Gt winter 2014:15

WINTER 2014/15

Racing ahead New car registrations jump 9% as motor industry’s confidence soars

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CONTENTSGT

WINTER 2014/15

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Winter 2014/15

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(See Page 11) TO ADVERTISE IN THE MAGAZINE CALL: (028) 9078 3200 REGARDING EDITORIAL CALL: (028) 9078 3220 General Manager Eileen Wilson eileenwilson@greerpublications.com Editor Pat Burns patburns@greerpublications.com Art Editor Helen Wright Publishers James & Gladys Greer Designed & Produced by Greer Publications Design

(See Page 8)

News...

Vehicle Repair Standard Published...........................................................................................................4 RAC wants partner in Northern Ireland.....................................................................................................5 NI New Car Sales up 9 per cent in 2014....................................................................................................7

Special Features...

Tenneco on Tour stops at Motoglass and Serfac...................................................................................10 Auto Expo Show in Dublin.........................................................................................................................16 Enva Waste Celebrates 40 years in business................................................................................................18 Taking a brake with Ferodo............................................................................................................................20

People...

Two top awards for Riverpark Training.....................................................................................................26 Jim Gourley, CEO of TTS, in the Driver’s Seat...........................................................................................30

7 20

26 30

Greer Publications Ltd, 5B Edgewater Business Park, Belfast Harbour Estate, Belfast, BT3 9JQ Tel: 028 9078 3200 Fax: 028 9078 3210 Greer Publications © 2015. 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.

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here is an air of optimism about the motor and aftermarket trade after some positive news from the SMMT regarding new car sales. Figures released show that new car registrations in Northern Ireland were up over 9 per cent on 2013 and matched the rise in the rest of the UK. While this is a major boost to the new car trade, this uplift filters down throughout the industry and more cars on the road means more work for everyone in the aftermarket and refinish industries.

The impressive Europe-wide Tenneco on Tour visited Ireland just before Christmas, stopping at Motoglass in Belfast and Serfac in Galway and we have photos from both venues, as well as the first ever Auto Expo show in Dublin which proved a great success.

Pat Burns Editor

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

Vehicle Damage Repair Standard Published B

SI, the business standards company, has published BS 10125 Vehicle Damage Repair following its successful transition from the Publicly Available Specification PAS 125 first launched in 2007 and last revised in 2011.The transition to a British Standard reflects the success and maturity of the standard, and the high level of industry consensus developed throughout the life of PAS 125. It follows strong industry support and continued commitment to achieving high quality vehicle repairs, as both business and the consumers recognize the value of conformity to the British Standard, particularly when supported by certification.

The new British Standard supports the vehicle body repair community by ensuring that work undertaken for vehicle damage repair draws on best practice from across the industry. By covering the whole repair service it helps accident repair centres differentiate themselves from their competitors and demonstrate quality, gaining confidence from their customers. It also enables them to show they are committed to the safety of their customers and other road users.

BS 10125 sets out requirements for the processes used in order to carry out safe, quality repairs to accident damaged vehicles; it has been based on PAS 125, integrating the latest in industry good practice, taking into account new technology, materials and safety implications.

Some of the areas covered by BS 10125:

• Replacement parts and controlled consumables • Repair quality control • Repair process management, repair process change, repair process continuity plan and repair process control • Use of subcontractors • Internal audit and corrective action People — recruitment, competence and responsibilities

• Repair process and relevant repair methods

• Requirements regarding the removal, refitting and replacement of windscreens

• Identifying the right equipment and tools - the use of suitable and capable tooling

BS 10125 is relevant for road vehicle bodyshops and accident repair centres, motor insurers,

manufacturers of crash repair parts and components, vehicle manufacturers, road safety agencies and repair equipment manufacturers.

Dan Palmer Head of Market Development for Manufacturing & Services at BSI said: “The benefits of BS 10125 are clear for both the industry and consumers. The new British Standard builds on the success of PAS 125, helping service providers demonstrate that their repair is of high quality. It provides reassurance that the general level of service will be good, strengthening consumer confidence in the industry, particularly where the standard is supported by certification.”

The robust, staged development of a British Standard with full public consultation allowed even broader stakeholder involvement in the development of BS 10125 than had

previously been possible.

Experts from the vehicle repair sector involved in the development of the standard included repairers, insurers, vehicle manufacturers, training organizations, industry bodies, auditing experts and consumer representatives. Some of the organizations involved in the consensus-based development of the new standard included: ABP - Auto Body Professionals Club, Association of British Certification Bodies, Aviva plc, Direct Line Group, Institute of Automotive Engineer Assessors, National Association of Bodyshops, Society of Motor Manufacturers & Traders Limited, Thatcham Research, The Institute of the Motor Industry, Vehicle Builders & Repairers Association and Which?

■

Only Irish dealer to win highest accolade from Volkswagen

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rady’s Volkswagen Arva has been recognised for its excellence among the Volkswagen Group worldwide, Volkswagen, ireland’s leading car brand, was delighted to be represented by Brady’s Arva at the Volkswagen Diamond Pin Awards ceremony which took place in Berlin recently.

Brady’s Arva was awarded the Diamond Pin, which is the highest honour that Volkswagen can bestow on a dealer, for services to the Volkswagen brand in 2014. Brady’s previously won a Gold Pin Award in 2010 and this later win further emphasises Brady’s commitment to outstanding service.

Commenting on the award, Padraig Brady, Managing Director, Brady’s Arva, said,: “We have been a member of the Volkswagen network since 1961, when my father Phil embarked on his exciting and constantly evolving journey. As a result, the two most important components are a dedicated workforce and a loyal customer base and I am delighted to accept this award on behalf of both my staff and customers who have been incredibly supportive of our business.” ■ Dr. Wolf-Stefan Specht, Head of Volkswagen Passenger Cars; Padraig Brady, Managing Director of Brady’s Arva and Mr. Gerrit Helmberg, Regional Manager Sales Europe at Volkswagen AG.

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NEWSGT IN BRIEF

Rac looks for partner in northern ireland

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T

he RAC is looking to award its Dealer Network agency in Northern Ireland to a motivated and well-appointed motor industry professional.

The motoring brand is seeking to capitalise on outstanding year-on-year growth for its dealer initiative in England, Scotland and Wales by expanding its presence into the region.

Mario Dolcezza, Head of Dealer Propositions, said: “During the past two years we have been able to create a compelling consumer proposition for the RAC Dealer Network which has resulted in a significant increase of interest.

“Our aim is to provide national dealer network coverage right across the UK for our 2.1m members and all other motorists. This aspiration very much includes Northern Ireland, where we see considerable potential.

“Since the launch our RAC Dealer Network scheme we have seen year-on-year growth exceeding 30%. We now need an established motor industry professional to work with us to develop our presence in Northern Ireland – someone that understands our brand, the importance of the consumer and the need to drive dealer profitability.”

Mario explained that the RAC was able to offer the right individual a wide range of market-leading consumer proposition supported with high quality marketing materials, strong and effective training support, and easy to use online administration systems.

He said: “Our success with the RAC Dealer Network in recent years has been based on a strong proposition, which inevitably attracts customers to dealers plus, of course, the high level of credibility of the RAC brand.

“Really, we are keen to speak to any parties who believe that they can work with us to maximise the impact of the RAC Dealer Network across Northern Ireland, and would like to start operations early in 2015.” ■

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NEWS

IN BRIEF

NGK Golf Day N

GK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd customers competed in the company’s 23rd Northern Ireland Golf Day at Portstewart Golf Club in an event that saw a hard-fought, but sporting contest for honours.

Overall winner of the prestigious NGK Golf Shield and of the low handicap section was Vincent McCaffery, of Antrim Autoparts, who scored 39 points, pipping Cecil Holmes, from Karkraft Belfast, by a point, with Gary Rodgers, of Ballynahinch Motor Factors, finishing third with 34 points.

David Davidson, of Woodstock Motorparts Belfast, topped the high handicap section with 41 points with Elmer Wallace, of Paints and Components, Ballymoney, on 31

points in second place and Ian Scott, of Carryduff Autoparts – who won the longest drive competition – third with 28 points.

Stewart Neill, Area Manager (Ireland), NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, took the nearest to the pin prize and Tim Ward, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd Deputy General Manager – Sales & Business Development, won the NGK staff prize.

Eric Reid, of Colin Adams Motor Parts, Newtownards, almost achieved his first ever hole in one when his drive at the 17th hole par 3 ended less than one inch from the hole.

Stewart Neill said: “Played on a dry and rather warm day, competition was fierce, but friendly, and everyone had a great time.” ■

NGK staff and competition winners line-up at the prize evening at the Ramada Hotel in Portrush

L-R Robin McMullan, Motorparts Strabane, Eric Reid, Colin Adams, Motor Parts Newtownards, Gary Rodgers, Ballynahinch Motor Factors, and Marko Wowczyna Director – Automotive, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd

L-R Tony Harte, Aiken Autospares, Enniskillen, Sean Slane, Mac Autoparts, Belfast, Alwyn Megarity, A C Components, Portadown, and David Davidson, Woodstock Motorparts, Belfast

L- R Brian Childs, Executive Advisor, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, Elmer Wallace, Paints and Components Ballymoney, Alan Graham, Lagan Motor Factors Lisburn, and Cecil Holmes, Karkraft Belfast

L-R Stewart Neill Area Manager – Ireland NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, Gareth McInytre, Ballymena Engine Spares, Ian Scott, Carryduff Autoparts, and Patrick Cunningham Auto Parts Direct Belfast

L-R Eddie Kobayashi, Managing Director, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, Dermot Haughey, HBA Distribution Keady, Kevin McNeill, JNK Components Ballymena, and Colm Donaghy, North West Motor Factors Limavady

L-R Tim Ward, Deputy General Manager – Sales & Business Development, NGK Spark Plugs (UK) Ltd, Sam McKee, Component Sales Magherafelt, Clive Jardine, Parts Doc Ltd Coleraine, and Vincent McCaffery, Antrim Autoparts

Chevron launches Techron range to Ireland aftermarket T

he latest generation of Techron fuel system cleaners have been unveiled in Ireland, supported by independent test data that shows the real-world benefits of Techron Concentrate Plus and Techron D Concentrate for petrol and diesel engines. For the Irish market, Techron will be distributed through Advance Pitstop.

Unlike some rival products, Techron is a complete fuel system cleaner, instead of just concentrating on a specific element like fuel injectors.

Far from a quick fix to pass the MoT or temporarily solve an issue, a single Techron treatment is designed to work for between 6000 and 8000 miles, or every six months for average drivers.

This approach is both cost effective and more efficient at keeping an engine in good working order.

In order to prove the power of Techron, it was put to a real-world test conducted by leading independent emissions testing service, Emissions 6 - garageTRADER

Analytics, who tested the product using European fuels in European models. A total of 22 common vehicles covering models from BMW to Vauxhall, both petrol and diesel, were tested to establish the impact Techron has on vehicle power, emissions and fuel economy.

In total, over 480 separate emissions test cycles were conducted and approximately 11,000 miles covered during the independent assessment. Under the independent test conditions, the petrol vehicles saw an average improvement in fuel economy of 8.7%, while the tested diesel models improved by an average of 7.6%. The test data also shows improvements to vehicle power of 2.6% in petrol vehicles and 3.4% in diesel, as well as reductions in CO2 emissions of 7.4% and 6.5% respectively.

The way Techron performed in the independent testing shows that the average motorist could make

L-R: Nick Molden (Emissions Analytics), Eddie Ryan (Advance Pitstop), Brian Hayes (Chevron Lubricants), Kathryn Clarke (CC Lubricants), James Welchman (Chevron Lubricants), Andrew Clarke (CC Lubricants).

a significant saving in fuel costs by using it. With one treatment lasting between 6,000 and 10,000 miles, most cars would only need a treatment once a year – which could be applied during scheduled maintenance.

“We are very much looking forward to working with Advance Pitstop for the distribution of Techron in Ireland,” said James Welchman, European marketing manager, Chevron

Lubricants. “The potential benefits of Techron are significant and we believe Advance Pitstop is the right partner to reach the important Irish market.”

Eddie Ryan of Advance Pitstop added: “It is great to be able to bring a product such as Techron to the market, as it is proven to be very effective.

Motorists will instantly be able to see the benefits of using the product, both in terms of vehicle performance, as well as longer-term financial savings.” ■

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NEWSGT IN BRIEF

NI New Car Sales up 9 per cent in 2014 premium brands like BMW in the top ten sales charts. In 2014 the top ten is dominated by small cars and lifestyle SUVs like the Nissan Juke and Qashqai as well as the Renault Captur. While lifestyle vehicles are making an impact on the sales charts, it will be quite a few years yet before any electric vehicles make it in, especially with petrol and diesel getting cheaper.

Petrol cars are making something of a resurgence against diesels although for many new car buyers, it Colin McNab, Operations Director, Charles Hurst Group

N

ew car sales in Northern Ireland rose by 9 per cent in 2014, matching the rest of the UK’s figures.

Total new car registrations in 2014 according to figures released by the SMMT were just over 57,000. While these figures show a significant improvement, new car registrations in NI peaked at 69,000 back in 2007, seven years ago.

It is interesting to note that back in 2007 there would have been

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is still the deal that attracts them and not the car. It is a buyer’s market and there is certainly no shortage of great offers around, according to Northern Ireland’s biggest motor group, Charles Hurst Ltd. Colin McNab, Operations Director for Northern Ireland’s largest car retailer, Charles Hurst, commented: “While economic recovery has undoubtedly played a part in this growth, the sheer volume of incentives and discounts on sales and the wide variety of finance

packages aimed at every budget have been a key catalyst in getting consumers into the showrooms.

“This is good, solid annual performance for Northern Ireland and while pre-recession new car sales of 69,000 registered in 2007 remains some way off, we still expect growth in this market to continue for some time yet.

“As a nation we remain highlyreliant on our cars and newer vehicles are simply cheaper to run, tax and maintain.” ■

Top 10 New Car Registrations in Northern Ireland Rank

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Marque

Ford Volkswagen Ford Volkswagen Vauxhall Nissan Vauxhall Renault Nissan Renault Total top 10 Northern Ireland Grand Total

Range

Fiesta Golf Focus Polo Corsa Qashqai Astra Captur Juke Clio

Year To Date

14,675 57,202

2,259 1,925 1,701 1,451 1,422 1,408 1,376 1,106 1,031 996

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GT

AFTERMARKET

COMLINE / BLUE PRINT / BORG & BECK / TEAM P R REILLY

Steering the right course

Latest Borg & Beck filters

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omline continues its momentum with the expansion of its steering and suspension range.

True to their word, the product development team at Comline continues to work tirelessly to further enhance and expand the steering & suspension range. This sustained focus on this category has seen a further 135 part numbers added to range in recent months and there are currently more than 300 additional numbers in development. These are hugely impressive numbers, especially when you consider that Comline’s first foray into steering and suspension only began in early 2013. This rapid rate of expansion serves to underline the growing strength of the brand and Comline’s determination to make its steering and suspension range one of the very best available on the market.

Despite this speed of development, Comline has been very careful to stay true to its brand ethos of providing high-quality parts and value for money for its customers. Comline steering and suspension components are subject to rigorous quality assurance procedures including raw material analysis, life performance testing and weld penetration testing (to list but a few). Each part is then delivered to market offering genuine value-for-money; something that is assured by the lean, forward-thinking business model that underpins Comline’s entire operation.

The ongoing expansion of its steering and suspension range further demonstrates that Comline is a brand on the rise and, in the face of challenging market conditions, is continuing to steer the right course. ■

Why WD-40 is taking the bike market by storm • WD.40 Bike Degreaser. This solvent based liquid removes dirt, soil and chain lube. The Degreaser outperforms all current leading competitors because it works on impact and requires no rinse. It significantly reduces wear and tear.

• Bike Cleaner has endless versatility and convenient trigger action foam spray. The easy application and quality performance are sure to make it a popular choice.

• Three types of Chain Lubricant. Each one of these offers a different type of protection and will extend the lifespan of the bike chain.

• Wet Lube provides long-lasting chain lubrication by containing the hydrophobic compound PTFE. Rainwater repulsion and corrosion protection earn Wet Lube a space in every bike expert’s kitbag.

• Dry Lube offers the same advantages but for the opposite riding conditions, repelling all the dirt and dust particles that threaten a bike chain’s well-being. WD-40 Bike’s Dry Lube is capable of reaching the most difficult areas, drying almost instantly.

• The All Conditions Lube specializes in long term protection and harmoniously combines the qualities of both the Wet and Dry Lube. It also offers an additional protective film: a vital asset for sustaining peace of mind for bike lovers.

provide quality and range

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he First Line Group (FLG) has launched a range of filters for automotive and light commercial vehicle (LCV) applications, which it has introduced under its renowned Borg & Beck brand and marks another new development in the growing Borg & Beck product portfolio.

The range of almost 500 part numbers includes air, cabin, fuel and oil filters and therefore provides workshops with a comprehensive range of products which will provide the service solution for the vast majority of popular car and LCV applications.

Obviously when it comes to filters, quality is key, which is why in keeping with FLG policy, the entire range is manufactured to its exacting standards and rigorous product testing is carried out to ensure the consistency of performance expected with a premium product.

For more information about the quality products available from the First Line Group, please call the sales team on: 01869 248484 or visit the website: www.firstlineltd.com ■

For more information on the WD-40 Bike range of products and the fantastic launch offer Team P R Reilly contact a member of the sales team at 01 8320006 or sales@team.ie ■

Extra Sensory Perfection T

here’s no escaping the fact that modern vehicles are packed full of electronics, computers and sensors. While this undoubtedly makes things much more complicated, it’s inevitable that these vital components will fail at some point. For years Blue Print have been meticulously developing their range of sensors with the aim of making it the ‘Complete Solution for Asian & American Vehicles’.

The Blue Print range covers ABS, Air Flow/Mass, Camshaft/Crankshaft, Differential Pressure, Temperature, Knock, MAP, Oil Level, Oxygen and Throttle Position sensors, with more being added each month.

Latest additions to the range include sensors for Honda, Hyundai, Nissan, Toyota, Lexus and Suzuki. ■ 8 - garageTRADER

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

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AFTERMARKET

TENNECO

Tenneco on Tour visits Ireland T

wo Tenneco training trucks visited Ireland at the end of November, stopping off at Motoglass in Belfast and Serfac in Galway The main aim of the Tenneco on Tour program is to help professionals understand and prepare for the latest generation of original equipment and aftermarket ride control, emissions control and suspension technologies.

The programme featured two state-of-the-art mobile training vehicles – one equipped with interactive exhibits and product and system displays featuring Tenneco’s latest OE technologies, and the second serving as the Tenneco Vision training platform.

With the help of this platform, the company’s Monroe® and Walker® brands deliver a variety of training modules designed to help workshop professionals broaden their technical knowledge.

The goals of the programme are Informing, Training and Awareness and is described as a concentration of technology, innovation and training to inform distributors and installers. ■

John Dixon, Tenneco; Donie Dillane, Top Part; Graham La Grue, Serfac

Graham LaGrue and Fintan Parsons, Serfac Limited

Conor Creaven, Brendan McDonagh, Tommy Doherty, Partway Motor Factors, Galway

Graham LaGrue & Gillian Fanning, Serfac Limited

Martin Loughran from Motogladd trying his skill on the WRC simulator

David Hawthorne

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Conor Loughran, Norma Skillen

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AFTERMARKETGT

TENNECO

Michael Wylie, Conor Loughran, George Cunningham

Mark Moore, George Cunningham, Stephen From Motoglass, Graham Moore

Mark Fitzsimons

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FOR GENUINE PARTS TO THE TRADE

Contact our Dedicated Northern Ireland Trade Parts Centres on...

Charles Hurst Belfast Parts Hotline: ​028 9038 2100 • Fax No: ​​028 9066 1113 e-mail:​GerryBryans@charleshurstgroup.co.uk Donnelly & Taggart Eglinton ​​​​Parts Hotline: 0 ​ 28 7181 3017 • Fax No:​​028 7181 3023 e-mail​: Brian.lavery@donnellygroup.co.uk Shelbourne Motors Portadown​​ Parts Hotline: ​028 3839 6802 • Fax No: ​​028 3839 6807 e-mail: t​ oyotaparts@shelbournemotors.com​​​​

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GS Batteries launches new range of automotive aftermarket batteries

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S Batteries, a GS Yuasa company, has launched a new range of automotive aftermarket batteries offering over 99.5% vehicle parc coverage with comprehensive customer support including an online fitting system.

Delivering OE quality, performance and specification, the new GS battery range is available in three ranges – Gold, Silver and Bronze – enabling installers and retailers to offer customers a range of solutions when replacing their batteries. The premium Gold range with 14 battery types offers unrivalled levels of performance and extended service life (approximately 50,000 starts and 35% increase in cranking power) enabling excellent opportunities for offering upgrades to customers.

In addition, the GS battery range includes the most comprehensive choice of hybrid and micro hybrid batteries on the European market encompassing AGM (Absorbed Glass Mat) Start Stop Plus and EFB (Enhanced Flooded Battery) Start Stop types alongside eight Japanese EFB models.

The new GS battery range is fully supported with a sophisticated online application and fitting system at batterylookupgb.gs-battery.com that provides VRM, VIN and make/model selection to ensure correct battery choice with repair times and fitting instructions provided for installers. There is also an easy-to-use GS Yu-Fit battery configuration tool that enables straightforward programming of new batteries to a vehicle’s power management system in less than five minutes. ■

Team P R Reilly new Castlebar depot opens

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eam P R Reilly’s expansion continues with the opening of its latest car parts and accessories outlet in Castlebar.

Castlebar is the seventh new Team P R Reilly depot opened in the last twelve months with a further five planned in 2015.

New manager Martin Heneghan has a strong mechanical background. Niall Higgins, working on counter service has over five years’ experience in parts, and Wayne Curtis joins the Van Sales team.

For more information about Team P R Reilly depot locations and products, please contact the Team P R Reilly sales team on 01 8320006 or email sales@ team.ie In addition to being the nation’s largest distributor of car parts and accessories Team P R Reilly have launched a new garage concept website.

The Team AutoCentre website connects the motorist DIRECT to their local garage. Offering car service, crash repairs, NCT services and car valeting Team AutoCentre offers the public a new way to reduce motoring costs. For more information please email tac@team.ie. ■ check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

Gem Oils Ltd Now stocking

Petronas Syntium range

GEM OILS PETRONAS Distributor Cavan (00353) 494378115 sales@gemoils.ie www.gemoils.ie garageTRADER - 13

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AFTERMARKET

REMY, EURO CAR PARTS, KLARIUS

Ford Steering Bulletins from Remy technical information necessary to fit the new product. However, there are certain occasional situations when we are fully aware that these instructions may not be sufficient to clearly solve potential problems. In these situations we therefore prepare a more specialist Technical Bulletin (TB).

“In ten years we have only felt the need to create less than 100 of these. However, we have now felt the need to create TB83 and TB85, which have absolutely nothing whatsoever to do with the remanufacturing process itself. In each case the bulletins relate to non-return valves for Ford applications, plus Ford applications that can be notoriously difficult to bleed the air from the steering system. By following the instructions in the TBs, the installer can be sure that Remy products will operate as they should from the first installation.

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emy Automotive UK Ltd, the UK’s leading automotive parts remanufacturer, has announced the release of two very important Technical Bulletins aimed at helping installers to overcome well-known problems when fitting steering products for notoriously difficult Ford

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applications.

Michael Flensborg, Sales & Marketing Director of Remy Automotive UK Ltd. explains: “With every remanufactured product that we sell, we always install fitting instructions in the box to ensure that the installer has access to all the

“TB85 was created because of a number of pumps being returned under warranty and - on test at our factory - the pumps were deemed as NFF (No Fault Found).

So we investigated this and some of the comments on the warranty returns forms stated things like “Noisy pump”, “Pump getting hot and noisy!” We realized that this was due to lack of fluid within the pump. It was running dry. TB 85 provides the thorough process required for ensuring that all air is bled from the system. It also states that if the pump is noisy after the system is bled then the process should be repeated. It can often take more than two cycles of bleeding the system to ensure that all air is extracted from the system. If the pump is allowed to run dry the internal polished cam will become scored leading to the pumps failure. “ ■

Euro Car Parts goes ‘back to basics’ with new Vista Pro wipers

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uro Car Parts, a leading UK distributor of quality parts for all makes of car and light commercial vehicle (LCV), has introduced a new range of Vista Pro windscreen wipers covering 90% of the flat blade market.

With virtually all European vehicle manufacturers (VMs) now fitting flat blades, this is a fast-growing sector. Responding to customer feedback that the universal clips were unnecessarily confusing, Vista Pro has joined other leading brands in returning to the traditional ‘bag of adaptors’ solution.

The high quality new Vista Pro flat blades come with between three and six adaptors as required. The initial 12-strong range covers all popular makes and models, from 13-28inch, and further additions, including a 32inch blade, will be in stock soon. To make fitting simple, the eyecatching new packaging includes a QR Code link to YouTube videos with easy-to-follow instructions.

Martin Gray, CEO of Euro Car Parts, commented: We’ve gone back to basics with our new Vista Pro flat blades. They are very good quality and, as usual, we back up our products with additional support. There will be special Vista Pro promotions throughout the winter months and garages should ask their local Euro Car Parts branch about getting a wiper blade stand for their reception area.” ■

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GT

Klarius exhaust provides fix for noisy Peugeot 207’s Klarius has increased its stock of exhausts required to solve a suspected design issue with Peugeot 207s manufactured during early 2008.

The problem, highlighted again by a recent TecRMI report, is with the rear silencer and generally presents as excess noise from the rear of the car, particularly with the 1.4 models.

S

imon Hutchinson, Sales Manager comments, “Manufacturer defects are less common nowadays and generally take time to show up - putting them well outside of any warranty period. We have seen this issue develop and have reacted quickly with a fully type-approved replacement system which provides the aftermarket with an opportunity to solve a documented problem for car owners.”

Doug Bentley, Head of R&D at Klarius UK manufacturing and stock facility in Cheadle comments, ‘The design, test and build process we operate here has allowed us to design-out the original internal weakness in the rear silencer, so the Klarius replacement won’t suffer the same issues. The noise and back pressure levels however are carefully matched to the OE item (as part of our Type Approval process) ensuring the vehicle retains its optimum engine performance and fuel economy figures.

‘There is also an issue with the metal strap that Peugeot used to secure the rear silencer on the 207 models from 2007 onwards, it tends to corrode and break, leading to the exhaust dropping and being damaged. The Klarius replacement features proper hooks made from sturdy 12mm bar with formed ends and welded to the stronger, rolled end of the muffler to hang the exhaust.

This completely solves the problem of the corroded straps. Rubber hangers are included in the standard Klarius mounting kit which can be ordered with the replacement exhaust.’ ■

Termclean From Normfest

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uro Car Parts now stock TermClean the electrical contact cleaner formulated by Normfest , the respected producer of chemical solutions for the automotive industry and others.

The 400 ml aerosol container is ideal for workshop use and cleans all types of electrical contacts including, switches, relays and contacts.

The process is a simple spray and wipe regime and will restore the connections to as good as new performance in minimal time and at marginal cost.

For more information please contact your nearest Euro Car Parts branch. ■ check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

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BODYSHOP

AUTOEXPO SHOW

Auto Expo Show a Great Success T

he trade show for Ireland’s automotive repair and aftermarket industry, Auto Expo, was held at City West Conference Centre in Dublin in November and was hailed a great success. The wide range of stands covered all aspects of the industry and displayed the latest equipment available.

HBA Distribution had tremendous success at the show. Not only were they recipients of a huge number of visitors to their Stand, they also scooped a Best Stand Award, which was a terrific achievement in this packed conference centre of over 125 Exhibitors.

A delighted Dermot Haughey commented: “We knew we were amongst the nominees for this particular award but we also knew that the competition was fierce so it was the cherry to top off a brilliant weekend when our name was announced! I would just like to say a huge thanks to all of our customers, right across Ireland, for taking the time and making the effort to cast their online vote for ourselves and Sealey and assure them of our continued efforts to be the best at what we do” This was certainly a good weekend for HBA and further reinforces their position as a major player in Ireland’s automotive aftermarket.

Techplus, the exclusive distributor of the John Bean / Hofmann range of tyre changers, wheel balancers and wheel alignment also had a extremely busy weekend at the Expo, according to Managing Director, Hugh Brady.

The company, which scooped the Tyreshop Tools & Equipment Supplier

of the Year made numerous sales over the course of the weekend.

Interest in the John Bean / Hofmann range of tyre changers, wheel balancers and wheel alignment equipment was at fever pitch, underlining the brands’ premium status in the market.

The Hunter Quick Check demonstration drew big crowds to the Pro-Align stand. This was a case of seeing is believing; as the ultrafast Quick Grip targets were fitted and the single roll compensation was performed, giving ‘snapshot’ alignment results in under 60 seconds.

“It was an exceptionally busy show for us,” confirmed Miles Ross, Pro-Align Ireland Manager. “The response has been phenomenal. Hunter imaging wheel alignment systems have proven themselves around the world, but this has given the automotive aftermarket trade here the insight as to what a ‘service opportunity identifier and profit generator’ the Hunter Quick Check and Elite TD truly are.”

Pro-Align’s MD Paul Beaurain commented: “ Having invested in Ireland for the long term, the show and the response was very pleasing.

Talking to business proprietors, dealer principals and decision makers, they could see the value that we are not just selling equipment but helping them maximise the opportunities that are out there. Pro-Align are Hunters’ leading European distributor and we remain fully committed in delivering the same high standard of service and support for which we are renowned.” ■

Damien Kerley on the Crumb Rubber Stand

Barry Moylan, Martin Schuster, Joe McCann & Paul McEvoy on the East Coast Parts Stand

Paul Butler TechPlus and Ian Gibbs Rotary Lifts

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Frank Keenan & Colm Conyngham on the Bridgestone Stand

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

BODYSHOPGT AUTOEXPO SHOW

Jonathan Kiernan & Simon McGarrigle on the Finol Oils Stand

Cromax Paints Stand

Martyn Holt, Simon Cooper, Andrew Walters & Nigel Mepham at the Schaeffler Stand

PPG Stand

Joe Fallon with customers Paul Bowe and Steven Tiernan at the PJ Fallon Stand

Delphi Stand

Joe Carson, Tyrecare

Maxol Lubricants

Kieran Meaney, HBA

Paul Pender, Ford Blue Oval Club

Auto Trade Expo 2014

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Auto Trade Expo 2014

garageTRADER - 17

GT

WASTE

ENVA

Enva – celebrating 40 years in waste

T

he motor and garage industry is by nature a significant producer of waste oil; storing and disposing of it can be a challenge – but not if you call on the specialist services of Enva Northern Ireland, an award winning licensed waste carrier with more than 40 years’ experience in innovative, economical and environmentally sound solutions for recycling or disposing of a diverse range of hazardous wastes.

Enva Northern Ireland has an extensive and diverse customer base that includes leading freight and shipping companies, as well as truck and car workshops and dealerships, heavy industry and local authority civic amenity sites across the Province.

In recent times, it has invested significantly to ensure the use of best practice technologies to treat waste oil and other hazardous wastes in an environmentally responsible manner.

Enva – voted Best Waste Carrier in both the 2009 and 2011 Sustainable 18 - garageTRADER

Ireland Awards – operates two licensed hazardous waste facilities in Northern Ireland; at Drumaness and Carryduff, as well as four similar facilities in the Republic.

With a specialist fleet of tankers, the company’s waste oil division – which meets all ADR requirements – offers a prompt, efficient and safe collection service throughout Northern Ireland, thus helping to eliminate the risk of contamination and pollution while complying fully with regulatory requirements.

Other vehicles in the fleet provide the capability to conduct a wide range of additional services. For example, its Jet-Vac tankers, with their vacuum pump capability, allows for the long distance pumping of heavy sludges, complete with high pressure jetting facility ideal for the efficient and effective clean-up of oil spillages, therefore reducing any negative impact upon the environment. Specialist bulk vacuum tankers are utilised for the collection

of ship oil slops.

In addition, Enva has numerous curtain-sider vehicles, complete with tail lift for use when collecting and transporting packaged hazardous waste – such as batteries, paint and fluorescent tubes – prior to recycling.

“Our Drumaness facility in Co. Down has been operating as an oil reprocessing plant since 1974,” says Enva’s David Bone. “The plant is fully licensed by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency to also handle and treat oil related wastes, such as oil filters, brake fluids, coolants, anti-freeze, nonliquid and solid oily wastes.”

A similar facility is operated by the company at Portlaoise in the Republic, where major investment has also been made to automate the handling and processing of the waste oil.

Added David: “Complementary to the waste oil side of the business is our Environmental Services division, which provides forecourt

maintenance, tank cleaning and decommissioning, and is supported by our 24 hour, 7 days a week emergency oil spill response service, which is designed to minimise the impact of any oil related incident or accident on the environment.

In addition, we also provide EU approved containers for the safe and secure storage of hazardous waste on customers’ sites.”

Both the Environmental Services and the company’s Industrial & Automotive division, which manages wastes associated with automotive and industrial processes, largely operate out of the Drumaness plant, which works in conjunction with Enva’s licensed facility based in Carryduff, offering treatment and recovery solutions for a wide variety of wastes produced by various industries.

This site offers comprehensive treatment and disposal options for a wide range of packaged hazardous wastes including paint, thinners and varnishes, fluorescent tubes, pesticides, aerosols and lead acid batteries.

Using Enva’s services, you can be sure you will be in good hands as all activities and facilities operate under stringent and tightly controlled Environmental, Health & Safety and Quality Management with both facilities accredited to ISO 14001 & OHSAS 18001 standards.

Typical Driver training includes ADR (Safe Carriage of Dangerous Goods

by Road), OCN Introduction to Health & Safety Certificate, Advanced Driver Training, Environmental & Health & Safety Awareness, Pallet Truck / ForkliftTraining, Confined Space and Quarry Card.

First Aid, Manual Handling and Fire Safety training is carried out by all staff members, with additional personnel certified / trained in the following – DGSA (Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor), Professional Competence in National Road Haulage, Certificate of Technical Competence (COTC) Level 4 in Waste Management Operations (Managing Treatment Hazardous Waste), COSHH, NEBOSH, Risk Assessment Training and Standard Operating Procedures. ■

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

GT

BRAKES

FERODO

Taking a brake with Ferodo

Ferodo brake pads are tested to extremes at their test facilities in their factory.

F

erodo has a long and distinguished history in the manufacture of brake pads. The company was started in Chapel

by Herbert Frood in 1897 when he began making brakes for carts used to draw stone from the quarries down to the canals and railways. The brand name is based on his surname with the letter E added in after his wife’s name. His original garden shed workshop is still in the grounds of the factory, though possibly there is something of ‘Trigger’s brush’ about it. The first brake linings were manufactured in 1902 and twenty years later Ferodo started selling the first Original Equipment lining for the Austin 7. Ferodo has had much sporting success over the years, ranging from supplying the brakes

for land speed records to the brake pads used by Fangio to win the world championship in 1951. Ferodo’s motor sport pad the DS3000 was also standard fit on all Prodrive Impreza WRC cars.

Nowadays it develops and supplies pads for a wide range of manufacturers such as Ford and Volkswagen. Brake pads often get a bad press about making a lot of noise and vibration in a car’s suspension system but actually it is usually the suspension components that are the problem. Under braking suspension arms and uprights can resonate and make it sound like the noise is coming from the pads and during a new car’s development it is up to Ferodo to produce and test a shim to prevent that resonance. The

suspension components will have already been put into production and the pads are the only part that can be changed! If the car switches to another brand of pads at a later date then the chances are the noise will return.

Surprisingly the single biggest constituent of a brake pad is actually a lubricant – graphite! This makes up around 45 per cent of the brake pad material and ensures the pad brakes and releases smoothly. Asbestos has not been used in brake pads for 25 years but nowadays carbon fibre is becoming a common constituent.

Ferodo use up to 115 different materials for different specifications of pad and the Chapel en le Frith factory produces 29 million parts per year. The raw materials, such as graphite, aluminium oxide, kevlar, nitrile rubber, clay or any of the other 750 possible ingredients are mixed together before being applied to the backing plate under pressure and then cooked in an oven for anything from 30 minutes to several hours.

Interactions between the chemicals determine the pad behaviour and recent advances in tribological fingerprinting has produced some interesting results.

Clay has been used for a long time in pads as a filler but it is only recently that it has been discovered that it is actually heavily involved in friction process.

Ferodo has the largest brake dyno test facility in Europe and works with caliper manufacturers such as Brembo. The new calipers and pads for the Mercedes S Class were tested on the dyno up to 800C. Pedal feel, pedal effort and pedal travel will affect how the feedback

I

magine you’re driving down a streaming wet motorway in pouring rain. Suddenly you need to jump on the brakes – which are of course cold and wet. Travelling at 80km/h the difference in stopping under these circumstances can vary by as much as 59 metres (6 car lengths) depending purely on the brake pads you are using.

I witnessed this for myself at the Ferodo test track near their factory in Chapel en le Frith in Derbyshire’s Peak District. Two identical Ford Focus’ were given the wet weather treatment, the car fitted with the Ferodo brake pads stopped on average, over five tests, in 78 metres. The other Focus, fitted with budget pads took a worrying 137 metres to stop on average, on one test it took 165 metres, twice as far as the Ferodo Premium pads.

You don’t need to be told how dangerous this could be. This is the difference between stopping or having a major accident and while the message has got out about the importance of tyres, perhaps it’s time now to pay a bit more attention to brake pads.

Buying cheap pads is asking for trouble. ■

a driver receives and Ferodo have a team of test drivers and vehicles that cover millions of miles every year deciding on pad make up.

Different manufacturers from different countries have their own ideas about how sharp or smooth a brake pedal should feel and the make up of a pad for a French manufacturer could be quite different to a US car maker.

It’s all part of a days work for the team at Ferodo – them’s the brakes! ■

New catalogue data from F-M Motorparts F

ederal-Mogul Motorparts is enhancing its cataloguing data to help garages and factors find the parts they need quickly and efficiently. The OE-quality parts supplier says its new catalogue data is some of the industry’s most comprehensive and easiest to use. As well as enhancing the information and support it provides, Federal-Mogul has added 10,000 listings for its MOOG, Champion and Ferodo brands, in the last six months.

“Cataloguing is arguably a factor’s most important tool, so the depth and accuracy of this data is absolutely vital,” says Ian Cavanagh, Product Analyst, Federal-Mogul Motorparts. “This is why Federal-Mogul has a dedicated team to continuously enhance, update and add to listings. By doing so we can provide the information and support factors need to find the correct part quickly, helping them provide excellent customer service while running efficient businesses.”

A common problem with cataloguing is the deviation between UK and European specifications. These differences occur because listings are often

20 - garageTRADER

based on the European version of the car and must be tailored for the righthand drive market. The volume of differences for a vehicle can be huge, with cars like the new Volkswagen Golf (for which Federal-Mogul is an OE supplier) taking around two days to catalogue for the UK market.

While Federal-Mogul is focusing on uprating every aspect of its UK cataloguing, it has also enhanced the range of useful entries that help direct the user towards supporting components. For example, if you look up a brake pad, Federal-Mogul’s listings will suggest the compatible brake disc, and also offer advice on how to fit the parts which the factor can pass on to the garage.

“We want to provide our customers with access to our expertise, and provide them with the support they need,” says Cavanagh. “Factors and garages can contact us directly and speak to one of our experts, who provide them with answers to their cataloguing queries. We then improve our catalogue listings to include the answers to common questions, ensuring factors can find the correct part quickly and efficiently.” ■

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

BRAKESGT

FERODO

Technical and training support from Ferodo

David Holme

Andrew Bevington

F

ederal-Mogul Motorparts is introducing a new programme of technical and training support to UK distributors and garages in support of its Ferodo® brand. The OE-quality parts producer is providing a direct link to manufacturers’ expertise through training, support lines, face-to-face consultations, online resources and marketing tools. The aim is to improve technical understanding within the aftermarket sector, supplying distributors and garages with the specialist knowledge required to deliver excellent customer service.

“Our in-depth technical support aims to empower to provide distributor staff with the expertise that garages rely on,” says Andrew Bevington Managing Director, Federal-Mogul Motorparts Managing Director, UK and Ireland.

Garages rely on distributors to supply in-depth technical answers to their queries and concerns. The Ferodo technical support team provides distributors with a direct link to us as a manufacturer, helping them to deliver these solutions quickly and efficiently. The programme provides short, easy-to-digest presentation modules that educate distributors on braking ranges, highlights on regulations, such as R90, and other ecological evolutions. They also offer more in-depth technical knowledge, for example how various materials used in friction components react in different situations. The modules are delivered in bite-sized chunks, ensuring they fit around workloads and that factor staff retain the information.

Customers have 24/7 access to Federal-Mogul’s FM Campus. It provides free, online resources, video clips and information to technicians of all levels, helping garages enhance their training schemes and support the development of their workers. The video clips demonstrate how different replacement parts are fitted to a vehicle and the potential issues that can occur with components. ■

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

Continual advances in brake technology A

dvances in brake friction technology are expanding the performance gap between pads manufactured to Original Equipment specifications and those designed for low-cost, generic applications.

“Ferodo has always been at the forefront of braking innovation and this has been, in part due to its close relationship with vehicle manufacturers, but also because of the company’s ability to identify and adapt to future trends,” said David Holme, Federal-Mogul Senior Development Manager.

“For instance, the friction market is largely based on three different families of materials, classified as low steel and semi-metallic, which are mainly used in Europe; and Non-Asbestos Organic (NAO), which are predominantly used for U.S. vehicles. A trend is now developing for NAO materials to be used for European applications and Ferodo is expanding its NAO range to provide a solution to its customers.”

“It isn’t inconceivable that a car fitted with low quality pads could roll-away when left on a hill with the handbrake on,” explains Holme. “By 2015, one in five new cars will be fitted with Electric Parking Brakes, which require a consistent level of friction – at any temperature – to secure the vehicle. Change that level of friction and you change the resistance to roll away.” Other problems due to low quality pads range from the inconvenience of annoying squeals to the cost of high wear rates and the safety implications of substantially poorer stopping performance.

The Electric Park Brake (EPB) is just one example of how new technology is increasing the risks associated with fitting incorrectly specified friction materials. Another example is fixed calipers, which are the choice of motorsport constructors because they deform far less during heavy brake applications, providing strong, consistent performance. Although fundamentally lower weight than floating calipers, they have been traditionally specified for more performance focused road cars because their rigidity and the direct path for vibration and noise to enter the vehicle makes their NVH (Noise, Vibration & Harshness) characteristics more challenging.

Ferodo’s research with garages confirms that brake noise is one of the most common reasons for customers to bring their cars back for rectification. “This is usually because the wrong quality of pads has been selected, or because the customer has not been made aware of the compromises that must be accepted if low-cost pads are chosen,” explains Holme. “As the rate of change in OE technology accelerates, we see this being an increasing issue for garages.”

Another example where noise must be carefully managed is with electric and Hybrid Electric Vehicles (HEVs). The challenge is that when driving on electric power, there is no engine noise so all other noise sources become more prominent. ■

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GT

REFINISH

PPG, AUDATEX

PPG Industries celebrate double award win at ABP Night of Knights 2014 P

PG Industries have received two Repairers Choice Awards at the recent 8th ABP Night of Knight Awards event.

The Repairers Choice Award for Paint Brand of the Year was presented to PPG and the Distributor of the Year was awarded to Brown Brothers Distribution.

The ABP ‘Repairers Choice Awards’ recognise the best suppliers in the industry as voted for by the repairers.

Over 400 of the UK’s bodyshops voted re-enforcing the industry held view that the results are very much the ‘repairer’s choice’.

The two awards which was presented at the eighth annual ABP Night of Knight Awards were received

by Gethyn Davies, Brown Brothers Distribution Managing Director & PPG Refinish UK Market Director.

Gethyn Davies comments on the success:

“This is the first time Brown Brothers Distribution has won the Distributor of the Year award and this has special significance for the whole business as we have been investing heavily in improving our services over the past year. The award demonstrates and commends how hard everyone has worked to get us into this position. The PPG Paint Award was the icing on the cake” Danni Aiken, PPG Refinish UK & Ireland Marketing Communications Manager adds: “We are absolutely thrilled we have won both the Paint Brand of the Year and Paint Distributor Award as voted for by the industry. We really pride ourselves on our levels of customer service so it is gratifying to see these awards reflect something we work so hard to achieve. The awards are a great vote of confidence in our ability to deliver excellent service and

Gethyn Davies, PPG Refinish UK & Ireland Market Director collecting the award for Paint Brand of the Year and Distributor of the Year Award

brilliant results to our relationships, and we’ll continue to keep on improving” PPG Industries would like to thank all of the repairers who voted for

PPG and Brown Brothers Distribution in the Repairers Choice Survey 2014.

Congratulations to all of the other winners in the categories. ■

Audatex launches audagarage

H

ow much will it cost and how long will it take? These are two familiar customer questions for bodyshops, but often difficult for them to answer, without further investigation. Audatex, the global repair data solutions provider, is helping bodyshops identify mechanical repair times and workshop costs quickly and efficiently, with the launch of AudaGarage; 22 - garageTRADER

providing accurate technical data for over 30 million vehicles.

With technical drawings and diagrams for mechanical repairs, as well as industry leading fault diagnostics at their fingertips, garages using AudaGarage can increase the accuracy of their estimates and boost the customer experience.

OEM part numbers and pricing are

standard with AudaGarage, allowing bodyshops to supply detailed quotes, including pricing for both parts and time. In addition, all licences include access to Audatex’s industry leading technical support helpdesk which is staffed by trained automotive technicians.

Every aspect of AudaGarage is designed to streamline the fault finding and repair process. Torque settings are displayed on exploded component diagrams and fuse box diagrams are colour coded, making it easy to identify the correct procedure without having to reference additional data.

AudaGarage allows users to simply key in the VRM or VIN to locate the vehicle and gain instant access full OE equivalent technical data and exploded drawings and wiring diagrams. The web based application provides step-by-step guided diagnostics to speed up the workshop repair process, using an ECU fault code to start the Q&A session. In addition, AudaGarage provides an estimated time and cost for the work, including procedural data, allowing technicians to quote there and then, knowing exactly what is needed to complete the job.

Paul Sykes, Managing Director

of Audatex comments, “We’re diversifying the Audatex offering to ensure our customers have access to the products they need to carry out both insurance accident repairs and mechanical repairs or indeed, servicing. AudaGarage is a fast, easy solution to assist bodyshops in undertaking mechanical repairs whilst presenting a professional image and enhancing the level of customer care they give.

“Now workshop staff can quote for repairs on the spot, helping them win more work. But AudaGarage also helps bodyshops complete the work.

With no need to flick through manuals or call manufacturers, users simply key in the vehicle registration number for access to essential workshop technical data. From repair times to torque settings and guided fault diagnostics, AudaGarage brings it all to their fingertips.

“AudaGarage is web-based, so staff can access all this information on the go and bring added value to customers. This product perfectly complements our growing range of quality products, designed specifically to meet the changing needs of bodyshops, securing more work whilst reducing repair times and improving accuracy from quote to completion.” ■

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

GT

BODYSHOP

PaintWorx

PaintWorx: Superior Refinish with PPG Photos: Graham Curry Mark Stewart, right, and Peter Matthews of PaintWorx

P

aintWorx in Bangor have become one of the top names in the preparation and painting of modified cars in Ireland. Opened in 2011

by Mark Stewart, their cars and their customers cars have been picking up awards at Modified Car shows throughout Ireland and the UK. Mark, along with painter Peter Matthews, are both professionally trained painters who both love cars.

The company was originally set up to paint and repair damaged cars

and the customised work was only supposed to be a sideline but in the past few years the customised and modified work has grown considerably. Mark and the team at PaintWorx don’t just paint cars, they also modify suspension, ride heights and can fit alternative engines and transmissions. One of their first demo cars was a Honda S2000 with Nissan 200SX engine and running gear.

Other cars range from BMW M5 to CLS Mercedes.

“Everything we get to modify is done very tastefully, we don’t do tacky cars. We have been chosen by PPG Paints to promote their range of paints. Many customers don’t realise the importance of using a really good paint on their car. PPG might not be the cheapest paint but it’s one of the best and if you want a really good finish on your car you’ve got to use

top quality paint.”

The company’s strive for excellence was underscored by the world’s biggest paint supplier, PPG. Paul McGuinness, Technical Sales Consultant, PPG UK and Ireland, commented, “At PPG our philosophy is bringing innovation to the surface, Mark and Peter at Paintworx have bags of it, and that’s why the partnership is a great fit.

“I stand in awe time and time again of the quality of the workmanship they produce every time, I know the guys won’t mind me drawing comparisons between RAUH-Welt BEGRIFF (RWB) the Porsche tuner located in Japan and Paintworx but I believe they are up there with the very best and I am proud to a have PPG Refinish UK & Ireland associated with them.” ■

Wishing Paintworx every success in the future Liqiu Moly consumables : Parts : Oil Exhauts : Lighting : Car Care : Electrical Supplier of Mac, Facom, De Walt & Britool to the North Down & Belfast Areas

COLIN ADAMS MOTOR PARTS 51A Mark Street, Newtownards, Co.Down BT23 4DT Tel: 0289181 3035 • www.motorpartsni.co.uk

Contact: Patrick McCann 07713 484161 24 - garageTRADER

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

REFINISHGT CAR-O-LINER, PPG, STANDOX

Car-O-Liner’s Stuart Alexander awarded for Outstanding Contribution to the Industry

S

tuart Alexander, Car-O-Liner’s National Sales Manager was recently awarded the Outstanding Contribution Award at the Bodyshop Awards 2014.

Car-O-Liner are thrilled on Stuart’s behalf and proud that his continued drive and passion both for Car-OLiner as a company and the Industry as a whole with an emphasis on the training of the apprentices who take part in both the World Skills Competitions and the National Skills Competitions has been recognized by his peers and we are proud that he is part of the Car-O-Liner Team.

Stuart has said “it is an honour to have been nominated for this award and I am overjoyed to have received it”. ■

PPG Envirobase Waterborne Line gets a new look

P

Standox wins Paint Brand of the Year award at Irish Auto Trade Awards S

tandox, the global refinish paint brand from Wuppertal, Germany, has been voted Paint Brand of the Year at the inaugural Irish Auto Trade Awards.

David Dempsey, Vehicle Refinish Sales Manager for Crown Paints in Ireland, accepted the award on behalf of Standox. Crown Paints, based in Dublin, is the sole authorised importer for Standox in Ireland. ■

PG Automotive Refinish has created new global branding for its popular ENVIROBASE® High Performance waterborne product line.

Updated product packaging for the leading PPG brand now gives a completely refreshed look that includes a redesigned paint system logo and new colorful label designs for its waterborne toners and its integrated waterborne undercoats and clearcoats.

According to PPG, the branding initiative is intended to better reflect the premium quality of the Envirobase High Performance paint line and the brand’s international leadership in waterborne refinish systems.

To learn more about Envirobase High Performance products, call 01449 771779 or visit www.ppgrefinish.com. ■

Standox offers a solution for waterborne waste E

nvironmental issues are important for paint manufacturers, and managing waste is something Standox takes very seriously. The 16.30 coagulant has been designed to help deal with waterborne waste.

The 16.30 coagulant powder is mixed with the waste water and left for a few minutes until solid lumps of coagulated waterborne paint material start to form and settle. When the water is completely clear, the process is complete and the coagulated paint material can be filtered out and removed as chemical waste. With the local authorities’ approval, the clear water can then be disposed of. However, it must never be re-used or readded to fresh waterborne paint.

Standox produces a Standothek guide entitled Helpful tips for your health and safety, which covers the issue of correct waste management and disposal. ■

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

garageTRADER - 25

GT

TRAINING

RIVERPARK

Another amazing year at Riverpark Training as they win Bodyshop Magazine “Education Award” and The IMI “Specialised Centre of the Year Award” 2014.

R

iverpark Training has recently won the Bodyshop Magazine “Education Award” 2014 and the IMI Outstanding Achievers Award “Specialised Centre of the Year Award 2014”. This is now the second year in a row that they have won both of these awards and as a training team they are immensely proud to achieve these accolades. Colin Hagan, David Frizell and Janet Forbes collected the “Education Award” at a glittering awards night at the Celtic Manor Wales in September while the IMI award was presented to Colin Hagan and Janet Forbes of Riverpark Training by HRH Prince Michael of Kent at the Heritage Motor Centre Warwickshire in October.

Recent expansion Due to the high increase of apprentice intake this year, Riverpark Training has now taken on an additional adjacent unit. This will mean that 3-4 different classes can be scheduled at the same time. This has also allowed them to take on Light Vehicle training through a sub-contract with Wade Training and there are now 16 light vehicle mechanics attending training once a week. A new computer suite is due January 2015 and the paint workshop is to be up-graded to become NEXA training facility Ireland also in January 2015.

Riverpark Training succeed at the Skills Show in Birmingham November 2014 Aaron Kernahan from Nigel Whann ARC achieved Bronze in the car painting section and Andrew Spiers achieved 4th position in the panel competition at the Skills Show in the NEC Birmingham earlier in November.

Both competitors represented their companies and Riverpark Training well, they had very stiff opposition from all over the UK and bearing in mind many of these competitors had their tutors as 26 - garageTRADER

judges, a practice that Riverpark Training would not endorse or support. While Riverpark Training tutors observed good practice from all judges, they believe this is something Skill Auto need to re-examine. Andrew Spiers being one of the youngest competitors in the panel section and by competing and performing well, has now the opportunity to progress to “World Skills 2017”. He was 1 of 2 competitors out of this competition that was age eligible, unless some of our 2013 body repair class can prove differently.

World Skills Training Up-Date Our three squad competitors continue to attend training on Saturdays to improve their skills. Recently in late November Riverpark Training hosted a World Skills UK training event for both Panel and Paint. This saw the two World Skills training managers and the full Squad competitors attend training for 2 and 4 day sessions. Because of the success of this training event, another one is planned for late January 2015.

New Training InItiative for bodyshops in the Republic of Ireland Riverpark Training is currently the only IMI approved ATA Centre in Ireland that can accredit Senior Panel, Senior Paint, Senior MET and also deliver VDA IMI route on the island of Ireland. We have supported bodyshops in Northern Ireland over the last 5 years to achieve PAS 125 and the BSI Kitemark and are now keen to work with quality bodyshops in the Republic Of Ireland to achieve similar status. Automotive Technician Accreditation is a benchmark for quality technicians to achieve the recognition they deserve, it is also a standard that must be upheld. To date we have 10 enquiries from ROI Bodyshops to start training and assessment, the first of these will commence in late January.

Another training incentive for ROI Bodyshops has been initiated by Riverpark Training, this is to progress 3rd year apprentices or semi-skilled staff. There is no age restriction on this training and successful candidates will be able to achieve ATA status. We are currently seeking students who would benefit from this practical based training. The course is to run for 6 months and is targeted to improve their skills and profitability. The scheme is to start in February 2015 check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

TRAININGGT

RIVERPARK

and will have a limited number of 10 students, (5 have already applied). Cost of this training is £200.00 per month with the student attending 2 days per month. This will mean a total cost to the employer of £1200.00 with the option of a free ATA that would normally cost £600.00. Therefore leaving a cost of £600.00 for 12 days practical

training. The student would only have to improve by 2% for this training to pay for itself after the 6 month training period.

As the accident repair industry is now fast evolving and to meet the demands of work, providers training for profitability is the key to success, join us on this new initiative to help you make your staff more

productive and your business more profitable.

Two of our World Skills UK Squad team recently attended a competition in DIT in Dublin on the 9th -12th December 2014.

Patrick Quinn (Car Painting) and James Crawford (Autobody Repair) attended the competition, although neither of them could win anything it

provided them with real competition experience. Riverpark Training would therefore like to thank DIT for providing this experience and as a gesture of thanks we would like to invite the winning competitors from this event to attend our World Skills training events at Riverpark Training that are taking place between now and July 2015. ■

Apprentices available to the Motor Industry in Northern Ireland • Vehicle Parts • Business Administration • Vehicle Body Repair • Vehicle Refinishing • Vehicle Fitting Riverpark Training and Develpment Centre have engaged with young people from all over Northern Ireland keen to take up employed apprenticeships on Vehicle Parts, Business Administration, Body Repair and Vehicle Painting. We are very keen to engage with employers to connect them with these keen interested young people to secure future staff development. We can deliver specific quality training to meet your needs to allow your business to grow.

To find out more please call 028 9034 2400 and get yourself quality partner in career progression and development. Contact on-line @ www.riverparktraining.com Email: riverparktraining@btconnect.com

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

garageTRADER - 27

GT

TRAINING

NEWS

Licence to Skill?

T

here has been a great deal of debate in the motor industry in the past year about whether there needs to be a licence to practice for technicians. According to a survey

by IMI almost 90% of professionals working in the automotive retail sector agree that some form of licence is needed.

The argument for licencing revolves around two areas. Firstly, IMI argues that there is a safety issue inherent with the lack of licencing which is compounded by the advancement of modern

28 - garageTRADER

motor vehicle technology. IMI CEO Steve Nash commented earlier in the year: “The proliferation of hybrid vehicles and complex driver assist systems has already increased the skills requirements for effective and safe working on modern vehicles.

But currently there is no industry-wide license in place to ensure service technicians are properly qualified.

And without the proper training, car mechanics are increasingly putting themselves and motorists at risk.”

Secondly there is a competition element to licencing. We are in a

situation where established businesses that invest in training and skills to provide are forced to compete on pricing with businesses which do not.

The race to the bottom economics this implies, coupled with the safety issues creates a compelling case for licencing.

There is also confusion amongst motorists about regulation in the sector, with obvious implications for reputation damage to the sector.

According to further IMI research, three quarters (71%) of motorists believe anyone working on a car

commercially would have a licence to do so. However, there is currently no regulation on individuals in the motor industry. 59% of drivers said they wouldn’t let anyone work on their car that didn’t know what they were doing, but only 10% actually checked their technician’s qualifications.

If support for licencing continues to gather momentum, the next question will be: “How will this work?” IMI already thinks they have the answer in the government funded Professional Register, which lists qualified and competent technicians publically and has requirements for staying on the register which include the need for continuous learning and development. Steve Nash explained: “The template for licensing already exists, IMI Accreditation (ATA) and our Professional Register, so there is no excuse for the Government to delay. Yet, by our calculations there are 148,000 mechanics whose skills and current competence we cannot verify. It is vital that this issue is addressed as quickly as possible.”

Do you agree? Do you think you would meet the requirements of a licence to practice? ■

check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk

TRAINING GT FYFES

Fyfes EXCLUSIVE Eure!Car Training Fyfes Vehicle and Engineering Supplies, are supporting their customers with unique, hands on training known as Eure!Car.

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ure!Car Certified Masterclasses are available exclusively to customers of Fyfes in N. Ireland. Fyfes are proud to present this exclusive training in partnership with AD International (ADI), Europe’s largest car parts distribution network. Together they believe that training is essential as cars are getting more complicated and more diverse.

The ADI developed Eure!Car over the last 5-6 years, and spent millions of euros and thousands of hours on technical development. It is a well-developed concept, operating in European countries such as Spain, France, Portugal and also as far afield as Morocco, Sweden and Romania.

How does Eure!Car work?

Eure!Car is unique, hands on training, working in small groups of like-minded people. The training session takes 2 days, and it covers the main system on a car (e.g. hybrid drive technology) plus the most common faults on that vehicle

as picked up by the thousands of technical calls received every month by the ADI hotline. Each Eure!Car has 20 to 40 common faults built into it by means of a special magic box – the GED box. It is a computer that is connected into the car’s main systems, and it stimulates faults, and the car behaves exactly as it would do if the real fault existed. Warning lights come on, the car runs badly or not at all, and systems begin to go wrong.

Fyfes have just completed a second successful batch of Masterclasses, with 50 customers receiving extensive training on a Peugeot 308 1.6HDI. There were five different two day sessions, which were held in various colleges throughout the province. With the aid of the trainer, the 10 technicians at each Masterclass had to diagnose the problem, trace the problem and fix the problem. They were given

the chance to actually work on the Peugeot 308, and they identified the best and quickest techniques to use. They were hands on with diagnostic machines, volt meters and oscilloscopes. The training was extremely interactive, with each group of 10 technicians and the trainer learning from each other as they fixed the problems.

Feedback from those who

attended these recent classes was extremely positive, with many commenting on how beneficial the interaction between the participants and discussion on the various faults was. Fyfes will be offering further courses throughout 2015, allowing customers to continually develop their skills and learn about new technologies.

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Sister Company Opened in Co. Louth FYFES CAR PARTS IRELAND Drogheda: 041 989 2070 Dundalk: 042 935 1095

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garageTRADER - 29

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Jim Gourley

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In this edition we talk to

Jim Gourley

CEO Transport Training Services.

apprenticeships for the Mechanical Services Industry in Northern Ireland.

I am committed to lifelong learning and during my career I have continued learning and have gained a Master’s Degree in Education management, various post graduate Diplomas in Adult Learning, Fellowship of the CIPD and Chartered Director with the IoD.

Did you plan to get involved in this industry?

Not specifically, but my career has spanned a number of industries where the common denominator has been Adult Education. I have always had a keen interest in the industry, in driving, and cars in particular. My father was an IAM Advanced Driver and an Approved Driving Instructor so I suppose I have inherited his attitudes to high quality training for drivers and safety in transport.

What was your biggest disappointment?

I have had many disappointments, like most people, but I believe that we learn from all the experiences we have in life, and that the disappointments as well as the accomplishments make us stronger and better able to deal with many different situations.

What was the best piece of advice you ever received?

Tell us about your career so far?

At the age of 17 I served an apprenticeship as an electrician before moving to Northern Ireland Electricity and studying further to become an Electrical Engineer. I was employed by NIE at its Headquarters in Belfast for 18 years during which time a major part of my job was to train other engineers. I soon became very interested in education and how people learn new skills. Leaving 30 - garageTRADER

NIE in 1993, I set up my own training consultancy, and in 1998 for four years led the establishment of a new careers, education, and training service for the Northern Ireland Office and specifically for Police officers leaving the RUC. Following this I spent four years as Chief Executive of Coaching NI, (a Sports Council Company), training coaches across 26 sports, and for the past seven years I have been Chief Executive responsible for providing training and

When I was an Electrical Engineer with NIE, I discovered a manufacturing defect in a component which was causing failure in a pretty crucial piece of electrical equipment. Since its discovery would undoubtedly lead to the recall of thousands of products for the manufacturer I was, as a young engineer, lacking confidence in my discovery. My Senior Engineer at the time advised me to reflect on my findings and if I believed I was right to “stick to my guns”. I have applied this advice many times in my career.

Whom do you most admire?

Historically I would say Isaac Newton,

Charles Darwin, and, Michelangelo.

Their intelligence, integrity and singleness of purpose command respect, I think. In a non-historical sense, however, I would have to say my parents and my older sister: Good, honest, hardworking people.

What is the most difficult aspect of your job?

The need to constantly rise to the challenge of providing a quality training service at a fair price in a highly competitive market place and balancing the often conflicting interests of the Skills agenda and the Social agenda. Employers in Northern Ireland need to see the value in investing in their workforce both as employed apprenticeships and in upskilling. The quality route of employed apprenticeships is being seriously eclipsed by the availability of “free” labour on placement.

What is your most effective or personal asset?

With a considerable amount of time leading companies and often setting them up from scratch I have met many challenges and solved many problems, “sticking to my guns” on many occasions. As a result I can count being “calm under pressure” as one of my most effective assets.

You’ve won the lottery.

What car would you rush out and buy?

An Aston Martin DB9.

How do you relax?

I love to travel and see new things with my wife and family. I also like to try new restaurants and visit new cities. Recently my wife and I visited our son in Australia and it was the most exciting and relaxing holiday ever. At the end of a hard day I like nothing better than going for a long walk with my dog.

Tell us something surprising about yourself…

I’m a 4th Dan Black belt in the Japanese Martial Art of Aikido.

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check out the website: www.garagetrader.co.uk