Advanstar Auto

Henry Gaudens presents an overview of the HD Wheels lineup, covering every category in the aftermarket with aluminum alloy wheels: Tuner, Truck/SUV and Lifted Trucks. Go to http://www.hd-inc.com to learn more about HD Wheels.

Michael Jonas discusses the features and benefits of SSBCs many product lines of disc brake kits, including its new Force 10 aluminum calipers, boosters and master cylinders, and the all new Big Bite Cross Drilled Rotor program. Go to http://www.ssbrakes.com to learn more about SSBC and its products.

Bruce Essig explains the technology built into each Odyssey Battery and how this technology gives the power and packaging needed for modern specialty vehicles. Go to http://www.odysseyfactory.com to learn more about Odyssey Batteries.

Larry Sills with Standard Motor Products has seen warranty returns increase as a result of vehicle complexity. He estimates more than 50 percent of those returns are the result of installer error. How does the industry deal with that? Most of the time the suppliers eat the cost.

Neil De Koker, president and CEO of OESA, expects to see tremendous shifts in how and where cars are manufactured as emerging markets develop in Asia and other continents.

Rob Gross with Monro Muffler Brake says customers surveyed by his company are overwhelmingly afraid of one thing – getting ripped off at the service repair bays. His company, therefore, focuses on strong relationships with consumers and making them feel at ease in his shops.

Bob Fernicola, Business Manager of Plasma Cutting Equipment for ESAB, explains that most shops will need a 30-40 amp plasma cutter for most of their needs. A machine this size offers convenience and can easily handle the 1/4-inch thick steel shops typically see.

George Witt, owner of George Witt Service, sees huge changes taking place in the automotive industry, especially as they pertain to technology, training and tooling. Those who harness the technology will separate themselves from the others, he adds.

Terry Legan, president of non-profit group Auto Mission, was on-hand at the 2008 Automotive Service Association's (ASA) annual convention to explain the group's mission. The non-profit helps reach out to at-risk teenage boys within the Texas prison and court system to help teach them auto-related skills and better their lives. One particular young man is now an engineering student at college and working at AutoZone, says Legan, who adds more than 300 cars have been donated since the group's inception, some which have been passed on to people of need.

Ron Pyle, president, Automotive Service Association, sees a need for improving communication to consumers and helping them understand the value of independent repair shops and why there are often better solutions than to take it back to the dealer. At the moment some of the messages are leading to confusion for the general public, says Pyle. Aftermarket manufacturers need to do a better job of communicating their value to consumers.