I've had a shop for the past 12 years and it's time to upgrade some of my equipment. Where do I start?
"First, you need to look at your equipment weaknesses. What needs to be replaced, now? Is the alignment machine working properly? Are your scanners up to date? What about the air conditioning machine? You need to prioritize you needs and budget accordingly. And, before you make your first purchase, you need to see what's going to give you the biggest bang for your buck. What brand of equipment is going to service your customers the best? Not only are you going to be doing the budget math, but you are going to be comparison shopping for the best equipment, too."
I need to get either a digital battery tester or a multifunction, charging system tester for my tool box. What would you buy?
You always get the right part for the job—the first time. No need to pay for something twice, is there? Go for the multifunction, charging-system tester. While the battery tester is less money to purchase up front, the right repair is to check the entire electrical system. That's going to require the charging system tester. You won't be sorry."
Have an automotive service-related question for Pam Oakes? Email it to Tire Business reporter William Schertz at [email protected]
ASE-certified technician Pam Oakes is the owner of Pam's Motor City Auto & Tire Center, an award-winning automotive service business in Fort Myers, Fla. She also is the author of the book series Car Care for the Clueless and hosts a weekly radio talk show by the same name on CBS Radio's The Sky and CoachMeRadio. And yes, she still "turns wrenches."