Shop Press is the news and idea hub for everything related to working on cars and trucks, focusing on repair, technology, and wrenching lifestyle.

From the creative minds at:

FEATURE STORY

Hot Off the Press

Fixing cracked plastic parts with a hot staple tool (VIDEO)

Description When plastic parts break, sometimes replacements can be prohibitively expensive or hard to find. Learn how to use a hot staple tool to salvage broken plastics for auto repairs and other projects.Related Videos

How stop drilling can help to save cracked parts (VIDEO)

Description Learn how stop drilling can help to prevent cracks from propagating with a little know-how and a drill.

Tool Review: FNIRSI DSO152 Oscilloscope

Disclaimer: I purchased this tool at full retail price. In fact, I actually purchased two so I could try out the version with a high-voltage lead.If you’ve met my fellow Shop Press contrib Pete, seen his videos, taken his classes, or read his articles, you’ll know...

Making custom coiled wire is easier than you think (VIDEO)

Description Coiled wire is a smart idea for adding service loops or mechanical strain relief on automotive electrical jobs or other projects. In three easy steps, you can make your own coiled wire sections for all kinds of applications.

New techs: hang in there. An old transmission pan mystery exemplifies the difficulties of being a mechanic

Anyone who knows me is aware I am slavishly beholden to the concept of picking up a book before picking up a wrench. Heck, that’s the cornerstone of Dorman’s own Training Center, and I’ve been preaching that for a long time. I’m not the only person beating that drum....

Choosing the right brake fluid

You know topping off brake fluid is generally a no-no, but when a customer’s brake fluid needs to be flushed completely, knowing what to put in the reservoir isn’t as clear-cut as it once was. The master cylinder cap may say the vehicle uses DOT 4 brake fluid, but are...

Five ways repair shops can address the rising costs of car ownership

The financial burden of owning a vehicle has kept pace with the rising cost of living, which is to say neither is easily affordable for many Americans. As a result, many automotive repair shops are caught in the crossfire as service writers must strike a balance...

ICYMI: Secondary hood prop positions

Today’s article might score a little lower on technical difficulty and higher on automobilia esoterica, but I make no apologies. In my salad days, I worked as a dismantler at a salvage yard. Pulling motors was commonplace, so I learned quickly about this tip I’m sure...

In The Bay

Don’t let your scanner go unprotected

by Lemmy | Feb 1, 2024

0 Comments

This article is a quick reminder to buy (and use!) a surge protector on your (or your shop’s) scan tool(s).

The modern vehicle scanner has WiFi, a screen, and touch input. It is, for all intents and purposes, a computer, and it doesn’t like “dirty” power. Protect it as you would a legitimate computer. The modern shop has all sorts of power draws and supplies. Customer vehicles are already a questionable source of power—reduce your exposure when charging your tools at night and throw a surge protector between the power source and your tool.

Single-input surge protection devices exist and are compact and cost-effective—grab one! Photo: Lemmy

The articles and other content contained on this site may contain links to third party websites. By clicking them, you consent to Dorman’s Website Use Agreement.