When a monthly bog is done over two months, it means one thing, ACDC is busy. But writing this helps keep me sane. Some would say it is not working.
A Great Book
I fixed cars and motorcycles for a living from 1967 to 1977 for someone else and ran my own shop from 1977 to 2004. As a veteran of the motor vehicle industry I am sometimes amazed at the talent a technician must have to tackle a tough problem with confidence and determination. The sheer amount on knowledge is mind boggling. Will Electric Cars make that job harder? That topic was discussed at a class I taught in New Hampshire recently.
Here are the questions to consider;
1. How many ways can a gas (or diesel) motor vehicle fail that causes a check engine light or drive ability concern vs. a battery only car (EV)?
2. How many sensors and systems does each car have compared to each other?
3. Can carbon build up cause issues with EVs?
4. Understanding the “wheel to grave” issues, are any cars carbon free?
5. Knowing that CO, HC, NOx and CO2 are created just to travel on wheels (not included are foot powered types) what is your best choice?
6. What type of electrical generation is used in the driving of EVs in your area?
These and many more valid questions we raised and answers given. There were no “climate change deniers” so no fights broke out. As the industry moves forward cars will change even more. Some of you may move with the changes. Trends will come and go (like fins on Cadillacs). Knowing the answers to questions is what technicians get paid to do. Installing the parts in secondary.
Lastly, if you are looking for a good book to read get a copy of “Zen and the Art of Motorcycle Maintenance”. I read it when it came out in 1974. The author, Robert Pirsig, died recently so I ordered another copy. It has a way of lifting up those that can fix things.
