If you had to start from scratch tomorrow, how would you go about tooling up in 2019?
That was the challenge and the goal of this month’s Big-Time-Boxes shop owner, John Wyatt with Performance Over Style Motorsports in Fairview, Penn. This is quite the story. Wyatt ‘gifted’ his full set of tools -- and then some -- to his friend and employer after he himself accepted a contract to serve two one-year deployments in Afghanistan. While overseas, Wyatt went about planning his next collection of tools, equipment and tool storage, with a focus on quality and U.S.-made products. Wyatt not only traded boxes and tools, but he now works in a new shop as well.
If you had to or decided to ‘start fresh’ with equipment, what would that look like? Would you look to replicate your scan tool collection or research new models that more closely align with what’s rolling into the bay? The internet in and of itself is an important tool, as it allows you to access information, training and even assistance in real-time.
If you review and reevaluate market trends where you live, this might affect your buying decisions as well. For example, you might find an opportunity to provide A/C Service when you hadn’t before, or even take on ADAS calibrations. These two services in particular have a potential for ROI, especially if the shop doing so is the only shop, or one of few places in town, with the knowledge and tools to do so.
Although your new toolset purchases would (happily) include things the power tools and socket sets, today’s shops aren’t complete without some high(er) ticket and diagnostics tools designed to communicate with today’s cars.
This year we are featuring a new column that’s all about diagnostics. ASE Master Technician Scott ‘Gonzo’ Weaver has been in the industry for quite some time, turning wrenches and teaching about new automotive technology. This month he discusses what shop owners would do well to consider when it comes to ADAS calibration equipment. Next month Gonzo will dive into TPMS. We hope this insight, combined with our regular Tool Briefing and new product sections, can help you navigate the ins and outs of new repair technology in the field, and even maybe spark some ideas for new purchases or opportunities.
Repair techniques might be getting more advanced, but it’s necessary to keep up with the way cars are designed and built, and repaired. This is true from the manufacturer down to the repair pro and also the vehicle owner/operator. We will continue to do our part by sharing with you the newest products available, and shedding light on how you can integrate them into your business.
Thanks for joining us as we turn the page on another year.
