GEARS does not endorse new products but makes this new information available to readers. If you have a new product, please send the press release information with applicable photo or drawing to GEARS, 2400 Latigo Avenue, Oxnard, CA 93030.

HARTMANN NAMED TO RAYBESTOS TECH TEAM

Ronnie Hartmann, President of R.D. Hartmann, Inc., was recently named to the Raybestos Technical Advisory Team. The team is responsible for innovative designs, changes and improvements to the Raybestos line of performance linings.

R.D. Hartmann, Inc., is the parent company of ART CARR PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS (high performance transmissions and torque converters) and TORCO (remanufactured torque converters). Ronnie designed and sells the aftermarket Ford E40D billet front cover, which drew the attention of engineers at Jasper Engines and Transmissions, the largest non-OEM remanufacturer in the U.S. R.D. Hartmann, Inc. quickly became the biggest converter supplier for Jasper, and was recently named as their "Preferred Vendor of the Year."

In October of 2000, R.D. Hartmann, Inc., purchased ART CARR PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS, and moved the production facility to Abilene, TX, while keeping the sales staff in Reno, NV. They offer a wide range of high performance transmission parts, transmissions and torque converters.
 

ATC REPORTS ON-TRACK THIRD-QUARTER
EARNINGS & LOGISTICS WIN

Mike DuBose, Chairman, President and CEO of Aftermarket Technology Corp. (ATC), recently announced further improvements in the outlook for the third quarter, 2001, and reaffirmed they are on track to achieve $1.50 EPS. "The improvements we continue to make in our business combined with the strong demand for our products and services are beginning to be reflected in our financial performance. Demand for our remanufactured transmissions remains strong ...," DuBose said.

DuBose also offered new information about ATC's logistics business: "I am pleased to report that ATC was awarded incremental logistics business from one of our key customers, Ford Motor Company ... we will apply our CoreTraq.com systems and processes to assist Ford in the control and management of their inventory .... This new business will contribute to our future growth as well as further enhance the breadth of our logistics services."

ATC operations include drivetrain remanufacturing, third party logistics, and recovery services, and are headquartered in Westmont, IL.
 

SONNAX SURE CURE KITS AVAILABLE

Sonnax has recently announced their newest application-specific kits, designed to provide a cure for common root-cause problems in one box. Sonnax Sure Cure kits will simplify decisions for transmission rebuilders by providing the best Sonnax fixes in one box with detailed, step-by-step instructions. These kits can be ordered with one part number, providing "one-stop shopping" to reduce your inventory and waiting time. Sonnax will soon be offering a full line of Sure Cure kits for common transmissions.
 

PHOENIX INJECTOR RECEIVES GM APPROVAL

Phoenix Systems, LLC, has announced the approval by General Motors of their Phoenix Injector, and the Reverse Fluid Injection technology. Using the patented Reverse Fluid Injection (RFI) system, fluid is injected at the slave, forcing air up through the system and out the master cylinder reservoir. Standard pressure bleeding and flushing can also be applied. General Motors stated that "... the Phoenix Injector is an effective means of ensuring a properly bled hydraulic system," and "... will be a welcomed addition to the Technician Tool Program through GM Dealer Equipment." Phoenix Systems thanks General Motors for their review and approval of this revolutionary tool.

For more information, contact Phoenix Systems at 888.749.7977, or visit their web site at www.phxsyss.com.
 

LANAIR: USED OIL = FREE HEAT

Lanair wants you to know that high heating and fuel costs can be eliminated by burning your used engine oil and transmission fluid in a Lanair Waste Oil Fired Heater. All automotive, fleet and equipment repair garages have an untapped source of free fuel in the used oil they accumulate. Burning used oil in a Lanair heater is EPA approved, and will reduce your oil disposal costs. All Lanair heaters are available with a 195 gallon used oil storage tank and chimney package. Prices start at $2,495.

For more information, and to check factory specials, call Lanair at 800.753.1601, or visit their web site at www.lanair.com.
 

XPRESS RENT A CAR ASSOCIATION
GENERATES ADDITIONAL PROFITS

Xpress Rent A Car Association attended their first ATRA-sponsored powertrain expo in Providence, Rhode Island, and enjoyed the opportunity to talk with so many that stopped by their booth.

Xpress is an association, not a franchise, for the independent rental car operator. Many of their members, now numbering 240 operating in 42 states, are in automotive related businesses, including transmission and general auto repair shops. The addition of rental cars in such businesses can be a ready-made fit, and be an ideal new profit source.

Membership includes a three day extensive training school, free to members and their employees, A+ insurance carrier, along with 15 other support programs. Not just providing instruction, but support, shop owners can add an additional profit making element to their business without raising their overhead.

For more information call 800.219.9090.
 

ATC AWARDED CONTRACT WITH SATURN

Aftermarket Technology Corp., (ATC) recently announced that its CRS facility in Gastonia, North Carolina has been awarded its first contract with the Saturn Corporation. Under the terms of this exclusive multi-year agreement, CRS will manufacture transmissions, valve body assemblies and pump assemblies. Production is expected to commence during the first quarter of next year. Mike Dubose, Chairman, President and CEO of ATC said, "The Saturn contract represents a strategic business win for ATC, adding a new world class customer to our Drivetrain segment."

ATC is headquartered in Westmont, IL. The company's operation includes drivetrain remanufacturing, third party logistics and material recovery services.
 

MINI-MAX CLEANING & WASTE MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS BY PDQ

It's only water, but when utilized with the Mini-Max Cleaner to create instantaneous superheated high pressure steam vapor, you have the cleanest, safest, most cost-effective parts cleaning system available. When coupled with the Mini-Max Waste Management System for containment entrapment, the total efficiency of the unit is unparalleled. No solvents or solvent alternatives, no need to remove contaminants.

The Mini-Max Cleaner is the proud winner of the South Coast Air Quality Management Districts Clean Air Award for Technology in the 1997-1998 year. These portable, electric, steam vapor cleaners are currently in use world-wide by the U.S. Armed Forces for the cleaning of parts as diverse as electronics and weapons.

For more information contact PDQ Precision Inc., at 858.581.6370, or visit their web site at www.minimaxcleaner.com.
 

SQUEAK RELIEF ACQUIRED BY ILI

International Lubricants, Inc., (ILI) has acquired the Squeak Relief product line from Aurora Industries, Inc., according to Frank Erickson, president and CEO of ILI. Squeak Relief is a high quality, award-winning formulation which eliminates brake noise directly at the source when applied to rotors and drums. "The addition of Squeak Relief to our existing product offerings will allow us to provide enhanced services and benefits to our undercar customers," said Erickson.

ILI also manufactures LUBEGARD and DR.TRANNY brand products, which are the finest quality, high performance lubricant protectants in the world, and the only products of their kind to be endorsed, designated, and recommended by multiple OEMs.

For more information on any ILI product, call 800.333.5823 (LUBE) or visit their web site at www.lubegard.com, and www.brake-noise.com.
 

NEW 29 ELEMENT FORWARD SPRAG CLUTCH BY BORGWARNER

Is your THM700-4R/4L60/4L60E rebuild in search of a more reliable engagement? Higher torque capacity? Then look no further! BorgWarner has just unveiled the 29 Element Forward Sprag Clutch for '86 and up. This 29 element sprag boasts the unique BorgWarner dual cage design which results in an even more consistent engagement and a higher torque capacity than the 28 element design in current use. The BorgWarner double cage sprag is recommended as THE replacement for the single cage sprag in all rebuilds. They are in stock and available to ship right away. Contact your local BorgWarner distributor and ask for it by name.
 

NEW ADDITION TO DANA'S LINE OF TRANSMISSION OIL COOLERS

Dana Corporation -- Long Manufacturing Division has introduced their new Tru-Cool Max, the latest addition to the company's excellent line of transmission oil coolers, available in January of 2002. Tru-Cool Max is the perfect choice when a auxiliary oil cooler is the only option. It is designed for those applications that bypass the internal tank cooler for extra cooling, or because of contamination. Made of durable brazed aluminum construction, the Tru-Cool Max has precise fin spacing for efficient air flow and cooling, doubling the performance of Long's other coolers. It was designed to perform in hot and cold weather, and includes a remote thermal bypass and complete installation hardware. Built in North America and backed by a lifetime guarantee.

For more information contact Tom Woinoski at Dana Corporation -- Long Manufacturing Division, via email at Tom_Woinoski@longmfg.com, or call 800.753.7336, ext. 3009.
 

NEW PRODUCTS FROM ZOOM TECHNOLOGY

Zoom Technology, Inc., has recently announced the introduction of two new products. The Universal Test Stand for Dynamometers (DTS6000), used in conjunction with Zoom's Computest Engine platform, will reproduce "TCM level" transmission control which is synchronized to the dyno engine speed and load. The system automatically records and compares results against known good operating parameters, eliminating guesswork.

Also introduced is an automated valve body testing system (HTS6000). Based on the VBT4000 test bed and incorporating the company's state of the art Computest Engine, the system synchronizes the actuation of the valve body to the hydraulic stimulus. The system automatically compares and records test results against known good operating parameters, eliminating guesswork.

Zoom is also pleased to announce the first issue of Testing Times. Published quarterly, the company's newsletter will be sent to all registered customers. According to Chuck Hansen, president of Zoom Technology, the newsletter enhances their ability to communicate with customers, advising them of new products and improvements. If you would like to receive Testing Times, call 800.389.1101.
 

BOYD GROUP ADDS FOUR WASHINGTON LOCATIONS

The Boyd Group, Inc. ("Boyd") has announced the acquisition of AWC Collision Center, LLC, which operates four locations in metropolitan Seattle and Tacoma, WA. The acquisition is expected to compliment Boyd's existing Washington operation, and bring to eight the number of shops in that area. Terms of the sale were not disclosed.

Revenue from AWC is projected to be approximately $11.25 million (Cdn) for fiscal year 2002. When combined with existing operations, this acquisition is expected to increase Boyd's overall actualized sales to approximately $144 million (Cdn). Approximately 66% of sales are derived from U.S. operations.

For more information, please contact Terry Smith, President and CEO, Brock Bulbuck, Senior Vice President and COO, or Mike Graham, Vice President and CFO, at 204.895.1244.
 

HAND TRUCK ORGANIZER FROM PAKTEK

Paktek, Inc., maker of the ToolPak brand of tool organizers, has announced another first: the world's first hand truck organizer. HandTruckPak has places for the tools you need close at hand. Pockets and panels fit everything you need with your handtruck. Made from heavy duty nylon, it has pockets on both sides. Pocket size range in size from "clipboard" to "utility knife," and their use won't interfere with operation.

For additional information, or digital photographs, calls 800.258.8458, or send email to Paktek@prodigy.net.
 

NEW PRODUCT FROM SCHAFFER

Schaffer Test Products, Inc., has introduced the Schaffer Breakout Box. It provides test jacks for standard DMM leads and connects directly to the transmission. It allows for resistance and amperage tests, and includes a color-coded wire connector for use without any additional connectors. Schaffer Shifter Adapters and extensions are retro-fitted to provide easy connection to almost 100 units. An extensive transmission Pin-Out manual is included, which lists the tester circuit colors, pin designations, and resistance specifications of all components within a transmission.
 

REDESIGNED WEB SITE FOR HI TECMETAL GROUP

HI TecMetal Group (HTG) has redesigned its web site at www.hitecmetalgroup.com, or www.htg.com, making the information on HTG's products, locations, and services more accessible. The goal of redesigning the web page was to simplify and improve navigation of the site. The site is friendly to both Mac and Windows users, and compatible with a variety of browsers such as Internet Explorer and Netscape Navigator.

Cleveland-based HI TecMetal Group is comprised of 21 strategic business units, offering more than 100 specialized metal services such as brazing, heat treating, welding, coating, nitriding, finishing and machining. For more information visit the web sites or call HTG National Sales at 216.881.8100.
 

DANA CONTINUES SUCCESS IN ENVIRONMENTAL CERTIFICATION

Dana Brake and Chassis continues their success in achieving environmental certification of their manufacturing plants. Eighteen of Dana's 22 facilities have now introduced environmental management systems, and are certified to ISO-14001 standard. ISO-14001 is an international standard that addresses a company's commitment to protecting the environment. Major automotive manufacturers are requiring their suppliers to achieve ISO-14001 certification, though the certification underscores Dana's own commitment to protection of the environment. "Four more facilities have their registration audits scheduled later this year," said Phill Rozak, director of quality. "We hope to have all our facilities certified by December 2001."

Dana Brake and Chassis is the leading manufacturer of braking and chassis systems and components in the automotive industry. For more information, call 815.363.9000, or visit their web site at www.dana.com.
 

NEW TOOLS FROM PHOENIX SYSTEMS

Phoenix Systems, LLC, has two new tools available. The Phoenix Bench Bleeder is based on a kit built specifically for Hyundai Motor Company, to solve difficult master cylinder bleeding problems by removing all the air prior to installation. This kit enables the technician to perform pressure, vacuum, and RFI bleeding. Bench bleed any master cylinder, ABS unit, caliper, wheel cylinder or hydraulic component in minutes, using patented technology.

Responding to the horror stories from customers in the "rust belt" states, Phoenix Systems has developed the BRAKE FREE. The BRAKE FREE plugs into a standard air hammer, and then over the bleeder valve. It vibrates the bleeder valve, and can be worked back and forth with a wrench. The method is 95% effective in removing the problem bleeder valve.

For more information on these or any Phoenix Systems product, call 888.749.7977, or visit their web site at www.brakebleeder.com.
 

RAYBESTOS POWERTRAIN UNVEILS NEW FRICTION MATERIAL

During the recent Powertrain Industry Expo 2001, held in Providence, RI, Raybestos Powertrain unveiled a new friction material developed by their OE research division, for possible use in transmission parts. The new material is carbon-impregnated, and is designed to resist high heat and wear, while providing smooth and efficient performance.

Al Avila, General Manager of Raybestos Powertrain, said, "Our new material now being fully developed for commercial use has the ability to offer the smooth transitions and smooth applies automobile manufacturers now require, yet has the durability to handle the stress well beyond current expectations."

In STM tests, this new material has exceeded the maximum limits of the test measurement scale. "This material is in a league of its own," Avila said. Consequently, this new material could allow friction parts to last well beyond the operating expectations of average vehicles. Raybestos is now developing this material for future commercial use; likely in powertrain and brake parts, as well as other additional uses.
 

RAYTECH ADOPTS NEW CORPORATE STRATEGIES FOR GROWTH

Raytech Corporation, now known as Raytech Powertrain, Inc., has announced new corporate strategies for growth, along with a restructuring of their aftermarket divisions.

John Butz is currently serving as President of Raytech Powertrain, Inc., and will focus on the areas of product diversification, the expansion of existing product offerings, and the development of new product lines to increase market share and product recognition.

Frank Slocum is Vice President of Sales & Marketing for Raybestos Powertrain, having joined Raybestos in 1983 as Aftermarket Sales Manager. He was President of Raybestos Aftermarket Products Co. from 1992 to 2001.

Alfred L.Avila is now General Manager of Raybestos Powertrain, having joined Raybestos in January of 2000. Al is a 28-year industry veteran who started his career as a technician.

Robert Tichy is now the Communications & Marketing Manager of Raytech Powertrain, Inc. With five years experience with Allomatic Products Company in a similar position, he has an extensive background in the aftermarket automotive industry.

Robert Clark, with 18 years experience with Raytech Corporation, is the General Manager of Allomatic Products, Inc., and responsible for all aspects of the business. By developing new products and generating innovative solutions as the technology of the industry advances, Clark will guide Allomatic into the future.

By restructuring their aftermarket divisions, Raytech will strengthen their strategic alliances, expand coverage of existing product lines, and increase the research and development ability related to new product lines.

Raybestos Powertrain recently unveiled a new friction material at the Powertrain Expo in Providence, Rhode Island. The new carbon impregnated friction material could have significant impact on the development of future transmission parts (see related information in this section).
 

ROCKLAND STANDARD GEAR AND ZF INDUSTRIES ENTER AGREEMENT

ZF Industries, Inc., a major global manufacturer of original equipment transmissions, has appointed Rockland Standard Gear, Inc., to be the sole U.S. distributor of parts, new transmission assemblies, and remanufactured transmissions for the S6-40 six speed manual transmission. The S6-40 transmission was used in Chevrolet Corvettes from 1989 to 1996, the Lotus Carlton, and the Aston Martin. The S6-40 unit is a bolt-in replacement for the Doug Nash 4+3 overdrive transmission used in the 1984-86 Corvettes. The S6-40 six speed is steadily gaining popularity for use in hot rods, kit cars, and road racing vehicles.

Rockland Standard Gear has been remanufacturing the S6-40 transmission and distributing parts since January of 2001. In keeping with ZF Industries rigorous standards of quality control, Rockland Standard Gear passed a series of quality control audits. The final agreement was signed October 13, 2001 at the Transmissions 2001 Expo, recently held in Providence, Rhode Island.
 

Front L to R: Mike Weinberg - President - Rockland Standard Gear Inc., Tony Price - Manager - Passenger Car Transmissions - ZF Industries Inc. Back L to R: Tim Corcoran - General Manager - ZF Industries Inc., Brian C. Johnston - Vice President - Rockland Standard Gear Inc., Axel Blaschke - Account Manager -ZF Industries Inc.

TRANSTAR ANNOUNCES GRAND PRIZE WINNER OF TRANX 2000

Tom O'Laughlin, Director of Sales for Transtar Industries, Inc., announced the grand prize winner of the drawing held at the Powertrain Expo in Providence, Rhode Island.

The Tranx 2000 transmission analyzer from Zoom Technology, Inc., was awarded to Ken Jones of TRC in Kent, WA. On hand for the presentation was Zoom's Pat Schmal, who presented the prize, and Rick Brodsly of Transtar Industries, Van Nuys Division.
 

LEE MYLES NAMES GLENN TROUB TECHNICAL ADVISOR

Lee Myles Transmissions has recently announced the appointment of Glenn Troub, a well-known industry veteran, to the position of Technical Advisor. Troub began his career in the 1970s, and is an experienced rebuilder, shop manager, and electronics expert. He was formerly the supervisor of technical services for Aamco, and technical director for the Dura-Bilt Transmission Factory. In 1989 he joined the technical staff of ATRA, and became one of the industry's most sought after seminar presenters. In 1999, Troub became ATRA's director of online services, and acted as their web master and creator of ATRA Online.

Troub will help Lee Myles focus on the "back end" of shop operations, improving diagnosis, quality control, and production techniques. He will also provide training seminars, and act as a technical consultant to the Lee Myles Customer Relations Department.

Glenn Troub