Automotive Field Theory

Shame vs. Guilt: Margaret Light explains the difference between these two often confused emotions. Guilt is about feeling bad for doing something wrong, while shame is about feeling like a bad person. Guilt can motivate change, but shame can lead to negative self-critical thoughts and harm relationships.

Show Notes

• The difference between shame and guilt (00:01:30) 
• Personal experience with shame (00:03:28)
• Challenging negative beliefs (00:06:22) 
• Shame and Guilt (00:08:18) Discussion on the difference between shame and guilt, and how shame affects individuals in their day-to-day lives.
• Childhood Experiences of Shame (00:09:23) 
• Sharing and Naming Shame (00:12:15) 
• Recognizing and Understanding Shame (00:15:34)
• Dealing with Shame and Self-Compassion (00:18:38) 
• Leaning into Shame and Seeking External Validation (00:21:31) 
• The impact of shame on individuals (00:25:55) 
• Creating a shame-filled environment (00:26:16)
• The connection between self-talk and how we treat others (00:27:30) 
• Shame and Substance Use (00:31:00) 
• The Shame Spiral (00:32:22) 
• Window of Tolerance and Coping Strategies (00:34:19) 
• Regulating Your System (00:38:45) 
• Regulating Others (00:40:55)
• Guilt vs. Shame (00:44:27) 
• Recognizing and not internalizing feedback (00:48:14)
• Healthy guilt vs shame in a professional setting (00:51:07) 
• The importance of relationships with clients (00:53:57) 
• The fascination with understanding human behavior (00:55:00)

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow discusses the challenges and considerations of offering small engine repair services in an auto repair shop. He shares his personal experience with his grandparents' implement dealer and explains the low profitability of consumer-level products like chainsaws and lawn mowers. The concept of opportunity cost is emphasized, highlighting the potential loss of focusing on these additional services. He also discusses the challenges of finding parts for classic cars and the need to consider the opportunity cost when expanding services beyond auto repair.

Show Notes:

• The challenges of offering small engine repair (00:02:21) The difficulties and considerations of offering small engine repair services in an auto repair shop, including opportunity cost and low profit margins.
• The struggles of small engine repair shops (00:04:51) Explains the struggles faced by repair facilities and dealers that focus solely on small engines, including the high overhead costs and low profitability.
• The importance of technician training (00:08:24) Highlights the benefits of technician training in improving knowledge, skills, job satisfaction, and overall shop profitability.
• Understanding opportunity cost (00:09:30) Explains the concept of opportunity cost and its significance in terms of productivity and profitability in an auto repair shop.
• Considering opportunity cost in shop operations (00:10:36) Discusses the impact of opportunity cost on shop operations, particularly in terms of vehicle storage and its effect on productivity and income.
• The challenges of finding parts (00:16:46) Discussion on the difficulties of finding parts for small engine repair and how it affects the rate of service.
• Working on classic cars (00:17:57) Exploration of the shop's willingness to work on classic cars and the positive response from customers.
• Considering opportunity cost (00:18:51) Advice on considering the potential loss of income when offering additional services and the importance of evaluating daily tasks.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow is with Chad Austin, the owner of Austin Automotive in Canon City, Colorado. They discuss Chad's background as a mechanic and the challenges and successes of running a shop. They also discuss the importance of having the right tools for the job, the challenges of working on electronic modules, and the benefits of using digital tools in automotive repair. They touch on air conditioning systems, diagnostic techniques, and the future of AC system repairs in electric vehicles. Overall, they provide valuable insights into the automotive repair industry.

Show Notes

• The challenges of scheduling (00:01:02) Discussion on the difficulties of aligning schedules and the busy nature of the summer season.
• Running a brick and mortar shop (00:01:17) Clarification that the shop is not a mobile business and primarily operates from a physical location.
• Booking out appointments (00:03:07) The shop's schedule is booked out for several weeks, including oil changes, due to high demand and the shop's reputation for handling difficult cases.
• The challenges of engine replacements (00:08:22) Discussion about the time-consuming nature of engine replacements and the impact on technician availability.
• The challenges of running a shop in Colorado (00:15:43) Discussion about the unique circumstances of running a shop in Colorado, including the frequency of snowstorms and the impact on different businesses.
• The frustrations of dealing with multiple passwords for different manufacturers (00:18:25) Discussion about the difficulties of managing passwords for various manufacturers and the desire for a global password or authenticator app.
• Challenges of Mobile Work (00:23:07) Discussion on the difficulties of being a mobile technician and the importance of having the necessary tools.
• Doing Repairs at the Shop (00:23:22) Exploration of the benefits of performing repairs at the shop, including having access to all tools and space.
• Anticipating Increased Demand for EEPROM Services (00:27:40) Conversation about the potential rise in demand for EEPROM services and the challenges and opportunities it presents for technicians.
• The challenges of using third-party software for vehicle modules (00:29:50) Discussion about the need for legislation or government intervention to allow legitimate use of used modules without relying on third-party software.
• The complexity of GM engineering software (00:30:36) Conversation about the complicated nature of GM engineering software and its ability to change VIN numbers and reset bricked modules.
• The need for legitimate access to software and credentials (00:32:31) Agreement on the importance of obtaining legitimate access to software and credentials to fix cars and reduce electronic waste.
• The challenges of flashing modules (00:37:47) Discussion on the difficulties of flashing modules in vehicles and the workaround methods used.
• Renting out tooling to other shops (00:39:56) The practice of loaning or renting out specialized tools to other shops and the benefits it brings.
• The variety of scan tools in the shop (00:43:21) The different types and brands of scan tools used in the shop, including Snap-on and Launch devices, and the need for multiple tools for different functions.
• The challenges of using factory scan tools (00:44:51) Discussion about the limitations and benefits of using factory scan tools for Subaru diagnostics.
• The value of joining an air conditioning group (00:49:55) Conversation about the creation and growth of an automotive air conditioning group on Facebook, and the benefits of learning from experienced members.
• The benefits of digital manifold gauge (00:53:02) The advantages of using a digital manifold gauge for leak testing and tracking pressure loss.
• The escalating cost of acquiring equipment (00:53:49) The increasing expenses associated with purchasing additional tools and equipment for automotive services.
• The challenge of availability and urgency in tool acquisition (00:54:24) The delay in receiving a specific tool due to high demand and the willingness to pay more for immediate access to tools.
• Moisture Indicators and Evacuation Time (01:01:04) Discussion on using micron gauges to detect moisture in the system and the need for longer evacuation times in humid environments.
• Leaking Front Seal and Commercial Systems (01:02:05) Exploration of how a leaking front seal can affect the vacuuming process and the differences between commercial and residential systems in terms of sealing.
• Vacuum Pump CFM and System Size (01:04:00) Comparison of different vacuum pump CFM ratings and how it relates to the size of the system being serviced.
• Flushing out a condenser (01:08:03) Discussion on the misconception of being able to flush out a condenser and the challenges of doing so.
• Using a recirculating flush machine (01:09:31) Explanation of a flush machine that circulates flush solvent and filters out contaminants, making the cleaning process more efficient.
• Replacing components and flushing the system (01:12:00) Experience with a failed compressor and the decision to replace multiple components and use a flush machine to ensure system cleanliness.
• The challenges of AC system repairs in electric vehicles (01:15:58) Discussion on the potential difficulties and costs associated with repairing AC systems in electric vehicles.
• The use of CO2 as a refrigerant in electric vehicles (01:17:10) Exploration of the use of CO2 as a refrigerant in electric vehicles and the challenges it presents.
• The need for specialized equipment for CO2 refrigerant recovery (01:18:24) Conversation about the lack of recovery units for CO2 refrigerant in the automotive industry and the need for specialized equipment to handle it.
• Testing current directly (01:22:20) Discussion on the benefits of testing current directly in electrical repair and diagnostics, and the realization that this method has been used for decades.
• Challenges in diagnosing AC issues (01:23:38) The difficulties in diagnosing AC issues due to the lack of information from manufacturers and the need for specialized equipment.
• Environmental factors in AC diagnostics (01:25:23) The impact of environmental factors, such as air density and humidity, on AC diagnostics and the need to establish known good values specific to different regions and vehicles.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow, Pedro de la Torre, and Justin Morgan discuss the challenges and frustrations of working in the automotive industry. They talk about the difficulties of diagnosing and fixing cars, the pressure to perform, and the industry's changing landscape with new technologies and complex vehicles. They also touch on the importance of staying positive, time management, training, and skill development, dealing with module failures, and the impact of mental health on their work. The conversation revolves around the struggles and frustrations of working in the automotive industry and the need for support and collaboration within the industry.

Show Notes

• The challenges of working in the automotive industry (00:00:51) Discussion about the frustrations, feeling of being in a slump, and pressure to perform in the automotive industry.
• The changing landscape of the industry and increased complexity (00:05:14) Discussion about the increased complexity of vehicles, network issues, intermittent parasitic drains, and the challenges of working with new technologies.
• Staying Positive and Networking (00:07:58) The importance of maintaining a positive mindset, networking with others, and sharing both the good and the bad experiences.
• Seeking Wins and Building Confidence (00:12:23) Advice on finding small victories in the midst of challenging situations to improve confidence and performance.
• The struggle to find direction (00:13:35) Discussion about the frustration of not having a clear direction in diagnosing cars and the importance of gathering research and data.
• Prioritization and dealing with intermittent problems (00:14:40) The challenge of prioritizing tasks and dealing with intermittent issues.
• The struggle of identifying unknown signals (00:18:21) The difficulty of identifying unknown signals in diagrams and operation descriptions.
• The struggle with intermittent misfires (00:19:28) Discussion about the challenges and frustrations of diagnosing and fixing intermittent misfires in cars.
• The frustration with EVAP systems (00:20:14) Conversation about the difficulties of working with EVAP systems, including the long wait times and temperature requirements for testing.
• The struggle with ADAS modules (00:24:25) Discussion about a specific case involving ADAS modules in a Nissan vehicle, highlighting the challenges of identifying and obtaining the correct modules for repair.
• The struggle with older vehicles and changing technology (00:28:14) Exploration of the challenges posed by older vehicles and the changing landscape of the automotive industry with new technologies and complex vehicles.
• Issues with aftermarket parts and software compatibility (00:32:27) Conversation about the problems caused by aftermarket parts, specifically a fuel pump driver module that was designed to clear fuel pump relay trouble codes but ended up causing issues with memory and code deletion.
• The terminating resistor issue (00:33:09) Discussion about a recurring issue with terminating resistors in certain vehicles and the frustration of dealing with it.
• Misnomers in the industry (00:33:47) Exploration of the miscommunication and mismanagement of parts recalls and the blame game between manufacturers and suppliers.
• Tracking parts and communication (00:34:41) Suggestion for an app or system to track parts, receive recall alerts, and provide feedback to manufacturers for better communication and product improvement.
• The frustrations of using incorrect parts (00:39:59) Discussion about the challenges of using the wrong parts in car repairs and the lack of proper reporting to manufacturers.
• The importance of honest parts returns and bug reporting (00:41:13) Emphasis on the need for technicians to be honest when returning defective parts and reporting bugs in scan tools to manufacturers.
• The benefits of journaling and documenting experiences (00:45:01) The value of journaling and documenting experiences to avoid repeating the same mistakes and to track personal growth as a technician.
• The challenges of relying on one scan tool (00:46:27) Discussion about the disadvantages of having only one scan tool in the shop and the potential issues it can cause.
• Issues with snap-on scan tools misreporting codes (00:47:32) Exploration of a specific problem with snap-on scan tools misreporting force motor codes for ABS systems in older General Motors vehicles.
• The frustration of dealing with unresolved issues and lack of support (00:48:19) Conversation about the frustration of encountering known issues with scan tools and not receiving timely updates or patches to fix them.
• The challenges of rewriting your mental code (00:52:33) Discussion on the difficulties of changing thought patterns and coping mechanisms in the face of mental health issues.
• The future of automotive technology (00:54:10) Exploration of the upcoming changes in the automotive industry, including the potential elimination of ICE engines and the introduction of new technologies like variable valve timing and exhaust after treatment.
• The importance of networking for emotional support (00:59:16) Recognition of the value of networking in providing a space for venting and emotional support during times of frustration and despair in the automotive industry.
• Being stuck in a rut (01:00:18) Exploration of the feeling of being stuck in a rut and the value of having someone to bounce ideas off of and understand that others have experienced similar struggles.
• Learning from mistakes in the industry (01:01:10) Conversation about the importance of sharing mistakes and learning experiences in the automotive industry, and how it humanizes the industry and helps everyone to learn and grow.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow explores the significance of leaving a legacy and acknowledging the contributions of others in our industry. He highlights the expertise of his friend Tommy Oliva in module cloning and programming and emphasizes the importance of giving credit to mentors and references. Matt draws inspiration from the entertainment industry, particularly actor Bill Hader, who credits his colleagues for their contributions. He believes adopting this practice can foster collaboration and improvement in the automotive industry.

Show Notes

• Legacy and Impact (00:01:19) Discussion on the legacy and the importance of leaving a positive impression on others.
• Crediting Sources (00:02:37) Exploration of the lack of credit given in the automotive industry and the need to acknowledge and reference sources of knowledge.
• Changing Cultural Practices (00:08:03) Examining the idea of giving credit where credit is due in the industry and the potential benefits it can bring to individuals and the industry as a whole.
• The Interconnectedness of Knowledge in the Automotive Profession (00:14:16) Discussing the vast amount of knowledge in the automotive field and how it builds upon previous technologies and contributions.

The episode is sponsored by NAPA Autotech Training, which offers virtual technical classes to enhance technicians' skills.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/

Matt Fanslow and Andrew Gonyou discuss ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and the process of calibrating them in vehicles. They cover different types of ADAS systems, calibration methods, the equipment needed and the importance of having accurate information and documentation for ADAS calibrations. They also touch on the risks and considerations of using aftermarket tools. Remember, the key to success in ADAS calibrations lies in education, documentation, and adherence to procedures. Stay informed and stay ahead of the curve.

• The different types of ADAS systems (00:01:38) Explanation of various ADAS systems such as adaptive cruise control, parking aid, blind spot monitoring, and front cross traffic.
• Static and dynamic calibrations (00:03:42) Explanation of the two types of calibrations used for ADAS systems: static and dynamic
• The need for calibration after wheel alignment (00:08:22) Discussion on the use of Hunter Net to determine if a car needs calibration after a wheel alignment.
• Informing customers about calibration costs (00:09:29) Explaining the importance of informing customers about the additional cost of calibration after a wheel alignment.
• Finding a suitable space for calibrations (00:13:04) Recommendations for having a dedicated space with enough room and suitable lighting for ADAS calibrations.
• Preference for OE or Aftermarket (00:19:20) Exploration of the pros and cons of using OE or aftermarket calibration systems and the potential risks involved.
• The Aftermarket Tools and Factory Procedures (00:25:10) Discussion on the use of aftermarket tools in ADAS calibrations and the potential risks involved.
• Comparing Aftermarket and Factory Procedures (00:26:34) Exploration of the similarities and differences between aftermarket and factory calibration procedures.
• The importance of documentation (00:33:36) Discussion on the significance of documenting the calibration process and having a copy of the report for both the customer and the collision shop.
• Issues with aftermarket glass (00:37:08) Exploration of the challenges faced when calibrating ADAS systems with aftermarket glass and the need for OE glass to ensure successful calibrations.
• Resources for ADAS calibrations (00:40:16) Mention of the MAXISYSADAS.COM website as a resource for determining calibration requirements and the use of ADAS Think, a system that helps identify necessary calibrations based on collision shop estimates.
• The importance of ADAS calibrations (00:42:17) Discussion on the financial benefits and risk mitigation for collision shops and the need for due diligence in calibrating ADAS systems.
• Resources for ADAS calibration training (00:44:47) Recommendations for online training, Facebook groups, and tool manufacturers' videos as valuable resources for learning about ADAS calibration.
• The future of ADAS calibrations (00:46:59) Considerations for a dedicated space, the shift from static to dynamic calibrations, and the potential impact of increasing competition on profitability.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AUTOTECH napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Collin Draker discusses his YouTube channel and the issues he has faced in the automotive industry. He also discusses the flat rate pay system, the lack of quality control in certifications, and the need for better training and compensation for technicians. 

• The rise of Collin Draker's YouTube channel (00:00:12) Collin Draker discusses his YouTube channel and the various automotive-related content he creates.
• Collin's frustration with the automotive industry (00:01:45) Collin explains why he made a video expressing his dissatisfaction with the industry and the response it received.
• The issues with the flat rate pay system (00:03:47) Collin discusses the challenges and stress caused by the flat rate pay system in the automotive industry.
• Issues with flat rate system (00:07:32) Exploration of the negative impact of the flat rate system on technicians and the overall culture in the automotive industry.
• Lack of career progression in auto repair (00:11:09) Concerns about the lack of a clear career path and proper training for technicians in the auto repair industry.
• Certifications and Apprenticeships (00:13:18) Discussion on the value and flaws of trade school certifications and apprenticeships in the automotive industry.
• ASE Certification and its Limitations (00:14:47) Exploration of the voluntary nature of ASE certification and how it may not always be valued or required by shops.
• Lack of Integrity and Quantity over Quality (00:17:15) Concerns about the lack of integrity in the trade, prioritization of quantity over quality, and the impact on technicians' job security.
• The issue of paying technicians to attend training (00:21:03) Discussion on whether technicians are being paid to attend training and the importance of incentivizing them.
• The debate on training occurring during work or personal time (00:23:19) Exploration of whether training should be done during work hours or if it's reasonable to expect technicians to spend personal time on it.
• The perfect pay structure (00:28:30) Discussion on the ideal pay structure for mechanics, including the preference for a salary with a production bonus.
• Tool reimbursement program (00:30:23) Exploring the idea of a tool reimbursement program where the shop pays for the mechanic's tools, with considerations for ownership and care.
• Maximizing expendable income (00:34:27) Considering compensation packages that maximize employees' expendable income, including the potential benefits of a tool allowance.
• The cost of scan tools and programming (00:35:41) Discussion about the expenses of scan tools and programming in the automotive industry, including the challenges faced by independent shops.
• The importance of tool allowances (00:38:39) Exploration of the benefits of tool allowances provided by employers and how it can alleviate financial strain on technicians.
• Compensation for training apprentices (00:42:59) Consideration of the need for additional pay incentives for technicians who are asked to train and mentor apprentices, taking into account the impact on productivity and the shop's investment.
• The shop's investment (00:43:36) Discussion on whether the shop or the employees should invest in training new technicians.
• Technician taking a loss (00:44:28) Exploring the idea of the technician sacrificing productivity and taking a loss in order to help the business in the long run.
• Getting out of the automotive industry (00:47:10) The challenges and difficulties of trying to transition out of the automotive industry into a different field.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AUTOTECH napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network

Matt Fanslow discusses his concerns about relying too heavily on databases and artificial intelligence in automotive diagnostics. He emphasizes the potential long-term repercussions of this reliance on critical thinking skills and reasoning. He also brings up the issue of flat rate pay and how it can affect diagnostic work. He also mentions the challenges when a database lacks information on newer cars or technologies. This episode is a reminder of the importance of maintaining a balance between utilizing technology and preserving our critical thinking skills in the automotive industry.

• The dangers of relying on databases and artificial intelligence (00:00:12) Matt discusses his concerns about relying too heavily on databases and artificial intelligence in automotive diagnostics and the potential long-term repercussions of this reliance on critical thinking skills and reasoning.
• Issues with flat rate pay and diagnostic work (00:01:22) Matt talks about the flaws of flat rate pay and how it can affect diagnostic work.
• The example of misdiagnosing a Chrysler vehicle issue (00:05:19) Matt gives an example of a Chrysler vehicle issue, highlighting the importance of developing diagnostic skills instead of solely relying on databases.
• The Potential Repercussions of Database Reliance (00:09:54) The potential long-term repercussions of relying on databases and not developing diagnostic skills.
• The Limitations of Databases and Artificial Intelligence (00:10:54) The limitations of databases and artificial intelligence, using the analogy of people getting lost without GPS.
• The importance of balancing short-term gains and long-term losses (00:20:17) Matt emphasizes the need to consider the long-term consequences of relying on databases and technology and suggests taking short-term hits for long-term wins.

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AUTOTECH napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

Aftermarket Radio Network

Matt Fanslow, Bryan Pollack, Sean Tipping, and Matt Skundrich discuss their experiences as shop foremen. They also discuss the challenges of diagnosing and repairing vehicles remotely, the importance of technician training and staying updated with technology, the expectations, and responsibilities of a shop foreman, balancing efficiency and thoroughness in diagnosing and repairing vehicles, and pay structures and incentives for technicians.

Show Notes

• The challenges of remote diagnostics (00:00:48) 
• Using TeamViewer for scan tool issues (00:02:33) 
• The importance of starting over in diagnostics (00:04:17) 
• The challenges of remote assistance (00:06:51)
• Overwhelming workload (00:07:41) 
• Expectations and challenges of the shop foreman role (00:12:27)
• "Handling every single thing creates dependency" (00:14:45) 
• "Challenges with accessing service information" (00:17:18) 
• The challenges of managing a growing shop (00:21:13) 
• The need for specialized personnel in the profession (00:22:26) 
• The use of database diagnostic tools (00:24:28) 
• Remote diagnostics and troubleshooting (00:29:21) 
• The importance of leadership training (00:34:37) 
• The difference between mistakes and negligence (00:35:26) 
• The benefits of using plasma cutters (00:37:23) 
• Tool inventory control (00:43:57)
• Payment structure for shop foremen (00:49:20) Debate about the most suitable payment structure for shop foremen, including flat salary, commission on parts sold, and profit sharing.
• Flat rate payment system for technicians (00:51:05) 
• The importance of teaching and learning (00:54:23) 
• Individualized motivation and incentives (00:57:36) 
• Improving Efficiency and Productivity (01:00:43) 
• Rewarding Technicians for Performance (01:01:43) 
• The importance of empathy in the shop foreman role (01:06:55) 
• The value of treating employees better than tools and equipment (01:08:26) 
• Challenges faced by technicians and the lack of support (01:10:43) 
• The frustration of technicians (01:13:29)
• The value of expertise and honesty (01:15:11) 
• Using aftermarket tools in collision repair (01:25:43) 
• Remote diagnostics and calibration measurements (01:26:17)
• Calibration Measurements (01:27:20) 

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA AUTOTECH napaautotech.com

Email Matt: [email protected]

Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel HERE

In this week's episode of Business by the Numbers, Hunt sits down with the knowledgeable Matt Fanslow (“Diagnosing The Aftermarket A-Z” Podcast) to candidly discuss the journey of buying his boss' shop such as:

• Roadblocks in the Buying Process:

• Influence of External Parties on Behaviors and Relationships

• Personal and Financial Ramifications of Buying Your Boss' Shop: Explore the risks involved as Matt recounts his own experiences and lessons learned.

Thanks to our partners, NAPA TRACS and Promotive

Visit NAPATRACS.com and GoPromotive.com

Paar Melis and Associates – Accountants Specializing in Automotive Repair

Visit us Online : www.paarmelis.com

Email Hunt: [email protected]

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