Vital News Issue 21 Jan-Mar 2011

ISSUE 21

jan – mar 2011

Cambiare is

taking the lead on

IgnItIon igniTiOn LEaDS aRE aDDED TO ThE EXTEnSiVE VEhiCLE ELECTROniCS RangE

Inside this issue:

Filling the Vacuum Taking the pressure out of specifying vacuum pumps

plus…

Move up a Gear FPS now gives you a complete clutch offering

Switched on!

Fault diagnosis for rotating electrics

…and lots more!

FEaTuRE TiTLE

VITAL NEWS

Note from the MD Dear Customer Welcome to another edition of Vital news, and a Happy New Year to you all.

CONTENTS

2 nOTE FROm ThE mD

Neil Davis, Managing Director of FPS, welcomes you to this edition of Vital news

3 FPS nEWSDESK

What’s new in the aftermarket

4 Big Bang ThEORy

Laser beams in cars are no longer the stuff of science fiction!

6 highLy igniTaBLE

Everything you wanted to know about the spark plug, described by NGK

7 FOR yOuR inFORmaTiOn More vital product news

8 SWiTChED On!

Remy Automotive gives Vital news a crash course in rotating electrics

10 TaKing ThE LEaD On igniTiOn

Cambiare adds ignition leads to its extensive product ranges

11 FiLLing ThE VaCuum in ThE aFTERmaRKET

Specifying the importance of vacuum pumps with Pierburg

12 TO SERVE anD PROTECT

Reisse explains how to benefit from increasingly complex lubricants and filters

14 mOVE uP a gEaR

A complete clutch offering is now available from FPS

15 SLaVE DRiVER

In-depth analysis of hydraulic clutches with TRW

For FPS, 2010 was yet another year of investment and development. We launched a new e-trading module, the F:Drive; added over 30 new ranges to our Car Care & Accessories portfolio; introduced a new battery supplier to the UK aftermarket; and have continued to invest in our service and infrastructure so that we can keep delivering the components and accessories our customers need.

Your response to the F:Drive has been phenomenal with uptake of the new e-trading system increasing month-on-month. In line with our policy of continual improvement, the F:Drive has evolved since its launch in April 2010 – all thanks to your comments and suggestions. We will continue to roll out further developments and incentives to increase the use of the F:Drive throughout 2011: watch this space.

Another online success was the PartInfo website which houses all supplier technical bulletins. FPS is doing everything possible to make sure that essential technical information is fed down through the supply chain from manufacturer to installer, so PartInfo is a public site to which our Motor Factors can send their garage customers. You can visit it at http://www.partinfo.co.uk Our CCA programme, now entering its third year, is constantly gaining popularity with our customers.

I am proud to say we now offer a full basket of CCA products making FPS a true one-stop-shop for our customers.

The development of the Cambiare engine management range was also very pleasing, the quality of the product and the ranges available attracting considerable interest and demand.

For 2011, we have a continual process of investment planned; extra capacity, new programmes, improved branch ranges and profiles, and further investment in the web to name but a few.

With high fuel prices, VAT rises, public sector retraction and financial uncertainly across parts of the Eurozone, 2011 may offer mixed prospects for the economy. However, with an aging car parc and by maintaining our investment and our focus on working in partnership with our customers I am confident that together we will be able to continue business development across the year.

If there is anything we can do to improve our service please let us know.

Meanwhile, happy reading! neil Davis Managing Director ndavis@fpsdistribution.co.uk FPS

16 LighTing STRiKES

The potential impact of new EU Daylight Running Lamp legislation

17 WhaT a BELTER!

Securon reminds Vital news of the critical role of the often-overlooked seatbelt

18 FPS PRODuCT inDEX

An up-to-date listing of the extensive product lines supplied by FPS

20 COmPETiTiOn TimE

Win an amazing 3D TV with Vital news and LPR!

2 CONTENTS

CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE…

Proud to support

FPS NEWSDESk

VITAL NEWS

FPS nEWSDESK What’s new from the market ValEo WIndoW REgulatoRS Window regulators represent an excellent opportunity for both the crash and mechanical markets with 70% of the European car parc fitted with power windows. FPS supplier Valeo covers almost 90% of that market across the 4 technologies currently available.

Following recent market research, FPS has repositioned customer terms, making the Valeo range far more competitive on price, which when combined with the service, range and availability FPS offers, brings greater benefits for the motor factor.

BogE SERVICE KItS

Service kit sales, in theory, should have similar sales to shock absorbers, as the dust cover and rubber bump stops should be changed at the same time as the shocks. yet analysis shows a disparity between the two, and subsequent analysis with Boge has led to a significant cost-reduction for FPS customers on Boge service kits.

The Boge range of service kits includes 182 parts covering all major marques in the uK car parc.

COmPETITION WINNER

≥

BluE PRInt BRaKE PadS Brake pads are one of the most congested product groups, and with many reputable suppliers competing for the same market share – price has a great influence with customers.

The Blue Print range has been reviewed, and while the vast majority of parts have proven to be competitive where they are, a short range of 40 parts has been reduced as of 1st December.

Competition winner Lee Horner accepting his prize from FPS’ David Groundwell and Remy’s Maureen Cole

Congratulations to Lee horner of Economy Spares in Leeds, winner of an apple iPad courtesy of Remy and Vital News issue 19.

Run by Jeremy horner, Economy Spares is a family business with a 50 year history.

Sales assistant Lee was a very gracious winner, commenting, ‘it was a nice surprise to win something that i can use and it proved to my colleagues that it is worth entering these competitions.’ it certainly is worth entering, so don’t miss the chance to win an amazing 3D TV with LPR in this issue’s competition.

KIlEn CoIl SPRIngS Sixty five top-selling Kilen coil springs have been reduced by a considerable 15% - including: 55 key numbers from the top 100-selling parts, and 30 of the 40 most popular parts. Combined with the market-leading quality, range, availability and service that the Kilen range offers through FPS, this is an extremely attractive proposition.

January will also see the new 2011 Coil spring catalogue released, with over 400 additional new parts, promising a strong start to the New Year.

FPS NEWSDESk 3

NEW TECHNOLOgy

VITAL NEWS

BIG BANG T CaRS WiTh LaSER BEamS anD WE aRE nOT TaLKing aBOuT JamES BOnD’S nEW CaR, iT iS ThE nEXT gEnERaTiOn OF auTOmOTiVE igniTiOn

For almost 100 years the spark plug has been at the heart of the petrol ignition system and innovation has revolved around enhancing existing technology. This could change as vehicle manufacturers vie to develop more sophisticated ignition systems which provide better fuel economy and cleaner emissions. ≥

CaRS WiTh LaSER BEamS For the last 2 years Ford Motor Company and the University of Liverpool have been working on a project, which if successful will put laser ignition at the heart of the next generation of Ford direct injection engines. Replacing spark plugs with lasers enables greater control over the combustion process because laser ignition (LI) ignites the air-fuel mixture anywhere in the combustion chamber.

Laser ignition technology is under development at the University of Liverpool

more efficient. As combustion is more stable in the LI system, less fuel is required for each combustion event giving better fuel economy and cleaner emissions.

Comparatively, spark ignition (SI) is much more limited as it can only ignite a small volume of the air-fuel mix immediately next to the spark plug.

Combustion then expands through chemical reaction to the rest of the cylinder. If the airfuel mix is not in the right position, relative to the spark plug, fuel ignition does not occur at its optimum effectiveness, resulting in poor performance and high emissions.

hOW DOES iT WORK..?

• Fuel is injected into the combustion chamber through injectors mounted on the cylinder head

• By the end of the intake stroke air and fuel are homogenously mixed (or thoroughly mixed if you prefer plain English)

≥

4 NEW TECHNOLOgy

ThE BEST OF BOTh WORLDS The main rival to Ford’s LI system, and likely to hit the road much sooner, is Vauxhall’s Homogenous Charge Compression Ignition (HCCI) system. Run on petrol, the HCCI engine heats the air-fuel mixture to the point of autoignition producing efficiency of a diesel engine with the performance and low emissions of a petrol car.

• Air is drawn into the combustion chamber through a separate valve

No longer just the preserve of science fiction movies, lasers could be appearing in mainstream car engines in the next few years

≥

In the LI engine, a laser beam is fired into the combustion chamber at the moment of fuel injection. The heat from the laser is sufficient to ignite the air-fuel mixture, and the beam can be split into multiple streams so multiple ignition points can co-occur, making the ignition process

The LI project aims to help achieve reductions of 50% or more in hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrous oxide emissions. Researchers behind the project claim that the reason for this is that LI gives a better cold-starting performance and a ignition from a leaner fuel mix than SI. In Ford’s system, the laser can be reflected back to give the ECU information on what is happening in the combustion chamber – this will help to control air and fuel input in order to optimise performance.

The spark ignition process

• As the piston rises for the compression stroke, the volume of air is decreased through compression

NEW TECHNOLOgy

VITAL NEWS

HEORIES In Focus: Ignition Innovation laser Ignition

HCCI

> Petrol ignition without spark plugs

> Stands for: homogenous Charge Compression ignition

> Still under development but could be on the road by 2030 > Research into Li lead by the Ford motor Company

• Compression causes the temperature to rise to the point of combustion • Combustion occurs evenly through the combustion chamber HCCI has a high proportion of air to fuel (a lean mixture), so less fuel is need. Vauxhall claim the prototype Insignia HCCI returns a 15% increase in fuel economy compared to the SI version. Particulate matter and NOx emissions compared to traditional diesel are also significantly reduced (figures not yet available). HCCI has the efficiency of diesel without the expensive exhaust system with the attendant components such as particulate filters and urea injection systems.

HCCI combines traditional spark ignition and the compression ignition process

≥

Heat is a necessary enabler for the HCCI ignition system. Consequently a spark plug is needed to initiate combustion when starting from cold. Vauxhall’s HCCI incorporates SI for cold starting and acceleration and the engine switches seamlessly between the two.

> Works only with gasoline direct injection engines > Fuel efficiencies greater than 45% compared to spark ignition > unlike Si, fuel can be ignited anywhere in the chamber > Optical fibers deliver the laser beam which take up less space than spark plugs > Better cold starting performance gives great potential for bio fuel engines > Laser can be reflected to feed information back to the ECu

HCCI is not a new idea but development for automotive applications has been stalled by the difficulty of controlling the combustion.

Heat and pressure are necessary enablers for the HCCI process and as they are subject to constant and instantaneous change, they are very difficult to predict and control. Air temperature, atmospheric pressure, engine load and road speed also affect the HCCI combustion in a way that does not exist with either SI or LI. Individual cylinder pressure sensors, variable hydraulic valve lift and electro-mechanical phasers for camshaft timing are all essential components if the HCCI system is going to work and they must work together seamlessly and ceaselessly. Such technologies which were not available in the early days of HCCI development.

Furthermore, the high pressure that is created in the engine means the materials used for

> Works with gasoline direct injection engines > Vauxhall Vectra with hCCi is scheduled for release in 2012 > 1st generation hCCi engines will incorporate spark plugs > 15% increase in fuel economy compared to standard Si > Diesel efficiency without the need for Cats, DPFs, urea injection, selective catalytic reduction > Requires individual pressure sensors on each cylinder > multiple fuel injections during each intake stroke

bearings, piston crowns, head gaskets and even engine blocks have to be able to cope with higher pressure or the operating conditions of the HCCI engine will be severely limited.

While Vauxhall seem to have overcome these obstacles, the challenge of making it affordable to the general public remains an obstacle.

While exciting, it is not yet clear when either of these innovative new technologies will become full production realities. Ford’s LI project has only just exited phase one and has not yet been tested in a road-ready prototype. Vauxhall had scheduled the release of the HCCI version of the Insignia for 2012.

In the meantime the spark plug remains the beating heart of the petrol engine’s ignition system. Learn more about the latest innovations in spark plug technology on page 6 courtesy of market leaders NGK.

NEW TECHNOLOgy 5

SPARk PLugS

VITAL NEWS

Highly Ignitable ThEy haVE SuCCESSFuL PaRTnERShiPS WiTh aLL OF ThE WORLD’S LEaDing VEhiCLE manuFaCTuRERS, SO ViTaL nEWS COuLDn’T ThinK OF anyOnE mORE QuaLiFiED TO TaLK aBOuT SPaRK PLugS Than ThE EXPERTS aT ngK When it comes to engine performance, spark plugs are a key component. high quality spark plugs will reduce emissions, and improve engine power and fuel economy.

A fast growing product area that motor factors need to be aware of is iridium technology.

NGK’s Iridium IX range of spark plugs was initially aimed at the two wheel market as an upgrade spark plug that could make a noticeable difference to performance. The technology employed in Iridium IX is now used by an increasing number of original equipment manufacturers.

Why uSE iRiDium?

The properties of iridium (it’s incredibly tough and resistant to extremely high temperatures) are combined with a fine wire centre electrode and a specially designed ground electrode.

This provides excellent ignition qualities, more complete burning of the air-fuel mixture, and often a longer service life than a standard spark plug.

A spark plug using standard nickel alloy electrodes typically has a centre electrode diameter of between 2.5mm - 2.9mm, offering good service life, and for many older technology engines good ignition properties. At only 0.6mm, the diameter of the Iridium IX electrode is considerably smaller, providing enhanced combustion performance without compromising on durability. Small diameter electrodes offer several advantages over other types of spark plug: • A stronger spark from your existing ignition system • Significant reduction in quench* • Excellent gas flow around the spark position * Quench: phenomenon whereby slower flame spread is the result of the heat initiated by the spark being partially reabsorbed into the electrode.

6 SPARk PLugS

The special taper cut ground electrode of the Iridium IX allows the flame kernel to grow and spread throughout the combustion chamber in a more efficient manner. The ‘sharp’ electrode discharge surfaces also mean that the voltage required to create the spark is reduced (taking load off the coil) and the spark position is much more consistent.

CaRBOn DEPOSiTS Innovation does not stop at the electrodes.

NGK Iridium IX spark plugs are designed to resist carbon deposits forming on the plug - carbon deposits can parasitically starve the spark between the electrodes and results in a weak spark. At the point where the insulator nose meets the centre electrode mass there is an annular groove. This groove provides an air gap across which any discharge that occurs as the current tries to leak to earth, burns away carbon deposits and restores full power to the normal spark position.

RESEaRCh & DEVELOPmEnT NGK is the number one supplier of spark plugs to VMs worldwide and the biggest global manufacturer of spark plugs for both OE and aftermarket applications. This is achieved through heavy investment in research and development. In fact, NGK invests a massive 8% of total company turnover back into R&D. This ensures development of the most advanced spark plugs to meet the increasingly specific demands of OE customers. high PERFORmanCE The development of Iridium technology for the OEM has led directly to this range of high performance plugs. Even though the IX range is offered as an upgrade to standard types, some manufacturers even specify them as the service part in their two-wheeled race orientated

applications, and of course, the quality of the IX Iridium is exactly the same as all of NGK’s products – beyond reproach.

In the world of highly tuned race engines the performance capability of every component is under scrutiny and it will be of no surprise to find that nearly all NGK’s racing plugs employ Iridium electrode technology; it also forms a critical part of the technology used in the range of LPG/ CNG** spark plugs for use in the demanding environment of gas powered engines.

The full range of NGK Iridium IX spark plugs is available from FPS. ** LPg: Liquified Petroleum gas; Cng: Compressed natural gas

FOR yOuR INFORMATION

IN-CAR TECHNOLOgy

VITAL NEWS

CAR MAINTENANCE

ACCESSORIES & STyLINg

TRAvEL & LEISuRE

vALETINg

CaR CaRE & aCCESSoRIES nEW RangES The expansion of the Car Care accessories portfolios continues and FPS are pleased to welcome the following as additions to our range: • Homecare – De-ionised Water • Summit – Plastic backed OE-style replacement mirror glass • Chill Factor – Anti-freeze, Screen wash & De-icer • Pama – Mobile Phone Accessories • Half Moon Bay – Haynes and Top gear Branded giftware • Michelin – New Snow Chain range • Classic – Car Mats

Pama joInS CaR CaRE & aCCESSoRIES PRogRammE

Please note: iPod and sat nav not included

FPS is pleased to announce that the Pama range of mobile phone holders, chargers and hands-free solutions has been added to the Car Care and accessories programme.

A floor stand display unit is available to order as part of a stock package, providing an ideal opportunity to enter into this profitable market with an immediately impressive presence.

PaRtInfo.Co.uK Partinfo.co.uk simplifies the process to access ‘Supplier Technical Bulletins’ in an easy-to-use format and is available to industry and public users alike.

Simply go to www.partinfo. co.uk or click on ‘Part Info’ within the F:Drive and search for information on your chosen part in one of three ways – • By part number • By Technical Bulletin name • By supplier By clicking on the appropriate link from the menu, you will be presented with a pop-up screen containing the relevant Technical Bulletin. Each bulletin also contains a unique web URL allowing you to pass the link onto your customer to download and print. A simple, yet effective and user-friendly web site.

Blue Print Blue Print has released the 1.3JTD/CDTi Timing Chain Kit for alfa/FiaT/Ford/Suzuki/Vauxhall applications. aDK873500 is a 10 piece kit, which includes the bolts required for the Timing Tensioner. also, to enable repairers to complete the job, Blue Print has released aDK85501, the Engine Locking and Timing Tool, which is one tool that fits all the applications above.

So, for the complete solution, order the Chain Kit and Tool today from FPS.

FOR yOuR INFORMATION 7

ROTATINg ELECTRICS

VITAL NEWS

Switched on!

ROTaTing ELECTRiCaL COmPOnEnTS COmE unDER inCREaSED PRESSuRE DuRing ThE WinTER mOnThS anD FauLTS ThaT WEnT unDETECTED OVER ThE SummER COmE TO ThE FORE. REmy auTOmOTiVE giVES ViTaL nEWS a CRaSh COuRSE in ROTaTing ELECTRiCS

≥ BMW 1 Series: concerns over starter and ring gear life

The starter motor converts energy stored by the vehicle battery into mechanical energy to allow it to crank the vehicle’s engine. Modern starter motors are either: permanent-magnet, or seriesparallel wound direct current with a solenoid mounted on it. When current from the starting battery is applied to the solenoid –usually through a key-operated switch – the solenoid plunger pulls out the drive pinion on the starter

8 ROTATINg ELECTRICS

hOW haVE ThESE COmPOnEnTS DEVELOPED OVER ThE yEaRS? Alternator technology has changed considerably over the past 10 years. Higher under-hood temperatures due to space constraints, higher electrical demands, and engine fuel saving have all had an impact on alternator design. To overcome some of these problems the alternator design has changed with the introduction of dual internal fans, lighter construction with brackets having larger apertures allowing better airflow for improved cooling and, due to weight saving, improved fuel consumption.

Many alternator voltage regulators are now linked to the vehicle’s onboard computer (ECU) system. Air temperature and engine load are used by the ECU to calculate battery charging voltage supplied by the alternator. hOW DO REmanuFaCTuRED uniTS mEaSuRE uP? Quality remanufactured units, such as those produced by Remy, are remanufactured in ISO certified facilities and tested to OE

specification. Outlined below are the stages that remanufactured Remy units go through:

Old core

• Complete unit disassembly into base components • Professionally clean all components • Remanufacture • Inject OE equivalent components • Assemble and test to OE specification

≥

The alternator uses the mechanical energy from the engine via a drive belt and converts it into electrical energy to power the vehicle’s accessories as well as charging the battery. The alternator generates an alternating current (AC) which is rectified internally to produce a direct current (DC) output. This makes it compatible with the vehicle’s electrical system. A regulating device (Regulator) controls the voltage being generated at a nominal 14 volts.

driveshaft which meshes/engages the pinion with the ring gear on the flywheel of the engine.

Current flowing through the field coils or permanent magnets and armature creates opposing magnetic fields between the pole shoes and armature windings that cause the armature to rotate. When the armature rotates at a high enough speed for ignition to occur, the engine starts.

≥

Within the automotive industry, the term rotating electrics (RE) is used when discussing a rotating electrical component such as an alternator or starter motor.

Remanufactured unit

WhaT aRE ThE TREnDS anD maRKET DEVELOPmEnTS aT OE LEVEL? The ongoing development of hybrid technology is very interesting. Everyone is now familiar with the stop-start technology employed by micro hybrids, and it is estimated that 25% of the total cars sold in 2015 will have this technology. There are 2 major categories established in micro hybrids – Belt-Driven Alternator Starter (BAS) and Starter Based Start Stop (SBSS) which

ROTATINg ELECTRICS

VITAL NEWS

Rotating Electrics: What you need to know > altERnatoR: converts the engine’s mechanical energy into electrical energy to power the accessories and recharge the battery.

Common Fault #1: Warning light remains on when the engine is running.

> StaRtER motoR: cranks the engine by converting energy stored in the battery into mechanical energy.

Common Diagnosis: Faulty alternator. actual diagnosis could be: Accessory drive belt is broken or slipping; electrical connection to the alternator is broken, loose or corroded.

> as an OE manufacturer Remy has the inside track on the latest hybrid developments: – intelligent alternator Control (iaC) – Battery management System (BmS) – improved Performance Starter (iPS)

To correctly diagnose the root of the problem: • Check alternator output if this is okay you should: • Check electrical connections to the alternator are not broken, loose or corroded • Check condition of the accessory drive belt to ensure it is not broken, worn to excess or slipping

> Reports indicate that the battery life of the starter motor of the BmW 1 Series with stop-start is just 1-1.5 years.

Starter and ring gear life is more of a concern. > Remy’s remanufactured units are tested to OE specification.

Remy: What you need to know > 25% of warranty returns do not actually have any faults when investigated.

Common Fault #2: The starter motor clicks when the ignition key is turned to start but the engine does not crank.

> REmy’S RotatIng ElECtRICS RangE... ... now exceeds 3,500 part numbers .... covers over 30,000 uK applications

use intelligent alternator control (IAC), battery management system (BMS) and improved performance starter (IPS).

The IAC optimises the alternator charging cycle by running it mainly while the vehicle brakes.

This results in brake energy recuperation, boosting the engine by generating driving power when accelerating the vehicle.

BMS maintains battery charge conditions and disables the stop-start system when the battery is under a certain level of charge.

It is a common misconception that when the vehicle charging/starting circuit fails it is due to a failure of the alternator or starter motor, but in most cases the failure is external of the alternator/starter.

Common Diagnosis: Faulty starter motor.

IPS has more/longer brushes, a new bearing system, improved solenoid contacts and an improved engagement mechanism, however the overall design remains the same. The OEMs specify 6 times higher durability from hybrid starters and alternators than conventional ones.

Most of the system elements are identical or just slightly different from current products, so the opportunity is there for the aftermarket.

Battery life is already a concern on the BMW 1 Series with reports indicating 1-1.5 year’s battery life with stop-start systems but starter and ring gear life is a bigger concern.

The latest Remy introductions include alternators for the Ford Mondeo 2.0 07>, Ford Focus II and C-Max, Mini One, and starter motors for the Audi A4 1.9 TDi from 08>, Mini One and Renault Laguna

DOES REmy OFFER FaCTOR anD gaRagE CuSTOmERS hELP WiTh FauLT DiagnOSiS? Rotating Electrics problems are becoming the most regularly misdiagnosed failures.

In fact one in four of Remy’s warranty returns do not actually have any faults when investigated.

actual Diagnosis could be: A bad battery or a bad connection to the battery; the main cable connection to the starter motor is loose, broken or corroded; there is poor ground connection.

To correctly diagnose the root of the problem: • Check condition of battery and connectors • Check the main cable to the starter motor • Check the vehicle ground connection In either case, if the starter or alternator is replaced without completing the checks, it is extremely likely that the replacement unit will show the same symptoms as the original.

In the case of alternator or starter failure, it will normally be due to a worn component such as bearings, brushes or bushes. All of these components are replaced 100% during the Remy remanufacturing process.

WhaT iS ThE LaTEST nEWS On REmy’S PRODuCT RangE? Remy has recently released 270 starters and alternators for popular vehicle applications, increasing the total number of part numbers in the Remy range to more than 3,500. These parts cover more than 30,000 applications.

ROTATINg ELECTRICS 9

≥

ENgINE MANAgEMENT

VITAL NEWS

taking the lead

on Ignition ThE CamBiaRE VEhiCLE ELECTROniCS PROgRammE iS gROWing FaST. ViTaL nEWS SPEaKS TO ThE ELECTROniCS EXPERTS aBOuT ThE LaTEST aDDiTiOn TO ThE RangE: igniTiOn LEaDS many people believe that ignition leads are “a thing of the past,” yet the uK aftermarket for ignition leads is valued at £10m at trade level. Consequently there are plenty of sales opportunities open to factors.

Approximately 16 million vehicles (of 15 years or younger) on the UK roads rely on ignition leads.

This population is actively growing thanks to the new generation of small engined vehicles – such as Fiat’s 500, Panda and Punto models; Ford’s Fiesta and Ka brands and the Smart Car. REPLaCEmEnT maRKET Ignition leads operate in a hostile environment, where they are subject to attack from extreme heat and chemicals. Oil, coolant and fuel vapour cause connector contacts to oxidize and corrode and the plasticizers to escape from the plastics used in the casing. The result is a brittle lead.

Damage to the lead insulation causes the ignition voltage to flow to ground, resulting in misfiring, rough engine running and unburned fuel in the catalytic converter.

Consequently, ignition leads should be inspected regularly and replaced at the first sign of ageing.

not only interfere with radio reception but can also affect any number of electronic sensors, resulting in poor performance or even vehicle breakdown.

ThE TEChnOLOgy Three technologies are used for ignition leads by original equipment manufacturers. The main difference is the materials used for the conductor and the type of resistor employed for interference suppression. The three technologies are: • Copper core • Wire wound core (reactive) • Resistive core A plastic casing protects the core and provides electrical insulation. These plastics range from a simple PVC, through EPDM* to Silicone rubber. Silicone is recognised as the best solution because it is slow to crack or become brittle – even at temperatures up to 220°C. It therefore complies with the high temperature resistance requirements of ISO 3808.

CAMBIARE ignition leads use double silicone cables because it provides superior resistance to temperature, Ignition leads set water, oil degradation and chemical attack. It also provides excellent radio suppression. All Using OE quality replacement ignition lead sets, terminals are machine crimped to ensure strong like those in the CAMBIARE range, is vital on and reliable connections and all spark plug modern motor vehicles. Poorly suppressed leads

boots and terminal covers are moulded from silicone to ensure OE quality and a water tight seal.

Further information about CAMBIARE products can be found online at www.cambiare-ve.com, or speak to the experts on the free Technical Helpline: 0845 543 8280.

IgnItIon LeadS: WHat you nEEd to KnoW:

• Circa 16m vehicles on the uK roads are fitted with ignition leads.

• uK aftermarket for ignition leads is valued at £10m at trade level.

• most European applications require a cable diameter of 7mm or 8mm.

Japanese and Korean applications require 5mm.

CamBIaRE: KEy faCtS • Comprehensive range uses same core technologies as O.E. equipment.

• Double silicone housing provides the best protection.

• Extensively tested to meet or exceed the vehicle manufacturer’s OE specifications.

• manufactured using the latest materials and methods required to conform to international specifications: iSO 3808/1, 3808/2 and 6856, and European Legislation CEE/72-245.

• available to the uK aftermarket exclusively through FPS.

≥

* Ethylene Propylene Diene monomer (EPDm) – a type of rubber

Choose Cambiare Vehicle Electronics for OE quality: • Ignition Leads • Ignition Coils

10 ENgINE MANAgEMENT

• Air Mass Sensors • EGR Valves

• Switches & Sensors

ENgINE MANAgEMENT

VITAL NEWS

Filling the vacuum in the aftermarket VaCuum PumPS aRE nO LOngER DEaLER OnLy PaRTS SO ViTaL nEWS SPOKE TO PiERBuRg’S aFTERmaRKET DiViSiOn, mS mOTOR SERViCE, TO FinD OuT WhaT ThE aFTERmaRKET nEEDS TO KnOW

The most important part of the vacuum pump’s role is to operate the brake booster, which increases the force applied to the brake master cylinder to reduce the amount of pedal pressure required for braking. The brake booster can increase the applied force by up to 5 times and without it the brake pedal would feel very hard and the brakes would seem ineffective. This is why the vacuum pump is a critical safety component.

Although vacuum pumps can come in many varied designs such as diaphragm, piston, vane and pivoting vane, the principle is always

supply is functioning correctly when fitting a new pump.

Pierburg vacuum pump

≥

Vacuum pumps have been found in diesel vehicles since the end of the 60s and are now becoming increasingly common in petrol engines. The vacuum pump creates negative pressure which is used as an auxiliary power supply for parts such as the turbocharger, valves, secondary air valves, EgR valves and exhaust gas flaps. Loss of power, which would usually be attributed to the turbocharger, can actually be caused by a defective vacuum pump.

the same. The pump works through positive displacement to move air from the vacuum system and then through the crankcase ventilation and into the air intake system. The pump will normally create a negative pressure of between 750 and 850 mbar or 10 to 12 psi.

Most failures of vacuum pumps relate to poor oil supply or incorrect installation. Modern high performance pumps require an oil supply flow rate of 30-60 litres per hour which is normally taken from the engine’s oil circuit. However, if the lubricating oil supply is insufficient or faulty then the pump will suffer malfunctions and damage in a relatively short time. A jammed pump can also cause damage elsewhere in the engine, especially if it is driven by the engine directly. This is why it is essential to check the oil

As a pump starts to fail the loss of the negative pressure can be seen in several ways. As the brake booster is a safety critical part it will often be the last part to fail. Failure of other vacuum controlled products is most likely to be the first sign of a vacuum pump failure. This can lead to the OBD* system registering a fault in the emission control system and illuminating the malfunction indicator lamp. The vacuum pump and related parts, such as hoses, reservoir and seals should be checked in these instances.

Increasing demand for diesel and direct injection petrol cars means the market will demand a higher number of vacuum pumps. With a 40 year history in the development and manufacturing of vacuum pumps, Pierburg has become the leading European manufacturer of these safety critical components, making them the best option for motor factors. Of course, after sales service is also important and has a long tradition at Pierburg who published their first technical information as early as 1969. This continues to the present day and “Service Information” is now available on www.ms-motor-service.com * OBD – On-board diagnostics

Choose Pierburg for OE engine management components • EGR Valves • Air Mass Sensor • Throttle Bodies • Diesel Pre-Flaps • Intake Manifold • Fuel Pumps • Vacuum Pump • Solenoid Valves • Secondary Air Pumps

ENgINE MANAgEMENT 11

FILTERS AND LuBRICATION

VITAL NEWS

To Serve & Pro gaRagES aRE nOW mORE inFLuEnTiaL Than EVER in ThE PuRChaSE OF SimPLE COmPOnEnTS LiKE FiLTERS anD LuBRiCanTS, OFFERing PRimE OPPORTuniTiES TO mOTOR FaCTORS. FiLTRaTiOn EXPERT REiSSE EXPLainS mORE Engine lubricants and filters are no longer simple commodities; they are ‘designer products’ specifically tailored to each engine. Vehicle manufacturers are increasingly recommending specific oils to meet today’s performance and protection challenges, this requires the selection of the most appropriate oils and filters.

JOuRnEy ThROugh ThE OiL WayS The lubrication provided by engine oil is essential in maintaining a healthy system, good performance and longevity of engine components. Oil not only lubricates moving parts to reduce friction, it also: • Cools components as it is pumped around the system • Seals the wall of the combustion chamber and piston rings • Cleans the engine by picking up particles of dirt and depositing them in the oil filter ThE OiL PaRaDOX As the oil travels through the engine it becomes hotter through contact with the moving engine

parts. As the temperature increases it starts to thin, or to use the technical term it loses its viscosity. While low viscosity means better fuel economy, go too thin and you lose the protective quality of the oil and wear becomes a problem. monograde or multigrade Oil • Monograde oil has a viscosity defined at one temperature, either high or low.

• Multigrade oil will provide effective protection at both high and low temperatures.

• Multigrade oils are the popular yearround choice for UK drivers who experience hot summers and freezing winters.

• Multigrades are easily recognised by the dual viscosity rating: i.e. 0W-40.

• Viscosity modifiers control the thickness of the oil throughout the range of temperatures.

As oil passes through the fine membrane inside the filter, unwanted contaminants are extracted.

Without the oil filter, particles would build up in the oil, causing abrasive wear of the bearings

and reducing the potential working life of the engine.

WhaT aRE FiLTERS maDE OF? Original equipment manufacturers use various materials for the filter medium, ranging from cellulose-based (basically paper) to synthetic fibres. The most common filter medium is a cellulose-synthetic blend. As a natural fibre, cellulose has an irregular fibre pattern which enables it to filter particles of varying sizes.

Synthetic fibre on the other hand, can be produced with very small, uniform pores which trap tiny dirt particles missed by the cellulose.

Combining cellulose and synthetic fibres in this way increases the filter’s capacity and lifespan, giving higher levels of protection to the engine.

FROm SPin-On TO ECO FiLTERS Over the last couple of decades the traditional spin-on filter has become the most common type of oil filter however a combination of increased engine pressures and environmental considerations has lead to the cartridge style Eco filter becoming ever more popular amongst today’s vehicle manufacturers.

In a spin-on filter the base gasket is the only connection the filter has to the engine. With oil pressures ranging from 5 psi to as much as 100 psi, depending on engine type and design, a failure of this component could cause the engine to run out of oil in minutes and lead to a catastrophic engine failure.

Manufacturers feel it is now safer to house the filter within the engine block and allow just the filter medium to be changed when being serviced. This reduces the need to replace metal casings each time a filter is changed, thus reducing the

FILTERS AND LuBRICATION

VITAL NEWS

otect amount of materials used and waste produced with an overall benefit to the environment.

in a nuTShELL…

Engine oil – is a fast moving service item and an oil change is part of a car’s normal service • Multigrade oil provides year-round protection and is the best choice for UK drivers • Multigrade oils are easily recognised by the dual viscosity rating: i.e. 10W-30

replaced whenever the fuel pump is replaced.

These filters are even more critical on diesel applications because dirt or other small particles can ruin the diesel injector system.

Oil Filter – is a vital part of the lubrication process and should be replaced with each oil change

All Reisse filters are fitted with OE-quality filtration media to ensure a continuous supply of clean oil around the engine. With recent developments in modern engines, filter media are being designed specifically for engines that use synthetic oils.

It is now essential that factors and garages are aware of the engine-specific filter requirements and their required service intervals. This will ensure that potential opportunities for oil filters sales are maximised.

FPS recognises how rapidly the oil and filter markets are developing and offers full oil and filter programmes from a wide choice of brands including: Reisse, Fram, Castrol, Comma, Mobil, Blue Print and Granville.

Any part of the car that takes in fluids or air must have a way of separating the good from the bad, of taking in only what benefits the mechanism and leaving the rest behind.

Before they sign off, Reisse give us a quick overview of the remaining filters which are essential to automotive health.

Fuel filter

≥

≥

QuaLiTy COunTS The quality of the oil filter should not be compromised, and as a rule, oil filters should be replaced whenever the engine’s oil is changed.

FuEL FiLTERS Fuel filters protect the fuel system and prevent contaminants from clogging carburettors or fuel injectors. Fuel filters need regular maintenance to avoid a drop in engine performance and should always be

≥

FPS offers a full oil programme including top brands such as Castrol

• Failure of the oil filter can starve the engine of oil • Filter media are made from blends of natural and synthetic fibres to trap microscopic particles • Eco filters are becoming increasingly popular with vehicle manufacturers • Filters unwanted contaminants to prevent abrasive wear of the bearings

Air filter

aiR FiLTERS A vital element of the MOT service, failing to replace the air filter can allow debris to damage the air mass sensor, causing costly repairs. Air filters prevent abrasive dust and dirt particles from entering the engine and causing wear and oil contamination.

CaBin FiLTERS Over 90% of new vehicles are equipped with cabin filters, and they are a standard service item creating a strong sales and profit opportunity.

Cabin filters prevent contaminants including dust particles, pollen, water droplets and gaseous pollutants getting into the passenger compartment. A quality filter is therefore important to protect passengers’ health and well being.

Reisse cabin filters include carbon and polymer types; carbon filters remove odour, as well as the same particles as a regular polymer particulate filter.

SERViCE ESSEnTiaLS Filters are an essential part of any car’s service schedule. The Reisse programme represents a great growth and sales opportunity, offering extensive coverage, with a quality product.

FILTERS AND LuBRICATION 13

CLuTCH

VITAL NEWS

mOVE UP A GEAR… …With a complete clutch offering from fPS

ViTaL nEWS TaKES a LOOK aT ThE CLuTCh maRKET, anD hOW FPS Can nOW PROViDE a COmPLETE CLuTCh OFFERing WhiCh FuLFiLLS CuSTOmER REQuiREmEnTS The clutch market is one of the most valuable sectors of a motor factor’s portfolio, with clutch, including Dual mass Flywheels (DmFs) and Concentric Slave Cylinders (CSCs), normally accounting for around 12-15% of a factor’s turnover. The barriers to stocking a full range of clutch are clear to all factors, namely inventory cost and space.

This is where FPS has identified the need to stock the most complete clutch programme possible, and to assist the motor factor in completing their sale.

OE QuaLiTy FPS’ primary clutch supplier is LuK, whose OE pedigree is well known. OE clutches are designed and manufactured to match the specifications of an individual engine or vehicle while a non-OE part will often fit a selection of vehicles but will not offer the exact amount of damping; instead it will cover a range of damping requirements.

ThE POWER OF ThREE While LuK’s range covers 95% of the car parc, they do not have every OE contract, so inevitably there will be gaps in the range. In order to offer a Tier 1 alternative, FPS approached Sachs and Valeo to fill the gaps. Unique car, LCV and 4WD parts have been introduced into stock, and all parts catalogued on Autocat to produce a single FPS catalogue. This enables FPS to provide a full OE clutch programme which combines the three major brands.

The development of clutches with specific applications can mean a minimum of 150-200 clutch references, 20 DMFs and 30 CSCs are needed to provide a strong base cover of applications. This represents a substantial amount of cash tied up in stock. As applications shift in popularity, some references will also become obsolete, increasing the risk of stockholding.

≥

14 CLuTCH

NAP offers a complete range of non-OE clutches, supplemented by a range of single mass flywheel kits (SMFs are designed as an alternative to DMFs), while Blue Print focuses mainly on Japanese, Korean and American applications to provide FPS with even greater coverage.

Non-OE concentric slave cylinders follow a similar pattern, with ranges from NAP, LPR and Blue Print all coming together to ensure the customer not only has the application covered, but also has the options to offer their customers a choice.

≥

If you take a look in any manufacturer’s catalogue, you will see that 150-200 clutches only represent around 80-85% of the volume of a full range, with the remainder accounting for as many as 1,400 additional part numbers. This means that there will always be a requirement for factors to source distress parts.

TiER 2 While non-OE parts are not necessarily vehicle specific they do allow factors to cover a wider range of applications using less stocked items.

This is a stocking decision many factors take.

FPS fills gaps in the LuK clutch range with parts from Sachs and Valeo; NAP and Blue Print make-up the Tier 2 clutch offering

The same applies to dual mass flywheels, and concentric slave cylinders which are also catalogued on Autocat.

FPS carries an extensive range of CSCs

The FPS clutch programme provides various benefits to the motor factor: • Factors can keep lean stocks knowing FPS will act as an additional warehouse • FPS offers a choice of Tier 1 and Tier 2 brand options • All parts are available on a same-day basis • Unique parts are available from alternative OE manufacturers and highly regarded sources • Car, LCV & 4WD applications covered • The entire programme can be viewed as a single catalogue on Autocat

CONCENTRIC SLAvE CyLINDERS

VITAL NEWS

Slave driver ViTaL nEWS TaKES an in-DEPTh LOOK aT ThE hyDRauLiC CLuTCh SySTEm WiTh ThE hELP OF ThE TRWEXPERTS aT TRW

Today’s car buyers make high demands in terms of the comfort of their vehicles.

They demand modern engines with low fuel consumption and perfect smoothness. a multitude of additional equipment makes the engine compartment increasingly compact and the installation of conventional clutch trains and clutch forks increasingly difficult. That’s why more than 50% of all newly delivered cars are today fitted with a hydraulic clutch system and concentric slave cylinder (CSC).

WhaT iS a CSC? Depressing the clutch pedal in the hydraulic clutch system pushes a plunger into the bore of the master cylinder forcing fluid into the slave cylinder. The fluid causes the piston of the slave cylinder to move its pushrod against the release fork and bearing, thus disengaging the clutch. The concentric slave cylinder combines the function of the clutch operating cylinder, the clutch release bearing, the sliding sleeve and the clutch fork all in one compact case.

Consequently the pivot pin and clutch cable, which are susceptible to wear and corrosion, are not needed.

The function unit is integrated centrally in the clutch casing, with the slave cylinder surrounding the gearbox input shaft and moving the clutch diaphragm spring directly and without deflection. The system works free of play and with automatic adjustment. The function

remains constant over the entire service life of the clutch disc. Any wear-induced displacement of the separation point can be compensated for by the long maximum stroke.

Why iS ThE CSC uSED? A growing number of vehicle manufacturers are choosing this maintenance-free and convenient system which offers many advantages over a purely mechanical solution: • The compact design protects the clutch casing • Few components mean it’s lightweight • Long service life • Automatic adjustment of the clutch ensures a constant pressure point • Plug-in connections for reliable and quick assembly • Path sensor can be integrated aLWayS REPLaCE ThE CLuTCh anD CSC TOgEThER Clutches today have a significantly longer service life than before. Of course, during this long service life, the actuation elements also wear. Therefore, if replacing the clutch due to wear, the slave cylinder should also always be replaced. Repeated removal of the transmission a short time later due to possible failure of the slave cylinder is not economically justifiable for the customer, nor is it good workshop practice.

It is not sufficient to just perform a visual inspection of the CSC during the repair. Worn sealing rings and internal damage due to dirt

and abrasion cannot be discovered in this way.

Due to the very time-consuming disassembly of the transmission, complete replacement of the system with clutch disc, pressure plate, guide bearings and hydraulic CSC is always recommended. Complete replacement also makes sense in terms of the warranty and customer satisfaction.

STOCK uP TODay To complement their extensive clutch programme, FPS has a range of over 170 concentric slave cylinders, ensuring that customers can cover every application.

All parts are available to order on a same-day and next-day basis.

Overview: Concentric Slave Cylinder (CSC) > The CSC is part of a hydraulic clutch part > Combines the function of the clutch operating cylinder, the clutch release bearing, the sliding sleeve and the clutch fork > Always replace the clutch and CSC together > TRW has a range of 41 concentric slave cylinders available through FPS > TRW’s range of CSCs is tested to OE specifications > All TRW CSC part numbers begin PJQ

The range covers many popular vehicles including: Ford: C-Max, Fiesta, Focus, Fusion, galaxy, ka, Mondeo, Transit Vauxhall: Astra, Corsa, Meriva, Omega, Tigra, vectra, Zafira VW: golf, Passat, Polo, Touran Volvo: C30, S40, v50 ... and many more

≥ Volvo C30: Fitted with TRW’s Concentric Slave Cylinder

CONCENTRIC SLAvE CyLINDERS 15

LIgHTINg TECHNOLOgy

VITAL NEWS

Lighting strikes LEaDing EDgE LighTing TEChnOLOgiES aRE BEginning TO FiLTER ThROugh TO ThE mainSTREam. aFTERmaRKET EXPERT LuCaS ShinES a LighT On ThE iSSuES aFFECTing ThE aFTERmaRKET

hOW WiLL ThiS aFFECT ThE mOTOR FaCTOR? In time, if the bulb manufacturers do not increase the life cycle of the bulbs used for DRL, then demand for these bulbs will increase. For factors who supply crash damage repairers, the cost of a headlamp that incorporates DRL will increase. The headlamps will have to be designed with an additional bulb; this could mean an additional bulb in the reflector or a specific reflector just for DRL bulbs. The Lucas range already carries a section of these longer life bulbs called 24/7. These bulbs are intended to offer increased life expectancy of a standard ≥ Long life

headlamp bulbs

16 LIgHTINg TECHNOLOgy

bulb by approximately 50% and can be used to replace daylight running bulbs.

LighTing ThE Way Today’s leading edge technologies in lighting, such as LED and fibre optic, are beginning to filter through to mainstream cars. We have already seen the emergence of HID (High Intensity Discharge) lighting over the last 10 years and although it is not yet in mass production, it is offered on the top models and as an upgrade option.

≥

in 2011 a new piece of legislation comes into force, the first for some time to affect the manufacture of headlamps. From 7th February 2011 new Eu legislation regarding Daylight Running Lamps (DRL) begins. DRL states that vehicles must use a low beam driving lamp at all times whilst driving with the aim of increasing vehicle visibility and thereby reducing accidents. On the latest high specification cars, such as the audi a4, this requirement has already been met using LED (Light Emitting Diodes); other vehicles may include functionally specific lamps to produce the effect. The directive foresees that from this date onwards all new types of passenger cars and small delivery vans will have to be equipped with DRL. Trucks and buses will follow 18 months later, in august 2012.

VW Passat (2005>) rear light unit

LED lighting, particularly in rear lamp design, seems to have moved into mass production quicker than any other new technology. A priority for vehicle manufacturers when designing cars is safety, and LED lighting in rear lamp applications offers improved safety for the driver. The response time, due to faster turn on times, is 0.2 seconds quicker than standard incandescent bulbs; this equates to an extra 19 feet of response time when travelling at 65mph.

Increasingly, LED lighting is seen as an aesthetically-pleasing technology with designers able to present the lighting products on a car in a manner that makes them stand out from other vehicles.

Other advantages of LED lighting are the longer life span – up to 50,000 hours – and low energy consumption. For aftermarket sales the pounds value of a complete LED

lamp will be considerably higher than a lamp with incandescent bulbs, but as with current lamps most crash repair damage only requires the lens to be replaced and therefore this demand should remain constant.

REPLaCEmEnT iSSuES Today’s complex engine compartments have contributed to increased maintenance and replacement costs of headlamp components.

On most modern cars today under bonnet space is at a premium and components invariably get squashed together. In fact for a simple change of headlamp bulb some vehicles, for example the latest Citroën C5, require the complete removal of the headlamp to perform the component change. This procedure of removing surrounding components to replace the headlamp is now a common occurrence – gone are the days of simply removing the bracket bolts!

With over 3,000 references in stock the FPS range provides a genuine alternative to main dealer parts when it comes to replacement headlamps, signal lamps, rear lamps and mirrors. in FOCuS: LighTing • DLR legislation comes into force for all new passenger cars and small delivery vans on 7 th February 2011 • DLR legislation comes into force for trucks and buses in August 2012 • Lucas 24/7 bulbs increase life expectancy by approximately 50% compared to standard bulbs • LED provides faster response times than standard incandescent bulbs – equal to an extra 19 feet of response at 65mph • LED has a lifespan of up to 50,000 hours • Bulb replacement is no longer simple – changing the headlamp bulb can require the complete removal of the headlamp • FPS stocks over 3,000 lighting references

SEAT BELTS

VITAL NEWS

What a bELTER! SEaT BELTS aRE a SaFETy CRiTiCaL PaRT WhOSE imPORTanCE ShOuLD nOT BE OVERLOOKED. SECuROn EXPLain Why QuaLiTy iS KEy

SySTEm COmPOnEnTS The average passenger car requires 5 seat belts. Key components within the seat belt system include:

Seat belt webbing is woven from thousands of strands of polyester. The impact of an accident reduces the effectiveness of the belt because it permanently elongates the webbing – by as much as 13%. If the belt is not replaced following this elongation, the wearer’s body would take the full shock load in subsequent accidents – approximately equal to the weight of a three tonne elephant against the belt.

QuaLiTy iS KEy Securon replacement belts are manufactured and tested to the same European Standards as the original belts. European Standards go far beyond the scope of the MOT test so when a Securon belt is fitted, customers can be assured that they are in safe hands.

Seat belts save lives and reduce injuries if they are in good condition, if not their performance is dramatically affected. When a belt or harness shows signs of wear and tear or abuse the complete system must be replaced. Seat belts are non-serviceable safety products. No attempt

Securon belts are manufactured and carefully tested to European Standards before they can be fitted to motor vehicles. The table below shows some of the key features which are tested as part of the European Standards:

FEATuRE

EuROPEAN STANDARD

does it loCK?

Retracting belts must sense an accident situation and lock the webbing.

does it REtRaCt?

Requires a minimum retraction force to prevent slack in the belt system – slack permits body movement which can result in serious injury.

Is it uSER-fRIEndly? The buckle must disengage when lightly pressing the release so there is no doubt whether the belt is connected or not.

Is it aPPRoVEd?

Has it been uSEd?

Belts must be clearly marked to show the type of belt, approval and approval authority. This ensures only belts of the relevant standard and quality are fitted.

Some belts are fitted with a pretensioner which takes slack out of the system in an accident.

should ever be made to alter, disassemble or repair them as even minor alterations can affect the validity of a belt.

≥

Every year over 400,000 vehicles fail their mOT due to the seat belts, so there is a big opportunity waiting for factors who stock belts.

Holes, cuts, fraying or fluffing weakens the webbing – a small nick weakens the webbing by 70%

innOVaTiOn Securon believes it is the only manufacturer able to provide an ‘E’ approved lap and diagonal seat belt for installation in the centre rear of cars.

The belt uses the anchorage points of the lap belt with one additional fabricated anchorage point. This means the integrity of the lap belt is maintained and additional safety is provided by the diagonal belt.

Over 100 Securon seat belts and harness products are available from FPS.

ImPoRtant datES In uK CaR SEat BElt HIStoRy 1967 1969 1977 1983 1987 1989 1991 1991 1998

New cars must be fitted with front seat belts.

Seat belts first included in MOT test.

MOT test includes all front seat belts.

Compulsory to wear front seat belts.

New cars must be fitted with rear seat belts.

Rear seat belts, if fitted, must be worn by children under 14.

MOT test includes all rear seat belts.

Rear seat belts, if fitted, must be worn by adults.

Every seat belt fitted to a car is included in the MOT test.

SEAT BELTS 17

PRODuCT INDEx

VITAL NEWS

Product Index

SuRFaCE TREaTmEnTS Bodyfillers Paints & Finishing Primers WORKShOP Abrasives Anti-Rust Primer Axle Stands Battery Chargers Booster Cables Brake Cleaner Car Ramps Grinding Paste Paper Rolls Protective Seat Covers Sealants & Adhesives Trolley Jacks Welding Accessories White Spirit

On these pages we’ve set out an alphabetical listing to help you find the item you need quickly and efficiently from the 250,000 products we list, covering 101,000 stock lines. If you can’t see what you need – ask your local branch!

ACCESSORIES & STYLING

Brake Shoes Wear Lead Indicators

EXTERiOR Fuel Caps Horns L Plates Motorcycle Accessories Novelty Stickers Wheel Locks Wheel Trims

WET BRaKing Adjusters Back Plates Brake Hoses Brake Master Cylinders Brake Pipes Calipers Caliper Housings Carriers Repair Kits Servos Wheel Cylinders

inTERiOR 12V Adaptors Air Fresheners Boot Liners Mats Novelty Seat Covers Seat Belts Security Locks Sport Harnesses Storage & Organisers Tax Disc Holders Window Film

BRAKING DRy BRaKing Brake Cables Brake Discs Brake Drums Brake Fitting Kits Brake Pads

18 PRODuCT INDEx

CAR MAINTENANCE aiR COnDiTiOning Air Conditioning Condensers Air Conditioning Gas Cleaners BOOKS Motorcycle Non-Automotive Titles Performance Titles Service & Repair Manuals Technical & Cross Reference EXTERiOR Car Covers Heated Lenses Mirror Glass

Mirror Complete Units Wiper Blades Wiper Jets & Piping inTERiOR Bonnet struts Rear View Mirrors hygiEnE Barrier Cream Disposable Gloves Hand Cleaner Heavy Duty Cleansers Hygiene Dispensers Specialist Cleansers LuBES & FLuiDS AdBlue © Antifreeze Brake Cleaner Brake & Clutch Fluid Damp Start De-Icer De-Ionised Water Easy Start Fuel Additives Greases Hydraulic Fluid Lubricants Oil Additives Oils Radiator Additives Screen Wash Transmission Fluid

COOLING & HEATING COOLing Gaskets Hoses Hose Clips Hose Coils Intercoolers Radiator Caps Radiators Thermostats Water Pumps Water Pump Kits

ELECTRICAL EnginE managEmEnT EGR Valves Engine Position Sensors Fuel Injectors Fuel Pumps Fuel Pump Relays Idle Speed Control Valves Knock Sensors Map Sensors Modules Temperature Sensors Throttle Position Sensors igniTiOn Condensers Distributor Caps Glow Plugs Ignition Coils Ignition Leads Points Rotors Spark Plugs

PRODuCT INDEx

VITAL NEWS

LighTing Beacons Bulb Holders Bulbs Flasher Units Head Lamps Indicators Lenses Rear Lamps

EnginE DRiVE BELTS Drive Belts

STORagE & TRanSFER Alternators Batteries Distributors Generators Inverters Starter Motors Window Regulators Wiper Motors

Fuel Pumps

SWiTChES & SEnSORS ABS Sensors Air Flow Meters Air Mass Meters Column Switches Lambda Sensors Oil Pressure Switches Parking Sensors Pressure Regulators Radiator Fan Switches Reversing Sensors Solenoids Temperature Switches

Fan Belts Industrial Belts Micro-V Belt Kits Micro-V Belts Stretch Fit Belts FuEL LinE Accelerator Cables Fuel Tank Sender Units Turbos TOP EnD Cam Followers Cam Gears Cam Kits Cam Shafts Cylinder Heads Gaskets Head Bolts Head Set & Bolt Kits Lifters Oil Pipes Pre Combustion Chambers Rocker Shafts Seat Inserts Tappets & Trust Pads Valve Guides Valve Springs Valves

ENGINE & FuEL

ExHAuST

BOTTOm EnD Bearings Con Rods Core Plugs Gaskets Oil Pumps Oil Seals Piston Rings Pistons & Liners

EXhauST PaRTS Catalytic Converters

EnginE Timing Flexible Couplings Idlers & Pulleys Oil Seals Overrunning Alternator Pulleys Tensioners Tensioner Kits Timing Belts Timing Belt Kits Timing Chains Timing Chain Kits Torsion Vibration Dampers

Catalytic Converter Fitting Kits Diesel Particulate Filters Exhaust Fittings Exhaust Pipes Exhaust Universal Parts Front Pipes

IN-CAR TECHNOLOGY FiTTing SOLuTiOnS Acoustic Cloth & Carpet Aerials & Adaptors Mobile Phone Accessories Phone & MP3 Connectivity Sound Proofing Sub-boxes & Accessories Wiring & Cables

STEERING & SuSPENSION STEERing Manual Steering Racks Power Steering Pumps Power Steering Racks Steering Boxes Steering Couplings Steering Rack Gaiters Tie Rod Assemblies Track Rod Ends SuSPEnSiOn Ball Joints Bushes Coil Springs Control Arms Engine Mountings Leaf Springs Lever Arms & Suspension Struts Link Arms Radius Arms Shock Absorbers Shock Absorber Adaptor & Protection Kits Sports Kits Stabilisers Suspension Kits Suspension Spheres Tailgate and Bonnet Struts Top Mounts Wishbones

Inter-Pipe Silencers Rear Silencers

FILTRATION FiLTRaTiOn Air Filters Cabin Air Filters Fuel Filters Oil Filters Transmission Filters

TOOLS TOOLS Belt Length Finders Brake Tools Clutch Tools DMF Testing Tools Engine Tools Glow Plug Removal Tools Hand Tools Oil Filter Wrenches Stretch Fit Belt Tools

TRANSMISSION CLuTCh hyDRauLiCS Clutch Hoses Clutch Master Cylinders Clutch Slave Cylinders CLuTCh PaRTS Clutch Bearings Clutch Cables Clutch Kits Concentric Slave Cylinders (CARM) Dual Mass Flywheels Flywheels Pilot Bearings Speedometer Cables DRiVETRain Bearing Hub Units Constant Velocity Boots Constant Velocity Joints Drive ShaftsFlexible Couplings Prop Shaft Centre Bearings Universal Joints Wheel Bearing Kits

TRAVEL & LEISuRE aCCESSORiES Bicycle Carriers Cycle Accessories Domestic Batteries Fire Extinguishers First Aid Kits Funnels & Measuring Jugs Petrol & Diesel Cans Roof Boxes Roof Racks Tow Bar Fitting Kits Tow Bars Trailer & Towing Accessories

VALETING aCCESSORiES Cleaning Products Polish Pressure Washers Valeting Product

Timing Belt Tools & Engine Tools

PRODuCT INDEx 19

COMPETITION TIME! WIN WITH LPR AND FPS!

VITAL NEWS

Win an amazing 3D TV WiTh LPR – a nEW DimEnSiOn in BRaKing!

TEST YOUR KNOWLEDGE OF LPR AND YOU COULD WIN A NEW 3D FLAT SCREEN TV!

Based in Italy, LPR has been in automotive manufacturing since the 1950s, and is now a world leader in the production of brake and clutch hydraulics. LPR has complete control of all raw materials and components, ensuring the finished product is always produced to the same high quality.

LPR’s product portfolio includes brake and clutch hydraulics, brake friction and brake hoses as well as the recently launched Easy Kits – a pre-assembled brake shoe kit that includes: 2 pre-assembled brake shoe sets; 2 wheel cylinders; 1 hold down kit (springs, pins and grease).

G R E C C R E D N I L Y C E V A L S S 1 2 3 4 5 6 7

K E U O B R A K E M B Q H S G B N H E

C X M M K V Y F E E S O L E I E K C S

D E E P S F T W K I W P A O W F Q T O

B G O E F N I C G J R B W H K B B U H

R S I T A V L B R N O I A S R T R L E

A C L I Q L A F E Y I H R E G E A C K

EASYKITS BRAKING LPR COMPETITIVE PRICE SPEED EASY TO USE OE QUALITY

H I P T G C U W A G C K R K E E K X A

I L L I Q U Q S S A G I A A B A E C R

N U P V M M E L E E X L N R U S P L B

J A U E S U O T Y S A E T B B Y A U R

K R O P R I C E C J B F Y C Q K D T A

O D F R Q F H M Y A D C M F S I S C K

8 BRAKE SHOES 9 GREASE 10 BRAKE MASTER CYLINDER 11 CLUTCH MASTER CYLINDER 12 ONLINE CATALOGUE 13 UK TECH SUPPORT

E Y T R O P P U S H C E T K U T E H E

A H F R R E D N I L Y C R E T S A M M

S O N L I N E C A T A L O G U E Y I A

Y O E E H R E R E D N I L Y C R E T S

X S I E A S T X S E N O I T C I R F O

W H E E L C Y L I N D E R E W S D U E

14 15 16 17

WARRANTY BRAKE HOSES BRAKE PADS CLUTCH SLAVE CYLINDER 18 WHEEL CYLINDER 19 FRICTION 20 HYDRAULICS

Easy Kits have many benefits including: ease of ordering; fewer individual components to stock; and a 50% reduction in installation time. Name LPR and their Easy Kits really do offer a new dimension in braking!

Company To be in with a chance of winning this fantastic prize, simply complete the LPR-themed word search. Words read from left, right, up, down, diagonally – some words even change direction like the one in the example! Return your entry to FPS by 28 th February.

Fax your entry on 01789 413038 or post to us at: LPR Competition, FPS, Bridge house, Timothy’s Bridge Road, Stratford upon avon, CV37 9nQ. Good Luck!

FPS BARKING FPS BIRMINGHAM FPS BRISTOL FPS CARDIFF FPS CHARLTON FPS COLCHESTER FPS GLASGOW

Tel: 0845 456 2177 Tel: 0845 456 3144 Tel: 0845 456 3244 Tel: 0845 456 3255 Tel: 0845 456 3266 Tel: 0845 456 3277 Tel: 0845 456 3288

FPS LEEDS FPS LEICESTER FPS LIVERPOOL FPS LUTON FPS MAIDSTONE FPS MANCHESTER FPS NEWCASTLE

Tel No Account No Terms & Conditions – 1. Open to all FPS account customers that are resident in the U.K. 2. Only one competition entry per person. 3. All competition entries must be received by 28/02/11. Proof of posting should not be taken as proof of delivery. 4. The first all-correct entry to be drawn after the closing date will receive the 3D TV. Prize may differ from that shown, which is only for illustrative purposes.

5. FPS reserves the right to withdraw the competition at any time without prior notice. 6. There are no cash alternatives to the prize offered. 7. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 8. The winning entriy will be drawn on 04/03/2011.

Tel: 0845 456 3611 Tel: 0845 456 3622 Tel: 0845 456 3688 Tel: 0845 456 3811 Tel: 0845 456 3833 Tel: 0845 456 3844 Tel: 0845 456 3988

FPS NOTTINGHAM FPS PRESTON FPS READING FPS SHEFFIELD FPS SOUTHAMPTON FPS STAPLES CORNER FPS online trading

Tel: 0845 618 0087 Tel: 0845 456 4055 Tel: 0845 456 4122 Tel: 0845 456 4133 Tel: 0845 456 4155 Tel: 0845 456 4144 www.fdrive.co.uk

The policy of FPS is one of continual improvement. Consequently we reserve the right to amend or withdraw any offers without prior notice. All prices exclude VAT.

CALL YOUR LOCAL FPS BRANCH

…the power to supply from stock today!