November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 1

VOL 23, NO 3 www.AutomotiveReport.net NOVEMBER 2020 Monthly News for the Local Automotive Industry in Southeastern Texas, including Body Shops, Mechanical Shops and Dealers

want to continue to bring education to the for consumers to more easily file a com- Trade Groups: Helping the automotive shops in the safest way possible.” plaint against an insurance company as Tuggle said difficult economic times well as send that information to their local repair industry through challenging times such as these are when association mem- lawmakers to raise awareness of the issues, bership can matter most for shops. she said. “We understand that things are far from “We will be pursuing legislation in the By John Yoswick business they serve. normal from a financial aspect for many spring that, if passed, would have a posi- Automotive Report asked trade associa- businesses, ABAT included,” she said. tive impact on a shop’s ability to seek reim- This has been a disruptive year for the tion leaders to offer an update on their cur- “Our educational slate will be centered bursement for OEM recommended repair dozens of state, regional and national trade rent activities and upcoming plans in this around the importance of being a profitable processes,” Tuggle said. associations representing shops, just as unprecedented time. shop and ways our members can increase For more information about ABAT, it has been for their membership as well. Texas group plans smaller events profits.” check the group’s website (www.abat.us). Executive directors and their boards have The Auto Body Association of Texas One initiative the association has under- Continued on page 6 found themselves canceling events such as (ABAT) is among those that had to can- taken this year involves creating a means trade shows — often a key source of fund- cel many events, including the Texas Auto ing for the associations, learning how to Body Trade Show, a primary fundraiser for hold online training and meeting online, the group. coordinating staff now all working from “In response to this, we are looking at home, seeing legislative efforts put on hosting smaller regional events, Jill Tug- hold, and working to remain relevant to the gle, executive director of ABAT said. “We ‘Car Doctor’ offers advice for thriving in tough times

By Sheryl Bussard owned shop, R\A Automotive in Wald- wick, New Jersey — as he has for roughly Since 1991, Ron Ananian has informed, the past three decades. That all changed on educated, and entertained millions of lis- March 15, when he sent his lead mechanic, Joe Hudson’s Collision Repair - 10 teners through his nationally syndicated ra- Danny, home with pay and closed the shop dio program, “The Car Doctor.” Broadcast due to the pandemic. But by mid-April, the live every Saturday, Ananian takes calls phone had already started ringing again, from car owners and technicians seeking he brought Danny back full time, and busi- his definitive ness has picked up steadily ever since. take on automo- “We’re actually about 15 percent over tive repair. A normal,” Ananian said. “People don’t want recent broadcast to go into debt right now; they want to covered topics hang on to what they’ve got and take care ranging from of it.” the future of di- When asked what it’s going to take for agnostic costs shops to survive and thrive in the current to transmission economy, Ananian stressed two key busi- issues on a 2018 ness philosophies that have guided him Grand Cherokee throughout his career: know your costs and to the best spark plugs for a ’78 GMC mo- know your customers. torhome. Know your costs Before the pandemic hit, in addition to Thirty years ago, Ananian created a his Saturday radio program, Ananian was Continued on page 7 1961 Ghia Dual - 14 putting in five days a week at his family- Shops report measurement issues with some steering columns 4 ‘Not just a shop class’ teacher wins $50,000 award 11 Car built in Washington state sets a world record at 316 mph 15

STX1120

Presorted Standard U.S. POSTAGE PAID Franklin, TN Permit No. 357 Dated Material 2 South Texas Automotive Report November 2020

to optimize the vehicle’s cabin acoustic approach and departure angles take pre- 2022 GMC Hummer EV has environment. cedence in the design. Powered by Epic’s Unreal Gaming “We had a unique opportunity: Create Engine, HUMMER EV’s graphic HMI something people will instantly recognize jaw dropping HP and torque displays make features and selections while challenging perceptions by creat- easy to find and intuitive to navigate at ing a zero-emissions, zero-limits electric By GM Press Release ing the maximum torque delivered to the a glance. The start-up animation, along truck,” said Phil Zak, HUMMER EV wheels; and along with the distinctive with different screen colors and distinc- design executive director. “ DETROIT – The 2022 GMC HUM- suspension and torque variables, the inte- tive graphic displays for different drive The design is infused with signature MER EV experience puts drivers in the rior display screen graphics and colors, modes enhance the interactivity of the cues, from the low-turret upper, upright middle of every moment, with revolution- along with unique vehicle sounds, will be technologies and apps. windshield and rugged execution. Its con- ary on-road performance features enabled changeable with the different modes. Some functions can be activated by temporary, muscular design also commu- by next-gen EV power, head-turning The HUMMER EV will offer GMC’s voice command, while smartphone- nicates a technological leap forward: The looks and an unmistakable stance. ProGrade Trailering Technology, a suite like swipe functionality makes scrolling front and rear lights feature charge indica- “The all-new GMC HUMMER EV will of smart, intuitive technologies, includ- and feature selection simple within the tion, and the front light signature serves be the first of its breed — an open-air, all- ing an additional camera view designed infotainment system. Feature selection as the face of the vehicle. electric supertruck with zero emissions to enhance trailering confidence. through the driver information center is The design further incorporates clever and zero limits,” said Al Oppenheiser, ProGrade Trailering Technology fea- available through steering wheel controls. details such as the distinctive HUMMER HUMMER EV chief engineer. “It will tures were proven on other GMC trucks Three fundamental in-vehicle infor- EV “H” motif seen in several elements, have the capability to go almost including the headlamps, tail- anywhere, on- or off-road, com- lamps and wheels. bining screaming performance Additionally, the indus- with a nearly silent ride.” try-leading Infinity Roof is a HUMMER EV’s unprec- signature element of the HUM- edented capabilities will blend MER EV’s expressive design, with engaging technologies, offering open-air driving via creating a sense of intensity and modular, transparent Sky Pan- drama for drivers and passen- els. Even the I-Bar mounting gers. frame for the panels is remov- HUMMER EV’s on-road per- able, for a totally open experi- formance matches its off-road ence above, while a power-drop chops. Three electric motors rear window takes the open-air within the Ultium Drive system concept even further. offer a GM-estimated best-in- Under the full-power- class 1,000 horsepower and, equipped hood, the roof panels when multiplied through the can stow in accessory cases front and rear drive unit gear inside the front storage com- ratios, offer more than 11,500 partment known as the “frunk,” lb-ft of torque (GM estimate) when equipped with the dealer- to the wheels, enabling unprec- available accessory storage edented performance capability. and are adapted for the unique character- mation centers help owners navigate the tray. The ultimate expression of that perfor- istics of the HUMMER EV’s electric pro- capabilities and selectable features of the “The Infinity Roof embodies the HUM- mance will be delivered in HUMMER pulsion system. They include an in-vehi- vehicles: MER EV’s spirt of adventure,” said Zak. EV’s own launch control mode, known cle Trailering App with Trailer Light Test, Energy Assist — Monitors energy use, “It figuratively and literally removes the as Watts to Freedom. This driver-select- Trailer Electrical Diagnostics, Trailer Tire sets up charging schedules, battery tem- barrier between passengers and the world, able feature channels the propulsion sys- Pressure and Temperature Monitoring, perature conditioning and more for a more immersive driving experi- tem’s tremendous power into acceleration Pre-Maintenance Reminders and Depar- Off-Road Widgets — Offer a myriad of ence.” bursts — including GM-estimated 0-60 ture Checklist. information related to the HUMMER Pioneered on the GMC Sierra, the mph in approximately 3 seconds. “The HUMMER EV is all about the EV’s selectable capabilities and perfor- HUMMER EV incorporates the six- “Watts to Freedom unlocks the full experience — where it will go, what it mance readouts in off-road driving sce- function MultiPro Tailgate tailored spe- potential of the propulsion system and can do and the feeling of freedom it will narios — everything from the ride height cifically for the design of the all-electric puts all of its available power to the provide,” said Oppenheiser. “It’s meant and eLocker engagement to compass supertruck. The six functions include: pri- pavement,” said Oppenheiser. “It’s an to be an exceptionally versatile truck; and headings, pitch/roll status and more mary gate, primary gate load stop, easy all-encompassing experience unlike any- by offering features like Watts to Free- ProGradeTrailering App — Based on the access, wide step, inner gate load stop and thing else — purpose-built for straight- dom, Drive Mode Control and ProGrade Trailering App developed for GMC’s full- inner gate with work surface. line fun.” Trailering, it’s also exceptionally fun.” size trucks, this widget allows the owner The five-passenger HUMMER EV’s As the vehicle readies itself for Watts to In-vehicle technology is a fundamental to create a trailer profile, perform a trailer bold cabin design is geometric and tex- Freedom, a series of interior experiences element of the HUMMER EV’s immer- light test, establish pre-departure check- tured. Its newly developed surface mate- convey the feeling of a “pre-launch count- sive experience and will be responsible lists and more rials contribute to the premium look and down,” including interactive controls, for everything from tracking range and Digital Key feel commensurate with GMC’s high unique sounds through the Bose speakers locating charging stations, to monitoring With the Bluetooth and Ultra-Wide- standards for craftsmanship and rugged- and screen animations. The vehicle also vehicle performance on and off the road band-enabled Digital Key, owners will ness. lowers 2 inches to prepare for the launch, — and even ensuring the right soundtrack be able to use their smartphone as the key There’s no conventional carpet in the utilizing a lower center of gravity. is playing on that Moab excursion. fob for their HUMMER EV. The tech- interior, either. A versatile and easy-to- “It’s an amazing demonstration of just It will all be accessible through two nology detects the owner’s phone and clean vinyl floor, topped with rubber how fast 1,000 horsepower and 11,500 large displays: a 13.4-inch diagonal color its location in proximity to the vehicle, flooring made from recycled material, is lb-ft of electric propulsion can move you touchscreen that’s part of the GMC info- enabling a number of passive operations functional and instilled with distinctive — regardless of the vehicle’s size,” said tainment system and a 12.3-inch diagonal such as approach lighting, entry unlock design elements. Rubber inserts for each Oppenheiser. “It’ll put a smile on your color driver information center display. and vehicle operation. The technology passenger position are designed for easy face every single time.” The cabin experience will be enhanced was pioneered on GM EVs used in ride- removal and clean up after a day on the The HUMMER EV’s driving experi- by advanced sound technologies, with sharing programs and is enhanced to offer trail. ence can also be tailored by the driver for HUMMER EV’s Bose Premium sound greater convenience for HUMMER EV “HUMMER EV will offer a refined different conditions through Drive Mode system with Centerpoint surround sig- owners. and rugged interior for owners who want Control. It includes four pre-configured nal processing and 14 high-performance At a glance, there’s no mistaking this something fresh and new, yet capable modes: Normal, Tow/Haul, Off-Road speakers to deliver a powerful and immer- truck as anything but a GMC HUMMER enough to get dirty and handle what you and Terrain, along with the configurable sive listening experience. Beyond music EV. throw at it,” said Brett Golliff, HUMMER My Mode — featuring a new Adrenaline reproduction, Electric Vehicle Sound Its formidable styling cues, including EV color and trim manager. “Everything Mode. Enhancement uses Bose Active Sound wheels at the corners and a high stance, we did, from visibility and seating to fea- Each has specific chassis, suspension Management capabilities, combining are rooted in a capability-first mantra, ture control location, was done to enhance and propulsion characteristics, includ- sound enhancement with noise masking where off-road functionality such as Continued on page 4 November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 3

RECALLS 5 Starting in January 2021 SHOP PROFILE - Joe Hudson’s Collision Center 10 the Automotive Report RACING NOTES 12 will be online only! REARVIEW - 1961 Ghia Dual 14 December 2020 will mark the end of an era. For over 32 years we’ve been printing and mailing the Automotive Reports. We are moving into the digital age.

VOL. 23, NO 3 • November 2020 For the last couple of years we have Editor up-loaded the Automotive Report Barry Forkum Publisher / Advertising Director online and we have established Garnett Forkum a large following. So much so that it Art Director Allen Forkum has 10 times the readership of our Copy Editor Tom Williams print publications combined. Contributors John Yoswick, Steve McLinden Go to: Jay Hirsch, Sheryl Bussard, Robert Bravender, Tom Williams www.automotivereport.net Advertising Sales Marj Pierce View the current issue and past articles, you can also Phone: (901) 466-0903 Cell: (901) 497-0926 • Fax: (901) 466-9415 sign up for a free subscription notification that will Email: [email protected] email you each time we post the new issue. Go today. www.AutomotiveReport.net

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ADVERTISER INDEX Grande Ford Truck - 11 Ancira Nissan - 16 Helfman Ford - 15 Cavender Chevolet - 14 Kayco Spray Booths - 15 We appreciate your continual support. Check us out Crash Network - 6 McRee Ford - 16 on FaceBook and InstaGram. Ed Payne Motors - 10 Subaru of Clear Lake - 16 Autographic’s Automotive Report Ford Power Stroke Dealers - 8, 9 Texan Dodge Chrysler - 7 1121 Airport Center Drive, Suit 101 Fredy Kia - 4 Tomball Ford - 7 Nashville Tn. 37214 4 South Texas Automotive Report November 2020

mittee” is continuing to push for more use. So that part might be identified as Shops report measurement issues consistency in how parts are defined and “OE Discount” in one parts platform and described within the industry. During the estimating system, and as “Aftermarket” recent CIC, the committee showed how in another parts platform and estimating with some steering columns the list of parts categories varies among system, resulting in the same part being parts platforms and estimating systems. labeled differently on estimates. By John Yoswick tomaker that provides better illustrations The committee showed several flowcharts In another example, the committee than some other automakers as to what dis- that demonstrate how all these variations showed where an “OEM take-off” part can Safety inspections required by some au- tances on the columns are to be measured. in parts categories can result in the exact end up categorized on an estimate as “Re- tomakers as part of post-collision repairs But any incorrect measurements in the same part being described two different cycled” or “OE Surplus.” sometimes include measurement of the OEM information, he said, may be impact- ways on estimates. Confusion — or intent to confuse? steering column to ensure it was not dam- ing cycle time and repair costs, damaging In the first example, a vendor selling Ken Weiss, who co-chairs the CIC com- aged as part of the accident. Speaking at credibility with consumers, fostering ten- OEM parts outside of the authorized OEM mittee, said parts suppliers may be genu- a recent virtual Collision Industry Con- sions between shops and insurers, and channel enters those parts into a platform inely unclear as to how to identify parts ference (CIC), Jason Bartanen of CIC’s placing undue burden on the parts supply that uses the “OEM Surplus” category for they are putting into the parts platforms (or “Emerging Technologies Committee” said chain. such parts. That platform feeds into an directly into the estimating systems). such requirements have led more shops to “All those things aside, my biggest con- estimating system that uses the “Optional “But there are others who deliberately measure steering columns — and in some cern is we finally have this momentum of OEM” label for those parts. California will elevate their part to the highest pos- cases to find discrepancies in the OEM in- people starting to read and follow OEM regulators, however, prohibit the use of the sible scenario they can,” Weiss said. formation. procedures, and if they’re getting bad in- “Opt-OEM” label. “This is where specific terms with spe- Bartanen said General Motors, for ex- formation, we’re going to have techni- “So while that part can go into the es- cific definitions benefit the industry, rather ample, has a requirement to inspect the cians and repair facilities and insurance timating platform as ‘Opt-OEM,’ the end- than leaving things open to supplier inter- steering column for “bending, twisting, personnel start to ignore those OEM pro- user is required to choose what they are pretation or decision,” Schulenburg said. buckling or any type of damage” after any cedures,” Bartanen said. “They may think: going to call it on the estimate,” Aaron “We need to be doing our best to be as collision. In one instance, Bartanen said, a ‘If this is bad, what else in the manual is Schulenburg, who co-chairs the CIC com- transparent as possible. There’s a big dif- shop found the steering column in a GMC inaccurate? What else can I just arbitrarily mittee, said. “You then have a situation ference in someone looking at something Sierrra appeared to have collapsed slightly ignore because maybe it’s wrong? Maybe where a shop repair plan, and an insurance called an ‘OE Surplus’ part and assuming because it measured 273 mm, not the 286 that sectioning procedure was put in the company estimate, may each potentially that’s an OEM part, versus the impression mm called for in the GM collision repair wrong place. Maybe the material type or choose different nomenclature for the ex- of what a ‘recycled’ part is. I think we need information. But the new replacement col- thickness was wrong.’ If we’re ignoring act same part. One may identify that as an to do everything in our power to make sure aftermarket part, and one may identify it as we are distinguishing parts appropriately.” an OEM part, and you have an estimating The committee, however, has had diffi- platform that allows for that choice.” culty reaching a consensus on what defini- In a second example, a parts supplier tions and names for the parts types should may refer to a part as a “Tier 1 Replace- be. Bartanen said the discrepancy could ment” part because it is manufactured and “That’s the struggle we got hung up on sold by Tier 1 suppliers to the automakers, last year,” Weiss said. • be based on data from OEM engineer- such as Denso and Bosch. That’s a parts category none of the systems currently ing drawings not matching the actual part once it went into production. In ... HP and torque

some cases, it could be shops are not Continued from page 2 At launch, the 2022 HUMMER EV the overall driving experience on- and will be offered in Edition 1 trim, featur- measuring the columns correctly; ... off-road.” ing a white exterior color, a unique high- Convenience is also built into the contrast Lunar Horizon interior color and HUMMER EV’s interior, with handy special Edition 1 interior badging. It also storage solutions throughout, including includes the Extreme Off-Road Pack- a roomy two-tier front floor console — age, which adds Adaptive Air Suspension umn the shop received measured 278 mm, the procedures, ultimately we’re going to enabled by the flat floor of the EV archi- with available Extract Mode capability, 4 also short of the measurement in the auto- compromise customer safety. That’s not tecture — along with multiple storage Wheel Steer with CrabWalk, 35-inch-OD maker’s documentation. okay. We need information that’s accurate, bins and a lockable glove box. Goodyear Wrangler Territory MT tires, Another shop, he said, similarly found and we need collision repair professionals And like the exterior, clever design underbody armor, rock sliders, under- a steering column in a Nissan Versa was following that information to ensure we’re cues abound inside the cabin, including body cameras and more. The HUMMER shorter than indicated in that automaker’s putting our customers back in vehicles that a stylized “H” for the instrument panel’s EV Edition 1 will have a starting price of collision repair information — only to then are safe.” central air vent and other details waiting $112,595 including destination, when it find that it was the same length as several General Motors this past summer also to be discovered. goes on sale in the fall of next year. • replacement columns the shop ordered. said its published requirements for inspec- So what should a shop do in such in- tions that it currently says must be com- stances? pleted “after any collision” to see if they FREDY KIA “That’s the question we’re trying to get can be scaled back for vehicles needing some clarification for from the vehicle only minor repairs. manufacturers,” Bartanen said, saying in “We recognize that the requirements and Biggest Inventory the case of the GM column, the shop in- processes we had laid out … are extreme- stalled the replacement part given that the ly labor intensive and vehicle invasive,” of Genuine Kia Parts column in the car was even 5 mm shorter GM’s John Eck said. than the replacement part. A survey of 17 automakers showed that in South Texas! “The people I’ve talked to are, for the GM and Subaru are the only two that re- Call or email us your order today! most part, putting the old column back in if quire extensive inspections following any [email protected] it’s measuring the same as the replacement collision, regardless of severity. But Eck column.” emphasized that prior to its new proce- Troublesome issue dures being finalized, GM’s current post- Bartanen said the discrepancy could collision inspection requirements remain 800-883-1933 • Direct (713) 941-0273 be based on data from OEM engineering in place. drawings not matching the actual part once “Until then, nothing has changed,” Eck (713) 947-8053 Fax it went into production. In some cases, it said. could be shops are not measuring the col- Same part, different name 11711 Gulf Freeway • Houston, TX 77034 umns correctly; he said Subaru is one au- The CIC “Parts and Materials Com- November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 5

Recalls Edmunds compares 2020 Honda Compiled from AP, manufacturer, EPA and NHTSA news releases. CR-V and Toyota RAV 4 hybrids

BMW of North America is recaling 4,509 vehicles, including certain BMW and By AP Wire Service are more comfortable than the Toyota’s. In Mini Cooper models. Debris may have entered one or more of the hybrid battery both vehicles, rear passengers get ample cells during production. When a remedy for this is available, owners will be noti- The Toyota RAV4 Hybrid is the brand’s legroom but will likely prefer the higher fied. best-selling hybrid, with 2019 sales out- seating position in the CR-V Hybrid. pacing even those of the Prius. It provides Honda also does a slightly better job of FORD Motor Co. is recalling 9,628 2019 F-250 and F-350 trucks that may have significantly higher fuel economy - an es- making the CR-V’s interior materials look been assembled with a wheel and yoke that was not properly welded to the axle tube timated 40 mpg combined - than the regu- and feel more upscale. The CR-V Hybrid end. Dealers will inspect the trucks and replace any axles found to be defective. lar RAV4 SUV with minimal compromise. also offers excellent isolation from road There is a new alternative for shoppers imperfections and engine vibrations, add- GENERAL MOTORS is recalling 3,317 2020 vehicles — including Corvettes, to consider, however: the Honda CR-V ing to a more luxurious driving experi- CT4 and CT5 Cadillacs, and certain Buick Encore and Chevrolet Trail Blazer mod- Hybrid. The 2020 model year is the first ence. The RAV4’s engine can sound ex- els — to replace the electronic brake boost module due to possible contamination. time Honda has offered a hybrid version ceedingly coarse under acceleration. of its top-selling SUV. The regular CR-V Winner: CR-V Hybrid HYUNDAI Motor America is recalling 6,707 2019 and 2020 Kana electric vehi- also happens to be Edmunds’ top-rated INFOTAINMENT AND DRIVING cles. The lithium ion battery may short circuit after it is fully charged. Dealers will nonhybrid SUV, considerably outranking AIDS update the battery management system. the regular RAV4. The RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid Is the CR-V’s all-around goodness offer fairly comprehensive suites of driv- JAGUAR LAND ROVER America is recalling 11,950 2020 and 2021 Range Rover enough to overcome Toyota’s hybrid er aids. Features such as adaptive cruise Sport vehicles to correct a problem with the instrument cluster software that may expertise? Edmunds’ team of expert re- control, lane keeping assist and automatic not notify drivers when the tire pressure drops 25 percent below the recommended viewers compare the 2020 Honda CR-V emergency braking are standard. As for pressure. Hybrid and 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid to operation of these systems, we’ve found determine a winner. the Honda’s to be a little more prone to VOLKSWAGEN of America is recalling 1,829 2020 Passat vehicles to replace the PRICE AND FUEL ECONOMY unnecessary or annoying alerts. front passenger airbag assembly. The airbag was not folded properly during assem- Toyota and Honda ask for a modest Infotainment offerings are broadly simi- bly and could have reduced deployment force. premium, just under $3,000, for the hy- lar, though the design of each vehicle’s in- brid versions of fotainment interface their popular SUVs. leaves something to Starting at $29,870, be desired. Honda’s including destina- Is the CR-V’s all-around system looks dated, Ford recalls over 700K vehicles; backup tion, the CR-V Hy- goodness enough to overcome and its virtual but- brid runs neck and Toyota’s hybrid expertise? tons can be tough cameras can go dark neck with the RAV4 Edmunds’ team of expert to press and slow Hybrid, which starts reviewers compare the 2020 to respond. The at $29,675. Pric- Toyota system’s DETROIT — Ford is recalling more than 700,000 vehicles in North America because Honda CR-V Hybrid and the backup cameras can show distorted images or suddenly go dark. ing is similar even dated graphics don’t The recall covers most 2020 versions of Ford’s F-Series trucks, as well as the 2020 when you look at a 2020 Toyota RAV4 Hybrid to do it any favors ei- Explorer, Mustang, Transit, Expedition, Escape, Ranger and Edge. Also included are the fully loaded model. determine a winner. ther, but its easier- Lincoln Nautilus and Corsair. F-Series trucks are the top-selling vehicle in the U.S. Both of these hybrid to-press buttons The company says in documents posted by the U.S. government’s National Highway SUVs come stan- and availability of Traffic Safety Administration that a poor electrical connection is causing the problem. dard with all-wheel drive. Apple CarPlay and Android Auto smart- Ford says it doesn’t know of any crashes or injuries caused by the problem. The EPA estimates that the CR-V Hy- phone integration on every RAV4 Hybrid Dealers will replace the rearview camera at no cost to owners. The recall is expected brid will get 38 mpg in combined driving. tip the scales. to start Nov. 7. (AP) • But in our real-world testing evaluation, Winner: RAV4 Hybrid we had difficulty replicating the EPA num- DRIVING PERFORMANCE ber. Our test CR-V Hybrid ended up get- Straight-line performance isn’t usu- ting 32 mpg overall. In contrast, we found ally at the top of a hybrid buyer’s list, but US probes Mercedes vans for possible it easier to get close to the RAV4 Hybrid’s having enough power to merge onto the EPA estimate of 40 mpg combined. Our freeway or pass on a two-lane road is still unwanted acceleration test RAV4 Hybrid posted 36 mpg. important. The RAV4 Hybrid feels quick- Winner: RAV4 Hybrid er than the CR-V Hybrid when you mash DETROIT — U.S. auto safety regulators are investigating speed sensor problems INTERIOR ACCOMMODATIONS the gas. In Edmunds testing, it was about with Mercedes-Benz Sprinter full-size vans that could cause unwanted acceleration. The RAV4 Hybrid and CR-V Hybrid of- a second quicker in getting to 60 mph. The probe by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration covers about fer spacious interiors with ample room for The CR-V Hybrid does beat the RAV4 160,000 Sprinter 2500 and 3500 vans from the 2011 through 2018 model years. both front and rear seat passengers. Both Hybrid when it comes to handling and The agency says it has 44 complaints of rear wheel speed sensor problems that caused are easy to get in and out of and offer good braking performance and feel. The Honda large fluctuations in speed and erratic transmission shifting. visibility thanks to their elevated driving offers confidence-inspiring handling and Owners also reported the vans went into limp-home mode, and dashboard warning positions. smooth, powerful brakes. The CR-V Hy- lights were activated. There were no reports of crashes or injuries in documents posted These small SUVs also boast tons of brid also provides a smoother transition on the agency’s website. practicality. But the Toyota offers greater from electric to combustion engine pro- The majority of the complaints were about vans converted to recreational vehicles, cargo capacity - 37.6 cubic feet compared pulsion. which account for about one-third of the Sprinter population. The agency says 11 own- to the CR-V Hybrid’s 33.2 cubic feet - as Winner: CR-V Hybrid ers reported multiple sensor replacements. It says the problems may be caused by mois- well as rear seats that are easier to raise EDMUNDS SAYS: The 2020 Honda ture getting into the sensors. and lower. CR-V Hybrid and 2020 Toyota RAV4 Mercedes said that it is communicating with NHTSA and will “continue to fully co- Toyota has placed numerous bins and Hybrid are both smart buys that justify operate with the agency.” shelves inside the cabin for storage of their slightly higher costs compared to NHTSA says it will investigate how often the problem happens and the safety conse- small items. But the CR-V’s options the conventional models. They are closely quences. The probe could lead to a recall. (AP) • are generally more versatile and clever. matched, and your decision could come Should car seat installation be a daily oc- down to personal taste. But in the end currence, Honda’s slightly more generous Edmunds recommends the CR-V Hybrid. rear seat legroom makes loading and un- Though it’s not as efficient as the RAV4 visit our web-site loading your precious cargo a little easier. Hybrid, its superior mix of refinement, Winner: tie practicality and comfort makes it more www.AutomotiveReport.net COMFORT AND REFINEMENT enjoyable to drive every day. (AP) • The Honda CR-V Hybrid’s front seats 6 South Texas Automotive Report November 2020

lision repair professionals but by them,” CCC Information Services’ estimating sys- ... Trade groups Aaron Schulenberg of SCRS said. “We tem, but a version for one of the other two worked with our partners at NuGenIT to estimating systems is expected to be avail- Continued from page 1 Experts, I-CAR, SEM, CCC, etc.,” Kent develop the BOT, which will essentially able before the end of this year. Consumer education one focus said. run your estimate through an audit tool to SCRS offers live online demonstrations Consumer education is also a focus Virtual event planned for January identify any potentially missed operations. of the BOT every Wednesday at 2:30 p.m. for the Carolina’s Collision Associa- The Automotive Service Association We recognize the complexity of today’s Eastern. Visit the SCRS website (www. tion (CCA), according to Josh Kent, the of Texas (ASA-Texas) is the state affili- estimates and how easy it is to overlook scrs.com) for details about the demos or group’s executive director. ate of the national ASA, which represents things that could or should be included on other SCRS activities and membership “We put together a committee of mem- both collision repair and mechanical repair the sheet in the blueprint development pro- benefits. • bers to come up with ways that we could shops. cess. This has increased the efficiency of educate consumers, and out of that came Jennifer Elfert Vredenburg, executive that process for that shop, and provides a John Yoswick, a freelance writer based the idea of building a webpage with a zip director for ASA-Texas, said one of the return on investment by capturing things in Portland, Ore., who has been writing code search that, once finished, will pro- new things the group offers its members is that otherwise would have been over- about the automotive industry since 1988, mote safety as well as inform consumers an automotive content library, ready-to-use looked.” is also the editor of the weekly CRASH Net- about what they should look for when social media postings, and monthly mar- Schulenburg said subscriptions for the work bulletin (www.CrashNetwork.com). choosing a shop,” Kent said. “We will keting resources. Every four to six week, tool start at $139 a month, but SCRS mem- He can be contacted by email at john@ have videos from manufacturers as well as members receive an updated pass code that bers receive a discount that more than cov- CrashNetwork.com. some shops. Our shops will have a code of gives them access to the content of hun- ers the annual dues for membership. The ethics that they will voluntarily sign and dreds of automotive-themed images, with tool initially has worked only with the post in their shop that will allow them to new content added monthly. Customized be found in the zip code search by the con- graphics can be requested, and shops can sumers.” use the content as-is or add their own shop One association’s efforts at recruiting students The association is also working with a information to them. third-party to conduct labor rate surveys Vredenburg said this summer and fall By John Yoswick and to educate shops on tools that can she has been consumed with planning for help them calculate appropriate rates and an upcoming event. One of the projects developed by the ents and educators about career opportu- understand averages in their market. “Although the title is still unofficial and Alliance of Automotive Service Provid- nities in the collision repair industry. Members also have access to educa- the scope still expanding, we are working ers (AASP) affiliate in Minnesota could Though it features Minnesota schools tional webinars and other resources that with industry partners across the nation to offer a model for other associations to and students, a two-minute video added can help their shop, Kent said. CCA’s create a new virtual global event for auto- follow in working to attract new entrants to the site last year could be used for “Trade School Committee” is “working on motive repair and collision shop commu- into the collision repair industry. In student recruiting throughout the indus- ways to improve and educate and attract nities,” she said in mid-September. “The 2016, AASP-MN helped create and fund try. The non-profit MNCARS also offers younger people to the industry.” And it’s event will be in January, and ASA-Texas is “Minnesota Careers in Auto Repair and an online toolbox of other excellent “Legal Committee” is developing defini- thrilled to help create opportunities for our Service (MNCARS)” which launched a resources to promote careers in the indus- tions to help shops better understand lan- industry like never before.” website (https://carcareers.org) specifi- try guage in insurance policies and state stat- For more information on ASA-Texas, cally focused on educating students, par- utes in North and South Carolina. visit its website (www.asatx.org). For more information, visit the CCA Offering estimate auditing tool website (https://carolinascollisionassocia- Aaron Schulenburg was asked back in tion.com). July about what role associations play dur- Looking for an association in your state? Working in collaboration ing a tough year like this one. “For us as an association, one of the Kent does double-duty, also serving as By John Yoswick executive director of the Tennessee Col- biggest challenges we see ahead is build- lision Repairers Association (TCRA). As ing optimism within an industry facing In addition to the five associations Georgia Collision Industry Association: such, CCA and TCRA each benefit from all these challenges,” said Schulenburg, highlighted in this article, here are some www.gcia.org the synergies of working together on executive director of the national Society of the other associations serving the some projects. Kent said the TCRA has of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS). industry in their market. Independent Garage Owners of North rebranded itself, including a new website “While this is a great industry that we are Carolina: https://igonc.com/ (https://mytcra.com) that includes some of exceptionally proud to be a part of and to Alliance of Automotive Service Provid- the same resources for shops found on the support, I think it’s a tough time for small ers (AASP) Missouri: https://aasp-mo. Mississippi Collision Repair Associa- CCA website. business owners, and I think in the months org/ tion: https://mscra.net/ The Tennessee group also has similar ahead, maintaining optimism is going to be legal, trade school and consumer commit- a challenge.” Automotive Service Association of Flor- Northwest Louisiana Collision Repair tees to bring similar education and assis- One of the SCRS projects Schulenburg ida: www.asaflorida.org Association: http://nwlcra.org/ tance to shops, consumers and educators is most excited about is the launch earlier in that state. this year of the Blueprint Optimization Automotive Service Association “We team up with CCA to provide non- Tool (BOT). (national): www.ASAshop.org stop education for Tennessee repairers as “It’s a Windows-based auditing software well, working with Mark Olson of VECO auditing software not just designed for col- Here’sHere’s youryour chancechance toto “grade”“grade” thethe insurersinsurers You know some insurers are better than others when it comes to claims practices that help ensure quality repairs and customer service for drivers after a crash. Now you can help drivers understand that difference, too. Take a few minutes right now to fill out the “Insurer Report Card,” aconfidential way for collision repairers to grade the auto insurers in your state. We’ll let consumers know that body shop professionals who interact with insurance companies every day see that some companies deserve an “A”...while others don’t. Visit www.CrashNetwork.com/gradebook The “Insurer Report Card” is brought to you by CRASH Network, the ...a confidential way for collision repairers weekly newsletter that since 1994 has been bringing subscribers to grade the auto insurers in their state. news, information and ideas they won’t find anywhere else. November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 7

college repairing neighbor’s cars at night. slot on WOR 710 radio, “The Voice of ... thriving in tough times After graduating from Kean University New York,” and eventually nationwide with a degree in industrial arts, he taught syndication. Today “The Car Doctor” is shop for eight years, a profession he calls broadcast from Ananian’s state-of-the-art “a privilege.” Along came marriage, kids, home studio and reaches listeners through and thoughts about his next move. He more than 100 station affiliates nation- Continued from page 1 shops never forget that equation. found a location and started R\A Automo- wide. The show’s podcasts, which now cost-of-doing-business spreadsheet and “The auto repair industry absolutely tive, building a business that would earn rank in the top 200 podcasts in the country, figured out his fixed costs — how much amazes me,” said Ananian. “It’s made up accolades including the New Jersey Au- are on track to do a half-million downloads money it takes to open the doors and of some of the smartest, most common- this year. turn on the lights, whether that’s fixing a sense people I’ve ever met in my life. They A prescription for success single vehicle or 100. Then he calculated have so much knowledge on such a broad Ananian points to the immense how many hours a repair shop would be range of topics, but I find that a lot of them responsibility every auto repairer open during the year, and set his labor can’t talk to customers.” must accept when it comes to pro- rate based on that, so that the labor rate is Especially during these uncertain times, viding safe and accurate repairs. both competitive and sufficient enough to when customers have even more anxiety, “A shop has to fix a car like their cover the overhead, new tools, software, Ananian stresses the importance of listen- family is riding in it or next to it, taxes, etc. ing carefully, reading body language, and because we hold that responsibil- “Repair shops now, if they’re smart, being empathetic. He also recommends ity,” Ananian said. “We hold that they’re looking at what their real costs are working with customers to prioritize their person’s life in our hands.” and making sure they’re prepared to ex- short- and long-term vehicle repair needs As to the Car Doctor’s prognosis plain [with detailed notes on labor] why and carefully explaining all the options for the auto repair industry, Ana- they’re charging the rates they charge.” and necessary steps. nian says what he would tell shops As an example, he cites a shop that “My customers know that if they need to remember is that the hardest might be doing $29.95 oil changes to to keep a car running for a few more years tomotive “Mechanical Shop of the Year.” thing to do is to keep your head when ev- compete with the shop down the road, until the son is out of college, they trust me For decades he went to work in the dark eryone around you is losing theirs but doesn’t realize that he’s losing money, to get those extra miles. They know that and come home in the dark. “Now is the time the true professional is because he doesn’t know his real costs or I’ve got their back.” Around 1990, he started teaching night going to rise in the market,” he said. “The what his labor rates should be to cover his But he also cautions about being too classes in automotive shop repair and sell- shops that have trained, that are equipped, overhead. empathetic with the customer who wants ing equipment, eventually with a team that are prepared — they’re going to stand of trainers. One day a student of his who out.” owned a Sunoco gas station said he wanted Listen to or download “The Car Doctor” to do a radio show, and that started “The podcasts on iTunes or iHeart Radio. You Car Doctor” radio program. The show can call “The Car Doctor” hotline with re- quickly grew in popularity and for the next pair questions 24/7 at (855) 560-9900. five years. He did a show every Saturday, “A shop has to fix a car like their building up an enthusiastic following. Sheryl Bussard is a copywriter for ALL- A series of serendipitous life events DATA. family is riding in it or next to it, landed “The Car Doctor” a weekly time because we hold that responsibil- ity,” Ananian said. “We hold that TEXAN DODGE CHRYSLER JEEP RAM 18555 Highway 59 N. person’s life in our hands.” Humble, TX 77338 PARTS WITH ALL Parts Direct: (281) 359-7102 Fax: (281) 359-7171 THE TRIMMINGS www.texandodgechryslerjeep.com

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Mopar® Parts and Remanufactured He also spoke about the hidden costs of to negotiate a discount based on their own Components for all FCA US LLC customers walking in with parts they’ve personal circumstances. THANKSGIVING: vehicles, and Magneti Marelli Offered by Mopar Parts for all bought on Amazon, which he considers “My advice to shops is that you have to other major makes. one of the biggest liabilities facing the in- put the business first; you can’t make cus- ALL MOPAR. Call us today to cool-off ® with one-stop shopping dustry. tomers’ problems yours — there needs to plus speedy delivery. “Let’s say that you, as the profession- be a price of admission into your shop,” NO TURKEYS. ©2020 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, al, put brakes on the car that somebody Ananian said. Mopar and SRT are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC. CHECK OUT MOPARREPAIRCONNECTION.COM FOR RESOURCES, Magneti Marelli is a registered trademark of Magneti Marelli S.p.A. PROMOTIONS AND TECHNICAL INFORMATION. bought on Amazon. Six months later, the Prescribing automotive fixes since 1991 rotor fails, the brakes fail, the driver gets Part of Ananian’s aptitude for automo- killed — a clear case of defective parts,” tive repair comes naturally: his father was 45329_SE11_8th_AR.indd 1 10/27/20 1:29 PM said Ananian “Who are the lawyers go- a lead mechanic for American Airlines ing to sue? The last guy who touched it, during World War II, in charge of President not some obscure manufacturer. So think Franklin Roosevelt’s DC-3 aircraft when- TOMBALL about that before you let customers try to ever it came into La Guardia. talk you into using parts they purchase on “I was that kid sitting on the fender help- Parts: (281) 351-3030 their own. You can’t be making enough ing my dad, handing him tools,” Ananian money to put up with that kind of aggra- said. “I learned my fractions, I learned Toll Free: (800) 324-3673 vation — and liability.” what a straight-blade screwdriver was, a Fax: 1-281-305-7185 Ananian says that one of the best prac- Phillips-head screwdriver.” Our Dealership specializes in Factory-Certified Parts, and we are a Power Stroke tices he’s adopted in recent years is keep- After his father passed away in 1968, Diesel parts and service center. Don’t trust your vehicle with parts that may not have ing a journal right with the order when he Ananian put all his time and attention in been designed for your vehicle. When you purchase parts from our dealership, you can rest assured that you are getting the highest quality parts from experts that know gets involved with a big job. He writes mechanical things. your vehicle. We carry Roush Parts. down exactly what work is performed and “I took apart washing machines. I fixed Traci Mutz| Parts Manager 22702 Tomball Pkwy., Tomball, Texas 77375 how many hours it took. That way, if ques- dishwashers. I fixed mini-bikes, bicycles,” [email protected] www.tomballford.com tions arise, it’s all right there, every detail. he said. “My backyard looked like a junk- Know your customer yard. I liked taking things apart and putting According to Ananian, auto repair is a them back together, making them work.” very human experience, a very emotion- Ananian started working at a gas station al experience, and that successful repair when he was 16 and put himself through 8 South Texas Automotive Report November 2020

Auto racing is in Iowa man’s blood Remanufactured Diesel Engines By KELBY WINGERT

OTHO, Iowa - Racing isn’t just a hobby for Marty Pringle. It’s not just a sport. It’s a lifestyle. It’s in his blood. Choose Ford Remanufactured Diesel Engines Pringle, who lives in Otho and runs the Iowa Hall of Fame and Racing Museum, has been around racing his entire life. OEM Designed for Perfect Fit Every Time - No-Risk Core Return - Bore Spray Technology His father, Jim Pringle, raced cars at the Webster City race track for decades. Same or Next Day Delivery Available - Competitive Prices - Nationwide Limited Warranty Marty Pringle and his brothers all raced in Webster City, too. Both Jim and Marty have been inducted into the Hamilton Coverage* *See your seller for limited-warranty details County Speedway Hall of Fame. “My Dad raced, so it was just natural for me,’’ Pringle told the Fort Dodge Mes- senger. “If I’m not racing, I’m flagging or running the race track or doing something to do with racing.” AUTONATION FORD JORDAN FORD It was that love and passion for the San Antonio, TX sport he grew up around, for the family GULF FREEWAY Houston, TX Parts: (210) 653-4777 Toll Free: (800) 292-5487 Parts: (713) 371-4111 “My Dad raced, so it was Fax: (210) 653-4880 just natural for me,’’ Pringle Toll Free: (800)388-4005 www.jordanford.com told the Fort Dodge Messen- Fax: (713) 371-4048 ger. “If I’m not racing, I’m www.autonationgulffreeway.com flagging or running the race McREE FORD track or doing something to GRANDE TRUCK Dickinson, TX do with racing.” Parts: (281) 337-1541 CENTER Toll Free: (800) 367-3958 San Antonio, TX Fax: (281) 534-2009 he collected along the way, that motivated Parts: (210) 666-7266 Pringle to start a reunion of all the old www.mcreeford.com drivers the senior Pringle raced with over Toll Free: (800) 779-7672 the years. The first reunion was 14 years ago. Fax: (210) 666-7264 Since then, Pringle has created the rac- www.grandetruck.com ing museum, located at 603 Hayes St. in TOMBALL FORD Otho _ a place to showcase and commem- Tomball, TX orate the thousands of racing memorabilia he’s collected over the years. In 2018, the HELFMAN FORD Parts: (281) 351-3030 racing museum also inducted its first class of racers into the Iowa Hall of Fame. Stafford, TX Toll Free: (800) 324-3673 At the museum in Otho, Pringle has PD: (281) 240-7628 Fax: 1-281-305-7185 thousands of items on display, and even more in storage for lack of space. Rac- Toll Free: (800) 634-8008 www.tomballford.com ers and racing families donate or gift the www.helfmanford.com items to the museum in hopes of preserv- ing the racing legacy in central Iowa. [email protected] “The racing community is a whole differ- ent group,” he said. Unlike sports like basketball or base- ball, where athletes head into the locker rooms at the end of the game, Pringle said race car drivers often spend time with their fans, getting to know them and forming relationships. And it’s not just stock car racing that the museum honors. Pringle also collects items from drag racing, figure 8 racing and motorcycle racing. Signed motocross jerseys from Fort Dodge’s Gavin Faith and Justin Brayton are also displayed in the museum. There’s so much stuff that’s been col- lected for the museum, that Pringle and November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 9

the museum’s board of directors have been looking for a new permanent loca- tion for a larger building for the items. Pringle can usually be found in his garage next to the museum, tinkering on the next race car he’s working on restor- ing. The racing aficionado is always eager to show visitors his collection of helmets Remanufactured Diesel Engines and fire suits, the tens of thousands of photos for which he’s working on iden- tifying the subjects, and the dozens of trophies. He’s even got an original pay Choose Ford Remanufactured Diesel Engines out sheet from 1957 from the Fort Dodge Sports Park track. One of Pringle’s most prized posses- OEM Designed for Perfect Fit Every Time - No-Risk Core Return - Bore Spray Technology sions is the 1934 Ford Coupe his father used to race. Pringle has the old car restored and running. In 2014, he was Same or Next Day Delivery Available - Competitive Prices - Nationwide Limited Warranty featured in an episode of the History Channel’s ``American Pickers,’’ where he raced one of the hosts in that old car. Coverage* *See your seller for limited-warranty details “Racing is just a natural high,” Pringle said. “I’ve always said racing is worse than any drug you could take because once it’s there, it don’t go away and it costs more than drugs.” While visiting with the “Pickers,” Prin- AUTONATION FORD JORDAN FORD gle stumbled upon an old “Otho’s” sign, San Antonio, TX which now hangs proudly from a pole in GULF FREEWAY front of Pringle’s home. Houston, TX Parts: (210) 653-4777 “It’s from Louisiana in the 1940s,” he Toll Free: (800) 292-5487 said. They’ve never figured out what the Parts: (713) 371-4111 sign was originally made for, but it fits Fax: (210) 653-4880 in just fine in this small Webster County Toll Free: (800)388-4005 www.jordanford.com town. (AP) • Fax: (713) 371-4048 www.autonationgulffreeway.com Ohio tells GM to repay McREE FORD tax break after it shut GRANDE TRUCK Dickinson, TX Parts: (281) 337-1541 down plant CENTER Toll Free: (800) 367-3958 San Antonio, TX LORDSTOWN, Ohio — General Mo- Fax: (281) 534-2009 tors must repay roughly half of a $60 mil- Parts: (210) 666-7266 www.mcreeford.com lion tax incentive package because of its Toll Free: (800) 779-7672 broken promise to keep open its assembly plant near Youngstown, a state agency Fax: (210) 666-7264 said recently. www.grandetruck.com The Ohio Tax Credit Authority also said GM must invest $12 million in workforce TOMBALL FORD and education needs near the former Lord- Tomball, TX stown plant, which the automaker closed Parts: (281) 351-3030 last year. HELFMAN FORD An economic development deal from Stafford, TX Toll Free: (800) 324-3673 more than a decade ago gave GM millions in tax breaks in exchange for keeping the PD: (281) 240-7628 Fax: 1-281-305-7185 Lordstown plant operating at least through Toll Free: (800) 634-8008 www.tomballford.com 2027. State officials told the automaker in March that the plant’s closing violated the www.helfmanford.com agreement. [email protected] GM said in a statement that it has a large manufacturing presence in Ohio, noting that it is currently building a new electric battery cell factory in Lordstown next to the site of the much larger assembly plant it shut down in March 2019 after more than 50 years of production. The battery plant will create about 1,100 jobs, while GM employed 4,500 workers at the assembly plant when it was running three shifts a few years ago. The state tax credit authority approved a 15-year job creation tax credit for the bat- tery plant. The former assembly plant, meanwhile, has since been sold to a start-up com- pany that intends to make electric pickup trucks. (AP) • 10 South Texas Automotive Report November 2020 Shop Profile

of time in this or that department, X amount At 18,000 square feet, the new facility is of time being put back together.” probably twice the size of the old shop. And each time a car moves from body to “And it’s laid out quite a bit differently,” paint, then to reassembly, finally to detail, a Sutherland commented. “Everything here notification is sent to the customer, keeping is wide open; the other shop was cut up them in the loop. into little sections where they had added “Then we’ve got a call list like every on here and there over the years — it was two days, telling us what customers to call like a puzzle. You were running all around so when can tell where their vehicle is at, to get stuff done. Now everybody’s in one what we’re doing, etc.,” Sutherland said. space and there’s great work flow.” The jobs in the shop break down into With this clean slate, Sutherland and his four body men, a detailer, and one painter. crew were able to set up the shop the way Up front there’s an office manager, an estimator, a parts manager, and Sutherland. For his part, Sutherland wasn’t with the shop those first few months in Johnson City. He was working at the Kingsport store when Joe Hudson’s bought it, but then the Covid-19 quarantine was enforced, and he was temporarily furloughed. “We slowed down when it first hit, but now we’re picking back up to pre-Covid levels,” he Shop manager Jason Sutherland explained. “And when they brought me back I made the jump to Johnson City. I came in they wanted. at the end of April as an estimator/manager, “Me, the painters and the body men, we then became the shop manager.” all got together and decided where to put Sutherland’s own professional career in the frame machine, where to put the lifts, the industry began in 1997, when he started where their stalls were going to be, the at a dealership as a detailer. Working his paint booth, all that stuff. I can take one way up through the ranks, his most perti- look out my window and see what every- nent experience was as a service advisor body’s doing.” and body shop manager, but this still didn’t While Joe Hudson’s presence on the quite prepare him for overseeing the move Motor Mile puts them in proximity to some from the old shop to the brand new one. of the city’s bigger dealerships, Suther- “It was a stressful few days,” Sutherland land reported that most of the corpora- said, laughing. “We actually did it the week tion’s business comes from being a direct before last. Had to make sure everything repair shop for nearly all the major insur- was working like it needed to be, and get ance companies. One exception is a Nis- everybody set up in their space. Of course san dealer, for whom they’ve started doing Joe Hudson’s had some people up here to warranty work. Joe Hudson’s Collision Center located in Johnson City, TN help pack equipment.” “I worked with them in the past, and Corporate muscle — literally. And once they found out I was here, they started there’s the equipment itself. sending work down here to us,” he admit- By Robert Bravender Sutherland. “Anything that we might possibly need, ted. “But I think it all works the same; you The staff also rolled over in what Joe Hudson’s makes sure we have it,” he try to get the car in, get it fixed right, and Have you ever walked into a shop to find amounted to a turnkey operation. proclaimed. “The pinch welder, for exam- out the door, as quickly as possible.” it’s been open only a week? Well, in this “They kept a lot of the people from the ple; that was a major investment. Like if While a big company like Joe Hud- new facility, at least, that was the case. original shop, and that helps,” noted Suther- you’re putting a roof skin on a car, that’s son’s can’t build that kind a local reputa- Joe Hudson’s Collision Center, Inc., is land. “They just retrained the personnel on the tool you need. The frame machine, of tion overnight, they do have resources actually a regional chain of state-of-the- Joe Hudson’s way of doing things.” course, a Chief.” Continued on page 15 art body shops that’s been around since For the I-CAR-certified technicians, a lot 1989. Based out of Montgomery, Ala., they of that involved documentation. currently have 113 stores in eleven states, “For instance, if you weld a quarter and recently expanded into the Tri-Cities panel on a car, we take pictures of all the ORIGINAL. region of Tennessee. welds before they’re roughed up or any- “I think they moved into the area at the thing, to document what we did,” he cited. JUST LIKE OUR PARTS. first of this year with the Kingsport store,” “If we’re bondo-ing a panel, we’ll actually said shop manager Jason Sutherland. get a picture of it going together, and then “Around that same time they also bought a picture of the bonding material that we’re the Johnson City one.” Eventually a store using. We use AllData, and it will give us in Bristol was purchased, making a clean the exact locations of each weld, and what sweep of the Tri-Cities. of materials to use.” As it happened, the store in Johnson City They also use an integrated program Mopar Parts. There’s nothing like them. was a package deal; besides the original called RTS, which Joe Hudson’s had cus- ® ED PAYNE MOTORS shop, located in a cove off the municipal- tom-made for the company. Compared to aftermarket replacement parts, Mopar Collision Parts offer better fit, function ity’s Motor Mile, the previous owner had “Say a body technician logs onto a car and reliability. What an original concept. 2101 E. Expressway 83 also recently bought an empty lot right on when they start on it, and log off when it Weslaco, TX 78596 the road itself. goes to the paint department,” Sutherland Parts Direct: (956) 447-6387 “He already had plans to build a new said. “Then the painter does the same, log- Fax: (956) 968-1851 ©2020 FCA US LLC. All Rights Reserved. Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep, Ram, Mopar and SRT are registered trademarks of FCA US LLC. FIAT is a registered trademark of www.paynedodgechrysler.com shop here, and that just rolled over to Joe ging on and off the car as they work on it. FCA Group Marketing S.p.A., used under license by FCA US LLC. Hudson’s as part of the sale,” reported That way we can tell a car spent X amount

52382_COL20_8th_AR.indd 1 10/27/20 11:29 AM November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 11

motive technology classes practice on the eral funding for vocational training has ‘Not just shop class:’ teacher same car month after month. At Gulfport, dropped 35%. students learn in part by repairing par- There’s been something of a resurgence ents’, teachers’ and other students’ cars in career and technical education in the wins $50,000 award for free. last several years, but Caylor’s colleague The class does about $30,000 in free Dave Huffman still feels there is a stigma By ISABELLE TAFT pared in Caylor’s honor, with frosting auto repair work every year, Caylor esti- against skilled trades classes. Huffman trim in Gulfport High’s blue and orange. mated. and fellow teacher Patrick Wadsworth GULFPORT, Miss. - For nearly 15 Senior Charles Nobles said he plans to go In his shop, a beat-up 1970 Mustang won the Tools for Schools teaching award years, Robert Caylor has taught Gulf- to college and wants to be able to fix his is one of the vehicles hanging from the three years ago. port High students how to repair cars own cars for the rest of his life. ceiling in the open space. This is Project “People think it’s just for kids who aren’t and watched as they started careers as Junior Eric Mitchell wants to join the Mustang, launched around Christmas last going to college,” Huffman said. “It’s not mechanics all over the Coast, but on Oct. Air Force, and thinks the training he’s year. The goal is to replace all the old just shop class, it’s more than that.” 14, he was rewarded in a different and getting from Caylor’s class will help him parts and carefully restore the body. To date, all three of Mississippi’s win- surprising way. as a pilot or engineer. “We’re going to make it Cruisin’ The ners of the teaching prize are Gulfport Caylor got $50,000 from the Harbor And Dhafir Freeman, a junior, wants Coast worthy,” Caylor said. High teachers, Walsh said. Freight Tools for Schools Prize for Teach- to become a mechanic. Caylor’s class is Along with the money, Caylor will ing Excellence. The prizes honor skilled showing him what that might look like. A NATIONAL HONOR receive an all-expenses-paid trip to Los trades teachers at public schools around “I’m not really academically secure, so The honor Caylor received was Angeles every summer (COVID-19-per- the country. Caylor is one of just 18 win- I’m just trying to make a way in life,” he launched in 2017 by Eric Smidt, the mitting) for a conference with other win- ners nationwide, selected from more than said. “We learn something new every- founder of tool retailer Harbor Freight ners of the award from around the coun- 600 applicants this year. day.” Tools. The aim is to honor teachers of try. Caylor learned he had won in a surprise skilled trades, who have long provided Huffman said the conference is an ceremony at school. Students lined the TEACHING AND SERVING diverse opportunities for high school stu- opportunity to learn from diverse col- hall outside his classroom and cheered as Why did Caylor become a high school dents. leagues. This year’s conference was vir- he returned from the cafeteria. He said he teacher? The short answer is Hurricane “We really believe skilled teachers are tual, but he and Wadsworth came away was smiling underneath his face mask. Katrina. The storm destroyed his auto unsung heroes,” said Erin Walsh, consult- with at least one idea they could imple- “Watching the kids grow up, I see them shop and his home. His son was a stu- ing program director of Harbor Freight ment at Gulfport: tool bags that virtual from the time they’re really young and dent at Gulfport High at the time, and the Tools for Schools, who Zoomed into the students could check out to work on proj- have never held a tool, to the time they’re school had an opening for an automotive ceremony for Caylor. “They don’t get the ects at home. professional mechanics,” he said. technology teacher. Caylor applied and recognition they deserve.” Caylor will receive $15,000 from the Unlike many classes that last for just started working in 2006. A recent article in EducationNext prize, and the rest will support Gulfport part of a school year, Caylor’s students Over the years, he’s built relationships explains that over the last few decades, High’s skilled trades classes. study with him for their junior and senior with local companies so he can tailor his vocational education programs in Ameri- He said he hasn’t decided exactly what years. They learn technical skills that they teaching to the skills that will make his can schools have declined, largely due to he’ll do with his winnings. But a fence can use for the rest of their lives, whether students competitive for jobs after gradu- anxieties about academic performance around his yard for his three dogs to or not they pursue a career in mechanics ation. He invites guest speakers to intro- starting in the 1980s. Schools increased run around and lots of toys for two new or engineering. duce his students to particular skills, like academic requirements for students grandchildren are probably in the works. Three of Caylor’s current students bodywork. and reduced opportunities for skill- and (AP) • stood in line for pieces of the cake pre- At many high schools, students in auto- career-focused classes. Since 1985, fed-

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By Jenna Fryer Richard Petty won at the half-mile State By FCA Press Release the crown as Tommy Johnson Jr. and Ron Fairgrounds Speedway in Raleigh on Sep- Capps also remain in the mix. CHARLOTTE, N.C. — NASCAR tember 30, 1970. Don Schumacher Racing (DSR) wheel- From his No. 1 seeded position on the promised radical changes to the 2021 The March 28 dirt race will replace man Jack Beckman earned his third win eliminations ladder, Hagan drove his spe- schedule and they delivered with six road Bristol’s traditional spring race on the of the 2020 National Hot Rod Association cial edition Pennzoil paint scheme Dodge courses, the first dirt race for the Cup Se- concrete as NASCAR chose the track over (NHRA) Drag Racing Series season at Charger SRT Hellcat through elimina- ries since 1970 and new stops in Nash- dozens of existing and proven dirt tracks the 35th annual AAA Texas FallNationals tions with wins over Todd Simpson, J.R. ville, Tennessee, and Austin, Texas. across the country. The most noticeable over Funny Car points leader Matt Hagan Todd and teammate Capps to advance Dropped from the lineup were Ken- snub was to the Tony Stewart-owned El- in an all-Dodge final. The win by Beck- to his fourth final round appearance of tucky Speedway and Chicagoland Speed- dora Speedway in Ohio, which hosted the man extends his team’s undefeated streak the year. Despite the loss to Beckman, way, two “cookie-cutter” intermediate Truck Series from 2013 until this year’s to a NHRA record 12 consecutive Funny Hagan’s runner-up finishes in back-to tracks that were part of a staid schedule race was canceled by the pandemic. Car victories which DSR has maintained back events have helped him maintain the that lacked variation or originality. Michi- NASCAR scheduled a full release of since last year’s event at Texas Motor- points lead. gan International Speedway, Dover In- the 2021 lineup later, but individual tracks plex. “All-in-all another really good day ternational Speedway and Texas Motor began announcing their plans earlier. Beckman made his way to the final here at Dallas for this Pennzoil/Mopar Speedway each lost one of two Cup Series Kentucky Speedway is off the schedule elimination round by defeating Cruz team,” said Hagan who made his third points races. for the first time since 2011. The original Pedregon, Tim Wilkerson and Bob Tasca. final round appearance at Texas following Atlanta Motor Speedway and Darling- owners of the track in Sparta filed a fed- He scored his first-ever victory at the Dal- wins in 2016 and 2019. “(Jack) Beckman ton Speedway in South Carolina each eral lawsuit against NASCAR for the right las track earning a Wally trophy, the 33rd just had a little better day. They have a added a second race to their schedules. to host a Cup Series race and the fight Indianapolis Motor Speedway will dragged on from 2005 until 2009. Speed- move the Cup Series cars to its road course way Motorsports eventually bought the

Bristol will also experiment with a dirt race by filling the 0.533-mile bullring with dirt for the first race of its kind since Rich- ard Petty won at the half-mile State Fair- grounds Speedway in Raleigh on Septem- ber 30, 1970. after 27 years of racing on the big oval. property and moved a race to Kentucky in The revamped “Brickyard Weekend” also 2011. will feature a new IndyCar Series race, The battle to land Cup races has long making it a doubleheader for the second been difficult as NASCAR controlled year in a row. the schedule and tracks paid sanctioning Indinapolis joins Road America in rural fees to host events. Because NASCAR Wisconsin and the Circuit of the Americas also owned most of the major facilities, it in Austin as new road course events on a controlled the market and dictated which schedule that already included Sonoma tracks got Cup races. (Calif.) Raceway, Watkins Glen (N.Y.) Legal challenges began in 2002 when and the Charlotte Roval. NASCAR for a Texas man named Francis Ferko filed decades ran at just two road courses eac a lawsuit demanding a second race at season and will now have six to satisfy Texas Motor Speedway. The suit dragged of his career, and the track’s signature great race car, but we have a great race fans who have begged for more diversity on until settlement talks between Speed- cowboy hat with a 0.070-second reac- car too. We’ve been keeping pace and on the schedule. way Motorsports, owner of Texas Motor tion time and 3.908 second pass at 328.46 we’re going to keep doing our thing for Speedway Motorsports will promote Speedway, and International Speedway mph to out run Hagan’s 0.069-sec. start the next two races and see how this thing the road course event at COTA after mov- Corp., the arm of NASCAR that con- and 3.943 sec./324.20 mph effort. plays out. I’m super excited we get to do ing its traditional spring date at Texas Mo- trolled its properties, delivered a second “Maybe the best weekend ever,” said it again in a few days at Houston next tor Speedway in Fort Worth to the venue. race to Fort Worth. Beckman. “I mean doubling up at Indy weekend. We have a lot of momentum. To compensate for the loss of the points Little has changed to the schedule since in 2015 is going to be awfully hard to The team is working great. The guys are race at TMS, Speedway Motorsports has Kentucky was added, and in 2015 NAS- exceed, but I so wanted to win at Dal- doing a great job. We just have a little moved the All-Star race from Charlotte to CAR signed five-year sanctioning agree- las. My dad (Bob Beckman) lives close more work to do.” Fort Worth. ments with the tracks that guaranteed race to here and he’s been supporting me my Winner of the Mopar Express Lane “Everything is bigger in Texas, includ- dates through 2020. The contracts left whole career and he’s 83-years-old. That NHRA Midwest Nationals near St. Louis ing our passion for NASCAR and NAS- little room for overhaul, but NASCAR un- might have been my last shot at Dallas earlier this fall, No. 2 seed Johnson Jr. CAR will be even bigger and better in derstood fans had grown disgruntled with and it’s going to be extra special to give was looking to go rounds in his MD Texas in 2021 with the addition of this the same old schedule. him that cowboy hat from the (Texas) Anderson Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat race in Austin,” Texas Gov. Greg Abbott NASCAR vowed to address it in 2021, Motorplex. It’s perfect. I don’t know that and keep the battle for the championship said. the first year after the contracts expired. I’ve ever had a better weekend at a drag as close as possible heading into the final The All-Star race began in 1985 and The pandemic this season forced a slew strip than this.” two races of the season that will conclude was held at Charlotte Motor Speedway of changes, including doubleheader week- With just two national events remain- with a “points-and-a-half” format at the every year but one until this season, when ends, midweek races and a shared week- ing to determine a Funny Car world season finale. Unfortunately, Johnson the pandemic caused a relocation to Bris- end with IndyCar. champion, the victory keeps the Infinite saw his racecar lose tire adhesion in the tol Motor Speedway in East Tennessee. The 2021 schedule has no midweek Hero Dodge Charger SRT Hellcat driver quarterfinals against Bob Tasca and lost Bristol will also experiment with a dirt races on it because television ratings did within four markers of the category leader a little traction in the points as well while race by filling the 0.533-mile bullring not match the perceived fan enthusiasm Hagan and also keeps fans guessing as to remaining third in the standings. (AP) • with dirt for the first race of its kind since for Wednesday nights. (AP) • which of the four DSR drivers might take November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 13

Tweet lures Camping World in Bowyer to retire and move as new NHRA title sponsor to Fox NASCAR coverage

By Jenna Fryer undervalued and underserved.” By AP Wire Service all share the same passion to be first on The banter between Lemonis, the Sunday. It was truly an honor to represent CHARLOTTE, N.C. (AP) — Marcus NHRA, its competitors and fans at first CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Clint Bowyer all three.” Lemonis first learned the NHRA drag rac- appeared to be playful with perhaps some will retire at the end of the NASCAR sea- He replaced Tony Stewart in the No. 14 ing series had abruptly lost its title spon- potential. son and join the Fox Sports booth as an Ford at SHR when Stewart retired after sor via Twitter and used the same social “It was really me flirting more than analyst. the 2016 season. But his future with the media platform to alert the league he was anything else,” Lemonis said. In a two-page letter posted to Twitter on organization has been in question because interested in helping. Then he began to research the series, Oct. 8, the 41-year-old driver announced Chase Briscoe, a Ford development driver Lemonis tweeted on Sept. 22 to NHRA had conversations with industry insiders, he will be moving full-time into televi- in the Xfinity Series for SHR, is looking that Camping World isn’t “scared of our studied attendance and ratings figures, sion. for a Cup Series ride. commitment to racing... let’s sit down and sent a team to the Gatornationals in “Now I get to the point of what I want to After a dominating win in the Kansas and talk sponsorship.” Just 12 days later, Florida just three days after the Twit- tell you,” he wrote. “I have a new opportu- Lottery 300 at Kansas Speedway on Oct. NHRA announced a multi-year partner- ter relationship began. Lemonis was not nity to do what’s next in my life. In 2021 17, Briscoe is locked into the finals for the ship with Camping World as its new title interested in marketing to one audience, my suit will no longer be fireproof. I will Xfinity championship. sponsor. and if drag racing catered to NASCAR be joining the Fox booth on Sundays.“ Bowyer has 10 career Cup wins and “This is the power of social media, customers he already served, there was Bowyer is a popular veteran who has finished a career-best second in the 2012 it really is. Welcome to 2020,” NHRA no reason to move forward. won races for Ford, Chevrolet and Toyota standings. He’s made the playoffs in each President Glen Cromwell said. “Marcus “I was shocked at how the reports during his career with Richard Childress of the last three seasons. is extremely good at positioning himself came back in almost every instance that Racing, Michael Waltrip Racing and now Bowyer has also had an increased role and his company in a great light on social the audience and the viewership was dif- Stewart-Haas Racing. He won the 2008 in Fox’s coverage of NASCAR and at the media and he took advantage of a great ferent,” Lemonis said. “I had photos and Xfinity title for RCR. start of the pandemic was an in-studio opportunity, probably within 24 hours of videos provided to me from Gainesville “The opportunity to have won races analyst at the same time he was participat- the news.” that showed there are far more families with all three manufacturers is some- ing in the televised iRacing events. Fox Lemonis took notice the same day and multi-generational families. grand- thing I’m proud of,” he wrote in his let- dropped to a two-person booth this year of NHRA filed suit against sponsor Coca- parents, parents, kids, all around campers. ter. “Chevrolet, Toyota and Ford all have Mike Joy and Jeff Gordon following the great people and build great products and retirement of Darrell Waltrip. (AP) •

The NHRA sponsorship issue was NASCAR championship winning tagged to him on Twitter by another crew chief Knaus gets VP job user and he immediately began his due diligence. By AP Wire Service Hendrick split Knaus and Johnson at the end of 2018 and Knaus has spent the last CHARLOTTE, N.C. — Chad Knaus two years as crew chief for Byron and the will move into a management role with No. 24 team, which is where Knaus began Cola after Coke severed its 19-year spon- And I was very impressed by the amount Hendrick Motorsports after the season, his career under Ray Evernham in 1993. sorship agreement that ran through 2023. of diversity, both in gender and race.” ending his crew chief career after a record- Knaus has taken a driver to the playoffs The suit alleges Coca-Cola, which mar- Lemonis brokers deals directly and he tying seven NASCAR championships. 17 times and is the all-time leading play- keted various products during the deal, rapidly closed the deal. He has seen social Hendrick announced Knaus will be- off crew chief with 29 wins. Last month, “seized on global tragedy, the COVID-19 media reaction accusing him of “dump- come vice president of competition. He Knaus called his 700th career Cup-level pandemic, as a pretext” to walk away to ster diving,” but defended his business will replace Jeff Andrews, who has been race. save money. strategy. Lemonis said he must act in the in the role since 2017 but was elevated to “Starting at a young age, I wanted to NHRA, like most businesses, has had best interest of shareholders and employ- executive vice president and general man- win every race we entered and battle for a turbulent season while navigating the ees, just as the NHRA is required. ager. every championship. Mr. Hendrick has pandemic. The schedule of 24 events “If you want to be opportunistic in Knaus will oversee the technical devel- given me the chance to do exactly that, was decimated by cancellations, teams business and have it work for both sides, opment of Hendrick’s entire Chevrolet and I could not be more thankful to him,“ struggled to make budgets work and John you do things quickly,” he said. stable of race cars and lead the implemen- Knaus said. Force, the immensely popular 16-time The new sponsorship was announced tation of the “Next Gen” car set to debut A father of two young children, the Funny Car champion, sidelined his four- during the Midwest Nationals and Camp- in 2022. Knaus will also oversee all crew 49-year-old Knaus said the move will car organization when racing resumed in ing World immediately assumed NHRA’s chiefs, pit crews, engineering, fabrication, grant him family time for the first time in July. naming rights. NHRA, five days before it assembly and other team-related staff. his life. Johnson is retiring from full-time This season will ultimately have just 11 lost Coca-Cola, had reached a multi-year He guided Jimmie Johnson to seven competition at the end of the season. events and the abrupt and unexpected loss extension with Fox across its networks Cup Series championships and won 82 “After all these years, my competitive of the title sponsor was going to be a sig- for the biggest television platform in the races, most recently the August regular- desire has not changed at all, but now I nificant blow. sport’s history. Just days later, NHRA season finale at Daytona with William By- have a family that deserves my attention,” Then Lemonis took notice. released a 22-race schedule for next sea- ron. Knaus said. Camping World has sponsored NAS- son. Knaus built the No. 48 team around Knaus will report to Andrews, who has CAR’s Truck Series since 2009 and Lem- What could have been a disastrous year Johnson in 2002 and the duo was paired been with Hendrick Motorsports since onis is already a significant contributor for NHRA is now three events away from through the 2018 season. They won a re- 1992. He previously held a variety of to the motorsports industry. The NHRA its conclusion. Limited spectators have cord five consecutive titles from 2006 to leadership positions in the team’s engine sponsorship issue was tagged to him on been permitted and the series takes pride 2010, and only Hall of Fame crew chiefs department, including director of engine Twitter by another user and he immedi- in how well it adapted during the pan- Dale Inman and Leonard Wood have more operations. ately began his due diligence. demic. race victories than Knaus. Andrews will now oversee all compe- “I do spend a lot of time working with “Our stakeholders, our fans, our race “In life, it’s rare to witness true excel- tition-related departments, including pow- people that want some help,” Lemonis teams, our track partners and our spon- lence first-hand, but that’s precisely what ertrain, manufacturing and racing opera- said. “We all need help. I need help in sors have all really come together to we’ve been treated to with Chad,“ team tions. (AP) • my businesses, I need more customers; understand the challenges we’ve faced in owner Rick Hendrick said. they need help in their business, they 2020,” Cromwell said. “That’s allowed us need more customers. And I’m attracted to race this year, provide great racing for to things that are in crisis. I am a person our fans and really set a springboard into www.AutomotiveReport.net that likes to look for the things that look 2021.” (AP) • 14 South Texas Automotive Report November 2020

Rearview

1961 Ghia Dual

Photo by Jay Hirsch

By Jay Hirsch were sent to Turin where the main frame Dodge and Chrysler vehicles were unit tires when new. Wide white walls were not was cut according to the engineered speci- body cars, as opposed to a chassis on sepa- in vogue any longer. Most new cars leave the factory on giant fications of Cassaroll. rate frame automobile. This engineering As for the ride, the Ghia is more mod- transport trucks, which is an industry unto The custom-bodied cars were then sent made it almost impossible to send a chas- ern than a car that is almost 60 years old. itself. One of the pioneers in that business back to Detroit where the engine and sis to Turin, Italy, to have a custom body With its low height, 383 cid V-8, and tor- was Gene Cassaroll of Detroit. drive-train, the interior trim, and all power installed upon the frame. Though much sion bar suspension, the car is right at home During WWII Cassaroll had a con- accessories were added to the car. The car of the original Dual Ghia design features on any highway cruising at 75 to 80 mph. tract with the government to transport had a price of $7,600. In 1957 this was a were incorporated into the new Ghia. The Ghia has Girling disc brakes in front huge bomber fuselages. For this work he high price for a car with no proven back- The next generation Dual Ghia, 1961– with drum brakes in the rear, so stopping devised a truck with two engines using ground. A Cadillac or Lincoln convertible 1963, called simply Ghia, received a minor the 4,000 pound car is not a problem as mostly Dodge parts. From the use of two was about $5,300. Production was halted face lift. The rear tail fin was eliminated compared to pre-1970 cars that had drum engines came the name Dual Motors. in 1958 with 117 cars produced — all but and the parking lights were mounted inside brakes at all four wheels. The Connolly Cassaroll, being a car guy, had a vision two were convertibles. The cars were sold of the grill, adjacent to the headlights. The hide leather seats are soft to the touch and of a personal luxury-type car for the Amer- mainly to Hollywood celebrities. Among front and rear bumpers became more slen- firm when sitting in them. This Ghia is an ican car market in the late 1950s, based owners of the 1957–1958 Dual Ghia’s der, and the Ghia had minimal amounts of original car with just minor engine work loosely on the early 1950s show cars of were Frank Sinatra, Peter Lawford, Lucille chrome that did not serve a function. done — water pump rebuilt, the transmis- Dodge, the Fire Arrow and Firebomb. Cas- Ball, and Ronald Reagan. The 1961 Ghia model is commonly sion resealed due to the aging of rubber saroll contacted Ghia Auto Body works in In 1961 Casserole decided to revive the known as the L6.4, as it was powered by components, battery replacement, and nor- Turin, Italy, to make this vision into reality. Ghia. The difference this time being the Chrysler’s OHV V-8 383 cubic-inch/6.3- mal maintenance as needed. Cassaroll hired Paul Farrago, from Detroit, car was produced entirely in Italy in hopes liter engine with 2-4 bbls. The car was The Ghia holds four very comfortably in to rework the two-seat Fire Arrow into the of reducing the cost and expenses of ship- offered as a hardtop coupe only, as seen those leather wrapped seats, and visibility car that could hold some friends or fam- ping the chassis to Italy and then having here. is excellent for the driver with a windshield ily members. Farrago was an Italian-born it shipped back to Detroit to be fitted out The 1961 Ghia weighed in a 4,000 that is not sloped at an extreme angle, mechanic, stylist, and race car driver. mechanically. pounds, was rear-wheel drive, and the 383 which puts the header of the windshield The cars were to be based on the Dodge Another reason why the Ghia was now V-8, rated at 335 hp, was mated to a Torque directly in front of your eyes. Chassis with a D-500 engine. The chassis made entirely in Italy was that in 1960 all Flite three-speed automatic. The Ghia rides The occupants have the vast expanse of on 7.10 x 15 tires, is 210 inches long, 75 glass to look out onto the passing scenery inches wide and 52 inches in height — without craning their necks and there is Cavender Chevrolet which is more in line with some new lux- room in the trunk for a week’s worth of Parts Direct (210) 477-8300 • (800) 889-8220 • Fax (210) 477-2968 ury performance cars than an early 1960s luggage/bags for four people. American cruiser. Torsion bars were used In hopes of making a profit this time in the front with leaf springs in the rear. around, the price of the 1961 Ghia was To put the price of $15,000 for the Ghia now $15,000, which did not help in the in perspective, in 1961 the average cost of marketing of the car. Problems also began a home was $12,500, the average cost of a to rise at Turin, and overhead costs contin- new car was $2,850, and gas was 27 cents ued to soar. Production was halted in 1963 a gallon. with just 26 cars being produced. Michael, who owns this Ghia, “likes all In a late 1950s Dell’s New Guide a cars” but has a penchant for low produc- description of the Ghia ends with “we pre- tion, custom-built, sporty-type cars of the dict that this car will be the forerunner of 1950s and early 1960s. Michael also has a many new ideas in fine cars.” www.cavenderchevrolet.com preference for the wide white walls which The Ghia was about 45 years too early. • were used on cars in the 1950s and started Genuine GM Parts By The Truck Load to be fazed out in 1961 on many new cars. This articles and pictures can not be repro- 30700 Interstate 10 W. Boerne, TX 78006 By 1963 all American cars now had the duced without written permission by the narrow one inch white wall or black wall author. November 2020 South Texas Automotive Report 15

... Joe Hudson’s Collision Center Car built in Washington state sets a world record at 316 mph Continued from page 10 kind of trouble codes in the vehicle before most shops only dream of, like a regional we start, and then when we’re done it will BELLINGHAM, Wash. — A Washington state car company says it’s set a world review board which functions essentially help us see if there was something we record after its newest vehicle reached an average speed of 316 mph (510 kph) as a buffer between the shop and the insur- caused, or something wreck-related that along a highway in Nevada. ance companies. we wouldn’t have seen because there were Guinness World Records said Richland-based SSC North America’s Tuatara “When we write an estimate,” explained no trouble lights on, but there was a trouble model is the fastest production car, The Bellingham Herald reported. Set Oct. 10, Sutherland, “before it goes to the insur- code in the vehicle. That’s a big help with the milestone surpasses the 278 mph (447 kph) reached by Swedish car company ance company, it goes to actual Joe Hud- safety, and it’ll tell us if any cameras need Koenigsegg Automotive in 2017. son people who have worked for the insur- to be calibrated.” The world record takes the average of times driven during the attempt. British Such calibration still has race car driver Oliver Webb, 29, reached a top speed of 331 mph (533 kph) during to be done through the his last pass along Highway 160 in Pahrump, Nevada. dealerships, however. “Accomplishing a feat of engineering that pushes the limits of a road-legal car “You’ve got to have like by a margin this large is both exciting and inconceivable, even to me,`` Webb said. 40 feet of space around “We are entering a time when we are no longer faced by the limit of machines, but the vehicle to set up the by the human factor.” targets for these cam- Company owner Jerod Shelby said it was “monumental” for him and his eras,” noted Suther- 24-employee company. land. “I try to keep a SSC North America announced its second-model Tuatara in 2011 and started good working relation- production in 2019. The car is being sold for $1.9 million, and only a dozen are ship with all the dealers expected to be produced this year. (AP) • because of that. We can get a backlog some- times, and I’ll call them up and say ‘we’re hur- tin’.” The company they use for the post repair stands also has a mobile cali- Body shop technician Bo Clark sanding a truck bed. bration unit in the Knox- ville market. “And supposedly ance companies, like adjustors, etc. They they’re getting one together in this area go through and double check our estimates where we could call them and have them and make sure that we got everything right come out and aim whatever needs to be for the insurance companies. aimed, calibrated, etc. Then we wouldn’t “They’ll send it back to us, and they’ll have to be dependent on the dealers to get say ‘correct this,’ or ‘great job,’ or ‘get them in and out, and help our cycle time.” better photographs,’ stuff you wouldn’t In the meantime, Sutherland feels confi- have thought of when you’re an indepen- dent with the resources at his disposal. dent,” he continued. “That team double “The biggest thing here is I’ve got an checks everything we do, which is a great army behind me,” he emphasized. “If I run resource, because it helps us know we’re into a problem car, I can call one of the doing it right.” guys that do the reviews and he’ll call the And since there’s no waiting for an insurance company and say ‘Hey, this is adjustor to come out, this helps speed up what we’ve got.’ Or if the insurance com- the process for the customer. pany wants us to repair something versus “On every repair we have a pre-repair replacing it, we’ve got the muscle behind stand and a post-repair stand,” Sutherland us to get done what needs to be done for the explained. “That will tell us if there is any repair of the vehicle.” •

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