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Tag: Newsletter 4th Article

  • Experts say not to worry, internal combustion engines not disappearing any time soon

    Experts say not to worry, internal combustion engines not disappearing any time soon

    Here are some takeaways from a recent webinar hosted by the editors of SAE’s Truck & Off-Highway Engineering:

    • Internal combustion engines are not going away any time soon
    • They will continue to be the prime power for key sectors of the global economy
    • Future engine designs will be heavily influenced by AI and the ecosystem of engine operation
    • New combustion strategies will deliver more efficiency and lower emissions while hybrid technology and renewable fuels will be a substantial influence

    These are the key conclusions made by several experts during a discussion in the Engine Technology Forum during the “Engine Design for the Next 20 Years”.

    Allen Schaeffer, executive director of the Engine Technology Forum was an invited panelist along with Venu Gupta, engine product strategy planner at John Deere and Mihai Dorobantu, Ph.D., director of Technology, Planning, and Government Affairs for Eaton. The webinar is now available on-demand.  

    “Over the next 20 years, advanced engine technology must continue to evolve as it is expected to remain the prime mover for key sectors of the economy,” said Schaeffer. “It will be largely influenced by artificial intelligence both in the design of the engine and in managing the task and operations of the engine within the ecosystem that it operates, that will likely include autonomous operations. We see this in some forms today, particularly in the construction sector with connected jobsites and machines feeding vast amounts of data to enable real time decision making and optimization.

    “In looking to the future, engine design will build on past progress in virtually eliminating emissions and making steady gains in engine efficiency. We can expect continued incremental improvements in efficiency through both existing and new technologies.”

    Trends of engine downsizing and improving power density as well as the use of technologies like cylinder deactivation, start/stop technology, and other strategies were discussed.

    “We expect future designs to reflect greater optimization of the engine to fit the task, aided by energy storage and electric motor assist to cover infrequent peak power requirements. We are also already seeing expanding use of new combustion strategies where gasoline engine designs mimic diesel engines as a means to achieve diesel-like efficiency but with fewer emissions,” said Schaeffer.   

    “Fuel will play a key part in influencing future engine design, with more blends of renewable fuels and other fuels like hydrogen becoming available. Future heavy-duty engine design will also continue to incorporate circular economy principles enabling their remanufacturing and associated savings in energy and raw materials. New engine design software tools will greatly facilitate this feature.

    “Finally, while engine designs have evolved substantially, the policies that govern them, such as emissions standards, have not. New paradigms must be considered; perhaps ones that focus on environmental performance of tasks and work-related activity rather than a continued singular focus on individual engine performance. Regulatory approaches should be updated to reward integration of engine-based strategies like hybrids in off-road machines that are only captured today in the on-road vehicle certification process.”

  • Almost half of cars on the road overdue for major service

    Almost half of cars on the road overdue for major service

    A recent survey by CARFAX has found that nearly half of all drivers are behind on at least one major service. CARFAX data found that roughly 41% of vehicles nationwide are overdue for some critical maintenance work.

    According to CARFAX, these “major services” include:

    • Brakes: Brake line and rotor inspections and replacements
    • Steerinng: Vehicle suspension and steering components inspection
    • Drivetrain: Transmission fluid draining and refilling
    • Engine: Coolant flush to keep the vehicle operating at a safe temperature
    • Fuel efficiency/Air onditioning: Replacement of engine air and cabin air filters

    This means that millions of vehicles may not be truly road-ready, posing a risk during peak holiday travel. On top of that, CARFAX data shows that almost 30% of cars are behind on tire rotations and nearly 20% are behind on oil changes.

    “Taking care of your vehicle pays off in both the short and long term,” said Paul Nadjarian, CARFAX’s chief product officer. “A well-maintained car lasts longer, holds its value, and costs less to own.”

  • Four State Trucks acquires East Coast Truck Parts, expands footprint

    Four State Trucks acquires East Coast Truck Parts, expands footprint

    Joplin, Missouri-based Four State Trucks earlier this month announced the acquisition of East Coast Truck Parts, a heavy-duty truck parts supplier based in Newark, New Jersey.

    Terms of the deal were nat made public.

    East Coast Truck Parts supplies much of the East Coast and has stores in Portsmouth and Manassas, Virginia.

    “This is an exciting step forward for both our companies and all of our customers,” said Bryan Martin, president of 4 State Trucks. “By combining our inventories, industry knowledge, experience and logistics networks, we’ll be poised to deliver faster shipping, a wider selection of products and services and even stronger customer support across the East Coast.”

    As a result of the acquisition, customers can expect:

    • A larger footprint reaching from the Midwest through the entire East Coast corridor.
    • Enhanced distribution capabilities and strategic reductions in delivery times.
    • Expanded inventory of aftermarket repair parts, chrome, accessories and collision repair parts for all major medium and heavy duty makes and models.
    • Shared technology, web services and customer service resources will provide consistent, reliable support nationwide

    “Teaming Up with 4 State Trucks allows us to continue to offer our past customers the next level service they deserve,” said Mike Kane, owner of East Coast Truck Parts. “Our customers will benefit immediately from greater product depth, parts availability, quick shipping, and access to one of the industry’s strongest parts networks.”

    The two companies will operate under the Four State Trucks brand, with plans to integrate all systems immediately.

    Four State Trucks is home to the biannual Guilty By Association Truck Show and well known for its Chrome Shop Mafia, which was featured in the Trick My Truck television show.

  • PA shop wins Bosch Module Shop of the Year Award

    PA shop wins Bosch Module Shop of the Year Award

    Bosch has presented Schearer’s Sales & Service, Inc. of Allentown, Pennsylvania, with the second annual Bosch Module Shop of the Year Award.

    Selected from a pool of independent repair shops across North America, Schearer’s stood out for its exceptional commitment to the automotive industry through innovation, sustainability, community involvement and the legacy it continues to build, according to a statemet from Bosch.

    The recognition is part of the Bosch Automotive Service and Maintenance Module Program, a brand loyalty and support program designed for independent repair shop owners.

    “Owner Tom Schearer and the Schearer’s Sales & Service team exemplify the future of automotive repair — driven by visionary leadership, deep community roots, and an unwavering commitment to sustainability and education,” said Todd Hertzler, North American regional president at Bosch Mobility Aftermarket. “With the Bosch Module Program, shop owners like Tom gain access to benefits specially curated to support independent repair shops in growing their businesses. This award is about celebrating shops that not only do excellent work today, but who are also helping to shape a more capable aftermarket for the future.”

    Schearer’s Sales & Service was honored with the 2025 Shop of the Year Award in recognition of its outstanding fulfillment in the following submission criteria:

    • Investment in the Future of Automotive: Schearer’s Sales & Service is investing in the future of automotive repair through the launch of ShiftPoint Training Academy, a hands-on program founded by Tom Schearer’s daughter, Samantha Schearer-Higdon, in 2025. This innovative, one-on-one personalized coaching method provides practical, real-world experience that prepares trainees to excel in today’s fast-evolving automotive industry.
    • Sustainability Efforts: Sustainability is a core part of operations at Schearer’s. Over the past few years, the shop has advanced practical environmental initiatives like recycling 100% of used oil, filters and fluids, using waste oil to heat the shop, and donating excess oil to other local shops. They’ve also achieved 99% paperless operations with digital inspections, invoices and records, significantly reducing paper and printing waste and improving overall daily operations in the shop.
    • Community Engagement and Support: Community engagement is a core part of Schearer’s mission, reflected in their fundraising and event involvement with local organizations like the Miracle League of the Lehigh Valley, the BRIDGES Foundation and Bethlehem Area Vo-Tech.
    • Building a Lasting Legacy: Since Tom and Christy Schearer made their dreams of owning a repair facility come true in 1995, Schearer’s has grown into a trusted name for high-quality, personalized service and used vehicles. Celebrating its 30th year in business, Schearer’s legacy is one of continuous growth, strong values and a dedication to providing meaningful career opportunities for automotive repair professionals.

    “A lot has changed over the years, but one thing stays the same — our commitment to taking great care of our clients through our core values of trust, quality and a personal touch,” said Tom Schearer. “Bosch has played a significant role in helping us honor this commitment, both through the support of the Module Program and the quality parts, tools and equipment it produces, all of which help us stay at the forefront of automotive repair.”

    Honorable mentions for the Shop of the Year award include the following independent repair shops:

    • Budget Brake and Muffler Abbotsford: The British Columbia-based Budget Brake and Muffler Abbotsford has continued to exemplify innovation through investing in advanced diagnostic tools and training technicians to expertly service hybrid and electric vehicles.
    • Catalpa Street Garage LLC: Catalpa Street Garage is establishing a legacy of dealership-level service in an independent, family-driven environment for the Santa Cruz, California, community through its strong commitment to customer transparency and dedication to growing both technology and in-house talent.
    • C&H Foreign Auto Repair: The Spokane, Washington-based C&H Foreign Auto Repair earned an honorable mention for its long-standing commitment to quality service, community support and a family-driven legacy that spans nearly five decades.
    • Eurotech Auto: Eurotech Auto in New Brighton, Minnesota, merges dealership-level service with independent shop values, combining cutting-edge technology, on-site technician training and community investment to set a new standard for quality and care in European auto repair.
    • SSA European Auto Repair: Based in Kingston, Massachusetts, SSA European Auto Repair earned an honorable mention for its steady growth, people-first culture and commitment to proving that integrity, training and community care can drive long-term success.

  • Big Brand expansion continues with Brothers Tire & Service acquisistion

    Big Brand expansion continues with Brothers Tire & Service acquisistion

    Big Brand Tire & Service continued its expansion efforts as it acquired Burt Brothers Tire & Service, adding nearly 30 stores to Big Brand Tire & Service’s growing footprint.

    Based in North Salt Lake, Utah, Burt Brothers Tire & Service was owned by Utah-based private equity firm Bestige Holdings.

    Headquartered in Moorpark, California Big Brand Tire & Service is owned by San Francisco, Calif.-based private equity firm Percheron Capital.

    According to a statement from Big Brand, the acquisition “meaningfully expands Big Brand’s footprint and density across the Mountain West, further strengthening its position as one of the largest and fastest-growing providers of non-discretionary automotive services in the United States.”

    Terms of the deal have not been disclosed.

    Big Brands has grown this year and last with a string of acquisitions, including:

    • Northridge Tire Pros, Tred Shed Tire Pros, Sierra Nevada Tire & Wheel, and American West Tire Pros in February
    • Reese’s Auto in Arizona in April
    • Robertson Tire and Tires To You last November
    • Tires To You, a seven-location chain in the Austin, Texas area

    Founded in 1969, Big Brand has become one of the largest and fastest-growing non-discretionary automotive service businesses in the country. Since Percheron’s investment in 2021, the company has achieved transformational growth, expanding revenue more than tenfold and profitability more than fifteenfold.

  • HD Repair Forum conference set for March 18 & 19 in Nashville

    HD Repair Forum conference set for March 18 & 19 in Nashville

    The HD Repair Forum (HDRF), a conference and organization dedicated to the heavy-duty and medium-duty collision repair, recently announced the 2026 two-day conference and networking event will take place March 18 and 19 in Nashville at the Music City Center, co-located with the American Trucking Associations’ Technology & Maintenance Council’s 2026 Annual Meeting & Transportation Technology Exhibition 

    HDRF President and co-founder Brian Nessen said, “This is the first time our event will be held in conjunction with TMC’s Annual Meeting. Based upon the feedback from our advisory board and industry leadership, the HDRF sees this as an opportunity for growth of both programs. While HDRF is supportive of all heavy-duty repair industry associations and groups, OEM involvement at TMC is particularly intriguing.”

    As a result of co-locating with TMC, HD Repair Forum attendees and supporters will have an opportunity to attend TMC’s exhibit floor as well where they will see the latest in new vehicle technology and explore additional business opportunities with leaders in the heavy-duty fleet industry.

    Jennie Lepore, HDRF Communications Director said, “The HD Repair Forum serves all stakeholders in the heavy-duty collision repair industry. We are continually seeking ways to deliver more value to the industry and our collaboration with TMC in 2026 delivers on that commitment.” 

    A schedule of events and speakers will be available by the end of 2025. Registration will open by then as well. 

    HD Repair Group offers a dedicated source of information for those involved in collision repair work for heavy-duty and medium duty/commercial vehicles.

  • Jailed diesel tech prompts bill to eliminate emissions control devices

    Jailed diesel tech prompts bill to eliminate emissions control devices

    The story of a jailed diesel technician has inspired a Wyoming senator to introduced legislation takes aim at eliminating emissions control devices on diesel engines. 

    Senator Cynthia Lummis, a Republican from Wyoming, last week introduced The Diesel Truck Liberation Act, legislation to end what she called “the Obama and Biden EPA’s war on truck owners and mechanics.”

    The bill has no co-sponsors and no companion bill in the House.

    In specific, Lummis said her proposed legislation:

    • Prohibits the federal government from requiring manufacturers to install or maintain emissions control devices or onboard diagnostic systems
    • Removes EPA authority to enforce Clean Air Act requirements related to vehicle emissions controls
    • Individuals cannot be prosecuted or sued under federal law for tampering or improving emissions equipment
    • Vacates existing prison sentences for emissions-related violations and expunges criminal and civil records related to these offenses

    Lummis said in a statement her bill was “inspired by Wyoming resident Troy Lake’s weaponized prosecution and imprisonment.” 

    Troy Lake is a 65-year-old diesel mechanic now in a Colorado federal prison after being convicted of violating EPA clean air regulations by performing numerous so called “deletes” on the diesel engines of heavy-duty truck and other vehicles. Such procedures deactivate an engine’s particulate filter that traps soot and other contaminants in diesel exhaust, and are illegal under federal law.

    Lake was convicted late last year and sentenced to a year and a day in prison and fined $52,500. His family is appealing to President Donald Trump for a pardon.

    “The Biden EPA threw Troy Lake and other mechanics in prison for keeping school buses, fire trucks, and ambulances running in cold, harsh climates,” said Lummis in a statement about the bill. “When Washington bureaucrats can make you a criminal without Congress ever voting on it, we have a huge problem. I want this overreach to end. Democrats weaponized the EPA to wage war on rural America, and we cannot let that happen again. This legislation is the first step toward justice and sanity.” 

    Troy’s case is explained in a detailed story by Clair McFarland in the Cowboy State Daily.

  • Nevada community college adds 3 new tech program certificates

    Nevada community college adds 3 new tech program certificates

    Truckee Meadows Community College (TMCC) in Reno, Nevada recently said it is strengthening its commitment to preparing students for careers as diesel and heavy equipment technicians with the introduction of three new stackable skills certificates debuting this fall.

    These additions to TMCC’s Diesel Program provide clear pathways toward certificates of achievement and ultimately an associate of applied science degree, specializing in either diesel technology or heavy equipment technology.

    This fall, TMCC introduced three new certificates the college said are designed to provide students with specialized, stackable credentials:

    • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Diesel Equipment Technician, Heavy Equipment Electrical Skills Certificate
    • Automotive Service Excellence (ASE) Diesel Equipment Technician, Heavy Equipment Hydraulics Skills Certificate
    • Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician Certificate of Achievement

    “These new certificates allow students to quickly gain targeted skills and progress step-by-step toward advanced qualifications and career growth within the diesel industry,” said Jeremy Coggin, Lead Diesel Instructor at TMCC.

    At the heart of TMCC’s Diesel Program is immersive, hands-on training in fully-equipped shops, according to the college. Coursework includes critical heavy equipment systems such as hydraulics, brakes, electrical systems, and fuel diagnostics. Instruction aligns closely with ASE certifications, ensuring graduates possess the competencies employers demand.

    “Students don’t just learn theory—they work on real equipment to master the skills their future employers expect,” Coggin explained.

    TMCC’s Diesel Program benefits from strong partnerships with local and national industry leaders. Companies like MOPAR CAP and Caterpillar provide students access to cutting-edge technologies, internships, and employment opportunities. A recent alliance with Speed of Air, a leader in clean engine technology, exemplifies TMCC’s forward-thinking approach, according to the college.

    “Our updated Heavy Equipment Maintenance Technician CoA and AAS emphasis are designed specifically to meet workforce needs,” said Coggin. “Graduates leave the program ready for high-demand roles.”

    For information, contact the Applied Technology Division .

  • 5 new Grease Monkey locations in Texas

    5 new Grease Monkey locations in Texas

    DFW Oil Change recently announced the addition of five Grease Monkey locations across North Texas.

    The newly added locations include:

    These stores previously operated as WshGuys Car Wash & Automotive.

    With this transition, the car wash operations will remain under the WashGuys brand, while the automotive and lube service centers will now operate as Grease Monkey under the ownership of DFW Oil Change.

  • Major parts supplier files for bankruptcy

    Major parts supplier files for bankruptcy

    Cleveland-based aftermarket parts supplier First Brands Group ealier this week filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy in the U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the Southern District of Texas.

    The owner of numerous national brands of parts said it has $1 billion ion assets and $10 billion in debts. It has obtained $1.1 billion in debtor in possewssion financingto continue operations during is reorganization efforts.

    Many of the brrands owned by the company are nationally-known staples in the auto repair business. They include:

    • Autolite spark plus
    • FRAM and Luber-finer filters
    • TRICO and ANCO wiper blades
    • Raybestos, Centric Parts, StopTech, and Carlson brakes
    • Carter and Airtex pumps
    • REESE, DrawTite, Bulldog, Tekonsha, and Fulton bitches and towing components
    • StrongArm lift components
    • lighting systems, wheel bearing hub assemblies and remanufactured parts

    Chief Restructuring Officer of First Brands said, “Today’s actions mark an important step toward stabilizing First Brands’ operations and securing a long-term future for the Company’s world-class portfolio of aftermarket automotive part brands. With committed funding from our key financial partners, we remain focused on supporting our employees, working with our valued suppliers, and delivering best-in-class aftermarket automotive technology for our customers globally. We are confident in the strength of First Brands’ industry-leading portfolio and the essential role we play in the automotive supply chain.”

    First Brands said in a statement its global operations are expected to continue without interruption during the chapter 11 cases, with full continuity for the Company’s international customers, partners, and employees. Importantly, the company’s international operations are not part of the court-supervised financial restructuring process, First Brands said.