Quantcast
Jump to content


Clips and Fasteners ---- Grrr... they can get the best of you


Gonzo

Recommended Posts

Clips and Fasteners

 

 

Almost every procedure you run across on a car is going to include some sort of clip or fastener that needs to be disconnected. I sometimes wonder why the engineers design some of these unbelievable multi-clipping-overly-complicated fasteners. They'll take a simple project and turn it into a test of my patience and reasoning abilities. Sometimes I think they're only trying to find some way to make my tasks even more difficult than it needs to be. Maybe it's job security, and without making a few subtle changes to an already existing fastener they'd be out on the street with the rest of us. I'll bet in those "Towers of Powers" there's a group of engineers whose sole purpose for collecting a paycheck is to design some sort of new "Rube Goldberg" contraption to hold two pieces of wire, hose,or some body part together. Now, it's my job to figure out how to remove them.

 

 

You can actually date cars by the type of fasteners used during its production. The straight or slotted screw head came first, then around 1908 the Robertson screw (square headed fastener) was invented and was used widely on Ford's model T's. By 1930 the Phillips (named after its creator Henry Phillips) came into use on production cars. Let's not forget about the Allen head type fastener either, date unknown. (Oh, those are a whole lot of fun to deal with. Anyone who has ever taken the bolts out of an old VW CV shaft will know what I'm talking about.) The Allen head inventor is presumably an American named Gilbert Heublein, but no one knows for sure. Just as well, if I knew who it was, I'd probably want a few words with him; maybe even show him where he can put his inventive idea to better use.

 

 

Somebody had to invent the first wooden screws and pegs, and as with most inventions somebody always tries to improve on it. Soon, the industrial age brought the metal screws and various other fasteners as the standard. For a longtime, many years mind you, bolts, clamps, and other fasteners remained pretty much the same. Oh, there were the occasional engineering attempts of reverse threads and odd sizes, but for the most part connectors and fasteners were basically the same for many years. Then around 1967 the Camcar Textron Corporation introduced the "Torx" bit type fasteners. It wasn't long before they started showing up under the hood of a car. Now every mechanic had to rush out and purchase a whole new set of tools to remove them. Similar to the Allen head, but with more surface area (more or less like a star shape) they could be difficult to work with at times. I know I'm not the first one to see one of those Torx bits round off while trying to remove it, and I'm definitely not the first one who had more than a few "profound"comments about them. Especially after the head would rust shut or the size of the Torx bit was one size too small for the bolt but, you only found that out after it stripped the remaining head off the fastener.

 

 

These days clips and fasteners have even more variations than ever before. We've gone to using plastic. Plastic, plastic, plastic... big, small, colored, smooth, rough, tight fitting and loose fitting plastic fasteners. Old Rube Goldberg would be proud of these fiddly connections mechanics have to deal with these days. Some you push, some you pull, and some you do both at the same time. There are fasteners you push the center section in, and others you pull the center section out. Some you flip up a section and then push down another section… The variations are endless. I just don't get it, all this effort to make something stay in place. I understand the little CPA connector("connection position assurance"), I think of these little plastic holders like the safety pin on a grenade. The CPA holds the main connection in place, so the main connection can't be accidentally removed ...but...really... do ya have to make some of them so friggin' complicated?!?!? Some are easy,you just pop it up and off comes the main connector, others, well... not so easy. You might have to scratch your head a few times, and figure out how the darn thing comes off.

 

 

Read most R&R procedures for a fender trim, a fuel pump, a radio or for that matter just about any component,and you'll find it starts out with the basic instructions, "Remove connector"or "Remove CPA". Hey, wait a minute...how the heck do you that? I hardly ever see any of the instructions detail the exact method of undoing some of these wacky fasteners. If they do, the directions aren't always clear. I know I'll have to read it over and over again just so I understand what in the world they meant. I swear Rube Goldberg has influenced those engineers to design some of these diabolical connections.

 

 

Then there are those clips that you release with your thumb, and it slides almost completely off, and then hangs on for dear life. You tug and you pull, you push it back on all the way, and try it again, only to get it stuck in the exact same spot as the last time. After a bit of coarse vocabulary and another tug or two, it finally comes off. But, when you put it back on it falls off with the slightest twitch. Oh come on...enough already!! Try as you may, these new plastic connections can get the best of you. I'll never understand why they keep coming up with new and different fasteners when some of the older ones worked perfectly well.

 

 

Maybe I should send a box of Chinese finger traps to these engineers. Yea,see how they like it when they get stuck. They might be so busy trying to remove their fingers from these little torture devices that they'll take a break from creating new torture clips for me to deal with.

 

 

I guess it's all in a day's work for a mechanic, though. Every detail has to be figured out right down to the lonely plastic connector to get the job done. Frustrating at times and aggravating at others, it's just part of the job. The engineers design this stuff, the factories build it, and the mechanics fix it. Simple would be better, but that's not the Rube Goldberg School of Engineering way of doing things.

 

Idon't design em', I don't build em' … I just fix em'.

 


View full article

Link to comment
Share on other sites



Yea, those quirky safety clips (CPA's) and fasteners can really try my patience at times.

Forgot to mention some of the other popular connections and about ordering them...

I can always add or remove sections. As long as I stay within my word count for the editors I can do just about anything... well...almost... still have to figure out those darn CPA connections. LOL

 

Gonzo, you are right. Fasteners can be a lot of fun. Sometimes having to wait on the correct fastener that your ordered can really slow everything down.

 

 

 

Link to comment
Share on other sites

ROFL... TWICE!! Yup, been there. One of the bodyshops I work with has a huge cabinet full of hardware and body clips, and like ya said... half the time they can't find the correct ones.

Wires ties... the "duct tape" of fasteners. LOL

good one Joe... made my day

 

Oh boy, this can be frustrating. A few weeks back on a busy Friday afternoon I decided to help out and take care of customer who ran over a parking lot curb and ripped the bottom engine cover off. The splash shield had a number of those "fancy fasteners", missing. I got out my two draws of fasteners that I purchased from my hardware rep because he claimed, "With this kit you will have every fastener clip known to mankind". Well guess what? Yup, didn't have the right clip.

 

So, when all else fails I used the ultimate fastener, the wire tie!

 

(I had to call the dealer to order the right clips and get her back).

Link to comment
Share on other sites

my interpretation of those CPA clips : we developped a connector's design that we know it ain't adequate, so we spent more time and money "engineering" somekind of locking clip

 

 

and so true about those clips/retainers : even with a plethora of various reatainers, you never ever have the right size needed right now

 

lol

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • 3 years later...

Last week I had to take the entire headliner down in 07 Jeep Commander to change the sunroof out. Talk about clips and fasteners. Everything is designed for easy installation not removal. It seemed every plastic bit of trim I grabbed wanted to snap in pieces before the metal clips let go.

Link to comment
Share on other sites

  • Have you checked out Joe's Latest Blog?

         4 comments
      A recent study, done by Harvard Business School, concluded that the real problem with attracting and retaining employees has more to do with the workplace environment, not pay or benefits. While the study did find that an adequate pay plan and offering an attractive benefits package did help with recruiting and retention, it’s not enough to satisfy the needs of employees, especially those of front-line workers.
      The study also stated that in 2021, many companies were convinced that giving raises, sign-on bonuses, and other perks would solve the worker shortage problem and prevent people from quitting. However, this strategy did not work. So, what does work regarding attracting quality people and keeping them employed?
      Essentially, it all comes down to the culture of your company.  Management: do all it can to consider the individual needs of your employees. Your employees want to feel that they have a voice, that their opinion counts, and that their role in your company is both respected and recognized. Yes, pay and a great benefits package will go a long way toward making your employees feel secure, but that’s only financial security. People want more than money.
      To attract and keep top talent requires creating a company that people feel proud to work for. You need to reach the hearts and minds of your employees. Become a leader that people are enthusiastic about working for. You want your employees bragging to their friends and family that your shop is a great place to work!
      Step one to attracting and retaining quality employees: Create an amazing workplace environment for your employees!  Trust me, happy employees make happy shop owners too!
  • Similar Topics

    • By carmcapriotto
      This episode is sponsored by AutoLeap. AutoLeap is a cloud-based all-in-one automotive invoice software that helps you supercharge your mechanic shop. Their customers have experienced:
      30% increase in revenue by improving transparency and trust
      50% reduction in time spent researching and ordering parts
      10% increase in profit margins through robust reporting
      Click here to learn more about AutoLeap and schedule a demo:
       
      AutoLeap Link: http://bit.ly/3GRgO88
       
      In this podcast episode, Coach Chris Cotton discusses the importance of having a business coach for independent auto repair shop owners. He lists 16 reasons why having a coach is beneficial, including providing accountability, fresh perspectives, and unbiased insight. A coach can also help with setting attainable goals, improving organization, and celebrating wins. Additionally, they can assist with growth strategies, financial management, employee management and training, and industry expertise. Coach Chris emphasizes that having a coach is essential for shop owners to achieve their dreams and take their businesses to the next level.
      Should You Have a Business Coach? [00:01:44] Coach Chris Cotton explains why everyone should have a business coach, the challenges of running a business, and how a coach can help you achieve your goals.
      Unbiased Insight [00:06:40] A business coach provides unbiased constructive criticism and insights that friends, family, and coworkers may not be able to offer.
      Fresh Perspective [00:08:02] A business coach can help you identify problems and solutions that you may have overlooked due to being too involved in your business.
      Growth [00:07:29] A coach can help you create a strategic business plan to boost growth, qualify your database, and generate leads.
      Balance [00:08:21] A coach can teach you how to balance your professional and personal life, encouraging you to take breaks and prioritize work-life balance.
      Employee Management [00:11:50] A coach can assist in building a strong team, providing guidance on hiring, training, and retaining skilled employees, and implementing performance management systems.
      Don't forget to rate and review us!
      Connect with Chris:
      [email protected]
      940.400.1008
      www.autoshopcoaching.com
      Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AutoFixAutoShopCoaching
      Youtube: https://bit.ly/3ClX0ae
       
      #autofixautoshopcoaching #autofixbeautofixing #autoshopprofits #autoshopprofit #autoshopprofitsfirst #autoshopleadership #autoshopmanagement #autorepairshopcoaching #autorepairshopconsulting #autorepairshoptraining #autorepairshop #autorepair
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      One of our listeners emailed in with the following question.
      I Always wondered why, when we have another marketing company review and grade our website, it always come out pretty crappy on the scorecard? From loading speed, to keywords, SEO, overall performance etc. I have used Lighthouse and some other things to gauge the performance, but the numbers never seem to match what the other party produces. I feel like some marketing companies use smoke and mirrors for selling their websites that really may not be any better than what we already have. I’m sure this is an issue for others too.
      We answer that question in this episode.
      Talking Points
      There’s a big difference between a solicited audit and an unsolicited audit There are no standards in place Much of what is done in marketing is based on opinion or an internal belief system Trust your “BS meter”  
      How To Get In Touch with Cinch CRM
       
      Website - https://cinch.io/ 
      LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/cinchplatform/ 
      Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/CinchPlatform/ 
      YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@CinchPlatform 
      How To Get In Touch with Shop Marketing Pros
      Group - Auto Repair Marketing Mastermind
      Website - shopmarketingpros.com 
      Facebook - facebook.com/shopmarketingpros 
      Thanks to our partner, RepairPal. Visit the Web HERE
      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By carmcapriotto
      The podcast episode features a Rad Air Complete Car Care facility tour in Strongsville, Ohio. Carm speaks with Mike Munger, the location's franchisee, and the franchisor Andy Fiffick. We discuss the design of the facility, the number of bays and technicians, and the types of services offered.
      They also mention the company's reputation for being able to fix cars that other shops cannot. The conversation shifts to the importance of building a strong company culture, providing employees with a shower and a full kitchen. They also tour the service advisor area and office, discussing the shop's busy schedule and the various seasons that bring in different types of business. The episode highlights the importance of staying up-to-date and providing excellent customer service in the automotive industry.
      Watch Full Video Episode HERE Designing the Facility (00:00:17) The design of the facility, including the number of bays and technicians, and how they designed the facility from the ground up. Fixing Cars that Other Shops Cannot (00:05:03) How their company has carved out a niche in the community by fixing cars that other shops cannot and how they have a reputation for being able to fix any car. Franchise history (00:06:47) The history of Rad Air Complete Car Care and how it became a franchisor. Employee culture (00:10:27) The importance of treating employees like family and providing them with amenities such as showers and a kitchen. Booking Schedule (00:12:59) Mike Munger mentions that they are generally booked a week out, but currently only a couple of days due to the slower season. Seasonal Business (00:13:20) The three busy cycles of the business: winter, driving season, and summer. They also mention that they have not had a winter or spring yet, which affects their business. Evolution of Business Model (00:17:07) How their business model evolved from being a radiator and air conditioning shop to a complete car care service, adding tires, hybrids, and EVs to their services. They also mention how they had to pivot to stay relevant in the market. Thanks to our Partner, Dorman Products. Dorman gives people greater freedom to fix vehicles by constantly developing new repair solutions that put owners and technicians first. Take the Dorman Virtual Tour at www.DormanProducts.com/Tour
      Connect with the Podcast:
      -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
      -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com
      -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
       


      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio
    • By ASOG Podcast
      Is A Major Car Dealership Really Scamming Women? Are They BUSTED?
    • By carmcapriotto
      As a customer, have you ever walked into a business and been put off by the unkempt appearance of the employees or the disarray of the business? If so, you're not alone. Join our panel as they discuss the importance of professionalism in the automotive industry and how it can impact customer trust, employee morale, and overall success. We should expect nothing less than a professional appearance and attitude from those in the automotive industry, and we should continue to project that image to the public. Kevin and Renae Oswald, Oswald’s Service, Idaho Falls and Rexburg, Idaho.
      Vic Tarasik, CEO of Shop Owner Coach. Vic’s previous episodes HERE.
      Show Notes:
      Watch Video Episode HERE (00:03:19) The panel discusses the importance of dressing professionally in the automotive industry, both at conferences and in the shop, and the impact of a professional image on customers and the public in terms of the Importance of Professional Image. (00:05:07) Kevin Oswald talks about having all employees in uniform, including technicians, service advisors, and managers, and the importance of maintaining a professional look (00:00:01) Carm Capriotto introduces the topic of dressing for success and the importance of representing your brand professionally, both at conferences and in the public eye (00:09:21) The panel talks about the importance of dressing professionally to be treated professionally and the impact of a professional appearance on customers i (00:11:28) The panel discusses how a professional appearance impacts customer perception of the quality of work and the importance of having a professional-looking shop to attract customers in Customer Perception. (00:19:28) The benefits of participating in networking groups outside of the automotive industry (00:21:40) The importance of having a dress code policy and maintaining a professional appearance, including facial hair. (00:29:05) The importance of dressing for success by creating a brand through uniforms (00:39:05) Renae Oswald encourages more women to be involved in the industry and to give their perspective, especially as consumers and owners Thanks to our Partners Shop-Ware and Delphi Technologies Shop-Ware: More Time. More Profit. Shop-Ware Shop Management getshopware.com Delphi Technologies: Keeping current on the latest vehicle systems and how to repair them is a must for today’s technicians. DelphiAftermarket.com
      Connect with the Podcast
      -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 -The Aftermarket Radio Network: https://aftermarketradionetwork.com -Special episode collections: https://remarkableresults.biz/collections
           


      Click to go to the Podcast on Remarkable Results Radio


  • Our Sponsors



×
×
  • Create New...