conducting meaningful diagnostic tasks and performing many service resets and calibrations. Even basic tasks such as erasing codes or relearning TPMS sensor IDs are restricted.
Thankfully for shop technicians, AutoAuth, a subscription-based platform, was developed to allow OE-approved aftermarket diagnostics scan tools to access the security gateway module on these security module-equipped vehicles.
Autel tablets were approved by FCA in June of 2020 for gateway access and recently by Nissan. Via AutoAuth, shops and technicians can register themselves and their scan tools for gateway access to the systems behind the security module and perform the necessary tests, services, and actions. All Autel tablets can be registered with AutoAuth and used on these late-model Stellantis and Nissan vehicles.
More automakers are starting to implement security modules in their new vehicles. So, the next time you are in the market for a scan tool, ensure it’s authorized to work on the vehicles that come into your shop.
National Car Charging (NCC), announced it won a multi-year charging procurement contract for Level-2 and DC fast charging infrastructure with E&I Cooperative Services. The contract goes into effect immediately allowing E&I’s member audience to take full advantage of the “highly competitive EV infrastructure rates right away,” the company said.
“We’re thrilled to announce National Car Charging has been selected by E&I Cooperative Services to bring electric vehicle charging to our schools nationwide,” said Jim Burness, National Car Charging’s CEO and founder. “We believe education is the cornerstone of America’s electrification movement, and this partnership will benefit our children’s health and also reinforce the importance of alternative energy options for our communities.”
National Car Charging will be supplying both networked and non-networked fast charging solutions from a wide range of manufacturers including ChargePoint, Kempower, and Webasto. It will also be presenting several different networking software options including EV Connect, and maintenance services from ChargerHelp!.
The wide selection of hardware and software will meet the varied demands within the educational space from parking to a wide array of fleet vehicles to school buses and watercraft. Prior to offering hardware and software recommendations, NCC provides consulting and planning services to ensure the right solution for school districts.
“Not only is NCC providing competitive pricing and significant industry expertise to our members across the country, but their strong commitment to the environment and the educational community aligns seamlessly with E&I’s values,” shared Eric Frank, CEO and president of E&I Cooperative Services. “As the only member-owned, non-profit cooperative exclusively focused on education, we’re excited to provide members with access to an industry leader in this area.”
Collision Repair System (CRS) be a complete approach to vehicle repair in a bodyshop, with integrating advanced technologies, specialized equipment, and skilled technicians to restore vehicles to OEM specification
A. Points to remember during Pre- vehicle
B. Points to remember during post vehicle repair
About Micro B
Collision repair is a service that has been used in the automotive industry for many years. It’s used to repair damage caused in vehicles during collisions. Collision repair is unique in that it allows for damaged vehicles to be repaired and returned to full functionality without the use of new materials.
Benefits for Customers
Application Micro B
Understanding the MICRO B:
The Micro B System is designed to handle minor & medium damages to vehicles with effectively. Whether it’s a small dent, scratch, or minor collision damage, this system provides a comprehensive solution that restores the vehicle to its original condition with minimal downtime.
Application Micro B
Repair Techniques
Turnaround Time
Cost-Effectiveness
Environmentally Friendly Practices
The Repair System employs advanced repair techniques designed specifically for minor & medium damages. From paintless dent repair to spot painting, every aspect of the repair process is meticulously executed to achieve seamless results.
A Traditional repair methods that can take days or even weeks to complete, the Micro B Repair System operates on a quick turnaround model. Most repairs can be completed within hours, which leads to customer satisfaction also increase workshop productivity.
For minor & medium damages, the Micro B System offers a cost-effective alternative to conventional repair services. Customers can expect to pay significantly less for repairs, making it an attractive option. With a quick turnaround time.
Micro B System is can also be called as environmentally friendly. By minimizing the use of materials and reducing energy consumption, it helps moderate the environmental footprint associated with repair materials.
Final Thoughts
In conclusion, Collision Repair System (CRS) repairs play a crucial role in modern bodyshops by ensuring vehicles are restored to their original condition with the highest level of accuracy and safety. By utilizing advanced technology and techniques, CRS enhances the repair process, providing customers with peace of mind that their vehicles are not only repaired but also thoroughly inspected for any hidden damages. As the automotive industry continues to evolve, the importance of CRS in maintaining vehicle integrity and driver safety cannot be overstated. Whether it’s a minor fender bender or a major collision, CRS repairs ensure your vehicle is back on the road in optimal condition.
Mitchell has published its latest Plugged-In: EV Collision Insights report for Q2 2024, which features the latest U.S. and Canadian claims data on battery electric vehicles (BEVs), mild hybrid electric vehicles (MHEVs) and plug-in hybrid electric vehicles (PHEVs) — highlighting how differences in their complexity and construction are affecting claim costs and repair operations.
“Although BEV sales have slowed in 2024, sales of mild and plug-in hybrid automobiles remain strong,” Ryan Mandell, director of claims performance for Mitchell, said. “Like BEVs, these vehicles can be costlier to repair after a collision when compared to their internal combustion engine, or ICE, counterparts. However, with both an ICE and small electric battery, mild hybrids are remarkably similar to gasoline-only powered automobiles when it comes to claims severity.”
In Q2 2024, the average claims severity for repairable MHEVs was $4,726 in the U.S. and $5,302 in Canada, according to the report. For vehicles with an ICE, it was $4,806 in the U.S. and $4,958 in Canada, a difference of $80 and $344, respectively. Since PHEVs rely on a larger, high-voltage battery in addition to a secondary ICE, their average severity is more closely aligned to BEVs at $5,059 versus $5,753 in the U.S. and $5,665 versus $6,534 in Canada, according to the report.
According to Mitchell, other notable findings in this quarter’s report include:
Parts utilization: OEM parts continue to be used more frequently in the repair of BEVs, with 89% of the parts dollars on estimates for repairable BEVs being OEM parts as compared to 65% for ICE automobiles.
Total loss frequency: The total loss frequency of BEVs and 2021 and newer gasoline-powered vehicles — which are comparable in their complexity and cost to repair — remains similar at 9.16% for BEVs in the U.S. versus 9.45% for ICE automobiles and 7.24% versus 8.52% respectively in Canada.
Repair operations: Although BEV collision-damage estimates have a higher average number of mechanical labor hours than ICE appraisals (5.21% compared to 8.18%), they’re less likely to include frame labor. Frame labor is added when technicians use a hydraulic frame machine to straighten both full ladder frame components and unibody structures. The lack of this labor type on BEV estimates could mean that their design is more effective at preventing crash energy from damaging the vehicle’s structural components.
Nikola Corporation, global provider of zero-emissions transportation and energy supply and infrastructure solutions via the HYLA brand, appointed Thomas “Tom” Schmitt as its Chief Commercial Officer (CCO).
As CCO, Schmitt will align Nikola’s commercial efforts to scale the company’s business. He will oversee the company’s sales, commercial operations, dealerships, service, customer success and marketing functions.
Schmitt brings to Nikola decades of transportation leadership, having served as CEO of Forward Air, CCO of Schenker, CEO of Purolator and FedEx Supply Chain and is a longtime board member for various well-known entities, Nikola Corporation said.
“Fortifying our commercial team is crucial to our success as we focus on our customers’ experience and expanding the zero-emission Class 8 marketplace,” said President and CEO, Stephen Girsky. “Tom brings a solid track record built over the past 35-plus years that will help drive forward Nikola’s strategic and operational goals, inside and out.”
