The Alternators Twist on Driveability COLUMN BY KEVIN MARKEL Editor’s Note: We are pleased to introduce new technical columnist Kevin Markel who will address the drivability angle of alternator problems and diagnosis of alternator failures. He begins this month by sharing a little bit about himself. Having more than 23 years of drive- ability experience coupled with a back- ground in electronics has made Pro Auto Tech what it proudly is today. Now oper- ating as the oldest independent training company with continuous operations, Pro Auto Tech’s research and development takes place in our Florida driveability repair shop. My relationship to this industry began at an early age, learning the dynamics of a simple oil change and tune-up of the family car. Always wanting to be chal- lenged, I was continually searching for new ways to become successful; making a few dollars starting with lawn care at age 10 and then learning the trade of mechanic in my best friend’s family garage business during junior high school. My interest grew as I expanded my knowledge with formal education and further hands-on training. Later, employment opportunities launched my electrical engineering career and enhanced my knowledge, but some- thing was missing. I knew because of my roots in mechanics that it was where I belonged, only now with a splash of elec- trical and mechanical mixed. That combination, along with all the working relationships and friendships, made it apparent this was to be my greatest undertaking yet. Understanding auto- mobiles and electronics was one thing, yet understanding customers and_ their lack of what electronic engine control is, was quite another. Hearing such com- ments as, “Does this mean you can fix the digital clock on my dash,’ was a chal- lenge, not to mention the day-to-day operations of a business. Our reputation grew quickly and led to aiding other shops with troubleshooting what is now known as “driveability.” In turn, this led to training other techs in both independent repair shops, as well as consulting services to General Motors and Ford Motor Company. I have had a strong working relation- ship with Snap-on since 1985, offering customer familiarity training with test equipment, and involvement with the development of the MT-2500 scan tool in 1987. This was followed by information training and support of the Troubleshooter Program into the “90s with the scan tool, and product testing on a variety of diag- nostic equipment that continues today. Training and consulting for local, state and federal municipalities nationwide has grown, resulting in over 23 seminars that offer ongoing technical training and integration of diagnostic equipment to independent repair facilities. The approach is analytical, efficient and profitable in the world of driveability. To date, Pve had more than 50,000 technicians attend my seminars, and added support can be found on participating net-based forums. I look forward to contributing to the arena of electrical rebuilding and appreci- ate all old and new relationships I might make along the way. Kevin Markel is owner of Pro Auto Tech, Ft. Meyers, Fla. Please e-mail technical questions to polly@erenewspaper.com to be addressed in future issues. LETRIE|