We have had people ask us why our labor rate is what it is. Especially when then can have work done by someone else cheaper. After asking who is doing the work, we find out that it is a "shade-tree" mechanic that they know. Yes, this person may be able to do the work cheaper, but what is the value of the work being performed?
One large cost of a business like ours is insurance. We are insured for the work we perform and if something occurs because of our work, our insurance is there to cover the costs. Does the shade-tree mechanic have this coverage?
Also, all of our mechanics perform both off-site and on-site training on a regular basis. Many time during the fall and winter, we go to seminars for the lines we carry that have to deal with issues that may have come up over the previous year or new techniques on performing certain repairs. We also have available to us manufacturer based web-trainings that we perform on a regular basis. Does the shade-tree mechanic have this training?
How about safety recalls? We receive up to date information from the lines we carry on recalls and technical service issues. During this past year, one of the major engine manufacturers had a fuel-filter recall. The filter had the possibility of coming apart, allowing fuel to spill and possibly catch fire. Every piece of equipment we had on the floor was inspected and action was taken if needed. Also, if a unit came into our shop and fell into the dates covered by the recall, action was also taken, at the expense of the manufacturer. The shade-tree mechanic cannot offer this service.
If you bring in a piece of equipment, and there are safety systems that are inoperable, bypassed, or completely missing, we will do everything possible to bring the unit back into safe operating status. If a unit that we repaired left our facility in an unsafe manner and someone gets injured because of it, we may be held liable. There have been times when we have had to advise a customer that we cannot do work if we are not allowed to repair these systems. You may feel that we are just trying to increase or labor charge, but we are actually looking out for the safety of the operator or bystanders. Will the shade-tree mechanic turn this work away, or will they give it back to you in an unsafe state?
Are we here to make money? Yes. Everyone here is trying to make a living at this and enjoy our interactions with you. We are not looking at getting rich. We take great pride in the work we do for you. We strive to turn out work that stands above what others do. If there is EVER any question on a repair, PLEASE let us know. We stand behind our work and will do everything possible to satisfy your request.
Jason M Hollowell
General Manager
