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Author: Professional Technician Staff

  • Pete Store opens first North Carolina location; has 12 service bays

    Pete Store opens first North Carolina location; has 12 service bays

    The Pete Store, one of the largest Peterbilt dealer groups in North America, has opened a new location in Asheville, North Carolina.

    Located at 223 Amboy Rd., the 30,000-square-foot facility on a five-acre site marks the company’s first North Carolina location. It offers preventive maintenance, warranty repair, advanced diagnostics, and mobile service, supported by a comprehensive all-makes parts inventory. The new location has 12 service bays.

    “We are excited to bring The Pete Store experience to Western North Carolina,” said Greg Arscott, president of The Pete Store. “This region is home to a large and growing base of Peterbilt customers, and this investment allows us to deliver the award-winning support they deserve closer to where they operate.”

    The new location is expected to create at least 30 jobs as the company hires technicians, parts professionals, and support staff this fall, according to a statement from the company.

    The Pete Store now operates 31 locations across the eastern United States.

    Founded in 2001, The Pete Store provides sales of new and pre-owned trucks, all-makes parts, service, mobile service, body shops, financing, leasing, and rental of Peterbilt trucks.

  • Southeastern Community College   Building $22 million automotive systems facility

    Southeastern Community College Building $22 million automotive systems facility

    Responding to the economic needs of Columbus County, the Automotive Systems Technology and Truck Driver Training programs at Southeastern Community College in Whiteville, North Carolina recently broke ground for a new $22 million 22,000 square foot workforce training facility.

    “That fact that we’ve been able to bring back automotive systems and add on our truck driver training program means that we’re meeting the demands of a skilled workforce,” said SCC President Dr. Chris English. “Having this high-tech facility on campus gives us the advantage to bring additional training opportunities to this community that we haven’t had in years.” 

    Plans for the transportation STEM lab building began in 2021 with conversations between N.C. Rep. Brenden Jones and English. They discussed the forthcoming space restrictions in SCC’s current facilities and the growing number of students looking to enter an automotive systems career. English said it was easy to see the concept for a new transportation and automotive technology facility because of his background as an auto mechanic and instructor for 10 years.  

    “Working with Brenden and understanding what our needs were and where we wanted to go allowed him to see the vision and say ‘Yes. This is worthy.’ and get the funding for the project.,” English said.  

    Funding for the new construction comes from a North Carolina Office of State Budget and Management State Capital Infrastructure Fund worth $14 million and an OSBM Regional Economic Development Reserve worth $8 million. 

    “It’s very versatile with how it’s being designed,” English explained. “You’ll be able to see through the entire building because it’s modeled after the design of a European dealership. The look, the feel, the openness, the flow of it all has that European model feel to it.” 

    The new facility will feature two classrooms, a CDL lab, office and storage spaces, a breakroom, an automotive lab, a Dyno lab and a parking lot.  

    The CDL lab will come equipped with lifts to perform maintenance and inspections on SCC’s 18-wheeler trucks and become a diesel program space. The Dyno lab is an enclosed driving load simulator facility where vehicles are parked on a platform and tested without moving.  

    “In a Dyno lab like this, you can simulate road conditions and do driveability performance while it’s sitting still in the lab,” English said. “Dyno labs are used in a lot of performance shops when vehicle owners are tuning their cars. It’s really critical for us and our electric vehicle diagnostic training.” 

    For Automotive Systems Technology Instructor Johnny O’Connell, what he is looking forward to most is having a larger climate-controlled classroom and office space in the new transportation STEM lab building. He explained that students will have spacious air-conditioned lab areas that can accommodate more vehicles and training equipment.  

    “Another big thing for us is becoming ASE or Automotive Service Excellence accredited,” O’Connell said. “That’s one of the main credentials we use for certifying technicians because it’s universally accepted. What we have now would not pass inspection.” 

    The automotive lab will contain 10 vehicle lifts with eight of them being two-post lifts and two of them being drive-on lifts. O’Connell said the overall modern aesthetics of the building and equipment will assure students that they are receiving a quality automotive systems technology experience.  

    “We’re going to attract more students from surrounding counties,” said Automotive Systems Technology instructor David Higgins. “This is just a better learning environment coming to our students, and I’m hoping it will get big enough to where we have to hire more instructors.” 

    Higgins said he is looking forward to the “room for growth” in the program. With an increased lab space, Higgins said it will be an ideal spot for special meetings with industry partners. Industry partners will see that students are working with similar technology used in their shops.  

    “The new facility will be almost 10 times the size of what we have now, so that leaves us with a lot of room for growth and options,” Higgins said. “When students leave here, they will be ready for the workforce.” 

  • Ohio Peterbilt has new platform for purchasing parts, updated website

    Ohio Peterbilt has new platform for purchasing parts, updated website

     Ohio Peterbilt recently announced the launch of its new e-commerce functionality on ohiopeterbilt.com, making it easier for customers to access and purchase truck parts online.

    With over 10,000 unique part numbers and 200,000 parts in inventory, the new platform offers seamless access to inventory across all ten Ohio Peterbilt locations.

    Customers can now browse, order, and choose between free in-store pickup or direct-to-door delivery. The site serves customers not only in Ohio but also in Michigan, Indiana, Pennsylvania, Kentucky, and West Virginia, expanding Ohio Peterbilt’s reach and convenience across the Midwest.

    Ohio Peterbilt not only offers OEM Peterbilt Parts, but also a wide selection of aftermarket and all-makes parts from over 100 trusted suppliers.

    In addition to the e-commerce launch, the entire Ohio Peterbilt website has undergone a comprehensive redesign. The updated site features a modern look and feel, optimized for both mobile and desktop users, ensuring a smooth and intuitive experience whether customers are in the shop or on the go.

    “We’re incredibly excited to offer our customers a faster, easier way to get the parts they need,” said James Marshall, Parts Director at Ohio Peterbilt. “This platform reflects our commitment to innovation and customer service. Whether you’re picking up in-store or having parts delivered, we want every customer to experience the full value Ohio Peterbilt has to offer.”

    Visit ohiopeterbilt.com today to explore the new site and start shopping.

  • G2 Diesel Products Launches Direct-to-Consumer Sales of Remanufactured Diesel Injectors

    G2 Diesel Products Launches Direct-to-Consumer Sales of Remanufactured Diesel Injectors

    G2 Diesel Products, a long-time private label supplier to major diesel brands, is now offering the same industry-proven remanufactured diesel fuel injectors directly to dealers, fleet operators, repair shops, and individual buyers worldwide. 

    Since 2008, G2 has built its reputation as a trusted fuel injector remanufacturer  for brands like Volvo Trucks, Volvo Construction Equipment, Mack, Cummins, Kenworth, Paccar, and more. With every injector built in-house, tested in their own ISO 9001-certified facility, and backed by a 12-month unlimited mileage warranty, customers now get direct access to premium performance injectors — without the middleman markup. 

    “We spent over a decade supplying some of the biggest names in diesel — but the end customer never knew us,” says Dolph Pinkerman, managing partner at G2 Diesel Products. “Now, we’re offering that same top-tier quality directly to the people who count on us — with more value, faster service, and no middleman. Same injectors, same standards, better pricing, and support. Everyone wins.” 

    Available now at www.g2dieselproducts.com, the growing catalog includes top diesel engine fuel injector categories such as: 

    1. Cummins ISL | XPI Applications
    2. On-Highway Electronic Unit Injectors
    3. Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE) Common Rail Injectors
    4. Volvo Construction Equipment (VCE) Electronic Unit Injectors
    5. SMART & F2P Injectors
    6. Detroit DD15 & DD16 Injectors 
  • Massachusetts hands out $24.2 million to Technical Training Schools

    Massachusetts hands out $24.2 million to Technical Training Schools

    The Commonwealth of Massachusetts recently awarded $24.2 million in Career Technical Initiative (CTI) implementation grants to 23 school districts to train 2,490 individuals for careers in high-demand occupations within the trades, construction, and manufacturing sectors across Massachusetts.

    The CTI grant program partners with Career and Technical Education (CTE) Schools to provide adult learners, especially unemployed and underemployed individuals from underserved populations and underrepresented groups, with career training and technical skills to meet the needs of Massachusetts employers. The administration also awarded a planning grant to an organization to prepare and design future training.

    The following institutions received grants:

    • Assabet Valley Regional Vocational School District, Marlborough: $1,169,239
    • Attleboro Public Schools, Attleboro: $1,340,946 
    • Blackstone Valley Vocational Regional School District, Upton: $1,040,000  
    • City of Worcester (Worcester Public Schools), Worcester: $399,996
    • Essex North Shore Agricultural and Technical School, Hathorne: $1,400,000  
    • Franklin County Technical School, Turners Falls: $2,219,375  
    • Greater Lawrence Technical School, Andover: $1,320,000  
    • Greater New Bedford Regional Vocational Technical High School, New Bedford: $202,200
    • Keefe Regional Technical School (South Middlesex RVSD), Framingham: $575,470
    • Lynn Public Schools, Lynn: $720,000 
    • Minuteman Regional Vocational Technical School District, Lexington: $799,923
    • Montachusett Regional Vocational Technical School, Fitchburg: $970,000. 
    • Nashoba Valley Technical High School, Westford: $800,000
    • Old Colony Regional Vocational Technical High School, Rochester: $335,000
    • Pathfinder Regional Vocational Technical High School, Palmer: $730,000
    • Salem High School, Salem: $1,489,998
    • Smith Vocational and Agricultural High School, Northampton: $479,998
    • South Shore Regional School District, Hanover: $3,929,999
    • Tri-County Regional Vocational Technical High School, Franklin: $883,955
    • Upper Cape Cod Regional Technical School, Bourne: $419,996  
    • Whittier Regional Vocational Technical High School, Haverhill: $931,000   
    • Somerville Public Schools, Somerville: $50,000 to plan and prepare for the implementation of future training
  • New Holland Construction Unveils D-Series mini excavators

    New Holland Construction Unveils D-Series mini excavators

    A new era in New Holland Construction mini excavators has arrived. The new D-Series mini excavators and their first models, the E42D and E50D mini excavators are built to elevate every aspect of an excavator operator’s game on a jobsite with power, performance and comfort, according to a statement from the company.

    For this new series, New Holland Construction has brought the design and manufacturing of its excavator line fully in-house to enhance machine performance, durability and operator experience. The result is a more capable, versatile machine tailored for construction crews, landscapers, utility contractors and municipalities looking to do more with a compact framework, the company said.

    “The D-Series represents a new era for New Holland Construction excavators: Built by us, for our customers, with every detail focused on operator experience, performance and jobsite efficiency,” says Dan Kakareka, product manager for New Holland Construction North America. “This is the result of what we heard from customers and operators about what they need in this class size. A machine that works harder, handles better and keeps operators comfortable all day long.”

    Performance and Jobsite Efficiency in a Compact Frame

    Designed to maneuver across a variety of work sites and tasks, from municipal utility work to agricultural trenching to commercial landscaping, the D-Series delivers exceptional performance in tight quarters. With zero tail swing, long arm options, the choice of steel or rubber tracks, and a two-way or six-way blade with standard float function, these machines offer flexibility across industries and operating environments. The E42D and E50D models come equipped with dual auxiliary hydraulic lines and an optional third high-flow line for powering energy-intensive tools like mulchers with precise flow control through the cab’s interface.

    The D-Series is powered by a Stage V-certified FPT engine, known for its durability, low emissions and fuel-saving features like Eco Mode, auto idle and a reversible cooling fan to keep radiators clear and engines running at optimal temperatures. For contractors and operators, serviceability is a key component to consider with mini excavators. The D-Series includes a tipping cab/canopy for full hydraulic system access, as well as three large side and rear panels that offer fast access to key service points. This helps crews spend less time on maintenance and more time getting the job done.

    Each model arrives ready to run an array of attachments like hammers, compaction plates, grapples and mulchers. In addition, the units are available with factory-installed couplers, buckets and thumbs. The D-Series also comes standard with a free five-year telematics subscription, enabling remote monitoring of machine health, diagnostics and service needs.

    Elevating Operator Experience in the E42D and E50D Cab

    The cab environment is where the D-Series truly sets itself apart, according to the company. Available with a four-post ROPS/FOPS canopy or a fully enclosed cab, both configurations are packed with comfort and safety features. In the cab, operators will find a fabric pneumatic suspension seat with automatic weight control, height-adjustable armrests, LED lights, manual or automatic climate control, plus six directional vents and intuitive joystick-mounted controls that move with the seat for smoother, more precise operation over uneven terrain.

    Additional cab features include a sliding right-side window, overhead-opening front window, radio and speakers, rearview mirrors, front wiper/washer, USB and 12V charging ports and bottle holder. A seven-inch color LCD display provides real-time feedback on coolant and hydraulic oil temperatures, fuel levels, engine RPM, machine hours and DPF regeneration status. Safety-focused details include a rearview camera, control cut-out lever, manual/auto idle settings, RPM hand dial, a 2-inch seat belt, emergency exit hammer and keyed locks common to the ignition.

    “We designed the E42D and E50D to deliver every time customers fire them up, but we’re not stopping there. This is the first step in the evolution of our D-Series mini excavators. More sizes, features and power are on the way as we expand the lineup,” Kakareka says.

    The first D-Series mini excavator making a public appearance will be the E42D at the 2025 Farm Progress Show, Aug. 26-28, in Decatur, Illinois, where it will be on display in the New Holland booth (#967). Both the E42D and E50D mini excavators are commercially available now through local North America New Holland Construction dealerships. 

  • VIPAR Heavy Duty IMPACT Conference set for Oct. 19-24 in Orlando

    VIPAR Heavy Duty IMPACT Conference set for Oct. 19-24 in Orlando

    The VIPAR Heavy Duty Family of Companies announced its IMPACT Conference is scheduled for Oct. 19-24 at the JW Marriott Orlando, Grande Lakes in Orlando, Florida. The conference brings together VIPAR Heavy Duty and Power Heavy Duty distributors, supplier partners, and industry leaders for a week of connection, education, and collaboration.  

    The weeklong event will feature business and industry updates, a keynote address, annual stockholder and member meetings, educational sessions, a trade show, networking opportunities, and more than 1,500 one-to-one distributor-supplier partner meetings.

    “IMPACT is where strategic decisions are made, new opportunities emerge, partnerships are forged, and our network moves forward together,” said Chris Baer, VIPAR Heavy Duty President and CEO. “Since we last met, we’ve surpassed 1,000 distributor locations, expanded deeper into LATAM and new markets throughout the Americas, and rolled out transformative technology solutions. We are preparing for the 2025 IMPACT Conference with great optimism, momentum, and a shared commitment to shaping the future of the heavy duty aftermarket.”

    Each year, VIPAR Heavy Duty honors industry friends and their contributions to the network and aftermarket through the IMPACT Memorial Golf Tournament. This year’s beneficiary is the Automotive Aftermarket Charitable Foundation, which supports people employed in the heavy duty aftermarket industry and their families during times of hardship. VIPAR Heavy Duty entered into a new partnership with AACF earlier this year.

    Prime opportunities for networking and mentorship further elevate the conference experience, with specialized gatherings designed for professionals with shared interests, including the dynamic GenNext speed mentoring session, the Young Leaders Round Table Lunch, and the Women in Business Networking Reception.

  • Kenworth teams with Wyoming School to Launch NextTech program

    Kenworth teams with Wyoming School to Launch NextTech program

    Kenworth recently announced a new partnership with WyoTech, a premier diesel technician training school, to launch the Kenworth NextTech program, a hands-on training initiative designed to address the shortage of skilled diesel technicians.

    The program was unveiled during Kenworth Day at WyoTech in Laramie, Wyoming, which featured a ribbon-cutting ceremony, guided campus tours, the unveiling of Kenworth branded wall art, and a meet-and-greet with students and dealer representatives.

    Through this partnership, Kenworth and WyoTech aim to build a stronger, more prepared workforce of Kenworth-certified technicians, according to a statement from the two.

    “The Kenworth NextTech program will build a strong pipeline of trained technicians with hands-on experience working with Kenworth’s advanced trucks and powertrains,” said Kevin Haygood, Kenworth’s assistant general manager for sales and marketing. “Through our collaboration with WyoTech, the Kenworth NextTech program will be key to creating a sustainable workforce for our dealers and ensure exceptional service for our customers.”

    RELATED NEWS: Kenworth Essentials: A successful pipeline of entry-level technicians from education to dealership

    The Kenworth NextTech program, which is available to any enrolled WyoTech student, provides access to the same training and proprietary service tools used by Kenworth dealership technicians across North America. The new program will provide students with:

    • Free access to Kenworth Essentials dealer technician training modules (the same modules every new technician is required to complete when hired at a Kenworth dealership).
    • Enrollment in instructor-led certification courses covering Kenworth Service Systems, Kenworth Electrical Systems, and Kenworth Diagnostics
    • Kenworth trucks, equipped with PACCAR MX engines and powertrains
    • PACCAR MX engines and MX engine tool kits
    • Kenworth’s DAVIE4 diagnostic service tools and software licensing
    • A WyoTech-dedicated Kenworth program manager

    “This partnership represents everything WyoTech stands for: industry-driven training, real-world readiness, and building strong pathways into the trades,” said Kyle Morris, WyoTech’s campus president. “Securing this partnership with Kenworth is a pivotal step in giving our students direct access to the technologies and training that today’s industry demands. It’s about more than just equipment; it’s about building a future where our graduates are the top choice for employers from day one.”

    Students participating in the Kenworth NextTech program will train using real-world tools in a simulated shop environment and graduate with Kenworth certifications – better preparing them to contribute from day one at a Kenworth dealership.

  • New Ford Pro Elite Commercial Service Center Opens in Columbus, Ohio

    New Ford Pro Elite Commercial Service Center Opens in Columbus, Ohio

    Valley Automotive Group recently announced the opening of its new Ford Pro Elite Commercial Service Center in Columbus, Ohio.

    Designed to support the needs of commercial fleets of all sizes, this state-of-the-art facility brings faster turnaround, longer hours, and mobile servicing directly to businesses and municipalities in the Central Ohio region, according to the company.

    Conveniently located just off Interstate 270 between I-70 and I-71 in southwest Columbus, the new service center is built to handle Class 1–7 vehicles, including Ford and non-Ford models, gas, diesel, EVs, and commercial upfits. With 24 oversized service bays with 30,000-lb. lifts, and six mobile units serving a 75-mile radius, the launch marks a step forward in commercial service coverage for the region.

    The Columbus center is the first of two Ford Pro Elite locations that Valley Automotive Group will open nationally, joining Ford’s growing network of more than 65 Elite Service Centers across the U.S. Each center is Ford-certified, staffed with Ford-trained gas, diesel, EV and hybrid technicians, and backed by the Ford Pro Intelligence connected uptime system using connected data for fast vehicle diagnosis and resolution.

    It also offers onsite body and equipment installation and service support by partnering with Final Vehicle Solutions and Buckeye Body & Equipment.

    Future-ready and fleet-focused, the center is optimized for uptime with advanced diagnostics, mobile service, and digital tools that simplify service scheduling, fleet visibility, and preventative maintenance.

  • 2 Ford recalls cover over 368,000 vehicles

    2 Ford recalls cover over 368,000 vehicles

    Ford products are part of two National Highway Traffic Safety Administration recalls, including one covering more than 300,000 vehicles.

    Ford is recalling some 2025 Lincoln Navigator, F-150, Expedition, Bronco, and Ranger vehicles for brake issues. It applies to a total of 312,120 vehicles.

    The NHTSA said the electronic brake booster module may malfunction while driving or when the driver is using an advanced driver assistance system feature, resulting in a loss of power brake assist. An unexpected loss of power brake assist while driving can expand stopping distance and increase the risk of a crash. A loss of power brake assist while ADAS features are engaged can also result in the vehicle not braking as expected.

    The EBB module software will be updated over-the-air or by a dealer. Owner notification letters are expected to be mailed on Aug. 25.

    Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 25S77.

    The other recall of Ford vehicles applies to some 56,473 2025 F-150 hybrid vehicles equipped with a 3.5L hybrid electric powertrain.

    Reportedly, when the driver or passenger’s seat belt is not buckled and the vehicle is started, the audible warning chime may not activate.

    Dealers will update the audio control module software. Owner notification letters notifying owners of the safety risk are expected to be mailed Aug. 25. Second letters will be sent once the remedy is available.

    Owners may contact Ford customer service at 866-436-7332. Ford’s number for this recall is 25C31.

    In relaTED NEWS, International Motors is recalling some of its Class 8 trucks after discovering an issue related to the Hill Start Assist feature.

    According to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration, International is recalling more than 1,000 LT model year 2024-26 and RH model year 2025 trucks. On affected trucks, the Hill Start Assist exhaust port may become clogged with ice and debris. Consequently, the release of the service brakes may be delayed or prevented.

    NHTSA SAID brakes that are still engaged while driving increase the risk of a crash.

    Trucks affected by the recall include those with Eaton or International automated manual transmissions with electronic stability control or automatic traction control.

    Authorized dealers will relocate the hill start assist valve exhaust for free.

    Notification letters to owners of affected trucks will be sent out on Sept. 29.

    For more information, contact International customer service at 800-448-7825 with recall number 25508. NHTSA’s number for this recall is 25V501.