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Design-Based Repairs
Richard Perry
(90-minute)

Audio Sample:



Manufacturers are using a wide range of advanced materials in new vehicle design. Estimators and technicians need to know what these materials are and how they impact the collision repair process. In this session, we will cover techniques for metal identification and the proper repair methods by material. We will also discuss the reasons why automobile manufacturers have made such an aggressive transition to the use of advanced steels in new vehicle construction. With the diversity of materials being used in today's vehicle designs, it is imperative to understand a vehicle's structural content before beginning any repairs. Repairs should then follow OEM procedures to efficiently, economically and properly return a collision-damaged vehicle to its original design specifications.

· Learn to find the proper repair methods per vehicle and make sure they have the right equipment before commencing repairs.
· Learn how to ensure that technicians have the proper training and ability to perform repairs correctly.
· Understand why you cannot use the same repair methods on today's vehicles that worked just a few years ago.


Richard Perry
Chief Automotive
Rossford OH United States

As Manager of Training & Insurance Relations for Chief Automotive Technologies, Richard Perry is responsible for keeping pace with the multitude of changes taking place within the automotive industry, and making certain Chief's world-class training curriculum accurately reflects those changes so that technicians completing Chief University™ training are well prepared to properly repair today's high-tech and sophisticated vehicles. Richard joined Chief Automotive Technologies as a training instructor in 1996, after 15 years in the body shop business as a lead body and structural repair technician. In 2005, he was named head of District Sales Manager Training and began working with OEMs to determine current and future changes in automotive technology; how those changes would impact training materials and techniques, and then to develop the curriculum that specifically addressed those new technology issues. Today Richard spends a great deal of his time at OEM research and technical facilities, working side by side with the top OEM engineers. Richard is called on frequently by OEMs to consult on both proper repair procedures as well as the design of new equipment required to repair newly developed features. Additionally, Richard serves as Chief's liaison to the insurance industry, as Chief University training is a requirement for appraisers from many of the nation's primary insurance providers. He also serves as Chief's representative at a number of industry conferences, including CIC and NATEF, as well as national and international industry trade shows.