L to R: Power seat assembly, travel block, steel and plastic worm gears, thrust washer, flexible drive shaft, and tube nut Hi, I’m Lisa Humrich, self-proclaimed automotive amateur and full-time multitasker at Two Men One Garage. I never thought I’d be swapping tips about worm gears  or debating the merits of a flexible drive shaft , but here we are. If there’s one thing I’ve learned while working in the manufacturing world, it’s that the right jargon can make or break a conversation—and sometimes a sale. And the automotive aftermarket seat parts world is NO different. Let me share some of the lessons I’ve picked up along the way. The Value of Getting Specific Before joining this business, I’d never heard of a tube nut , let alone understood its importance in a power seat assembly. Turns out, using the right terminology isn’t just about sounding smart. It’s about avoiding confusion and helping customers find exactly what they need. For example, a rear thrust washer  might sound like a small detail, but it’s essential for smooth movement in power seats. It’s like learning a new language—one that customers and car enthusiasts really appreciate, and it sure makes Barry and my conversations flow more smoothly. Ha! Breaking Down the Components Power seats are more than just comfy cushions that slide back and forth. They’re a complex mix of parts that work together to give you that perfect driving position. Here are some of the parts I’ve come to appreciate: Seat Track Assembly : This is the foundation, letting your seat move forward and backward. Worm/Drive Gear : These clever little spirals convert motor power into precise seat adjustments. Typically, in power seats, the worm gear is also referred to as a drive gear. Flexible Drive Shaft : Think of this as the go-between that transfers motion from the motor to other parts of the system. Tube Nut : It may look unassuming, but it holds critical components together. Thrust Washer : This reduces friction and keeps everything running smoothly. Travel Block : This component is designed to convert rotating motion into linear motion, allowing for precise seat adjustments while maintaining stability. Knowing these terms has made me more confident when talking to customers. Plus, it’s oddly satisfying to sound like I know what I’m doing! The Joy of Troubleshooting One of the biggest surprises for me has been how much I enjoy troubleshooting seat problems. Potential customers often call us frustrated about issues, like a seat that won’t budge or that makes a grinding noise. By listening for clues (like motor sounds or checking for wear on a drive shaft ), I’ve learned to help pinpoint the problem. Sometimes, it’s a worn-out driven gear or a bad switch. Barry often describes power seats as a kind of mechanical sorcery—mysterious at first glance, but perfectly logical once you understand how all the parts work in harmony. There’s nothing better at the end of a call than hearing a relieved “Thank you!” on the other end of the line.   Innovation Meets Tradition One of the coolest things about Two Men One Garage is how we blend modern innovation with classic cars. Barry’s passion for his 1967 Mustang inspired the business, and we’re always working to create aftermarket parts that fit these timeless vehicles. The power seat track assembly that revitalized Barry's vintage Mustang was among the first aftermarket products he customized for Two Men One Garage. It’s remarkable how small changes can have such a significant impact. Building Customer Connections I’ve also learned that people love talking about their cars. When a customer calls and we can explain the role of a rear thrust washer or recommend a part that we do not offer, it builds trust. They’re not just buying a part—they’re getting a little piece of reassurance that their project is on the right track. Bridging the gap between technical jargon and plain English has become one of my favorite parts of the job. Lessons in Quality Control Lastly, I’ve learned that quality is everything in this business. A poorly made tube nut  or an underpowered motor  can lead to major headaches for customers. Barry has a keen eye for testing and ensuring every part we sell is up to the challenge. It’s taught me to appreciate the craftsmanship behind even the smallest components. Final Thoughts Working at Two Men One Garage has been a crash course in automotive lingo and the art of automotive innovation. I’m still learning every day, but now when someone asks about a flexible drive shaft , I can confidently tell them what it does (and why they need it!). To all the automotive amateurs out there: don’t be afraid to dive in and learn the jargon. You might surprise yourself with how much you enjoy it. Got any questions about power seats or the parts that make them move? Drop us a comment—we’d love to chat!

Old OEM plastic cracked gears and new Aftermarket plastic and steel gears Your car’s power seats might not be something you think about every day—until they stop working. The unsung heroes of your driving comfort are the gears that keep your seats sliding, tilting, and reclining smoothly. If you’ve ever faced a power seat failure, you’ve likely wondered: should I stick with plastic gears like the previous OEM gears or upgrade to aftermarket steel ones? Let’s break it down. Steel vs. Plastic: What’s Under Your Seat? DOD5 Gear Kit, Steel ⚙ Steel Gears: Made from high-strength materials, steel gears are designed to withstand significant wear and tear. They’re known for their durability, precision, and reliability, especially in high-load applications like power seat mechanisms. DOD13 Gear Kit , Plastic ⚙ OEM Plastic Gears : Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) plastic gears are standard in many vehicles. Manufacturers favor this lightweight and cost-effective solution to lower overall vehicle costs and improve gas mileage by reducing weight. Saving Your Seat and Your Wallet When your power seat breaks, you have three main options for replacement. The first is to visit the dealership, where the typical solution is replacing the entire seat assembly, which can cost between $800.00 and $1,000.00. Another option is sourcing parts from a salvage yard. While this might seem economical, it requires finding a suitable car, removing the seat assembly, and extracting the needed part—a time-consuming process to obtain a used part, with its own inherent limitations. Lastly, you can opt for an aftermarket part, which is brand new, easy to install, and designed to replace just the broken component. Aftermarket gear parts are available in both plastic and steel. At first glance, OEM plastic gears might seem like the less expensive option. But their shorter lifespan often leads to more frequent replacements, which add up over time. Steel gears, while a bit pricier upfront, offer unmatched durability and are the smartest choice overall. Gear Up With the Right Choice Steel gears deliver unmatched performance and durability, ensuring a more reliable power seat operation even under heavy use. Many drivers have experienced the benefits firsthand, sharing stories of peace of mind and how steel gears made their seats feel brand new again. Unlike OEM plastic gears or used parts from salvage yards, steel gears are cost-effective in the long run and provide a lasting solution. Upgrade today with Two Men One Garage and enjoy the comfort and reliability your vehicle deserves.

In the world of automotive engineering, a flexible drive shaft is one of those underrated mechanical components that can make a huge difference in a project. This pivotal component plays a crucial role in the functioning of various vehicle systems, offering flexibility and efficient power transmission. In simple terms, it’s a shaft designed to transmit rotary power (torque) between two points that aren’t perfectly aligned. Unlike rigid shafts, which need to be straight, flexible drive shafts can bend and twist, making them perfect for tight spaces or tricky angles. How Does it Work? Flexible drive shafts, also known as flex shafts or flexible couplings, are slender, durable, and versatile components that transmit rotary motion. A flexible drive shaft is made from a coil, usually high-strength steel, that’s wrapped tightly to allow bending while still being strong enough to transmit power. The shaft is protected by an outer casing, which keeps it safe from dirt, moisture, and wear. The magic happens when torque is applied to one end, and the coil twists to transfer the power to the other end, even if it must bend around obstacles. Applications in Vehicles One of the key advantages of flexible drive shafts is their ability to transmit power at varying angles and distances. This versatility makes them indispensable in vehicles with complex mechanical layouts or unconventional powertrain configurations. ⚙ Recreational Vehicles In recreational vehicles (RVs), flexible drive shafts are used in power systems like adjustable seats, retractable steps, slide outs and awnings. They allow for smooth power transmission in confined spaces, enabling precise adjustments and movement control without the need for perfect alignment, enhancing convenience and comfort. ⚙ Speedometer Cables In some vehicles, flexible drive shafts are employed in speedometer systems to accurately measure and display the vehicle's speed. The shaft transfers rotational motion from the transmission to the speedometer gauge, providing real-time speed feedback to the driver. ⚙ Power Seat Adjustments Flexible shafts in power seat adjustments enable precise control and smooth operation, providing flexibility to route around obstacles, precision in adjusting seat position, smooth operation, and reliable long-term performance. Importance of Maintenance To ensure the longevity and efficiency of flexible drive shafts, regular maintenance is essential. Periodic inspection for signs of wear, proper lubrication, and addressing any abnormal vibrations or noises can help prevent potential failures and costly repairs down the line. Flexible Drive Shafts: Unsung Heroes In the realm of automotive engineering, flexible drive shafts quietly enable the smooth operation of various vehicle systems. From steering assistance to speed measurement, these versatile components play a critical role in ensuring driving comfort, performance, and safety. By understanding the importance of flexible drive shafts and their applications in vehicles, we gain a deeper appreciation for the intricate mechanisms that keep our cars moving forward. Remember, the next time you hit the road, take a moment to appreciate the silent efficiency of the flexible drive shaft working behind the scenes to enhance your driving experience!

If you’ve dealt with a power seat that won’t work properly, you know how frustrating it can be. Power seats are a convenience we often take for granted—until they malfunction, impacting both comfort and safety. And let’s face it, many of us have experienced the struggle of being left with a seat stuck in a position that only suited the last, possibly shorter, driver! But don’t worry; before replacing the entire seat assembly, know that many common power seat issues can be diagnosed and fixed without draining your wallet. At Two Men One Garage, we specialize in helping DIYers and automotive enthusiasts find simple solutions to seat problems. Let’s walk through some basic troubleshooting steps to help diagnose what’s going wrong with your power seat and how you can get it working again. Identify the Symptoms Start by identifying the exact issue. Power seat problems can manifest in various ways, such as: The seat won’t move in any direction The seat moves, but only partially or only in one direction The seat is stuck in one position The seat moves, but very slowly or inconsistently You hear strange noises (grinding, clicking, etc.) Understanding what the seat is doing (or not doing) will help you narrow down the potential causes. Check the Basics Before diving into troubleshooting,  check the basics: - Ignition: Make sure the car is on or in accessory mode, as power seats often need the ignition to be engaged. - Fuses: A blown fuse is a common cause of power seat failure. Locate the fuse box (usually under the dash or hood) and check for a blown fuse related to the power seat system. - Seat Switch: Inspect the seat adjustment switch to ensure it’s not physically damaged. Inspect for Electrical Issues If the basics check out, the next step is to investigate electrical problems: - Loose or Damaged Wiring: Power seats rely on wiring that runs underneath the seat. Over time, wires can become damaged or disconnected, especially if the seat has been moved frequently. Check for any obvious signs of wear or disconnected wires. - Test the Seat Motor: Use a multimeter to test whether the seat motor is receiving power. If no power is reaching the motor, the issue is likely upstream, possibly with the wiring or the seat switch. - Relays and Connectors: Inspect the connectors and relays. Corrosion or loose connections can cause intermittent power failures. Mechanical Problems If the electrical system is functioning properly, the issue could be mechanical. Power seats are moved by small motors and gears, which can wear out over time: - Seat Track Obstruction: Sometimes foreign objects (coins, pens, etc.) can get lodged in the seat track, blocking movement. Clear any obstructions to see if that resolves the issue. - Worn or Stripped Gears: Power seat mechanisms often use gears to translate the motor’s power into seat movement. If these gears are stripped or worn, the seat may move poorly or not at all. Replacing worn gears or motors is a common fix for this problem. Motor Failure If none of the above steps solved the issue, the seat motor itself may have failed. A common sign of a failing motor is not hearing it run and there is no movement at all. Replacing the motor is usually the solution in this case, and it’s something you can do yourself with the right tools and replacement parts. At Two Men One Garage, we offer aftermarket power seat motors that fit a wide range of vehicles, from classic Ford Mustangs to modern trucks. Rather than replacing the entire seat assembly, you can swap out a faulty motor at a fraction of the cost. When to Call a Professional If you’ve gone through all these steps and the issue persists, it may be time to consult a professional. Some power seat issues can stem from more complex problems like a faulty control module or even a failing electrical system that requires advanced diagnostics. "Bringing Your Seat Back to Life!" Power seat issues can be annoying, but with some basic troubleshooting, you can often diagnose and fix the problem yourself. At Two Men One Garage, we’re here to support you with high-quality aftermarket parts and expert advice to keep your seats in top shape. Got a question about diagnosing or fixing your power seat? Drop a comment below or reach out to us directly, and we’ll be happy to help!