Mechanic vs. Technician

 

Recently, Jack McGinnis the technician diagnosed a speedometer that registered vehicle speed when the vehicle was in drive but not moving and a transmission that would not shift. Ineffective repairs by Bryce Gallagher, a mechanic, included replacing the engine computer, the vehicle speed sensor (twice), and the wiring from the vehicle speed sensor. Jack checked for AC voltage at the battery. It was excessive. Using his oscilloscope, AC coupled, Jack McGinnis found excessive AC ripple at the battery post of the alternator. He suggested that the mechanic change the alternator and after the repair, Jack checked the alternator again. The electrical noise was gone. Excessive AC noise can stymie electronic modules and affect digital communications.

The point I am making is that there are mechanics and there are technicians and the industry certainly needs both. Mechanics enjoy the feel of quality steel tools in their calloused, skillful hands; the fine smell of burning metal as the mechanic uses flame-torch cutting to sever an old exhaust system from a vehicle; or the sound of a precision brake lathe resurfacing a heavy drum. A mechanic knows how to take apart an entire engine and put it back together.

Technicians enjoy the challenge of diagnosing a problem using advanced technology—computer-based analysis, digital multimeters, oscilloscopes and knowledge of how the complex network of computers work together on a typical vehicle.

 

To be a good technician, you must have a love for the technical side and a passion for the mechanical performance of these complicated vehicles. To be a good mechanic, you need the skills to use hand tools effectively and perform repairs swiftly while maintaining a high-degree of quality.

 

Jack McGinnis, the technician, effectively diagnosed the problem with the alternator and Bryce Gallagher, the mechanic, performed a quality repair to quickly get the customer on her way.

Both are terrific professions and rewarding careers. This is Jack McGinnis, signing off for now.