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SOS - Shop Owner Solutions

SOS - Shop Owner Solutions

By: Babcox Media
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About this listen

 In this podcast series, Shop Owner Solutions hosts discuss some of the nightmares independent automotive repair shop owners face with leading shop owners from across the country. Shop Owner Solutions is intended to help you avoid the 3 am panic – together, Vic Tarasik from Shop Owner Coach and Doug Kaufman from ShopOwner magazine will explore the things that cause you the most stress, put your anxiety into high gear and keep you from feeling like you’re achieving the success you deserve.Copyright Babcox Media Economics Management Management & Leadership
Episodes
  • Diagnose Mystery Vehicle Vibrations: Tests, OEM Parts and Fixes for Auto Repair Shops

    Diagnose Mystery Vehicle Vibrations: Tests, OEM Parts and Fixes for Auto Repair Shops
    Jan 30 2026
    Doug Kaufman from ShopOwner and Angel Lara from TrakMotive dig into the real causes of mysterious vehicle vibrations—beyond tires and wheel balance. They discuss overlooked parts (wheel bearings, axles, suspension), damage from improper parts or installs, diagnostic blind spots, and how better advisor/technician/customer communication plus OEM-spec parts reduce comebacks.
      • Vibrations often stem from less-obvious components: wheel bearings, worn axles, suspension, rust damage.
      • Improper parts or lifts and oversized tires accelerate wear and cause new failures.
      • OEM-spec parts and correct installation prevent collateral drivetrain damage.
      • Misdiagnosis often arises from missing customer detail or inability to replicate driving conditions.
      • Simple tests (actuate suspension, listen on the lift) and clearer communication improve first-time fixes.
      • TrakMotive supplies OEM-engineered parts to lower warranty claims and boost satisfaction.
    ShopOwnerMag.com
    TrakMotive.Com
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    22 mins
  • Shop Owner Solutions: Addressing CV Axle Issues in Lifted Trucks

    Shop Owner Solutions: Addressing CV Axle Issues in Lifted Trucks
    Aug 12 2025
    In this episode of Shop Owner Solutions, Doug Kaufman interviews Miguel Cornejo from TrakMotive about the increasing issues with CV axle failures, especially in lifted Toyota and Subaru vehicles. They discuss how lifting these vehicles changes the undercar geometry, leading to increased stress and premature wear on CV joints and boots. Cornejo explains that many customers experience clicking or popping sounds and grease leaks after lifting their vehicles.

    The conversation emphasizes the importance of educating technicians and DIYers about these potential problems and recommends upgrading to application-specific CV axles designed for lifted vehicles, like TrakMotive's XTT line, which compensates for the altered angles. They also touch on the significance of considering motor mount durability, especially in Subarus with horizontally opposed engines, where vibrations can exacerbate CV axle issues. Miguel encourages listeners to visit the TrakMotive website for specific problem-solving resources and to contact their tech department with any questions.
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    17 mins
  • Winterizing Your Business with TrakMotive's HDX Axles

    Winterizing Your Business with TrakMotive's HDX Axles
    Feb 24 2025
    While we often focus on engines and brakes, CV axles are crucial components that often get overlooked. Miguel highlights that the definition of "heavy-duty" has evolved. It's no longer just limited to semis and mining equipment. Today, many standard vehicles — ride-sharing cars, delivery vehicles and work trucks— experience conditions demanding a more robust axle design.

    In this episode of Shop Owner Solutions, host Doug Kaufman delves into the often-overlooked world of heavy-duty CV axles and the significant business opportunities they present, especially during harsh winter conditions. Miguel Cornejo, Product Manager at TrakMotive, a leading manufacturer of CV axles, drive shafts, and window regulators explains the challenges and solutions surrounding CV axle maintenance and repair.

    The HD Extreme axle currently covers a significant portion of the automotive market and TrakMotive is constantly expanding its coverage. Cornejo encourages shops to check TrakMotive's website (trakmotive.com) for the latest updates. Actionable Tips for Shop Owners:
    • Educate Your Customers: Emphasize the cost of breakdowns versus the long-term value of a durable axle like the HDX.
    • Proactive Inspections: Encourage regular inspections during oil changes to identify potential issues early.
    • Leverage TrakMotive Resources: Utilize their website, email support, and technical line for additional information and support.
    By focusing on preventative maintenance and utilizing high-quality parts like TrakMotive's HD Extreme axles, shop owners can position themselves for success. This is not simply about replacing parts—it's about providing customers with peace of mind and building a stronger, more resilient business. Contact TrakMotive today to learn more about the HDX axle and its potential for your shop.
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    15 mins
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