<VV> Brake shoes

[kaczmarek at charter.net]

Folks
> 
> From: Padgett <pp2 at 6007.us>
> Date: 2005/08/18 Thu AM 07:35:25 EST
> To: virtualvairs at corvair.org
> Subject: <VV> Brake shoes
 
> Most computer programs used to manage auto parts have dropdowns that 
> require make, model, year, and engine before displaying the parts. His 
> question was based on the choices in the dropdown and had nothing to do 
> with knowlege or lack thereof.

Allow me to respectfully disagree.

While I agree that your analysis of the computer system in parts houses is dead on, while training parts people, I often ask the question....
"do you think that (in this case) the brake shoes have anything to do with the engine??" All this shows is the lack of knowledge of the counterperson. 

If you have, say a 84 Ford F-100, The Rear shoes for a 2X2
are the same regardless if you have the smallest engine, the 4.9  Straight 6, or the largest V-8.  A good question or statement to make would be, "I'd recommend/Do you want Riveted shoes vice Bonded for a Truck."

Same as if the person was asking for a tie rod end or a ball joint. You have to ask yourself 2 questions.
Does engine size have anything to do with a tie rod end??
and
How stupid do you want to sound to the customer??

If it's a 4X4 you might ask THAT question if suspension parts are requested. 


Now if you are talking engine specific stuff, like Tune Up, filters, gaskets, etc etc...if you Don't ask engine size, you ARE incompetent, or just haven't been in the business long. 

And don't put a whole bunch of stock in ASE Parts Specialist badges. I was in the business less than a year and I passed it. OTOH, the Western Auto Managers had to take it in Virginia Beach, and out of 30, only 5 passed the first time. 

Now if you see a Parts person who is ASE Certified Parts GM, or ASE Certified Parts FORD, then someone knows their stuff, those tests are very difficult to pass. 

Regards
Hank