The “Big 3” Interview
Reps from Ford, GM and DaimlerChrysler speak candidly about their plans, their problems and their predictions for the collision repair industry.
The “Big 3” Interview
Reps from Ford, GM and DaimlerChrysler speak candidly about their plans, their problems and their predictions for the collision repair industry.
Stuck On Plastics: Adhesion Problems
Ever had a flaky experience when refinishing plastic parts? You’re not alone. To help prevent further adhesion problems, consider these common-sense cures — used by a pro whose history with plastics is long and sordid.
Getting Into Customers’ Heads: Increasing the Chances of Selling Every Job
Hopefully, we can all agree that collision repair falls into two distinct operations: sales and production. Your shop may have the very latest heated downdraft booth and the snazziest computer-driven structural-repair bench, but unless you can get the customer to let your shop perform the repair, all the equipment in the world won’t help.
The Science of Paint
Funky flakes and effect pigments aren’t new, but it wasn’t until OEMs determined they were lucrative that they showed up on production vehicles. Now we’ve got rainbow, holograph and even glass-chip effects.
Waste Not, Want Not
Utilizing a computerized paint-management system decreases paint waste, reduces repair costs and increases profits.
When Worlds Collide: Collision Repairers vs. Insurers
Can collision repairers really fight off the insurer invasion of the industry? Or, rather than waging war, should they learn to live together in peace?
Optimizing Your Booth
A new spraybooth will solve some – but not all – of your problems. Learn what booth manufacturers suggest to get the most from your new purchase
The History of Spraybooths
We’ve gone from painting cars next to an open window – using a paint brush – to high-tech booths smarter than we are. How’d this happen?
The Powder Paint Project
To create a cleaner, greener automotive paint, the Big Three are collaborating to put powder coatings on cars – and to send solvent clearcoats the way of dinosaurs.