January/March 2011

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cycles of the various OnStar systems in order to avoid confusion ... OnStar module is: IGN ON - 240 to 400 ... HUMMER H3, HUMMER H3T. A squeak noise may ...
ServiceInsights F O R

I N D E P E N D E N T

S E R V I C E

C E N T E R S

J a n – M a r 2 0 11

> Roster of more competitively priced GM Parts expands > LSX454R Crate Engine delivers 750 HP for drag racers > New 2011 GMPP Catalog now available > ASE written testing registration opens Feb. 1 > SEMA 2010 run-down > Vegas Transmission Shop handles “shifting demands” > TechConnect insert with valuable repair info

CONTENTS GM Parts Product Update

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The Technical Side

The latest word on product development and technologies.

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Discover new ways to approach service and repairs.

Repair Industry News & Updates

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Business of Repairs

Get state-of-theindustry perspectives from GM insiders.

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New ideas that can benefit how your shop operates and profits.

GM ServiceInsights Online

More Genuine GM Parts resources and links. Download this issue and past issues of GM ServiceInsights magazine at... www.gmserviceinsights.com GM ServiceInsights Headquarters 2604 N.E. Industrial Dr., #230 N. Kansas City, MO 64117 E-mail: [email protected] Compliments of your GM dealer. We invite your input and suggestions. Please address letters to the editor to the above address. Letters submitted imply the right to edit and publish. Every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of the information in the offers contained in this magazine. However, printing and typographical errors may occur. These are not intentional and are not the responsibility of GM, any GM dealer or the companies or individuals who create, produce and distribute this magazine. Offers and pricing may change at any time without prior notification. The descriptions and specifications in this publication were in effect at the time of approval for printing. General Motors reserves the right to change specifications without notice and without obligation. Published letters do not necessarily reflect the opinions of General Motors or General Motors Parts. General Motors, Detroit, MI 48202. © 2011 General Motors • All rights reserved.

GM Parts Product Update

Roster of competitively priced GM Parts expands through overPOWER. In all, some 228 distinct part numbers will be added to the lineup of GM Parts that authorized dealers are selling to Independent Service Centers (ISCs) at prices competitive with aftermarket substitutes.

The aftermarket parts competition has more reason to be worried. For 2011, GM Parts is expanding its overPOWER aftermarket parts conquest program to bring in GM OE turbochargers, cylinder heads and clutch kits. Those introductions, plus the addition of 92 new part numbers to the existing engine component parts category, brings the total overPOWER list to some 1,300 part numbers that also includes engines, PULLEYS & TENSIONERS transmission assemblies and components. Failure Risks/Symptoms: pts to • Often damaged from attem In two years, the number of parts r puller remove without the propeto run off • Debris can cause the belt included in overPOWER has almost the pulley HARMONIC BALANCERS tripled, testimony to GM’s aggressive Failure Risks/Symptoms:out-of-balance when ion vibrat efforts to incentivize ISCs to choose or • Noise to neoprene • Debris can cause damage or coatings Genuine GM Parts when installing many 4WD ACTUATOR MOTORS commonly used powertrain parts. Failure Risks/Symptoms: e failur r The list of parts included is now senso er • Encod • Wiring/Electrical failure growing so large that ISCs are encouraged S ENGINE OIL COOLER LINE to routinely check with their GM Parts Failure Risks/Symptoms: e dealers about the availability of failur seal or g • Fittin • Debris contamination competitively priced OE component parts DS IFOL MAN that might be needed to complete major INTAKE Failure Risks/Symptoms: powertrain repairs. leaks ge passa nt • Coola • Warpage/loss of seal “The idea is to offer a one-stop shop KETS GAS D IFOL for ordering parts so ISCs can avoid the INTAKE MAN Failure Risks/Symptoms: hassle of sourcing from multiple leaks nt • Coola • Seal failure vendors,” says Amy Buzan, wholesale dealer channel specialist.

prices. OE quality at competitive ier than ever to get Now, we’re making it eas expanding list of an on ing pric e itiv compet elco Powertrain ACD and ts Par Genuine GM ryday repair jobs. eve for ds Parts your shop nee ’ll like...why trust your OE quality at pricing you anything else? —to tion uta rep or business—

S... QUALIFYING COMPONENT / BALANCERS > PULLEYS / TENSIONERS TOR MOTORS > 4-WHEEL DRIVE ACTUA ES > ENGINE OIL COOLER LIN GASKETS > INTAKE MANIFOLDS & GINE & > GENUINE GM PARTS EN BLIES TRANSMISSION ASSEM > CYLINDER HEADS

ERCHARGERS > TURBO CHARGERS & SUP > OE CLUTCH KITS

GM dealer Contact your participating for a competitive quote.

Jan – Mar 2011 ServiceInsights

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GM Parts Product Update

750 HP and 680 lb.-ft. torque from a GM Performance Parts crate engine? Yep. That’s right, and it’s not a typo! GM Performance Parts (GMPP) has announced the availability of the all-new LSX454R crate engine (part number 19257880), drag racing engine officially rated at 750 horsepower and 680 lb.-ft. of torque, with a very strong, all-forged rotating assembly and optimized high-rpm airflow developed by GMPP engineers. “The LSX454R uses the latest LSX parts and factoryengineered technology to take LS performance to the next level,” said Dr. Jamie Meyer, product integration manager for GM Performance Parts. “This is a great engine to use when building a cutting-edge drag car with one of our new Camaro bodies in white.” GMPP engineers designed the LSX454R for the unique, high-rpm demands of drag racing. It is a highcompression, solid-roller combination that uses new LSX

The LSX454R Crate Engine from GM Performance Parts.

DR cylinder heads (part number 19166979). The 11-degree, six-bolt aluminum heads feature raised ports that provide tremendous airflow. They are matched on the engine with an exclusive, all-new high-rise open-plenum intake manifold and a Holley 1,150-cfm Dominator carburetor. The LSX DR heads and matching intake manifold are available separately. Go to www.gmperformanceparts.com for more information about GM Performance Parts.

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Jan – Mar 2011 ServiceInsights

SPECIAL INSERT

Repair Industry News & Updates

ASE written testing registration opens Feb. 1. ASE has announced that after 2011, only computer based testing will be offered. However, written tests are still available and the next testing dates are in May. Online registration for written tests opens Feb. 1 and tollfree phone registration opens March 1. The National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence exists to help improve the quality of automotive service and repair through the voluntary testing and certification of automotive technicians and parts specialists. Computer based testing is scheduled for July and Aug. Today, there are nearly 400,000 ASE-certified professionals at work in dealerships, independent shops, collision repair shops, auto parts stores, fleets, schools and colleges throughout the country. For additional information or to register for tests, visit the ASE’s website at www.ase.com or contact them at 1-800-388-5584.

SEMA

2010

A springboard to GMPP, Chevrolet innovations.

Exhibiting at the 2010 SEMA (Specialty Equipment Manufacturers Association) show in Las Vegas last November, GM Performance Parts (GMPP) made clear its intention to stay on that industry’s leading edge. Reprising its rollout of groundbreaking E-ROD emissions-compliant crate engine systems at SEMA 2009, GMPP talked up three additions coming in 2011. An E-ROD 5.3L, LS7 and LSA will join the introductory LS3 in a product line that combines low emissions and high performance. GMPP says the new engine systems will be certified to meet stringent California Air Resources Board (CARB) Continued on page 7.

Spring 2011 ASE Written Test Schedule Thursday – May 5, 2011 Automobile Collision Parts Truck Equipment Advanced

A1, A4, A5, A8, A9 Regular All Regular tests (B2 through B6) and All Recert tests (B2R through B6R) All Regular tests – P1, P2,P4, and All Recert tests E1, E2, E3 Regular and Recert L2 Regular and Recert

Tuesday – May 10, 2011 Automobile Advanced Truck Transit Bus School Bus

A2, A3, A6, A7 Regular L1 Regular and Recert T2, T6, T7, T8 Regular tests; All Recert tests H1, H3, H4, H5, Regular and Recert tests (H4R and H6R) S1, S2, S3, S7 Regular

Thursday – May 12, 2011 Automobile Service Consultant Alt. Fuels Transit Bus Truck School Bus Exhaust

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Jan – Mar 2011 ServiceInsights

All Recert tests C1 Regular and Recert F1 Regular and Recert H2, H6, H7, H8 Regular T1, T3, T4, T5 Regular S4, S5, S6 Regular; All Recerts Exhaust Regular (X1) and Recert (X1R)

E-ROD 5.3L — Based on the proven and durable workhorse engine in the Chevrolet Silverado, it is GMPP’s most affordable E-ROD package. The E-ROD 5.3L is rated at 315 horsepower and 335 lb.-ft. of torque; and it features camshaft phasing, which alters valve timing to help optimize performance and efficiency across the rpm band. Part numbers: 19258004 (automatic); 19258008 (manual).

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The following technical tips provide repair information about specific conditions on a variety of vehicles. If you have a tough or unusual service repair, the TSS Technical Assistance Hot Line can help. Call 1-800-825-5886, prompt #2, to speak with a technical expert with the latest OEM information.

Fluid Flushing Requirements

and later systems, a clear or “dark” LED may indicate the OnStar system has been deactivated or may possibly

2005-2010 Chrysler, Dodge and Jeep vehicles Chrysler Group vehicle fluid systems do not require regular flushing. These systems include: engine oil, transmission oil, axle lube, brake fluid, power steering fluid, and refrigerant. The only exception to this requirement are those fluid changes that are published in the vehicle maintenance schedules, e.g. engine coolant, and in instances where a failure has occurred and/or the system has become compromised, contaminated or overheated beyond the normal operating range. Aftermarket chemicals to flush the engine, transmission, brake or steering systems are not recommended. Chemicals contained in these products can damage the system elastomeric components, and contaminate the component fluid, leading to loss of system/component durability and service life. When necessary, only the original approved system fluid should be used to flush these components using approved equipment. If the engine coolant contains a considerable amount of sediment, clean and flush the system followed by a thorough rinsing to remove all deposits and chemicals. Refill with a minimum of a 50% mixture of the specified coolant and distilled water. Refer to Chrysler bulletin #26-001-09 for more information.

OnStar® Power Consumption 2000-2010 OnStar-equipped Vehicles with Digital Hardware During battery parasitic drain testing, it is important to understand the power cycles of the various OnStar systems in order to avoid confusion about normal power consumption readings. All OnStar customers with currently active vehicles have digital/analog cellular capability. A green status LED on the OnStar keypad normally indicates an active OnStar account. A red LED indicates a system DTC. On Gen 6

grease to the rear leaf springs will correct this condition and do a better job of preventing the noise from reoccurring than replacement of the springs. To grease the springs, pressure wash the springs to remove as much dirt and debris as possible and dry the springs with compressed air. Apply a liberal amount of grease under the front and rear tip inserts for the #2 and #3 leaves, on top of the tip inserts, and in between the #1 and #2, and #2 and #3 leaves.

have a no power concern/no communication. The OnStar system will stay powered up after the ignition is off for an extended time in order to allow for remote services like door unlock, horn chirp, light flash, etc., to take place as requested by the driver. Power cycle times vary depending on the generation of the OnStar system, and may be powered up continuously from 48 hours to 120 hours after the ignition is off. Technicians may identify the system generation by using a scan tool or by using www.onstarenrollment.com. The expected current draw of the OnStar module is: IGN ON - 240 to 400 mA IGN OFF - 3 to 20 mA for 48 hours IGN OFF - after 48 hours (120 hours on specified VCPs) - 0.2 to 0.8 mA

Squeak Noise from Rear of Vehicle 1999-2007 Chevrolet Silverado (Classic), GMC Sierra (Classic); 20072009 Chevrolet Colorado, Chevrolet Silverado, GMC Canyon, GMC Sierra, HUMMER H3, HUMMER H3T A squeak noise may be coming from the rear of the vehicle. During normal operation, certain vehicles may exhibit a squeaking noise that may be traced to the rear leaf springs. While this noise is an operating characteristic of leaf springs, the roads that the vehicle is driven on will affect the frequency and severity of this noise. This condition may be due to debris getting between the leaf springs. It has been found that the application of 6 TECH CONNECT

Periodic cleanings and grease re-application may be necessary throughout the life of the vehicle. If this procedure does not correct the noise on 1500 Series (1/2 ton) models built prior to October 2004, the noise may be caused by an incorrectly dimensioned splay clip (the band holding the ends of the leafs together) that interferes with the leaf springs. A 5 mm (0.197 in) wider splay clip was introduced early in the 2005 model year to provide additional clearance. To correct this condition, it may be necessary to replace the rear leaf spring assembly. There was no change to the part number. For more information, refer to GM bulletin # 06-03-09-004B.

Diagnostic Assistance For free technical diagnostic assistance and product information regarding specific ACDelco products, contact these toll-free information hotlines staffed by ASE-certified technicians: Brakes – 1-888-701-6169 (prompt #1) Chassis – 1-888-701-6169 (prompt #2) Clutches – 1-888-725-8625 Lift Supports – 1-800-790-5438 Shocks – 1-877-466-7752 Starters and Alternators – 1-800-228-9672 Steering – 1-866-833-5567 Wiper Blades – 1-800-810-7096

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SEMA 2010 . . . from page 6

Repair Industry News & Updates (cont’d.)

aftermarket emissions requirements for on-road applications early this year. The LS3 now has that certification. GMPP is also working to get CARB certification for its E-ROD engines to be used in street rods, kit cars and other specially constructed vehicles in the state. GMPP also unveiled plans to expand its LSX line of maximum performance parts to include LSX-DR drag race cylinder heads; a high-flow, singleplane intake manifold and LSX L92-style six-bolt heads for small-bore applications. GM Performance Parts turned heads at the 2010 SEMA show.

“No other manufacturer offers more parts for building an LS engine for the street or strip and these exciting new parts are merely the latest examples,” says Dr. Jamie Meyer, GMPP product integration manager. “Our LSX parts were developed for 2,000-horsepower racing engines and they deliver performance and strength that are second to none.” GMPP LSX 454 on display at the 2010 SEMA show.

GMPP also revealed the availability of a new LS9 supercharger kit. Consisting of the assembled supercharger, fuel rail with injectors, integrated throttle body and a “dual brick” intercooler, the kit gives engine builders the resources to use the power-adder behind the Corvette ZR1 on any engine with LS3 heads or the LS3 port configuration.

It announced plans to release a special-edition Camaro every year. Its Synergy Series, which debuted in a show car at SEMA, will emphasize new approaches to accessory parts and customization. The car will be offered to consumers in the first half of 2011 as a special-edition model.

Build Your Own Corvette Engine And Chevrolet also announced a unique program that allows buyers of the 2011 Corvette Z06 or ZR1 to purchase the add-on experience of actually helping assemble an LS7 or LS9 engine for their car at GM’s Performance Build Center in Michigan. A Corvette “Engine Build Experience” hands-on demo was held at GM’s 2010 SEMA Show Exhibit.

Corvette’s “Engine Build Experience” caters to hard-core enthusiasts wanting to gain an intimate knowledge of the masterful engineering incorporated into these vehicles. For more information, see facebook.com/corvette. “Today’s LS7 and LS9 Corvette engines are pinnacle achievements in engineering, and to personally involve our customers in their final creation shows the depth of Chevrolet’s commitment to make lasting connections with the customer,” says Tom Stephens, GM vice chairman, Global Product Operations. Go to www.gmperformanceparts.com for more information about GM Performance Parts.

Camaro Accessories were front and center at the 2010 SEMA show.

Meanwhile, Chevrolet took the wraps off a couple of new initiatives at SEMA.

Chevrolet Corvette LS9 6.2L V-8 SC

Jan – Mar 2011 ServiceInsights

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The Technical Side Duramax Turbo Diesel 6.6L V-8 (LMM)

Powertrain, Collision Repair

Information

comes together on retooled GM Parts website: www.genuinegmparts.com

A Genuine Resource When you’ve got a job to do, you need everything in one place, ready to go — the vehicle, parts, tools and labor. Same goes for the information you may need before you get down to work. That’s why GM has completely redesigned its Genuine GM Parts website. At www.genuinegmparts.com, Independent Body Shops (IBSs) and Independent Service Centers (ISCs) can find information needed to do top-notch work on GM vehicles in one place, and now better assembled, organized and easier to retrieve than ever before. The redesigned site, which launched in 2010, is close to being fully functional in the new configuration. Navigation will be easier, information more accessible,

and the breadth and depth of resources will be expanded. Though the site’s main draw is collision repair procedure information — a section that is being upgraded to be more user-friendly and visual — GM is enhancing the site’s GM Powertrain resources. “There will be a lot more GM Powertrain information, and all of it will be incorporated into the site rather than linked to other sites,” says Cindy Schafer, digital marketing manager on the GM Parts wholesale marketing team. “And we’ll also be incorporating an email registration form for visitors to receive emails specific to collision, powertrain, GM Performance Parts and ACDelco product information.”

Collision Repair In the Collision Repair section, visitors navigate directly to repair procedures information pertaining to specific GM makes and models. Available information spans multiple categories, from technical documents and procedures and service bulletins to warranty provisions, paint shop guidelines and position statements. The aim is to leave no stone unturned in giving IBSs a relevant source of OE information that is constantly updated to help them restore each GM vehicle to pre-crash conditions. And that’s becoming increasingly difficult for IBSs to achieve with repair procedures and processes coming at a quicker pace, more competition from non-OE parts and a greater use of advanced structural technologies like high-strength steel.

Powertrain Repair Likewise, in the Powertrain section, visitors can learn all about the full lineup of GM engines, engine components, transmissions, transmission components and transfer cases. GM Engine resources are designed to give ISCs essential information needed to sell, select and install parts necessary in any GM vehicle repair. This information spans engine spec charts, GMPP crate engine listings and GM Parts warranties to listings of ACDelco Parts such as cooler lines, fittings, manifolds and gaskets, and tensioners/balancers/pulleys. This type of detailed information can help ISCs make the best choice for customers. GM Transmission resources are equally comprehensive. You can find a review of GM remanufactured transmission features, GM Transmission parts advantages, warranty features, specification charts and quick reference information on GM Parts and/or ACDelco Parts.

GM Performance Parts Releases 2011 Catalog A pair of dealer-modified Camaros featured on the cover of the 2011 GMPP catalog exemplify a growing trend in using crate engines to offer extraordinary performance to a new generation of enthusiasts — all while evoking the spirit of the dealer-driven COPO Camaros of the late 1960s. The Camaros were built by DeNooyer Chevrolet in New York and Georgia’s NeSmith Chevrolet. DeNooyer used GMPP’s new LSX454 crate engine to build a modern 454 engine for the Camaro SS, while NeSmith transplanted the supercharged LS9 engine from the Corvette ZR1 into their Camaro. Within the new 2011 GM Performance Parts catalog are more than 300 pages of crate engines, engine parts and vehicle accessories for vehicles powered by GM’s LS, smallblock and big-block engines. For 2011, the catalog features more for LS highperformance engine builders, including: • Vehicle-specific performance parts and accessories • Expansion of the E-ROD crate engine portfolio • The LSX454R crate engine • LSX DR 11-degree cylinder heads and matching intake manifold • LSX six-bolt L92-style cylinder heads for smaller-bore LS engine. Along with descriptions and part numbers for all the engines, parts and accessories, the GMPP catalog offers valuable information on selecting matching components for the best-performing combination, as well as detailed specifications on most components — including charts outlining cylinder head specs and camshaft specs. There’s also a special section for LS engine builders that provides an overview of the LS engine family and parts interchangeability. GMPP has also included accessories for new Chevrolets, including the Corvette, Camaro, Cruze and trucks. They include performance, suspension and appearance upgrades. Contact your GM dealer for a copy of the 2011 GM Performance Parts catalog. A free download of a PDF version of the catalog is also available at www.gmperformanceparts.com.

Jan – Mar 2011 ServiceInsights

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Business of Repairs

Shifting Demand Vegas transmission shop’s rebuild biz still flickers but remans are the future. It’s a sign of the times, perhaps. Someone comes into Jim Marynow’s Las Vegas transmission shop with a 20-year-old vehicle dragging a wornout transmission. It can be fixed, he tells them, but at a cost of $2,000, normally a hard sell. “Deal,” they’ll say. “A lot of times I’ll do these cars that have 150,000 miles and I’ll just shake my head,” he says. “But people are wanting to keep their cars longer, and they don’t want to spend money on a new car and take on the debt. The thinking is, just get by for a while on the old one.”

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Jan – Mar 2011 ServiceInsights

Marynow built Competition Transmission on that type of work, and demand for it has ticked up lately with the tough economy. But after 30 years of rebuilding transmissions, he’s seeing a shift. Now, steadily more of his business revolves around installing remanufactured transmissions. The reasons are many, he says. More complex vehicles and transmissions, greater interest from OE suppliers, attractive warranties, a better value proposition and a superior product are making remanufactured transmissions more attractive. They may turn less quick profit than repairs, but Marynow finds it increasingly tough to tell his average major overhaul candidate with a straight face they’re better off repairing. “It’s probably more profitable for me to fix them here, but it ends up better for the customer if they buy a replacement,” he says. “It pays off in the long run for both of us.” Especially, Marynow says, if the reman is an OE product. Products supplied by automakers typically come fully updated, painstakingly reassembled, backed by strong warranties, and are readily sourced through and supported by a strong network of parts dealers.

The end result of most GM Powertrain transmission jobs at Competition is a speedy installation, a transmission that works like new and satisfied customers, few, if any of whom, ever come back. But that’s a good thing, Marynow says. In this business, of course, a satisfied customer is one who doesn’t come back, at least not that often. “Very few GM reman jobs come back to us or anyone else for warranty work,” he says. Remanufactured transmissions offered through GM Powertrain offer a great example. Marynow installs some 50 to 60 a year, mostly workhorses like 4L60Es, 4T65Es and 4T60Es. Supplied by a local GM Parts dealer, they offer the speediest, most reliable solution for the GM customer facing a major overhaul, he says. Easy to install, especially with ready GM support, and carrying 3-year, 100,000-mile warranties, the transmissions deliver a peace of mind hard to duplicate with either rebuilds or non-OE remans. “In the end, the customer wins,” he says. “There’s no guesswork with these transmissions, each component is broken down and checked. You can rely on them. And the nationwide warranty is something that’s hard to match on a rebuild that I might do.” From his shop’s perspective, a GM reman usually means an easier job. Because they’re from the vehicle maker, they’re easy to install. Plus, they’re sourced quickly from the local GM Parts dealer. If installation problems crop up, the dealer is there to help, as is GM technical support. “We’ve taken advantage of the GM toll-free support,” he says. “We had one recently where there was a transmission with a wiring problem. We took the diagnostic code, gave it to the GM rep and he faxed information on a diagnostic flow chart. We identified the problem as a loose ground and solved it. Without that help, we’re just throwing darts.”

GM 4L60E Four Speed RWD Automatic Transmission

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