Industrialization of the Industry
You don’t have to manufacture automobiles, guns or hamburgers to take advantage of the industrialized process. Such assembly-line concepts can be applied to vehicle repairs, too. Some shops have gone so far as to specialize in departments — paint, metal, mechanical — but they could go even further.
Salvaging the Salvage-Parts Market
Collision repairers agree: Used parts are a viable alternative to new OE crash parts. They also agree that the lack of compensation they’re given for making used parts usable isn’t doable. Their solution? Insurers need to scrap their current way of thinking and recognize what repairers have to do to save them money.
In September’s article, "Repairing the Crash-Parts Market" (pg. 44), we took a closer look at the manufacturing of aftermarket crash parts, the problems repairers have with their use and the solutions raised by industry leaders. This month, we’ll examine the salvage-parts market in much the same way.
Plastic Fasteners, Clips, and Auto Body Rivets
Items such as fasteners, clips and rivets may be small, but their impact on profits can be huge. Invest in too many, and you’ll end up with stuff you’ll never use. Invest in too few, and you’ll end up not having stuff on hand that you need.
Ending The Blending Debate
The issue isn’t about whether or not you should blend — make it a standard operating policy and just do it! The issue is about blending correctly, meeting vehicle owners expectations and getting paid by insurers.
Where Have All The Graduates Gone
The number of quality entry-level techs graduating from vo-tech schools continues to slump. So what are you doing about it? As the saying goes, if you’re not a part of the solution, you’re a part of the problem.
Should You Repair Air Bags?
With the right training and tools, air-bag replacement can be done at your shop — bringing you more profits and more control over uncontrollable circumstances.
Writing Better Estimates
Have you ever heard the saying “with knowledge comes power”? Whether you have or haven’t, take a moment to think about how powerful that statement really is. Now relate that statement to running your business.
Diagnosing Power-Train Damage
Ever suffer from “post traumatic tail light syndrome” — as the customer drives off in his newly repaired vehicle, you wonder if you found all the damage? To help, techs offer insight on finding elusive mechanical problems.
If You Build It…Remodeling Tips for Best Results
If you remodel your shop – and do it right – the return on your investment will be improved efficiency, increased profits and more motivated employees. Take it from these guys …
Is Your Shop Lost? Estimators and Knowledge Go Together
A solid estimate is the road map to quality repairs and higher profits. But if your estimator isn’t knowledgeable enough, he could steer your shop in the wrong direction.