Top Picks for new delivery vehicles

Fleet Manager at Raleigh sent us his pick's for the best delivery vehicles

In no order -- Nissan Versa
Yahoo USA for Nissan Versa
the Yahoo Cdn site

-- or Chev Aveo ( is it available in an automatic ?? )
Yahoo USA for Aveo
The Yahoo Cdn site
-- or the Toyota Yaris
Yahoo USA for Yaris (overview page)
the Yahoo Cdn site

-- or the Hundai Accent
Yahoo USA for Hundai Accent 3 door (overview page) . Do you think a 3 door is better than a 4 door for our operations?

Note -- Gas Mileage is only one part of the TOTAL COST TO OPERATE

EASTPENN IN DEALFOR NEWBATTERYTECHNOLOGY

The East Penn Manufacturing Co.(Lyon Station, PA) has entered into an exclusive agreement with the Furukawa Battery Co.
of Japan to introduce new battery technology in North America. This technology, called UltraBattery, will be manufactured by
East Penn. It combines an enhanced power negative electrode in a lead-acid battery. East Penn claims that this enhances the ability of the battery to accept and deliver high levels of power with low levels of electrical resistance, similar to a supercapacitor. The company says that UltraBattery is ideal for hybrid electric vehicles.

new SERVICE LINES catalogue now available

Have a look at the new service lines cat -- at the next staff meeting ( note - on the 3rd Monday for Oct and being held at Petes) bring a couple of examples in hand or on the page that you have gotten your store manager to add.

Please use the feedback form on the CQ-link for any parts that are not in our Toronto DC system and we can see if we can get them added

SAS - you impress me

The smaller flyer over on Oct 15th - has some interesting glasses ... you have to be OLDER than 45 years old to appreciate how your eye sight sucks ..... so these safety glasses are VERY handy

Come on guys -- if you are NOT showing these to your customers -- you are not doing the OLDER customer any favors -- what a tremendous idea -- and they are available in different powers --anyone who needs reading glasses knows the power setting his eyes need-- take one last shot at these while they are still on SALE

IMAGINE --if only we had someone with ENTHUSIASM

ENTHUSIASM -- what a wonderful commodity -- kind of like HUIMAN nuclear power ....

Imagine if we had someone in CARQUEST that would review and summarize the next EQUIPMENT flyer and SPOTLIGHT new items that we need to get UP on ... like this part ... SRM 5420-50 ( levels have been set for all stores -give it a day for the system to CORRECT the price to reflect the SALE PRICE )

Hay -- CARQUEST -- have someone with ENTHUSIASM go thru the next flyer and write up a summary on the HOT NEW THINGS -- make me fall off my chair with excitment .... dare you .... ( caution --- dead asses need not read this post )

rubber gloves are for more than 'playing doctor'

Just when you thought rubber gloves are for 'playing doctor' - the proctologist joke --along comes HYBRID vehicles

SRM 6418 electrical rated gloves -- I have set the level for all stores so salesmen can take out and discuss. You should run a google search and find some documentation ( and I have one in your mail slot provided by Tyler from Caruk ) on safety issues for disconnecting the battery when servicing the vehicle.

Now-- here is the GOOD PART -- look for laws that tell you you have have your gloves safety tested every 6 months --and re-date stamped. For now SAS Safety ( our line SRM ) will do this ( soon -- in the set up phase ). They will do the testing at no charge ( for now anyways )

We will ask CARQUEST if we can set up a transit program thru our stores to the DC and back to the place in Toronto for the testing to see fi we can minimize the cost of transport.

Many things will happen on this issue -- stay tuned. Salesmen --it sure sounds like the shops will need TWO SETS of gloves -- as one set could be in transit to be re-tested

ACL Dual Mass Flywheel - error -

in ACL line of AMS clutches - the pricing for Dual Mass Flywheels has been identified ( after Ryan wrote in for a HUGE price problem ). It seems the sub-line # 3 was incorrectly set up to not show the discount. I have been told by Peter McNally that this has been corrected --and yet another problem has been solved by staff who DO SOMETHING and give feedback.

Have you found a problem today --and done something to fix it ??

possible MISSING XRA links

We have 117 part numbers in our Rotor & Drum line from CARQUEST that we link to a second supplier to offer our customers a choice in quality and price. So - any time someone at CARQUEST fiddles with the description updates we worry that we LOSE our links -- so the customer and staff will KNOW KNOW there is a 2nd option. We do these links using the @ sign in the description. I have asked Ryan if he can have someone run thru the list to see what numbers need to be updated.

A side point - someone at Petes Paint added 54060 and forgot to add the @ in BDR -I corrected this when I compared every part in BDR that had an @ to every part in XRA ( think it was Petes - as no store stocks yet but someone returned some to Petes )

PWR generators

CLICK HERE for the supplier web site - ALL POWER AMERICA for the new line of PWR. The lIne code finally made it into our system. We are awaiting the next Parts Source CD and awaiting word when stock will arrive --these are the parts on the back page of the current equipment flyer ...ouch ... that hurts when we are not prepared.

Awaiting more info ....

WATER BORNE CLINIC

Petes Paint is having a water borne info night,
at Petes from 6:pm to 7:30 Oct. 07/08
P P G rep Paul Squassin will be doing the clinic
geared for painters and owners .

magazines available on line for reading

A growing number of magazines are available on line for reading. We have received Aftermarket Business for many years - some articles are good - many are of limited interest ... just like you where mining for gold -- you don't find that nugget of gold in every shovel full --so you have to train yourself to separate good useful info from the chaff or filler.


click here to read Aftermarket Business Oct 08

This magazine requires you to register - click here to see main page and follow steps and they send you an e-mail when the next issue is out. I found the Cardone ad to the most interesting for Oct 2008.

New Charity at CARQUEST

the Special Olympic's is out -- a new charity is in .... hmm ...who in the heck heard about this -- looking forward to ANYONE who can find this posted on our Cdn CARQUEST-link ( the link that sucks ). Here is whaT CHRIS ALLINOTTE tells me about the new charity ( it came up as an unrelated issue )

Chris says ..."beginning January 2008, CARQUEST's Charity of choice is the CARQUEST / WorldPAC Charitable Foundation, which supports charitable initiatives in the communities throughout North America. Teammates across North America, from both our corporate and independant stores can apply to the Foundation to receive grants to help make a difference to the charities in their area."

watch for more details

CARQUEST hats

everything you wanted to know about CARQUEST hats ....

1) are they in stock NOW -- yes ---- this is what Chris Allinotte wrote "Because Norscot only ships to the DC's in Canada, we tend to place a large stocking order twice a year when these renew. As such, we try to get enough in stock that they are available at all times. At last check - there is a lot of stock available on the two variations in the Toronto D.C."

2) what are the part #'s
SPE 7651113 CQ NAVY/KHAKI HAT
SPE 765112 ROYAL HAT

the old hat used to be IMP2003 --forgettaboutit .... the new numbers are what you need to know

Do you have hats in stock at your stores ?

Payroll

I will be doing payroll on Monday. Send up all timesheets and vacation/sick days before then. Thanks.

New lower prices on many CFI #'s

Look for many HD & industrial filter numbers to be lower - changes happened this last weekend

Please - give feedback to Greg on issues where prices are still not right ...

Options for Paying

Rhonda has made a statement stuffer to help remind customers of the options of paying their accounts with Internet or Telephone banking. If you are NOT familiar with how you can use either of these features PLEASEZZE see Rhonda or your store manager ( yep - hint - skill testing question for Oct staff meeting to be held at Petes on the THIRD monday - since Holiday is 2nd Monday )

How GOOD or BAD is your waiting room

this is a copy of what we put on the CTI blog ....

CLICK HERE
for article on the shape of waiting rooms ... are you in the good or bad ? What will it mean for your future?

POS

I have put a POS schedule in the mail slots here at D&T. Please make sure you follow them for September and October. It's fiscal year end this month!!!!!!! Any questions please call me.

dot the i - cross the T

There is always something that someone at CARQUEST forgets to do ... one might think that you could STANDARD REPETITIVE DECISIONS -- and verify the steps .... oh well - one can hope ?

Case in point -- many ( most ? ) J-Con systems are missing the line code CHT for CARQUEST hand tools - the new line that is finally arriving ( after weeks of sitting in the back corner of the warehouse as Toronto tries to sell off more of the older WSW line ) -- but guess what -- since the line code is NOT IN our computers --the parts don't get posted ... we have made Larry on the J-Con help desk aware that others will suffer the same fate and have to scramble to update.

There - our good deed of the day done - and it is still before lunch time

driver courtesy

There have been times I stumbled across a funeral procession with little warning ( like coming around a bend ) -- PLEASE -- pull over and wait -- you are driving in a truck or car with our name PLASTERED all over -- you reflect the company and by not pulling over you show disrespect for all.

Adrian in Woodstock tell so of a incident in his area - ouch.

PLEASE make sure your drivers are reminded.

lower prices on ANT 101C Anti Freeze

Check out the new LOWER prices on ANT 101C anti-freeze

I guess the QUESTION is --how did we let Toronto get away with the slow PRICE CREEP. Eventually someone complained that was heard and they vastly corrected the price creep to a more competitive level. How many more lines and parts are there like this -- well - lots. For example we are asking when the extra 43% price creep will be taken out of the line MILTON

The LINK is very slow - I mean SSSLLLLOOOOOWWWWW

Tried logging into CARQUEST link lately ? Yep -- very very very slow --they are working on it ... but ..... ( called a contact in Raleigh who really knows )

Biggler Bros & Wilson -- two sides of the same coin

Pete Heinrich noticed that Biggler Bros ( WRE in CARQUEST line code ) do not have any Generators listed --so when he looked it up in the Wilson e-cat ( remember we have the user names and passwords to do that ) and found WILSON # 92-01-3115 -- he was surprised that we had such a hard time getting the product. CARQUEST wants a WRE #. Well -- WRE doesn't have ANY generator part numbers ...

So --either WRE had better GET numbers -- or -- change the policy so we can order Wilson #'s ....

Tell Greg H of any problems like this --we call Jeff Lewicki -- VP Sales for Wilson and he sends them to us --and will try to get this problem corrected.

Chain Lifts

Wonder how large the market is for chain lifts ?

Aside from Jepson thru CARQUEST you also have Dynaline either direct or thru Auto Sense ( at the same price - BTW ) so the only issue is - do they have it --and how is freight handled. Dynelaine seems to be better priced on these items -- how can you grow the business ??

new line PWR - delayed

the line of power generators on the last page of the new tool & equipment flyer - PWR will be delayed while they get the data into the computer in Toronto - and then on to us

someone let this one slip up - will have HI PRIORITY to get in asap. We are also checking on when stock will arrive at Toronto for this

RV Anti-freeze

during the summer ( yet again ) someone in Toronto decided that we should only have the more expensive RV (plumbing) Anti-Freeze (15-384 & bigger size 15-385). The cheaper number is now back in the system with stock in Toronto ( 15-334 ).

If your customers don't know the difference they assume it is all the same - you need to stock the less expensive and perhaps the better quality - see your store manager for his feelings. If you need a lower freeze point - go better - but if you don't - your choice

sell up on pads

Click here for the entire article

In summary ...
"n fact, drivers are more likely to “trade up” for premium brands and materials, especially ceramic brake friction products, according to a recent report by Frost & Sullivan."

"It’s easier to sell a premium brake pad than it is a premium rotor, say the manufacturers we spoke with.

Lelchuk also attributes the driver’s need for less brake dust as a factor in selling premium friction materials. However, brake dust may not always be connected to the friction material. At times, “the dust you see is not pad dust but dust from the brake rotors,” he adds."

Smart Car battery group

Gary from east-penn tells us that the battery for the Smart Car is a 690MF -- make a note in your BCI paper guide

This is stocked by both Petes & D&T and has been added by Auto Barn as we type.

Gary says the battery is underneath the passenger floor --and a bit or effort is required to get to and replace.

how many more applications do we NOT HAVE in our e-cat for the smart car ???????

BATTERY changes

Effective Sept 5th there will be an assigned core for all batteries ( except motorcycle batteries ) --so the stores like Petes that were weak on doing the optional core will find the BIGGEST change.

The Core will apply to all accounts --so salesmen -- make sure you explain. The fact that East Penn is the LAST to set up a core policy should not go unnoticed. Exide and Interstate all have CORE policies. This will help eliminate a lot of fly by night battery core 'picker-uppers'


Some additional pieces of info -- 1) we can NO LONGER order batteries from East Penn - we have to order from Toronto -- so tell Greg H any battery that Toronto doesn't carry and we will make damm sure they get their act in order if they are going to eliminate our ability to order from London. East Penn has a location in Mississauga that Elsa can pick up for us.
-- 2) cores will be picked up every 2nd WEDNESDAY from all locations -- guaranteed. You will rememeber all our problems with consistent core pick up -- every 2nd Wed --starting this Wed Sept 10th

Auto Barn goes Greener

Auto Barn has ordered an oil filter collection bin. We are going to offer it to anyone has wants to recycle their old oil filters(small users).Large users can call
Safety Kleen @ 519-685-3040. I encourage you to tell your customers,large volume farmers and industry as well as auto repair shops. I did not get a call back from Direct Line as some people use them for used oil collection. I taking the the cost of this out of wages!!!!!!!!!!!

Ps It is a FREE service as we have already paid for it .50 cents at a time

Mark your calendars

The annual staff party for this winter will be at Colasantis. It will be on Saturday, November 29th.

If the following people would like an invitation to the party, I need pig $$. It's $12.00.

Brian Iles
A.J.
Andrew
Jake
Adam
Ric

keeping up to date on Catalogues ??

It is a MAJOR problem on keeping up to date with paper catalogues with CARQUEST

for instance we are still trying to figure out where the New Castle Trailer catalogue is -- talking with Peter Marki-Zay - they have sent it to Toronto DC ... but ...

also heard that the 2008 FULL LINE New Castle catalogue is in HOLDING at Toronto while the French version is made ready -- you will remember the mess on the 2007 catalogue -that we NEVER released ( but we got it thru other means )

Here is a link to get latest pdf copies -- it looks like it is just starting (only two available ?? ) but we encourage other suppliers to participate ...try it .... -- click here -- We have a link for Rad Spec cat in our Plaxo contact list

PDF copies are also available at many of the supplier web sites

In the mean time we are struggling with CARQUEST brand items - like battery chargers ( latest is 2002 ?? sounds fishy ) have a request in for updated data ... especially with Schumacher buying Midtronics battery charger division ( Midtronics still makes the testers )

Payroll

I will be doing payroll on Wednesday, August 27th. Please make sure all information is sent in before that.

Thanks.

what's new with e-cat ?

Click on the images to enlarge

Comments appreciated on Cardone cat's on distributors & "Window motor regulator kits' ( compare to Dorman ?? )

Second image shows new applications for BBB Industries ( our WRE line ) and Reman Flywheel assemblies from AMS - ACL Clutch guys )

You can see this data in J-Con by going to 8-12 and then #8 bulletin board.

WRE update

Here is an e-mail from Chris Garner on WRE line of alternators and starters .... NOTE --the UPDATED tech support ( we should continue to order special order units thru Elsa r Linda at Toronto DC - but the Winnipeg number is listed if you need extra help )

This contact data has been updated in PLAXO address book

........
Greg,

In response to your email and to help clear up any confusion on the WRE rotating Electrical line, below I am addressing the issues stated in your email to Tina Davis.

I am the VP responsible for all of CARQUEST ( US and Canada) and available to you at anytime to answer any topics pertaining to the WRE program, all my contact information is listed below.

Jeff Lewicki is my counter part at Wilson Auto Electric a division of BBB Industries. Jeff’s responsibilities primarily involve Wilson accounts and for the most part is not involved in the day to day relationship at CARQUEST.

Greg Stogren/ Specialty Sales and Marketing is the Sales Rep responsible for managing the day to day WRE topics that stem out of the Rexdale DC.

SS&M also provides regional support and the contact in your area is Glenn Hannan. Glenn’s contact information is (519) 831-2954 & glen.hannan@specialtysales.ca I suggest listing Glenn as you primary day to day contact on any WRE related issues.

Both Greg and Glenn have the resources to provide unparalled support to the WRE program and are available to you and your group on an ongoing basis.

We have established two toll free numbers for tech support and other needs involving the rotating electrical program.

Tech Support- 866-593-5566 ( 7:00AM EST – 5:00PM PST)

Special Orders for Canada-866-477-1528. This is the toll free number for our Winnipeg location and can assist you with special order needs on both WRE and Wilson part numbers. Winnipeg is equip to handle most all the interchange related topics between Wilson and WRE and can help identify exact application requirements. Unfortunately at this time the satellite Wilson locations thru out Canada do not have visibility to the WRE program. Again I may suggest going through your DC for special orders but in the event they can not satisfy your request please do not hesitate to call Winnipeg direct at the number listed. Our customer service staff at Wilson will assist you on special orders units and will utilize their distribution network to ship any units from the most strategic loction.

I would like to point out that when working with the WRE part number move cautiously, they do appear to be identical to the Lester part number but ARE NOT an exact match to the LESTER number..

I will follow up with a phone call to cover any other issues/questions you may have on the WRE line but wanted to get this email out to you in an effort to address the questions covered in your email to Tina Davis.

Thank you,

Chris Garner
BBB Industries
8410 Wolf Lake Dr. Suite 108
Bartlett, TN. 38133
(Ph) 901-937-7908
(Fax) 901-937-7629
(Cell) 901-488-4554

cut drug costs ?

Click on the image to read the article form a recent Globe & Mail article - the summary is - see if your pills come in a double strength tablet. Chances are they are very close to the same price - so if you split your pill you can save money - and save money from the total drug costs of our staff plan. See your doctor. Ask your drug store. And don't forget to split the pill. Thanks for trying to keep our yearly drug plan cost to a reasonable level.

special order BBB alt's and starters

Elsa tells me that special ordering is getting SOMEWHAT BETTER for WRE starters & alternators. She can order from Wilson warehouse in Toronto -- but sometimes they can't cross the number ( which is the BIG issue we are trying to totally erase ) and Elsa has to call you back for the application

PLEASE -- tell Greg H your success or horror stories on special ordering the WRE Biggler Bros units from the Wilson warehouse.

WSIB

Workplace Safety and Insurance Board have been going around to businesses in Windsor. Please make sure that you have the health and safety posters posted, first aid kits are up to date and that your employees know where the posters are. If you don't know what posters need to be up please ask. You can also go to the website at www.wsib.on.ca. There is also a self compliance test that you can take to see if you have complied with their regulations.

Dorman

From Ken:

I used Dorman's on-line catalogue to find a window regulator for a Dodge Durango that was not listed in e-cat or their paper catalogue. (part # 741-599). Customer could not get the part to fit. Ordered another one...same story. Happened to to see a section at the bottom of their web page labeled "Technical Product Info". Clicked on it to find that they listed a service bulletin for the part # that I was having trouble with. It explained the steps required to make the part fit properly.

what is a Pump Mounted Drive ??

well- I had to ask that question --if you knew -- are you smart or lucky :-)

See image - click to enlarge

DOR 904-104 -- just released --so we have to wait and see how long it takes to get written up and into system - typically it would be several months to go thru the steps

OEM # is 12562836. The salesmen have some MS Word attachments on different issues these GM Diesels have ...here is part ...

"Dorman® OE Solutions™ is proud to release its new Pump Mounted Driver (PMD) also sometimes refer to as a Fuel Solenoid Driver "FSD" to the aftermarket. This part is basically a computer module that controls the high pressure diesel fuel injector pump that fits 1994 to 2004 GM diesels with 6.5L engines. The Dorman PMD (part # 904-104) mounts directly to the high pressure diesel fuel pump, controlling its function. The OE PMD for this application has a nearly 100% failure rate, caused by underrated materials that are unable to handle the high underhood temperatures that the PMD is exposed to. Typical GM dealers are selling 60-80 units per year (including second and third time replacements).

Dorman’s PMD is the first replacement part available that FIXES the original cause for frequent OE failures, prolonging the life of the part. Dorman’s PMD is engineered to include higher rated electronics; vibration absorbent potting materials, solid mounted transistors, and a new fiberglass silicon heat transfer pad making the 904-104 PMD the superior choice for technicians seeking a more durable replacement for these failed OE units.

There is a remanufactured version of this same part available in the market. The remanufactured unit does not address any improvements to the part itself. In addition, the remanufactured unit is generally not readily available and usually supplied on a “return & repair” basis. Dorman’s NEW reengineered part is available August 1st, it addresses known problems with the OE unit and is priced competitively with a remanufactured unit."


************** U P D A T E -- D E C 3 0 - 2 0 0 8 ***************
guess what --part still not added to Toronto DC warehouse system --while the USA warehouses have it -- we need an account with the USA warehouses .... what lack of fundamentals ......

defective ratio's

We calculated the rough defective ratio's for the period Jan 1 thru July 17 for all customers. This is something that isn't very easy to do ( ok -- why NOT !! mister software guy ).

Questions ... Here are the actual ratio's of defects to sales for out top charge customers -- how HI is too hi?
-0.6%
-5.2%
-1.1%
-9.7%
-5.0%
-1.9%
-0.6%
-3.2%
-0.3%
-2.1%
-3.3%
-5.2%
-4.7%

ps- the highest trade account was over 12% ( ouch )
What do we do to promote common sense in defects? What does CARQUEST do to inform us on our defect ratio's ( well - you know that answer ) Defects cost everyone - too bad this isn't a profit sharing idea from CARQUEST to share the benefits from better management of this issue?

Want to know how we did it --see our sister blog ( links on the side ) and see the J-Con blog

Payroll

I will be doing payroll on Tuesday, July 29th. Please make sure all timesheets and vacation/sicks days are reported before then.

Thanks.

missing blue ceramic pads

Bob Miller from Walker Rd ( Windsor) tells is that there are MANY vehicle applications MISSING the BLUE CERAMIC applications - especially on import (both Jap & Euro)

PLEASE -- tell your key customers who use web-link that more pads may be available than show --this problem is supposed to be fixed by July 25 ... but ...

Bob was unsure how it impacted Red Ceramic sku's

area tool shows this week

you might see some extra tool reps in this week - as they pass by to do the Amhurstberg and Windsor tool show at local CARQUEST jobbers

KYB combo spring & strut

The long awaited combo KYB spring & strut assembly is coming -- but will be some time ... just to bring you up to speed ... see image .... the e-cat data is there --the parts are in the MIF -- just waiting for stock ...

what kind of RUST paint do we have ?

With EXTEND from Permatex gone --what is available ?? Lenwood from Raleigh reminds us that SEM RUST MORT is one option. Toronto stocks the qts and pints ( and with LOTS of sales from us -- we could get the Gal to be stocked )

SEM 69508 pint
SEM 69504 quart
SEM 69501 gal

click on image to see more detail. The Rust Seal is also available but is more than double the price ... ? and is special order for now.

Land n Sea Marine Parts

The Line Code LNS is ready - but not yet in our system - we have requested it be added today - should be in for start of next week.

Then we will see the sub-lines and stock level settings you see in the 2-19 report.

Toronto is stocking 72 of the most popular parts - we have a list coming.

Keystone parts in warehouse

From the start any part stocked in the warehouse didn't have the Keystone prefix ... well ...that is changing. As new parts are added to the stocking list -their prefix is being kept.

Let us know what E-CAT data you would like to see updated as a result of this-- we have requested K&N Filter as a the first update.

Your feedback is important & appreciated - call Greg H

NGK Canada is changing part numbers ?

NGK Canada is stopping it's policy of separate part numbers for popular plugs and adopting the USA stock part #.

Here are some examples so far

Line Part # >>> replaced by
NGK 1166 !NGK 5129
NGK 1176 !NGK 7022
NGK 1294 !NGK 3522
NGK 2246 !NGK 4722
NGK 2373 !NGK 4626
NGK 2823 !NGK 2923
NGK 2982 !NGK 7823
NGK 3977 !NGK 4122
NGK 4035 !NGK 4322
NGK 4044 !NGK 2023
NGK 4576 !NGK 6028
NGK 5032 !NGK 6422
NGK 5083 !NGK 4929
NGK 5210 !NGK 5110
NGK 5222 !NGK 5122
NGK 5450 !NGK 7321
NGK 5699 !NGK 3459
NGK 6078 !NGK 4177
NGK 6121 !NGK 5921
NGK 6435 !NGK 7421
NGK 6782 !NGK 6726

From Ken Niefer

ABS Sensors for Cavalier / Sunfire

Both e-cat and paper catalogues have wrong information for abs sensors for these cars. Right and left are transposed. So if someone orders a left...send them a right. Got a call this morning from Mark (I think) in Raleigh. I had submitted a feedback form about this listing and he called to let me know that they are aware of the problem and that it will take about 60 - 90 days to get it corrected.

KN

internet reading options

The art was trying to get the USA trade magazine to send us a copy and NOT charge us. Examples of success had been Aftermarket Business - but all good things come to an end. For a while we also had MOTOR (there was a Cdn Motor - not as good as the USA nameplate )

Now - you can sign up for reading thru the internet. When the current version is out you get an e-mail and a link. Not perfect BUT much better than nothing

Click on the image here to make it LARGER -do you agree on the issue of GM truck fuel pumps? There is a lot of good info out there to make us better parts people - are you doing what you need to -- to get better? Be the best you can be (to steal a slogan from someone else)

Care to share the GREAT magazines you like to read thru the internet??

click here for subscription to Aftermarket Business

what is MHSW ....

MHSW seems to creep up on us at amazing speed - by the time we heard something about it was in May and the tax starts in July - not much time. In fact an e-mail we sent to AIA in May about this was just replied to on 6-18-08 and we are using some of their links below

MHSW = Municipal Hazardous or Special Waste (MHSW) Program

Companies at the START ( like importers or manufacturers ) are required to PAY the fee - they in turn charge the next company in line - and so on - until the end consumer finally pays.

This fee is set in the 3-18 as field 18 ( see J-Con image. We will have to set the fee for any X line. All CARQUEST lines will have this set and updated from Toronto.

This fee is shown as a separate line on the invoice. The example is a Quebec invoice -- on ours it will show "SOGHU / EHC" to cover both provinces name for the similar enviro fee

Here is a summary of what is effected ....
AUTOMOTIVE FILTERS:
LESS THAN 203MM (8") $.50 per Filter
GEATER THAN 203MM (8") $1.00 per Filter

MOTOR OIL CONTAINERS: $.045/ per LITRE

SOLVENTS CONTAINERS $.196/ per LITRE

ANTIFREEZE CONTAINERS $.073/ per LITRE

PRESSURIZED CONTAINERS:
NON-REFILLABLE $.334/ per UNIT
REFILLABLE $.366/ per UNIT

SINGLE USE DRY CELL BATTERIES $.125/KG

Here are links to AIA web site for more info --- click on links to open


What YOU Need to Know about the MHSW Program
Waste Diversion Program Comes into Effect July 1st, 2008
Stewardship Ontario - Auto Sector FAQ's

We will try to find out how our customers systems need to be changed ( Mitchell1 and Lankar ) and post that on the CTI site

Tuthill Fill-Rite transfer pumps

Tuthill pumps ( they have the brand name of Fill-Rite ) offer an interesting selection of products that are well suited for our customer base.

The problem is --- we are TERRIBLE at selling this line --so how do we get better ??

Issue #1 -- the store manager should ask for ONE volunteer to learn the line - go thru the web site and pick up useful product knowledge tips ... if this gets done = tell me

Issue #2 -- click on the web site below

click here for product info sheets based upon model #

Click on the image -- from Page 19 of our current tool & equipment catalog - so you can see the links on the web site for the FR4200C series and the 1200C series pumps -- can anyone find the brochure for the hand help portable pump # FR1604 that is also on page 19 ?? If you can -- leave a comment

Christmas Party 2008

I know it seems early but we need to think about planning the Christmas Party for this year. If there are no objections I am considering booking again at Colasantis. If anyone else has a better idea or would like to give me a break this year and plan it, let me know.

Pig Money

I still have not received pig money from the following people. Please note that you are no longer egilible for the discount, you now owe $12.00.

Brian Iles
AJ
Mandy

Andrew
Jake

Greg Guyitt
Jason
Steve M

Adam
Ric

POS

There are POS calendars for the months of June and July in the managers mail slots here at D&T. Please follow these calendars for month end and the upcoming holiday.

Thanks.

Who says there is no such thing???

Hey Everyone

So I have some exciting news, please do not bring a lunch tomorrow. D & T Auto parts has won a free lunch from Quiznos thanks to 92.7 (the country radio station) Lunch will be here at 11:30 I hope everyone enjoys the food.

Thanks

Sydney

Payroll

I will be doing payroll on Wednesday, June 25th. Please make sure timesheets(filled out to the end of month) and vacation/sick days are sent in before that. Thank-you.

Land n Sea Marine Parts

Just a reminder - there is approx 12% price difference on Land n Sea between our CARQUEST and Direct accounts - so on larger items you may want to use the DIRECT account

On the other hand --for smaller items - remember the $7.50 min order charge is WAIVED on the CARQUEST account for order less than $100 ... so use CARQUEST on smaller orders.

Barry has noticed some price differences when Land n Sea sub up to Quick Silver Mercury parts --as compared to Sierra parts from CC Marine -- appreciate hearing more details from other staff ( we have asked Land n Sea for their opinion on this issue )

Seal-All Glue - why do we like you ?

Seall-All glue has been a consistent good seller for many years --and when we came ot CARQUEST in 2004 we were surprised they didn't offer it.

So -in 2007 when we found that New Castle warehouse had it in hte CHM marine line --- we where happy

Then we where sad -- as the 'crew' in Toronto has we can;t have it ... and many other items in the CHM line ( see the 2007 post - click here )

So we found it in Auto Sense warehouse --and we will buy it from them - oh Seal-All --you are one great glue ... the cheapest way to seal a gas tank leak that we know of ....
line # part #
XAS - 156 380034 BPS SMALL ADHESIVE BLISTER
XAS - 156 380133 BPL 2 OZ. ADHESIVE BLISTER

the XAS is our line code
156 is Auto Senses line code

Too bad the 'boyz' in Toronto are limiting what we can sell

FRICTION ALERT

want an easy way to PAD your count on feedback forms you send to CARQUEST?

Look up any vehicle -and do a comparison on the number of pads shown --versus the ACTUAL number of pad types available.

Mike Washington reports a 2007 Hyndai Elantra missed the BCD type (which was the one he stocked and lost the sale even though the pads were on the shelf - but didn't show in e-cat )

Bob Miller reports a 2003 Dodge mini-van doesn't show the BCD type pad ...

How many examples can you find and really pad your FEEDBACK scores ....

Here are the Month to date #'s as of Thur at 10:30 am
Joe Brown - 2
Abe Enns - 2
Barry Davidson - 1
Ryan Sheeler - 1


So you other guys ( and gals ) with NO feedback so far this month --hear is an easy way to get your name on the list.

Feedback works --

web-link routing diagram for serp belts

Did you know that customers can get serp belt routing diagrams in web-link?? See images You double click on the BLUE part # and the diagram pops up in a separate window -- PLEASEZZZE make sure our Web-link customers know this ....

compare WorldPac to CARQUEST in listings ?

Take this challenge -- look up any vehicle (unfair to make a north american -- but try it a few times )

I compared 2005 Honda Odyssey Mini Van that I drive for brakes & chassis
Brakes Chassis
WPC 39 42 skus
CQ 21* 39 skus (ignoring wheel studs & nuts )

Try the challenge and see results --let me know

WGT Euro weight series

a new thinner Euro style wheel weight is now available - typical part #'s like WGT CP010C thru ... ? With the 10 indicating the weight of the weight.

This was found on the USA Link -- hmm ... wonder why we don't get these announcements on the Cdn Link.

Numbers are in the system,

Cabin Air Filters

OK --so who has tried to find and change their cabin air filter in ANY car or truck? I tried on the 2005 Honda Mini-Van yesterday.

First step - where is it .... I googled the info and found a message board where respondents said it was on the fire wall AND/OR thru the glove box - a quick check said it can't be on the firewall

Second Step - look up the filter and see the instructions in the box ... gee - the part about removing the support arm could be bigger (old tired eyes?) .... but there are still TWO support stops on either side that are NOT mentioned on the instructions...

Third Step - ask Matt ... Matt likes the www.hastingsfilter.com web site for instructions - you need to look up their filter part # and then we found it thru google not thru their links -- but they don;t show the tabs removal. But Matt figures out the squeeze and push technique and the glove box is now hanging down out of the way

I sent a note to Dan Lewis (product manager at New Castle for cabin air filters) to suggest their improve the paper instructions and throw yet another hint at my love of WIKI's so we could have a counterman help page that key people could make suggestions and improvements ( some day I will get it --if you have never tried a WIKI -- go try wikipedia.org and google the term WIKI ).

So - lets hear about your experiences in finding and replacing cabin air filters --some are downright hard to change.

Freon Jug Cores

Sometimes even the simplest things are complicated ... take AFR R134a Freon jugs. There is a core charge on the jugs ...did you know that the core last year was $50 and this year it is $80 ?? I didn't !! Somewhere it might have been a good thing if the Toronto DC had told us to watch for this difference ... eh?

How can you tell what core is what? Read the core sticker on the jig --see the image posted with this blog entry ..it is a silver tag that identifies the core value ... Thanks to Adrian from Woodstock for sharing this with us.

There is MUCH confusion as people are crediting $80 but ONLY getting $50 from the DC ... ouch --that hurts ... be smart --avoid the pain. Sure wish we had been told in clear language before this ...

FEEDBACK RESULTS for May

How to get staff to use the feedback forms?

Auto Barn had 5 posts for the month of MAY
Petes had 1 post ( just one ??? )
D&T Auto had 19 posts for MAY ....click on images for more details

I have seen a number of e-mails going back and forth from the 'group of 19' jobbers trying to improve change -- but in this case both stores ( err... one is in Windsor and one in Woodstock -- no names to protect the guilty ...:-) both stores are weak in feedabck usage

ONE BIG issue --is the ability to get ALL STAFF to have a CQ-link sign in ...like we have done for our staff --that way you can track what staff are NOT submitting feedback data.... ( hint - if you need extra staff sign in's -- see AL HAINES ...so it would be"al dot haines at gpi dot com" ...I can;t use the actual e-mail or he might get too much spam -- or you can call the help desk 1-866 number and ask for the PC help desk ( ignore the pay stub staff number )

I have been talking with several hi ranking staff members in Raleigh --they are SIGNIFICANTLY IMPROVED the way they handle feedback requests ... the funny thing is --they are being swamped by feedback requests -- from across North America --but from what I see -they haven;t seen anything yet --once they get more exposure to feedback forms --they will be TRUELY SWAMPED .... there is lots of room for improvement for all the Ontario stores ( I called several and asked for their manager user log-in to see how many their stores where doing ...)

I have challenged all stores in the group of 19 -- our stores will beat your stores in feedback for JUNE -- lets see what happens

Cheat Sheet for ATF Fluids

I called all three stores and no one remembers the CHEAT SHEET for the variety of ATF fluids out on the market ... each store has one in plastic I would like to have posted ont he retail area ... PLEASEEZZZEEEE

Hybrid Car oil --- 0W-20 oil

Pennzoil Platinum Full Synthetic technology in a 0W20 grade for hybrid cars. Meets Japaneese service-fill recommendations for Honda, Toyota and Nissan where this grade is recommended --this is the FIRST part in Pennzoil to be stocked by Toronto DC

PZO 5062673 --all levels set for stores in Leamington & Essex

QSO 5076886

mistake made on pricing for QSO 5076886 --- watch for correction asap from Toronto

Thanks to all who gave feedback

nearly bullet proof gloves

A while back Ron Powell from Hamilton saw some black safety gloves at the BIG SHOW in Vegas and bought a bunch to sell -- we ordered some to try out and mentioned them to Kevin Morandi-Bonner in Toronto DC ...well --they have been added and are on page 39 of the new tool & equipment catalogue.

SRM 66517 ( med )
SRM 66518 ( large )
SRM 66519 ( x-large)

I have set the levels for ALL STORES for the large to try and test --set additional levels as required

Knowledge is power ... where do you stand in this battle ???

next gen cat feedback required

Any feedback on the recent improvements on Worldpac's Next Gen e-cat would be appreciated.

click here -- and give your user name and password to gain access to the thread on new e-cat

This is part of the sparsely read Jobber Message Board by Worldpac .... why poorly read -- no one promotes it -and it is on an extremely narrow focus

What do you think of the next gen e-cat .. ?

oil analysis sample bottle

well- mark this as a great secret finally exposed ... CFI 89077 ... is a Wear Check (now merging with LubriGard) bottle and mailer box -- the cost includes the lab cost to analysis and reply.

I have asked Ken at D&T to order one as a sample - your store may want to order one as a sample as well.

The Plaxo multi-store address book is updated to include this address.

This was posted ont he Cdn CARQUEST Link (original post written by Kevin Morandi-Bonner)

This is part of sub line #3 - wonder what else is in this sub line ???