Chefs know a helpful hack to keep spaghetti from falling out of an opened bag, and the same idea happens to work perfectly for zip ties. Give it a try next time you have a pack of zip ties that doesn’t have a resealable closure.
HOT OFF THE PRESS
“Can I borrow a…”
We’ve all heard the question that starts like this. So will you lend tools?
A visit to Elite JDM (VIDEO)
A playlist of videos from a recent trip to a Dorman contributor’s personal shop.
Why you shouldn’t throw out zip tie tails after a project (VIDEO)
Before you toss those zip tie scraps in the trash, consider saving them for plastic repair jobs. In many cases, the plastic used in zip ties will bond with common automotive plastics with the help of a soldering iron.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
If you have a soldering iron, you need a solder sucker (VIDEO)
Removing old solder is a crucial part of preparing a component for a new soldered connection, and a desolder pump (often called a solder sucker) is the ideal tool for the job.
Tapping V6 – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
Two technicians are examining a tapping sound coming from a V6 engine. See who has the correct response about what’s causing the noise.
Buy once, cry once: Auto parts that are worth the extra cost (VIDEO)
We’ve all heard the expression “buy once, cry once,” and for some auto parts, those are words of wisdom. For others, it might be an unnecessary expense.
Making your own gaskets? Get a hollow punch set for pro results. (VIDEO)
When it is necessary to make your own gaskets, small bolt holes are often the trickiest features to cut.
The best explanation of a differential is from 1937
Featuring state-of-the-art editing, this video is still relevant nearly a century later.
ABOUT SHOP PRESS
Shop Press is the news and idea hub for everything related to working on cars and trucks, focusing on repair, technology, and wrenching lifestyle. With interesting stories from around the world, features on creative people and solutions, and all kinds of other stuff that’ll make you use your mind and your hands.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Drag racing semi-trucks (VIDEO)
Smokin’ tires and smokin’ stacks!
Before selling a vehicle, make sure to remove personal data (VIDEO)
Smartphones, laptops, and computers are normally cleared of all data before selling or discarding to protect personal information.
Dust Cap Tool Explained (VIDEO)
How many times have you seen a hub dust cap with ugly dents from a sloppy installation? A dust cap tool is a handy tool for installing caps on customer vehicles without damaging the cap’s appearance.
Why a magnetic drain plug is a worthwhile upgrade (VIDEO)
Do your customers know the benefits of magnetic oil drain plugs? Swap out their standard drain plugs to help protect against unnecessary engine damage.
Brake booster valve – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
A customer states the brake pedal falls slightly when the brakes are applied while starting the engine. Which technician response is correct?
VIDEOS
Can’t break that crank bolt loose? You need a crank socket (VIDEO)
Crank fasteners are often a real pain to remove. Mechanics with expensive impact wrenches and large breaker bars struggle to remove them—but there’s a better way.
So you want to restore a classic or build a kit car? Think twice.
Unless you’re a professional mechanic or a hardcore DIYer, I suggest you focus on building memories instead of a car.
EGR system – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
Under what conditions would the EGR system be expected to be operational? We have the correct answer.