Vital News Issue 42 Apr-Jun 2016

ISSUE 42 • APRIL – JUNE 2016

6

Smart solutions for ABDS with Gates

8

www.fdrive.co.uk Cambiare describes EGTS and Oil Level Sensors

16

FPS’ multi-branded offering on travel accessories

COOL AS ICE! Launching the new range of air conditioning parts from Nissens into the FPS portfolio.

INSIDE THIS ISSUE… REGULARS 2 Note from the MD

WELCOME Note from the MD

3 For Your Information 12 Newsdesk 13 Take a Break with Braymann 20 IAAF Update

IAAF Chief Executive Wendy Williamson apprises

22 FPS Product Index 24 Competition Time

This summer, win a Weber Classic 3 Burner Gas BBQ, courtesy of TRW!

FEATURES 4 Up to Speed with Nissens FPS introduces its new air conditioning parts supplier

6 Play it Smart

GATES outlines the benefits of its readymade solutions for accessory belt drive system

7 Quality for Less

FAHREN assures durable, fast-moving friction parts with new-to-range updates

8 Sensing the Trouble

CAMBIARE iterates on the form and function of the new oil level sensors and exhaust gas temperature sensors

10 Evaluating Valves

FEDERAL-MOGUL explains best practice for maintaining inlet and exhaust valves

11 Kilen Springs to Action Speaking about its coil spring quality, KILEN also introduces a new leaf spring

14 Filter, Faster, Longer

K&N ENGINEERING speaks about the technology behind its High-Flow Air Filters™

15 The Perfect Match

TRW AFTERMARKET celebrates a successful first year of its ‘Perfect Match’ initiative

16 Travel – Safe and Easy!

Welcome to the spring/summer issue of Vital News.

‘To be, or not to be’ a part of EU – that’s the question. Wish I knew the answer: Oui or No, Yes or Nein! Silly EU rules and migrants on benefits get the headlines; but as many of the silly rules seem to come from our own Parliament, and I am sure I read somewhere that the unemployment rate for EU workers in the UK is lower than UK workers, so even the facts are confusing.

One thing is certain: Europe has been far more peaceful since the EU – how should we value that? So my guess is the polls will show a drift towards an exit and then as we get closer, we’ll all say, do we really want to chuck this up in the air, and we’ll collectively decide to stay. It’s only a guess, mind you!

Amidst this air of uncertainty though, it’s been business as usual at FPS. In fact, looking ahead at the upcoming summer season, we have enhanced our air conditioning parts and consumables range with the introduction of the Nissens Air Con portfolio; read further on page-4. Continuing with this expansion to provide you with a deeper stock and wider coverage, we have also launched the Shaftec steering range; with its assured technical support and cataloguing, it will surely benefit you while addressing your customers’ demands promptly.

Furthermore, Cambiare has introduced a sleek, new range of oil level sensors and gives a technical update on the these parts as well as exhaust gas temperature sensors on page-8. Take a look at page-6 as well, where Gates offers an

overview of the newly launched Micro-V® Kits Plus Water Pumps for ABDS. This issue also provides coverage to the new-to-range fastmoving friction parts from Fahren and K&N® air filters for specialist vehicles.

As the season for holidays is knocking at the doors, now is the time to prepare for all the leisure and valeting stock. Keeping this in mind, PMA is soon launching a range of valeting products to complement its successful maintenance portfolio. Additionally, leisure brand Royal has introduced a bespoke range of picnic wares to address the ‘Days Out’ segment of the market – read a full coverage on page-19 and page-16 for an update on travel accessories.

We continue to invest in the business, having released F:Drive2 at the end of last year and moved our systems onto a more powerful, more resilient platform in February. The aim of this is to give you an even better level of service and stability, and apologies if there have been any bumps or service interruptions along the way.

But we believe investing in future will provide the tight, long-term solutions. As always, do let us know if you have any feedback.

Meanwhile, happy reading!

Neil Davis Managing Director, FPS ndavis@fpsdistribution.co.uk PROUD TO SUPPORT

CONTRIBUTORS THIS ISSUE…

Make the most with FPS’ multi-brand travel accessory ranges

18 The Sweet Smell of Success

Introducing an exciting new range of Gel Can air fresheners from JELLY BELLY

19 A Royal Day Out!

Get up-to-date with the latest 'Days Out' range from ROYAL and BBQs from IRODA

21 The Safe Way to Remove Rust Learn the easy way to bust the rust with EVAPO-RUST 2 CONTENTS

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

FOR YOUR INFORMATION Product news in detail

WIN TICKETS TO THE FORMULA 1 BRITISH GRAND PRIX WITH NGK! FPS continued to add new parts to its inventory through March 2016, with the following new-to-range additions:

Throughout April and May 2016, motor factors can win tickets for 2 to the Formula 1 British Grand Prix, held at the Silverstone circuit on Sunday 10th July 2016.

Cambiare ABS Sensors – 31 NTR This takes the total ABS sensors parts count to over 600 and affords coverage to almost 23m vehicles in the UK car parc.

Fram Filtration – 13 NTR This includes air filters and cabin filters, taking the current complete range to 1,700+ part numbers.

Blue Print Braking – 10 NTR This consists of 5 brake pads and discs each.

All parts are catalogued on the F:Drive and MAM Autocat+ and available to order from FPS on same/next-day delivery.

The prize includes 4-star hotel accommodation, shuttle transport to/ from the venue along with a full hospitality package, comprising an all-day buffet and complementary bar access.

To be in with a chance of winning, a customer needs to purchase 20 spark plugs from a selection of new-to-range plugs from NGK, available through FPS on same/next-day basis (*T&Cs apply).

360° UPDATE The 360° team has updated the FPS portfolio with new introductions, such as brake master cylinder, wiper motors and radiators to fill existing gaps in range as well as a camshaft solenoid to address emerging technology.

Speak to your local FPS representative for more info on the competition and NTR parts.

Don't forget to email 360@fpsdistribution.co.uk, if you spot any more gaps.

*T&Cs: 1. The campaign runs from 1st April to 31st May 2016. 2. 1 entry for every 20 parts purchased from the selected range. 3.

MOQs apply for each part purchased. 4. The winner will be selected at random. 5. No cash alternatives to the prizes will be offered.

6. Entrants must be aged 18 years and over. 7. Images are for illustrative purposes only.

PMA VALETING The approach of spring/summer indicates an increased demand on valeting products amongst vehicle owners.

As an addition to the PMA range, PMA Valeting has now launched.

Catering to all car care requirements, the range includes 35 products in categories: • Bodywork cleaning • Wheel & tyre • Interior • Glass • Bumper & trim The complete range of 15 trade and 20 retail products will be available to order within the next month. Key products include the 5 litre Standard TFR that offers a significant saving against competition.

Look out for more information on this upcoming portfolio.

Retail VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

Trade FOR YOUR INFORMATION 3

UP TO SPEED WITH FPS welcomes NISSENS as its new air conditioning parts supplier.

Most modern vehicles are equipped with air conditioning systems and knowledge and expertise of the components are gradually turning into a competitive advantage that generates good profits for the motor factor. With 95 years of experience, Nissens is recognised as a leading expert in engine cooling solutions and air conditioning (AC) and will now offer AC parts through FPS, backed by its complete thermal know-how and manufacturing experience.

As a leading manufacturer of essential climate system components, Nissens offers a comprehensive range of high-quality air conditioning spare parts, covering more than 9,600 OE numbers, while simultaneously offering technical support for climate systems. With its focus on added features, such as quality, ‘First Fit’ and ‘First to Market’, the partnership between Nissens and FPS ensures that the UK motor factors are always well-informed on the latest market trends.

TAKING THE LEAD ON AC COMPRESSORS Servicing the compressor correctly is crucial to the efficiency of the AC system. During an AC cycle, the compressor enables the refrigerant to change its state from gas to liquid and flow through the different components of the system as well as through the high and low pressure sides.

equivalent. Furthermore, critical components, such as the pulley, clutch hub, bearing and wobble plate are improved to withstand higher stress, tensions and temperatures than expected of OE units.

In spite of this, motor factors need to be aware of the most critical aspect of compressor service and installation – correct lubrication.

CHECK THE ADDITIVE As all moving parts are fitted with millimetre precision, every aspect of the setup is expected to perform within the boundaries of an exceptionally narrow margin. Part of this setup is the lubrication, essential for all movements of the compressor. Factors must be careful when dealing with additives, as incorrect use can make them extremely harmful to compressor lubrication.

When working with additives, there are three particular problems that are prone to occur:

• Too much UV agent: will dilute the oil; resulting in improper

Schematic of a car air conditioning cycle

To ensure that everything performs to the highest standards, Nissens conducts advanced life and performance tests as well as back-to-back tests against OE units, so that every single product in Nissens’ 400+ compressor range, covering more than 2,000 OE numbers, fully matches the OE

4 AIR CONDITIONING

viscosity and in turn, poor lubrication and increased pressure in the system.

• Flushing agent residues in the system: can impair the Teflon coating in the compressor, especially if the system is not thoroughly flushed afterwards. Teflon deterioration causes particles to peel off, eventually clogging the system and causing the compressor to seize.

• Leak-stop contaminated oil: incorrect vacuum removal can leave moisture in the compressor system. As some leak-stop agents work by crystallising moisture in leakage areas, a poorly vacuumed compressor will experience extensive crystallisation consequently contaminating the circuit, reducing the lubrication abilities of the oil, causing the compressor to eventually seize.

SYSTEM LUBRICATION Another important factor is the oil. PAG oil is the most common lubricant used in modern automotive air conditioning systems running on R134a and R1234yf. It is a fully synthetic oil that offers efficient and universal lubricating parameters. It is conductive, highly

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

AIR CON hygroscopic and is available in several viscosity versions (46/100/150).

PAO68, on the other hand, is a non-hygroscopic formula that acts as an alternative to all the PAG versions.

Although the characteristics of PAO and PAG seem similar, their viscosity parameters are different. A common reason for AC compressor failure is the use of the wrong oil type and viscosity. Since the wrong oil mixture will not penetrate parts precisely, friction will cause the compressors to overheat and seize.

To ensure easy installation, Nissens compressors are always pre-filled with PAG oil of the right quantity and viscosity.

The double end-capped, chemically inactive and stable PAG oil offers exceptionally good lubrication characteristics, high moisture tolerance at high temperatures and does not react chemically to form harmful acids or compounds.

It is advisable to always mount a corrosion-protected condenser as saltwater tests show that they offer up to eight times longer lifespan than non-protected condensers – 500+ of Nissens condensers offer corrosion protection.

DON’T FORGET THE RECEIVER DRIER

THE HIDDEN CONDENSER ISSUES As one of the AC components closest to the external environment, condensers experience extensive wear and tear during their lifetime.

Since roads are covered in salt during the colder months of the year, saltwater will spray onto the exposed condenser and increase the risk of corrosion in the system; thus reducing the efficiency of the AC system and increasing the workload, affecting other AC system components.

It is very important to remember a crucial key point about another AC product – the receiver drier. Replacing this part is essential when servicing the system and a must when replacing key AC components such as the compressor and condenser. The Nissens receiver drier range covers more than 800 OE numbers.

How corrosion can affect a condenser: a worn and corroded condenser compared to a new, replacement item

The main effects of condenser corrosion are:

• Deterioration of condenser fins: resulting in condenser leakage, causing a reduced working surface area and thus a significant reduction in the heat exchange capacity.

• Lack of fins: resulting in a significantly less effective condensation process and causing the compressor to overload.

• Leaking condenser: as a result of the destabilised condenser structure caused by a lack of fins.

As the refrigerant disappears, the condenser will lose its cooling capacity, causing the compressor to overheat.

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

With Nissens First Fit, FPS now offers everything that is needed – right there in the box, meaning no extra elements will have to be purchased or fitted, providing garages with a quick and trouble-free installation. This contributes to the comfort and safety of the journey and makes sure that the end-user can experience the difference.

SUMMARY • Nissens AC range covers more than 9,600 OE numbers and is available from FPS now.

• O-rings and pre-filled PAG oil available on all compressors.

• Nissens offers corrosion protection on 500+ of its condensers.

• All parts are manufactured to match OE specifications.

• Products are ISO9001/TS16949 and ISO 14001 certified and Ford Q1 approved.

• Fast delivery: same/next-day delivery guarantee from FPS. Speak to your local FPS representative to know more or to gather stockist information.

AIR CONDITIONING 5

PLAY IT SMART GATES offers smart solutions for the Accessory Belt Drive System (ABDS) with Micro-V® Kits Plus Water Pumps.

Having all the parts at hand when performing a replacement job on the accessory belt drive system (ABDS) is not only convenient, it also saves time and makes a workshop more efficient. As a complete systems provider, Gates provides several ready-made solutions for all replacement needs related to ABDS. Accessory belt drive systems are becoming increasingly complex.

So, any component failure will have a much higher impact on the performance of the entire engine. Factors should therefore encourage workshops to take a full service approach to ABDS to be able to extend better service to their customers.

MICRO-V® KITS FOR A COMPLETE OVERHAUL Failures such as sudden loss of power steering or belt drive system breakdown can be prevented by replacing the multi-ribbed belts and all related drive components simultaneously. Gates has the most extensive Micro-V® Kit range in the market that helps save the time and hassle of finding the different parts required. The Gates Micro-V® Kits and the new range of Micro-V® Kits Plus Water Pumps, offer convenience and quality, all in one box.

What’s New? With Micro-V® Kits as well as Torsional Vibration Damper (TVD) Kits and now, the Micro-V® Kits Plus Water Pumps in its range, Gates is a one-stop-shop for all ABDS service parts.

Focusing on the UK car parc as well as the average mileage on specific applications such as the Vauxhall Vivaro, the new range of Micro-V® Kits Plus Water Pumps was launched through February and March 2016 and comprises 21 parts; further range extensions are planned for the rest of the year.

As with the popular PowerGrip® Kits Plus Water Pumps range, each Micro-V® Kit Plus Water Pump contains an application specific water pump of the same OE quality usually associated with Gates.

Moreover, the OE quality components fit the applications perfectly.

This aids garages and workshops as: • A full replacement prevents costly comebacks • Ordering only one product saves time and therefore, money Not changing the water pump along with the other components can also increase the risk of an ABDS breakdown.

TORSIONAL VIBRATION DAMPERS, INCLUDING ALL MOUNTING BOLTS When replacing TVDs, technicians need new crankshaft bolts and installation bolts. Gates promotes best practice by including these bolts in the TVD box.

Not all bolts are the same TVDs may be fixed with one or multiple central crankshaft bolt(s), multiple installation bolts or a combination of both. Crankshaft bolts cannot be re-used and need replacement and although installation bolts could be re-used, it is not advisable to do so, since in most cases, they will have suffered from heavy loads.

Engines perform at their best when belts and all metal components work smoothly together. As an OE supplier, Gates recommends that all wear parts should be replaced at the same time with high quality components from a trusted brand.

Gates is the market leading supplier for accessory belt drive system service parts. Gates’ experience with OE and expertise in ABDS drive design ensures the superiority and reliability of the ABDS parts, including belts, tensioners, idlers, water pumps, torsional vibration dampers and overrunning alternator pulleys. All parts are available from FPS on same/next-day delivery, along with sales and technical support, where needed.

Speak to your local Gates or FPS representative for more information.

6 ACCESSORY BELT DRIVE SYSTEMS

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

Aftermarket supplier FAHREN tells VITAL NEWS why it is the best bet for friction parts in the fast-moving segment.

The aftermarket is currently flooded with a bewildering array of braking parts; a recent study has identified close to 60 brands within the UK*. The need for competitively priced braking parts is no longer the preserve of ageing applications or budget marques alone. Garages are now inching towards entry-level products in search of better profit margins, due to the increasingly regulated spending power of vehicle owners. This has established the need for fast-moving braking parts to address an ever-evolving Pareto across all vehicle segments.

Whilst the requirement of such a product is established, many brands flooding the aftermarket and offering affordable products are associated with quality issues such as squealing and harshness.

Braking parts are safety-critical and so, quality irrespective of price point should be the driving factor behind the choice of replacement pads and shoes.

Launched in 2013, Fahren offers a short range of OE quality, fastmoving references and affords a strong aftermarket portfolio within the price point. (*source: CAT magazine)

VALUE FOR MONEY Fahren has a slim and concise stock profile, consisting of:

• 213 brake pads, covering 24m vehicles in the UK • 39 brake shoes, covering 7.7m vehicles in the UK Distributed exclusively by FPS, Fahren presents factors the opportunity to carry optimum stock and yet respond to their customers’ demand quickly, resulting in efficient stock turnover and better cash flow.

Furthermore, the logistic support from FPS affords same/next-day replenishment for the full range, placing Fahren on a stronger footing than other affordable brands.

While most brands supplying affordable parts to the aftermarket lack the aesthetics related to a professional proposition, Fahren’s eye-catching packaging offers a distinctive on-shelf presence compared to its competition.

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

QUALITY ASSURED In spite of addressing the fast-moving segment, Fahren understands the criticality associated with the quality and build of braking components.

All Fahren parts:

• undergo stringent testing and quality checks throughout the production lifecycle • meet OE specifications • are ECE R90 compliant where required • are antimony, lead and Cr6+ free • offer 1 year/12,000 mile warranty, whichever comes first Fahren also ensures that as well as its labels being fully compliant with R90 they double up as a cross-referencing tool, listing the 5 main braking brands (shown above). All warranty claims are serviced by FPS’ online warranty module; however, Fahren’s OE quality assurance has resulted in extremely low warranty returns.

WHAT’S NEW? An on-going programme of proactively listening to the demands of the market and refreshing the range ensures that the Fahren portfolio remains up-to-date.

Addressing the decline in sales on specific references, Fahren will replace 10 brake pads with new-to-range parts in May 2016, all of which will be available the same-day across the FPS branch network.

Highlights include:

• FBP0221: Kia Sportage 1.7 CRDi (11/2010>) • FBP0223: BMW 320d 2.0 E90 (08/2007-12/2011) • FBP0224: Vauxhall Vivaro 1.6 CDTI X82 (08/2014>) These parts account for the emerging high-volume applications, where the requirement of entry-level parts have been identified, while covering the whole span of vehicles, from small city cars and luxury German marques to high-mileage LCVs. All parts will be fully catalogued on MAM Autocat+ and the F:Drive, including cross-references against market-leading braking programmes.

Speak to your local FPS representative and ensure you reap the benefits of this competitive, fast-moving range of braking parts.

BRAKING 7

SENSI TRO CAMBIARE elaborates on the workings of two very diverse, y – Oil Level Sensors and Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor Vehicle electronics specialist Cambiare understands the importance of introducing such products that are relevant to the current aftermarket demands or help meet various regulatory requirements placed on modern engine systems. Keeping this in mind, Cambiare has recently introduced a short range of oil level sensors, while extending its successful range of exhaust gas temperature sensors (EGTS).

EXHAUST GAS TEMPERATURE SENSORS (EGTS) With emission standards becoming increasingly stringent, vehicle manufacturers are developing newer technologies to meet the legislations necessitating the release of cleaner exhaust gases. An EGTS measures the temperature of the exhaust gas which is monitored by the ECU to help prevent damage to components.

FORM AND FUNCTION Cambiare’s current range of over 100 EGTS covers 2.6m vehicles in the UK and offers two variations: positive temperature coefficient (PTC) and negative temperature coefficient (NTC) sensors. Typically measuring temperatures up to 900°C in the exhaust system, the resistance of the EGT sensing element alters with the change in exhaust temperature.

Nut Stainless cover Whilst the more common PTC sensors function by Sheath pin Thread increasing their resistance with increasing exhaust gas temperature, the Metal case Stainless wire NTC sensors decrease their resistance with a subsequent temperature Pt wire increase. This resistance Thermistor is registered by the ECU Sensing tip Cement in order to take necessary actions, ranging from protection from thermal Fig 1: Cross-section through an EGTS overload during DPF regeneration and selective catalytic reduction (SCR) to exhaust gas recirculation and overall engine combustion.

8 VEHICLE ELECTRONICS

FAULTS AND FAILURE A faulty sensor can drift out of tolerance limits and give incorrect readings, causing over-fuelling issues during regeneration, due to the process being prolonged.

PTC EGTS are designed in such a way that it will continue to relay misinformation to the ECU without setting a diagnostic trouble code, making it seem like the DPF is regenerating within its permitted temperature range and delay the detection of thermal overload. Many a time, a DPF is wrongly assessed to be faulty, when it’s actually the failed EGTS which needs replacement.

NTC sensors, on the other hand, are designed with two wires bonded to a ceramic cell. With time, this bond can break and the sensor goes into an open circuit, triggering the engine check light – an easy fault to diagnose.

EGTS are primarily prone to damage during exhaust component replacements and should therefore be replaced simultaneously with a DPF and/or exhaust, rather than waiting for the dashboard warning light to illuminate.

Other causes include:

• Severe vibration that can break the connection of internal wires.

• Excessively high temperatures (T>900°C) causing resistance deviation of the thermistor element.

• Severely bent wires (where bending diameter<20mm) that can cause wire breakage.

• Contamination from oil, antifreeze or poor fuel quality.

Timely diagnosis and replacement of a defective EGTS prevents damage to the DPF and subsequent engine damage.

CAMBIARE FOR CHANGE Working in critical environment makes it vital that the replacement EGTS is OE quality, offers engine control, over-temperature protection and a long life in extreme conditions of temperature, vibration and contamination. Made of high temperature resistant metals and ceramics, Cambiare EGTS afford high mechanical, thermo-mechanical and physiochemical stability.

Benefits include:

• Extremely wide operating temperature range • High long-term stability • Standardised characteristic curve • Short response time in transient conditions

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

NG THE UBLE et important elements within the engine management system s (EGTS) to help factors develop brand new profit streams.

OIL LEVEL SENSORS

REPLACEMENT

Having identified a yet untapped business opportunity in the aftermarket, Cambiare has introduced a sleek range of 10 oil level sensors, covering 1.2 million vehicles on the UK roads, which provides an ideal stocking option for the factors.

FORM AND FUNCTION The oil level sensor plays a simple but critical part in the functioning of the engine. Its purpose is to monitor the engine oil level and alert the driver when it goes beyond acceptable limits. Not acting on the signal promptly could lead to significant engine damage and consequently, expensive repairs.

Whilst there are various kinds of oil level sensors, Cambiare’s range includes the latest technologies, such as the Ultrasonic type.

Ultrasonic sensors are transducers that convert ultrasound waves to electrical signals or vice versa. Essentially acting like microphones, they detect ultrasonic noise present under certain conditions, convert it to an electrical signal and relay this information back to the driver as dashboard warnings.

Fig 2 shows a vehicle’s oil level threshold. As stated above, an oil level sensor warning light on the dashboard will light up when the engine is running low on oil. However, some vehicles have check control systems which warn the driver when the oil level is either too low or too high.

The oil level sensor is mostly located on the sump and is fixed in place with three or four bolts and an electrical connector (Fig 3).

Depending on its location, the replacement of the sensor can be quite straightforward.

However, any residual oil should be drained before changing the sensor.

Fig 3: A sump-mounted oil level sensor

Warning Lights If the dashboard warning light keeps illuminating or the oil gauge reads low even after a top-up, there is a good chance that the oil level sensor is faulty.

In such situations, the following steps are recommended:

1. The oil level should be checked manually with a dipstick, wherever possible 2. If the reading is full, the circuit should be tested for wiring defects 3. The oil level sensor should only be replaced if found faulty and all other faults have been checked for CAMBIARE FOR CHANGE As well as Cambiare’s OE quality assurance and a wide coverage through such a short range, there are plans to extend the range further, depending on incoming market demands.

VALUE ADDED SERVICES • All parts are OE quality and offer 2 year/30,000 mile warranty.

• Supported exclusively by FPS’ stocking and logistics.

Oil level min/max

Signal Time Elapsed (in millisec)

• Parts catalogued on Cambiare website: www.cambiare-ve.com as well as MAM Autocat+ and the F:Drive; search path: Fuel & Engine Management>Engine Management & Fuel Inj. Parts> Oil Level Sensors or Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors.

• Cambiare offers technical support via a devoted hotline no. 0845 543 8280.

Measuring range of sensor

Min Fig 2: Vehicle Oil Level Threshold

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

• FPS provides comprehensive marketing collateral for Cambiare to aid motor factors.

Max

Oil Level (in mm)

Speak to a local Cambiare or FPS representative for more information.

VEHICLE ELECTRONICS 9

EVALUATING VALVES FEDERAL-MOGUL addresses the various problems associated with the upkeep of exhaust and inlet valves and ways to prevent them.

Traditionally, the valves in older engines used to get lubricated by the products of combustion. With the evolution of better fuel technology, low-leaded and LPG fuels have taken over and these produce dryer, lubrication-free exhaust gases – resulting in unlubricated valve faces.

Combined with slack tappets, weak springs or valve-to-port seat misalignment, the exhaust valve seat can suffer a heavy pounding and serious wear.

On turbocharged diesel engines, the inlet valve can suffer too; the increased air pressure in the inlet port prevents the lubricating oil from accessing the air stream from the valve guide, resulting in dryness and wear of the valve face and seat. However, the wet fuel in turbocharged petrol engines acts as enough of a lubricant to prevent the occurrence of any wear.

DESIGNED OUT Vehicle manufacturers have made various design alterations to prevent exhaust valve face wear, such as:

• amending the valve geometry • specifying more wear-resistant materials for valves and seats • changing the metallurgy of the cast iron head For inlet valves, replacement valves from reputable manufacturers incorporate proven materials, design innovations and manufacturing techniques for effective wear prevention.

BURNING AND GUTTERING Exhaust valves tend to go through valve face burning and guttering; the latter forming a deep channel in the valve head that develops cracks or breakage of the valve itself.

Likely causes include:

• Lack of tappet clearance: allowing carbon build-up on the seating face and destroying the thermal heat path outlet. This raises valve head temperature until hot corrosion or burning occurs, thereby increasing the localised gas leak and subsequent torching that creates the gutter.

• Carbon deposit build-up between valve face and seat: caused by fuel rich combustion and excessive oil consumption. It destroys the thermal path, leading to valve burn out. This too can cause a localised gas leakage and accelerated failure.

• Torching during erosion: of the nickel-based alloy of the valve faces, creating a distinctive deep gutter.

• Pre-ignition: wrong air/fuel ratio, inaccurate timing or incandescent hot spots on the periphery of the valve head produce high gas loads and localised high temperatures, leading to guttering or piston failure.

10 ENGINE VALVES

In case of an inlet valve, the alloy carbon-steel composition has the same burning and erosion characteristics as the nickel-based alloys and leads to guttering as a result of broad-face burning.

A BROADER PROBLEM Broad- face burning is when the valve face gets burnt without any visible deep gutter or local channelling. The valve material is burnt or corroded across the exhaust face, so instead of a localised escape of gas, there’s an escape over a wider area – affecting the exhaust performance noticeably.

The problem is most likely to affect non hard faced valves and is caused by:

• valve head/seat misalignment • weak valve springs • movement of the valve seat insert Rarely can inlet valves be affected by the same reasons.

PREVENTION Manufacturers have been continually taking steps to eliminate these issues with valves.

But careful fitting and adjustment ensuring that replacement parts are only sourced from reputable manufacturers is always the best way to avoid problems. FederalMogul, with years of expertise and quality control modules, ensures that its valves are OE-specific and deliver to the exacting standards expected of them.

Further information can be found on Federal-Mogul’s Service Bulletins SB2135 and SB2138.

Speak to your local FPS representative or log on to www.partinfo.co.uk or www.fmecat/eu

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

SPRINGS TO ACTION Spring manufacturer KILEN stresses the OE quality of its replacement coil springs while introducing a new composite leaf spring to its range.

Coil springs are deceptively simple; a length of steel formed into a helix and painted black. However, they are safety-critical and responsible for maintaining the correct vehicle ride height while absorbing impacts during travel. Constantly exposed to the elements, they are subjected to high amounts of stress as they support the weight of the vehicle, isolating it from the road.

As the labour costs associated with coil spring replacement can often be more than the cost of the spring itself, it is economical to choose quality over price. Care should also be taken to assess that the spring material is of appropriate quality and the spring surface is suitably protected from corrosion, to ensure it can withstand years of dynamic use.

Features of a Kilen Coil Spring 3 year manufacturer warranty on all coil springs

Additional layer of corrosion protection between the paint and the spring by using zinc phosphate that deters corrosion even after defects occur in the paint layer

Multi-stage heat treatment process improves fatigue strength and ensures a tough and ductile spring ‘Shot peening’ further improves fatigue strength and provides optimal surface for painting

FAILURE The most common cause of spring failure is corrosion, as chips in the exposed layer of paint cannot be avoided. Without additional protection, the spring will immediately begin to rust, leading to creep corrosion under the paint which spreads rapidly, greatly reducing spring life expectancy.

The figure below shows surface defects on a spring after 1000 hours of salt spray testing. There are many small rust points, plus a large area where laser surface etching was used to apply logo and part number. It is clear this solution compromises surface quality.

FPS offers a comprehensive range of around 3,800 Kilen coil springs.

Kilen also produces gas and leaf springs and has recently introduced its first fibreglass-resin composite leaf spring.

A defective coil spring

WHY CHOOSE KILEN? The quality of the steel wire used to produce coil springs is of utmost importance as surface and inner steel defects can reduce the spring fatigue strength, leading to premature sag whilst increasing the risk of early breakage. Only a few steel mills worldwide are capable of achieving the necessary surface and internal wire quality for modern suspension springs and Kilen sources only the highest grade specialist spring steel from selected mills.

Each Kilen coil spring is manufactured in-house, checked to ensure correct fitment, and designed to match or exceed OE quality.

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

NEW ENTRY

Product: Front Leaf Spring (part no. 538005) for Mercedes Sprinter Material: Fibreglass-resin composite Benefits: • Offers a weight saving compared to traditional steel leaf springs, allowing for a slightly increased payload • Immune to corrosion and significantly more durable than steel springs All of these parts benefit from FPS’ stock and logistics support. Speak to your local representative for further information.

SPRINGS 11

NEWSDESK What’s new from the market

SHAFTEC STEERING INTRODUCED TO FPS

DID YOU KNOW? JURATEK HGV PARTS LAUNCHED From April 2016, FPS will stock Shaftec’s steering range, across racks, pumps and columns, alongside its range of CV joints, driveshafts, steering gaiters and hub nuts.

The comprehensive range includes EHPS (Electro-Hydraulic Power Steering) pumps, manual and EPS (Electric Power Steering) racks and electric steering columns and the majority are available to order same/ next-day. All steering products come with a 12,000 mile/1 year warranty (whichever comes first).

All components conform to OE specifications and are remanufactured in-house. Technical support can be reached via Shaftec’s hotline (0844 257 1818) and up to date catalogue information is available on MAM Autocat+ and the F:Drive.

To find out more, speak to your local FPS representative.

FPS will be launching a short, fast-moving range of 20 brake discs and 20 brake pads from Juratek in April 2016, all available same-day.

Speak to your local FPS representative for more details.

HEAVY DUTY SUPPORT The ‘HGV Search’ function on the new F:Drive2 exclusively lists specialist truck and trailer parts not catalogued by MAM Autocat+. The integrated search function also provides full OE cross references to help find the right part, the first time.

All this can be accessed using your regular F:Drive login.

GS LEISURE BATTERIES NOW NATIONAL CARAVAN COUNCIL (NCC) APPROVED The GS Leisure battery range is now fully approved by the new National Caravan Council Verified Leisure Battery Scheme.

Officially launched in Autumn 2015, the scheme provides product verification for batteries used in leisure vehicles and ensures that caravan and motorhome users can easily identify which batteries on the market are quoting accurate, verified specifications. The NCC is also encouraging its leisure vehicle manufacturer members to fit NCC verified leisure batteries.

As part of the new scheme, all batteries will be verified and rated by the NCC through a comprehensive, industry-leading, testing process conducted by suitably certified and audited test houses. Once verified, the batteries are categorised as A, B or C, depending on their capacity and intended purpose. The verified batteries will carry clear NCC labelling, indicating the approval and category for consumers.

With modern leisure vehicles featuring more technology and electrical appliances than ever before, buying an NCC verified leisure battery will provide consumers with the confidence that the battery they purchase is fit for purpose and will perform as advertised.

The GS Leisure batteries range, available through FPS, includes six references ranging in capacity from 70Ah to 115Ah. They are supplied charged and ready to fit and feature a State of Charge (SoC) indicator along with enhanced safety features, such as low storage life and deep cycle capability. Each battery is an NCC verified category C product ideal for caravan and motorhome use. Speak to your local FPS representative for more information.

12 NEWSDESK

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

COMPETITION WINNER

FPS NEWS

Heartiest congratulations to Dirk Bennett from Lvw Group Ltd, Osterley who is the lucky winner of the febi competition from Vital News January. Dirk intends to spend the £500 worth of Red Letter Days vouchers on a Driving Day experience in the Brecon Becons, driving such vehicles as the Nissan Skyline and Mazda MX-5.

FPS TAKES ACTION TO CHANGE LIVES, STARTING WITH ITS OWN! At the start of 2016, FPS launched Action Pact – a 12-month campaign aimed at improving employees’ health and wellbeing, while raising money for some fantastic causes.

FPS is hosting a series of monthly events and challenges, with five FPS teams tackling the Leaderboard Triathlon at Eaton Dorney Lake, Windsor in July. Suppliers such as Kilen, TRW and ZF are getting in on the action too, by sponsoring these initiatives.

The fundraising efforts will support some very worthy causes, including Sport Relief: a charity promoting physical and mental health and education, both in the UK and in some of the poorest communities across the world.

Over the course of the year, FPS will tot-up the miles covered in all of the events to complete a virtual relay, calling at every FPS location, and if successful, will turn the miles into pounds for Sport Relief. There are lots of ways customers can get involved with their local branch activities, from providing sponsorship to joining training and lots in between. Please contact your local branch for more information.

TAKE A BREAK

This issue, you can win an exciting Weber Classic 3 Burner Gas Barbecue, courtesy of TRW! Simply ‘Spot the Differences’ on the back page and send it to FPS by 20th May 2016. All the best!

Dirk Bennett (right) receiving the prize from Graham Wilde, FPS Territory Manager, Liverpool.

WITH

Prepare well for your summer brake!

Thanks to BRAYMANN for sponsoring this issue’s Take A Break. Nothing says summer like jumping in the car with friends or family, rolling down the windows and cruising to your fun destination. This also means preparing the car well for the trip – being safety-critical, it is vital to check friction parts prior to a trip. Braymann offers OE quality braking solutions through a comprehensive range, with driver safety at the forefront of its programme. It also provides technical support via hotline (0844 346 0655) and a user-friendly website (www.braymann.co.uk). Alongside, FPS stocks a wide spectrum of leisure and travel accessories to help make road trips smoother and more enjoyable.

What do summer road trips and road trippers look like? Some travel-related companies have been taking polls and surveys — some scientific, some not so much – and here are our favourite facts about warm weather road trippers:

Most of us are hitting the road this summer: a substantial increase in the number of adults choosing to go on road trips this year is being noticed every year.

Biggest summer road trip headaches: road accidents and breakdowns (74%) are the winners here, with flat tyres coming a distant second (49%).

The biggest road trippers: 30-39ers are the most ‘driven’ age group, with 87% choosing road trips over other means of travel.

We spend more than we plan to: with food/restaurants and fuel topping the list of expenditures – kind of makes air travel more economical. At 30,000 feet, there is very little scope to stop by a Starbucks!

Kids – things they say: the top three answers from responders are #3: “Are we there yet?” #2: “I’m hungry” and #1: “I have to go to the bathroom”.

Travel buddies are important: 34% responded that the ‘company’ was the most important part of the trip, sometimes making traffic jams and breakdowns bearable too!

The games road trippers play: Parents also revealed what travel games they play with their kids, and ‘I Spy’ tops the list, followed by ‘License Plate’, ‘20 Questions’ and ‘Punch Bag’, a game where you punch someone's arm every time you see a VW Beetle before they do.

"You can sightsee from the car – we’re not stopping": 83% of road trippers spend 6+ hours in a car, stopping only for fuel or toilet breaks. Surely drivers who don’t pull over for spur-of-the-moment sightseeing might seem like dictatorial killjoys, but they'll also get you to the destination in record time.

What we can conclude is that summer road trips are about taking the good with the bad!

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

(Courtesy: Bridgestone and Waze)

TAKE A BREAK 13

FILTER, FASTER, LONGER K&N ENGINEERING elaborates on the technology behind its High-Flow Air Filters™.

K&N Engineering is the world's leading manufacturer of washable, performance air filters. FPS stocks more than 300 parts from the range of High-Flow Air FiltersTM to cover all major vehicles.

Popular parts include:

• 33-2865 for Audi A3 1.6 (2009>) • 33-2955 for Ford Fiesta 1.6 (2008>) • 33-2787 for Vauxhall Astra 1.6 (2004-2009)

K&N air filters are designed specifically with their applications in mind. The three key elements behind the production of the filters are air flow, efficiency and capacity (filter life). The pleat height, pleat count and the weave count (density) of the cotton along with the number of layers used are all taken into account while designing the filters. All these variables work together in the final product. The filters are then factory-treated with specially formulated filter oil, before being released to the market for sale.

QUALITY AND TESTING The filters offer higher air flow and engine performance, owing to some unique production methods that have helped the brand establish itself as a market leader in performance air filter technology.

TECHNOLOGY WITHIN K&N filters use a significantly different technology than other types of air filters. Most disposable filters are barrier filters: their filtering media act as a physical barrier to dust particles. Air can’t flow through the media once the pores get clogged by dust particles. This principle is called ‘surface loading’.

Once the test stand has automatically shut off at a specified filter restriction, the efficiency is calculated by processing the mass of dust fed and the condition of the air filter housing and the filter itself. Any dust that passes through the filter during the test is captured in a ‘high density’ absolute filter and this data is processed to draw a full life efficiency rating. Many K&N filters achieve 98-99% efficiency, owing to product design quality that offers a longer service life and much lower restriction than other brands.

AIRFLOW PRINCIPLE EXPLAINED K&N air filters on the other hand are manufactured using 2, 4 or 6 layers of cotton fabric (as shown on right), the medium absorbs dirt and dust particles instead of physically blocking them, a process known as ‘depth loading’. The pores in the material continue to let air flow through as the filter absorbs dirt in the medium.

14 FILTERS

All K&N filters undergo air flow and filtration efficiency testing in a state-of-the-art, in-house filtration test facility.

The filters are designed to allow more air flow than their OE counterpart; their OILING THE FILTERS efficiency and capacity tested by feeding specific test dust to a test filter in a controlled environment. The ISO 5011 test protocol is used to ensure that all results are comparable and up to K&N’s quality standards.

All of this sets K&N High-Flow Air FiltersTM apart and makes them a perfect choice for specialist filtration needs.

For more details please speak to your local FPS representative.

THE PLEATING PROCESS

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

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THE PERFECT MATCH 0 m il e s w a

rr

TRW explains to VITAL NEWS how its Perfect Match initiative is the most efficient and sensible business option for motor factors.

TRW is celebrating the successful completion of the first year of its ‘Perfect Match’ initiative – a programme that explains how fitting TRW branded pads and discs together is the safest way forward for garages and motorists, assuring safety, performance and efficiency. As well as boosting sales figures and communicating the safety message to its audience across various media routes, the objective of the initiative has been to provide the safest possible driving experience for everyone.

THE INITIATIVE The Perfect Match programme offers an extended 3 year/36,000 mile warranty against material or production defects to installers and their customers, who use both the TRW replacement brake pads and discs together*; this requires validation by registering on the TRW website.

Drawing on the expertise of the engineers across the business and integrating OE knowledge into the aftermarket offer, TRW ensures that the premium quality parts work in perfect harmony within the system.

Other value added benefits include:

• Pads are coated in a silicate layer called Cotec, developed by TRW Aftermarket for a safer drive. It significantly improves the stopping distances of vehicles the first few times after fitment and speeds up the ‘bedding in’ process of the pad attached to the brake disc.

• Discs are coated only where necessary – on the hub and the edge, providing superior corrosion protection and reducing bedding in time, guaranteeing superior performance from the first stop.

Both enhance the braking performance during component lifetime.

*Full T&Cs can be found at http://www.trwaftermarket.com/en/Perfect-Match/

THE OFFERING The Perfect Match provides coverage for 98% of the European car parc through an all makes, premium product quality programme of more than 1,200 brake discs and in excess of 1,800 brake pads. All parts within the premium range are fully ECE R90 compliant where required. Sealing the deal is full product marketing and technical support and where necessary, all fitting accessories and instructions provided as standard in the product box.

Mercedes E220 2.1 CDI (05/2009-02/2014)

Brake Disc (DF4863S)

Brake Pad (GDB1736)

TRW Aftermarket’s full braking programme is available to UK motor factors from FPS. The products are available on same/next-day delivery service across FPS’ network of 20 branches. Ask your local FPS representative for details.

TRW AND FPS ARE CELEBRATING THE FIRST ANNIVERSARY OF THE PERFECT MATCH INITIATIVE SOON – BE SURE TO LOOKOUT FOR A JOINT PROMOTION RUNNING THROUGHOUT JUNE AND JULY 2016!

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

BRAKING 15

An increasing number of the British population now choose to spend their holidays on road trips; in fact statistics reveal that around 60% of Britons chose ‘staycation’ holidays in the past year. With a growing inclination towards cycling as a holiday activity and vacationers carrying their pets with them, the spring and summer months see a substantial rise in the demand for travel and touring applications and cycling and pet travel accessories.

FPS offers all of these and more, creating a one-stop-shop opportunity for resellers to benefit from. Besides the obvious advantage of an excellent stockholding, FPS’ same/next-day delivery ensures fully stocked shelves, enhancing the scope of making a sale.

An established name in the travel and leisure sector, Mont Blanc offers a full and comprehensive range comprising cycle carriers, dog guards, roof boxes, roof bars and general accessories. The brand offers over 450 product references in stock at FPS, backed by a 3 year warranty and spares service, to cover most needs.

DOG GUARDS The dog guard range provides universal fitting options for various vehicle sizes. An easy-to-use twist locking mechanism on the Tube and Mesh dog guards enables easy and secure fitment, without the need of assistance or tools.

PET TRAVEL

FACTS

With highway codes necessitating proper animal restraint measures to counter distractions and injuries, the market for these products is huge. FPS presents an exclusive availability on RAC pet travel products to the Leisure and Automotive sectors. 49 products are split between two tiers, namely Standard and Advanced; the Advanced is synonymous with premium quality construction, long-lasting and easy-to-fit products.

>>> PET CARRIERS AND RESTRAINTS Available from both tiers, the carriers are available in plastic, fabric and fold-flat metal crates. The Advanced range includes an additional padded mattress and bandana. The restraints are designed from strong and lightweight materials and can double up as a walking harness too. All products come in a choice of sizes depending on the end-users’ requirement.

ROOF BARS The basis of all roof carrying systems, support a wide range of large, bulky loads and are the perfect partner for both roof mount cycle carriers and roof boxes. Mont Blanc has a solution for most cars, from the ever popular and straightforward steel Supra bars to the top of the range ReadyFit locking aluminium bars, part of the Easy Go™ ready-assembled family.

SUPRA ROOF BARS Supra has sold over 4 million units worldwide; the top 15 part numbers offer coverage of 16m+ vehicles in the UK car parc. This ensures a good stock profile for factors and resellers whilst also allowing for in-store demonstrations and interaction with target customers, convincing them

>>> PROTECTION Popular products such as seat covers, blankets and boot & bumper protectors, available from both tiers, offer protection to both the pets as well as the vehicles’ interior.

16 TRAVEL & LEISURE

to make a purchase.

The roof bars and cycle carriers are continuously updated to ensure fitment, Please see the F:Drive for vehicle specific application guides for both cars a

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

With a multi-branded offering comprising MONT BLANC, RAC and SPORT DIRECT, FPS gives VITAL NEWS readers the means to make the most of the travel accessory market this Spring/Summer.

CYCLE CARRIERS

Cycling and healthier lifestyle choices have become more commonplace and cycle accessories offer a profitable market sector.

Sport Direct™ offers a range of 300+ quality cycle accessories, comprising helmets, gloves, pumps, tyres and tubes, wheels, brakes and USB lights. The portfolio also includes the Aero Sport® range that offers a premium choice to users and AWE® – a range that enjoys some of the top brand positions in Europe. All these products conform to the highest EU quality standards.

A wide choice of rear, roof and towball mounted cycle carriers is available. The Super Rider+, Rear Trail and Rear Trek rear-mounted carriers all come with specific set-up and easy fitment settings for every vehicle. A range of universal roof mounted carriers is also available and many models are supplied with locks to secure the carrier to both the roof bars and the cycles.

HELMETS The extensive range caters for children all the way up to professional road-racers and conforms to EN 1078. All AWE® helmets are additionally backed by a 5 year manufacturer’s crash replacement warranty.

GLOVES

ROOF BOXES The Cargo range is made from UV-resistant ABS plastic and has a standard safe-locking system that prevents removal of the key unless the box is locked correctly. All boxes come with internal securing straps and all relevant fixings to secure the box onto roof bars, merging functionality with aesthetics.

Benefits:

• Fully assembled unit for quick installation • Durable steel manufacture • Compatible with most brands of travel and touring accessories • Abrasion-free, protection-coating on all parts

(*Available on the UK mainland only)

nd commercial vehicles.

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

Furthermore, Sport Direct™ offers a range of various pumps, brake components and quick charging daytime running lights.

SUMMARY

With same-day delivery on the top 15 parts, stock can be replenished without worrying about minimum order quantity or value*.

wherever possible on newly released vehicles.

With 13 different styles to choose from, the range caters for BMX, road cycles and mountain bikes. Available in both junior and adult sizes ranging from small to extra-large, the gloves are designed to absorb shocks and bumps, improve grip and wick away sweat.

Options are available with gel padding, adjustable straps, reflective piping and perforated palms, all designed to enhance the biking experience.

REFER TO PAG ES 2 AND 3 ON TH IS MONTH’S MAIN TEN & ACCESSORIE ANCE S FLYER FOR FURTHER DETAILS

• The market for travel and touring, cycling and pet travel accessories is seeing a significant yearly growth, making it a strong sector for Spring/ Summer.

• FPS supports this sector with a multi-branded and extensive portfolio that includes Mont Blanc, RAC and Sport Direct, among others.

• Strong stockholding and same/next-day delivery offer a one-stop-shop for resellers and factors.

• All products are catalogued with relevant details on the F:Drive for quick and easy access.

• Marketing & sales material and expert advice are provided in terms of sales support.

Please speak to your local FPS representative for stockist support or further information.

TRAVEL & LEISURE 17

THE SWEET SMELL OF SUCCESS VITAL NEWS checks out the new range of Gel Can air fresheners from JELLY BELLY.

The Jelly Belly branded portfolio of air freshener formats and fragrances is now well established in the UK.

The range encompasses:

• 13 x 3D Gel air fresheners • 6 x 2D air fresheners • 9 x Vent air fresheners • 4 x Pump Spray air fresheners

There are only a few choices of fragranced can air fresheners currently available in the market, offering generic fragrance and generic product design. The Gel Can range is competitively priced against other products available in this category.

SALES SUPPORT The range is available in a hanging blister or shelf-ready, mixed fragrance CDU of 12 units, in addition to an existing floor stand display unit (FSDU).

A new Jelly Belly Gel Can format has now been launched, which can be popped into the car’s cup holder, under the seat or used in any small space at home or in the office.

PRODUCT OVERVIEW The Jelly Belly Gel Can air fresheners are available in four exciting authentic fragrances: Very Cherry, Blueberry, Tutti-Fruitti and Lemon Drop. The product offers an alternative, discreet fragrance solution to consumers who may not want a hanging or vent mounted format. The new Gel Can air fresheners possess the sleek, colourful design properties complementary to the rest of the range, along with the fantastic Jelly Belly fragrances.

15115A 15115A

15114A

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Features The Gel Can offers a practical way to add continuous fragrance to vehicles and other small spaces.

• Non-liquid and therefore there are no spill worries • ‘Bean shaped’ vented lid with twist action for desired fragrance control • Lasts up to 30 days • Fits perfectly into cup holders • Outer pot can be re-used as a container, once fragrance is depleted 18 AIR FRESHENERS

To support the brand further, Jelly Belly will be releasing TV adverts this Spring, featuring the Jelly Belly membrane air freshener. This will complement existing print campaign activities in Auto Express, along with online and print campaigns by FPS. All of the new and existing formats and fragrances of Jelly Belly are available from FPS on next-day delivery and catalogued in the Maintenance & Accessories section of the F:Drive.

Please contact your local FPS representative for more information on the exciting range of Jelly Belly Gel Can air fresheners as well as other products in range.

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

A

DAY OUT!

VITAL NEWS’ guide to exciting, new ‘Days Out’ products from ROYAL At home out there and IRODA.

1. DAYTRIPPER PICNIC BAG 2. T REE TOPS MELAMINE DINING SET 3. ACRYLIC WINE GLASSES 4. PICNIC COOLER TOTE 5. ROLL UP PICNIC BLANKET 6. ACRYLIC TUMBLERS 7. P ICNIC COOLER RUCKSACK

With an increasingly higher number of people choosing to stay in the UK rather than go abroad during summer, not only has the domestic camping and caravanning market seen a boost of 7% (Year-on-Year 2015 v 2014), there has also been a substantial increase in the number of people choosing to go on day trips closer to home.

ROYAL AT HOME OUT THERE Targeting this increase in ‘day-trippers’, alongside its 2016 theme: ‘A breath of fresh air’, Royal has introduced a portfolio of stylish, contemporary picnic wares that seamlessly combines functionality with aesthetics. The ability to keep food and drink fresh is of paramount importance when spending time away from home and Royal – a proven brand offering innovative products for the Leisure market – has gone through extensive research to be able to cater for this segment.

BRAND BENEFITS The new style of packaging with full colour boxes, in line with numerous high-street brands, adds to the quality of on-shelf display.

Reaching out to customers through FPS’ monthly Leisure flyers and a brand new catalogue, the products have already received extremely positive feedback from the recently concluded Camping, Caravanning and Motorhome Show. The Royal brand aims to continue with consumer-based marketing and brand exposure for the rest of the year.

NEW AND EXCLUSIVE To complement the ‘Days Out’ offering, FPS has introduced two O-Grill fully portable, clamshell design LPG BBQs, perfect for those ‘Al Fresco’ dining opportunities.

Features include: From acrylic wine glasses and exclusive melamine dining sets, right through to in-house designed bespoke picnic and cool bags, Royal addresses each product with the same care and diligence that goes into the design and production of its larger items (see image above).

While ensuring that each product is functional, portable and adaptable to the requirements of the end-user, the picnic bags bear the exclusive, signature crown design and colours of the brand, offering a strong brand identity. The acrylic and melamine products have been segmented into two tiers of popular and premium ranges, the latter appealing to the more discerning diners. The range of powered coolers gives the option of gas, mains or 12V operation, providing a convenient solution in any and every location.

• Large cast iron non-stick cooking area • Easy to clean and low maintenance design with removable fat collection tray • Long life stainless steel burner • Adjustable heat with piezo ignition O-Grill 900T additionally offers a temperature gauge for accuracy and an additional large domed lid for cooking larger foods. Both products conform to the current CE specifications and standards on portable gas products.

The fresh designs have been created, keeping in mind the most popular patterns and colours for the sector for 2016, so products can be matched with the décor of the motorhomes and caravans. All of this creates a great business opportunity for re-sellers and dealers.

Speak to your local FPS or Leisure representative for more details or to gather stockist information.

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

TRAVEL & LEISURE 19

IAAF UPDATE Wendy Williamson offers a detailed update of what's in store for 2016.

To the Aftermarket, The IAAF is always anticipating potential threats to the independent automotive aftermarket, and with plenty of issues continuing to surface, from the government’s plans to extend the deadline of a vehicle’s first MOT to the rapid development of automotive technology, 2016 is no exception. The IAAF has already begun carrying out activities to combat unwelcome legislation affecting the industry, such as fighting George Osborne’s proposals in his 2015 summer budget speech to extend the deadline on MOTs for new cars and motorbikes from three to four years.

Although the government is claiming that motorists could save up to £100m a year, IAAF strongly believes that this could lead to a high increase in road accidents and fatalities, as motorists will be more inclined to postpone necessary maintenance work for a further year. IAAF together with AALG (Automotive Aftermarket Liaison Group), continues to lobby to reverse any such proposals to ensure the safety of all road users.

Another serious challenge to the aftermarket is ‘developing technology’. Although its rise has been beneficial to some aspects, it has also brought various apprehensions. Ford has announced that 40% of its new cars will have electric or hybrid engines within the next four years. As raised at the IAAF’s Annual Conference in December 2015, the aftermarket needs to be prepared for the rapid increase of hybrid cars. At the conference, Dr. Ben Wood from the University of Warwick explored technology’s effect on the independent aftermarket with his intriguing topic: ‘How far away is the 3D printed car?’ Wood emphasised how 3D printing offers something beyond the usual manufacturing process, focusing on the many benefits and opportunities that it provides. While the process is not quite ready at present, Wood encouraged the aftermarket to not let the efficient and cost-effective opportunity slip by when it comes round.

One of the most serious technological threats the aftermarket faces is the ‘connected car’. While the IAAF supports the introduction of eCall – which will be mandatory on all new cars in 2018 – to help emergency services get to road accidents faster, its area of concern is how vehicle manufacturers (VMs) could utilise this technology to establish a wider telematics platform. VMs could potentially be able to communicate directly with the vehicle and gain a competitive advantage. The challenge for the aftermarket is to ensure independent operators continue to have unmonitored remote communication with the vehicle and its data through safe and secure means.

Finally, IAAF has also called for evidence from Vauxhall who has blamed the aftermarket for the outbreak of fires in Zafira B vehicles. Numerous garages have assured that they do not carry out a soldered repair for this scenario as Vauxhall has insinuated; with anecdotal evidence proving that several fires broke out in Zafira few years before they had ever been serviced, Vauxhall needs to provide a clearer explanation.

With the IAAF prepared for a busy year ahead, the industry can keep up to date with its activities on its new website: www.iaaf.co.uk.

Regards,

Wendy IAAF Chief Executive

The Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF) champions the interests and protects the rights of the independent aftermarket.

20 IAAF

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

THE SAFE WAY TO REMOVE RUST EVAPO-RUST speaks to VITAL NEWS about its new bio-degradable rust remover.

The formation of rust is not only unsightly; it can eventually cause irreparable damage to the surface of the object affected. Although rust removal can be a challenging task, it’s neither impossible nor does it require hours of sanding with abrasives or the use of harsh chemicals.

There are several chemical based products on the market that contain some form of acid, typically phosphoric acid that can be used for rust removal. Whilst being quick and effective, these can be harmful to the user and are not safe for the environment.

HOW TO USE 1

Pre-clean item to remove oil and dirt. Pour a sufficient amount of EVAPO-RUST in a container to completely cover the rusted object.

2

EVAPO-RUST IS DIFFERENT Evapo-Rust is an environmentally safe, water-based rust remover which works on all types of mild steel and iron. The result of extensive research, Evapo-Rust offers a quick, simple and effective way of restoring anything rusty, from automotive parts and components, rusted tools, cast iron radiators through to BBQ grills, leaving a ‘like-new’ condition and finish.

Rinse and immerse the rusty object in the solution and leave it for up to 2 hours for light to medium rust, or overnight for extremely heavy rust. Check progress periodically.

3

Once rust is removed, rinse item with water. Repeat process if deep rust remains in pits, until all of it is gone. Un-rusted metal will not be affected.

NOTE: This stage is very important in getting the best results

4

Before

After

Features:

• Constituted of non-toxic, non-corrosive, non-flammable ingredients • Safe on skin • Requires no special equipment, since it does not contain acids, alkalis or petroleum solvents • No fumes or bad odours, non-flammable, no VOC's • Biodegradable, water soluble • Removes even heavy rust completely • Will not harm un-rusted steel, safe on other metals • Will not affect plastic, PVC and most paints • Works at room temperature • Can stop rust from reforming for up to 4 weeks THEORY - HOW IT WORKS Evapo-Rust works by bonding to iron molecules. While it can remove iron from iron oxide, it is too weak to remove iron from steel where the molecules are held much more strongly. Once removed, Evapo-Rust remains water soluble, freeing the bonding agent to remove more iron from rust.

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

Dip the item back into a new container of Evapo-Rust* to prevent re-rusting. Allow the item to air dry to prevent rust for up to four weeks. *Reuse Evapo-Rust to remove further rust but to prevent re-rusting, a new one should be preferred.

Evapo-Rust can be re-used continually until performance drops and the solution turns completely black. Only the iron content of the solution dictates the disposal method, since it does not contain any toxins. In most cases, it can be safely put down the drain.

1. C705 (3.78 litre) 2. C700 (946 ml) 3. C710 (18.9 litre) Evapo-Rust is now available from FPS and catalogued under the Maintenance & Accessories section on the F:Drive. Speak to your local FPS representative for stockist information on the product.

RUST TREATMENT 21

PRODUCT INDEX ACCESSORIES & STYLING EXTERIOR Exhaust Fittings Horns L Plates Motorcycle Accessories Mud Flaps Side Steps Stickers

BRAKING DRY BRAKING Brake Discs Brake Drums Brake Fitting Kits Brake Pads Brake Shoes Brake Shoe Pre-assembled Wear Leads Adjusters

Wheel Locks

WET BRAKING

Wheel Trims

Adjusters Brake Hoses Brake Master Cylinders Brake Pipes Brake Power Regulators Calipers Carriers Repair Kits Servos Wheel Cylinders

INTERIOR 12V/24V Adaptors Air Fresheners Booster Seats/Comfort Boot Liners Mats Seat Covers Seat Belts Security Locks Sport Harnesses Storage & Organisers Tax Disc Holders Window Film

AUDIO & VISUAL TECHNOLOGY FITTING SOLUTIONS Acoustic Cloth & Carpet Action Camcorders Aerials & Adaptors Audio Head Units Bluetooth速 Speakers DAB Radio Solutions Mobile Phone Accessories Phone & MP3 Connectivity Sound Proofing Sub-boxes & Accessories Wiring & Cables

BODY COMPONENTS Door Handles Marker Boards Mirror Glass Mirror Motors & Heaters Security Central Locking Devices Striker Pins Tailgate and Bonnet Struts Window Regulators Windscreen Washer Pumps Wiper Arms Wiper Blades

22 PRODUCT INDEX

CAR MAINTENANCE EXTERIOR Car Covers Door Handles Fuel Caps Heated Lenses Mirror Complete Units Mirror Covers Mirror Glass Striker Pins Windscreen Washer Pumps Windscreen Wiper Motors Wiper Blades Wiper Jets & Piping Wiper Linkage

INTERIOR Bonnet Struts Locking Buttons Rear View Mirrors Tailgate Struts Window Regulators Window Winders

HYGIENE & PROTECTION Cleaning Chemicals & Equipment Clothing (inc. Hi-Vis Work Wear) Coats & Jackets Face, Head, Ear & Eye Protection Footwear Gloves Hand Cleaners Paper Rolls Pest Control Safety Signs Spill Control Toilet Rolls & Hand Towels Wipes

LUBES & FLUIDS AdBlue速 Antifreeze Brake & Clutch Fluid De-Icer De-Ionised Water Easy Start Fuel Additives Greases Hydraulic Fluid Lubricants Oil Additives Oils Radiator Additives Screen Wash Transmission Fluid

SURFACE TREATMENTS Bodyfillers Paints & Finishing Primers

WORKSHOP Abrasives Axle Stands Battery Chargers Booster Cables Car Ramps Consumables Creepers Foot Pumps Funnels & Measuring Jugs Grinding Paste Jacks (Bottle, Scissor, Trolley) Protective Mats & Covers Rust Care Sealants & Adhesives Tyre Gauges Welding Accessories White Spirit

CARAVAN & CAMPING CARAVAN & CAMPING Cooking Furniture Ground Coverings Hardware Housewares Lighting Satellite & TV Security & Safety Spares Steps Storage Bags & Covers Tents & Accessories Water & Sanitation

ELECTRICAL ENGINE MANAGEMENT Air Mass Sensors Air Pumps & Valves Boost Pressure Valves Crankshaft/Camshaft Sensors

EGR Valves Engine Position Sensors Idle Control Valves Injection Valves Knock Sensors Lambda Sensors Map Sensors Pressure Converters Solenoids Switchover Valves Throttle Bodies

IGNITION Condensers Contact Sets Distributor Caps Glow Plugs Glow Plug Relays Ignition Coils & Modules Ignition Leads Points Rotor Arms Spark Plugs Traditional Ignition

LIGHTING Bulbs Bulb Holders Fog lamps Headlamps Indicators Lens Levellers Rear Lamps

STORAGE & TRANSFER Alternators Batteries Distributors Inverters Starter Motors Wiper Motors

SWITCHES & SENSORS ABS Sensors Air & Pressure Sensors Brake Light Switches Clutch Control Switches Column Switches Door Light Switches Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors Exhaust Gas Pressure Sensors Gearbox Sensors Oil Pressure Switches Radiator Fan Switches Reverse Light Switches Temperature Switches Coolant Temperature Sensors Throttle Position Sensors Tyre Pressure Monitoring Sensors Windscreen Washer Level Sensors

ENGINE & FUEL BOTTOM END Bearings Core Plugs Gaskets

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42

On these pages we’ve set out an alphabetical listing to help you find the item you need quickly and efficiently from the 256,000+ products we list, covering over 116,000 stock lines. If you can’t see what you need – ask your local branch!

Oil Pumps Oil Seals Oil Sumps Oil Sump Plugs Piston Rings Pistons & Liners Starter Ring Gear

ENGINE TIMING Drive Belts – Auxiliary Flexible Couplings – Auxiliary Idlers & Pulleys Industrial Belts Micro-V Stretch Kits – Auxiliary Overrunning Alternator Pulleys – Auxiliary Tensioners – Auxiliary Tensioner Kits Timing Belts Timing Belt Kits Timing Belt Water Pump Kits Timing Chains Timing Chain Kits Torsion Vibration Damper – Auxiliary

EXTERIOR Fuel Caps

FILTRATION AIR Air Filters Cabin Filters

FILTRATION FLUID Fuel Filters Hydraulic Filters Oil Filters Transmission Filters Water Filters Fuel Diesel Injector Diesel Pumps Fuel Pumps Fuel Regulators Fuel Tank Sender Units High Pressure Pumps Injectors In-line Fuel Pumps Mechanical Fuel Pumps Pressure Regulators Turbos Turbo Hoses

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

EXHAUST SYSTEMS EXHAUST PARTS Catalytic Converters Catalytic Converter Fitting Kit Diesel Particulate Filter Exhaust Pipe Exhaust Universal Parts Exhaust Fittings Front Pipes Inter Pipe-Silencer Rear Silencer

FILTRATION FILTRATION Air Filters Cabin Air Filters Fuel Filters Hydraulic Filters Oil Filters

OFFICE SUPPLIES CONSUMABLES Data Storage Food & Drinks IT Accessories Paper Post & Packaging Supplies Printing Equipment & Consumables Stationery

STEERING & SUSPENSION STEERING Axial Joints Power Steering Pumps Power Steering Racks Steering Box Steering Couplings Steering Rack Electric Steering Rack Gaiters Steering Rack Manual Tie Rod Assembly Track Rod Ends

SUSPENSION Ball Joints Bushes Coils Springs Control Arms Engine Mountings Leaf Springs Link Arms Shock Absorbers Shock Absorber Adaptor & Protection Kits Stabiliser Links Suspension Kits Suspension Sphere Suspension Struts

Top Mounts Wishbones

THERMAL CONTROL AIR CON Condensers Compressors Gas R134 Leak Detector Dye PAG Oil Service Parts

COOLING Coolant Flange Cooling Water Pipes Radiator Fans Expansion Tanks Oil Coolers Heater Resistors Heater Valves Hose Clips & Cable Ties Hoses Intercoolers Interior Blowers Radiator Caps Radiators Thermostat & Gaskets Viscous Clutch Coupling Water Pumps Water Pump Kits

ENGINE AUXILIARY BELTS Drive Belts Industrial Belts Micro-V Belts Micro-V Belt Kits

TOOLS TOOLS Belt Length Finders Brake Tools Clutch Tools DMF Testing Tools DSG Transmission Filler Tools Engine Tools Glow Plug Removal Tools Hand Tools Oil Filter Wrenches Stretch Fit Belt Tools Timing Belt Tools & Engine Tools Timing Chain Tools Wheel Bearing Kit Tools

TRANSMISSION CLUTCH HYDRAULIC Clutch Hose Clutch Master Cylinder Clutch Slave Cylinder Concentric Cylinder (Carm)

Parts for HGVs and Pre-1980s cars added!

CLUTCH Bearing Hub Units Clutch Bearing Clutch Cover Clutch Kits Clutch Plate Constant Velocity Boot Constant Velocity Joint Drive Shaft Drivetrain Seals Dual Mass Flywheels Flexible Couplings Flywheel Gearbox Seals Pilot Bearing Drivetrain Prop Shaft Centre Bearing Universal Joint Wheel Bearing Kit Wheel Hub Seals

CLUTCH PARTS Clutch Bearings Clutch Cables Clutch Kits Clutch Ratchet Repair Kits Concentric Slave Cylinders (CARM) Dual Mass Flywheels Flywheels Pilot Bearings Speedometer Cables

DRIVETRAIN Bearing Hub Units Constant Velocity Boots Constant Velocity Joints Drive Shaft Flexible Couplings Half Shaft Bearings Prop Shaft Centre Bearings Universal Joints Wheel Bearing Kits

TRAVEL & TOURING ACCESSORIES Bicycle Carriers Bicycle Accessories Dehumidifiers Dog Guards Domestic Batteries European Travel Products Fire Extinguishers First Aid Kits Petrol & Diesel Cans Roof Boxes Roof Racks Tow Bar Fitting Kits Tow Bars Trailer & Towing Accessories

VALETING ACCESSORIES Cleaning Products Polish Soft Top Restoration Valeting Products

VITAL NEWS ISSUE 42 PRODUCT INDEX 23

COMPETITION TIME WITH TRW

WIN A B ARBECUE!

Just in time for the start of the summer, TRW Aftermarket is offering one lucky Vital News reader the chance to win a Weber Gas Barbecue.

TRW Aftermarket is the market leading specialist in the world for OEM quality braking systems, with a brake pad range in excess of 1,800 references and 1,200 brake discs – both covering more than 98% of the European vehicle parc. Paired with a reputation for its engineering quality, innovative design and stringent testing procedures, you can rely on TRW, the independent aftermarketleading manufacturer, to strengthen your business.

Innovations such as DTEC demonstrate how TRW leads the way.

The advanced, low dust, ceramic formulation offers the same high performance as standard TRW brake pads but with 45% less rim surface dust.

FEATURES: > 3 STAINLESS STEEL BURNERS > PORCELAIN ENAMEL FINISH

To be in with a chance of winning this exciting Weber Spirit Classic E310 3 Burner Gas Barbecue, simply mark up any five differences on the photos below and send it back to FPS.

> CROSSOVER IGNITION SYSTEM

 T RW Competition, c/o FPS Bridge House,

3 Timothy’s Bridge Road, Stratford-upon-Avon CV37 9NQ

 marketing@fpsdistribution.co.uk  01789 413039 NAME: JOB TITLE: COMPANY: TEL NO: ACCOUNT NO:

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Have you spotted any gaps in our range? Perhaps a new product area or an application we don't yet cover? Please let us know and we will look into it.

Terms & Conditions – 1. Open to all FPS account customers that are resident in the UK. 2. Only one competition entry per person. 3. All competition entries must be received by 20/05/2016. 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 prize. 5. Images are for illustration purposes only and actual prize may differ from that shown. 6. FPS reserves the right to withdraw the competition at any time without prior notice. 7. There are no cash alternatives to the prizes offered. 8. FPS may substitute a prize on offer for an item of equal or greater value. 9. The judge’s decision is final and no correspondence will be entered into. 10. The winning entry will be drawn on 23/05/2016.

If you have suggestions for parts that are not currently in our portfolio, please email us at 360@fpsdistribution.co.uk FPS Barking FPS Birmingham FPS Bristol FPS Cardiff FPS Charlton FPS Colchester FPS Glasgow

Tel: 020 8477 4560 Tel: 0121 359 8991 Tel: 0117 971 0956 Tel: 029 2046 2424 Tel: 020 8477 4560 Tel: 01206 85 5211 Tel: 0141 552 0077

FPS Leeds FPS Leicester FPS Liverpool FPS Luton FPS Maidstone FPS Manchester FPS Newcastle

For technical bulletins, COSHH/MSDS sheets and technical information such as troubleshooting guides and videos, please visit www.partinfo.co.uk Tel: 0113 259 7770 Tel: 0116 247 0203 Tel: 0151 207 8170 Tel: 01582 87 6699 Tel: 020 8477 4560 Tel: 0161 876 5677 Tel: 0191 224 2200

FPS Nottingham FPS Preston FPS Reading FPS Sheffield FPS Southampton FPS Staples Corner FPS Leisure

Tel: 0115 964 7250 Tel: 01772 31 1444 Tel: 0118 935 1313 Tel: 0114 261 5012 Tel: 023 8021 1213 Tel: 020 8477 4560 Tel: 01789 41 7555

Order online at:

www.fdrive.co.uk

Prices are accurate at time of print and are subject to change without prior notice. All products are available whilst stocks last and subject to availability. All prices exclude VAT. Free delivery is subject to terms and conditions and applies to UK mainland only. Pictures shown are for illustrative purposes only and may not be representative of actual products or vehicles. FPS is not endorsed by or connected with any vehicle manufacturer stated. E&OE