GW Views 10 Winter 2017

See and hear more

The digital home for independent garages

Reader Reviews

OSRAM Night Breaker Laser bulbs Plus: Vetech DPF professional cleaner

Issue 10, December 2017

Community Motors: a workshop that gives back

PLUS The news that got you talking in 2017

Ford 1.8TDCi: timing chain or timing belt?

Training: Gasoline direct injection

GW Columnist, Caroline Lake asks if diesel is really dead?

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1

Your news CONTENTS your VIEWS 22 your magazine The news that got you talking in 2017

AUTOINFORM Live 2017 proved to be another successful event with technicians from across the country – and some further afield – gathering to soak up the latest technical know-how.

Take a look on page 64 for a round up of this year’s training event.

Sticking with training, there’s GWTV video coverage of Delphi’s new GDI course on page 38 and great advice on all things DPF on 58.

We also take a look back at some the stories that have got you talking this year – find a full round up on page 22.

Flick to 53 for this issue’s Your Garage where we meet three dedicated individuals, each enthusiastic about the motor trade, good service and education.

Don’t forget to get in touch if you have a strong opinion on an industry matter or if you fancy trying out some new products and services for Reader Reviews – this issue there’s reader coverage on OSRAM bulbs, Vetech DPF cleaner and Dura workshop furniture.

Many thanks for your continued support, and a special thanks to all of those who have shared their comments, reviews and opinions on GW. Have a Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!

GW Columnist, Caroline Lake asks if diesel is really dead?

Training: Gasoline direct injection Reader review: OSRAM Night Breaker Laser bulbs Ford 1.8TDCi: timing chain or timing belt?

Community Motors: a workshop that gives back Your comments

Reader reaction to the biggest stories published on GW

Gone to the polls Reader views in numbers

Offbeat news The odd, the weird and the horrifying

Products and services A glance at some of the most popular products, services & offers

Reader reviews Have your say on the latest products and services

Mike Ruff | Editor michael.ruff@garagewire.co.uk

27 38 48 60 53

Your garage The independent garages you own and love

On the road Aftermarket features worth reading

5 8 16 31 42 53 58

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4

YOUR COMMENTS

Reader reaction to the biggest stories published on GW

Everything you need to know about MOT FULLin STORY... changes coming FULL STORY...

May 2018 Updates to the way MOTs are carried out FULL STORY... are to be implemented next year.

“We have seen a large increase in customers who are bargain hunters and never want any extras or even basic servicing. The shock is that most of these vehicles would not pass an MOT.” Simon Fox of VRS Automotive Solutions in Coventry.

“Will be interesting to see the impact of these changes. I’m very cynical and it feels like 4-1-1 MOTs are just around the corner once these changes lessen the impact of lost revenues for the industry.” Lee Taylor of Cross Garage in Ashton, Lancashire.

“I am disappointed about the lack of any tyre updates. In my opinion the tyre part of the test has not kept up to the times and should be modified.” Eric Roberts of Pellon Tyre and Auto Centre in Halifax.

FULL STORY...

MOT DPF changes now expected in May 2018

MOT changes designed to make it easier for FULL STORY... testers to detect vehicles with failing or removed DPFs are expected to be inFULL STORY... troduced next year, the Department for Transport has told GW. “We as MOT stations will have to foot the bill for equipment to check DPFs but DVSA will not give us a price increase for our set prices.

They don’t care about the testers/stations as long as they look good.” Mercedes of Autotune Grangemouth.

“In a nutshell it’s a European directive that had good intentions but ultimately it ended up costing unwary users. Why not make a filter cartridge that can be exchanged at service time like an air, oil, fuel and pollen filter is changed?” Matthew Brind commenting on GW.

“The only way forward is to ensure that when produced, the soot must be contained and disposed of in a controlled manner. I look forward to the mandatory introduction of a DPF cleaning and capture system that is recognised as safe and sensible.” Max Cornforth of Money Save Service Centre in Altrincham, Cheshire.

5

YOUR COMMENTS

Reader reaction to the biggest stories published on GW

Kwik Fit loses complaint over damning Mail on FULL STORY...

Sunday investigation Fast fit claimed report was inaccurate to suggest that it had “fit up” or “ripped off” its customers.

“I think all Kwik Fit branches need to be investigated, especially the managers that put a lot of pressure on to make a sale.

That’s where the rip off comes from.” Nash commenting on Facebook.

FULL STORY...

FULL STORY...

“It’s not just Kwik Fit that are at it, I can name a few more. I am forever testing vehicles that have been failed at other garages and when I then find no faults or it should have just been advised and not failed. They are all at brand name garages that have more than one branch, never the independent garages.” Anthony Roe of mot-centre.com commenting on GW.

Dealership denies BMW owner of warranty repair because he used non-brand screen wash FULL STORY...

Customer reluctantly paid over £160 to have washer jets unblocked and is told to use manufacturer's screen wash.

“I had a customer come to me with a similar complaint but did not pay BMW. I cleaned the filter and refilled the bottle for £52.50 plus VAT. The customer was delighted.” Paul commenting on GW.

FULL STORY...

FULL STORY...

“The filters on the pumps on these cars are far too fine in my opinion, all cars screen wash reservoirs gunk up but on most cars the filters let some of this through the filters and it gets chewed by the pumps and works fine for thousands of miles.” Max commenting on GW.

6

THE STRONG SILENT TYPE Introducing Textar Q+, a revolutionary new noise dampening shim, which utilises OE technology exclusively for the aftermarket. Providing first-class braking comfort, the shim offers impeccable acoustic dampening along with an impressive visual appeal.

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First class braking comfort Engineered as a result of extensive development and testing.

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Optimum braking performance and comfort.

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Developed and tested for OE. Aesthetic appeal with unique, embossed textile finish.

www.textar.com 7

GONE TO THE POLLS

Reader views in numbers

57%

Reaction to the DVSA’s DPF removal crackdown • 56.7 per cent say “it’s about time”.

• 28.7 per cent believe more needs to be done to prevent DPF deletion.

• 7.6 per cent are unware of a crackdown.

• 7 per cent don’t support a crackdown.

SAY "IT's ABOUT TIME"

62%

ADAS awareness • 62.1 per cent are aware of ADAS but don’t think it yet applies to them.

• 21.7 per cent offer their customers ADAS calibration services.

• 16.2 per cent don’t know what ADAS is.

ADAS "DOESN'T APPLY TO ME"

Need to know ADVANCED driver assistance systems (ADAS) are becoming increasingly common on our roads with many new cars already equipped with the likes of blind spot monitoring,

adaptive cruise control, autonomous emergency braking and park assist.

It’s thought that by 2020, 40 per cent of all new vehicles will be fitted with ADAS. Any repairs that change the mechanical position of an ADAS-equipped vehicle can result in incorrect function or complete deactivation unless the systems are calibrated.

Most common reasons for issuing a failed MOT certificate

61% 22.4% 6.8% 4.1% 4% Lamps, TYRES SUSPENSION Driver’s BRAKES reflectors & electrical

Join the debate and share your views with GW

view of the road

1.7% OTHER

EMAIL

TWITTER

FACEBOOK

0330 555 0170 8

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Contact a member of our team on 0333 240 1123 to find out more or visit www.zf.com/uk/protech.

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Copy turbos lack power independent tests show Non-original remanufactured and copy turbos can be 40 per cent down on performance with higher emissions, compared to OE remanufactured units.

INDEPENDENT tests by the Millbrook Group compared Garrett 100 per cent OE original remanufactured turbochargers with nonOE replacements, including the best-selling copy units imported into the UK.

Only Garrett remanufactured turbo used entirely OE parts

They may also be produced without essential calibration equipment, or are simply counterfeits.

Cheap non-OE turbos may look tempting, but they can be a false economy.

Get it right first time by choosing a 100 per cent OE replacement.

BTN Turbo stocks over 18,000 turbos for immediate despatch, all of them 100 per cent OE brand new or remanufactured from the original manufacturers, such as Garrett’s original remanufactured range, and all with a two-year warranty.

Replacing the old oil feed pipe and strainer with new parts helps ensure the turbo receives the quantity and quality of oil it needs to protect it and maintain performance.

The non-OE turbochargers produced less low-end torque than the Garrett 100 per cent OE equivalent, with higher NOx emissions and more CO2 emissions.

Non-OE issues The tests show how non-OE replacement turbos can be a false economy, causing poor performance, generating warning lights due to incompatibility with the engine management ECU, and leading to MOT failure because of increased emissions.

Only Garrett remanufactured turbos used entirely OE parts.

Non-OE turbos use copy parts, which aren’t guaranteed to match original specifications.

10

The turbocharger people

BTN Turbo is the only UK supplier of all major turbocharger brands. Technical helpline available for diagnostic information on 01895 466663 or www.btnturbo.com.

11

GONE TO THE POLLS

Reader views in numbers

Garage management system trends GW readers reveal their views on garage management systems.

A STAGGERING 43 per cent of garages have said that their workshop management system “could be better” while another three per cent claim their system to be “rubbish” in a recent GW reader survey.

Not everyone is dissatisfied though as 53 per cent believe theirs is ideal.

When it comes to the system itself, 79 per cent use a specialist digital system compared to 15 per cent who prefer a traditional diary/tcard system and six per cent who do without a management system altogether.

Almost 40 per cent have had the same system for more than five years and, at the other end of the scale, just 13 per cent have switched in the past 12 months.

Additional capabilities such as online booking and ability to record digital evidence for customers appears to be a growing necessity for garage owners.

Almost half of respondents say online bookings are important for their business and an additional 15 per say it’s “essential”.

Pictures and/or videos of vehicle faults are taken “most of the time” by 14 per cent and “all of the time” by four per cent.

Garage respondents: NUMBer of technicians per workshop

1-3 42% 4-6 44% 7-9 9% 10+ 4% 12

Garage management systeMS

79% use a specialist digital system

15% use a diary/ t-card system

say their current management system “could be better”

43 % 39%

have been using their management system for more than five years have switched to a new system in the past 12 months

68

show their customers photos and/or videos of vehicle faults

6%

don’t use a management system

57%

15%

Say an online booking functionality is important for their customers

of those say it’s essential

View the full survey results...

13

Schaeffler UK’s Automotive Aftermarket joins National Tyre Distributors Association Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket managing director, Nigel Morgan

Schaeffler becomes a supplier member of the NTDA. SCHAEFFLER has elected to join the NTDA – a trade association which represents and promotes the interests of the tyre wholesale, distribution and retail sectors

and OE prowess to both distributors and installers.

Wheel bearing technology has improved significantly over the last decade, thanks to the technological advancement in generations two and three wheel bearings, which, while increasing the complexity of repair, makes the job more profitable with the value of a wheel bearing increasing at least threefold.

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket (UK) managing director, Nigel Morgan said: “This is an important milestone for both Schaeffler and the NTDA, as Schaeffler will be bringing its wealth of experience and technical knowledge to the tyre distributors and, most importantly, installers.

“Our team of REPXPERTs are available to educate the installers, who are taking on general repair work, about the importance of fitting OE quality products, like FAG wheel bearings.

“It’s critical that our REPXPERTs highlight the correct tools installers should be investing in to conduct a safe, correct and reliable repair.” of the automotive aftermarket – at a time when the company recognises that many tyre distributors and installers are accepting more general repair work.

The renowned manufacturer and supplier of FAG wheel bearing technology, Schaeffler believes it is a crucial time to lend its support

14

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15

OFFBEAT NEWS

The odd, the weird and the horrifying.

Children’s minibus caught out with shocking bodge A 12-SEATER 53 plate Ford Transit was presented for testing at Arif’s Autofix in Glasgow with this bodged “fix”.

Shazaad found rusty holes, masked under a layer of silicone.

It’s a horrifying find, particularly given this is on a children’s minibus!

Hanging on by a thread: customer shows up for MOT with burst tyre PAUL Dunsford posted this picture on Facebook after a customer turned up for an MOT at his garage.

Paul said: “Great start to the day, the guy drove in like this and had odd size tyres too.

“I can’t believe he came to a test like that and he didn’t seem shocked when I showed him.”

16

OFFBEAT NEWS

The odd, the weird and the horrifying.

Clean break for oblivious motorist GW READER, Shazaad Arif of Arif’s Autofix in Glasgow submitted pictures of this MOT fail found on the nearside rear of a 2003 Toyota Avensis.

Shazaad said: “The customer had been driving around like this for a while because they didn’t think it was important.

“It’s obviously an MOT failure and the customer asked if I could weld it back together.”

17

Borg & Beck clutch centre GETS UPGRADE Engineers have designed precision measuring equipment for the clutch quality control process to ensure Borg & Beck can continue to accurately check clutches and provide a premium product for each and every customer.

THE state of the art precision machinery is designed to ensure consistency of quality and specification across the company’s extensive

... guarantee that its SMF can match the DMF specification as closely as possible. clutch range through unique software developed to meet its stringent requirements when testing for characteristics such as, torque capacities and cushioning elements of driven plates, and the new automated test rigs to check the full functioning characteristics of clutch cover assemblies.

The equipment is also used to provide solutions for manufacturers or companies where the original clutch is no longer available or a solution is required for a unique vehicle problem.

The new additions can carry out lengthy cycle tests and produce a detailed graph for every cycle to monitor consistency and wear patterns.

In addition, the digital sensors/transducers on the machines produce highly accurate specification data and characteristics, giving the engineers the benefit of a quicker process with

more information, which allows them to check clutches with greater precision than previously.

With a larger capacity to store information, they also provide more accessibility, as both feed through a central database to give engineers the specific details of every clutch in the Borg & Beck range, with each team member having access at their workstation.

Borg & Beck has the knowledge and ability to take its clutch specialism to a new level as it has, for example, adapted the driven plate equipment to be able to test DMFs up to 260mm.

This enables Borg & Beck to guarantee that its SMF can match the DMF specification as closely as possible.

To reflect the growing use of concentric slave cylinder release systems, the tech centre has a bespoke heat testing chamber.

With the capability to complete pressurised seal testing at 140 degrees, each CSC is put through more than 100,000 cycles.

Having such a comprehensive test facility on site, allows Borg & Beck to underpin its reputation as a leading clutch specialist.

In so doing, it is helping workshops to future proof their businesses in an ever-changing market.

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AN INDEPENDENTLY OWNED & MANAGED BUSINESS

19

OE competence and diagnostic expertise will always come out on top From the moment they sit behind the wheel and start the engine, drivers are completely reliant on a myriad of inter related sensors to relay information for everything from the idle-speed control and the accelerator pedal, to the throttle position, thus effecting the air mass sensor, MAP sensor, EGR valve, exhaust gas pressure sensor, oxygen sensor and knock sensor...

WHEN it comes to the remorseless drive by the VMs to reduce engine emissions and improve fuel efficiency, HELLA’s OE electrical knowledge and experience comes to the fore, as it has designed and manufactures many of the sensors that are required to achieve those duel objectives.

Although technicians at the front line undertaking service and repair will be very familiar with the nature of these systems and the inter reliance of the various elements within, it is important for them to ensure the integrity of the overall package by fitting only OE quality

components when they are tasked with installing a replacement part.

The potential effect on the entire vehicle of using a substandard product can scarcely be overstated, which is why HELLA carries such a large range of OE quality sensors in its comprehensive portfolio.

However, ensuring the use of quality replacements is the final chapter of the story because before effective replacement, comes successful diagnosis.

Diagnosis As workshops need to operate as efficiently as possible – a challenge at the best of times, but made more so by the high rate of technological change – pinpointing the underlying issue and making the correct resolution decision is vital for the profitability of the job and the satisfaction of the customer.

Hella Gutmann Solutions (HGS) Mega Macs range of tools provides technicians with an unrivalled level of diagnostic ability, which is what is needed to correctly identify the faulty component.

By deploying an HGS mega macs device, technicians are equipped with the most up-todate diagnostic technology to allow them to interrogate the very latest of vehicles quickly and accurately.

They are also DoIP (Diagnostics over Internet Protocal)/PassThru enabled and therefore provide workshops with all the options they need to retain business.

20

ADAS CALIBRATION NEEDN’T BE AN OBSTACLE Advanced Driver Assist Systems are already standard features on new models from Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Volvo, and increasingly popular options on many more.

Workshops have a duty of care to calibrate the sensitive camera and radar heads before returning the vehicle back to the customer, even after relatively minor repairs and procedures such as wheel alignment, axle geometry or windscreen replacement. However until now only main dealers have had the tools to perform this essential procedure.

Thankfully, the CSC-Tool from HELLA GUTMANN SOLUTIONS now enables technicians to calibrate both camera and radar-based ADAS. It’s cost-effective and easy to use, compatible with a wide range of vehicle models and integrates with mega macs diagnostic devices, so results to be saved and printed as a permanent record that ADAS calibration has taken place.

So don’t let ADAS calibration be an obstacle in your business, call 01295 662402 or email hgs.support@hella.com

www.hella-gutmann.co.uk

21

HOT TOPICS

The news that got you talking in 2017

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

Have your say on the news

MOT 2017 has also brought news of yet more MOT change.

Among the many changes that have been announced, it is classic car MOTs that have been particularly controversial.

It was announced in September that unmodified vehicles over forty-years-old will become MOT exempt from May 2018 on a rolling basis.

The change will come despite a government consultation in which 1,130 respondents opposed MOT exemption for vehicles over forty-years-old.

Just 899 supported the plans.

GW rounds up the biggest stories of the year

Commenting on GW, Peter Miles of Polson Hill Garage in Crediton, said: “If decisions like this are to be made then they should be made by people who have some idea of what they’re doing.

WITH Chancellor Phillip Hammond pledging to spend hundreds of millions to encourage the development of electric and autonomous cars and news that the government will end the sale of all new conventional petrol and diesel cars by 2040, 2017 has been a big year for the motor industry.

“I recently tested a 44-year-old Rover 3500S and it was a complete, rotten mess to the point where it was hard to tell how the front suspension was still attached to the body.

GWTV attended HELLA GUTMANN SOLUTIONS course on advanced driver assistance systems earlier this year and it turns out that many of the individual components required for autonomous vehicles already exist in cars that you’re likely to find in your workshop.

We’re talking about the likes of VW Golf, Ford Focus and BMW 3 Series from as early as 2013.

This year’s government announcements have prompted 20 per cent of independent garages to invest in training and equipment for alternatively fuelled vehicles, according to a GW reader survey.

It’s encouraging to know that another 26 per cent said that they’ll “be here to service vehicles, no matter how they are powered”.

Following the Autumn Budget, the Independent Garage Association (IGA) urged the government to take action and encourage more people to join the automotive sector, “particularly in light of the millions of pounds they have pledged to spend developing electric vehicles and driverless technology in this budget.”

“The thought that a car like that would now be considered automatically fit to be on the road is terrifying.”

Similarly, an anonymous GW reader commented: “I remember what poor quality they were from new.

“Now they are low-priced classic cars often in the hands of amateur mechanics, I can’t help wondering how well they will be maintained without a regular MOT check.”

Popular 70's cars to get MOT exemption • Ford Cortina

• Austin Allegro

• Ford Escort

• Ford Capri

• Morris Marina

• Austin 1100/1300

• Austin Mini

• Ford Granada

• Vauxhall Viva

• Hillman Avenger

22

HOT TOPICS

Have your say on the news

2017 IN HEADLINES

fined £120K after JAN Garage apprentice accidentally ran over colleague

Health and safety failure left technician with horrific injuries when an 18-year-old apprentice ran him over.

owner speaks MAR Garage out against business rate changes

Some independents face a substantial increase in rates while others will see a dramatic reduction.

garage labour MAY UK’s rates revealed Hourly charges vary from £36 at a Manchester independent to £234 at a Reading main dealer.

highlights MOT JUL DVSA improvements in its first annual review

Report reveals MOT cost savings for agency and motorists but what about test stations?

testing ban for SEP MOT mechanics advertising DPF removals

Two Sheffield testers get twoyear ban after DVSA found they were selling a diesel particulate filter removal services.

you need to NOV Everything know about MOT changes coming in May 2018

Updates to the way MOTs are carried out are to be implemented next year.

Fit charges for FEB Kwik unnecessary work in undercover sting

National fast fit shamed following an investigation, prompted by company whistle-blower.

dieselgate ‘technical APR VW’s fix’ has damaged engines, owners claim

The recall has left many VW drivers with poor fuel consumption and slow acceleration.

evacuated JUN Residents from homes following

acetylene fire at Kwik Fit Police put cordon in place and ten houses are evacuated on advice of Health and Safety Executive.

tells harrowing AUG Garage story of shutter door horror and warns of dangers

Technician pulled his head back inside just moments before the shutter door fell "like a guillotine".

denies BMW owner OCT Dealership of warranty repair because he used non-brand screen wash Customer reluctantly paid over £160 to have washer jets unblocked and is told to use manufacturer's screen wash.

motorway incident DEC “Horrific” prompts safety campaign to

protect roadside technicians Motorists told to "slow down and make space" as latest smash follows two fatalities of roadside operators in 2017.

23

24

New piston and screw compressor service plans from SIP Industrial To coincide with its latest promotion, SIP Industrial Products has released an array of new service plan packages.

INDIVIDUALLY tailored to ensure each compressor model is fully serviced by an official and highly trained SIP service technician, the new service packages are available for both piston and screw compressors and each plan is based on the number of running time hours per year.

The plans run a minimum of 12 months and can be extended to 36 or 60 months.

Piston compressors

“Site support from SIP ensures that only the most qualified technicians, trained completely in-house with specialist knowledge regarding SIP product lines, are sent to service your machines. “This, in turn, provides peace of mind and quality assurance that your machinery has been looked after to the highest degree.�

MORE DETAILS EMAIL 01509 500444

SIP currently has two plans available to cover the complete range of piston compressors.

The core basic package includes one service including all parts, labour and travel, complete environments waste removal, a reliable service reminder, and a comprehensive health check.

A premium plan provides all the benefits of basic, but offers two full services, PUWER certification, on-site training, and an extended warranty.

Screw compressors SIP has three tailored site support plans available for screw compressors.

The core basic and core plus plans offer the same features as the aforementioned piston plans, while the core premium plan provides four services, emergency outof-hours servicing, priority breakdown response and an extended warranty.

A SIP spokesperson told GW Views:

25

26

CAROLINE LAKE OPINION

Opinions, tips and advice

Is diesel really dead?

Founder of Norwichbased Caroline’s Cars, Caroline Lake believes the industry must improve and aims to revolutionise public perception of the trade with a refreshing ‘female friendly’ service.

TWITTER GW columnist, Caroline Lake looks back at the rise and fall of the diesel engine.

WHEN Rudolph Diesel patented his first engine in 1895, little did he know that in the 21st century, it would end up powering almost half of the cars on our roads.

Recently though, diesel has taken a real battering and is now demonised by many on a scale similar to that of asbestos.

So, is diesel really dead?

As a child growing up in the 1970’s my

memories of cars are mostly fond ones.

This was an era where the engine management system consisted of a choke and your right foot, for a lot of families a nonstarting car was almost normal and diesel cars just weren’t on the radar.

Forward to the 1980’s and cars became more complicated, fuel injection, ECU’s and the beginning of a rise in diesel car production.

Anyone who has driven a normally asperated diesel car from the 80’s will tell you that whilst hugely reliable and economical, the driving experience was not an inspiring one, sluggish is an understatement.

Then came the turbo diesel, suddenly we went from achieving 0-60 MPH eventually, to being able to do it in under 12 seconds.

Diesel cars’ new driveability started the rise to popularity.

Forward to the 1990’s when the world became more focused on global warming and climate change, which was particularly linked to CO2 emissions.

Later in this decade the common rail, direct injection diesel engine was introduced, allowing computer control of fuel injection time and quantity into individual cylinders.

This produced quieter, cleaner and more fuel-efficient cars.

In 1998, then-Chancellor of the Exchequer Gordon Brown said diesel cars should be taxed less than petrol cars as they pollute

27

CAROLINE LAKE OPINION

Opinions, tips and advice

plan, which includes possible exclusion zones, changes to road layouts and possible changes to the way diesel cars fewer grams of carbon dioxide per kilometre are taxed. on average.

The emissions scandal was a real wake up In 2001 he introduced new tax bands based call to both the public and the government as it proved just how different, laboratory figures and ‘the real thing’ can be.

“Sales soared from 11 per cent As an MOT tester, it’s frightening how many older diesel cars only just ownership in 2001 to the almost pass the emissions test especially 50 per cent market share diesels given how high the limits are.

All garages have at least a few have in the UK today.” customers who only amble about all year, never getting over 2,000RPM, meaning that come emissions time the poor car needs some additive in the on CO2 emissions which largely favoured fuel tank and a ‘good thrash’ down the road to diesel cars. clean it out so it will pass the test.

So, diesels were cleaner, greener, more fuel Euro 6 emissions regulations introduced efficient and overall cheaper to run – fantastic. in 2015 have tighter than ever limits on what Sales soared from 11 per cent ownership in can come out of the exhaust of a diesel, 2001 to the almost 50 per cent market share supposedly giving us the greener car we are diesels have in the UK today. looking for.

But everything wasn’t fantastic, some But will that be a reality and will regulation, major issues had been overlooked. restriction and taxation spell the end of the Yes, diesels by and large emit less CO2 but diesel? whilst the ozone layer might be slightly better Or will the movement away from diesel off our lungs weren’t. continue to be consumer rather than Local pollution in the form of nitrogen regulation driven? oxide and particulate matter emitted from diesel exhausts have been linked to respiratory and circulatory diseases. “it’s frightening how many older diesel cars Yet ministers took only just pass the emissions test especially nearly a decade to admit they had overlooked these given how high the limits are.” health consequences – no surprise there then.

With diesels at the peak of their popularity Recent polls have shown that as few as 25 in 2015, Dieselgate happened. per cent of consumers would even consider a Yes, naughty Volkswagen had been diesel as their next car purchase. cheating to get their cars to seemingly meet I increasingly hear reports from customer’s the increasingly tight emissions regulations. who are staunch ‘dieselites’ saying that they And let’s face it, although they were the won’t ever buy another. ones who got caught, it’s highly likely that other manufacturers were (and possibly still In fact, my own Father, who hadn’t owned are) ‘up to something’ too. a petrol car since the 1980’s and owns every copy of Diesel Car Magazine ever published, The scandal caused an immediate drop in ditched his diesel last year and went out sales, and what was for a while our favourite and bought himself a petrol runabout. fuel is becoming increasingly demonised.

I think millions will follow.

DEFRA has announced a new air quality

28

Lighting fitment guides Philips Automotive Lighting produces useful step-by-step lighting fitment videos for technicians.

FOR some cars it’s relatively simple to open the bonnet and get to the back of the headlight, remove the old bulb and replace it with a new one.

On others it can be fiddly and with some

“...make it easier for workshop technicians to change the bulbs on the most popular cars” cars, you may have to remove the whole front bumper, grille and wheel arch inners to get to the lights.

The Philips Automotive Lighting Europe YouTube channel offers a range of both technical instruction videos and short product information films to make it easier for workshop technicians to change the bulbs on

the most popular cars on the road.

The range of Philips bulbs is comprehensive and, as well as a full selection of replacement halogen bulbs and HID xenon replacement and upgrade bulbs, also includes LED lighting options for various vehicle applications.

Heading the Philips offer is RacingVision, the first halogen bulb to be rated at +150 per cent compared to the industry standard, which has already proved itself to be the best performing halogen headlamp bulb on the market.

Philips RacingVision headlamp bulb has been awarded the accolade of Headlamp Bulb of the Year in the prestigious Auto Express Product Honours for 2017.

WATCH 29

30

A glance at some of the most popular products, services and offers

PRODUCTS & SERVICES

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New light set for release in January A landmark has been reached in Unilite’s product development with the release of the 1000 lumen USB rechargeable Li-ion PS-IL10R inspection light.

WITH its 1000 lumen Samsung white SMD LEDs providing a fantastic spread of light at close proximity and an encompassing reflector surrounding the LEDs, this lamp offers a fantastic spread of light.

If those options don’t grab you, then pick up the PS-IL10R by its ergonomic grip handle and use it as a portable source of lighting.

In this position, your thumb will be in reach of the two rubberised dimming switches – control the lighting output of either the SMD, or the top torch.

Its construction is as strong as its heritage, with a composition of tough aluminium and a blend of hardened co-polymer surrounding the unit.

This gives it a solid, trusting feel, that you know will withstand all the challenges a workshop will throw at it.

Its case is coated with a yellow high-vis rubber surround, making it easy to spot in a cluttered tool kit.

This will light up the entire engine bay, giving complete coverage in and around all the gaps and crevices.

The PS-IL10R also has a 250 lumen torch in the top of the unit, making it useful for when you want a tighter spot for inspecting brakes and any other tight gaps.

The lamp has a wide range of placement options, with a twisting magnetic hook and a useful foldable kickstand.

33

Craig Harrity OPINION

Opinions, tips and advice

Why independent garages need to face up to hybrid and electRic Technician at Philips Garage in Glasgow, Craig Harrity is the son of the workshop's founder and has been in the trade for over 20 years.

FACEBOOK GW columnist, Craig Harrity talks hybrid and electric vehicles and asks if independent garages are prepared for an accelerated influx of new technology filtering into their workshops for service and repairs.

MARKET trends are showing a rise in sales of electric and hybrid vehicles and, with investment incentives and tax cuts available from government and regulatory authorities, environmentally conscious consumers are opting for greener choices when it comes to purchasing a new vehicle.

Earlier this year, Volvo announced that it would stop making vehicles solely powered by internal combustion engines from 2019.

A couple of months later, and now Jaguar Land Rover say that by 2020 all of their models will be electric or hybrid.

With media documenting vast industry change, we asked ourselves if we're prepared to welcome these changes?

Opportunity Anticipating an increase of hybrid and electric vehicles within our own client database, our technicians underwent training, allowing us to competently deactivate and identify safety risks.

34

Opinions, tips and advice

Craig Harrity OPINION

injury or property damage.

Just one per cent of technicians working within the UK are competently trained to work safely with this high voltage technology.

It means customers are enduring a 50 per cent increase on insurance policies just for owning such vehicles.

At present the majority of technicians

Preparing for change To further vary our services and support growth of UK's vehicle charging infrastructure, we invested in the installation of a dual 22kw electric charging point for our customer car park.

We made further investment of necessary safety equipment including insulating gloves, face shield and category zero insulated tools that are essential for working on or near the high voltage systems.

To highlight the areas of danger, the high voltage components can be identified by a series of warning labels and the high voltage thick cables and installation connectors are easily identifiable as they are coloured bright orange.

There are substantial differences in design and having information specific to the manufacturer and the vehicle of which you are conducting any work is essential to identify what actions are necessary to work safely.

“Just one per cent of technicians working within the UK are competently trained" trained in this field are working exclusively at franchised dealers.

I believe that training should extend to and be mandatory for companies promoting vehicle recovery services.

Did you know that there’s a risk of dangerous voltages being generated by movement of the drive wheels?

What’s more, some of the electronic components may store dangerous amounts of electricity, even when the vehicle is off and the battery is isolated.

There should be consideration to whether the integrity of the battery has been compromised, safely checking and neutralising any electrolyte leaks and, should the vehicle be damaged or faulty, it is essential to isolate the high voltage battery system.

Operators require this knowledge to safely carry out necessary procedures prior to recovering the vehicle to a workshop to avoid

“There’s a risk of dangerous voltages being generated by movement of the drive wheels?"

It’s clear that our reliance on the traditional combustion engine is reducing and creating an opportunity to expand our workshop capabilities, skills and services as independent garages.

The question remains – is your workshop prepared to welcome these changes?

35

Battery-related problems remains the most common cause of breakdowns Profit opportunities to be had by garages thanks to stop/start technology, says ECOBAT Battery Technologies.

PROVIDING ‘traditional’ SLI batteries are maintained properly, they are a remarkably reliable source of power until they need to be replaced at the end of their natural service life.

As replacing them is a simple job for the technician, they generally offer no great profit potential for the workshop.

However, VMs have turned from SLI to a more appropriate battery solution that meets the demands of the changing market.

To address the developmental and environmental issues such as carbon emissions and the effect they have on greenhouse gasses, the most common solution was the introduction of stop/start engine technology, which in turn has driven the development of AGM (absorbent glass mat) and latterly EFB (enhanced flooded battery) car batteries.

First developed in the 1980s for use within the military, the charge and discharge characteristics of AGM batteries are essential for stop/start vehicles.

Battery replacement in vehicles with these engines is a far more profitable exercise, because the process involves the use specialist battery testing equipment and the need of a battery validation tool to reset charge algorithms to factory settings and is generally significantly more labour intensive.

Did you know?

In 2004, five per cent of new cars were fitted with AGM battery technology and in 2014 AGM/EFB batteries totalled 70 per cent.

By 2020 it is predicted the number will be 92 per cent, which means the replacement market in the UK alone will be between 800,000 to one million batteries – some 20 per cent of the total UK replacement market.

It might sound obvious, but it is worth restating that when replacing batteries, technicians must use a battery of the correct specification, whether AGM/EFB or indeed SLI. ECOBAT Battery Technologies (EBT), the UK’s largest automotive and commercial vehicle battery distributor is on hand to provide both the brands, including VARTA, Lucas and Numax, and the tools needed to test, diagnose, find and crucially install AGM/EFB, as well as SLI batteries.

As battery related issues are still the cause of most vehicle breakdowns, EBT recommends that whenever a vehicle enters the workshop, technicians use the opportunity to test the battery and establish its condition.

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TRAINING

Gasoline direct injection Course overview

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

GWTV heads to Delphi’s specialist training facilities in Warwick for its newly launched GDI training course.

“Most vehicle manufacturers have got one if not several GDIs in their range."

Length: One day For: Technicians requiring a greater understanding of GDI management systems.

Provider: Delphi Contents: • Principles of operation.

• Exhaust component operation and diagnosis.

• Fuel system operating modes.

• Fuel pressure testing and measurement.

• Common faults.

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39

Comline underlines filter range strength Proven quality

A new year but the same focus on quality: That’s the message emanating from Comline Auto Parts as it heads into 2018.

The product quality is proven, further evidenced by the recent announcement that Comline has joined the industry elite by becoming a member of the International Filter Testing Services (IFTS), one of the world’s foremost filtration testing organisations.

Being accepted as an IFTS member is a major coup for Comline and emphasises its credentials as a leading filter supplier.

Results of IFTS analysis of Comline filters will allow the company to operate even tighter controls across its range and complement inhouse testing conducted inside the Comline Quality Lab at its UK headquarters.

The blend of in-house and IFTS testing, as well as Comline’s participation in the IFTS Scientific Committee, will result in ‘better than ever’ filter performance.

FILTERATION is the product category where the company first made its name and continues to be the core category for the Comline brand today.

New product brochure

More than 1,800 product part numbers, covering air, oil, fuel, cabin/carbon categories, are sold in their millions every year across more than 40 countries worldwide.

Covering all popular European, Japanese and Korean vehicles, Comline’s filter range is indemand among buying groups and independent motor factors alike; the resultant success has seen Comline forge and cement excellent relationships with its worldwide customer base.

Along the way, Comline has also earned notable accolades as well; A1 Motor Stores members, for example, have voted Comline as their Component Supplier of the Year for the past two years.

Receiving the award underlines the acceptance of Comline by the A1 membership, with those casting their vote specifically highlighting customer service and product quality as major attributes.

To complement its filter portfolio, Comline has created an all-new product brochure designed to showcase the technical aspects of its filters and demonstrate the work that takes place behind the scenes to ensure every one of over 1,800 Comline filters delivers nothing but consistent and reliable performance.

Comline customers can view and download this new brochure from My Comline, the company’s refreshed marketing portal, while hard copies will soon be arriving for customers.

This brochure spearheads an array of Comline ‘First for Filters’ support materials also available to customers through the My Comline marketing portal.

40

Comline air, oil, fuel and cabin/carbon filters deliver crowd-pleasing performance to customers in more than 40 countries worldwide. With over 1800 references covering all popular European, Japanese & Korean vehicles, Comline is your first choice for filters.

For more information visit www.comline.uk.com

41

Institut de la Filtration et des Techniques SĂŠparatives

Have your say on the latest products and services

READER REVIEWS

5.0

Dura workshop furniture

Behind the brand Dura workshop furniture is manufactured in the UK and exported all over the world.

2017 marked 20 years since Dura revolutionised workshop design with its unique modular workshop furniture system –a concept that has since been adopted by both main dealers and independent garages.

The company has achieved the Red Dot International Design Award and its export success has also attracted the Queen’s Award for Enterprise.

MORE DETAILS

Independent European car specialist walks us through an exciting collection of workshop storage solutions.

“Quality and functionality, backed with excellent customer service."

OFFERING design and planning, customisation options, 3D visualisations and installation, Dura boasts “quality and functionality, backed with excellent customer service”, according to a Northamptonshire-

42

Have your say on the latest products and services

READER REVIEWS based independent European car specialist.

Having kitted out his workshop with freestanding configurations of Dura cabinets and wall units – complete with under cabinet lighting – a bespoke draw system and a mobile workstation, Ed Jackson, director at APS told GW why he’s given Dura a full five-star rating.

He said: “Dura has totally transformed our workshop.

“It looks incredibly professional and the quality is outstanding.

“It’s the sort of thing where

show what you can do with the space that you have.

“We chose two large storage units that have cabinets at the bottom, a nice clean work surface on top and a secondary cabinet above that, which we use for things like hand towels – all of the stuff that usually gets piled up in a mess.

“It’s a really interesting process in how they show what you can do with the space that you have."

you think ‘it would be nice to have that one day’ and we assumed that it would be out of our price range but actually the prices are very reasonable for the quality that you get.”

Garage owners can have full involvement in the layout of their workshop storage design as Dura’s design department provide a full consultative design solution using their modular concept to ensure all details are covered.

Ed added: “They provide something that nobody else does.

"It’s a really interesting process in how they

“We’ve got a mobile unit that’s on wheels, which we tend to use it for electrical work and then we’ve got our coffee station in the waiting room which really looks the part.

“We’ve also got a bespoke drawer unit for nuts and bolts under the mezzanine steps, which was previously a messy all-purpose storage area.

“With the new cabinet, it really looks smart and attractive.

“We get customers commenting on these units daily.

“There’s a motorsport firm around the corner from us and the owner comes to us to have his car serviced, he’s thinking about building his own personal garage to store his car collection and have it kitted out with Dura.”

Concluding his review, Ed added: “I cannot criticise Dura at all.

“Nathan, in our workshop, is highly critical of anything that’s not up to scratch but even he can’t say a bad word about it.”

43

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We deliver training that meets the DVSA’s requirements and, what’s more, as the UK’s largest automotive trade body we deliver training in a cost effective manner for the benefit of the entire retail motor industry.

The RMI Academy has sites in Southam, Warwickshire and Runcorn, Cheshire.

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Have your say on the latest products and services

READER REVIEWS

Vetech DPF professional cleaner

4.5 What you need to know • Removes all visible dirt, soot and ash trapped in the filter cores.

• Suitable for aluminium, magnesium, zinc or cadmium parts and all of the latest generation DPFs. • Formulated for professional use.

• Available from GSF Car Parts.

MORE INFORMATION

GW readers report back after trialling the Vetech DPF professional cleaner.

WITH changes expected to be made to better detect failing or removed DPFs, the need for a safe, reliable and affordable alternative to replacement couldn’t be more timely.

Available from GSF Car Parts, the Vetech DPF professional cleaner is thought to have saved motorists millions of pounds in replacement parts.

45

READER REVIEWS

Have your say on the latest products and services

The non-flammable solution, which is supplied in five litre containers, gently breaks down and cleans residues inside the filter itself.

“...gently breaks down and cleans residues inside the filter” To clean the DPF, the filter must first be removed.

It can then be filled with the solution and left overnight before rinsing it through with water in the morning and refitting.

GW reader, Russel Morris of West Harrow Garage in London said: “It’s less expensive

than the DPF cleaning products I have used in the past and it’s just as easy to use.

“I have to say, I would definitely recommend it to other garages because it got rid of the majority of the soot.”

Kevin Thompson, owner of East Kent Autos, is of the same opinion.

He said: “The most difficult part of trying is getting to the DPF. “Once it was off, I used a bit of rag and a plastic bag to make sure it was as watertight as possible and left it to soak overnight.”

Kevin confirmed that the cleaner had successfully removed all visible dirt, soot and ash trapped inside the DPF. He added: “I can’t see inside the DPF but from what I can see, I’m impressed.

“In the past I have used a foam spray

“...you should definitely try this and you’ll get good results." product which provided mixed results and, because you can’t see past the foam, you have to trust that it has actually worked as advertised.

“With this, I can guarantee that it is clean just by looking at it.

“If you’re not happy with the product you’re using then you should definitely try this and you’ll get good results.”

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Have your say on the latest products and services

READER REVIEWS

4.0

OSRAM Night Breaker Laser bulbs

What you need to know • Available in H4 and H7.

• Up to 130 per cent more light than standard.

• Up to 40m longer light beam than standard.

• Up to 20 per cent brighter than standard.

• ECE approved and road legal.

• Like for like replacements.

MORE INFORMATION

GW reader reviews OSRAM’s brightest halogen automotive light yet.

THANKS to innovative laser ablation technology, OSRAM’s Night Breaker Laser bulbs are the brightest in its range of halogen automotive lights.

Shining up to 130 per cent brighter than standard halogens, a combination of highly engineered filament and pure xenon gas filling ensures impressive light output.

GW reader and owner of Shortfeild Garage in Surrey, Andy Parsons has been reviewing these bulbs to see if they meet his high expectations.

48

READER REVIEWS “I swapped one side for the new Night Breaker Laser and left the other as standard before going for a drive at night...”

The promotional packaging promises encouraging claims with of a 20 per cent whiter light and even light beam that’s up to 40 meters longer.

Andy said: “I tried them out in a 10-plate Volkswagen Golf, which was still fitted with the OE standard fitment bulbs.

“I swapped one side for the new Night Breaker Laser and left the other as standard before taking it out at night to see if I really could see the difference.

“These OSRAM bulbs are definitely much more clear and brighter than the standard bulb.”

With above-average brightness and whiter light, OSRAM say drivers will feel fatigue-free when driving for long periods of time at night.

“Fitting bulbs for our customers is a daily thing for us,” Andy explained.

“We're now actually fitting these Night Breaker Laser bulbs and always recommend

Night Breaker Laser

Standard bulb

Have your say on the latest products and services them to customers that complain about low light output.

“From an upsell point of view, these are the halogens to go for because they really are better than standard and your customer will notice a difference.”

While happy to recommend these bulbs to his customers, Andy explained that he’ll continue to offer his customers standard bulbs with Night Breaker Laser bulbs being an upgrade option for them.

“It’s about giving customers the choice and should they go for the Night Breaker Laser, they’ll surely be impressed.”

“...your customer will notice a difference."

Standard bulb

Night Breaker Laser

49

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Sign up to the OSRAM Installer Programme now and fit the best from the biggest OE bulb manufacturer!

OSRAM is the world leading Original Equipment supplier of automotive bulbs and lighting solutions. The professional installer programme allows exclusive access to helpful information and tools that can increase bulb sales. OSRAM is your trusted partner and are offering professional garages and workshops an opportunity to sign up to the OSRAM Installer Programme for free!

For details and to sign up visit: www.osraminstaller.co.uk

50

Technicians urged to apply “check and change” rule

THERE are few product groups within the aftermarket that are overlooked in terms of their regular examination and replacement, but the auxiliary belt and the drive system, are certainly among them.

Unlike the previous generation neoprene rubber based belt, the EPDM formulated belt used nowadays, wears very differently.

So whereas during use, the previous technology would gradually lead the belt to perish by cracking or chunking – when a section of belt actually comes off – the current EPDM technology belt wears gradually, not unlike the wear to a tyre, which actually makes it more difficult to detect.

As a result, technicians should use the vehicle’s mileage as their first point of reference, which means that if the vehicle has covered 60,000 miles or more, the belt should be thoroughly inspected and if it shows any sign of damage or wear, should automatically be replaced.

aWEAR ness gauge To help technicians correctly assess the condition of the belt, Dayco has designed the aWEARness gauge, which provides them with three ways to check whether the belt needs to be replaced or is okay to be reinstalled.

Dayco, a leading engine products and drive systems supplier for the automotive industry, is urging technicians to turn their attention to the auxiliary system for the benefit of the motorist and provide a business opportunity for themselves.

The two most relevant to an EPDM belt are the wear indicator bar, which highlights material loss and the profile indicator, which reveals whether the belt retains its correct form.

Both reflect the level of wear and if the belt fails either check, it must be replaced.

Dayco has almost 1,500 belts – 48 of which are elastic and more than 20 double sided – in its PV range and all are application specific in accordance with the specification of the OE belt, which means technicians can be sure they are fitting the right belt for each and every application.

51

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YOUR

The independent garages you own and love

GARAGE

Community Motors: a workshop that gives back

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

GW meets three dedicated individuals, each enthusiastic about the motor trade, good service and education.

DESCRIBED by one customer as a “refreshing change to most garages”, Community Motors is certainly not your average set up.

Justin Cooper, general manager at Community Motors, had previously worked in IT for more than twenty years before establishing Community Motors.

The business opened just two years ago but it’s quickly grown to become not only a respected local garage but a valued community asset too.

Explaining the move, Justin said: “I wanted to set up a social enterprise that would do some good

“Some of these guys have had a pretty rough start in life...” but would also make enough money to keep itself running.

“I was particularly concerned about the future of young people in our country that aren’t necessarily academic so I turned to the motor trade because it offers young people an opportunity to develop practical skills in an exciting and fast paced field.”

Registered with the Office of the Regulator of Community Interest Companies, Community Motors offers its customers servicing, repairs and MOTs on the one side of the workshop and level one motor vehicle studies on the other.

Training manager, Kevin Martin said: “We provide 14-18 year-old students access to a fully equipped training facility that’s been established alongside a working garage workshop.

“Our students get the best of both worlds because they get to see customers come and go,

they get a feel for the whole experience.”

The kind-hearted technicians of Community Motors each muck in to offer students advice and share experiences.

“We’re giving them skills that will hopefully see them through a worthwhile career in the motor trade,” Kevin explained.

“It’s also about giving them confidence and an opportunity for positive interaction with adults.

“Some of these guys have had a pretty rough start in life and maybe a little bit of respite from the world they are in.

“It's something I experienced when I was their age.

53

The independent garages you own and love

YOUR GARAGE

“I was out on my own by the age of 16 so I can understand a little about where they are coming from.

“It's good to let them know

that they’ll be OK. “They just need to put their head down with some work and everything else will follow.”

Justin met Kevin through a mutual friend – Mark Wedd, who’s the workshop manager for Community Motors.

Mark said: “I've known Justin for quite a few years and he was looking to give something back to the community.

“Myself and Kevin have been in the trade since we left school.

“We were both apprentices at main dealers and ended up working for the RAC together when Justin approached me with the idea.

“Over a period of a year we met to discuss what we would do and how we would go about it.”

While the three openly admit that it was hard work to get going, it seems the effort was certainly worth it.

This year, the enterprise has seen triple the amount of students undertake level one at Community Motors.

Practical training sessions take place in two dedicated bays – one equipped with a two-poster ramp – located within a sectioned area of the main workshop while theory sessions are held in two onsite classrooms.

The students have access to all of the necessary tools and equipment, working on engines and training vehicles: a 2010 Suziki Swift and a 2000 Volkswagen Polo.

“Students are referred to us by local schools, special needs schools and pupil referral units,” Kevin explained.

“They have a morning or afternoon session once a week, depending on how it fits in with school.

“They then tend to move on to college for level two or get an apprenticeship.”

Getting to know Mark, workshop manager What's the best car you’ve worked on?

Well I trained on Jaguars but I’ve worked on some lovely Ferraris and Maseratis over the years.

We’ve had some very nice classics here at Community Motors too.

And the worst car?

We had a Land Rover in and the chassis was in a pretty bad shape.

Someone had tried welding it but I’m afraid it was terminal.

What's the most useful garage tool you have used?

We’ve got a mid-range Launch diagnostics tool and that's really helpful, simple to use and quick.

There’s also another called Autocom that we use, it’s probably not as well-known though.

What's the most useless garage tool you have ever used?

We bought a piece of equipment to put CV boots on which is pretty useless.

And then there's a bit of kit we got in with health and safety in mind: it's a tyre lifting device to make sure everything is done in the correct manor.

I think the guys have just pushed it in the corner and I don't think it's ever been used.

What's your ideal day off?

Funnily enough, this was a question I was asked the other day.

I'd love to be out in a sailing boat in some tropical climate with turquoise sea.

That's the view I have in my head when you talk about an ideal holiday but I've got a family so it's probably very unlikely.

54

What profession would you be in if you weren’t a vehicle technician?

What is the highlight of your career so far?

Many years ago I'd applied for a job as a paramedic but I didn't have any medical background whatsoever really.

Putting this place together, we're proud of what we've done here.

Had I got the job, I don't know if I would have enjoyed it.

Fixing cars is in my DNA. This trade goes right back to horses and carriages in my family.

My dad started as a mechanic and ended up owning a body shop.

I did an apprenticeship at Guy Simmons Jaguar back in the 70's before joining my dad and brother.

What was the most embarrassing moment of your career?

I can't think of one that I'd want to mention anyway.

Well there's the long wait at the parts shop.

I think most apprentices have been told to get one of those at some point.

The garage trade has changed a lot though – none of that happens here!

What is the biggest challenge the industry faces at the moment?

I've been in the trade since the 1970's, so I've seen things come and go.

People were worried about ignition points when they went away and electronic ignition came in.

I think obviously the way things are going with emissions, there’s going to be a big move to hybrid and electric vehicles.

We've not really got too involved with that so we've got a lot to catch up with but there's lots of fossilfuelled vehicles still out there.

We're a new business so we've already made huge investments but we’re looking to get the necessary equipment for hybrid and electric cars when we're ready.

We will adapt, we have to.

With new technology over the years, independents have always had to adapt and we’ll adapt for hybrid and electric cars too.

The Garage Equipment & Diagnostic Specialist * Bosch Equipment specialist * GEA accredited engineers * Huge range of products * Most major brands covered * Dedicated diagnostic specialists * Professional technical support * Competitive distribution discounts

More than just a Supplier

Experts in the field of Auto Diagnostics Talk to us to discuss your requirements

GARAGE EQUIPMENT - DIAGNOSTICS - AIRCON - EMISSION

01823 328531 www.hickleys.com diagnostics@hickleys.com

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SVS Autocentre discovers exciting new training concept Digital training is a “no brainer”, reports garage owner.

MARC Light, owner of SVS Autocentre in Lanarkshire, recently embarked on a crusade to get himself and his staff up to date, with the help of online training provider, Our Virtual Academy (OVA).

Before subscribing to OVA, Marc’s training arrangements involved occasional classroombased training courses, or – more frequently – nothing at all.

Speaking to GW, he said: “I’m sure quite a few of us have forked out money for a training course, sat in a classroom all day, and returned to work none the wiser.

“This can be downright frustrating, not to mention expensive.

“You have the price of the course, travel, and most of all time away from work; that adds up, and it hurts small businesses.”

For Marc, OVA provides an opportunity to train at his own pace and convenience.

“This allows us to have a vehicle hooked up in the workshop and data fed to the screen in the diagnostic room.

“I found this method of merging the two systems beneficial to the staff, both in how they learned from OVA and how they put that new-found knowledge into practice.

“Whenever possible we now combine the training with a real-life application.”

“Diagnosis and electrical systems is no longer the monster it used to be.

“Instead of blank faces when I am explaining how a system works, I have nods of agreement and even questions.”

Thanks to OVA, Marc believes his technicians now have more confidence because they have both the tools and knowledge needed to get the job done.

“That might sound simplistic,” he concludes, “but without OVA where would I be?

“Probably where I was beforehand — doing it myself and muttering under my breath.”

Convenience “I have myself and my staff on a yearly subscription for the price of two class-based training modules,” he explained.

“We now have a dedicated training and diagnostic room set aside, in which we have a PC setup with OurVirtualAcademy.com as the homepage and beside it a Snap-On Versus Edge connected via Bluetooth to a touchscreen monitor.

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T H E F U T U R E O F A U T O M O T I V E T E C H N I C A L T RA I N I N G WHAT IS ‘OUR VIRTUAL ACADEMY’?

Video based technical training courses Online - unlimited access Improved knowledge retention over face to face training Currently over 80 chapters with content added regularly Topics include Hybrid, Air Conditioning, Engine Management, Essential Electrical Skills, Chassis Systems, Vehicle Body Electrics and many more MANAGEMENT FEATURES: Built in learning management system monitors training progress* Integrated certification system

* Multi user plans

Call 020

3286 2228 or email Info@OurVirtualAcademy.com

O U RV IRT U A LACADEM Y.C O M

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ON THE ROAD

Aftermarket features worth reading

BG Products: how to tackle DPF problems properly

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

GWTV visits PSI Tuning in Newcastle-under-Lyme to find out more about the BG diesel intake and emissions system cleaner.

“You’re actually starting at the source of the problem…”

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“Just 28 per cent of drivers plan to use their current garage for their next service or repair” Source: WhoCanFixMyCar.com

We can help.

Get on board with BG Products today!

• Increased Customer Visits • Customer Retention

• Customer Satisfaction • Increased Profitability

Ask about our service performance guarantees - They’re great for customer retention!

“Average profit increased by over 30% per customer” Independent 2-bay garage BG Complete DPF & Emissions System Service BMW 3 Series (98,000 miles) Vehicle suffering from running issues, exhaust smoke and poor MPG due to soot overloading the Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF)

DPF Pressure Before Service: • 228mb at idle • 616mb at wide -open-throttle = Blocked!

Before BG

After BG DPF Pressure After Service: • 6mb at idle • 93mb at wide-openthrottle = Clean!

BG Complete DPF & Emissions System Service • Restores engine combustion efficiency AND regenerates the Diesel Particulate Filter • Service completed in-situ in approx 1 hour - No need to send parts away for cleaning

Leaders in automotive solutions and improving garage profitability www.bgprod.co.uk

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T: 01284 777934

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Email: info@bgprod.co.uk

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ON THE ROAD

Aftermarket features worth reading

Ford 1.8TDCi: timing chain or timing belt?

by Mike Ruff, GW Editor

Dayco issues warning on GWTV with concerns that workshops remain unaware that Ford’s popular 1.8 TDCi Lynx engines can have two high tenacity timing belt systems.

“If you’re changing the dry belt and not the wet belt, you could be liable for belt failure.”

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TYRE CHANGER AND WHEEL BALANCER KIT STOCK No. 16235 WHEEL BALANCER EASY TO CALIBRATE BALANCES STEEL OR ALUMINIUM WHEELS, MAXIMUM RIM 24” DIAMETER x 20” WIDTH

TYRE CHANGER FOR STEEL OR ALUMINIUM WHEELS

WHEELS UP TO MAXIMUM WEIGHT 65KG, 43” DIAMETER x 35” WIDTH ACCURACY OF 1 GRAM

FOR RIMS 13” TO 23” MAXIMUM WHEEL DIAMETER 41”

Strength in Quality

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What is induction heating and why is it important?

GW Views puts the question to Alicia Hawkins, marketing manager for Induction Innovations, manufacturers of the Inductor tools.

INDUCTION heating is used to bond, harden or soften metals or other conductive

Electromagnetic induction is a magnetic flux through a surface bounded by the conductor.

The solid-state RF power supply sends an AC current through a copper coil and the part to be heated is placed inside the coil.

The coil serves as the transformer primary and the part to be heated becomes a short circuit secondary.

When a metal part is placed within the induction coil and enters the magnetic field, circulating eddy currents are induced within the part.

“Invisible, flameless heat is transferred to the product via electromagnetic waves,� materials and offers an attractive combination of speed, consistency and control.

Invisible, flameless heat is transferred to the product via electromagnetic waves, the part never comes into direct contact with any flame and the coil itself does not get hot.

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These eddy currents flow against the electrical resistivity of the metal, generating precise and localised heat without any direct contact between the part and the coil.

The varying magnetic field required for induction heating is developed through the flow of alternating current in the coil.

Coil design is one of the most important aspects of the overall system.

A well-designed coil provides the proper heating pattern for your part and maximizes the efficiency of the induction heating power supply, while still allowing easy insertion and removal of the part.

The Inductor coils come in different diameters and can be shaped to fit the application, allowing access to tight areas.

MORE DETAILS 01953 859138

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63

Review: Autoinform 2017 The UK’s biggest workshop training event brings fresh content for technicians hungry for tips, techniques and knowledge on new and emerging technologies.

TECHNICIANS from across the country and beyond have once again gathered at the GTG Training Academy in Wolverhampton for Autoinform Live.

“We’re getting good numbers and the right calibre of people: those who want to progress and succeed in the industry.”

Held in November and organised by the Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association (OESAA), the two-day event featured sessions delivered by OE suppliers and well-respected industry figures.

Automotive training expert, Frank Massey was on-hand to deliver training sessions on future technologies and industry issues, such as ‘pumping losses’ – the mechanical inefficiency of a gasoline engine caused by the position of the throttle – and vibration analysis.

He said: “The event changes every year, and each time we try to put a different ‘flavour’ on it; for example, we might concentrate on ignition, common rail or emissions, which is a

really big issue at the moment.

“It means we have to do a lot of research – which is great for us – and to-date it’s been really well received.

“We’re getting good numbers and the right calibre of people: those who want to progress and succeed in the industry.”

With the seminar schedule divided into three categories, Autoinform LIVE 2017 gave delegates the option of booking the program which best suited their requirements.

OESAA Chairman, Nigel Morgan said: “The reason we continue to organise these events remains unchanged: as technology evolves it really is the OE suppliers who are best placed to support the people who are fitting our products.

“Roughly 50-60 per cent of attendees come every year because they recognise that technology moves on so quickly, and we give them the knowledge they need to stay ahead of the game.”

MORE DETAILS TWITTER 64

OESAA

Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association

FRANK ONLY FITS OE Frank Massey is not just a familiar and trusted face in workshop magazines and at training events around the country, but he also runs ADS, one of the most successful independent workshops in the UK. Frank insists on using genuine parts from OE suppliers in every single one of his customer’s cars whatever the problem. He believes that this is the best and only way he can deliver an efficient, professional and safe repair. He knows that parts from OE suppliers have been tested and approved for original fitment by the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers, so they will not compromise on quality, reliability and most importantly - safety.

Will cheaper alternatives look, feel and drive the same as the originally fitted components?

To protect his customers and his reputation, Frank only fits parts from OE suppliers.

So should you.

OE SUPPLIERS. OUR QUALITY. YOUR REPUTATION.

www www.oe-suppliers.org

info@oe-suppliers.org

@OESuppliers

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