 Although this is their first private venture, both have a strong
background in all things mechanical. Farney was a farm manager for
Cross Farms for 22 years, and Haberland spent 30 years working for a
John Deere business before they decided to become business partners.
As Farney brings up the computer screen for the day's activities,
employees Jerry McCain and Shawn Awe move the array of Dixon mowers
out on the drive. The Dixon franchise, with riding mowers that brag
cutting decks from 30 inches to 72 inches, is just another way the
team looks to keep the business going.
Explaining that their business is service-oriented, Farney stated
that they also service all models of mowers and offer pickup
and delivery to customers in the area.
The oil change business is a constant for the store, but they
also offer other mechanical work for vehicle owners. Tire rotation,
transmission, radiator and fuel system flushes also are done at Four
Corners Lube, along with belt and hose replacement and air filters,
which are a commonly overlooked maintenance item by customers.
Serpentine belts and air filters are the items most frequently
overlooked by motorists, according to Haberland. A failed belt can
lead to a breakdown, and an air filter in poor condition can lead to
poor performance and reduced gas mileage.
An observer can sense that there is no high-pressure selling at
Four Corners. Free vehicle inspections at the time of an oil change
can point out other potential problems or recommendations for
maintenance work, but nothing is done without explaining the work
and the cost to the driver beforehand. "We tell them what we find,
but it's always up to them if they want us to do it," Farney said.
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The business also has expanded its base by building on a new, larger
service bay that allows them to service buses, RVs, grain trucks and
other vehicles that also require maintenance. "We have a lot of
farmer business here, and the bigger bay for servicing those larger
trucks has turned out to be a really good idea," Farney explained.
There are no appointments required and the entire staff takes
pride in getting a driver in and out as fast as possible, but
vehicle owners aren't treated like they have just pulled in for a
pit stop in a race.
Although the service is always fast and friendly, there is always
time for a client to share a few stories with Rick and Darren as
they wait for their vehicle to be done. Like the old-time shops
before numbers were hung on vehicle mirrors, the entire crew at Four
Corners brings a personable, direct approach to servicing that
reminds one of the golden age when gas stations used to offer
maintenance help. Now, businesses such as Four Corners Lube take
care of making sure your car or truck will stay faithful as it goes
down the road. Although Four Corners changes motorists' oil, the
business has kept as a constant its personal, honest service. That
will never change. Not at Four Corners Lube.
[By MIKE FAK]
Readers can find more of Mike Fak's writing at
www.searchwarp.com
and www.problogs.com.
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