When it is necessary to make your own gaskets, small bolt holes are often the trickiest features to cut.
Making your own gaskets? Get a hollow punch set for pro results. (VIDEO)
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HOT OFF THE PRESS
Polishing headlights vs. replacing them! (VIDEO)
Two solutions for yellowed, hazy headlights.
Parallel connectors vs. butt connectors
They look the same, but serve different roles. Here are the very specific scenarios where the lesser-known parallel connector shines.
What’s the deal with permanent and lifetime antifreezes? (VIDEO)
Shop Press’ Andy Greaser breaks down permanent antifreeze and today’s coolant for your vehicles.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Why “topping off” a gas tank can be an expensive mistake (VIDEO)
When the pump automatically shuts off after filling a vehicle’s tank, many people are tempted to add a little more gas. Unfortunately, this can do more harm than good, and the repair bills could add up quickly.
PSA: Check that cabin air filter
The cabin air filter is arguably the most overlooked filter on the car.
Why sidewall styling is both worthless and wonderful for drivers and tire shops
The appearance of off-road prowess while maintaining on-road comfort is what motorists want. Tire salesmen, take advantage.
Surprise: having snacks and phone chargers in your repair shop’s waiting room makes customers happier
A recent J.D. Power study found that a few simple amenities in your service center’s lobby go a long way toward making your customers want to come back, but few businesses have them.
Exhaust tips: three ways to fine-tune your method
Exhaust work is straightforward and (I think) easy to understand. Here are some pointers for service techs to avoid comebacks when hanging pipe.
ABOUT SHOP PRESS
Shop Press is the news and idea hub for everything related to working on cars and trucks, focusing on repair, technology, and wrenching lifestyle. With interesting stories from around the world, features on creative people and solutions, and all kinds of other stuff that’ll make you use your mind and your hands.
SHOP STUFF
Auto care news and advice you can use.
Virgil Exner: The creator of Chrysler’s “forward look”
Exner was responsible for the look of cool cars of the late 1950’s, not just at Chrysler, but at other automakers as well.
Two A/C checks you don’t wanna skip
Failing to perform these two vital service steps could cost time and money—or worse.
Five tips for servicing cartridge-style oil filters
Any of these mistakes can lead to an unwanted oil leak or worse—a blown engine.
How to install a brake cable slack eliminator (VIDEO)
If your parking brake is weak or not working at all, a stretched cable is usually the issue.
The seven words you never want to hear from a customer (and how to avoid them)
It’s your job to tell customers about warning signs and bad repairs.
VIDEOS
Several tips to make brake line removal less of a headache
Don’t break fittings—break ‘em free.
Quick tip: how to use an old phone to check vehicle lights by yourself
That old smartphone can actually help when you don’t have a second set of eyes to help out.
Shop Upkeep Essentials (VIDEO)
Shop Press’ Miriam discusses tasks and tips to maintain a well-rounded shop.