Mavrigian: Diagnostics Are Critical, But So Is Proper Installation

Tracking a problem that involves complex diagnostics can be challenging, to say the least. The skilled technicians who can pinpoint the root cause of an otherwise "mysterious" concern are invaluable to any shop and deserve the appropriate accolades. Once the issue has been identified, the completion of the job is often turned over to a technician who might be considered a "parts changer" or "general service tech."

The skill of the "parts changer" is nonetheless critical to the shop's success. If the "parts replacement" isn't performed correctly, all of the advanced skills of the diagnostician are for naught. Whether the required component replacement or system assembly is performed by the same specialized technician who performed the diagnosis or by a general service tech, the proper installation of a part is far from simple.

Essential Skills and Knowledge

The general service technician is tasked with skills including the proper use of precision measuring tools such as calipers, micrometers, and bore gauges; an understanding of fastener thread treatment and torque/torque-angle tightening; choosing the correct sealing material; an understanding of piston-to-valve clearances; how to reference and adhere to factory-specified clearances and tolerance ranges; choosing the correct tools for the job; and more. Granted, some diagnostic techs also perform the repair, but in some shops, the diagnostic techs may specialize in problem-solving, while the repair task is then relegated to a general service tech. In that case, while the diagnostic tech may have identified the issue, it's up to the service tech to carry out the mission.

During removal, inspection, and installation, specific procedures and often specialized tools or equipment are involved to successfully complete the job. The "parts changer" deals with disassembly and reassembly steps that often must be performed in a very specific manner. He or she must determine the best way to access the part(s) involved, which often requires removal of non-related components and/or harnesses. He or she must be well versed in tool selection, removal and installation techniques; the use of torque wrenches; angle tightening methods; skill in using and reading calipers, micrometers, and bore gauges; the knowledge required in reading and interpreting OE specifications; and much more.

Every aspect of service, no matter how "simple" it may seem, requires expert knowledge and skill. In this age of electronic system management, sometimes too little emphasis is placed on the critical role that "wrenching" plays in every aspect of service.

Respect Earned Through Excellence

Once the sometimes-difficult task of diagnosing an issue is determined, the job isn't complete. It's not a matter of "well, the hard part is done. Now just replace the part." The technician who performs the actual repair deserves the same level of respect and admiration as a highly-trained technician who might specialize in advanced electronic diagnosis. Respect is earned, not given. All techs who perform any phase of service in the shop deserve the same level of admiration as part of the team that makes the shop successful.