AASP/NJ members pack aluminum classes

In an effort to better inform the industry on major technological changes, the Alliance of Automotive Service Providers of New Jersey (AASP/NJ) kicked off their 2015-16 schedule by hosting two meetings that covered the basics of repairs on aluminum-intensive vehicles. September 24th and 29th saw a large gathering of repairers from all across the state convene at Reliable Automotive Equipment, Inc. (RAE) in Belford, NJ. Presented by industry mainstay and owner of RAE Dave Gruskos, those in attendance received an education on the do’s and don’ts on this material sweeping the field, as well as what the future of aluminum repair and other advanced materials might hold.

“Some of the things I show you today might look new to you, but they will definitely be mainstream in the next few years,” Gruskos addressed to the crowd. He discussed various types of rivets and rivet guns that are permeating the market, what to look for in regards to a spot welder and all of the safety equipment necessary to perform both steel and aluminum repairs in the same shop.

After an hour-long slideshow and presentation on these products and procedures, attendees were welcomed to watch some of the products in action, receiving an up-close and personal demonstration on the tools that will soon be required to perform these repairs.

AASP/NJ President Jeff McDowell was very encouraged by the turnout for the two nights. “Since this was a members-only event, I am pleased that so many of our members are being proactive when it comes to new technology,” he says. “It’s our job to make this kind of education available to our membership.”

For more information about AASP/NJ, visit www.aaspnj.org.

Plan ahead for the NORTHEAST^® 2016 Automotive Services Show, March 18-20, 2016 at the Meadowlands Exposition Center in Secaucus, NJ. Visit www.aaspnjnortheast.com for more details.