Auto repair pros probably know the expression “buy once, cry once,” and for some tools, techs should buy the best they can afford.
HOT OFF THE PRESS
Harmonic balancers – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
A defective harmonic balancer can affect the accuracy of ignition timing readings or a defective harmonic balancer can damage the crank. Which technician is correct?
Easy tests for diesel exhaust fluid (DEF) contamination (VIDEO)
DEF is easy to contaminate, and fortunately, it’s also easy to test. Check to be sure that your customers’ DEF is up to spec with these simple tests.
Technicians vs. DIYers: How well can you gauge tire pressure? (VIDEO)
In this challenge, techs and DIYers get as close as possible to a target final pressure to see who’s got the best skills and strategies at the tire machine.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
The very best way to remove grease from auto upholstery
This surefire solution really stinks.
What is a core charge?
A little glimpse into the world of making old parts new.
How do you inspect a serpentine belt for wear?
Inspection of a belt goes beyond the old standbys of checking for cracks and fraying.
Brake rotor thickness variation – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
On a car with disc brakes, what is the most likely symptom of a vehicle with rotors that measured out-of-spec for thickness variation when measured at several places on the rotor surface?
The importance of testing engine coolant (VIDEO)
Peter Meier discusses the importance of testing coolant and how mechanics can use simple strip testers to keep cooling systems safe.
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.
Bump steer – ASE practice questions (VIDEO)
You know what bump steer is. Where does it originate?
Transfer cases: Married vs. divorced FAQ (VIDEO)
When two transfer cases love each other very much…
New to the team but not new to the business (VIDEO)
A Master Technician and nationally known trainer joins the Shop Press family. Say hello to Pete Meier!
Square drive: make or buy before you need ‘em
Female metric square drive plugs were new to me. They might be to you, too.
Customer states truck was vandalized… Do you know what happened here? (VIDEO)
Each line item confirms it—cheating doesn’t pay.
VIDEOS
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.