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The Toolbox is Last to Leave, First is the Heart

By Joe Marconi in Joe's Blog
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It always amazes me when I hear about a technician who quits one repair shop to go work at another shop for less money. I know you have heard of this too, and you’ve probably asked yourself, “Can this be true? And Why?” The answer rests within the culture of the company. More specifically, the boss, manager, or a toxic work environment literally pushed the technician out the door.
While money and benefits tend to attract people to a company, it won’t keep them there. When a technician begins to look over the fence for greener grass, that is usually a sign that something is wrong within the workplace. It also means that his or her heart is probably already gone. If the issue is not resolved, no amount of money will keep that technician for the long term. The heart is always the first to leave. The last thing that leaves is the technician’s toolbox.
Shop owners: Focus more on employee retention than acquisition. This is not to say that you should not be constantly recruiting. You should. What it does means is that once you hire someone, your job isn’t over, that’s when it begins. Get to know your technicians. Build strong relationships. Have frequent one-on-ones. Engage in meaningful conversation. Find what truly motivates your technicians. You may be surprised that while money is a motivator, it’s usually not the prime motivator.
One last thing; the cost of technician turnover can be financially devastating. It also affects shop morale. Do all you can to create a workplace where technicians feel they are respected, recognized, and know that their work contributes to the overall success of the company. This will lead to improved morale and team spirit. Remember, when you see a technician’s toolbox rolling out of the bay on its way to another shop, the heart was most likely gone long before that.

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Mailbag Episode: Multimeters, Electrical Diagnostics and Drivability Tricks [E180] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
Matt Fanslow dives into listener-submitted questions, covering:
Multimeter recommendations (why he prefers insulation testers/meggers over basic DMMs). Electrical diagnostic strategies (schematics, scan tools, and stress-testing circuits). The "Flat Rate Test Drive" (a drivability diagnostic trick for load/PID analysis). Gaming picks (Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster). Scan tool advice for techs doing more drivability work.
Timestamps:
(00:00) – Intro
(02:33) – Multimeter recommendations: Why Matt avoids basic DMMs and prefers:
Fluke 1587 or Pico TA467 (insulation testers for EVs/future-proofing). Used Vantage/Vantage Pro (graphing + scope functions). Curien (Bluetooth-enabled multimeter).
(11:44) – Electrical diagnostic process:
Start with a wiring schematic. Use a scan tool to check module inputs/commands. Stress-test circuits (e.g., load with a headlight for power/ground checks). Leverage relays for centralized testing (control/output sides).
(22:48) – Shoutout to trainer Richard Velko.
(23:17) – "Flat Rate Test Drive" explained:
Monitor PIDs (load, MAF, MAP, O2 sensors) during WOT pulls to isolate drivability issues (fuel vs. restriction).
(34:42) – Gaming corner: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, and Days Gone Remaster.
(38:53) – Scan tool recommendations for drivability:
HP Tuners (budget-friendly, fast data logging). Used Snap-on Solus Edge/Ultra (enhanced OEM data). Shop responsibility (tools should be shop-provided!).
Quotes
"I don’t buy just a pure multimeter anymore... Get an insulation tester. You’ll need it for EVs/hybrids." – Matt "The ‘Flat Rate Test Drive’ stresses the engine while watching PIDs to split the problem in half." – Matt "For drivability, HP Tuners is my top pick—great data logging without breaking the bank." – Matt
Tools & Resources Mentioned:
Multimeters: Fluke 1587, Pico TA467, Vantage Pro, Curien. Diagnostic Tactics: Wiring diagrams, scan tool bi-directionals, current ramping. Games: Elden Ring, Assassin’s Creed Shadows, Days Gone Remaster. Scan Tools: HP Tuners, Snap-on Solus Edge, TopDon XTool.
Final Thoughts:
Matt’s takeaway? Invest in versatile tools (like megohmmeters) and lean on schematics/scan tools to avoid diagnostic rabbit holes.
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Automotive Diagnostics, Badgers, and ADAS Calibration [E178] - Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partner, NAPA Autotech
NAPA Autotech’s team of ASE Master Certified Instructors are conducting over 1,200 classes covering 28 automotive topics. To see a selection, go to napaautotech.com for more details.
Contact Information
Email Matt: [email protected] Diagnosing the Aftermarket A - Z YouTube Channel
The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
The Aftermarket Radio Network
Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion
Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life.
The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level.
The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching.
Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest.
Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size.
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
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By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class Recorded at the 45th annual Mobile Air Climate Systems Conference (MACS 2025) in Orlando, Florida, this episode dives into the evolving world of thermal management in vehicles. Our panel discusses the shift from traditional air conditioning to a more advanced approach, driven by the growing complexity of modern vehicles, especially EVs. They explore why maintaining optimal temperatures for batteries, electric motors, and other components is just as critical as passenger comfort. The conversation also covers alternative refrigerants, particularly blends, as a way to boost efficiency, reduce environmental impact, and adapt to changing battery technologies. With these advancements, the need for technician training and industry adaptation is greater than ever. Our experts emphasize the importance of collaboration across the industry to ensure a smooth transition and deliver effective solutions for both OEMs and aftermarket service providers.
Adam Kimmel, Koura, [email protected] Ryan Kooiman, Director of Training, Standard Motor Products. Ryan’s previous episodes HERE. Chuck Abbott, Global Marketing Manager, Koura Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode MACS Training Event & Trade Show: https://macsmobileairclimate.org/ National Automotive Service Task Force (NASTF): https://wp.nastf.org/ Koura: https://www.kouraglobal.com/ Honeywell: https://www.honeywell.com/us/en Introduction and Sponsors (00:00:00) Evolution of Thermal Management (00:02:28) Consultative Role of Shop Owners (00:02:10) Rise of Thermal Management Specialists (00:03:08) Importance of Battery Temperature Control (00:03:46) Impact of Electric Compressors (00:05:45) Training on Thermal Management (00:12:19) Future of Refrigerants (00:09:52) Concerns with Flammable Refrigerants (00:11:04) Thermal Management in Electric Vehicles (00:14:04) Training Demand for Electric Vehicle Systems (00:15:26) Battery Chemistry and Future Developments (00:17:02) Shifting Priorities in Funding (00:18:27) Changing Thermal Management Needs (00:18:57) Service Recommendations for Blends (00:19:18) Collaboration in Industry (00:19:58) New Components in AC Systems (00:20:50) Complexity of Thermal Management Systems (00:22:15) Career Opportunities in Automotive Technology (00:23:06) Investing in New Refrigerant Machines (00:24:30) Consumer Benefits of Blend Refrigerants (00:25:05) Leakage Characteristics of Blends (00:26:14) Future of Refrigerant Machines (00:27:35) Importance of Thermal Management Knowledge (00:29:02) Final Thoughts on Education and Collaboration (00:32:57)
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Future Proofing Your Shop: A 2025 Auto Repair Outlook [THA 419]
By carmcapriotto

Thanks to our Partners, NAPA TRACS, and Today's Class The "Great Correction" refers to a shift in the industry after a period of relative ease, likely due to pandemic related factors. The key concerns include a decrease in online searches for auto repair, rising costs, increased competition from dealerships, labor shortages, rapid advancements in technology (EVs, ADAS, AI), and the need to explore new revenue opportunities like key services, ADAS calibration, tires, and truck repairs. These issues suggest that the strategies that worked in the past may no longer be effective. Ryan Daily, Business Coach, The Institute Wayne Marshall, Business Coach, The Institute Fred Hule II, Business Coach, The Institute Show Notes Watch Full Video Episode Introduction of Guests (00:00:00) Market Challenges (00:02:14) Customer Education Importance (00:04:01) Effective Communication (00:05:16) Listening to Customers (00:06:49) Value of Language in Services (00:08:34) Customer Trust and Attrition (00:09:21) New Car Sales Impact (00:10:20) Facility Appeal (00:12:26) Investing in Facilities (00:14:09) Profitability Challenges (00:15:17) Mindset Shift in Shop Owners (00:16:16) Value Proposition Discussion (00:17:21) Continuous Improvement in Service (00:18:03) Understanding Profit Targets (00:18:49) Shop Management Systems (00:19:51) Training Service Advisors (00:21:06). Proper Vehicle Inspections (00:22:01) Communication with Customers (00:28:15) Follow Up Strategies (00:29:45) Educating Customers on Maintenance (00:32:15) Company Culture and Staff Engagement (00:34:02) Understanding Expectations (00:35:59) Customer Engagement (00:36:55) Cultural Impact (00:37:36) Continuous Education (00:39:30) Investment in Staff (00:40:36) Onboarding Process (00:42:33) Industry Transformation (00:44:38) Adapting to Change (00:46:31)
Thanks to our Partner, NAPA TRACS NAPA TRACS will move your shop into the SMS fast lane with onsite training and six days a week of support and local representation. Find NAPA TRACS on the Web at http://napatracs.com/ Thanks to our Partner, Today's Class Optimize training with Today's Class: In just 5 minutes daily, boost knowledge retention and improve team performance. Find Today's Class on the web at https://www.todaysclass.com/ Connect with the Podcast: -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Follow on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/RemarkableResultsRadioPodcast/ -Join Our Private Facebook Community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/1734687266778976 -Join Our Virtual Toastmasters Club: https://remarkableresults.biz/toastmasters -Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/carmcapriotto -Follow on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/carmcapriotto/ -Follow on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/remarkableresultsradiopodcast/ -Follow on X: https://twitter.com/RResultsBiz -Visit the Website: https://remarkableresults.biz/ -Join our Insider List: https://remarkableresults.biz/insider -All books mentioned on our podcasts: https://remarkableresults.biz/books -Our Classroom page for personal or team learning: https://remarkableresults.biz/classroom -Buy Me a Coffee: https://www.buymeacoffee.com/carm -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com/ Remarkable Results Radio Podcast with Carm Capriotto: Advancing the Aftermarket by Facilitating Wisdom Through Story Telling and Open Discussion. https://remarkableresults.biz/ Diagnosing the Aftermarket A to Z with Matt Fanslow: From Diagnostics to Metallica and Mental Health, Matt Fanslow is Lifting the Hood on Life. https://mattfanslow.captivate.fm/ Business by the Numbers with Hunt Demarest: Understand the Numbers of Your Business with CPA Hunt Demarest. https://huntdemarest.captivate.fm/ The Auto Repair Marketing Podcast with Kim and Brian Walker: Marketing Experts Brian & Kim Walker Work with Shop Owners to Take it to the Next Level. https://autorepairmarketing.captivate.fm/ The Weekly Blitz with Chris Cotton: Weekly Inspiration with Business Coach Chris Cotton from AutoFix - Auto Shop Coaching. https://chriscotton.captivate.fm/ Speak Up! Effective Communication with Craig O'Neill: Develop Interpersonal and Professional Communication Skills when Speaking to Audiences of Any Size. https://craigoneill.captivate.fm/
Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
Episode 202 - A Conversation with Launch Tech's Haresh Gobin On The Future of Diagnostics
By Changing The Industry

Episode 202 - A Conversation with Launch Tech's Haresh Gobin On The Future of Diagnostics