hammer & dolly december 2014
DESCRIPTION
Official Publication of the Washington Metropolitan Auto Body Association (WMABA)TRANSCRIPT
www.grecopublishing.com
www.wmaba.com
December 2014Volume 8, No. 12$5.95
ALSO THIS ISSUEMaryland Joins Legal Fight SOPs Made Simple SCRS at SEMA
3December 2014
4 December 2014
Cover photo by Joel Gausten
SEMA photo coverage by Alicia Figurelli and
Joel Gausten
Images © www.thinkstockphoto.com
DEPARTMENTS6 Calendar of Events
7 WMABA Meeting Notice
7 In Memory
10 Editor’s MessageJOEL GAUSTEN
30 WMABA MembershipApplication
46 Vendor CornerJOSEPH J. KENNY II
48 President’s MessageDON BEAVER
50 Advertisers Index
CONTENTS December 2014
24Tips to running a smooth collision repair operation. BY LARRY MONTANEZ III, CDA & JEFF LANGE, PE
TECHNICAL FEATURESOPs WITHIN EACH DEPARTMENT
5December 2014
14LOCAL NEWS BY JACQUELYN BAUMAN
MULTI-DISTRICT LITIGATION:THE LONG ROAD TO FREEDOM Area shops explore legal remedies to common problems.
RICK IMPALLARIA: FROM THE GARAGE TOTHE HOUSE OF DELEGATESA chat with one of WMABA's strongest supporters.
CONTENTS December 2014
22Why writing down the rules can save you trouble downthe road. BY WHITNEY CLEAVER SMITH
LEGAL PERSPECTIVECOULD YOUR BUSINESS BENEFIT FROMAN EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK?
28
COVER STORY
NEW YEAR, NEW COMMITMENT: WMABA ANNOUNCES PLANSFOR 2015 BY JORDAN HENDLER
32 SEMA 2014: BIGGER IS BETTER
18
Whether at home or in the Las Vegas Convention Center, WMABA ismaking its presence known in support of the auto body industry.
38WMABA’s Jordan Hendler joins SCRS in providing unprecedented education in Las Vegas. BY JOEL GAUSTEN
NATIONAL FEATURESCRS & WMABA EXPLORE OEMCERTIFICATIONS AT SEMA
20NATIONAL NEWS
SCENES FROM CIC
December 18, 2014PLASTIC & COMPOSITE REPAIRCoxton’s Gold Team Collision Center, Yorktown, VASECTIONING OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURESRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VA ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE DAMAGE ANALYSIS & SAFETYKing Volkswagen, Gaithersburg, MD
January 6, 2015REPLACEMENT OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURESHarrison Body Works, Richmond, VASUSPENSION SYSTEMSCambridge Auto Body, Cambridge, MD
January 7, 2015MEASURING Delcastle VoTech, Wilmington, DE
January 8, 2015ALUMINUM EXTERIOR PANEL REPAIR & REPLACEMENTRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VA
January 12, 2015ADVANCED STEERING & SUSPENSION SYSTEMSDAMAGE ANALYSISDamage Analysis Delcastle VoTech, Wilmington, DE
January 13, 2015SECTIONING OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURESHarrison Body Works, Richmond, VAPLASTIC & COMPOSITE REPAIRRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VARACK & PINION & PARALLELOGRAM STEERING SYSTEMSCambridge Auto Body, Cambridge, MD
January 14, 2015WATERBORNE PRODUCTS, SYSTEMS & APPLICATIONDelcastle VoTech, Wilmington, DERACK & PINION & PARALLELOGRAM STEERING SYSTEMST Auto Body Inc., Alexandria, VA
January 15, 2015WHEEL ALIGNMENT & DIAGNOSTIC ANGLESHarrison Body Works, Richmond, VASQUEEZE-TYPE RESISTANCE SPOT WELDINGRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VAADHESIVE BONDINGFrederick Co. Career & Tech, Frederick, MD www.i-car.com or
(800) 422-7872 for info
January 20, 2015MEASURINGHarrison Body Works, Richmond, VA
January 21, 2015ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE DAMAGE ANALYSIS & SAFETYRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VA SUSPENSION SYSTEMSN T Auto Body Inc., Alexandria, VA
January 22, 2015MEASURINGRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VASTRUCTURAL STRAIGHTENING STEELHarrison Body Works, Richmond, VASTEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURES, TECHNOLOGIES & REPAIRDelcastle VoTech, Wilmington, DEWHEEL ALIGNMENT & DIAGNOSTIC ANGLESCambridge Auto Body, Cambridge, MD ALUMINUM EXTERIOR PANEL REPAIR & REPLACEMENTFrederick Co. Career & Tech, Frederick, MD
January 24, 2015FORD F-150 STRUCTURAL REPAIR TRAINING COURSERefinish Solutions, Springfield, VA
January 27, 2015COSMETIC STRAIGHTENING STEELHarrison Body Works, Richmond, VA ADVANCED STEERING & SUSPENSION SYSTEMS DAMAGEANALYSISCambridge Auto Body, Cambridge, MD
January 29, 2015AUTOMOTIVE FOAMSHarrison Body Works, Richmond, VA
CALENDAR OFEVENTS
December 1, 2014STATIONARY GLASSVirginia Farm Bureau, Richmond, VA
December 2, 2014MEASURINGState Farm, Silver Spring, MDFULL-FRAME PARTIAL REPLACEMENTCambridge Auto Body, Cambridge, MD
December 4, 2014SQUEEZE-TYPE RESISTANCE SPOT WELDINGTeam Collision Center, Yorktown, VAWELDED & ADHESIVELY BONDED PANEL REPLACEMENTAutomotive Collision Technologies, Randallstown, MD
December 9, 2014STEERING & SUSPENSION DAMAGE ANALYSISManheim (Harrisonburg) Auto Auction, Harrisonburg, VASTEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURES, TECHNOLOGIES & REPAIRSouthern Collision - Norfolk Airport, Norfolk, VA STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURES, TECHNOLOGIES & REPAIRCanby Motors Collision Repair, Aberdeen, MDREPLACEMENT OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURESCambridge Auto Body, Cambridge, MD
December 10, 2014OVERVIEW OF CYCLE TIME IMPROVEMENTS FOR THE COLLISION REPAIR PROCESSRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VA
December 11, 2014FULL-FRAME PARTIAL REPLACEMENTCoxton’s Gold Team Collision Center, Yorktown, VA STEERING & SUSPENSION DAMAGE ANALYSISKunkel’s, Baltimore, MDFULL-FRAME PARTIAL REPLACEMENTFrederick Co. Career & Tech, Frederick, MDFULL-FRAME PARTIAL REPLACEMENTRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VA
December 15, 2014STEEL STRUCTURES DAMAGE ANALYSISVirginia Farm Bureau, Richmond, VA
December 16, 2014ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE DAMAGE ANALYSIS &SAFETYKeystone, Linthicum, MD SECTIONING OF STEEL UNITIZED STRUCTURESCambridge Auto Body, Cambridge, MD
December 17, 2014ALTERNATIVE FUEL VEHICLE DAMAGE ANALYSIS &SAFETYRefinish Solutions, Springfield, VA
6 December 2014
Industry training opportunitiesand don't-miss events.
December 10, 2014PREPARING FOR ALUMINUM: AN AUDI PERSPECTIVEAudi Learning Center, Ashburn, VAFor more information, visit www.wmaba.com
January 22, 2015WMABA ALUMINUM REPAIR DISCUSSION ANDMEMBERSHIP SOCIAL
Refinish Solutions, Fairfax, VAFor more information, visit www.wmaba.com or see facing page
CLASS LISTINGS
Information and updatesfrom WMABA.
NEWSLOCAL
SUBSCRIBE TO
the official publicationof the Washington Metropolitan Auto
Body Association, today!
Subscriptions are afree member benefit to all WMABA members
(Washington, DC, Marylandand VA), and $34.99 to all others for a one-year
subscription. For more information, please contact
WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendlerat (804) 789-9649 or via email [email protected].
WMABA Presents…WMABA ALUMINUM REPAIR DISCUSSIONAND MEMBERSHIP SOCIALJanuary 22, 2015 6:00pmRefinish Solutions5255A Port Royal, Springfield, VA 22031
Join WMABA members, supporters and industry representatives for an exciting evening of socializing, networking and industry information, as well as an eye-opening presentation on aluminum repair implementation in the shop!
MEMBER SOCIAL & BOARD ELECTIONSTO FOLLOW PRESENTATIONQuestions? Contact Jordan Hendler at (804) 789-9649 /[email protected] / www.wmaba.com
SAVE THE DATE!January 22, 2015
7December 2014
On September 24, the extendedWMABA family said goodbye to Michael“Travis” Gunder, who passed away at the ageof 45. Travis was the co-owner of Gunder’sAuto Center in Lakeland, FL, where heworked alongside his father, Ray (a pastWMABA presenter), his mother, Deanie, andhis sister, Jodi. The shop has received exten-sive media coverage in recent years for theirdiligent work in the legal arena to addressshort-pays and defend the rights of the colli-sion repair consumer.
A graduate of Lake Gibson High Schooland the University of Central Florida (wherehe received a degree in business manage-ment), Travis excelled in football and enjoyedstints playing with the Lakeland Lumberjacks,LGHS Braves and UCF Knights.
Travis was a proud father of twins, Grantand Grace, and was very active in their lives.He served as an assistant coach for his son's
football team, carrying on the family traditionof when Ray coached him. Travis is remem-bered by his loved ones as a compassionate,protective and loyal father, son, brother andfriend.
In addition to his parents and two chil-dren, Travis is survived by his sister, JodiGunder (Russell) Minx; girlfriend, KeishaKelly; two nephews, Joey and Tanner; grand-mother, Peggy Gunder; and numerous aunts,uncles and cousins. WMABA and Hammer &Dolly offer the Gunder family our deepestcondolences. H&D
FL REPAIRERTRAVIS GUNDERPASSES
Travis Gunder with his son Grant (front left)and nephew Joey at the Raymond JamesStadium in Tampa, Florida (home of the
Tampa Bay Buccaneers) last year.
8 December 2014
9December 2014
Rodney Bolton ([email protected]) 410-969-3100 ext. 250Mark Boudreau ([email protected]) 703-671-2402
Kevin Burt ([email protected]) 301-336-1140Bobby Wright ([email protected]) 434-767-4128
ADMINISTRATIONEXECUTIVE DIRECTORJordan Hendler ([email protected]) 804-789-9649WMABA CORPORATE OFFICEP.O. Box 3157 • Mechanicsville, VA 23116
STAFFPUBLISHER Thomas Greco
DIRECTOR OF SALES Alicia [email protected]
EDITOR Joel [email protected]
MANAGING EDITOR Jacquelyn [email protected]
ART DIRECTOR Lea [email protected]
OFFICE MANAGER Sofia [email protected]
PUBLISHED BY TGP, Inc.244 Chestnut St., Suite 202Nutley, NJ 07110973-667-6922 FAX 973-235-1963
Reproduction of any portions of this publication is specifically prohibited without written permission from the publisher. The opinions and ideas appearing in this magazine are not necessarily rep re sen ta tions of TGP Inc. orof the Washington Metropolitan Auto BodyAssociation (WMABA). Copyright © 2014Thomas Greco Publishing, Inc.
START SMALLAs I look at the pile of airline tickets, ex-
pense receipts and rental car agreements thatdefined my professional life in 2014, I marvel atjust how busy the last year was for me. I knowit’s not going too far out on a limb to say that thelast 12 months were likely pretty hectic for youas well. After all, just look around at everythingthat is happening in the industry these days.There’s insurer-mandated parts procurement,ongoing debates over the appropriate use ofaftermarket products, struggles to properly trainnew and existing technicians...the list goeson and on. Of course, there was also theenormous event that was SEMA 2014, which iscovered at length in this issue. Now that winteris here, this high level of industry activity is sureto continue well into the first part of 2015.
With so many things going on at once inthis industry, it is easy to feel overwhelmed. Ifyou want to make a difference in shaping thefuture of your field, here’s some advice: Startsmall. Even if you are unable to travel tonational events, you can probably find time toattend a WMABA gathering in your area. If youcan’t do that, you can still pay association duesthat allow the group to work on your behalf —both here and across the nation. If you’retoo busy to catch up with peers who attend-ed things like SEMA or the upcoming
Joel Gausten(973) 600-9288
MESSAGEEDITOR’S
10 December 2014
2014 WMABA OFFICERSPRESIDENT Don Beaver
[email protected] 443-539-4200 ext. 17061VICE PRESIDENT Torchy Chandler
[email protected] 410-309-2242TREASURER Mark Schaech Jr.
[email protected] 410-358-5155SECRETARY John Krauss
[email protected] 703-534-1818IMMEDIATE PAST PRESIDENT Barry Dorn
[email protected] 804-746-3928
BOARD OF DIRECTORS
NORTHEAST® Automotive Services Show in New Jersey, read up on these importantevents in Hammer & Dolly to get details on what happened. By doing these simple things,you remain connected to the bigger picture in an always-changing industry.
No matter how you do it, take the time to participate in WMABA. Be a part of theirregular events and educational seminars. Read the association’s email updates. Call a locallegislator when asked to do so. Support the collision repair field in your community. And tella friend about everything the group does. The collision repair world isn’t going to get anyquieter. Help WMABA help you through the industry craziness and achieve the success youdeserve.
You can read further insights into the value and importance of WMABA membership inour cover story on page 28. H&D
11December 2014
Conquest your Mitsubishi parts needs!
Mitsubishi now offers Genuine OEM parts through our new “Opt-OE” parts program at discounted prices. See Mitsubishi’s Ultra-Conquest parts and prices in the Optional OEM Suppliers category of popular collision estimating systems.
Ultra-Conquest Collision Parts Program Highlights:
• Discounted prices on quality new and unblemished OEM parts• Automated price and part selection in collision estimating systems• High parts availability• Delivery to most major U.S. cities within 24 hours• Available through all participating Northeastern area Mitsubishi dealers• Includes the majority of key collision components for select popular models• We can meet or beat aftermarket prices!
To find out more about Ultra-Conquest pricing contact your local Mitsubishi dealer.
For Genuine Mitsubishi parts, contact these authorized Mitsubishi Dealers.
Buy Genuine Mitsubishi Parts and get the perfect fit at the perfect price. 10% off on all parts orders when you mention this ad.
Jerry’s Mitsubishi1906 East Joppa Road
Baltimore, MD 21234
Toll Free: 800-255-0691
Direct: 410-668-2119
Fax: 410-513-0236
www.jerrysmitsubishi.com
Fitzgerald Mitsubishi1930 West Street
Annapolis, MD 21401
Direct: 410-224-4636
Fax: 410-224-4264
E-mail: [email protected]
Younger Mitsubishi1945 Dual Highway
Hagerstown, MD 21740
Direct: 800-296-1190
Fax: 301-733-5465
www.youngermitsubishi.com
Malloy Mitsubishi14655 Jefferson Davis Hwy
Woodbridge, VA 22191
Direct: 703-490-8263
Toll Free: 888-533-3400
Fax: 703-490-3864
12 December 2014
13December 2014
If you were involved in the automotive repair industry betweenFebruary and October, it is almost certain that you heard at leastsomething regarding Mississippi attorney John A. Eaves and hiscross-country crusade to gather support for his multi-district litigationagainst numerous insurers.
Beginning in July 2013 by representing MSCRA PresidentJohn Mosley (Mississippi) in an injunction against PartsTrader,Eaves has been deeply involved in the automotive repair legalarena. Although that suit did not see itself to fruition, Eaves has notceased in trying to find ways to fight the insurance industry, as hestates, “on behalf of the consumer.” After his initial case, Eavesbrought up a suit against PartsTrader in Mississippi, and it is this actthat has brought him to the attention of the collision repair industry.
On October 18, near the end of his mission and just weeksaway from his deadline to sign on plaintiffs for his case, Eavesstopped at the Double Tree Hotel in Linthicum Heights, MD to speakout to local body shops about his endeavor. Joining him in the pres-entation were Indiana Body Association President Tony Passwaterand Pennsylvania body shop owner Ron Peretta. Although presswas not allowed inside the event for legal reasons, the speakerstook the time out to sit down with Hammer & Dolly to discuss theirpresentations, as well as to talk about where they see the industryheading due to this trend of increased legal action against insurers.
“My presentation was about us, as an industry, finally beingable to tell our story,” said Passwater. “That’s what this multi-district
litigation has been able to do for us. It has given us the platform weneeded to stand together and show people that these aren’t isolatedincidents, they’re industry-wide.”
Both Passwater and Eaves believed the temperament of theroom to be positive.
“Everyone in the room was interested,” said Eaves of hispresentation. “The subjects we talk about are so critical to shops’everyday work, so the more shop owners hear about it, the morethey want to be a part of this movement that’s going on to take backcontrol of their business.”
“When you’re in there, talking to everyone, asking rhetoricalquestions and the people listening to you are either nodding theirheads - or even answering - that’s when you know this isn’tsomething affecting only one or two shops,” added Passwater. “It’sa problem for all of us.”
The theme permeating all three presentations was themulti-faceted strategy that Eaves and his team are unfolding againstthe insurance industry as whole. As examples, Passwater cited a tripto Washington DC to speak with legislators, discussions with StateAttorney Generals and the Federal Attorney General, as well as in-volvement with the public media, both industry-wide and towards theconsumer.
“Thanks to the sheer size of this thing, it is different fromanything we’ve ever done before,” Passwater explained. He notedthat, at the time of this writing, over 400 shops had already signedonto the case, as either named or unnamed plaintiffs.
“We anticipate 25-30 states signing on by our deadline of Octo-ber 30,” he said. “That's what sets this apart and diminishes the fearfactor that insurance companies think they have. When you file asuit in one state, an insurance company can focus all of their finan-cial efforts and funnel all of their budget into that case to make surethat they win. In the multi-district litigation, it’s multiple states - andwe anticipate even more states to sign on by the end of this month -all centralized in a federal court system. Insurance companies can’tintimidate us anymore.” He went on to discuss that the judge presid-ing over the case is well practiced in multi-district litigation and at thetime of this writing had discouraged a few manipulative tactics beingemployed by the insurance companies’ defense teams.
On the side of the plaintiffs is a team of 25 law firms fighting forthe rights of the collision repair industry, using legal precedents setby previous cases on short-pays, steering and antitrust. Eavesbelieves that this will create a “united national front [necessary] totake on these challenges.”
According to Passwater, this recent overwhelming trend of legalactions within the industry began with the introduction of PartsTraderin the market, citing it as the “ignition point that the industry needed
NEWSLOCAL
14 December 2014
MULTI-DISTRICT LITIGATION:THE LONG ROAD TO FREEDOM
WMABA Board Member Mark Schaech (left) stands with AttorneyJohn A. Eaves, Jr. (center) and Pennsylvania shop owner RonPeretta after an informative presentation on industry issues in thelegal arena.
The latest from WMABAmembers and supporters.
15December 2014
to finally stand up and say, ‘That’s enough!’” He described State Farm’s historyof attacking labor and Labor Rates throughout the past few decades. Becauselabor is almost 50 percent of a collision repair shop’s profit center, it is alsoalmost 50 percent of insurance companies’ costs. With PartsTrader, theyattacked another 40 percent of a shop’s profit center. While lawsuits tacklingcollision repair industry issues have always been present, never before havethey been this abundant. Now, in the last few years alone, there have been anoverwhelming amount of lawsuits occurring. RICO has been added to a classaction suit against multiple insurers, the Louisiana Attorney General is suingState Farm and a previous class action suit against State Farm regardingaftermarket parts is being revived due to questionable conduct on behalf ofState Farm and the presiding judge, just to name a few large cases. In thisclimate of legal action in the collision repair industry, it was only logical toEaves to stand up and fight for the consumer.
WMABA Board member Mark Schaech is among the people who agreewith the message that Eaves has been promoting. Schaech, who previouslyattended a similar meeting with the same speakers on September 20 inPennsylvania, brought a friend along to the meeting close to home.
“It’s really important for shops to get involved,” he said. “The gentleman Ibrought with me was blown away by the presentation. As an industry, we allknow things aren’t quite right – the environment is toxic.”
When asked why he attended the event, Schaech described feeling likehis back was against a wall.
“I don’t see any other way at this point. I feel I have no other choice,” helamented. “The compensation by insurance companies is at an all-time low. IfI want to follow every repair procedure mandated by the manufacturer, propercompensation is an absolute must. But insurers are offering us meagernumbers for work that isn’t nearly enough to cover all of the necessary OEMprocedures, provide a lifetime warranty and still make a profit, and then theygive us this ‘take it or leave it’ attitude. Because insurance companies are sobig and strong, sometimes it’s difficult for repairers to say no. Insurers havebuilt a situation where they have so much power over us. For some shops,losing a DRP program or two could mean going out of business.”
According to him, the only way to truly level the playing field is in front ofa judge and jury.
“In business you have to be proactive,” he said. “Look into the future, findout where you want to be and find a way to get there. This is our industryworking our way into the future we want to have. One free from outside con-trol.”
Schaech went on to explain the larger consequences of the currentclimate of collision repair, explaining that with the advent of upgraded technol-ogy in newer models of vehicles on the horizon, shops need to be investingmoney in both training and new equipment. However, this is impossible to do ifa shop is not turning enough of a profit.
“We’re seeing an epidemic of improper repairs,” he said. “And it’s onlygoing to get worse from here if we don’t do something to change things.”
“If you’re a body shop and you do work, you ought to get paid for thatwork,” noted Eaves. “You have the right to make a decision on what parts touse and how to make a safe and proper repair. Not only do you have the rightto do so, but for the American public you have the obligation to, so that wemay have safer cars on the roads.”
More information on Attorney Eaves and the multi-district litigation can befound at www.safecars.us or in future issues of Hammer & Dolly.H&D
BY JACQUELYN BAUMAN
16 December 2014
17December 2014
Maryland Delegate Rick Impallaria is aself-described “body man”, despite all of theoccupational changes he has experiencedthroughout the years. Thirty-eight years ago,Impallaria started in the auto repair industryat just 14 years old. He turned his passion forrepairing bikes into the start of a career byfinding employment at A&R Motors.
“I really enjoyed taking bikes apart andbeing able to put them back together again,”he says. “It was something the older kids inthe neighborhood couldn’t do.”
Four years later, at only 18 years old, heopened his own shop in Edgewood. After astint as an insurance adjuster and time spentworking in a body shop in Rochester, NY,Impallaria eventually returned to Maryland toopen up My Body Shop in Middle River. Twoyears later, the state brought a case againsthim to try to condemn his property. As a re-sult of the struggle for ownership of his ownbuilding, Impallaria became the Chairpersonfor the Citizens for Property Rights. This washis first foray into politics, but certainly wouldnot be his last.
“I got into politics around the time thatthe government tried to take my propertyfrom me,” he recalls. “It was right after 9/11,when insurance companies stopped payingall of their claims because there were somany coming in. I had jobs in my shop thatno appraiser would come and look at. Every-thing was piling up and it was just obvious tome that if I didn’t like the situation, I wouldhave to do something myself to change it.”
Two years after winning the right to keephis company in his possession, Impallariaran for a seat in the House of Delegates.Although not many people win on their firstcampaign, Impallaria was elected and be-came an official member on January 8, 2003.Because of his continued background in bothcollision repair as well as politics, Impallariais able to provide specific insight into the gapbetween repairers and legislators.
“It’s important for shops to remain activein the political process because if they don’t,insurance companies will take over evenmore control of the industry, dictating evenmore aggressively about what they can or
cannot do,” he warns. He urges shop ownerswho want to have an impact on how the in-dustry is run to stand together.
As he says, “You need to stand as aunited front. Join a trade organization and getto know your legislators firsthand. When it allcomes down to it, trade associations supportthe legislators and the legislators, in turn,support the organization. You have to stayactive in your local legislation. If you do,eventually you’ll win.”
With a history in insurance appraisal, itis reasonable to assume that Impallariawould also be able to enlighten collision re-pairers on how to better their relationshipswith insurance appraisers. However, havingworked on both sides of the spectrum, Impal-laria is adamant that the solution does notrest with repairers, but with the insurance in-dustry.
“I think the insurance industries have tohave a better respect for the independentbusiness owner,” he offers. “When it comesto working together, it seems to be a one-sided street. Shops are either doing exactlywhat it is that the insurers mandate, or they’reultimately being blacklisted by them. Even theshops that are doing everything insurancecompanies ask end up struggling becausetheir work suffers. That’s why it’s importantfor shops to get into the political arena. If in-surers aren’t going to do anything to help us,we need to help ourselves.”
Rick Impallaria continues to fight forthe rights of body shop and independentbusiness owners. He can be reached [email protected]. H&D
The latest from WMABAmembers and supporters.
NEWSLOCAL
18 December 2014
It is important to support Delegates that sup-port our industry on important issues. Dele-gate Impallaria, and others, work diligently topromote the education of other governmentofficials, and we need to help them in return.
- Jordan Hendler
Executive Director’s Thoughts
RICK IMPALLARIA:FROM TECHNICIAN TO DELEGATE
“You need to standas a united front.Join a tradeorganization andget to know yourlegislators firsthand.”
BY JACQUELYN BAUMAN
19December 2014
Awards and a change inleadership define 2014’s final CIC.
NEWSNATIONAL
20 December 2014
SCENES FROM CIC
WMABA member Kim Parson (Automotive Collision Technologies) won both the St. Gobain Body Shop Entrepreneur Award and the 2014 FenderBender Executive Award.
Randy Stabler accepts his CIC Chairman pin from Jeff Hendler.
Outgoing CIC Chair George Avery (left) with Jeff Hendler.
NABC 2014 Award of Distinction Co-Winner Chet Bourdeau (left) of Insurance Auto Auctions, Inc. Not pictured: Co-Winner Mike Startz (Albert Kemperle, Inc.).
WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendler (left) reads from Larry Montanez's October2014 Hammer & Dolly Technical Feature to stress the importance of repair training.
(See story on pg. 32 for more details.)
NABC's Chuck Sulkala (center) with Body Shop Image Award Runners Up representatives Greg Clark (on behalf of Caliber Collision - Frisco, TX) and KeithGoing (CARSTAR, on behalf of Russom's/Fort Collins North). Not pictured: Winner - 1st Ave. Auto Body (Great Falls, MT).
Paul Krauss of Craftsman Auto Body won a CIECA Outstanding Leadership Award.Paul's brother John (current WMABA secretary) accepted the honor on his behalf.
21December 2014
Employee handbooks can be very useful to WMABA memberbusinesses. They can act as a shield for employers by giving employ-ees substantial information on business policies. However, if they areimproperly drafted, they could be used by the employee as a weaponagainst the employer. You should ask a number of questions prior toadopting a handbook for your business. First, how in-depth does yourhandbook need to be? A broad handbook can lay out the most impor-tant policies, allowing for some protection in the event of an employ-ment discrimination lawsuit, but it may not be useful on a day-to-daybasis. A more detailed handbook may allow for extensive personnelguidance for managers and employees on a daily basis, but it wouldneed to be regularly updated as the environment of the workplacechanges.
Important language should be in any employee handbook, re-gardless of how detailed you decide it should be. For instance, an em-ployer must specifically set forth their anti-discrimination policy and theat-will employment status of employees. Failure to do so could resultin problems if an employee brings a lawsuit against the business. Ad-ditionally, certain language reflecting the employer’s non-discrimina-tion policy can be helpful to a business in the event of a lawsuit.Issues like raises, bonuses or insurance options may be overly de-tailed for an employee handbook, as they may be subject to frequentchange.
Other policies, although not required, might be beneficial for theemployer to clearly lay out, so as to avoid confusion amongst employ-ees - including a policy on leave. Will there be separate leave for ill-ness and vacation days? What is the procedure for requesting leave?How many days will employees be provided? Will it require a certainamount of time worked? Will employees be allowed to carry leaveover to the next calendar year? Once outlined clearly in an employee
handbook, both employers and employees can rely on a standardpolicy, leading to less internal conflict.
Some policies must be included if the business has reached acertain number of employees, like the Family and Medical Leave Act,which is a leave policy governed by federal law, in addition to acompany’s regular leave policy.
It is important that the handbook clearly lay out the most impor-tant employment policies of the workplace, as well as the policiesevery business is required by law to follow. It is important to rememberthat an employee handbook can be a tool for your business or aweapon for your employees. If you are concerned that your handbookis not as effective as it could be, or if you are interested in obtainingan employee handbook, please contact Whitney Cleaver Smith atAlexander & Cleaver at (301) 292-3300. H&D
What’s happening at the State House, inyour industry and everywhere in between.
PERSPECTIVELEGAL
COULD YOUR BUSINESS BENEFITFROM AN EMPLOYEE HANDBOOK?
BY WHITNEY CLEAVER SMITH,Attorney, The Law Officesof Alexander & Cleaver
Whitney Cleaver Smith focuses her practice inAlexander & Cleaver's Business Law and Es-tate Planning Practice Groups. In the Busi-ness Law Practice Group, she focuses herpractice on corporate governance, employ-ment, and transactions. She has assistedclients in forming new businesses and manag-ing risk. For more information, please contact Whitney CleaverSmith at [email protected] or (301) 292-3300.
Many cautionary presentations to our industry include issues related toa good employee handbook. Lawsuits are extremely costly, even whenyou’re not at fault. Taking the time to have a comprehensive handbookcan save you a lot of headaches.
- Jordan Hendler
Executive Director’s Thoughts
22 December 2014
23December 2014
FEATURETECHNICAL
SOPsWITHIN EACH DEPARTMENT
24
These key items are the most forgotten or overlooked in theteardown department:
Vehicle washed and degreasedPhotos of vehicle taken with height measurementsVehicle pre-measuredAll damaged components accounted for, including structuraland bolt-on components All parts, materials and fasteners/hardware listed (rivets, adhesives, foams, etc.)All undamaged parts wrapped/protected and securedVehicle has been blueprinted/triaged/x-rayedOEM repair procedures and information reviewed and printed Work order is attachedRadio pre-sets marked downDamage report (estimate) peer-reviewed for accuracyAC system evacuated and sealedSeat, steering wheel covers and floor mat installedAll openings masked/covered/sealedPhotos of disassembled vehicle have been taken
All parts are in and any damage has been correctedA preliminary measurement is in the systemThe OEM procedures have been reviewedTest Welds?
Yes/No MAG Yes/No MIG ALU Yes/No STRSW Yes/No MIG BRONZE
Visually Pass? Yes/No MAG Yes/No MIG ALU Yes/No STRSW Yes/No MIG BRONZE
Destructively tested? Yes/No MAG Yes/No MIG ALU Yes/No STRSW Yes/No MIG BRONZE
STRSW tips are dressed/changed? Yes/NoIs Structural Adhesive required? Yes/No
Brand ________________________________________Exp. Date ____________________________________
Is foam required? Yes/No Brand ________________________________________Exp. Date ____________________________________
Weld-through primer required? Yes/No Applied? Yes/No
Are all welds dressed? Yes/No Backsides? Yes/No
Corrosion resistance primers appliedPhotos taken
December 2014
Here are the commonly overlooked procedures for this department:
The first department after the CSR area (which will be covered in another article) is the teardown department. This is where it all begins. This is like the players meeting prior to the WorldSeries or Super Bowl. This is where the entire repair plan is set up. If prob-lems occur later during the repair process, this is most often the departmentto blame. Over the past eight years, we have worked with over 400 repairfacilities. We have seen what works, what doesn’t work, what was good andwhat was bad. We have compiled a few items from each department to en-sure the repair moves smoothly.
Vehicle repairs are becoming more and moredifficult as OEMs design and build moreelectronics into vehicles that are con-
structed from advanced materials. These vehicleswill take longer to repair due to the constructionprocesses, repair procedures and (of course)parts procurement. Unfortunately, some wouldhave you believe that vehicle repairs can becompleted quickly, which is not the case. In fact, itis the complete opposite. Vehicle repairs are nowinherently very complex and time-consuming todo properly. If all procedures are not followed,multiple frustrating issues can occur, such asdelays, re-work (re-dos), customer frustration orthe dreaded post-repair inspection that winds upnot in your favor. How do we prevent this fromhappening? It may sound hard, but it really can beas easy as we describe.
We have helped numerous shops preventmistakes during the repair process by having asystem of checks and balances, commonlyreferred to as Standard Operating Procedures(SOPs). We will cover each department to keepeveryone accountable. In this sometimes selfish,elitist and self-entitled world we live in now, wemust stop the placation of people’s feelings andstart instilling some pride and accountability intoour workforce.
The next department the vehicle generally moves to is the structural department. However, before the vehicle is moved into the repair process cycle, you must ensure that all parts have been received. No vehicle repairs should begin until all parts are there.
25December 2014
Nuts and bolts, tips and tricksfrom our resident industry experts.
BY LARRY MONTANEZ III, CDA & JEFF LANGE, PE
Confirm that all parts are in and any damage has been correctedIdentify the type of substrate and tensile strength (i.e., MS, HSS, Composite, Aluminum).Review the OEM proceduresIs structural adhesive required? Yes/No
Brand__________Exp. Date_________
Is there foam required? Yes/No Brand___________Exp. Date___________
Repair backside damage, apply corrosion resistant primers, plus topcoatsNo filler applied to mating flangesTake photos
After the structural department (or if the vehicle was a non-structural repair), the vehicle would move tothe metal department:
Let’s look at the forgotten proceduresin the prep department:
All repaired panels, new panels and areas featheredged and sanded, no peelAll repaired areas primedAll primed areas sanded properly with correct gritAll panels checked for straightness, imperfections and pinholesAll refinished areas sanded properly and no peel visibleAll plastic parts sanded properly All small parts accounted for (door handles, moldings, fuel door, etc.)Vehicle washed properly, wet (urethane-based paint) or dry (water-based paint)Undercarriage, underhood, trunk gutter, wheelwells and wheels cleanedVehicle crevices and all areas blow dried cleanAll masked areas are properly tape-affixed
Now, it is time for the vehicleto move to the prep departmentfor preparation of priming andrefinishing.
All masking removed and vehicle is blown off and tacked for any debrisVehicle checked for runs, sags, dirt, debris and imperfectionsAll jambs and recessed areas sanded, buffed and cleanedInterior blown out and vacuumedWindows cleaned, inside and outRadio pre-sets, memories and auto/express features resetTrunk/storage areas checkedAll rubber/carpet mats placed back in the vehicleAll personal belongings placed back in the vehicleCheck vehicle for any Malfunction Indicator LampsAll wheel lugs torquedAll bolts checked and tightenedBattery cables checked and tightenedVehicle test drivenWheel lugs rechecked and torqued
After the vehicle is refinished, it moves to the detail department and reassembly process.
Here are the main issues in the detail department:
continued on page 42
26 December 2014
27December 2014
MEMBER TESTIMONIALS
STORYCOVER
28 December 2014
WMABA MEMBERSHIPPROMOTION: GET YOURQUARTER BACK
There has not been a better opportunityto join WMABA in the past 10 years than rightnow. For the first quarter of 2015, the associa-tion is offering a special membership promo-tion for new members. If you’re reading this,your first benefit is already being realized:Staying up on the news in our area and be-yond. You can save $200 off an annual mem-bership ($700 regular price) or get one freequarter (a $195 value) with the first quarterpayment. Savings like this have not beenavailable in more than a decade!
Get Your Team JerseySupporting WMABA is an investment in
the future of your business and your industry.By becoming a member, you are representedin all of the places the Board or executivedirector goes. Whether at a trade show likeSEMA, assisting with the SCRS OEM Tech-nology Summit regarding certified repairs orlocally at the state capitol meeting legislatorsor testifying at a hearing, your interests – andthe interests of all repairers – are at the
NEW YEAR, NEW COMMITMENT: WMABA ANNOUNCES PLANS FOR 2015WMABA ALUMINUM REPAIR DISCUSSIONAND MEMBERSHIP SOCIAL
Join WMABA on January 22 in finding out from repairers who are already performingaluminum structural or certified repair some of the lessons they have learned, investmentsto be made and how to navigate the process to become a certified facility.
Additionally, a recap will be given from the Society of Collision Repair Specialists’“OEM Collision Technology Summit” at SEMA. Some questions that will be addressed areas follows:
How do you get into a certified program?
How are those repairers who dedicate themselves to the process differentiating themselves in the marketplace?
How do they get the return on that investment?
What are the key elements that a repairer needs to consider?
The meeting will be on January 22 from 6-8pm and will be hosted at the RefinishSolutions Training Facility, located at 5255A Port Royal in Springfield, VA. Registrationinformation is available on the WMABA website: www.wmaba.com.
Also, part of the meeting will be dedicated to WMABA’s annual Board of Directorselection and a state-of-the-industry report given by Executive Director Jordan Hendler.
H&D
The two obvious benefits of belonging toWMABA are: 1) Keeping up-to-date on indus-try events, challenges and technical changes,and 2) Networking with industry shop ownersand vendors. The not-so-obvious benefit isthat we as shop owners can unify to make achange. Being a member assures each of usthat we are not ‘the only one’ dealing withthese issues. WMABA is the only associationfocused on making this industry better for thecollision shop owners and technicians. Noother organization can make that claim. Mostof them just follow the money. Put yourmoney where it counts – join WMABA! - Bill Denny, Bill Denny’s Automotive, Inc., Havre de Grace, MD
WMABA keeps us in touch with what ishappening in our industry, from class actionlawsuits to pending legislation in our stateand the whole country. Our membership helpsus remember that we are not the only onesfacing the discouraging burdens and issuesout there. It reminds us that if we all stick to-gether we can make a change for the better.Their coverage of PartsTrader, well before ithit home, was invaluable. They even went tothe State and tried to make it unlawful for in-surance companies to require it. They areworking hard for us, on things that all bodyshop owners care deeply about, but don’thave the time to stand up and fight.- Barbara Chase, Sisk Auto Body, Owings, MD
I joined WMABA the very first year Iopened my shop. I was immediately embracedby both colleagues and mentors who pro-vided me the fellowship to know I wasn't theonly one facing the challenges before me,advice that provided clarity and confidence tomake the decisions that would guide mybusiness and a network that I could call onrepeatedly over the years I have been a mem-ber. WMABA's ability to educate the collisionrepair industry, speak on its behalf and lobbyfor issues that affect it has been - and is tothis day - the greatest value I have receivedfrom any association of which I have been amember.- Mark Boudreau, Spectrum Collision Center,Arlington, VA
forefront of WMABA’s agenda. Though repair-ers often feel competitive, the association is aplace for camaraderie and community. Here,we’re all on the same team.
Get EducatedWMABA offers issue-specific topic-driven
education throughout the year. Participation inspecial events, such as the December 10limited-seating seminar and tour at the AudiTraining Center, offer your business the bestopportunities to advance your understandingof changes within our industry.
The PlaybookThe association is your resource for all
things. Whether you have a question aboutcurrent Labor Rate data, operations, cus-tomer interaction, insurer relationships,vendor products or national news, your asso-ciation is the place to ask first. Through ournational relationships, we are able to takeissues to the foreground of places such asthe Society of Collision Repair Specialists,Collision Industry Conference or to nationalcontacts for insurers and vendors.
Locally, we research government regula-tions and oversight to make sure the repairindustry is protected from negative legislation.Represented in both Virginia and Maryland,WMABA proposes and opposes recom-mended bills that come into the legislatureduring open session. Also, we work withconsumer-related entities, government agen-cies and other related industry organizationsto ensure that the voices of the repairer andtheir customer are heard.
Many repairers take advantage of theknowledge and community that the associa-tion provides for navigating situations thatarise. A simple phone call or email cancircumvent many of our members’ issues.
Call the GameAs a member, you decide your personal
level of participation. Do you have an interestin committees that address particular issuesabout which you feel passionately? Wouldyou want to be a Board member and assist inguiding the direction of the association? Howabout even sitting on the sidelines so you canfocus on your own business? A positive an-swer to any of these questions is what we’relooking for! While WMABA would like to en-courage your spirit of volunteerism, it is solelyup to you at what level you get involved. H&D
Exciting things are in storefor your association.
29December 2014
The minimum is getting your membership.The upcoming year can start off with yourcommitment to the betterment of yourbusiness and your industry. SIGN UP TODAY!
BY JORDAN HENDLER
Save $200 Off Annual Membership or getOne Quarter Free!
30 December 2014
31December 2014
STORYCOVER
32 December 2014
From a full slate of Repairer Driven Edu-cation (RDE) seminars and an amaz-ing Poolside Reception, to the
first-ever OEM Collision Repair TechnologySummit and yet another unforgettable SkyVilla After-party, SCRS’ presence at thisyear’s SEMA Show (held November 4-7 atthe Las Vegas Convention Center) offeredattendees an incomparable experience intheir quest to move forward in an evolvingbusiness landscape. Looking back at thisspecial week from the association’s booth onSEMA 2014’s final day, SCRS ChairmanRon Reichen couldn’t help but marvel at justhow far their relationship with the show hascome in a few short years.
“Every year, it just grows,” he says.
“The efforts of the administrative Board -and certainly [Executive Director] AaronSchulenburg, [Past Chairman] Jeff Hendlerand [Administrative Assistant] Linda Atkins –have made the SCRS portion of the showbetter than it was last year and in previousyears. This year, the show just exceeded ourexpectations - from the educational programand content to the networking opportunitiesafforded at our After-party to the rollout ofour Summit. We look forward to next year.”
John Brill of Steck Manufacturing wasone of several exhibitors thrilled with whatthis year’s show had to offer.
“From our point of view, we had anoutstanding show,” he says. “They expandedthe [Collision Repair & Refinish] side
immensely this year, and there were a lot ofgreat discussions and information on alu-minum. We introduced some new conceptsat our booth this year that people are reallyexcited about. For us, it’s been a fantasticshow.”
Brill adds that he saw a clear differencebetween the 2014 show and last year’s in-stallment in how shops are preparing for alu-minum vehicles.
“There’s been a great increase in train-ing and much more discussion on the issue,which is encouraging,” he offers. “The shopsneed that information; while they’ve donesome aluminum work, many haven’t done afull vehicle. So it’s a different animal andsomething they need to learn. SEMA
SEMA 2014: BIGGER IS BETTER
Living history: Generations of SCRS Chairmen joined in the festivities at the association's RDE After-party during SEMA 2014.
A look back at an amazing week.
33December 2014
provides a great venue for that information.”“SEMA 2014 has been really good,”
shares Gina Mahan of Valspar. “We’ve hadmore traffic than we ever had in the past. Withthe two booths; we had a really good experi-ence. The [Collision Repair & Refinish] sectionwas fantastic, as was the Hot Rod section. Itwas a ton of fun. We launched our OEM ap-provals - which is big news - through Ford,Chrysler and Mazda. That’s huge for us andhuge in the industry; you hardly ever see OEMapprovals come in across the board. It’s a rarething. We were really excited that we were ableto do all of those in time for SEMA.
“The company is growing in leaps andbounds and from two years ago to today; it’s anight-and-day difference of where we are ver-sus where we were,” she continues. “We’re re-ally excited to be at SEMA, and talking aboutrefinish to the industry. Our products are topnotch; tons of people are stopping by ourbooth. It’s just really cool. And we’ve got theOEMs on our side as well. We’re so excited tobe here, and excited that we’re growing. Peo-ple are interested in what we’ve got.”
Speaking with Hammer & Dolly from hisdisplay at his fifth SEMA appearance, JosephKenny of Safety Regulation Strategies, Inc.was pleased to see the Collision Repair &Refinish side of the event expand once again.
“It’s gotten much bigger, and I think thequality of the people walking through and theexhibitors has gotten better,” offered Kenny.“It’s always nice to see what the new technolo-gies are. Walking around the show, I see somereally cool things that I can bring back whenI’m in a shop and say, ‘I just saw this out inVegas. You might want to look into it. It mightmake that job a little easier for you.’”
GM ANNOUNCES – THEN PAUSES –PARTS-PRICING PROGRAMSEMA 2014 proved to be an interesting – if somewhat confusing– week for General Motors.
At the start of the SEMA show, GM announced theDecember 1 launch of MyPriceLink.com, a new initiativedesigned to offer shops online pricing for genuine GM parts.Robert E. Wheeler, communications manager for GM’s fleet andcommercial customer care and aftersales, offered initial detailsof the program in a November 6 story in CollisionWeek:
“Effective December 1, 2014, trade and list price will show$0.00 price on collision parts on estimating systems. List pricescan be obtained via MyPriceLink.com. Additionally, those writingestimates can export an EMS file from their estimating system to the MyPriceLink pricing en-gine and in less than a minute will get a Part Price Update notification that they can importback into their system.”
On the same day, Kris Mayer, general director of GM’s wholesale dealer channel,appeared at the Collision Industry Conference (CIC) to offer additional details on the newprogram’s purpose.
“We want to make sure that we provide a competitive price upfront in the estimatingprocess; that’s all it is,” he said. “MyPriceLink is an easy process; anybody can get into theportal, and there’s no cost.”
However, Mayer acknowledged that some initial elements of the program – includingthe fact that price numbers are zeroed out on estimating systems – have been met with con-cerns from the collision repair industry.
“We realize that there’s probably some disruption and some unintended consequencesin this process,” he said. “We’ve done this with some agnostic technology partners. We knowit’s disruptive, and we’re taking that into account. [For] every single workflow disruptionwe’ve come across, we have a possible or alternative solution to minimize that [issue].”
Despite GM’s heavy public promotion of www.MyPriceLink.com during SEMA, a mes-sage on the site at press time read as follows: “General Motors will be pausing theMyPriceLink.com program based on industry feedback to enhance and streamline the work-flow for all collision industry partners.” A subsequent announcement by GM stated that thecompany expects to have the product available in the marketplace “by early 2015.”
Hammer & Dolly will continue to follow this story as it develops. H&D
General Motors’Kris Mayer
Above: Shawn Collins of 3M offered insightinto proper aluminum repair. Right: MusicianMike Ness appeared at SEMA on behalf ofRed Kap.
34 December 2014
Considering SEMA’s focus on new tech-nologies, it comes as little surprise that FordPowertrain and Collision Product MarketingManager Paul Massie used the opportunity tobetter inform repairers on the upcoming alu-minum-intensive 2015 F-150.
“Ford had a really good show this year inthe collision section at SEMA, where we con-tinued to display and communicate about theHigh-Strength, Military-Grade Aluminum Alloy2015 F-150,” he says. “It was a real plus thisyear to have collision industry trade shows tohelp get the word out to all the body shops thatwant to learn and know about the vehicleahead of its launch. We’re very confident thatour presence at SEMA, along with really goodtraffic through the booth, helped us accomplishthis goal.”
Of course, impressive vendor displayswere only a part of what made this year’sSEMA so grand. Unforgettable vehicles atSEMA included the Batmobile and Hot Wheels’
Darth Vader car, while celebrities spotted onthe SEMA floor included Social Distortionsinger/guitarist Mike Ness (representing RedKap), Playboy Playmate Pamela Horton(promoting MINI) and members of heavy metallegends Slayer (celebrating the unveiling of acar by Scion that was inspired by the band).
Away from the SEMA floor, attendees hadan opportunity to take in a three-day RepairerDriven Education schedule designed to helpthem foster greater success in business nowand in the future. The extensive list of RDEpresenters included Hammer & Dolly TechnicalWriter Larry Montanez (“Aluminum Repair Pro-cedures, Techniques and Requirements,”“Check Yourself - Departmental Quality Controlto Prevent Incorrect Repairs”), Kristen Felderof Collision Hub (“Creating Engaging Con-sumer Videos for Marketing”), legendaryspeaker and former WMABA Board memberMike Anderson (“Using Industry Statistics toYour Advantage”) and Shawn Collins of 3M(“Dispelling Common Collision Repair Myths”).Additionally, SEMA week saw the final CollisionIndustry Conference (CIC) helmed by OutgoingChairman George Avery (State Farm), whowas replaced by Incoming Chairman RandyStabler (Pride Auto Body). The all-day CIC in-cluded a special morning awards ceremony
ON THE SHOW FLOOR
Hammer & Dolly Technical WriterLarry Montanez hosted two RDE
classes during SEMA.
35December 2014
that saw WMABA members Kim Parson (Auto-motive Collision Technologies) and PaulKrauss (Craftsman Auto Body) receive specialrecognition (see page 20), while WMABAExecutive Director Jordan Hendler publiclyquoted powerful words from Montanez’sOctober 2014 Hammer & Dolly TechnicalFeature on the CIC floor at the urging ofTechnical Committee presenter Toby Chess:
It is unfortunate that in this technically ad-vanced day and age, we still have an epidemicof poor repairs and finger pointing at the insur-ance company, when in reality the problem isthe repair facility’s lack of training, educationand desire to change.
Fortunately, a genuine desire for changeand growth was exactly what fueled such asuccessful SEMA 2014. With the CollisionRepair & Refinish section of the show thestrongest it has ever been, all signs point to an
even greater journey next year. If you’ve beento the show in recent years, you know howamazing it is. If you’ve never taken that flight to
Vegas in early November, you know what to doin 2015. H&D
Mark your calendar now for SEMA 2015! Block out the week of November 2 thru 6, and getyourself involved.
Get educated by the Society of Collision Repair Specialists at their ongoing Repairer Driven Education series, which focuses on repairer-only issues and advanced vehicle technologies.
Participate in the Collision Industry Conference to learn more about how change can happen, while all industry segments come together to focus on heated topics and how to best work together to resolve them.
Go to the SEMA 2015 show, and find out about equipment, diversification, customization, training, tools and more.
Above all, enjoy your industry. This one big opportunity equates to celebrating the businessyou are in, making it better through the connections you make with associations, vendorsand other industry folks like yourself.
- Jordan Hendler
Executive Director’s Thoughts
36 December 2014
37December 2014
FEATURENATIONAL
38 December 2014
With thousands of automotive repairprofessionals taking in the 2014 SEMA Showin Las Vegas, the Society of Collision RepairSpecialists (SCRS) embraced the opportunityto offer unique educational opportunities tocollision repair shop owners and technicians.In addition to unveiling a full slate of newly-released Repairer Driven Education (RDE)classes, SCRS hosted its first-ever OEMCollision Repair Technology Summit in theNorth Hall of the Las Vegas ConventionCenter on November 5. The all-day eventoffered attendees an intriguing look into thefuture of the trade through a series of paneldiscussions and special presentations.WMABA Executive Director Jordan Hendlerappeared at the Summit to moderate “OEMCertification Development: The ProgramsBehind OEM Partnership,” a specialhour-long session that explored how OEMsstructure their certification programs, whattheir expectations are for participating shopsand how they revise these programs to fitthe needs of a changing industry. Panelistsincluded representatives from Audi of
America, Axalta Coatings Systems, Ford Cus-tomer Service Division, Assured Performance,Mercedes-Benz USA, Summit ConsultingInternational and Toyota Motor Sales USA.
Above all, the greatest takeaway of the“OEM Certification Development” discussionwas that, while there is no one-size-fits-allphilosophy when it comes to how OEMs cre-ate and maintain their certification programs,there is a very common objective of protect-ing both the vehicle brand and its consumers.For example, Audi and Mercedes-Benz cur-rently restrict the sale of certain parts to non-program shops, while Ford allows any shopto purchase its steel and aluminum parts. Ac-cording to Summit Consulting’s Bob McDon-ald, participants in Toyota’s currentdealer-only shop certification program are anaverage of 25,000 square feet and handle anaverage of 250 ROs per month, while AudiCollision Programs & Workshop Equipmentspecialist Mark Allen explained that shops inhis manufacturer’s program range fromsmall, 3,000-square-foot shops to major,80,000-square-foot facilities. Despite the
obvious differences in OEM requirements, itwas clear that any OEM-certified shop isexpected to operate with passion and acommitment to customer care – and have theproper tools, equipment and training to backit up.
“We want to make sure the customer istaken care of in each and every aspect ofvehicle ownership,” offered Mercedes-BenzUSA Collision Business Manager Benito Cid.
“We really want to focus on the qualityof the repair method,” added Rick Leos,wholesale parts and collision strategyconsultant for Toyota Motor Sales USA.
Considering that each OEM has slightlydifferent ways of certifying shops, Hendlerasked the panelists to share some thoughtson the demographics of the shops that makethe grade.
“Not all shops look the same, are thesame or are going to operate the same,” shesaid. “They are all as individual as the personwho started them...Who’s getting involved inthis?”
SCRS & WMABA ExploreOEM Certifications at SEMA
L to R: Mark Allen (Audi), Gary Scott (Axalta), Paul Massie (Ford), Scott Biggs (Assured Performance), Benito Cid (Mercedes-BenzUSA), Vic Mueller (Summit Consulting Int'l), Rick Leos (Toyota Motor Sales USA), Bob McDonald (Summit Consulting Int'l)
Education and celebration mark SCRS’SEMA 2014 experience.
39December 2014
Scott Biggs, CEO of Assured Perform-ance, replied that although he would like to see“a light in every community” regarding certifiedrepair shops, achieving such a goal is difficultconsidering “less than five percent of the entireindustry has the right tools, equipment, trainingand facility.” Additionally, Biggs stressed thatthe current programs only certify; they do notensure quality control every time a vehicle en-ters a bay.
“You can have a certified technician whocan still screw up a repair,” he said. “Just be-cause you have the thing doesn’t mean you'realways going to do it right...While [certification]doesn’t say you’re going to fix it right, it meansthat if you don’t have the right tools, equip-ment, training and facilities, you’re definitelynot going to fix it right.”
Additionally, the Summit included specialpresentations by Doug Richman (TechnicalCommittee Chairman of the Aluminum Trans-portation Group [ATG]) and David Rigg (ProjectLead with the Auto/Steel Partnership [A/SP]Advanced High-Strength Steel [AHSS]Repairability Project). Rigg outlined a numberof advancements in steel and offered insightinto the goals of the Project, while Richman(who also serves as the vice president of engi-neering and technology for Kaiser Aluminum)used statistics from the 2015 Ducker World-wide Survey of Automakers to illustrate theimpact that aluminum-intensive vehicle designsare having on the repair process. He also high-lighted safety aspects such as handling poten-tially-explosive aluminum dust and the need toadhere to each manufacturer’s repair proce-dures, given a wide range of aluminumstrengths found across different brands and
even in different areas of the same vehicle.The varying degrees of material hardness willdirectly impact repairability.
Other panels hosted during the Summitincluded “Automobile Developments: HowAutomotive Manufacturing is Driving Change inthe Repair Industry,” “Equipment Development:How Vehicle Design and Materials Relateto Equipment Longevity and Design” and“Marketplace Development: How Specializationis Shifting Collision Repair Business Practices.”These first two presentations offeredglimpses into the automaker and equipmentmanufacturer perspectives on how repairerscan best prepare for the changes ahead inmaterials, as well as tools and equipment usedin the repair process, while the third focused onhow specialization is driving a shift in howshops do business.
SCRS: Stronger than Ever Prior to the Summit, SCRS hosted a spe-
cial Tuesday night Poolside Reception on thethird floor of the Westgate Las Vegas Resort &Casino. The relaxed atmosphere and amazingview provided the perfect way for SCRS to cel-ebrate its many accomplishments in recenttimes. Currently, they represent more than 44state and regional associations (including re-cently added groups in Louisiana, Wisconsinand Texas) across the country. These groupstake part in events like the SCRS Affiliate Lead-ership Conference, held most recently in Octo-ber in Denver, CO. Additionally, SCRScontinues to maintain its international outreachthrough ongoing collaborations with groupsincluding the Collision Repair Specialists ofAustralia (CRSA), the Ontario, Canada-basedCollision Industry Information Assistance
WMABA's Jordan Hendler (right) led a panel discussion on certification development dur-ing the SCRS OEM Collision Repair Technology Summit during SEMA
The SCRS Poolside Reception gave attendees a chance to unwind after a busy day at the show.Right: Past SCRS Chairman Jeff Hendler
40 December 2014
41December 2014
(CIIA) and the New Zealand Collision RepairAssociation (CRA).
“We put our heart and soul into trying tofix the issues that matter to collision repairers,”offered SCRS Executive Director Aaron Schu-lenburg in his address to Reception attendees.“From that, we’ve seen increases in our mem-bership level in every single category everyyear. We’re really proud of the fact that we con-tinue to see growth from repairers at every size,level, area and demographic across the USbecause it encourages us that we are on theright track.”
Past SCRS Chairman Jeff Hendler notedthat the Collision Repair & Refinish area atSEMA had grown exponentially since SCRSfirst approached show organizers in the late2000s with the idea of building a stronger pres-ence for the auto body side of the industry.
“Our two organizations shared a similarvision for what could result by combining ourrelevance to the industry and their stellarcapabilities in organizing world-class shows,”he recalled. “They opened the door; that doorhas not only been cracked up, but it has beenblown open. Our section of SEMA is somethingwe can all be proud of. SCRS is proud to haveplayed a major role in that.”
Wrapping up the evening, current SCRSChairman Ron Reichen encouraged membersof the industry to be a part of the association’sfuture work on behalf of the collision repaircommunity.
“Be involved,” he said. “The people whomake changes are the people who show up.”H&D
SCRS would like to thank PPG, www.CrashRepairInfo.com, Toyota, AudaExplore, BASF, Hertz, 3Mand Ford for sponsoring both the OEM CollisionRepair Technology Summit and the Poolside Recep-tion. More information on SCRS is available atwww.scrs.com.
continued from page 39
NATIONAL FEATURE
SCRS Chairman Ron Reichen
42 December 2014
To ensure proper accountability, eachtechnician must sign off on his or her proce-dures, and the shop foreman must recheck(peer review) and sign off prior to the vehiclemoving to the next department. We also havea 50-Point Final Checklist, but that is for an-other article. Additionally, we have a slightlydifferent checklist for aluminum intensive vehi-cles, but we restrict its publication. If you areinterested, please feel free to contact us. Oncewe verify your facility is certified for an alu-minum repair program, we will be more thanwilling to share our Aluminum Intensive De-partmental Checklist with you.
There are so many more operations toadd to the above lists, but because each facil-ity operates slightly differently, we cannot listevery one. The checks in this article are themost commonly found to be overlooked and/orforgotten. When we consult for a facility, wegenerally customize and adjust the list for thatindividual business.
We hope this article has helped the in-dustry to better understand the importance ofkeeping track of repairs as they move througheach department, what could go wrong with arepair and the ramifications of those mistakes.
Feel free to contact us if you have anyquestions. H&D
Larry Montanez III, CDA is co-owner of P&L Consultants with Peter Pratti, Jr. P&L Consultantsworks with collision repair shops on estimating,production and proper repair procedures. P&L con-ducts repair workshops on MIG & resistance welding, measuring for estimating and advanced estimatingskills. P&L also conducts investigations for insurersand repair shops for improper repairs, collision re-pairability and estimating issues. P&L can be reachedby contacting Larry at (718) 891-4018 (office), (917) 860–3588 (cell), (718) 646–2733 (fax) or viaemail at [email protected]. The P&L website iswww.PnLEstimology.com.
Jeff Lange, PE is president of Lange Technical Serv-ices, Ltd. of Deer Park, NY www.LangeTech.net. Jeffis a Licensed New York State Professional Engineerwho specializes in investigating vehicle and compo-nent failures. Lange Technical Services, Ltd. is an in-vestigative engineering firm performing forensic vehicleexaminations and analysis for accident reconstruction,products liability and insurance issues. Jeff can bereached at (631) 667-6128 or by email [email protected].
continued from page 25
TECHNICAL FEATURE
SOPs are the key to peace. I hear so manyshop managers say that they much appreciatechecklists because it gives them the ability tohave minimal oversight with the mutual un-derstanding of the expectation of performanceby all employees. Usually, these lists are available from vendors as a tool to customize,or even your association has them!
- Jordan Hendler
Executive Director’s Thoughts
BOB BELL FORD 7125 RITCHIE HWY, GLEN BURNIE, MD 20161Phone: 410-689-3038Fax: 410-766-1275www.bobbell.com
WALDORF FORD2440 CRAIN HWY, WALDORF, MD 20601Phone: 301-843-3028Fax: 301-843-0334e-mail: [email protected]
TED BRITT FORD11165 FAIRFAX BLVD, FAIRFAX, VA 22030Phone: 703-673-2420Fax: 703-870-7982www.tedbrittparts.com
PLAZA FORD1701 BEL AIR RD, BEL AIR, MD 21014Phone: 410-879-3367Fax: 410-877-7248www.plazaford.com
SHEEHY FORD5000 AUTH RD, MARLOW HEIGHTS, MD 20746Phone: 301-899-6300Fax: 301-702-3650www.sheehyford.com
HAGERSTOWN FORD1714 MASSEY BLVD,HAGERSTOWN, MD 21740Phone: 800-200-0276Fax: 301-733-0603www.hagerstownford.com
KOONS FORD OF ANNAPOLIS2540 RIVA ROADANNAPOLIS, MD 21401Phone: 410-266-3083Fax: 410-224-4239www.koonsford.com
Contact these Ford or Lincoln Mercury dealers for all your parts needs:
© 2014, Ford Motor Company43December 2014
44 December 2014
45December 2014
The Importanceof RespiratoryProtection
In my last article, I listed some of themost common citations that shops receivefrom OSHA. I discussed OSHA’s HazardCommunication Standard, or “Right to Know”law and the pieces of the law that businessowners must follow. As you will recall, the newGlobally Harmonized System (GHS) require-ments include new container labeling, a transi-tion from MSDS to Safety Data Sheets (SDS)and employee training. By December 2016, allemployers must be in full compliance with theregulation.
This month, I’d like to discuss anotherregulation that is misunderstood by manyshop owners (and therefore, quite a money-maker for OSHA): Respiratory Protection.
Respirators are one piece of PersonalProtective Equipment (PPE) required whenworking with certain dangerous chemicalssuch as paint, welding fumes and body dust.While there is a law regarding PPE in general,OSHA considers respirators so important thatthey dedicated an entire regulation solely totheir proper selection and use.
Because inhalation is the most seriousroute of entry for chemicals into the body,respirators are required as a defense againstthese hazards. The best source of informationregarding proper PPE - including respirators -is the product’s SDS. The manufacturer, usingknowledge of their product, as well as OSHA’spermissible exposure levels (PELs), instructsend-users on required safety equipment.
Two main types of respirators includeair-purifying (APR) and supplied-air (SAR).APRs filter certain contaminants out of the air,while SARs provide clean fresh air from aknown source. A motorized belt pack is notsupplied-air.
Before a respirator can be used in theworkplace, several procedures must be in
order. The first step is an evaluation of thechemical to determine the proper type of res-pirator to use. Second, each employee mustbe certified by a medical professional to behealthy enough to wear it. A standard OSHAemployee questionnaire will be reviewed, anda limited physical exam or breathing test(PFT) may be needed. Third, once a year, theemployee must be trained and fit-tested withhis/her model and size of respirator.
With all OSHA regulations, proper docu-mentation is crucial. You must have a recordof the training, fit-testing and medical clear-ance for each employee who wears one. AWritten Respiratory Protection Program(WRPP), which spells out your company’spolicies and procedures, is the last majorrequirement.
These are the basics of OSHA’s Respira-tory Protection standard. Many finer points ofthis regulation simply won’t fit in this space. AsI said last time, most injuries, illnesses andfines are due to lack of knowledge, not lack ofcaring by shop owners. I hope you find thisinformation useful in making your workplacesafer. If you have a question, or would like tosuggest a future topic, give me a call. H&D
Joseph J. Kenny II is president of Safety Reg-ulation Strategies, Inc., a nationwide safetyand environmental training and consultingfirm. He has helped thousands of businessescreate safe and compliant workplaces, andcan be reached at (800) 723-3734 or on theweb at www.SafetyRegulations.com.
A view from the supplierside of the industry. VENDOR
CORNER
46 December 2014
BY JOSEPH J. KENNY II
47December 2014
• Top-notch educational opportunities• Over 150 industry-leading exhibitors• Fun for the whole family, and more!
tested to its limits. Today, this week or this month is no different than any other. Recently, I had amoment to stop and reflect on what seems like worsening conditions that we – repairers, managersand owners – must tolerate. Every day, we are faced with lower and lower reimbursements for re-quired repairs and allowances for materials. Repairs required by OEMs are being ignored, and I sitback and think, “This just stinks.”
Why can’t we be fairly compensated for the repairs we perform and the materials we use?Personally, I think it’s because we don’t always do our due diligence. Are we not asking for thethings we need, or are we just not doing them? The easiest way to combat these woes is to edu-cate yourselves, your staff and the people who come into your shops who don’t want to pay thebills. Very seldom will you get pushback if you are able to educate. Do the research; if something isrequired, prove it, document it and legitimize it. The days of, “Well, that’s the way we do it” aregone. Agreeing to disagree is not going to pay the bills. It’s hard to dispute documented require-ments and invoices. If the material you use costs “X,” and an insurance company only pays “Z,” butyou have an invoice for it, stick to your guns. If an OEM says that there is only one proper repairand it requires “A, B and C” to be done properly, prove it and get paid.
In most cases, we bring this problem upon ourselves by simply sitting back and watching ithappen. I say it’s time to stop and do what’s right for our industry and our customer. Fix it right andget paid for it. Stop tolerating outside influences. H&D
TOLERANCEtol·er·ance/�täl(�)r�ns/noun: tolerance1.the ability or willingness to tol-erate something, in particularthe existence of opinions orbehavior that one does notnecessarily agree with.
I will never be mistaken for Job, butI do consider myself a tolerant person.However, we all have our limits. Howmuch can a person, a shop or an indus-try tolerate? Every day, our patience is
MESSAGEPRESIDENT’S Don Beaver
(443) 539-4200 ext. [email protected]
48 December 2014
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49December 2014
50 December 2014
ADVERTISERS’INDEX
Alexander & Cleaver............................23
Alexandria Toyota ................................41
All Foreign Used Auto..........................41
Audi Group ..........................................13
Axalta Coating Systems ......................OBC
BMW Group ........................................26-27
BMW of Bel Air ....................................IBC
BMW of Fairfax....................................3
BMW of Rockville ................................IBC
BMW of Towson ..................................IBC
CAPA ..................................................17
Car-part.com........................................19
Chesapeake Automotive Equipment ..50
Empire Auto Parts................................42
Ford Group ..........................................43
Future Cure ........................................29
GM Parts Group ..................................9
Hendrick Honda ..................................44
Honda Group ......................................16
Hyundai Group ....................................19
Koons Ford ..........................................44
Malloy Auto Group ..............................8
Mazda Group ......................................47
MINI Group ..........................................45
MINI of Baltimore County ....................IBC
Mitsubishi Group..................................12
Mopar Group ........................................21
Nissan Group ......................................36
NORTHEAST® 2015 ..........................48
NuCar ..................................................11
O’Donnell Honda ................................42
Packer Norris Parts ............................4
Porsche Group ....................................37
PPG ....................................................IFC
P&L Consultants..................................25
Russel Toyota ......................................23
Safety Regulations ..............................46
Steck Manufacturing............................50
Subaru Group......................................49
Toyota Group ......................................31
VW Group............................................40
51December 2014
