Fiasco-Free Quarter-Panel Replacement
I was 17 and knew all there was to know … at least that’s what I thought until my first quarter-panel replacement. I learned from that disaster, and you can, too – by following these 19 steps.
Stick With It
Repairers across the country are utilizing adhesive bonding technology for panel replacement. If you’re ready to give it a try, these step-by-step instructions will show you how.
There’s a Right Way … and There’s a Wrong Way
Paint-shop best practices.
Lining Up Income
Spray-on bedlining service can give your business a much-needed boost.
Every Claim Is Not the Same
Insurance companies have led most consumers and shop owners to believe there’s no difference between first- and third-party claims – even though entirely different sets of laws and rules apply. And these differences can affect every aspect of your shop, from job scheduling to parts selection to liability to profitability.
The Total Story
Why are some cars repaired when they should be totaled, and others totaled when they should be repaired? Because, too often, poorly trained people are estimating damages. If it’s a total, then total it. If it’s a borderline case, communicate with your customer and your tech. But keep in mind that customer safety is your No. 1 priority.
Repeat Yourself: Produce the Same Operation Repeatedly and Consistently
“Standardization” isn’t about cloning shops. It’s about having the ability to produce the same operation repeatedly and consistently so it can be audited. Why go to the trouble? Implementation of such standards will improve profitability and quality, reduce cycle time and chaos that keeps you busy putting out fires – but hinders you from getting anything done.
10 Steps For Delivering a Lean, Mean, Clean Machine
When you carefully detail vehicles, customers are reassured the entire repair was equally well done. In fact, their satisfaction will increase by as much as 40 percent if their vehicles are truly sparkling clean on delivery.
See Spot Run: Squeeze-Type Resistance Spot Welder
Despite it’s long history, “resistance welding” is aptly named – because many technicians still continue to resist using it.
Purchasing Profile: Aftermarket Crash Parts
You know you have to spend money to make money – but sometimes it’s on stuff you’d rather not buy.