They look the same, but serve different roles. Here are the very specific scenarios where the lesser-known parallel connector shines.
Parallel connectors vs. butt connectors
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
Surprise: having snacks and phone chargers in your repair shop’s waiting room makes customers happier
A recent J.D. Power study found that a few simple amenities in your service center’s lobby go a long way toward making your customers want to come back, but few businesses have them.
Exhaust tips: three ways to fine-tune your method
Exhaust work is straightforward and (I think) easy to understand. Here are some pointers for service techs to avoid comebacks when hanging pipe.
Four not-so-obvious ways grease can come in handy
Lubricant? More like lubri-can. A very cheap staple of most shops, I’ve learned to use it in a few unconventional ways.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Mechanic trivia: Which vehicle has a longer passenger side wiper blade? (VIDEO)
Almost every vehicle on the road has a longer wiper blade on the driver side. On older vehicles, you’ll also see two of the same size wipers working together. But can you think of any models that have the longer wiper blade on the passenger side?
Could Tesla actually be making their vehicles less expensive to fix?
Elon Musk says Tesla Insurance is pushing automaker to simplify designs and increase parts availability.
Clean the #&@$ing snow off the roof of your car or truck
Driving around with a bunch of snow on top of your vehicle is not only unsafe, but also illegal in many places
Miata Spotter’s Guide (VIDEO)
Learn to ID Miatas generation by generation like a pro (and from a pro!)
Texas nonprofit helps low-income vehicle owners afford auto repairs
Autocare Haven uses donations and volunteers to subsidize service for vets, seniors, single parents and others.
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.
Book review: “Pump and Circumstance”
A walk (or drive) through the history of gas and service stations.
Serviceability Hall of Shame: Ford Taurus Spring Shields
Ford’s so-called fix for servicing corroded front springs was something neither drivers nor dealer techs were happy about.
“Horizon Chase Turbo” is probably my favorite racing game of the last 30 years (VIDEO)
There’s still a place for arcade racing games, even in today’s world of hyper-realistic simulation racing games
January Automotive Horoscopes
We read the astrological signs and predicted your automotive future.
It’s totally fine to run your fuel tank down to empty
Stop telling your customers otherwise—modern fuel systems don’t care.
VIDEOS
Test fuses without removal! (VIDEO)
How to test for blown fuses in a car or truck | Fast and easy method
Don’t let the grind of fixing cars wear down your love for ‘em
A local automotive event is the cure for whatever car doldrums you’re in.
Torque wrench vs. torque stick for installing wheels (VIDEO)
What tools do you trust when installing wheels on a vehicle? The trusty torque wrench, or the straightforward torque sticks? Or maybe both?