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
Creative repurposing: Shims have all sorts of uses in an automotive shop
There are applications for shims besides fixing camber and panel gaps.
Don’t let your scanner go unprotected
Faults in the car pay you. Faults in the scanner cost you.
One lesson is harder for more experienced techs to learn than their rookie counterparts (VIDEO)
If you’re an experienced technician, you may feel as though you’ve seen everything, but don’t let your knowledge prevent you from learning more.
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SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Efficiency is the Name of the Game
Four proven ways to run a tighter ship at your shop.
Junkyard therapy. It’s my kind of therapy.
When I feel like dropping off the grid for a couple hours of “me” time, I head out for a walk in the park—in the junkyard.
How to find a good auto repair shop, according to actual repair professionals (VIDEO)
There’s lot of advice out there about how to choose a reliable mechanic. We asked mechanics what they would advise.
The worst cars are the best classrooms
They don’t build ‘em like they used to, and that’s a shame.
What are the sockets and wrenches you can do without?
There are definitely useless sizes. Or are there?
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Are you a wrench and a writer? A counterperson and a communicator? A service writer and a scribe? Get paid to share your experience and expertise with thousands of Shop Press readers.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Dead Battery? (Video)
Diagnosing the cause of a battery drain can be a challenge today.
The fastest way to remove a Woodruff key (VIDEO)
Watch as Lemmy demonstrates the fastest, easiest way to remove a Woodruff key using a common tool that might surprise you. Give it a try next time!
Seven tips to help you pass your ASE exams
There’s no magic bullet, but sometimes one or two answers is the difference between pass and fail.
What are your least favorite repair jobs? (VIDEO)
Life can’t all be brake jobs and pre-delivery inspections. Beating time is the name of the game, but it doesn’t always work out. Watch as a few Dorman mechanics talk about the jobs that make more sweat than bread in this video.
PSA: Take a quick look at your punches and chisels (and be sure they’re ready for service)
Dressing chisels and punches, however, is a housekeeping task I’ve found not everyone knows they should be doing, and dress your punches and chisels!
VIDEOS
Are automakers starting to rethink OTA microtransactions?
Microtransactions spark unexpected microaggressions.
Top 5 mechanical oddities on RHD vehicles, and how to deal with them if one rolls into your shop
Working on a right-hand drive vehicle requires deviating slightly from a mechanic’s routine.
The only two mistakes you can make on your first timing belt job (and why you shouldn’t worry about them)
T-belts aren’t scary at all.