Brakes, Bearings, and Branding – A Dynamic Week on the Road

Brakes, Bearings, and Branding – A Dynamic Week on the Road

This week was a blend of creativity, quick thinking, and a bit of improvisation. Here's a detailed look into what it was like.

Monday: Designs and Snow Delays

Monday started off quite relaxed, giving me a chance to focus on some creative tasks. I worked on T-shirt designs, a yard sign, and car magnets. These items are part of our effort to build brand visibility and offer unique merchandise to our customers. I had a brake job scheduled, but due to snow the previous week, it was rescheduled for later. This unexpected free time allowed me to dive deep into the design process, finalizing ideas and preparing for production.

Tuesday: Unexpected Turns and Repairs

Tuesday took an unexpected turn right from the start. The customer with the rescheduled brake job called to see if I could fit it in today instead. I had a door handle repair and a welding gig lined up later, but I managed to work him in. Flexibility is key in this line of work.

The brake job was on a 2008 Ford Focus in Covington, Louisiana. When I got there, I realized the extent of the damage: the rotors and pads were completely shot, with the pads worn down to metal on metal. This not only affected the braking performance but could also have caused further damage to the bearings or bushings in the front end. We discussed the need for a more in-depth diagnosis later to ensure there weren't any hidden issues. This interaction highlighted the importance of regular maintenance and early detection of problems.

Next, I headed to Mandeville, Louisiana, to fix a broken interior door handle on a 2010 Buick Lucerne. It was a simple 15-minute job, but the customer's gratitude made it all worthwhile. Quick fixes like these remind me of the value we bring to our customers' daily lives. Interestingly, the previous customer worked at the restaurant where I had a tack weld scheduled, making it a productive and interconnected day. The welding job went smoothly, adding another satisfied customer to our list.

Midweek: Design Finalizations

The rest of the week was focused on finalizing the designs I worked on Monday and ordering samples. Seeing the designs come to life in tangible products is always exciting. This process involves selecting the right materials, ensuring print quality, and making sure the final product aligns with our brand's vision. We also planned a few promotional strategies to launch these new items in our merch store and on social media.

Key Takeaway: The Sports Car Dilemma

One important takeaway from this week is that using a sports car for mechanic work is far from ideal. I had to swap out tools multiple times for the various jobs I did, which was quite the hassle. It's clear that a dedicated service truck is essential for efficiency and convenience. Currently, I'm still on the lookout for the right service truck that meets all my needs. This week's challenges reinforced the necessity of having the right vehicle for the job.

Reflection

This week was a mix of creative tasks, spontaneous repairs, and valuable lessons. From tackling unexpected brake issues to finalizing merchandise designs, it's all part of the dynamic life of a mobile mechanic. Flexibility and quick thinking are key, and every week brings its unique set of challenges and achievements. While the search for the perfect service truck continues, I'm committed to providing top-notch service and finding innovative ways to grow our business.