Road to AAPEX: Episode 6

Road to AAPEX: Episode 6

The end of the road.

It all comes down to this. 

“I didn’t want something easy. I wanted something that was going tobe an ‘Are you going to make it?’ moment every time I get in the car.”

That’s how Babcox Media’s Joe Keene set the stage in the first episode of Road to AAPEX, well before he knew what was ahead of him. And oh boy did he deliver on those “Will he make it?” moments. 

The road to fixing up a 33-year-old Cadillac Brougham with more than 180,000 miles on the odometer to make the 2,500-mile drive from Akron, Ohio, to Las Vegas for AAPEX was long and unpredictable. It was also fun and exciting as Keene, an ASE-certified technician, was able to take in the sights of America’s automotive past on Route 66. 

As the journey rolled on, one thing became clear: If the Caddy was going to make it, if it was even possible, the automotive aftermarket would make it happen. The automotive supplier partnerships, the independent shops—the people that are the heartbeat of the aftermarket industry—were behind him every step of the way.

Now there’s just one question left to answer: Did Joe and the Caddy make it to Las Vegas for AAPEX? 

For the answer, watch the episode above.

You May Also Like

PC&D Executive Spotlight: Jeff Pavone

Jeff Pavone of Amplify Car Wash Advisors provides valuable perspectives on anticipated changes and shifts in the carwash industry and offers strategic advice on positioning companies for success.

Jeff Pavone of Amplify Car Wash Advisors provides valuable perspectives on anticipated changes and shifts in the carwash industry and offers strategic advice on positioning companies for success.

In this episode of PC&D’s Executive Spotlight, host Rich DiPaolo engages in a compelling conversation with Jeff Pavone, founding partner of Amplify Car Wash Advisors and owner of Commercial Plus. The discussion unfolds as DiPaolo delves into Pavone's background and his journey working with carwash operators.

Wash Talk Ep. 182: Phil Marquart from Dencar Technology

Phil discusses carwash technology, focusing on the efficiency and effectiveness of automated systems.

Phil Marquart from Dencar discusses the evolving landscape of carwash technology
Wash Talk Ep. 181: Kyle Martin of Oasis Car Wash Systems

Tune in to hear how Kyle Martin provides recommendations for those considering an in-bay tunnel system as well as offers insight on customized apps, lighting and membership models.

Wash Talk Ep. 180: Brian Mattingly of Welcomemat

Mattingly shares his vision of the future of carwashing including advancements in data collection and a focus on strong brand development.

Wash Talk Ep. 179: WhiteWater Express Car Wash reaches 100 locations

Rich DiPaolo and Clayton Clark discuss WhiteWater’s mission to be a top operator in the carwash market and how it has adapted to changing market conditions over the past two years.

Other Posts

Wash Talk Ep. 178: Stuart Hammerschmidt of Shore Corp.

In addition to discussing water reclamation systems, Stuart takes a deep dive into graphene, the super material of the future!

Shore Corporation
Wash Talk Ep. 177: Logan Lawson of Sensor Dynamix

Discover how Sensor Dynamix’s innovative sensors empower carwash owners and operators with real-time insights, enabling them to promptly address any issues that arise.

Wash Talk Ep. 176: Vets in carwashing with Brian Krusz

Host Rich DiPaolo and Brian Krusz of Sgt. Clean Car Wash discuss military veterans in the carwashing industry, as well as Krusz’s personal experience as a Marine, his commitment to hiring and mentoring veterans and much more.

ICYMI: A look back on the Road to AAPEX

Binge the full season. Watch how ASE-certified technician Joe Keene fixes up a rare Lincoln Blackwood and then hits the Lincoln Highway.