Gt spring 2014

SPRING 2014

BRINGING INNOVATION TO THE SURFACE ™

PPG. The World leader in performance coatings

Delivering World Brands

Garage Trader Dog Trust_layout 21/02/2014 09:58 Page 1

Man’s best friend?

The bond between man and his faithful friend is something that has to be seen to be believed. But it’s not only Sparky here who feels that way. Up and down the country, thousands of garage professionals feel the same way about NGK. They won’t fit anything else because they’ve come to trust NGK to deliver a quality product that they can rely on. No matter what. That’s why we’ve become the No.1 choice in the UK Aftermarket. NGK. The garage technician’s best friend. Now anyone fancy a game of fetch?

FITTED AS ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT AROUND THE WORLD

Alfa Romeo Aston Martin Audi Bentley BMW Chevrolet Chrysler Citroen Daewoo Daihatsu

Daimler Ferrari Fiat Ford Honda Hyundai Isuzu Jaguar Jeep Kia

Lamborghini Lancia Land Rover Lexus Lotus Maserati Maybach Mazda McLaren Mercedes Benz

Mini Mitsubishi Nissan Perodua Peugeot Proton Renault Rolls Royce Seat Skoda

Join us on facebook.com/ngksparkplugsuk or at twitter.com/ngk_uk for motorsport news, competitions and more, to fire us a question about NGK or a technical query about our products. We’re waiting...

Smart Suzuki Subaru Toyota Vauxhall Volvo VW

www.ngkntk.co.uk

CONTENTSGT

SPRING 2014

message from...

F

igures released at the end of January 2014 by both the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) and the Society of the Irish Motor Industry (SIMI) make for optimistic reading. For the first time since 2008, the motor trade both north and south finally appear to be coming out of recession. Figures released by the SMMT showed that the Northern Ireland new car market improved by 19 per cent, while in the Republic of Ireland sales were up by an even more impressive 33 per cent. While it is clear that the motor trade is not fully recovered yet, it seems fair to say that the worst is now over. We all hope this good news continues throughout the year.

Pat Burns

subscriptions: (UK £18.00 Outside UK £27.50)

"

"

the editor

6

news...

6

NW Motor Factors receives GROUPAUTO UK runner-up award

34 special features...

22 Is it time for an all-

Ireland approach

to tyre recycling?

30

A recent report links one of five accidents to faulty suspension.

34 Timing Belt changes for

the wary!

30

22

people...

19 Future proof your

business by getting

your apprentices

properly trained.

46 In the Driver’s Seat:

Sean Bradley of the NI

Bodyshop alliance.

46 TO ADVERTISE IN THE MAGAZINE CALL: (028) 9078 3200 REGARDING EDITORIAL CALL: (028) 9078 3220

Greer Publications © 2014. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form, or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, or otherwise without the prior permission of Greer Publications.

General Manager Eileen Wilson (eileenwilson@greerpublications.com) I Editor Pat Burns (patburns@greerpublications.com) Art Editor Helen Wright I Publishers James & Gladys Greer I Designed & Produced by Greer Publications Design

GARAGE

TRADER

Greer Publications Ltd, 5B Edgewater Business Park, Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, BT3 9JQ Tel: 028 9078 3200 Fax: 028 9078 3210

garagetrader - 3

GTNEWS

Large Increase in New Car Sales North and South

Alan Nolan SIMI Director General

N

ew car registrations rose steeply in January 2014 with Northern Ireland seeing a rise of 19 percent while Southern Ireland dealers enjoyed a 33 percent increase.

The new car registrations in Northern Ireland totalled 6,661 in January 2014, a rise of 19.84 per cent on the same month last year.

The top seller in Northern Ireland was the Ford Fiesta with the Seat Ibiza second and the Volkswagen Polo third. This improvement in consumer confidence first started appearing in the final quarter of 2013, with new car sales eventually showing a 10.4 per cent increase after a lacklustre start to the year.

John Leech, KPMG’s UK Head of Automotive, commented on the January UK car sales. “As expected, the recent strong UK car sales were maintained in January driven largely by cheap finance offered by car manufacturers but also bolstered by

continuing PPI claim payouts and substantial fuel cost savings available from switching to a new car. These elements are likely to remain in place in 2014 and as such, we forecast that new car sales will grow by 5 percent during 2014.

“Car sales also grew across the EU, with sales up in Germany by 7 percent, Italy by 3 percent and France by 0.5 percent. The UK car market is almost back at its long-run average, but the EU market is only at three-quarters of its long-run average, as such there is great potential for UK car factories to increase their exports to the EU during 2014. The recent appreciation of Sterling compared to the Euro is really the only headwind facing them at the moment and we remain bullish that UK car production will grow by 8 percent this year.”

In Southern Ireland, figures released by the SIMI, 22,927 new cars were bought in January, up 33% on last year (17,242) and 8% up on 2012

(21,309).

Alan Nolan, SIMI Director General commented, “It was clear in December that there was a strong demand for new ‘141’ registration cars with dealers reporting far better levels of activity in the lead-up to January. Feedback from dealers suggests that consumer interest is continuing with a noticeable increase in showroom footfall and there certainly is a sense of optimism in dealerships that hasn’t been apparent for many years.

“There may have been some builtup demand from last year and the earlier Budget may also have helped people to make the decision to buy.

There is also a greater availability of affordable finance and an overall improvement in the confidence among Irish consumers.

“It is very early days so we are still cautious in relation to where the market might end up this year but there is a strong sense that we’re now

above the bottom and beginning to move upwards. It’s nice to be able to say that for the first time since 2008.”

Demand for used cars in dealerships has also been strong, while the supply of locally sourced cars remains limited.

This is reflected in the increase in imported used cars, which show an increase of 35% on 2013 and 39% over 2012. Around 50% of imported used cars are recorded as being registered by motor dealers.

Commercial vehicles have also seen improved levels of activity in January with sales of LCVs (vans) up 42% on 2013 and 29% on 2012, while HGVs (trucks) are 31% up on 2013 and 19% better than in 2012.

Whereas the new car market tends to be a sign of consumer confidence, the commercial vehicle market is more of an indication of what is happening in the economy, confirming a noticeable increase in activity among small and medium businesses. ■

The Ford Fiesta topped the sales chart

New marker in red and green diesel T

he UK and Ireland governments are to introduce a new marker that will help tackle fuel fraud.

The marker will help HM Revenue and Customs (HMRC) and the Irish Revenue Commissioners tackle the criminal market in off-road diesel, marked with a red dye in the UK and green in Ireland, and also kerosene primarily used for heating oil.

Seamus Leheny Policy & Membership Relations Manager of the Freight Transport Association (FTA) of Northern Ireland said: “FTA welcomes any effort that can help reduce or eliminate fuel laundering, and the announcement of this 4 - garagetrader

marker we are sure will go a long way to help.”

HMRC has reported that it is stepping up its fight against fraud, stating that the new marker will make fuel much harder for fraudsters to ‘launder’ and sell on at a profit, adding that the introduction of a more robust marker will ensure it is far harder to remove.

Whilst welcoming the introduction of the marker, FTA also went on to voice a word of caution in the use of the initiative stating that “any chemical solutions to fuel laundering are ultimately prone to chemical counter-measures

by fuel launderers.” FTA has long campaigned against fuel laundering outlining the enormous financial loss to HMRC and the Irish Revenue through the use of illicit and washed diesel, saying that as a result the issue is causing huge damage to compliant operators.

Mr Leheny added: “Fuel represents approximately 40 per cent of operating costs for transport operators hence legitimate operators in Northern Ireland are at a distinct disadvantage when competing against those that illegally use laundered diesel.”

The Association outlined

suggested accompanying measures that they considered are also required: • Removal of haulage/passenger licences from operators found using laundered fuel • Confiscation and sale of any vehicles found using laundered fuel, even where it is a first-time offence • Confiscation and sale of land/ premises where fuel laundering is taking place, even where it is a firsttime offence The use of illicit diesel is estimated to be 12-per cent of the market share in Northern Ireland compared to about two per cent in the rest of the UK. ■

Temple Auto Salvage Vehicle dismantlers Damaged cars bought & sold - Recovery Service - Covered Storage Dismantling all types of modern cars Temple Auto Salvage is a vehicle dismantler and approved ELV centre. We are also one of Northern Ireland’s leading car salvage dealers located near Lisburn. It was established in 1970 by Hector Neill and is still a family run business today. We handle all types of motor salvage, and can deliver vehicles, salvaged engines and used car parts throughout the world. We have 2 depots, in Co. Down we can offer a fast and reliable response to any situation. We have storage for up to 800 cars and covered secure storage for insurance companies where cars can be inspected.

Hundreds of modern vehicles currently in stock changing daily We are now dismantling a wide range of 4X4’s & vans Next day nationwide delivery Vehicle parts call 028 9263 8359 Vehicle sales call 028 9756 3804 More info can be found on our website www.templeautosalvage.com

Temple Auto Salvage is one of N.I. leading car recycling companies. The company first specialised in vehicle recovery and the re-sale of damaged repairable vehicles. As the company has gone from strength to strength and the workforce has expanded, we have added dismantling and recycling of vehicles to our wide range of services, and have now an EBay shop which is updated daily.

GTNEWS

NW Motor Factors receives GROUPAUTO UK runner-up award N

orth West Motor Factors recently received the UK Automotive Member of the Year runner-up title at the GroupAuto trade show which was attended by 142 different motor factors from around the UK. The award was presented by Jim Mazza, GroupAuto Managing Director to Colm Donaghy who received the award with his son Bryan.

North West Motor Factors operate three motor factors in Limavady, Coleraine and on the Springtown Industrial Estate in Derry. Receiving the award, Colm Donaghy paid tribute to all his staff in the three branches, commenting that it was an award for the whole company who had worked so hard to achieve the accolade.

GroupAuto continues to expand the product offering to its members with the announcement that it has extended its existing relationship with Valeo Service UK, to include an additional supply agreement for its Bradford-based national distribution centre.

The deal with give GroupAuto members, and therefore their many workshop customers, immediate access to Valeo’s top 250 part references for its highly regarded clutch components. In addition, the agreement means that alongside the other products that the distribution centre stocks, members can also check product availability and place orders through

Colm and Bryan Donaghy of NW Motor Factors with Jim Mazza, Managing Director of GroupAuto

G-NET, the group’s online electronic trading system.

During 2013, the level of business and the number of products held in stock grew signifigantly as more members began to experience the benefits

the distribution centre provides them and how it complements the group’s existing approved supplier agreements. More trade names will be joining the GroupAuto network in 2014.

Osram launch new colourful wireless ambient lighting kits

I

Supporting Independent Garages across UK and Ireland

Quality OE Car Parts Guaranteed

Find your local GROUPAUTO Motorfactor at:

www.groupauto.co.uk/distributors 6 - garagetrader

nterior car styling has taken on a new glow with the first wireless LED ambient kits from Osram. Drivers can express their mood and sense of style with these unique rechargeable kits; featuring seven selectable colours and four dimming settings for inside the car and in the door sills.

The LED ambient interior kit comes complete with a wall washer, two spotlights and two bendable fibre-optic light guides. Each element draws out the different contours of the car interior, including centre consoles, walls, floors and ceilings.

The second kit in the LED ambient range is the Door Entry Ledge, for the door sills; which can be installed to automatically illuminate when the car door is opened. Also featuring Osram RGB LEDs to enable seven colour selections and four dimming settings, the door entry package can be mounted with strong magnets so they can be easily removed when recharging is required.

The unique feature of both LEDambient kits is that they are rechargeable via a USB cable. The average battery lifetime after a full charge is approximately 48 hours of continuous use, but with interval usage this can be up to 10 weeks.

GT

More Motor Factors join FG7 T

hree of Northern Ireland’s top motor factors joined the FG7 buying group in January 2014.

The three new members are • Lagan Motor Factors, Lisburn, (Proprietor Alan Graham); • Autoparts Direct, Belfast; (Proprietor Paddy Cunningham) and • Motor & Commercial Parts, Dungannon, (Proprietor Wesley Forde).

FG7 was formed as an independent buying group in October 2000. It is supported by over thirty industry leading suppliers, the group has evolved and changed to meet the demands of a market which diversifies daily.

In 2010 the group took possession of a thirty thousand square foot warehouse property ideally located in the centre of Northern Ireland, in Cookstown. As well as the best quality and pricing, this affords members access to the product on the same day, allowing members the ability to provide unrivalled service to their customers.

As a group, FG7 offers a complete range of quality products backed up by dependably high service levels across all counties of Northern Ireland. Behind the scenes and supporting customers are the most up-to-date IT systems, ensuring stock and pricing is as sharp as can be.

FG7 has a number of motor factors joining in the spirng and further details will follow in the next edition of Garage Trader. ■

All products are available in trade sizes i.e.

5L, 25L, 205L and 1000L

email or call us to receive a trade price list: 34 Old Kilmore Road, Moira, BT67 0LZ T: 07973156353 e:info@glimmermannproducts.co.uk • w:www.glimmermannproducts.co.uk

garagetrader - 7

GTKARKRAFT & FREEMAX

Karkraft add Fremax Brake Pads to range

K

arkraft are delighted to welcome FREMAX Brake pads to their already extensive car parts range. A leading international brand, FREMAX produces easy to fit Brake Pads that offer superb performance under the harshest conditions.

FREMAX brake pads are manufactured using the same positive molding process utilised

by Original Equipment suppliers.

The molding uses extreme pressure to compress the friction material and bond it to the backing plate.

This process assures consistent friction material density throughout the pad, resulting in even wear and performance characteristics throughout the life of the brake pad.

The main causes for customer returns are noise and vibration.

FREMAX have recognised these problems and are constantly improving its products to eliminate these issues. FREMAX brake friction features either precision cut or shaved backing plates and mechanically attached shims where required.

These small details ensure proper fitment in the caliper and virtually eliminate noise associated with pad

vibration. All FREMAX brake pad friction formulations are asbestos free and are available in a specific low metallic asbestos free compound.

In addition all FREMAX brake pads are scorched to accelerate the break-in process. This OEM process enhances key friction performance levels. Scorching raises initial cold effectiveness, stabilizes friction levels right out of the box, provides consistent performance across the entire operating range.

During the scorching phase; each brake pad surface is super-heated to simulate the initial break-in process performed by installation technicians.

This additional step removes any uncured bonding agents eliminating the need for initial break-in and reducing noise caused by pad glazing.

Scorching thermally conditions the pad material which yields a more consistent and higher friction level right out of the box. Scorching benefits the vehicle owner by promoting a more complete bed-in of new pads and increasing the effective stopping power from the first stop.

For further information regarding FREMAX products and offers contact the Karkraft sales team on (028) 9085 5555 or email sales@karkraftni.co.uk ■

FREMAX… The New Name for Brake Discs Team P R Reilly & Karkraft add FREMAX Brake Discs to range

A

s 2014 gets into full swing Team PR Reilly & Karkraft are delighted to welcome FREMAX Brake discs to their already extensive car parts range. A leading international brand, FREMAX produces easy to fit Brake Discs that offer superb performance under the harshest conditions. The innovative manufacturer integrates a higher percentage of carbon into the disc meaning increased durability and a better all-round performance.

That’s why they have been chosen by Porsche Cup Cars.

FREMAX Brake Discs are ready for action straight from the box. They are faster to fit than existing discs and offer excellent friction rates from the very beginning. With no wash up necessary this is one range of Brake Discs that will save you both time and money! FREMAX products leave the plant in exclusive award winning 8 - garagetrader

packaging, made from 100% recyclable material. Additional of being environmental friendly, this package improves logistics performance in terms of safety, easy handling and storage. It also gives much more protection to the product with storage.

FREMAX Brake Discs are known internationally for performance that exceeds OEM requirements and with the special introductory deal currently being offered by Team PR Reilly or Karkraft they certainly won’t break the bank.

For further information regarding FREMAX products and offers – contact: Team PR Reilly sales team on 01 8320006 or email sales@team.ie Karkraft sales team on (028) 9085 5555 or email sales@karkraftni.co.uk ■

GTNEWS

Each Air Frost day costs insurance sector a cool million T

he vehicle repair sector sees approximately 1,000 additional private motor claim jobs go through bodyshops as a result of ‘air frost day’ insurance pay outs. On average over £1,300,000 is spent on repairs every time the UK is hit by an air frost day, according to advanced claims forecasting analysis commissioned by Audatex, a leading provider of integrated motor claims solutions.

The air temperature needs to be below the freezing point of water at a height of at least one metre above the ground to be defined as air frost. This creates a number of challenges for motorists. For example, if it has been raining or drizzling, black ice may form which can create hazardous driving conditions. Visibility may also be hindered through ice on the car windscreen and the rear window if

GROUPAUTO Welcomes Valeo Service UK

G

ROUPAUTO continues to expand the product offering to its members with the announcement that it has extended its existing relationship with Valeo Service UK, to include an additional supply agreement for its Bradford-based national distribution centre.

The deal will give GROUPAUTO members, and therefore their many workshop customers, immediate access to Valeo’s top 250 part references for its highly regarded clutch components. In addition, the agreement means that alongside the other products that the distribution centre stocks, members can also check product availability and place orders through G-NET, the group’s online electronic trading system.

During 2013, the level of business and the number of products held in stock grew significantly as more members began to experience the benefits distribution centre provides them and how it complements the group’s existing approved supplier agreements. ■

10 - garagetrader

these haven’t been cleared fully.

As a consequence insurers see a claims uplift for every air frost day, which in turn, impacts on repairer workflow.

As part of a detailed study on the key drivers for claims demand, both in terms of level and variance, it has been established that each air frost day a month increases private motor claims volumes by 0.6%. The predicted increase has never been defined to this level of accuracy before and while the percentage appears small, it represents a significant cost to the insurance sector and an increase in bodyshop activty. The average motor claim estimate is £1300 according to Audatex, therefore the cost to the insurance industry each air frost day is in the region of £1.3 million.

Paul Sykes, Sales and Operations

Director for Audatex said: “Insurers and bodyshops alike are already aware that the number of working days in a month, the number of school days and inflation are key drivers for claims but the link between air frost and claims has, until now, been very approximate.

This statistical prediction is very powerful information as it allows insurers and bodyshops to be prepared based on more accurate forecasts of FNOL volumes. It

also empowers insurers and vehicle repair workshops to take a proactive approach to managing claims prior to and following an air frost.

“The claims forecasting model we have created is based on 10 years of claims assessment data accumulated by Audatex and demonstrates our commitment to working with insurers and their bodyshops to manage the motor claims process swiftly and costeffectively.” ■

Promotion for McRae at Farécla L

eading refinish specialist Farécla is pleased to announce that Angela McRae has been promoted to UK Customer Services Supervisor, with Mark Sibthorp-Oxley reporting to her. Angela joined Farécla in 2009 and has extensive experience of supporting the sales team, dealing with customer orders and enquiries and conducting telesales.

Commenting on the promotion, Keith Parvin, Head of Business UK & Ireland said: “In a highly competitive market customer service and support is an especially important part of Farécla’s offer. Over her five years with the company Angela has built up a depth of knowledge of our customers and products which stands her in good stead for this new role.”

Angela said: “It’s an exciting time for me on account of the promotion, and a busy one too on account of the new G3 Ultra system which everyone seems to be taking to” ■

Philip white tyres in ‘armagh-geddon!’

P

hilip White Tyres recently organised a white collar boxing event, ‘ArmaghGeddon,’ in the Armagh City Hotel and raised a fantastic L-R Sean McKinney, Philip White Tyres, Diane Weston, Corporate Fundraiser NI Children’s £13,410!

Hospice and Liam White, Philip White Tyres Altogether 30 men and women participated in the boxing event which involved a gruelling 10 week training programme prior to the event, transforming them from amateurs to pros!

Liam White from Philip White Tyres and the event organiser said, ‘I am absolutely delighted with the event and the amount we managed to raise! We hope this money will make a real difference to NI Children’s

Hospice which is a charity close to our hearts. The event would not have been possible without all the support we received from each participant, Armagh City Hotel, local businesses and whitecollarboxing.ie. ‘ Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice provides specialist palliative care to around 280 children and young people both in the hospice at Newtownabbey and within the community throughout Northern Ireland. It is the only charity providing this type of care and is a vital source of support for families to help them cope with the physical and emotional demands of caring for a sick child.

Diane Weston, Corporate Fundraiser for NI Children’s Hospice said, ‘I would like to express our sincere gratitude to Philip White Tyres and everyone involved in this successful event. It costs £3 million to run our services and with limited Government funding of £250,000 we rely heavily on local businesses like Philip White Tyres and the community to raise £2.5 million each year.’ ■

TRAININGGT

Car-O-Liner Training proves very successful T

he Car-O-Liner Training Centre in Rugby was put through its paces recently as the Auto Body Repair Finalists attended specialised training courses consisting of Mig Brazing, Mig Welding, Resistance Spot Welding, Jig Realignment using both Mechanical Measuring System and the Car-O-Tronic Electronic Measuring System in preparation for the Auto Body Repair Final. This course was attended by:Matthew Bailey of RGM Vehicle Body Repairs Swansea Jordan Thomas of TWK Thomas & Son Accident Repair Centre Ltd Swansea Carlo Cipriani of Arnold Clark Automobiles Ltd Inverness Andrew McDonald of P J McClochlan Auto Body Repair Mark McCarron of Monaghan Brothers Accident Repair Centre Lisnaskea Lewis Lloyd of B P Rolls (Newport) Ltd Also attending the two day course was Rod Reed of Newcastle College who carried out Specialised Metal Finish Training. The course proved a great success. â–

garagetrader - 11

GTTRAINING

A new report from the Institute of the Motor Industry shows that an apprentice can generate up to 300 percent return on investment... Now is the time to make sure your staff are properly trained.

‘Future Proof’ your business with proper training

T

he Institute of the Motor Industry (IMI) is calling on the automotive sector to overcome its doubts about employing young people and to future proof businesses by hiring apprentices. The call to action comes on the back of new research by the IMI that breaks the myth that apprenticeships cost firms money and overwhelmingly demonstrates that there is a clear and significant financial return.

The IMI’s research shows that, by the end of their third year, a wellrecruited apprentice can generate between 150% and 300% return on investment, based on a £50 hourly charge out rate. This means that for every £1 invested, the business

nets between £1.50 and £3.00.

Furthermore, apprentices who start with no experience typically generate profit within 18 to 24 months– much earlier than was previously assumed.

Co-funded by the UK Commission for Employment and Skills, the research is the result of a two year IMI project to ascertain the level of return on investment of, and make the economic case for apprenticeships.

The study looked at a cross section of businesses from micro independents to franchise dealers across the whole of the UK and involved 30 apprentices. The productivity of an apprentice was found to follow an ‘S-curve’, showing low skilled, low level growth in the first year accelerating

SkillAuto nominated for Worldskills UK award T

he Institute of the Motoring Industry (IMI) has been nominated for the award of WorldSkills UK Partner of the Year for the delivery of its SkillAuto competitions. The announcement comes on the back of the final of the IMI SkillAuto competition – which took place at The Skills Show, held at the NEC Birmingham in November last year. Over 100,000 visitors attended the show, which provides a platform for the best of the nation’s apprentices to compete in a huge range of skills, including the three represented in SkillAuto.

The award celebrates Competition Organizing Partners who demonstrate exceptional performance and excellence throughout each annual 12 - garagetrader

competition cycle. Worldskills UK work alongside 20 partners to deliver around 70 skills competitions each year and the IMI joins the British Florist Association and the National Skills Academy for Social Care as front runners for the award which will be announced at a celebration event on the 12th February.

The nomination is sure to put Skillauto at the forefront of the 2014 Skills Show - welcome news for automotive apprenticeship providers, who are sure to benefit from the increased profile of the competition.

Registrations for the 2014 Skillauto competition opened on 10 February.

To find out more, visit www.autocity. org.uk/skillauto. ■

through the second year and delivering the same return as an experienced technician by the third or fourth year.

Steve Nash, the IMI’s CEO, comments: “Businesses must overcome their doubts about employing young people and invest in the future if our industry is to succeed as a whole.

Overwhelmingly, the results from our recent study have shown that there is a clear financial return to the business within the apprenticeship, but the attitude and support of the employer to the apprentice is critically important. By giving a young person opportunities to apply their skills they will ultimately become better and

more productive technicians much earlier than commonly perceived.”

There were 5 key benefits identified as a result of the study: The IMI S-curves show that, by the end of the third year of an apprenticeship, for a £50 hourly charge out rate, an apprentice can generate between 150% and 300% return on investment – this means that for every £1 invested, against apprentice expenses, the business nets between £1.50 and £3.00.

Apprentices typically generate profit within 18 – 24 months – this is based on an apprentice who has no experience and is essentially non productive at the start. If an apprentice has some experience, and is able to be productive from the start, they can pay their way much sooner – often in the first few quarters of the apprenticeship.

Home-grown apprentice-trained technicians outperform marketrecruited technicians.

‘Growing your own technicians’ through apprenticeships reduces long-term recruitment and training costs.

Apprentices learn company best practice and culture from the start – helping to ensure a better fit with the team and internal processes.

To find out more about the research visit www.theimi.org.uk/roi ■

TRANSPORT TRAINING SERVICESGT

Recruiting the Right Apprentice!

“W

hen is an apprentice, not an apprentice? When they’re not in employment!.” That’s the message from Michael Kerr, Business Development Director at Transport Training Services Ltd. There is no doubting the evidence that investing in an apprentice will yield both long term and short term benefits for your company.

However the employer must be clear on their role in the young person’s development to really maximise the return on investment. “ All the research indicates that apprentices can increase profitability, productivity and in some cases introduce new ideas to the workplace “ says Michael. “ Critically though, you’ll not get any return if you don’t invest.” “ The guidelines are clear from the Department for Employment and Learning ( DEL), to take part in an apprenticeship the young person, must be in employment. If you’re not employing them, they may be undertaking work experience or in another training scheme to gain

practical knowledge, but they are not an apprentice.”

Results from a variety of training providers, sector skills councils and awarding bodies, all show that if you take time to understand the apprentice programme and set realistic expectations for the young person through liaison with his/her training provider, then you can reap the benefits.

But there really is no such thing as a free lunch. Trying to get ‘free’ labour is counterproductive as first of all the requirements of the work experience training programmes minimise the amount of time the young person can spend in your company. Often because of no salary incentive the young people can become disengaged or lose interest – so really a non-employed work programme is best used in the short term to identify the young person’s potential.

If you have identified the need for another member of staff, quite often companies will seek a ‘good second year’ apprentice. The problem in this recruitment method is that you are

either trying to poach from another employer or picking up someone who has been released for some reason. The best way to get a good second year is to get a good first year and train them for a year in your own work methods.

Even when you are recruiting an apprentice you can be tempted to employ a son or relation of a friend or an existing member of staff. While

there is no problem with this, you still want to satisfy yourself that the young person is there because they want to be rather than on the instruction of their parent.

Michael explains. “At TTS we ask all applicants for apprentice training programmes to complete an aptitude test. This is to first of all test their commitment but also to get a measure of their ability well in

Practical training is the key to developing a successful apprentice

garagetrader - 13

GTTRANSPORT TRAINING SERVICES

advance of exam results which are published quite late in the summer.

We would then usually ask a potential employer to interview them rather than just employ them on our word.

The employer should check to see if the young person is a match for their company and to identify any potential problems in advance.

Remember once they are employed they have the same rights as other employees.”

It really is the perfect time to employ an apprentice as there are great incentives for employers and the training is paid for by DEL. All the employer has to do is to pay the apprentice a suitable wage.

This is an ideal low cost vehicle for expanding your workforce. For more information contact TTS at 028 9082 5653. ■

"

It really is the perfect time to employ an apprentice as there are great incentives for employers and the training is paid for by the DEL.

"

14 - garagetrader

Consultation on the Review of Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland

T

he Department for Employment and Learning in Northern Ireland is currently undertaking a review of all apprenticeships. It is contacting both trainers and employers for their views on a review which aims to shape the future of apprenticeships in Northern Ireland.

Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland are currently offered through the Department’s ApprenticeshipsNI programme, which was introduced in 2007. The programme has faced a number of refinements since its introduction, including moving to an all age programme and opening it up to those working reduced hours.

This review seeks to ensure that apprenticeships play a major role, supplying the skills to reflect the changing needs of the economy and offer a highly regarded educational pathway.

The views expressed through the consultation will help to consolidate the Department’s thinking in moving forward, to develop a revitilised apprenticeship model for Northern Ireland.

The Minister responsible, Dr. Stephen Farry commented that, “The Skills Strategy, Success through Skills – Transforming Futures, demonstrates clearly that our economy will require a significant increase in higher level skills. For example, by 2020, around half of our workforce will need to be trained to level 4 (equivalent to sub-degree) or above, on the Qualifications Frameworks.

“We also need to invest in Science, Technology,

Engineering and Mathematics (STEM), and improve the management and leadership skills within companies, especially in small and medium sized enterprises (SMEs).”

Among the proposals is one that suggests that more training be carried out in schools, but this is not practical for motor trade apprenticeships, where car aligners, welders and spraybooths etc are all required.

In the Republic of Ireland off-the-job training is delivered through alternating periods of several months, both on-thejob and in the classroom.

In Norway, school-based learning is followed by workplace training. In many apprenticeship systems the employer, where appropriate, may also deliver the off-thejob training element.

In Northern Ireland it is proposed to simplify the qualifications system by agreeing one award/qualification for each occupation at each level, with content driven by employers to ensure that there is sufficient in-built flexibility to meet employers’ needs.

The award/qualification agreed for each occupational area will include sufficient content to enable the apprentices, on completion, to use the acquired knowledge and skills within their current roles and the wider sectors.

In examining the constituent parts of a single award/ qualification, particular attention will be paid to the need to develop employability and enterprise skills.

The Department will publish the way forward this summer. ■

Sikkens proudly presents

Ian Bates Painter McLaren Body Shop

“Our job is to stay ahead of the competition.

This turbocharged system promises a first place finish”

Watch the new trailer:

WWW.SIKKENSVR.COM WT_Painters Autowave 2.0 Product-Ad_240x330.indd 1

11/03/2013 09:15

GTRIVERPARK

Apprenticeship Training: a New Way Forward Colin Hagan, managing director of Riverpark Training looks at the new apprenticeship proposals issued by DEL...

Riverpark Training is currently developing a business and administration course specific to the Motor Industry, while this is currently available from a variety of colleges and training providers it is our intention to create a bespoke course that will improve micro businesses and dealerships alike.

D

r Stephen Farry MLA (Minister for Employment and Learning) has published a report into the way forward for Apprenticeships in Northern Ireland. He has stated “This review of apprenticeships has the potential to radically reform and improve the training landscape in Northern Ireland, and is a top priority for my team during my term in office”.

There are 32 proposals in the document and some are quite challenging for employers and training providers to adjust to, they are available to view on the DEL website www.delni.gov.uk/interimreport-review. Some of the proposals suggest that Apprenticeships start at Level 3 and progress to Level 8. While this progression is welcomed; in the motor industry the highest available is currently at Level 4 (diagnostic technician).

What then of Level 2? Will we see this being taught at schools and

16 - garagetrader

colleges prior to employment? As a training provider to the accident repair industry we know how important it is to train young people to carryout level 2 practical tasks, such as panel repairs, panel preparation and replacing damaged panels. Can schools and colleges provide the necessary practical training required for young people to be competent in these areas?

Other proposals refer to apprentices having a broader spectrum of skills beyond their current job role. This is certainly an interesting proposal that would improve the employability of young people in the workplace; however the additional training would have to be factored into the existing apprenticeship and that would mean more ‘off the job’ training at the employer’s expense.

Further proposals suggest end testing of the Level 3 qualification and I would welcome this. It is suggested that this will be carried out by an independent

authority not connected to the training provider that is delivering the training. This would certainly remove the stigma that surrounds NVQ as not meeting the needs of the employer.

Where then would ATA stand as it currently is a series of practical tasks and on-line tests to determine the competency level of technicians?

James Crawford (Crawford’s Accident Repair)

New Business and Administration Course Riverpark Training is currently developing a business and administration course specific to the Motor Industry. While this is currently available from a variety of colleges and training providers it is our intention to create a bespoke course that will improve micro businesses and dealerships alike. We would like to hear from any business thinking of recruiting young people to the administration side of their company so we can develop this course to their required needs.

Another Riverpark Training apprentice embarks on the road to World Skills On January 24, 2014, Riverpark Training hosted the AMVT panel competition. This saw competitors from Transport Training Services, North West Regional College and Riverpark Training apprentices take on a variety

RIVERPARK GT

of tasks to establish if they were the best in Northern Ireland. The tasks included rivet and bonding, MAG welding, MIG brazing, metal finishing and removal and replacement of non structural panels. The marking criteria for these tasks were based on the current world skills level, so not an easy day for all. After all the marking was counted by all the judges from all of the training providers represented, James Crawford (Crawford’s Accident Repair) was announced the winner, James now joins a long list of five competitors who will compete against each other over the next year to establish who will be the competitor who will represent the UK for Autobody repair at World Skills Brazil 2015.

Meanwhile Rebecca Wilson and Patrick Quinn took part in a similar event this time hosted at Transport Training Services; they were pitted against competitors from North West Regional College. Rebecca and Patrick are already in the long list for Car Painting so this competition was mainly to give them both competition experiences if they are to progress to Squad Selection and again a possible competitor’s position in the World Skills UK Team.

The Riverpark Team: Patricia Robinson, David Frizzell and Colin Hagan

World Skills UK Squad selection comes to Northern Ireland

Training Services for Car Painting

If you have, Riverpark Training

and Riverpark Training for Auto Body

The Department for Employment and Learning has secured the Squad Selection competitions for Northern Ireland in June 2014. This means that Northern Ireland will showcase the best of UK vocational skills prior to World Skills Brazil 2015. The Motor Industry skills are planned to be showcased at Northern Regional College for Autotech, Transport

of media attention and our young

would like to hear from you. We are currently seeking the best technicians in Northern Ireland to put them forward for the Bodyshop Magazine Awards. Successful applications will be entered into a 2-day skill event that will test them against the best of the rest of the UK. So are you the best, then prove it. Contact Riverpark Training on riverparktraining@btconnect.com to apply.

Repair. These events will attract a lot competitors could see themselves on TV at some time over the competition period.

Have you got what it takes to be the best Panel Beater or Vehicle Refinisher?

Apprenticeships in the Motor Vehicle Industry Riverpark Training and Development Centre have employed positions with leading Accident Repair

Business Administration

Centres and Motor Vehicle Dealerships all over Northern Ireland and can offer career starts with

Vehicle Body Repair

leading companies with immediate start. If you are looking for an apprenticeship that provides you with

Vehicle Refinishing

a variety of challenges and tests you to develop as the modern vehicle technology develops, then this is the apprenticeship for you.

Vehicle Fitting Vehicle Parts

Please call 028 9034 2400 and get yourself a worthwhile career in a demanding industry.

Apply on-line @ www.riverparktraining.com garagetrader - 17

KARKRAFTGT

AkzoNobel Car Refinishes Time spent on good quality training is time well spent

T

he first thing to note about AkzoNobel’s Automotive Training Centre (ATC) is its central location.

Situated on the Longmile Road not far from the Red Cow roundabout and landmark hotel just off Dublin’s M50 ring road. AkzoNobel Car Refinishes’ Irish headquarters and training centre is easily accessed from North South East and West. A two hour drive from Belfast, Cork or Galway will have you in AkzoNobel ready to start one of a suite of bespoke training courses for bodyshop technicians and managers.

AkzoNobel’s ATC is purpose built to train technicians in the latest vehicle refinishing techniques, over the last twenty years is has trained some of the leading refinishing experts in all parts of Ireland North and South.

Paul Dunne, AkzoNobel’s Technical Manager, leads a team of dedicated professional technicians who deliver training in all aspect of vehicle refinishing. Paul has very strong views on the value of training and the need to keep customers at the cutting edge of body repair particularly in today’s tough economic environment. Paul says “Our training and our facilities have to be the best to keep up with the rapid changes in both product and refinishing methods. Our industry and our customers are under considerable pressure from all sides. Work providers demand reduced costs and in particular to reduce cycle times our customers’ have had to change the way they work to survive.

Paul goes on, in response to these

demands on the bodyshop, we have developed specialist training which we call ‘Let’s Get Serious About Time’.

This is a suite of courses designed to look not only at innovative products but also process and equipment innovation to reduce cycle times in the bodyshop. The ‘Let’s Get Serious About Time’ programme includes AkzoNobel’s Express Repair Techniques (ERT). Express Repair uses AkzoNobel’s UV light technology which reduces drying times on clearcoat and primer to 6 minutes.

Through these innovative courses we want our bodyshop customers not just to survive but to thrive!”

AkzoNobel’s Managing Director Peter Daly comments “Our customers, training needs have evolved and changed over the years. We have

had to change and adopt with them.

For example we have in the past held special training in the Polish language catering for the many Polish painters there were in Irish bodyshops at that time. For this we called on our Polish colleagues who duly obliged and travelled to Ireland and carried out the two day training courses for us. One of the big advantages of being part of a global organisation is that we can share our knowledge and resources globally. AkzoNobel’s ATC offers similar facilities and consistent training across all countries. So if you take part in any AkzoNobel training course it will be the same high quality training no matter what language or where in the world it is delivered”.

AkzoNobel’s ATC has a fully equipped bodyshop where trainees learn practical skills working in a real bodyshop environment. In the workshop students can use the latest products and equipment such as UV clearcoat and UV light technology along with our market leading colour tools Automatchic 3 colour spectrophotometer linked to Mixit Manager. The training area is also used for local colour development and a colour lab and classroom complete the facilities available.

Training courses available at AkzoNobel’s Automotive Training Centre include Express Repair Techniques, Rapid Repair, Surface Preparation, Three Stage Pearl Application, Specialist Topcoat Application, Colour Process Training and many more including most importantly Health & Safety. For further information contact Paul Dunne at +353 1 4501344. ■

garagetrader - 19

GTNEWS

Get set for the CV Show

T

he Commercial Vehicle Show is the primary sourcing and selling opportunity for the entire UK road freight transport and logistics industry, unrivalled in size, product range and visitor attendance. For operators it is

the meeting place, attracting over 18,000 visitors with serious buying power.

The CV Show is the largest and most comprehensive road freight transport event staged in the

UK, catering for every operator’s requirements from trucks, vans and all types of trailers through to handling equipment, insurers, tyre, telemetry and training providers, fuels and lubricant suppliers – and a whole lot more. To ensure the industry’s wheels keep turning at maximum efficiency, the Workshop sector alone features 100+ stands showcasing everything from OE components and replacement parts to garage and workshop equipment.

Operating cost is one of the key issues around which today’s commercial vehicle industry revolves.

Fuel, maintenance, driver safety, communications – they all mean money and, for today’s commercial vehicle operator, telematics can go a long way to making every penny count.

Once the realm of the big fleet operator, telematics systems are now accessible to all and, by their

Philips address the Xenonlamp piracy issue T

he problem of counterfeit goods is by no means new, but it is one increasingly faced by manufacturers in the automotive industry, especially in the aftermarket sector. Global automotive lighting leaders, Philips, has, like many, found itself the victim of unscrupulous companies passing their goods off as genuine Philips bulbs – particularly in the high-end Xenon lighting area - and therefore the company is now launching a new campaign aimed at fighting back against the fakes.

“The issue of counterfeit product is not simply a legal or even a business matter. Buying, selling, or even being in possession of such a product is illegal, but when it comes to vehicle lighting – as with many other critical automotive components - it is also a potentially lethal safety issue,” explains Philips Automotive UK Country Manager, Ed Savage.

The company has been monitoring a steady rise in counterfeit replacement Xenon bulbs coming onto the market – particularly on the internet. These invariably are very poor imitations and are of dramatically inferior quality compared to the Philips genuine product that is fitted as Original Equipment.

From now on, all Philips C1 and S1 Xenon bulbs will come in packaging that carries a Philips Certificate of Authenticity (COA), The COA on each package has a unique Security Code.

Under strong light the Security Code shimmers in rainbow colours using iridescent technology. There is also a Moving Code whereby under direct light a moving digit is visible, repeating the last digit of the Security Code. By changing the angle of the COA in direct light, the digit will move up and down.

Professionals also have the possibility of additional verification using a magnifying glass by examining the Micro Code next to the Philips logo, which must match the Security code.

A special microsite www.philips.com/original has been set up, that allows customers to instantly check they have purchased genuine Philips product by simply typing in the product coding on the packaging. ■ 20 - garagetrader

very nature, can be tailored to any company, large or small. Whether it’s vehicle tracking, tachograph analysis, fuel economy or a fully integrated package that covers every area of operation, exhibitors at the CV Show will have something to suit every buyer.

Karen Crispe, Managing Director of Tachodisc, the tachograph legislation experts, is a long-time exhibitor and great supporter of the Show. “The CV Show has become the main event of the CV industry calendar. It’s the perfect opportunity to get the industry together under one roof, provides an excellent networking opportunity and gives exhibitors, large and small, the chance to demonstrate their latest innovations and developments.”

The CV and Workshop shows open at 08:30 on Tuesday 29 April and is open each day to 17:30 until Thursday 1 May. ■

Workshop at the CV Show W

orkshop has become an integral part of the Commercial Vehicle Show and is the only national forum for the passenger car and commercial vehicle maintenance and repair industry sector. It attracts business from the widest possible audience including prime decision makers from franchised dealers, independent garages, fleet workshops, body repair shops and wholesalers.

Visitors that come to Workshop run fleets of cars, vans and trucks and the opportunity to visit the latest providers of goods and services, all under one roof, has proved to be of great benefit to companies such as BT, Centrica and the RAC; all of which operate many hundreds of vehicles and have substantial budgets for replacement parts and garage equipment.

leading suppliers of MOT/ATL/ATF Equipment Bradbury’s Divisional Manager, Keith McLaren commented, “We see Workshop 2014 as the only exhibition where potential customers can see garage equipment ‘in the flesh’ and, in many cases, actually working. Bradbury will be featuring its Commercial 1090ATF Brake Tester and Shaker Plate, and Commercial Pit as well as a full ATL Bay amongst other equipment.”

If commercial vehicles represent the wheels of the UK road freight industry, it is the workshop sector that keeps those wheels turning. Come and visit Workshop 2014 at this year’s Commercial Vehicle Show from 29 April-1 May 2014 in Halls 3a, 4 and 5 of the NEC in Birmingham. Opening hours are 08:30 to 17:30 each day.

For further information, visit www.cvshow.com. ■

LuK_GTNI_DMF_Reason_LuK_GTNI_DMF_Reason 26/02/2014 17:37 Page 2

LuK DMF. Original fitment for a reason.

No other technology looks the same, works the same or performs the same.

25 Years of OE success!

Fitted as OE to over

85 MILLION European vehicles & still growing!

ORIGINAL EQUIPMENT

For more than 25 years, the Dual Mass Flywheel has been the go-to technology that allows vehicle manufacturers to efficiently control increasing vibration levels in the modern drivetrain system.

Designed and built by LuK in collaboration with the world’s leading engine designers, a DMF is the only way of maintaining the performance, economy and comfort levels originally intended by the vehicle manufacturer.

The world’s leading vehicle manufacturers choose LuK DMF for a reason, so should you!

All LuK clutch kits and components come with a lifetime warranty* and FREE technical support which is available on Monday to Friday between 8.30am-5.30pm and on Saturdays from 9.00am-12.00am Technical Hotline Number : 0044 1432 264264 For more workshop knowledge visit:

When compared to an OE DMF, LTD technology is just that - LIMITED! • Technically LTD a non-genuine, unapproved system • Functionally LTD 45° rotational capacity vs 186° • Operationally LTD increased emissions and fuel consumption plus reduced comfort levels

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK) Ltd Holme Lacy Road, Rotherwas, Hereford HR2 6BQ Tel: 0044 1432 264264 E-mail: hfd-info@schaeffler.com www.schaeffler-aftermarket.co.uk *conditions apply

GTTYRE RECYCLING

Waste Tyres – time for an all Ireland solution?

The safe and legal disposal of used tyres is currently under scrutiny and Northern Ireland may soon adopt an approach similar to that in the Republic...

T

he majority of EU countries operate under a producer responsibility system where tyre ‘producers’ are responsible for managing end-of-life tyres. Producers are usually defined as any organisation in the tyre chain including manufacturers, retailers, importers and recyclers. Most schemes appear to operate through a collection system requiring the producer, or an organisation on their behalf, to collect the same number of tyres they have produced.

Northern Ireland, like the rest of the UK, currently operates a free market system where the legislation sets objectives but does not define how these are to be met. Experience in England and Wales indicates that voluntary self-auditing schemes can work well for the majority within an industry willing to participate and can free up resources for enforcement bodies to focus on illegal activity.

However, they do not do away with the need for effective enforcement.

The Republic of Ireland also allows the free market to operate but the big difference between it and Northern Ireland is that it requires anyone operating in the tyre industry to be registered and submit data to an approved compliance company or the local council.

The Department of the Environment in Northern Ireland is of the opinion that there are potential risks if two different approaches to used tyre management operate north and south of the border. If a full producer responsibility scheme was introduced in the Republic of Ireland the cost of tyres would be increased to pay for it and this would make tyres in Northern Ireland appear cheaper

Making TRACS in the Republic

A

review of the Producer Responsibility Initiative Model, proposed for the Irish Tyre Industry was published at the end of 2013. The report recommended changing the scope of the current self compliance model to a centralised electronic, Producer Responsibility Initiative, which would be operated by a single scheme like TRACS (Tyre Recovery Activity Compliance Scheme.)

TRACS welcomes the Department’s conclusion that there should only be one scheme and is very supportive of the idea that the system needs to operate on an all island basis, so as not to disadvantage operators in the Republic of Ireland. However, TRACS also believes that the industry is currently well placed to meet the requirements of the Waste Management Regulations 2007, without the adoption of a new and full PRI process.

“There is a general consensus in the industry sector, that a full PRI would only work on an all-island basis, both North and South”, according to Fiacra Quinn, director of TRACS. “With regard to a robust monitoring and audit system, we have already built a very solid foundation in these processes, one on which we believe the interests of all invested bodies are best served.”

“The report has several positive recommendations”, says Mr. Quinn. “The level of illegal storage of waste tyres has decreased overall in Ireland and storage guidance for used and waste tyres at suppliers’ outlets would help to reduce this even more. Improvement in the identification of non-compliant producers, targeted enforcement actions carried out by local authorities and setting penalties at an appropriate level are all practical propositions.” ■

22 - garagetrader

as a result. Also, as producers would only be responsible for tyres in the Republic of Ireland, many tyres would be reported as coming from Northern Ireland.

The introduction of a producer responsibility scheme will be considered in the long term for better management of used tyres in Northern Ireland but the Department is expected to liaise with the Republic

of Ireland when considering any long term approach for dealing with used tyres. In the short term the Department will be more proactive in its tracking and enforcement of used tyres including auditing retailers and the DOE believes that making it mandatory for tyre producers in Northern Ireland to register with a compliance scheme would facilitate this. ■

Responsible Recyclers M

ore than 80 percent of the 55 million used tyres generated in the UK are processed via the Responsible Recycler Scheme. The scheme ensures full traceability and accountability of waste tyres throughout the disposal chain, from collection through to their final reuse in an environmentally friendly or acceptable method.

Under the EU landfill directive introduced in 2006, it has been illegal to send waste tyres to landfill. Instead, they are now used in a wide range of applications including construction bales, sports surfaces, fuel for cement kilns and sound barriers amongst others.

Members of the Responsible Recycler Scheme are subject to regular annual audits, ensuring they fully comply with all relevant environmental legislation.

To avoid becoming complicit in any waste tyre crimes, retailers must be certain that they know their collector operates within the confines of the law. They should check to see if they are a member of the Responsible Recycler Scheme, with the assurance that they have the necessary authorisation and permits from the Environment Agency to be collecting and storing tyres.

A recent BBC Panorama investigation exposed the consequences of major tyre crime and also showed how waste tyres are being exported illegally to countries such as Vietnam where they are burned in uncontrolled environments, causing widespread pollution. ■

TYRE RECYCLING GT

Crumb Rubber Ireland Ltd

I

n 2003 Dundalk men Leo Kerley & Padraig Hand took the initiative of establishing Crumb Rubber Ireland Ltd to recycle end-of-life tyres, take them completely out of the waste stream and turn them into new useful products.

The Crumb Rubber Ireland facility in Co. Louth is the only one of its kind in Ireland. It takes in tyres of any size, from car up to the large earth-movers and recycles them producing to a full range of eco friendly granulate and matting products. Products are

produced for a range of sectors including: agriculture and horticulture; construction; transport; childcare; equestrian; leisure; golf and sports.

The company has worked hard, with University College Cork and with the support of agencies such as Enterprise Ireland and the EPA, to make their recycling activity energy efficient and to utilise all of the material released on breaking up tyres in this process. This means that Crumb Rubber Ireland can harness every piece of this valuable resource - the end-of-life tyre - which was once a significant landfill problem.

The company collects end-of-life tyres from all over the island of Ireland

and also accepts tyres at the gate.

The tyres are processed in a state of the art facility through a series of mechanical processes, namely grinding, shredding, granulation and compaction. Once granulated and screened for quality control, some product is sold as granulate for the equestrian, garden, sports and childcare sectors while the remaining other granulate is sent for further processing to make rubber matting and related products. This matting makes surfaces safer and sound proof and is used in various applications in the construction, equestrian, agricultural, childcare, rail, industrial, pet and domestic sectors.

Having control over the raw material and the manufacturing process means the company can produce a wide range of eco friendly sector specific products and can easily adapt products to customer requirements at production. Crumb Rubber Ireland’s research and development team are always busy working on new products with clients to suit their individual specifications.

Crumb Rubber Ireland was honoured to be voted the prestigious award of Green Entrepreneur of the year in 2010. This award was recognition or their products excellent green credentials.

“Tyres are 100% recyclable,” says Leo, “We process end of life tyres into shred, chips and granulate for rubber mats and coloured garden chippings for the sports and leisure industry.

We produce new and innovative products in our manufacturing plant and through this process ensure that the waste tyres we take in are taken, in their entirety, out of the waste stream.”

Crumb Rubber Ireland is aware of the pressures on tyre retail outlets and therefore can offer guaranteed recycling of waste tyres into new useful products – “used to useful” as Leo quipped. This allows the company’s retailer clients to assure motorists that disposal charges paid will be used to recycle tyres in Ireland and that the waste tyres will not be sold on as a ‘part worn tyre’ either at home or abroad. ■

FOR MORE INFORMATION: PHONE: 00353 (0) 42 93 82611 EMAIL: info@crumbrubber.ie • WEB: www.crumbrubber.ie garagetrader - 23

GTTYRE RECYCLING

Landfill Engineering solution for used tyres from PPP Peter O’Kane from PPP

P

PP is one of the country’s largest tyre recycling operators and is based just outside the County Antrim town of Portglenone.

Portglenone Peugeot Parts (PPP) recently invested in a new tyre recycling plant that is one of the first of its kind in the UK and Ireland.

Peter O’Kane started the company back in 1990 as a specialist Peugeot dismantler and over the years PPP has expanded and now offers a tyre recycling service, End of Life Vehicle (ELV) disposal, metal recycling and is an agent for Copart online damaged repairable auctions.

The PPP Tyre Recycling division started operating in 2001 and processed used tyres, many of which were from PPP’s own dismantled vehicles. These tyres were broken down into crumbs and were used for playground and leisure surfaces as well as for ground cover in gardens to prevent weeds. In summer 2010 one of PPP’s tyre recycling sites suffered an arson attack and after the fire the decision was taken to centralise all tyre recycling at PPP’s eight acre site and headquarters on the Gortgole Road, just outside the picturesque 24 - garagetrader

town of Portglenone.

PPP Tyre Recycling offers a unique recycling and waste management service that enables waste producers from all industrial and business sectors to manage and report their waste, from collection to recovery regardless of the type, volume or location.

From the new state of the art multi million pound recycling facility, PPP Tyre recycling has introduced to Ireland the latest in tyre shredding technology, allowing PPP to process waste tyres into an innovative 100% recycled line of products.

PPP’s tyre recyling is now centred on landfill engineering, a process that forms the basis of landfill waste sites. Tyres are collected from around Ireland and brought to the PPP site where they are shredded. This shredded rubber is eventually laid on top of a plastic liner at the bottom of a rubbish tip. The plastic liner has drains connected to it to collect any contaminated water which is collected in tanks for purification. This ensures that the local water table is not affected by any seepage. The rubbish is then dumped on top of the shredded tyres. The thick layer of

shredded tyres prevent any damage to the liner and allows the water to seep away.

Full documentation is supplied for any consignment that PPP accepts or collects.

With PPP managing waste tyres,

motor traders, tyre fitters and garages can have peace of mind that their waste stream is fully documented from collection to disposal ensuring the company fulfills its responsibility by disposing of its waste tyres at an approved and fully licensed facility. ■

Number of used tyres rising annually in Northern Ireland

T

here is a high but unknown volume of used tyres arising in Northern Ireland throughout the year. Current Department of Environment estimates based on previous surveys and Northern Ireland Assembly Research papers suggest it is in the region of 30,000 tonnes per year or 1.8 million tyres, nearly double the amount in 2000. Indications are that only 17% of this is actually being recovered.

Significant amounts of used tyres are not being disposed of in a way that meets legal and environmental obligations and while estimates suggest this might be improving it would still seem to be well below the target of the 2006-2020 Waste Management Strategy.

A small percentage of used tyres remain on farms covering silos but as more farms move towards round bale silage there is a decreasing need for tyres on farms.

Proposals are in hand to ensure that all tyre depots will be required to submit an annual report to NIEA and the Department of Environment will conduct policing of tyre depots to ensure all tyres are accounted for. ■

Tyre Recycling Let PPP Group move your tyres. For piece of mind when disposing of waste tyres in an approved and fully licensed facility

Need to move tyres quickly?

Why not use our collection service or Competitive Gate Fees

Tyre Recycling

GROUP

Salvage Breaker Auctions

Metal Recycling and end of life vehicles

SALVAGE & BREAKER AUCTIONS

ARE NOW ON-LINE

79 Gortgole Road, Portglenone, Co. Antrim BT44 8AN Tel: 028 2582 2066 Web: www.ppp-group.co.uk

GTTYRE RECYCLING

TRACS – Changing attitudes in the tyre industry T

he Tyre Recovery Activity Compliance Scheme (TRACS) is Ireland’s leading tyre monitoring and compliance scheme. It is a legal requirement for anyone involved in any element of the tyre supply or tyre disposal chain in the Republic of Ireland, to be signed up to a compliance scheme such as TRACS. The local authorities can make enforcement proceedings against people/companies who are found to be non-compliant.

The 2013 TRACS annual report shows that membership of TRACS has increased dramatically since 2011, growing from 204 members to a current total of 511 members. The total number of sites registered with TRACS has also more than doubled from 300 to 680, an increase of 127%.

The report states that approximately 3 million tyres were imported into Ireland for supply in 2012, mostly car tyres. TRACS accounted for 3 in every 4 tyres imported. Furthermore, TRACS also accounted for 9 in every 10 waste tyres collected and treated either in this country or abroad. Retail members account for

26 - garagetrader

about 59% of tyres directly fitted onto vehicles, a lower proportion given the increasingly fluid and fragmented market place: this is because there are more, and smaller, retailers fitting a varied of new and part-worn tyres.

The waste is managed in mainly two equal ways. Almost 45% of used tyres were recycled into granulate, while 42% were recovered as fuel, such as that used in cement kilns abroad as a replacement for fossil fuels. The remaining 13% included various uses, such as anchors for silage pit covers.

In this regime, and under the current Regulations, ownership of the waste remains with the waste holder; which is the retailer. Current enforcement of waste management practices is an on-going task for the local authorities, not only regarding the environmentally sound management of waste tyres by permitted waste collectors, but also on the retailers who are only allowed to store a certain quantity of waste on their premises.

More information is available on the TRACS website. www.tracs.ie ■

Pat Kierans is Sales Manager at TRACS, Ireland’s leading tyre compliance scheme P

at’s role is to focus on encouraging remaining retailers and all others involved in the tyre industry to sign up to its scheme as well as continuing to challenge and change existing industry habits concerning managing waste tyres for the better.

Pat has almost 30 years extensive experience in the motor industry having worked with several high profile companies in commercial vehicles and retail motor sales, as well as running his own retail car business. ■

BATTERIESGT

Managing Waste Batteries A

s well as being the UK’s largest automotive battery distributor, Manbat Ltd is a member of the ECOBAT Technologies group of companies, which also includes specialist waste battery businesses and its own lead smelting mills.

ECOBAT is the world’s largest producer of lead, which is processed through its 13 lead facilities located strategically across the globe. More than 80% of its total lead production comes from recycled lead.

This spread of businesses allows ECOBAT Technologies to apply what it describes as a ‘closed recycling loop’ for lead acid batteries, which it operates in the following way.

Among its many customers are large-scale battery manufacturers and these companies purchase huge quantities of ECOBAT’s lead ingots, which they then process to form the plates that go into their batteries. Their finished products

are then distributed nationally through Manbat’s comprehensive branch network to wholesalers and battery specialists who in turn need a legitimate outlet for the waste batteries they collect from their customers when they supply a new battery.

These scrap batteries are collected by G & P Batteries, the country’s leading waste battery collection specialist, who dismantle the batteries into their core elements, the lead from which goes back into the lead smelting process.

However, it is not just the lead that is recycled: the sulphuric acid from the battery’s electrolyte is converted into gypsum for the construction industry and the cases are reprocessed into polypropylene, which is a highly sought after element for many industries.

This closed recycling loop waste management policy ensures that 99.97% of each battery collected

is recycled.

Manbat believes it provides a scrap battery-recycling scheme that is the benchmark for the industry. It can offer its customers a complete

service that not only takes the worry out of battery waste, but can also turn that waste into extra profits, which can be ploughed back into the business. ■

garagetrader - 27

Serfac Limited, Hilary House Belgard Road, Dublin 24 Tel: 01 459 8700 Fax: 01 459 8709 Email: sales@serfac.ie Web: www.serfac.ie

NEWSGT

Valeo continues to grow for Serfac Limited A

dded to the Serfac product range last October, the Valeo Wiping Programme is continuing to perform strongly for the company, with both Valeo wipers and wiper motors proving popular with Serfac customers.

A leading supplier of wipers to both the Independent aftermarket and the OE Spares market, Valeo produces a comprehensive range of front and rear wiper blades.

Collaborating closely with vehicle manufacturers on cuttingedge wiping technologies, the brand offers a choice of brands for both passenger car and LCV wipers.

Manufactured to OE quality standards, Valeo’s Silencio range is the brand’s premium blade and comprises of 188 part numbers that incorporate all of the technology available at OE including spoilers, curved blades, BBI rear blades, blades equipped with a spray bar and over 90 Flat Blades. Compact is Valeo’s premium wiper brand, adapted to the aftermarket, while Magnum is Valeo’s value for money brand – a short range of nine universal blades covering 75% of the UK & Ireland conventional car parc.

Tested for wiping quality, durability, corrosion resistance and the ability to withstand extreme weather conditions, Valeo can supply a high performing wiper solution for just about any application. A wide range of informative Valeo videos covering topics such as wiper blade defect detection, testing and fitting is available on You Tube.

Serfac recently announced details of a new Valeo promotion. Contact the Serfac sales team on 01-459 8700 or sales@serfac.ie for more details of this latest offer. ■

Christian Gussen, Managing Director Audi Ireland with Michael Moore Jr and Michael Moore Sr.

New Audi showroom for Athlone A

udi Athlone has opened its doors to a brand new state-of-the-art showroom, heralding a new era for motoring in the midlands.

This €4.4 million investment in the building of the brand new Audi Athlone showroom has established 18 jobs to date, with plans to add a further five positions by the end of the year. The opening of the new 12 car showroom forms part of Audi Ireland’s overall €80 million investment into its dealer network with further openings planned in the coming year.

The Audi Athlone showroom will also boast up to 60 Audi Approved :plus used vehicles outside on display with an additional 100 car park spaces reserved for customer car parking and used models.

Michael Moore Jr, dealer principal, Audi Athlone commented, “We have a long standing tradition in the motoring trade in the midlands having been in business for 42 years. My father, Michael Senior, established the business in Portarlington in 1972 and progressed on to open a new garage and showrooms in 1981 in Monksland, Athlone on the western side of the Shannon.” ■

New team member at Motoglass

M

otoglass Carparts are delighted with the newest member of their tele-sales team.

Norma Skillen has brought an exuberant enthusiasm to the car parts industry in Belfast, getting involved with all aspects of supplying the top brand names to motor factors throughout Ireland along with the local garage trade.

After being brought up alongside her father’s garage in Killarney, Norma`s love for the motor industry led to a further nine years experience in the service and parts sector prior to her move to Belfast to support her husband Paul, who has recently opened a garage at Falcon Road just off the Boucher Road. It is rumoured it is not blood in Norma`s veins but Millers oil!

The team at Motoglass Carparts wish Norma continued success and enjoy her infectious good humour and witty banter in the office. ■

Norma Skillen who has joined the team at Motoglass Carparts

garagetrader - 29

GTSprings, Shock Absorbers, Suspension

One in five accidents caused by faulty suspension After a winter of bouncing through potholes, workshops can profit from worn out suspension...

S

uspension damage is still something that is underestimated and technical inspection organizations in Germany such as TÜV and Dekra work on the assumption that up to 15 percent of all vehicles are driving around with defective shock absorbers. This means that literally millions of drivers are putting themselves and others at risk.

In the DEKRA defect statistics, with around 20 percent, faulty suspension is the third most common technical cause of accidents after brakes and tyres.

In more than half of the accidents involving vehicles that are at least ten years old with over 150,000 kilometres on the clock, defective shock absorbers are at least partly to blame. For this reason, suspension expert Bilstein urgently advises that not only the brakes, battery, oil level, fan belt, exhaust, tyres and wiper blades be checked during a springtime visit to the workshop, but that a closer look is also taken at the shock absorbers,

which suffer a lot of wear and tear, especially in the winter.

Where shock absorber checks are concerned, Bilstein doesn’t only rely on the results of others; they test damping force for themselves.

Once again in 2013, Bilstein’s mobile suspension testers were out and about all over Germany - and their findings matched up to a great extent with the statistics of the big inspection organizations. Around 20 percent of the vehicles checked

by Bilstein had a defect in the suspension system. Both the front and rear axles were inspected. It was discovered here that as many as one in four vehicles had a road

adherence difference of more than 20 percent – a sure sign of a suspension defect. Of these, the experts estimate, almost one in six was attributable to faulty shock absorbers, where the ageing process takes place on the inside where it can’t be seen. Drivers therefore don’t usually notice the wear and tear until it’s much too late, if at all.

The consequences are severe, because road safety in particular is impaired when the tyres lose traction.

The risk increases when cornering or taking evasive action, because the vehicle skids more easily. In addition to this, the braking distance is extended by roughly 20 percent,

according to the experts. The dreaded aquaplaning effect also sets in much earlier. “A regular check of the suspension, including the shocks and springs, is essential for road safety,” emphasizes Rainer Popiol, head of training with Bilstein in Ennepetal.

The workshops benefit too, because the detection of possible safety risks strengthens customer loyalty, not to mention the additional turnover if the shock absorbers have to be replaced.

Bilstein recommends that all safety-relevant vehicle parts be inspected at least every 20,000 kilometres. ■

employ up to one hundred and forty people in the local area. KYB has invested over €8 million in the project, based in Chrudim in the Czech Republic, which is around 15km from KYB’s existing shock absorber factory in Pardubice. Construction began in May with completion in October 2013. Production began in December, increasing gradually to full strength early this year.

The manufacturing process has been established based on the highest production standard. A carefully controlled shot peening process significantly increases the fatigue life of the coil spring. All K-Flex coil springs are phosphate coated prior to receiving an epoxy powder coating. This process guarantees a tough, durable finish with enhanced corrosion resistance properties.

Traceability is ensured by a new laser

marking system, unique to KYB. Mike Howarth, Vice President of KYB Europe Headquarters explains “This new factory is an important development for KYB in Europe and the investment strengthens KYB’s coil spring business across Europe by improving supply, as well as helping to further develop the market leading car parc coverage”.

KYB Europe has been selling coil springs to the automotive aftermarket for ten years now, initially in the UK and then across all of Europe. It is an important product which has seen strong growth in the last few years.

KYB recommends that all shock absorbers and coil springs are fitted in pairs, to restore the vehicles suspension performance and handling to how the vehicle manufacturer designed it. ■

Kyb invests in the future K

YB Corporation is further demonstrating its commitment to the European aftermarket with the launch of a brand new wholly owned

30 - garagetrader

coil spring factory.

The factory has been built in order to fully support the demand for coil springs across Europe and will

GT

New kyb Catalogues For 2014

K

YB has launched its latest catalogues for shock absorbers and coil springs a complete listing of the KYB range as well as details of all new applications for 2014.

The comprehensive catalogues feature 66 new shock absorber part numbers for KYB’s five damper ranges and 92 new coil spring part numbers.

These include applications for cars, car derived vans (CDVs) and light commercial vehicles (LCVs). Many of the new parts are already available from stock. There are an additional 160 new applications covered by existing references.

The new additions for shock absorbers & coil springs cover an impressive 13 million cars across Europe. Notable new applications are listed at the end of this press release.

Also included are over 22 additional applications for Suspension Mounting Kits – which increase the life of the shock absorber and are easily replaced at the same time as the shock absorbers, as well as 45 new Protection Kit applications, with a further 139 new applications covered by existing references.

80 Vehicle manufacturers are included in the KYB shock absorber catalogue, giving the largest aftermarket car parc coverage in Europe. For easy reference they are listed alphabetically in both catalogues. A helpful pictorial listing of suspension components is also included.

An interactive version of the catalogue is available on the KYB Europe website, as well as a PDF download. It is also listed on major electronic catalogues such as TecDoc. KYB is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of original equipment shock absorbers. The same world class product quality is available to the European aftermarket. KYB recommends that all shock absorbers and coil springs are fitted in pairs, to restore the vehicles suspension performance and handling to how the vehicle manufacturer designed it. ■ garagetrader - 31

KARKRAFTGT

Karkraft add Monroe Steering & Suspension to range K

arkraft are delighted to welcome Monroe Steering & Suspension to complement their Monroe Shocks & Springs and already extensive car parts range.

As one of the world’s foremost original equipment suppliers, Tenneco

works in partnership with 40 leading vehicle manufacturers to develop and deliver innovative solutions that help maximize vehicle performance and driver/passenger safety and satisfaction. The same commitment to quality and innovation seen in

each of our OE products is designed and built into every replacement component carrying the Monroe® brand.

The difference in performance Every Monroe® steering and suspension component is designed, manufactured and tested to meet the unique requirements of each vehicle application. This comprehensive range of OE-quality replacement parts helps workshops earn the trust of today’s most demanding consumers.

The difference in your business For nearly 100 years, successful

automotive workshops have relied on the Monroe® brand to increase their sales through superior quality, marketing support and customer satisfaction. Tenneco and Monroe® are committed to helping you capture every steering and suspension opportunity. The Monroe® brand – combined with world-class training, OE leadership, industry-best repair solutions and other important business building benefits – is the most powerful marketing tool in the steering and suspension category.

Choose Monroe® Steering and Suspension and we guarantee you’ll feel the difference.

For further information regarding Monroe products and offers - contact the Karkraft sales team on (028) 9085 5555 or email sales@karkraftni.co.uk ■

Delivering World Brands K

arkraft are pleased to announce they have added two new vans to their fleet. These new additions will enable Karkraft to further improve service to its customers. As Karkraft continue to grow sales of all PPG product brands these van will carry the PPG and Selemix branding.

Karkraft offer a twice daily delivery from their depot in Newtownabbey across the whole of the Northern Ireland, so keep an eye out for our team and the new and very distinctive livery.

■

garagetrader - 33

GTTIMING BELTS

Timing Belt changes for the wary by malcolm short, technical services manager, schaeffler automotive aftermarket (uk) ltd

L

ove them or hate them, timing belt changes are not getting any easier. We can probably all admit to having got it wrong at least once and being presented with the obligatory blown up latex glove labelled “bag of compression”. So here are some hints and tips from INA the largest belt component supplier in Europe to avoid the costly mistakes.

Step 1 Plan the job The engine should be at room temperature when setting the belt tension. To put it simply, as the engine gets hotter it expands, so setting the belt tension of a cold belt on a hot engine will mean it is loose when it is cold and not as tight as the vehicle manufacturer’s process specified when hot. A cold engine is what we call in the trade a datum, a constant that we should all stick to. It sounds easy but getting the engine at room temperature before you set the belt tension can be tricky especially if it’s a quick job and the customer has driven 10 miles to get to you. So make sure you get a tea break or lunchtime in the process or better still get it on the ramp the night before.

Always change all the pulleys and tensioners. INA tensioner sets & kits contain all OE components and all the bits you need to change the timing belt.

Think about Front End Auxiliary Drive (FEAD) components. You have to remove most of them to get to the timing belt, they have done the same mileage as the timing belt and

they can do as much damage as a timing belt if they fail, so why not change them at the same time?

Michael Short

Step 2 Read the instructions Some garages believe that vehicle manufacturers (VMs) dream up a complicated process to deter independent garages from doing the work. It is certainly working but they don’t do it for that reason. VMs will start from the position “I need X tension to make sure the belt doesn’t fall off until the scheduled belt change” they will then develop a process that gets them there as quickly and as accurately as possible, repeatedly. Remember they have to do the same as you on a moving production line and are doing it hundreds of times a day. Admittedly you have a car hiding all the bits you need to get to but think of it like this, if it will be OK if you miss a few bits out of the process don’t you think the VM would have done it like that?

Step 3 Read the instructions again This time thinking about if it actually tells you how to replace all the pulleys and tensioner, remember some of the OE processes you have access to in aftermarket publications may not give you enough information to change the tensioner. Rover KV6 is a good example. If you follow the OE instructions with a new tensioner, it comes loose and you bend valves. Another good example is the Vauxhall Corsa 1.7 CDTi where it says retract the tensioner from the belt

and lock it and after fitting the new belt just let it go, but if you have the new tensioner in your hand which way do you turn it? If you have not got enough information call our technical hotline (Tel: 08457 001100).

Step 4 Special Tools For the same reasons in Step 2 VMs will develop an accurate timing process and tools that produce The FIP pulley banana slots.

Any oil or water leaks must be repaired during a belt change.

34 - garagetrader

repeatable engine or fuel pump timing in a production environment to give maximum performance and minimum emissions every single time. If that involves some expensive special tools then that is what is required and a bottle of Tippex just won’t give the same results!

Step 5 Repair leaks Timing belts and tensioners that

TIMING BELTSGT

use friction washers to damp out vibrations don’t like oil or water, leaving a leaking oil seal or a leaking water pump is not doing your customer a favour, you are risking total engine failure. A £2 seal and a few minutes work would be doing your customer a favour.

Step 6 Understanding “free wheeling cam pulleys” One of the most common mistakes, usually due to lack of timing pins or tools, is to not lock the cams and loosen the cam pulleys instead using the “universal timing tool” Tippex to guess the valve timing. Unfortunately when it comes to tensioning the belt not having loose pulleys means you will have a loose side of the belt and a tight side of the belt. Unfortunately the tensioner is usually on the slack side so setting the belt tension in this condition will result in an overtensioned belt.

With the camshafts locked and the pulley’s loose means you have an even tension all around the belt (which is how the VM intended you to tension the belt). The same can apply to fuel injection pumps which when pinned the pulleys can be slackened on banana slots allowing

some free movement of the belt.

A quality torque wrench is essential.

Step 7 Turn the tensioner the right way Relates to step 3 but some tensioners are not marked and weirdly you turn it one way and the pointer goes in the opposite direction (just to confuse you). Read the instructions carefully and if you are not sure or it’s not clear ask.

Step 8 Torque wrenches and torque values are vital pieces of kit when it comes to replacing timing and auxiliary belts and their associated tensioners and guide pulleys etc.

With belt loads increasing and space reducing some of these components are expected to perform harder than ever before.

Not using a torque wrench can prove fatal to an engine if the bolt breaks.

Final Step Always turn the engine over by hand after the process to make sure it turns ok. If possible it’s also a good idea to leave the belt cover off so you can see whether the belt sits nicely on the pulleys when running before rebuilding it fully. ■

New tensioner parts for 6 million vehicles from INA

N

ew INA tensioner parts for nearly 6.4 million additional vehicles were released by Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK) Ltd during 2013.

The new part numbers available now in the independent automotive aftermarket extend INA’s leading position in the sector with the range set to grow even further over the next 12 months.

Recent new INA additions have been released for a wide variety of significant models in the UK and Ireland market-places.

A v-ribbed belt tensioner has been released for vehicles that include the Ford Focus III, powered by the innovative 1.6 EcoBoost engine, 04/2011-.

More than two million of the fuel-saving EcoBoost engines have now been produced globally since launch and last year INA introduced additions to its Over Running Alternator Pulleys (OAPs) range for Ford vehicles including the Focus II 1.6 TDCi 11/2004-2011, Fiesta VI 1.6 TDCi 10/2008-, and Focus III/CMax/Galaxy 1.6 EcoBoost 04/2011-.

OAPs are an integral part of the Front End Auxiliary Drive system (FEAD) and are designed to absorb vibrations and fluctuations in the FEAD. More than 150 million units have been produced since being launched in 1995 with every fifth car driving on the world’s roads being fitted with one.

Other major new INA releases include a timing belt kit and timing belt set for VAG vehicles including the SEAT Mii (KF 1) 1.0 Ecofuel 11/2012-, Skoda Citigo 1.0 10/2011-, and VW Up 1.0 Ecofuel 11/2012-, a timing belt kit and set for the Audi Q7 3.0 TDI and 3.0 V6 TDI 11/2007-, and A4 Quattro (8K2) 3.0 TDI 11/2007-, plus a v ribbed belt tensioner for the Audi A5 Cabriolet (8F7) S5

Quattro 06/2009-.

There’s also a v ribbed belt tensioner for more than 71,000 vehicles including the popular BMW 3 (E90) 320d 01/2005-12/2011, and also a v ribbed belt tensioner for the eco-friendly Honda Insight (ZE) 1.3 Hybrid, 04/2009-.

However, it is not just passenger cars that are catered for by new INA part numbers. A v ribbed belt tensioner is now available for more than 210,000 vehicles including the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Viano and Vito 2.2CDi vans, 06/2003-.

Malcolm Short, Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK) Ltd Technical Services Manager, said: “The INA parts released into the independent automotive aftermarket include some major new additions. For example, we have added new part numbers to our INA range for such innovative vehicles as those powered by Ford’s groundbreaking 1.6 EcoBoost and there are also new additions for the Honda Insight and eco-friendly city cars.

“This is yet another example of how INA products are designed to deal with the on-going new technology that continues to be introduced by the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers.

“In addition, our ranges for VAG models and the ever-popular BMW 3 Series have also been extended, while there is a major new addition for Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, Viano and Vito vans which are such favourites with commercial vehicle operators.” ■ garagetrader - 35

GTTIMING BELTS

Dayco:

One Name, One Image, One Standard D

ayco is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of original equipment (OE) power transmission components, supplying multiple vehicle manufacturers (VMs) from Alfa Romeo to VW. The interaction between its OE and aftermarket divisions has always been close, but through its one branding philosophy it is now being drawn even closer.

Dayco’s manufacturing processes do not vary between its OE and aftermarket production, so what is delivered to the VMs is precisely the same product as delivered by independent factors when they supply

36 - garagetrader

a Dayco timing belt kit or auxiliary belt to their garage customers.

Technicians, above all members of the trade, need to have confidence in the quality of the components they install on the vehicles they service.

Every month they will becoming more aware that a growing number of their customers vehicles are fitted with ‘white’ timing belts and irrespective of the marque to which they are fitted, these belts will be Dayco.

Dayco has developed the twin spiralled glass-fibre cord technology, which is wound into the core of these belts to give them their incredible

TIMING BELTSGT

tensional strength and the patented PTFE/cotton fabric coating on their teeth that reduces friction and pulley wear and gives these High Tenacity (HT) belts as they are officially known, their instantly recognisable appearance.

Therefore, when a technician undertakes a timing belt replacement, they need to beware of imitations because the only genuine like-for-like aftermarket replacement for a ‘white’ timing belt is a Dayco HT timing belt kit!

An additional benefit that results from installing a Dayco HT kit comes in the form of the warranty the product affords both the garage and their customers.

A Dayco HT kit already comes with a class-leading standard warranty of two years, but this warranty can be extended to three years through the company’s globally operated Long Life + 1 Year warranty scheme.

Supporting The Garage Although premium quality products are vital to complete a first rate job, they are of course just one side of the equation. The other necessity is a skilled technician, equipped with the correct tools and the knowledge to make the correct installation.

In order to minimise installation problems, every Dayco timing belt kit that has been subject to a change to

its components or needs specific fitting instructions, is issued with a technical bulletin, which is accessed through a QR Code on the box. With this code, technicians can easily find the information that highlights the specific fitting challenge and explains the correct installation process.

However, to further support technicians Dayco is increasing the level of technical information it provides to the trade through a number of measures. These include a drive to encourage technicians to sign up to its web-based restricted garage area www.daycogarage.com where they can find among other resources, technical information specific to vehicle applications, general product focused service information, drive system layouts and Dayco’s electronic catalogue. The respondents will then also receive email updates when new technical information is issued and for new-to-range additions.

On top of this activity, Dayco will also actively distribute its technical information throughout the trade media to play its part to help raise standards across the industry.

For further information on the full Dayco programme contact Team P R Reilly on 003531 8320006 or email sales@team.ie ■

Gates OE Success Behind Latest Media Campaign

O

E success will be the driving force behind the 2014 automotive aftermarket promotional campaign from Gates. “They trust our metals and belts. Isn’t it time you did too?” will be a theme that features prominently in trade media throughout Europe.

A new colour poster, which will be widely distributed to motor factors and garages, has been designed to support the move. The poster features more than 30 high profile vehicle marques, but as the caption

points out, the Gates OE success story includes “many more”.

“OE success provides the best possible platform for the growth of a credible, balanced and well targeted aftermarket product range,” says Taco Homan, Gates regional sales manager for the UK and Ireland.

Gates is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of belts and tensioning systems and says the OE parts installed varies from model to model. ■

ContiTech improves Timing Belt Change Sticker N

o smearing, clear instructions and excellent adhesion – the ContiTech Power Transmission Group has redesigned the sticker on which workshops record when a timing belt was changed.

The sticker adheres well – even in the engine compartment. It is made of a high-quality foil material which protects the printing against moisture, soiling and premature fading. In addition to the kilometer or mileage reading and the change date of the ContiTech timing belt, it is now also possible to indicate which other components were replaced by placing a check mark against them. Workshops therefore always have a clear picture of what has been changed. Images on the back explain how to use the service sticker.

The ContiTech Power Transmission Group supplies the language-neutral sticker with all its timing belts and timing belt kits. ■ garagetrader - 37

GTTECH TIPS

FAG Gen 2 Bearing replacement T

here are now many different designs of wheel bearing; single row ball and tapered roller bearings, double row ball (Gen 1), double row tapered roller bearings (Gen 1T) and hub units.

One design not listed above is the FAG Generation 2 bearing, which is fitted as original equipment to many popular modern vehicles, with a growing UK parc numbering more than fifteen million.

The Gen 2 bearing is predominantly fitted to models made by Ford, Land Rover, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Smart, Volkswagen Audi Group, and Volvo.

At first glance the construction appears simple, a pre-assembled unit consisting of a hub flange combined with a Gen 1 bearing.

Most of the applications covered

by Gen 2 bearings also require an encoder seal to be incorporated into the bearing, which sends a signal to the ECU to allow the activation of on-board safety critical systems such as anti-lock brakes (ABS), traction control (ASR) and electronic stability programmes (ESP).

In the image you will notice a metal pressing located towards the flange on the bearing. This is a retaining ring which clips into a locating groove in the hub when the bearing is pressed fully home, securing it in place much like a circlip. When the bearing has been fully pressed into the hub it cannot be removed without damaging the retaining ring, so care must be taken to ensure that it is fitted correctly first time. â–

Bearing showing retaining ring

If you try and fit the bearing by pressing it into the hub using the drive flange you are liable to damage the raceway leading to premature bearing failure and run the risk of the retaining ring not being located correctly. Because of the specific Gen 2 bearing design and the possibility of damage during fitment, specially designed tools are required to mount the bearing correctly.

The special tool consists of a twopiece collar supplied in a range of sizes to suit different Gen 2 bearings.

The fitting tool collar sits in the space

between the rear of the hub flange and the retaining ring (see the image below). Once fitted the collar allows all of the force applied to be evenly distributed through the outer race when pressing the bearing into the hub (or knuckle). As well as ensuring safe fitment, another major advantage of using the correct tools is that the hub/knuckle does not have to be removed to allow the bearing to be fitted.

Tool kits specifically for Gen 2 bearings are available from Hazet, Klann and Sykes Pickavant. â–

Fitting tool collar fitted to bearing

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK)’s FAG, LuK clutch and INA tensioner brands are supported by technical support and repair installation tips through the RepXpert website (www.RepXpert.com) and a technical hotline; UK Tel: 08457 001100, Ireland Tel: +44 (0)1432 264264.

Tool kit specifically designed for Gen 2 bearing fitment

38 - garagetrader

NEWSGT

Irish Motor industry Awards Night Frank Bryne from Galway received the Bodyshop of the Year Award. Also included are Paul Linders, Alan Nolan of the SIMI and Paul Smith of Castrol Ireland

T

he fourth SIMI Irish Motor Industry Awards took place recently in the DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, Dublin 4 in conjunction with the SIMI Annual Dinner.

The Awards, in partnership with Castrol, celebrate best practice in the Irish motor industry, acknowledge the work and successful achievements of SIMI members during these tough economic times. Celebrating everything that is good about the automotive trade, the awards are open to the widest possible crosssection of the Irish motor industry.

All businesses from across the motor industry are invited to enter the awards, which aim to celebrate the industry leaders and recognise the amazing achievements made by these businesses over the last 12 months. ■ ■

The winners of the SIMI Irish Motor Industry Awards were: Franchised Sales Operation of the Year: Frank Keane Volkswagen, Dublin Franchised Aftersales Operation of the Year: Holcroft Motors, Drogheda Bodyshop of the Year: Frank Byrnes Autobody Repairs, Oranmore Independent Operation of the Year: Naas Gearbox Centre, Naas Outstanding Achievement Award: Rosemary Smith

Rally driver Rosemary Smith received the Outstanding Achievement Award.

The Independent Operation of the Year Award went to Naas Gearbox Centre.

Volkswagen dealers Frank Keane, Dublin won the Franchised Sales Operations of the Year.

The team at Holcroft Motors in Drogheda won the Franchised Aftersales Award.

garagetrader - 39

REFINISHGT

Farécla launches new improved G3 Ultra Premium Compounding System

L

eading compound and refinishing manufacturer, Farécla Products, has enhanced the performance of its G3 Ultra Premium Compounding System with a new formulation which has already been adopted at a number of premier bodyshops around the country with great success.

“We always listen to what our customers tell us and we are delighted to have upgraded the original formula to offer bodyshops a compound that will meet their needs and surpass their expectations in terms of consistency of cut, better gloss and ease of use,” said Rob Wilkinson, Technical Director, Farécla Products.

“G3 Ultra performance relies on its advanced and complex emulsion system called Fluid Dynamic Technology, which allows the abrasive particles to work smarter.

However, in some circumstances the foam pad could soften

resulting in a loss of cut apparently, although this wasn’t actually from the compound itself. The new formulation has changed the emulsion system to restore consistent cutting performance to the foam and compound combination. We recommend the soft Red Waffle Pad for second step polishing with G3 Fine, although the firmer Yellow Waffle Pad will be retained in the range for use if needed on harder, non-fresh paint.”

The new packs have also been enhanced to feature colour-coded caps, i.e. blue for G3 Ultra and grey for G3 Fine, for easier, seeat-a-glance identification and to distinguish the new G3 Ultra Compounding System from its predecessor (which had white caps).

As a result of the improvements to the Premium System G3 Finish will still be available but not promoted as an integral part of the system.

“In revising the formulation we

have achieved consistency of cut at or above the level of the best in the market – and with better gloss and greater ease of use than competitor products,” said Rob. “We have also revised the price to ensure that new G3 Ultra delivers not only the best

Farécla G Sand fine abrasives in samples wallet

F

arécla Products have put together a selection of their G Sand fine abrasives in a convenient size sample wallet.

The special wallets have been designed to help the sales team demonstrate the benefits of the polishing system and enable bodyshops who haven’t yet tried the G Sand abrasives to experience the unique qualities of this new, updated range for themselves.

Each wallet contains three 6” 7-hole film-backed discs

with their unique anti-clogging coating (P1500, P2000 and a blending disc), a 6” P3000 foam-backed abrasive disc for use on scratch resistant clearcoats and older paint, plus two waterproof half sheets (P2000 and P1500) for denibbing.

G Sand abrasives offer unrivalled cut and durability, but also very importantly leave a very even and pigtail free surface. The discs feature resin bond adhesion technology - to prevent rogue scratches caused by shelling - and an improved anti-clogging layer, known as the stearate. By preventing the disc from getting blocked with debris, this layer helps get the maximum abrasion from the mineral particles as they wear down, making the disc last longer.

The consistent scratch

pattern left by G Sand is the perfect platform for the new G3 premium polishing range, enabling the operative to effortlessly achieve a flawless gloss finish in less time and at lower cost per sold hour.

Bodyshops who have switched to the Farécla G Sand abrasives, including some big industry names, have been won over by the technical advantages of the system which include less downtime changing discs, faster polishing and significant cost savings.

Rob Wilkinson, Technical Director, Farécla UK commented: The high tech qualities of the G Sand range of fine abrasives are starting to gain the recognition they deserve. They are proven to reduce polishing time and combine with Farécla’s Premium Polishing System to offer bodyshops a superior and costeffective system for paint defect rectification. Whatever the paintwork, the complete system consistently delivers a great final finish that is permanent – so avoiding costly reworks.” ■

quality finish, but also offers superb value for money.”

The new compounding system combines with Farécla’s G Sand fine abrasives to form a complete costeffective system for blending and post-paint defect rectification. ■

Farécla strengthens sales team structure with key promotions

Keith Parvin

Dave Bingham

F

arécla has announced changes to its UK sales team structure. Keith Parvin is promoted to Head of Business, UK & Ireland and Dave Bingham is promoted to the position of National Field Sales Manager, with all six Area Technical Sales Managers reporting to him.

Commenting on the changes Jérôme Debouté, General Manager, Europe Africa & Middle East said: “Given the shifting distribution and bodyshop landscape in today’s UK market we have changed our structure to meet the evolving needs of our customer base. The new structure sees us positioned to seize new growth opportunities in the market especially with our new G3 Ultra polishing system.” ■

garagetrader - 41

GTREFINISH

Black and

still the most popular colours A

xalta Coating Systems has published its annual automotive color popularity report for 2013. The report, produced since 1953, is the most comprehensive in the industry as regional automotive market colour preferences are continuously tracked.

“Our customers count on our data every year to drive market decisions,” explained David Fischer, Vice President of Axalta’s global OEM business. “Our global team of color specialists relies on our advanced forecasting to formulate the next generation of coating colours.

The result is an ever-evolving color palette for automotive designers.

As the industry continues to evolve and strives to innovate for customers worldwide, Axalta is committed to partnering with our customers to provide the best possible coatings available.”

White strengthened its position as the most popular automotive colour among consumers worldwide in 2013, growing in popularity by six

percent over the previous year. Black was the second most popular colour globally, with 20 percent of sales, but effect black was preferred more than solid black. Silver at 15 percent and grey at 12 percent waned in popularity, while red held steady at eight percent. Blue and brown/beige each held five percent of the global market. The remaining color choices revealed low popularity for green, orange, purples and other colors, although there was a small increase in the yellow/gold area.

With this wealth of knowledge on OEM color trends, Axalta’s three global refinish brands – Cromax, Spies Hecker and Standox – are able to react quickly. New refinish colour formulas are created very fast and delivered to the refinish brands’ bodyshops via the innovative colourmatching tools. For these bodyshops, immediate access to refinish colour and repair techniques is vital to ensure productivity and correct-firsttime repairs. ■

Standox launches new CV product catalogue

A

s well as updating its current passenger car product catalogue, Standox has introduced a new CV product catalogue for bodyshops.

Jodie Henly, Standox UK brand specialist, says, “we decided to create a separate catalogue for Standofleet CV products.

Refinishers already know they can rely on our products to get the best results. With the introduction of this catalogue, we have made it much easier for bodyshops specialising in CV repairs to identify the right Standofleet product quickly and accurately.”

In addition to listing all product types in clearly indicated sections, the 20-page catalogue also features a number of easy-to-follow repair process tables. These are divided into Bodywork, Buses, Side Boards, Truck-Cabs/Vans and Chassis as well as the various materials involved in each, such as steel, hard aluminium and fibre glass. Each stage of the repair process is clearly set out, from primer to clearcoat, and the correct product for use is indicated. ■

Daimler gives worldwide approval of ppg’s new matt clearcoats P

PG Automotive Refinish has announced the approval by Daimler AG of its new matt clearcoats D8115/D8117 for use on all Daimler AG matt finished passenger cars worldwide using PPG’s unique “Dual Clear Repair Process”, recently validated by Mercedes-Benz.

Full body matt clears have increased in popularity in recent years and have continually proven technically complex to repair with the perfect level of matt effect, especially when dealing with black and other very dark colours.

Often minor damage has had to be repaired by painting full panels in basecoat and clearcoat, or even by painting the whole side of the vehicle. The Dual Clear process now allows the basecoat to be blended which significantly reduces the required repair area, bringing the process back into more conventional dimensions.

Demonstrated to Daimler AG on a matt black bodyshell in Hilden, the Dual Clear process, 42 - garagetrader

designed by PPG, uses a glossy clearcoat as the first coat of clearcoat followed immediately by a second coat based on a blend of two new clearcoats, D8115/D8117. This provides a match to the original colour while providing an even level of mattness across the repair area. The two new matt clearcoats, one semi-gloss and one fully-matt, were specially developed to provide the end user with the full flexibility in blending the clearcoats together to achieve a perfect match to original matt finishes. This approach can be used on all colours to achieve an effective repair right first time, and is a key step in the efficient repair process for darker colours such as Black MB Nachtschwarz.

PPG is first to market to recommend this process together with its market leading matt clearcoats for repairing a wide range of gloss levels on matt and semi-matt full body colours.

Bodyshops will benefit greatly as the application and blending of the basecoat can still be carried

out using existing processes, saving time and increasing efficiency over the methods employed until now. The process provides an accurate match on the most difficult full body matt colours, such as matt black. This creates a significantly easier, more effective and more efficient process for matching the original finish and has brought the overall repair process time in line with conventional repairs. ■

REFINISHGT

Practical tips from Standox

How to save energy in the bodyshop E

nergy costs have been increasing for years and are still continuing to rise. Energy saving in the bodyshop is therefore an important issue and Standox has come up with five easy to implement, cost-cutting tips for bodyshops to follow.

Jodie Henly, Standox brand specialist, says, “energy saving measures don’t have to involve a large financial investment. We’ve put these tips together to show that sometimes just a few simple changes can make a huge difference. We’ve found that bodyshops can cut up to 30% off their energy bills by following this advice.”

Tip 1: Use the waste heat from the air compressor.

Air compressors are real energy guzzlers. They only transform 10 to 15 per cent of the energy consumed into compressed air. The rest is lost in the form of heat. This waste heat can be used to heat the bodyshop or communal areas. The pressure system and all pressurised tools should be regularly checked and tested for leaks or damage. Even the smallest hole in a pipe can cost money. The compressor should always be switched off at the end of the day.

Tip 2: Replace old light bulbs.

Potential savings that can be made from lighting are frequently underestimated. The traditional 72-Watt fluorescent-strip lighting still used in many large bodyshops consumes nearly as much energy as a 40-inch LCD television. Switch to the more economical LEDs. They only consume 24 Watts and give the same amount of light.

Tip 3: Check the paint booth.

Modern paint booths are relatively economical, but older models often account for a large proportion of the electricity bill. Nonetheless, it isn’t always cost-effective to invest in new equipment. A better solution might be to upgrade existing paint booths by installing a heat recovery system. Then, heat that would be emitted, unused, in a conventional booth, can be recycled to heat it.

Another very effective option is to fit new electronic controls. Booths that can only be switched on or off are frequently heated unnecessarily to very high temperatures. Intelligent heating controls for separate areas of the booth can save up to 40 per cent energy. If you have an older booth, seek advice from an expert.

Tip 4: Make changes throughout the bodyshop.

Use the energy saving function on printers, computers and copiers and don’t leave equipment on standby overnight, but switch it off. When buying electronic equipment for the office, look out for energy efficiency ratings. Use energy-saving light bulbs in office and staff areas, and in the bodyshop reception – they will pay off if the lights are on for more than an hour a day. Lighting activated by

motion sensors is worthwhile in areas such as the warehouse, corridors and in changing rooms.

Tip 5: Get your employees on board.

Experience shows that simply a more efficient use of energy can save a 10-man bodyshop an average £1,250 a year. Raising awareness amongst employees doesn’t cost anything, but can be very effective. ■

Praise for AkzoNobel as coatings withstand rigours of Motorrad test

Cromax adds new PowerTint to Imron Fleet Line portfolio

A

C

kzoNobel’s outstanding coatings drew praise from a leading German motorbike magazine Motorrad following a rigorous long-distance road test of a Honda CBR600F. The bike was subjected to a 50,000km test, after which it was taken apart so that any wear and tear could be assessed.

Following the checks, the magazine confirmed that: “The paint and surfaces were immaculate. No rust was in evidence at all and all parts demonstrated great product quality. The piston, cylinder and valves all looked brand new.”

AkzoNobel Specialty Finishes has been the major coatings supplier at the Honda Atessa site in Italy, where the CBR600F is produced, for more than 20 years.

AkzoNobel Sales Manager Agostino Nicora said: “The Honda CBR600F has been put through this test over the last two years and passed with flying colors. The result is testament to the superior quality of both Honda and AkzoNobel products – we are proud to be associated with such a renowned vehicle manufacturer and delighted to play a part in their continued success.”

Not a single defect or unscheduled stop was recorded during the Honda CBR600F test, putting it at the top of Motorrad’s all-time long-term test list. ■

romax, formerly known as DuPont Refinish, has introduced a new PowerTint – PT156 Clean Orange - to it’s Imron Fleet Line offering. PT156 Clean Orange gives refinishers the ability to match brilliant orange colours perfectly, while at the same time achieving optimum hiding and durability.

This new tint has been developed to help those refinishers who specifically need to achieve brilliant orange colours without the use of lead pigments, which were discontinued in all of the Cromax brand’s products by the end of 2012.

In line with the Cromax brand ethos of productivity, PT156 Clean Orange can be used in conjunction with ValueShade - the Cromax concept which associates every topcoat colour with one of seven shades of grey to optimise topcoat coverage and lower paint consumption.

For Technical Data Sheets or more information, please visit www. dupontrefinish.co.uk ■

garagetrader - 43

GTVEHICLE

The alpha to omega guide to Lambda sensors... by tim howes, deputy general manager, supply chain & technical service, ngk spark plugs (uk) ltd

T

he term Lambda is used to designate the value of the ratio of the mass of air supplied to an engine divided by the theoretical ideal requirement. That sounds very grand but essentially means that if the engine is supplied with a fuel rich mixture it would have a Lambda reading of less than 1.0 Lambda and if it was supplied with a fuel lean mixture it would have reading greater than 1.0 Lambda. In most cases the basic function of a Lambda sensor is to ensure that the fuelling system supplies the engine with a mixture as close to 1.0 Lambda as possible.

Most engines needs to be supplied with this 1.0 Lambda mixture because it is the ratio of fuel and air that produces the most complete combustion thereby providing an efficient use of fuel and the resultant exhaust gases can be dealt with effectively by a three way catalytic converter. This theoretically ideal ratio is called a stoichiometric mixture and for a standard petrol engine the air/ fuel ratio is 14.7:1 by mass.

Sensors achieve this control by measuring the residual oxygen content of the exhaust gas before it enters the catalyst; this is why Lambda sensors are also and more correctly known as exhaust gas oxygen sensors (EGO). An oxygen concentration outside certain limits will result in the sensor signaling the ECU to amend the 44 - garagetrader

fuelling system calibration thus bringing the mixture back into acceptable limits.

There are several different types of oxygen sensor in use but for the majority of cars there are two non-interchangeable sensor types, using a different strategy to detect the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas. By far the most popular is the Zirconia type.

Under the protective metal end cap there is a thimble shaped ceramic element made from sintered zirconium dioxide. This has two thin micro porous platinum layers added, one covering the inside and one covering the outside. These layers are the electrodes to which the signal wires are attached. On top of the outer layer a further porous ceramic layer is added (aluminium and magnesium oxide) which protects the platinum from dissociation and erosion by the hot exhaust gases.

The whole package is then fitted into a metal shell part of which is threaded to allow fitment to the exhaust system.

This element is inserted into a convenient part of the exhaust system up stream of the catalyst.

The heat energy imparted by the exhaust gases will raise the temperature of the sensor. When 300°C is reached the Zirconia ceramic has a special property in that it becomes ‘permeable’ and will allow oxygen ions to pass through it. The centre of the thimble shaped ceramic element is hollow.

This is to allow a pocket of ambient air to act as a reference gas.

In theory a stoichiometric combustion gas will have no oxygen present however in practice small levels of oxygen are present. In an attempt to maintain equilibrium, oxygen ions will migrate through the permeable ceramic and platinum layers. The movement of these ions cause a voltage to be generated, put simply, the sensor behaves like a small battery with the Zirconia acting as the electrolyte. In this way the voltage output is relative to the oxygen concentration in the exhaust gas.

Lean air fuel mixtures result in relatively small amounts of ionic movement due to the oxygen rich environment of the exhaust gas whereas rich mixtures are deficient in oxygen, resulting in larger ionic movement as the sensor tries to achieve equilibrium across the element.

Around the stoichiometric point (1.0 Lambda) there is an abrupt and dramatic change in oxygen concentration producing a large differential between exhaust gas and the reference air. This in turn produces a relatively large change in voltage. This voltage is the signal which is sent to the fuelling control system enabling an adjustment to bring the air/fuel ratio back into the acceptable window around 1.0 Lambda. There is a natural tendency for the fuel system to overshoot the desired window.

Therefore the voltage output cycles - fuel lean/fuel rich between a minimum and maximum value - nominally 0.1 V ~ 0.9 V. This occurs with a frequency of 1~2 Hz. If a gas analysis is carried out the reading may fluctuate between 0.9 Lambda and 1.1 Lambda.

Because the sensor has to reach 300°C before it starts to function there is a period after start up which is not controlled by the Lambda sensor. To combat this it is desirable to install the sensor as near to the engine as is practical. Under certain conditions exhaust gas temperatures can drop sufficiently to impair the function of an unheated sensor.

A solution to both problems is to use a heater inside the sensor which rapidly brings the ceramic up to temperature. Heated sensors (HEGO) are therefore particularly desirable when trying to reduce noxious gas emissions. Most contemporary engine control systems are designed to work with heated sensors.

The less common Titania sensors have a similar appearance but work in a different way. They use a layered titanium dioxide ceramic element with its electrodes sandwiched in between. At a critical point around 1.0 Lambda the Titania ceramic possesses the property whereby its electrical resistance changes substantially. If a small voltage is applied (typically

VEHICLEGT

5 V) by the vehicles control system this change in resistance can be used to adjust the fuelling, keeping the exhaust gases within the desired limits. These sensors do not need access to ambient reference air.

Titania sensors are more expensive to produce but reach operating temperature faster; reaction times are faster and can be made physically smaller.

The sensor’s ceramic element requires a high degree of protection.

This is provided by the metal end cap which has specially designed holes to allow a good flow of exhaust gas whilst preventing impact damage, water splash and extremes of temperature. Total protection against leaded fuel and some other air borne compounds cannot be provided. These unfriendly compounds can poison the sensor, slowing or preventing its operation.

There are some systems that allow the engine to run on considerably leaner mixtures under certain conditions and these require a special type of oxygen sensor called a wide band or broad band sensor. These are much more complex in operation with very sophisticated control

BG Products now available in NI

B

mechanisms.

In addition, most road vehicles also have a second sensor fitted after the catalyst. This functions in the same way but is used to monitor the effectiveness of the catalyst and is often referred to as the CMS (catalyst monitoring sensor) or diagnostic sensor; this usually plays little part in regulating the fuelling system but can, on some applications, detect catalyst ageing and allow calibration changes to accommodate.

For more information about NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, its products and services, please visit the website at www.ngkntk.co.uk ■

G Products, the American market leader in automotive maintenance services is now available in Northern Ireland.

Founded in 1971 and based in Wichita Kansas, BG Products are used in more than 100,000 workshops worldwide every day. In the USA, BG’s 44K and Diesel 244 Fuel System Cleaners are the market leaders among professionals, outselling the nearest competitor by a factor of 3:1.

Over the years BG Products has developed many award winning tools, most successful of these in the U.K. being the Diesel Induction ( EGR & Intake manifold ) Tool. This has been particularly successful due to the increasing need to keep the fuel and induction systems clean, workshops are seeing significantly more drivability issues as a result of deposits forming in these areas. Reduced fuel economy, increased emissions and decrease in power output are common indicators of deposit build up in these areas, often resulting in blocked DPFs. These deposits can be caused by a number of issues, using incorrect oil, poor fuel, driving conditions, and lack of regular servicing. BG Products recommend their premium service kit at regular service intervals part number 6568E, which is made up of three products our 109E, 112E & 244E. to combat these problems.

Used in conjunction with BG’s Diesel Induction service, this completes the total clean up on the vehicle, cleaning the induction system, fuel system and crankcase and offers increased fuel economy, reduced emissions and increased horsepower. The most significant benefit of this service is because of the reduced deposits in the manifold and induction system there is a dramatic reduction in the need for the DPF to regenerate, this has the benefit of both fuel saving and extends the life of the DPF. For more information on the BG Product range, please phone for a consultation with a BG Representative on 003531 8215089 or visit our website www.bgprod.ie ■

Agent - Distributor required in Northern Ireland for:

BG Products provides the highest quality products and equipment to automotive professionals so they can perform necessary maintenance services on consumer vehicles.

• This is an exciting opportunity to develop a top brand in the Automotive industry. BG have a worldwide reputation for Quality and Innovation.

• Automotive industry experience essential.

24hr Recovery, Garage Services and Automatic Transmission Repair Specialists www.burnsidegarge.org.uk

• Excellent income and profit potential is on offer to enthusiastic candidate.

To find out more about this fantastic opportunity contact: Contact Pat Keating 003531 821589 or Email Pat@bgprod.ie

Units 2 & 3, 24 Ballyrashane Road, Coleraine, BT52 3NL www.burnsidegarage.org.uk • info@burnsidegarage.co.uk 0844 414 2471 • From ROI Tel: 048 7032 0723

www.bgprod.ie garagetrader - 45

Sean Bradley

inthedrive • r t

inthedrive rs

e edriv rssea th

In this edition we talk to

in the

driver seat s ve edri rssea th

t•

ersseat • in riv

GT DRIVERSSEAT

ersseat • in riv

• inth ed eat s s

t • inthe sea d

Proprietor, Bradley Autocollision Coleraine

I left school at 15 and started work in an Ulsterbus workshop in Belfast. After that I returned to Portrush and worked in Glenvale Garage body shop, in the days of the good old Austin Allegro a car with an almost square steering wheel. From there I worked in a couple of other local body shops in Coleraine, Leo MaileyWilbert Mitchell.

In 1977 I moved to Belfast and began working for Donald Wright where I remained until 1981. After a brief period working for Denis Mahoney Group in Dublin, I returned again to Portrush and in 1982 I opened my own shop.

Did you plan to get involved in the motor trade?

Not really, I was always interested cars and trucks, things just moved on from there. When you are young and eager you try lots of things, I ended in a body shop.

What do you think are the biggest problems in today’s industry?

Where would you like me to start? I would say it’s the lack of mutual understanding and respect of all parties involved in the body repair sector in N Ireland. We have a lot of talented young people in our industry and I believe it is up to all stakeholders to do what they can to secure their future and provide the motoring public with a service they can rely upon for quality and safe repairs.

What is the best piece of advice?

Treat others the way you would like to be treated yourself.

Who has inspired you?

Tony Benn MP.

What’s the hardest part of your business?

Trying to inform consumers that they have a choice.

What is your greatest achievement?

My wife and our two children and doing the best for my customers.

If you won the lottery, what car would you rush out to buy?

My wife usually does the lottery so I would have to ask her to buy me a McLaren F1.

How do you relax?

Golf and reading.

Tell us something surprising about yourself?

I have never been to a motorsport event of any kind 46 - garagetrader

■

Check Out our Website...

www.garagetrader.co.uk

For Advertising details please contact: Eileen Wilson on 028 9078 3225 email: eileenwilson@greerpublications.com Gladys Greer on 028 9078 3224 email: gladysgreer@greerpubications.com