Commercial Vehicle Workshop November 19

The trade magazine for servicing and repair professionals

COMMERCIAL WORKSHOP

ROAD TO RETREAD

NOVEMBER 2019

Is there a better alternative to buying and fitting new tyres?

Also in this issue…

■ Why mental health matters ■ Case study: wireless mobile column lifts ■ Tips on protecting axles in the winter ■ Competitions and Giveaways

CONTENTS

Volume 16

REGULARS

Issue 10

5 Viewpoint

17 Health & Safety

6 News

60 MECHANEX Monthly

11 Tech Tips

64 What’s New?

14 Business & Legislation

25

SPECIAL REPORTS 20 A look at a Bristol-based battery supplier’s offering 22 The DVSA’s 2019 Annual Test Report

33

25 Visiting a state-of-the-art remanufacturing facility

DIAGNOSTICS 26 Recalibrating a tricky ‘Powertronic’ transmission system 29 Research into battery health during diagnostics 30 How simple is it to retrofit an entire fleet with safety systems?

TYRES & WHEELS 33 Best practice tips for tyre replacement 34 Keeping winter tyre worries at bay 36 A visit to Continental’s retreading facility 38 Pushing truck tyres to their limits

AXLES & SUSPENSION 41 Case study: axle systems that are built to last 42 Step-by-step precautions to take with axles 45 A look at new ‘E-coating’ technology

52

TOOLS & WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT 47 How wireless mobile column lifts can benefit fleets of all sizes 48 The strengths and weaknesses of rotary screw air compressors 51 How one equipment supplier efficiently installs pits 52 Case study: the complete vehicle lift offering 54 What makes a cam-aligner futureproof?

COMPETITIONS 56 Win a battery booster, courtesy of Bahco!

59 Your chance to win a cabin air purifier!

61 Giveaways 63 Get your hands on an Amazon Echo Dot in this month’s Tea Break Teaser!

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 3

VIEWPOINT

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Wheels in motion

Editor JAMES BURMAN Assistant Editor BEN LAZARUS Editorial Assistant LAURA GUALDI Consulting Editor SHARON CLANCY Advertisement Manager ALEX DILLEIGH Group Advertisement Manager ROBERT GILHAM Group Manager OLIVER SHANNON Graphic Designer GEMMA WATSON Group Production Manager CAROL PADGETT Assistant Production Manager CLAIRE PICTON Publisher BRYAN SHANNON Subscriptions COMMERCIAL VEHICLE WORKSHOP is a business magazine for companies and individuals involved in all aspects of commercial vehicle servicing.

It is published 11 times a year and is available on free subscription to qualified readers.

Subscription rates: UK £30 To be removed from this magazine’s circulation, please call 01923 237799 or email circulation@hamerville.co.uk.

Printed by Wyndeham (Roche) Ltd Published by HAMERVILLE MEDIA GROUP Regal House, Regal Way, Watford, Herts WD24 4YF Tel: (01923) 237799 Website: www.hamerville.co.uk Copyright © 2019

10,066 From 1 July 2018 to 30 June 2019

Associate member

W

hen you hear people talking about emissions, your mind likely jumps to smoky factories, innumerable cars on motorways, cheap flights to Europe, and maybe even the trucks sitting in your workshop right now.

And you’d be right to think of those things, as they make up a large part of the problem. Emissions come in many forms; burning fuel isn’t the extent of it. A few times in the last month, I’ve ended up in conversations about tyre emissions, and the rubber particulates tyres emit every moment the wheels of a vehicle are moving, and even more so when a vehicle brakes. It is also becoming a growing concern what to do with tyres that have reached the end of their life. In extreme cases, many are dumped or burned.

The primary reason why tyres aren’t usually lumped in with traditional emissions issues is that they make up a very small proportion of the problem. Put it this way – Greta Thunberg and friends have their eyes locked on governments, like France and Germany, as well as a handful of global oil magnates. Within the 2019 climate change movement, activists are – quite rightly – more concerned by the engine emissions of a truck, than their tyres.

That said, the environmental damage that can be caused by tyres is not something to be ignored. Using commercial vehicles for transport and haulage is effective and at the moment a cleaner alternative to other methods of transportation. Especially in light of the increasing number of goods being delivered to retail and consumers on a daily basis, our industry is stronger than ever. But this means there are more vehicles on the road, which increases the chances that the use of vans and trucks will more frequently enter the crosshairs of activist groups and the mainstream media. It has already begun; www.rdr.link/VJ042. see this recent article from Friends of the Earth – You’ll be pleased to know that many of the main tyre manufacturers and retreaders are already conscious of the issue, and many seem to be taking the necessary steps to ensure that it doesn’t get out of hand. Until tyre technology evolves, the emission of rubber particulates is unavoidable, so relevant businesses are making strides to ensure they are ‘environmental’ in other ways.

During my recent visit to Continental’s retreading facility in the south of England, I became confident that the problem is in hand. Turn to page 36 of this issue to learn more about the steps the company is taking to make sure it remains environmentally responsible as a producer of tyres. The extent it is going to to repurpose old tyres, recycle tyre scrap, and also save energy on the whole was reassuring to witness.

If tyres are not a big contributor to global warming when compared to other forms of pollution, then why am I talking about it you might ask? Because it’s important to be aware of potential issues our industry might face in the coming years, and to know that those responsible are already aware and proactive.

Enjoy the issue and have a great month,

James Burman

Editor

The publishers and editor do not necessarily agree with the views expressed by contributors, nor do they accept responsibility for any errors of translation in the subject matter in this publication

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 5

NEWS

‘Outstanding’ Coach & Bus UK brings all the big names to Birmingham Coach & Bus UK proved a big hit with the nation’s coach, bus and mini-vehicle operators last week, welcoming 5,672 attendees from across the UK to the NEC Birmingham on 2nd and 3rd October.

Key innovators, influencers, buyers, specifiers and senior decision makers were out in force at the show. Notably, around a third of visiting operators were owners, partners, CEOs or MDs, marking a 5% rise in senior executives at the show compared to 2017. Richard Crump, MD of Pelican Bus and Coach Yutong, called it ‘outstanding’, commenting, “The quality of visitors has once again been first rate.”

Amongst the attendees this year were representatives from companies such as Arriva, Big Bus Tours, Scottish CityLink, and many more. Local authorities, community transport providers, specifiers,

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and partnership coordinators from across England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, were also well represented. This year, there were 192 exhibitors and 88 vehicles on display, filling over 16,000m² at the NEC. The Theatre drew crowds looking to hear insights, strategies and advice from business leaders from the Confederation of Passenger Transport UK (CPT), Stagecoach, Transport for London, and more.

Event Director, Helen Conway, commented, “Coach & Bus UK is where the industry does business. Once again, it was buzzing with networking, deals, launches and big reveals, as customers, suppliers, friends and colleagues came together to enjoy all the best and latest developments at their industry show.” The event also saw the addition of two new sections, the Innovation Challenge and the Zero Emissions Zone, which contained immersive rides on demonstrations of some of the most environmentally-friendly fleet vehicles in the market. Amongst these was the first public demonstration of the UK’s first fullsize autonomous bus. The Enviro200, developed by Fusion Processing, Alexander Dennis and Stagecoach Group, proved to be a popular addition in particular.

Not limited to showing off new developments, Coach & Bus UK also plays a vital role in the market engagement process for a number of companies. Mark Osmer, Group Fleet Procurement at Translink, explained that this year’s show was also “An essential part of our supply chain. It provided valuable insights into emerging technologies, topical industry themes and product innovations, specifically with regards to emissions and clean air developments.” With over 192 exhibitors and 5,672 attendees, the event also proved to be an excellent opportunity to network, with James Horseman, Company Director at Horseman Coaches, adding: “Coach & Bus UK continues to provide the basis for great networking opportunities while showcasing all the latest innovations and improved technology within the industry.”

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Juratek announces management buyout © BUSARA/AdobeStock

FTA calls for complete abolition of tariffs on new trucks A reduction in the tariff, from 25% to 10% is a move in the right direction, but FTA has called for the abolition of tariffs on trucks entirely.

Speaking on behalf of the logistics industry, FTA’s Deputy CEO, James Hookham, said, "This move is not enough. Vehicle operators are under massive pressure to use newer, cleaner vehicles, and operators need

incentives to replace trucks more quickly, not penalties that hinder their purchase.”

"This is a tax on quality; new trucks are cleanest and safest, and the Government wants to increase their price by three times the rate of inflation. A 10% price increase on new trucks will hinder the logistics industry’s contribution to environmental savings. #ScraptheTariff completely is our message to Government.”

WLTP causes a 23.5% decline in LCV registration “Registrations of light commercial vehicles weighing up to 3.5 tonnes fell by 23.5% in September, as a result of the Worldwide Harmonised Light Vehicle Test Procedure (WLTP)”, said Sue Robinson, Director of the National Franchised Dealers Association.

© beysim/AdobeStock

Following eight months of growth, 41,216 LCVs were put on UK roads in September 2019, compared with the 53,848 vehicles in the same period last year. September saw the introduction of WLTP engine emission regulations applied to vans and light trucks, causing a shortage of product availability.

Sue added, “We are expecting the market to rebalance in the final quarter of 2019 as the WLTP changes work through the system.

The market is still up 4.5% year-to-date, however, whilst dealers are saying there is still pent-up demand in the market, many buyers are holding off making purchasing decisions until the current political and economic uncertainty dissipates.”

Existing shareholders Matt Robinson (Managing Director), Toby Whewell (Sales and Marketing Director) and Mark Clegg (Operations Director) have now taken full control of Juratek after acquiring the remaining shareholdings from outgoing Chairman Allan Hooks.

Matt commented, “We are delighted to have completed the acquisition of Juratek, and we have exciting plans to continue the growth of the company both in the UK and overseas markets.”

“The company has seen a sustained period of growth and transition in the past five years, and we are well placed to take advantage of the opportunities open to us. Between us, we have over 70 years’ experience in the automotive aftermarket, but we also retain the energy and passion needed to drive the company to even greater success.”

Allan added, “I have seen Juratek grow and develop into a well-respected aftermarket company both in the UK and Europe. Its commitment to quality remains paramount to its trading ethos.

After 20 years with the company, I believe it is time for me to hand over the reins to the management team led

by Matt Robinson, in whom I have full confidence.”

NEWS Emulating combustion engine sound is the best way to improve electric bus safety Brigade Electronics has developed the QVS for electric and hybrid vehicles, warning road users of the silent vehicle’s presence and position.

Transport committee welcomes the DfT’s commitment to a longterm bus strategy

In May 2019, the Transport Committee published a report urging the Government to create a bus strategy to halt the decline in bus use.

Bus services in England, outside of London, considered the health of the bus market and called on the Government to establish clear ambitions for bus use in a single strategy.

The Chair of the Transport Committee, Lilian Greenwood MP, commented, “I am delighted that the Department for Transport is finally on board with a national strategy for buses. This represents a major achievement, given that the former Secretary of State for Transport told our Committee inquiry that his Department didn’t ‘really do buses’. Passengers, industry, campaigners and MPs have been urging the Government to set out clear ambitions for bus services, just like rail investment and road development. A single strategy for bus use was central to our findings, and the most widely used form of public transport is due this attention.” ©dusanpetkovic1/AdobeStock

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The rise in the popularity of electric buses has undoubtedly brought a stream of benefits. However, with it has come the very real danger that the vehicles pose to pedestrians and other vulnerable road users, who might not hear the almost silent vehicles approaching when they are travelling at low speeds. Emily Hardy, a Road Safety Specialist at Brigade Electronics UK, explained, “In particular, electric buses which will regularly be slowing down as they approach bus stops in busy, built-up areas, and will not always be seen.”

The absence of a combustion engine means that when electric vehicles slow

down to speeds below 20kph/12.5mph, they are almost silent. Research has shown that EVs and hybrids are 37% more likely to be involved in pedestrian incidents compared with conventional vehicles because of this. To combat this risk, the UN has introduced legislation requiring the use of Acoustic Vehicle Alert Systems (AVAS) on electric vehicles.

Brigade Electronics, a company which specialises in road safety technology, has spent more than a decade developing the Quiet Vehicle Sounder (QVS). Designed emulate the sound of combustion engines and to warn road users of approaching silent electric and hybrid vehicles, the QVS creates a highly directional and instantly locatable warning at low speeds. The sound is only heard in the hazard zone, dissipating quickly and cutting out at higher speeds.

©ChristianMuller/AdobeStock

Greater Manchester launches major public consultation on how buses should be run Greater Manchester is launching a major public consultation to get a wide range of views on how the city-region’s bus services should be run.

People across the region and beyond are being invited to have their say on a proposed bus franchising scheme through the consultation, running until Wednesday 8th January 2020. Currently in Greater Manchester, individual bus companies decide the routes, timetables, fares and standards. There is no coordination between bus services and other forms of public transport, and bus services across Greater

Manchester are inconsistent.

Since the assessment of a proposed franchising scheme was completed, the government has indicated that it will support Greater Manchester to “deliver a London-style bus system in the area,” which could include revenue funding.

Deputy Mayor, Sir Richard Leese, said, “We think that the proposed bus franchising scheme is the best way to deliver a joinedup public transport network with simple fares and ticketing, and the improved customer experience that passengers in Greater Manchester deserve.”

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M.I.N.T and ATT team up to tackle mental health

Alliance Transport Technologies partners with M.I.N.T organisation to help men speak up when it comes to mental health.

© Condor36/AdobeStock

Road safety trust launches small grants programme Charities, local authorities and community groups are being urged to apply for a new grant fund aimed at improving road safety.

Road Safety Trust, a charity dedicated to making the UK’s roads safer, launched its Small Grants Funding Programme to help improve road safety at a local level. The total value of the fund is £120k, with each project to be awarded between £10k and £30k. Projects should have a practical purpose with the aim of trialling or testing ways to improve road safety.

According to the Department for Transport, there were 1,793 reported fatalities on UK roads in 2017. The Road Safety Trust is the largest road safety grant

giver in the UK, and funds vital research and practical interventions committed to reducing the number of people killed or injured on UK roads. Sally Lines, Chief Executive of Road Safety Trust, commented, “We identified a need for funding for smaller, local projects with a practical focus. We are looking for measurable interventions that reflect local priorities and show a proposed link to reducing casualties, either directly or through clear interim measures.”

The Small Grants Programme will be open for applications until 20th December.

For more information and to apply for funding, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ001

PPG strengthens national proposition with senior appointment

PPG Refinish UK has announced the promotion of Lee Stevens to Commercial Transport Sales Manager, a role created to focus solely on the commercial transport market.

develop strong customer relationships across PPG’s Commercial Transport segment.

Looking forward to the challenge, Lee said, “As with most markets, commercial transport is highly cost-driven, In his new role, Lee will be but price per litre isn’t the whole working for PPG with overall story – my role is to ensure that Lee Stevens responsibility for sales teams our whole team is across the UK and Ireland working on the communicating the efficiency of our commercial transport refinish offering. Lee’s product and the benefits they bring to the primary objective is to maintain and CT marketplace.”

Aftermarket solutions provider, Alliance Transport Technologies (ATT), has partnered with M.I.N.T (Men in Need Together) to give men in the automotive industry a voice when it comes to mental health. M.I.N.T works across many sectors, offering support groups where men can open up about how they’re feeling and support each other in a safe environment.

Joshua Sturgeon, founder of M.I.N.T, said, “One of our key goals as an organisation is to create a safe space where men can be open and honest about their feelings. There’s a lot of stigma around mental health for men, and it can often be seen as weak to speak up when feeling low. It’s more important than ever in industries heavily dominated by men that we combat mental health head on.”

Some male dominated industries, such as automotive, often call for independence, working away or long hours, which can lead to individuals feeling isolated or alone. ATT aims to ensure that all members of the team have a healthy relationship with work.

Marc Haley, Director of ATT, added, “Having seen the devastating effects of poor mental health first-hand, we knew that it was imperative to offer support and give a voice to our employees, as well as raising awareness to all those within the sector that they are not alone.”

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TECH TIPS

The grateful eight Picking up from where he left off in last month’s issue, Pico technician Ben Martins continues his overview of the new 8-channel PicoScope 4823, which he tested when overseeing a DAF rear steering fault. Not only did Ben have eight channels to play with, he also had the opportunity to put Pico’s WPS600C Hydraulic Pressure Transducers to work.

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s the fault only occurred after some time had passed, I was going to be looking at a relatively slow time base. Switching to streaming mode dropped the sample rate and limited the number of buffers to one. From here, I was able to capture the fault, and then use the zoom and filtering tools to help highlight the areas of concern in greater detail.

From the screenshot, we can see that as the steering started to turn and SP201 was activated to allow the pressure to increase, the accumulator solenoid, SP071, was activated to allow the oil to pass to the safety circuit, freeing the cylinder and allowing movement. SP051 was also activated, preventing the flow of oil to return to the tank easily, meaning we could use the oil flow to do ‘work’ and steer the rear axle. During the movement of the rear axle, we noted that the operation wasn’t smooth; if something would catch, it

would then release. There was also a noise that occurred, which sounded like the release of pressure or a change in a valve.

The noise occurred at the same time as the peaks in the centring circuit pressure.

Could this be the first clue of the puzzle?

The left-hand time ruler was positioned just as the warning light in the cab came on, which tells us that something happened, and by using an additional time ruler, we can see that three seconds lapsed with the pressure measured at zero. The pressure in the centring circuit was meant to be maintained at 28 BAR. I’ve added a vertical ruler at this figure, and we can clearly see that it is much higher than this, and peaks at around 180 BAR. One interesting note was that the accumulator valve was switched off with the fault, and we got a command for an increase in steering pressure, which is seen on Channel B.

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Important things to note from this capture: â– The pressure is being commanded and

increased by SP201 as expected â– The accumulator solenoid is being

activated during steering, but shut off once the fault and DTC triggered ■SP051 is being commanded during steering as expected ■Both angle sensors are changing in connection with steering input from the driver ■System pressure appears good with no excessive spikes other than after fault I believed that the supply of oil was good and that the pressure represented the command from the SP201 valve. We felt that we didn’t need to look towards the front valve block, and by swapping the current clamp to SP041, we could see how this valve was interacting with the centring

í˘´ NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 11

TECH TIPS

circuit pressure. On top of this, every time there was a pressure increase in the centring circuit, there was a small pressure spike in the steering circuit. The only way these two circuits can interact is via the SP041 valve, which is there to supply or discharge the centring circuit pressure.

From the capture above, we can see that the SP041 plays a part during the pressure increase in the centring circuit, and if we zoom in around this, we can view it in more detail.

It’s clear that every time we saw a pressure spike, the SP041 solenoid was activated and the pressure dropped rapidly.

However, the only place it could go was back into the system pressure. Knowing that the system pressure was lower around the same time as the spike, it would make sense that the spike we see in the system pressure came from the centring pressure circuit. We could also see the solenoid being activated at various points during this capture, not just at the spikes.

Covering all bases The EMAS ECU was monitoring pressure, the question was: where does the pressure go when the fault occurs? We knew from the technical information that the pressure should be constant, but we had varying fluctuations from 0 to 178 BAR. Happy that the system was responding electrically to what it saw, the only other components left were the accumulator and the steering cylinder. At this point, you could make a call and just replace the cheapest option, or we could try and work out if there was a way for us to verify the failing part. Going back to our earlier drawing of the cylinder, we

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í˘ˇ could see that there was a path back to the tank for the oil. Inevitably, hydraulic circuits are never completely sealed, and there will always be some leakage across seals. What if the seal between the floating cylinder and the tank line was leaking? Would this cause a significant pressure loss to cause the fault?

And how can we prove it? Looking at the cylinder, we decided that we could manoeuvre the cylinder all the way out. This would leave a large void behind the endplate of the floating cylinder. If we could maintain a pressure in the centring circuit by holding on a hard lock, and we saw no activation from the SP041 to relieve pressure, then we would be satisfied that it wasn’t leaking excessively over this area.

As we can see, we held a steady pressure for around 53 seconds while holding on a

í˘ś 12 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

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full lock. When we released the steering wheel without turning, the pressure started to fall away slightly. However, this happened nowhere near as rapidly as before, and it certainly didn’t drop low enough to trigger the fault code. Seeing this, I felt there was enough evidence to prove that the cylinder in this instance wasn’t leaking internally, as we were happy that the pressure dropping away in the centring circuit was not down to a cylinder leak.

Sometimes, proving what isn’t faulty is as important as proving what is.

í˘š Finally, only the accumulator remained, but how could this be the cause of the fault? The accumulator takes on pressure and then releases it, as the system requires it to maintain a constant pressure. Why didn’t we just replace it earlier? That would have meant opening the hydraulic lines and risk contaminating the system for the sake of a guess.

Removing an accumulator, for example, should only be done when you are 100% certain there is no pressure in the circuit. We had seen the centring pressure reach 178 BAR at times, so we had to be absolutely confident that it had been discharged first.

Once it was removed and compared to a new one, it was clear that we did indeed have a faulty accumulator.

The green valve you can see in the new unit indicates that the bladder is fully inflated, whereas it is nowhere to be seen in the old one. A borescope revealed that the bladder was completely deflated and the valve was positioned near the bottom. There was only one thing left to do then; refit the accumulator, making sure that everything is tightened to the correct specifications, and bleed the system. Using dealer equipment meant we had access to the air bleed option that instructed the EMAS to purge any air from the system. Once this was complete, and after a quick check for leaks, we could carry out the verification.

As you can see from the capture above, we completely lost all the spikes from the centring pressure when we were operating the steering. SP041 was no longer having to be activated to remove any excessive pressure or be opened to allow pressure back in to compensate for a pressure drop. The centring pressure sits very smoothly at around 40 BAR, which may settle further considering

“Sometimes, proving what isn’t faulty is as important as proving what is.�

that the technical information we have found states it should be maintained at around 28 BAR. However, the pressure was maintained after the steering manoeuver had finished.

Even when the system pressure dropped considerably, we still had pressure in the centring circuit, which wasn’t happening prior to the accumulator being replaced. The vehicle has now been road-tested and no further faults have been reported.

This case study shouldn’t be used as a training guide to hydraulics. What it can do is highlight the possibilities that are now available to a technician when you can view more than four measurements simultaneously. Of course, an 8-channel scope brings its own challenges, but when multiple measurements need to be made, it saves essential time. Being able to see the interaction between sensors and actuators can really help technicians understand how a system works.

For more information on Pico and its 8www.rdr.link/VJ002 channel scope,

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BUSINESS & LEGISLATION

A POCKET-SIZED solution Freeway Fleet Systems is now providing smartphone-control of fleet management with a new app that gives managers a real-time insight into essential fleet information and tasks. The fleet-in-your-pocket app is designed for planning and assigning work, as well as authorising purchases relating to fleet maintenance and compliance.

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leet-in-your pocket provides a single smartphone interface for everything from Earned Recognition KPIs and Staff Overview to Defect Recording, TimeSheet entry, Parts Purchasing, Authorising, Receipting and Issuing. The development puts all aspects of cost-control and compliance into a mobile device application to improve management and efficiency, reducing bottlenecks to speed workflows.

As part of the revolution in mobile working, fleet-in-your-pocket can benefit managers, stores staff, drivers, engineering staff and accounts with immediate access to more accurate information with less timeconsuming processing.

Freeway has taken advantage of the latest cloud and mobile technology to bring tasks previously only undertaken on central office systems onto the mobile devices with an easy-to-use interface. Managers can view key statistics on scheduling, spend, and Earned Recognition compliance, live and from the workshop floor. The app also provides an oversight of what each staff member in the workshop is doing at that exact point in time.

Patrick Tandy, Managing Director of

Freeway describes the fleet-in-your-pocket digital revolution as a ‘decade long, overnight success’. “We have been working with our customers over many years to improve levels of automation, and fleet-inyour pocket is a culmination of the move to mobile working that has come into its own over the course of the last year,” he explains.

The reason for the sudden increase in demand is thought to be down to a number of factors. Firstly, the DVSA’s Earned Recognition Scheme officially sanctions digital record keeping, and it is clear that this will be the way forward for compliance in the future. Secondly, tablets and smartphones are increasingly replacing costly industrial equipment with mobile devices that are much less costly and user-familiar, and thirdly, there is greater user awareness and acceptance of digital technology.

“In addition to the acceptance of mobile working, the interfaces we are providing and the technology we are using has also reached a tipping point where the number of integrated functions and their ease of use make it much easier to make the switch from paper," adds Tandy.

Providing instant access to key management data held on Freeway’s fleet management system, the app was first developed to allow managers to sign-off on purchased orders, where management intervention is required to authorise expenditure. Sign-off requests are automatically sent to the appropriate manager based on the order value, and this can be approved or rejected by the manager using a smartphone.

Commenting on this, Eddie Street of London bus operator Tower Transit said, “For managers, this is a brilliant addition to Freeway. I don't need to be at my desk logged onto my PC to deal with things such as PO authorisations. I can basically keep my finger on the pulse wherever I happen to be, and know that I am not holding up any work.”

Elsewhere, store managers can carry out stock-checks and part requests, and part issues can also be done using a smartphone.

Engineers can also use mobile devices to record defects, as well as rectification work capturing photographs as they work backed up with immediate access to the

And the award goes to…

Freeway won a high-profile Innovation Challenge for their fleet-in-the-pocket smartphone app. The company was presented with the Gold Award at the UK’s National Exhibition Centre (NEC) in Birmingham. The Challenge gave technology suppliers a new platform to showcase their efforts in driving the industry forward and was launched at Coach & Bus UK. The app was shortlisted after a public vote by visitors to the show, which attracted almost 6,000 professionals from the bus and coach industry. Finalists delivered a 90 second pitch to a panel of

vehicle's entire history of defects, labour and parts issues. Drivers can also carry out first-use checks as well as ad-hoc breakdown and defect reports with instant communication to engineering.

industry judges led by Graham Vidler, CEO of the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT). Accepting the Gold award, Patrick Tandy, MD of Freeway Fleet Systems, said, “Winning this award is testament to the team that’s behind the product, the quality and the effort that’s gone into making it possible. All the ideas come from our customers, and we have the privilege of being able to take their ideas and put them into action.”

For more information on this new solution from Freeway Fleet Systems, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ003

HEALTH & SAFETY

A helping hand

During tough times, it’s always helpful to know that somebody has your best interests at heart. Automotive industry charity, Ben, has a critical response service which provides support to employers and their employees in times of crisis.

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his free service sees Ben working closely with automotive industry businesses to provide appropriate, and often immediate, care for employees who have been subjected to unexpected or traumatic incidents. The service is open to those who have been affected by issues such as serious injury, physical or psychological threat, death of a customer or colleague, and other sudden and unforeseen incidents.

The scheme has been in development since 2017 as an onsite trauma service, the concept being initiated by automotive Ben4Business partners following a traumatic incident that affected their employees.

Initially targeting individuals, the service has since expanded to include employers, as Ben’s Health & Wellbeing Director, Rachel Clift, explains: “We have since developed this service by working with our Ben4Business partners, and have developed this service around their needs.”

As part of the service, Ben provides a range of support for those dealing with mental health issues, from further medical

referrals, to one-to-one meetings with mental health professionals. Specialist information and self-help resources are also provided as part of the scheme.

Since the conception of the initiative, Ben has seen a rise in employers requesting mental aftercare and support following critical incidents, and hopes that this service will see the charity supporting more individuals in need. Last year alone saw Ben’s critical response service supporting over 140 industry employees, with the most common use of the service being requested by employers and employees who have been affected by a colleague taking their own life. According to the Mental Health Foundation, men are around three times more likely to commit suicide than women, and account for three quarters of suicides in 2018. With the automotive industry having a particularly high proportion of male employees and a greater exposure to physical injury, Rachel acknowledges that automotive employees are therefore exposed to a particularly high risk of developing mental health issues.

So far, the service has proved to be a great source of support for employees of a number of companies, including Lookers.

Two Lookers staff were witnesses to the Manchester Arena bombings in May 2017, and whilst they were not physically harmed, the event proved to be deeply traumatic for many, like them, who were present. Ben provided support to the two who were affected through face-to-face meetings. Sarah Williams, Head of HR Operations at Lookers, also details that Ben also provided support through “home visits and phone counselling” for those who were unable to attend work. The service, described as “very responsive” by Sarah, is not limited to aiding those subjected to large scale traumatic events. Michael McCulloch, General Sales Manager at TrustFord Ballymena, explains that the scheme has had a “profoundly positive” effect on those who are not only dealing with recent events, but “their own individual tumultuous lives, too.”

If you or a fellow employee have been affected by any of the issues mentioned in this article and would like to seek support, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ004

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 17

HEALTH & SAFETY

Be seen and be safe With lighting being an important component within any commercial vehicle – be it either inside the vehicle or on its exterior – it is essential that the lighting products used are up to scratch. In order to stay within the set regulations, fleet managers must be aware of what is safe and what is not.

Is your warning lighting R65 compliant?

‘ECCO Standard’ goes above and beyond

ECE R65 (R65) is a United Nations regulation. It sets the standard for beacons, light bars and other vehicle warning lamps. The regulation has been designed to ensure that certain core standards governing light output, light dispersion, colour and flash frequency are being met.

The R65 regulation also measures cold start, water ingress and heat resistance.

In Europe, all work vehicles must be fitted with R65 approved products, while in the UK, Chapter Eight of the Traffic Signs Manual states: “Roof-mounted flashing amber warning beacons must comply with the requirements of the Road Vehicle Lighting Regulations and should also comply with the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE) Regulation 65 on Special Warning Lamps”. The Manual also states that vehicles need to be equipped with either a roof-mounted, flashing amber warning lightbar, or two independent, roof-mounted flashing amber beacons which are visible through 360˚.

The ‘ECCO Standard’ subjects products to not only the industry standard test specification regime, but extended or further in-house testing to determine if the product is fit for purpose in most, if not all of the applications. Products are, therefore, designed and manufactured to meet harsh environmental conditions wherever they are installed.

18 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

Why choose LED technology?

■ LEDs consume less energy and have a

longer life.

■ Incandescent bulbs get hot and

therefore energy is lost in the form of heat rather than light. LEDs run much cooler and are up to 80% more efficient.

■ LED chips are very small and thin.

They don't need big glass bulbs, so can be mounted in very low profile and narrow containers.

■ Durable – LEDs do not have filaments, so they can withstand heavy vibrations.

They also resist shock and external impacts.

Lighting the way These ECCO products have passed the test of the stringent regulations set by the UNECE and the company itself, but what makes them so special?

Lightbars

ECCO’s 12+ series LED lightbars are versatile and powerful warning devices suitable for a wide range of vehicle types and duties. The 12+ series LED lightbars support three kinds of LED modules, including single and dual colour warning, stop-tail-indicator, and alley/work light. A choice of clear and amber lenses increases the customisation options even further.

The 13 Series R65 LED Lightbar has been designed with the customer in mind. It is suitable for a variety of vehicles, including large vehicles, recovery trucks, fleets and highway maintenance. Robust and compact popular housing designs are available in four standard length options.

Warning lighting Reflex 5550 Series R65 LED microbars provide a super-compact yet powerful warning solution that offers the flexibility of either permanent or magnetic mounting. Featuring 12-24 VDC operation, the Reflex microbar uses high intensity LEDs to maximise light output.

suitable for applications where the UK lighting regulation Chapter Eight is a requirement.

The A520 Series is a high intensity LED Minibar available in 1 Bolt or Magnetic mounting options. With a choice of single or double flash, this minibar is suitable for a wide range of applications.

Directional LEDs Directional LEDs offer multiple flash patterns, and various mounting options, providing superior warning capability. Many come in single, split and dual-colour options, doubling the warning with half the hassle.

The 400 Series LED beacons utilise the latest LED technology and feature 12 powerful LEDs arranged to produce a 360° flash pattern, with a flash rate of 125FPM for maximum visibility. These are particularly

The B200 R65 3 bolt fixing beacon features high intensity LEDs, and is a popular choice for fitting in pairs onto leading truck lighting bars.

The SecuriLED II encompasses enhanced performance, features and styling. Suited to larger vehicles and situations where a ‘BIG’ warning signal is desired, such as Trucks, Road Sweepers and Agricultural

Trailers, the SecuriLED II is fully sealed against moisture and dust ingress.

The ED3701 Series directional LEDs are bright and versatile warning lights that are suited to a wide variety of applications. Their ultra-low profile makes them easy to install virtually anywhere on a vehicle.

Worklamps The EW2461 worklamp features a high intensity 600 lumen flood beam and three operating modes (100% intensity, 30% intensity & SOS flashing). The lamp’s long-life, lithium rechargeable battery allows the worklamp to be operated for three to four hours before recharging is required.

For more information about ECCO or any of the products featured in this article, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ005

SPECIAL REPORT

Bringing batteries to you

B

BL Batteries is a multi-branch, UKbased battery business that is increasingly focused on the development, introduction and distribution of new and improved battery technologies to the market. Founded in 1972 and proud to remain one of the few fully independent family enterprises in the aftermarket, BBL Batteries, formally Bristol Batteries, understands that its success can be explained through a number of core competencies. These include experience, expertise and, perhaps above all, customer service. The company’s approach to this often overlooked area of business stems from the team’s desire to solve problems and advise on solutions that work for their customers. Battery technology has changed significantly in the last 10 years, so having the expertise to answer queries about these new technologies makes the difference when it comes to attracting customers.

The original batteries on stop-start vehicles have lasted much longer than

20 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

As BBL Batteries closes in on 50 years, it remains a leading UK battery specialist, embracing the latest technology and helping frontline aftermarket businesses.

CVW finds out more. anticipated due to a number of reasons, but first and foremost is because drivers have the ability to disengage the stop-start function by means of a button, essentially rendering the AGM or EFB battery overengineered for a van that now runs as a vehicle that does not have stop-start technology. With an increase in stop-start LCVs entering workshops with their original batteries ‘finally’ failing, now is the time to understand and embrace the new technologies, as the opportunities in doing so are sizeable.

With the introduction of stop-start vehicles came the requirement for aftermarket manufacturing and wholesale parts businesses to stock, sell and, more importantly, understand the impact of the new technology on today’s market and indeed their customers. Anticipating the impact on drivers is key to providing the very best advice and service workshops.

The BBL Batteries team consists of stopstart experts, who fully understand the impact that the technology is having on all areas of the battery market. Rather than looking at these changes as a problem, the company can help the aftermarket make the most of recent developments.

Not only does BBL offer great advice and training to its customers, it also stocks quality AGM and EFB batteries from the some of the world’s leading manufacturers, and can advise businesses on how to become the ‘go to’ stop-start experts.

Graham Bultitude, Founder and Managing Director of BBL Batteries, explained, “BBL Batteries was founded with the express aim of supplying premium quality batteries, and associated products, across a wide range of sectors.

Close to 50 years later, we are still going from strength to strength, which I put down to the fact that we have always stuck to our core principles; premium quality products, superior customer service and providing fantastic value. The BBL team holds many years’ experience and takes great pride in working with customers to solve their ‘power’ issues. We are increasingly focussed on the development, introduction and distribution of new and improved battery technologies to the market, so as a truly independent battery business, we can always offer the very best solution to our customers.”

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ006

SPECIAL REPORT

Testing, testing CVW Consulting Editor Sharon Clancy takes a closer look at the Annual Test statistics from DVSA.

O

ver three-quarters of a million trucks, trailers and PSVs are required to take the annual roadworthiness test. The average first time pass rate is 89%, and while this may seem reassuringly high, DVSA points out that many of the reasons that vehicles fail could and should have been picked up as part of the driver’s daily walk-round check, or before the vehicle or trailer was presented for testing.

Annual test pass/failure rates will have an impact on Operator Compliance Risk Scores, used by DVSA to identify fleets for closer monitoring both at operating centres and for roadside checks.

í˘˛ TOP 10 FAILURE DEFECTS: HGVS

Lamps

3.50%

Headlamp Aim

3.40%

Brake System Components

2.90%

Service Brake Performance

2.20%

Steering Mechanism

1.80%

Suspension

1.50%

Parking Brake Performance

1.00%

Speedo/Tacho

0.80%

Tyre Condition

0.80%

Exhaust Emission

0.80%

Wiring

-

Hazard Warning

-

í˘ą HGV FAILURE RATES TOTAL TESTS

PASS AFTER RETIFICATION

FAILS

INITIAL FAILURE RATE

FINAL FAILURE RATE

RETESTS

RETEST FAILURE RATE

HGV

432,778

20,557

44,273

15.00%

10.20%

42,834

4.90%

PSV

77,766

3,220

6,447

12.40%

8.30%

6,246

4.50%

Trailer

254,439

6,666

22,161

11.50%

8.70%

22,339

10.60%

DVSA now publishes the Annual Test statistics on a quarterly basis: here, we take a look at the whole year for 2018-19.

The first glance indicates that some operators may still be using the annual test to identify defects on vehicles and trailers. (Chart 1) For example, the initial failure rate for HGVs was 44,273 (15%), but after retesting, 42,834 trucks were retested, of which only 4.3% failed. The failure rate for trailers fell from 11.5 (6,447) to 8.7%, with a similar story for PSVs; down from 11.5 to 8.7%.

(Charts 2, 3, 4) Half of the top 10 failures are on just two vehicle systems: lights and brakes, which pose a potentially serious danger to other road users. Faulty lamps are responsible for 3.5% of HGV test failures, closely followed by headlamp aim, at 3.4%.

Some 6% of HGVs fail the annual roadworthiness test because of braking system faults. (Chart 2) Brake system components account for 2.9% of failures, service brake performance for 2.2%, and parking brake performance for 1%.

í˘ł TOP 10 FAILURE DEFECTS: TRAILERS

Service Brake Performance

5.00%

Parking Brake Performance

3.20%

Lamps

2.00%

Brake System Components

1.90%

Suspension

1.30%

Reflectors & Rear Markings

0.70%

Spray suppression,

0.60%

wings/wheel arches Tyres (Condition)

0.50%

Bumpers/Sideguards

0.30%

Service Brake Operation

0.20%

Steering defects account for 1.8%, steering and suspension 1.5%. Tyres and emissions account for 0.8% of failures.

Trailers (Chart 3) are presented in poorer condition, with 5% failing on service brake performance, 3.2% on parking brake, and 1.9% on system components.

Guides and videos There’s no shortage of advice and tips from DVSA on passing the annual test and maintaining roadworthiness throughout the year.

A new video to show what a driver walk round check should include www.rdr.link/VJ008

22 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

HGV inspection manual www.rdr.link/VJ009

PSV inspection manual www.rdr.link/VJ010

í˘´ TOP 10 FAILURE DEFECTS: PSV

Headlamp Aim

2.40%

Lamps

2.30%

Brake System Components

2.10%

Body (Interior)

1.80%

Doors and Emergency Exits

1.60%

Seat Belts

1.30%

Suspension

1.20%

Service Brake Performance

1.00%

Steering Mechanism

1.00%

Parking Brake

1.00%

For PSVs, lamps and lights top the defect list, with brake system components third at 2.1% (Chart 4).

Age and fleet size As you might expect, older vehicles are more likely to fail the test, with failure rates rising significantly once vehicles reach seven years old, and again at 10 years old.

For the year 2018-19, HGVs aged 12 years or more had a 31.7% failure rate, trailers 18.8%, and 20.5% for PSVs. Fleet size is also a factor. If you’re running just one vehicle, then the failure rate is 22.7% for HGVs and 28.9% for PSVs, falling to 5.1% and 3.3% for fleets of 101 or more.

Tips on passing the brake test www.rdr.link/VJ011

í˘ľ FAILURE RATE BY AGE HGV

TRAILER PSV

Up to 1 yr

3.60%

3.60%

2.50%

2 years

4.20%

4.70%

4.30%

3 years

5.00%

5.40%

4.70%

4 years

6.20%

6.50%

5.40%

5 years

8.60%

7.50%

6.30%

6 years

9.30%

8.60%

7.60%

7 years

11.80%

10.10%

9.70%

8 years

14.40%

11.00%

8.00%

9 years

16.60%

12.10%

11.30%

10 years

18.30%

13.70%

9.90%

11 years

20.30%

14.80%

13.90%

12+ years

31.70%

18.80%

20.50%

HGV operators of fleets ranging from 11 to 50 vehicles have a much better pass rate than PSV operators, with an average failure rate of just under 8% for HGVs and trailers, compared with 14% for PSVs. DVSA points out that a daily walkaround check is legally required, and that each fleet must have a designated transport manager, regardless of size.

For more information online, www.rdr.link/VJ007

Tips on headlamp aim www.rdr.link/VJ012

ŠВитаНий ХОва/AdobeStock

“As you might expect, older vehicles are more likely to fail the test, with failure rates rising significantly once vehicles reach seven years old, and again at 10 years old.â€? í˘ś FAILURE RATE BY FLEET SIZE

HGV

PSV

1

22.70%

28.90%

2-5

18.20%

30.50%

6-10

13.60%

26.50%

11-20

10.40%

19.50%

21-30

8.70%

15.50%

31-40

7.50%

13.30%

41-50

7.00%

13.00%

51-100

6.10%

6.90%

101+

5.10%

3.30%

Guide to maintaining roadworthiness www.rdr.link/VJ013

A guide to defect categorisation www.rdr.link/VJ014

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 23

SPECIAL REPORT

As easy as

EBS

EBS Aftermarket Group has opened a new ‘state-of-the-art’ remanufacturing and technical facility in Manchester Trafford Park. CVW reports.

E

uropean Braking Systems, a Manchester-based wholesale distribution centre for commercial vehicle components, has opened its new ‘state-of-the-art’ remanufacturing and technical centre in Trafford Park.

EBS originally opened its doors in 2000, led by group CEO Mark Luby, specialising in air brake systems for the commercial vehicle industry. Since then, EBS has grown the product portfolio to over 33 product groups, covering some 22,000 references with a multi-million pound turnover. EBS distributes throughout the UK and Ireland, exporting to over 63 countries worldwide, and has been recognised in the top 100 fastest growing SME’s for overseas sales.

The new 5,000m2 facility in Manchester boasts the latest technology in remanufacturing, testing equipment and production processes. The centre remanufactures commercial vehicle brake calipers, compressors and air valves.

After substantial investments by the EBS Aftermarket Group into the new facility, which has helped the business increase production by 70%, Sir Graham Brady, Conservative MP for Altrincham and Sale West, officially opened the new site in early October. He toured the new facility and met with management, production staff and representatives of the SMMT. Before officially opening the remanufacturing centre, Sir Graham Brady told the story of how he had originally met CEO Mark Luby

at Altrincham Grammar School, though their career paths had subsequently taken them in different directions. Sir Brady commented, “Here is Mark employing people in the region and having a very successful business. It is good to see a growing business and how remanufacturing brings benefits to the environment by reducing its CO2, and this is welcomed.”

EBS are members of the SMMT and APRA and employs over 80 staff at the Manchester facility with further group companies based in Essex, Dublin and Nijmegen, Netherlands.

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ015

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 25

DIAGNOSTICS

Case study: Volvo truck transmission calibration

The Eclipse Jaltest package is a multi-brand diagnostics solution for many of the commercial vehicle fleet operators in the UK. Here, the company describes how to undertake a transmission calibration on Volvo articulated trucks of D and E series.

T

he Volvo articulated trucks of D and E series all use the Volvo ‘Powertronic’ automatic transmission system. This needs to be occasionally recalibrated for a number of reasons, which can include either component wear, or replacement of damaged components. Recalibration is then necessary to ensure that the smooth gear shift is re-established, in order to maintain the ride comfort and performance that is expected.

This calibration process requires advanced diagnostics from a tool such as Jaltest to be able to adjust and tune the transmission to deliver the usual performance. Given the recalibration alternatives identified above, the following two case studies show the procedure following component replacement or adjustment to compensate for wear.

í˘ą

í˘˛

First Case: After carrying out a repair or replacement of transmission components, the following process is carried out: 1. Carrying out the initial values reset.

With this element of the process, the values stored in the control unit will be deleted prior to beginning the calibration of the vehicle transmission.

í˘ł

2. Carrying out the calibration process.

The second phase of the process continues the calibration by utilising Jaltest to set the filling times and pressure parameters of the transmission clutches in the control unit (Figures 2 & 3), using these values for the ongoing vehicle operation.

26 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

Using Jaltest to carry out necessary adjustment of the transmission system can solve operational issues or vibrations of the transmission caused by the component wear.

To carry out this process when no transmission component has been replaced, it is only necessary for the calibration process to be carried out. This process needs

to only modify the filling times and pressures of the transmission clutches in the control unit, rather than the more involved process that was required when a component was replaced.

The transmission system of the Volvo units is one of their most fundamental and complex features, and carrying out timely repairs and maintenance will massively increase the lifetime of the vehicles whilst also reducing overall operational running costs, including those of future maintenance.

In fact, carrying out this calibration is one of the most important elements of an official service. Ignoring the process or wrongly calibrating the system could create a repair cost that would easily exceed the cost of the Eclipse Jaltest diagnostic product.

This high-end functionality across a multitude of brands has resulted in the Eclipse Jaltest product being utilised by a large number of main dealers who previously were limited by the OE manufacturer’s tools, but now have the opportunity to extend the service and repair facilities to include more vehicles and customer fleets.

These dealers, along with all other Eclipse users, also benefit by the business being developed around the core philosophy of Vehicle Related Customer Support. This service is available from when the system is first purchased, and throughout its life.

For more information,

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ016

DIAGNOSTICS

Lending your support

O

ur research has identified that one in three commercial vehicles arriving in the workshop has a battery problem, a threat that could cause technicians problems when undertaking diagnostic work on a commercial vehicle.

Diagnostic activity requires the ignition to be switched on without the engine running.

This means that during programming, the vehicle's systems are operated solely from the power of the battery.

Therefore, fault-finding with diagnostic tools should only be carried out whilst the vehicle is connected to an adequate and stable source of power. Battery support helps to avoid inaccurate data being sent back to the diagnostic device. Fluctuations in battery voltage – which can easily occur if the battery is not adequately supported – can also cause additional codes to appear.

Battery support is also important in terms of saving technician time, insuring against costly programming failures and preventing potentially costly damage to the ECU. Indeed, we are finding that in more and more cases, the vehicle will only open up and communicate with diagnostic equipment if it

can see a minimum voltage across its system. In many cases, it’s a specific voltage level, too – something that can only be achieved through battery support.

My advice is that any diagnostic work undertaken should be done so with battery support. It is really important that you use the right equipment to maintain battery performance. Slave batteries and boost packs can be unreliable, and may struggle to cope with sudden increases in current demand. Standard battery chargers are not recommended either, as they can increase battery voltage beyond normal operating

“Battery support is also important in terms of saving technician time, insuring against costly programming failures and preventing potentially costly damage to the ECU.”

Getting to the root of a commercial vehicle problem as quickly as possible is essential – after all, the quicker you can diagnose and fix the problem, the quicker you can get the vehicle back on the road! Here, Tony Zeal, Training Manager at CTEK, explains the importance of battery support during vehicle diagnostic work.

levels, affecting diagnostic procedures and potentially damaging sensitive equipment.

The MXTS 40 from CTEK provides a stable voltage and up to 40A (12V mode) and 20A (24V mode) of fully regulated power to prevent loss of charge as well as damage to the battery, so it’s ideal for a wide range of commercial vehicles with average power consumption. If even more power is required, the MXTS 70 provides up to 70A of battery support (35A) in 24V. This unit provides the ability to cover all vehicles, including high specification vehicles with large flash programming demands.

Both CTEK units offer complete flexibility for the user, with selectable voltages to meet the precise needs of each individual vehicle.

So, in summary, a stable battery voltage protects against battery failure during the diagnostic process, and ensures that the technician can quickly, and without interruption, generate diagnostic results that facilitate an accurate, efficient and safe repair.

To read more about CTEK’s battery range, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ017

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 29

DIAGNOSTICS

PLUG and PLAY Spillard Safety Systems has claimed that, due to its latest innovation, fitting the latest mobile safety equipment and camera systems has never been easier. CVW takes a closer look.

T

he company has invested heavily in designing a new ‘plug and play’ loom that halves the time it takes to install its ‘Spillard Live’, side scan and ‘left turn alarm’ technology.

Engineers no longer have to run complex cabling and find connections to establish a live feed; instead, they simply run the cables along the chassis and plug the terminal into the ODBC reader so that it reads the vehicle’s CAN bus.

This process means that a standard fitting can now take just four hours instead of eight, and ensures that Spillard can meet the growing demand for its accident prevention systems.

Craig Spillard, Finance Director at Spillard Safety Systems, commented, “The plug and play system has de-skilled the installation, and means that retrofitting your entire fleet of vehicles with our solutions has never been easier.

“Our engineers can now complete two jobs per day, which is great for us in terms of meeting increases in orders and, importantly for the customer, it means we have reduced the time their vehicle or piece of equipment is out of action.

“We took feedback from engineers about the issues they face on site and, tapping into the expertise of technical sub-contract partners, we have come up with a solution that overcomes these hurdles and still delivers great performing technology. It’s a

30 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

“Compliance and accountability are becoming more important for companies in the transport arena.” win-win situation. In some instances, workshops could fit Spillard systems without the need to involve our engineers.”

The latest innovation marks a successful 2019 for the Wolverhampton-based company, which has seen sales rise by over £1m to £6.1m for the financial year.

Compliance and accountability are becoming more important for companies in the transport arena, and instantly being able to see what a driver has done or is doing is making that task a lot easier.

Spillard Live is an online platform that

meets this requirement by using an awardwinning Internet of Things (IoT) platform that can track a vehicle in real-time with live video and analytics.

It captures, processes and learns from multiple sources, and has been designed to be compatible with any device capable of transmitting datasets.

The data received is analysed using complex algorithms to improve driver behaviour, so much so that audible alerts can be sent to notify employees that their actions are being recorded – a feature that has been proven to have a positive effect on their behaviour.

Craig continued, “This has a huge benefit in terms of reviewing driver performance, reducing risks and accidents and, importantly, allowing companies to prove that their drivers are not at fault in incidents. They can do this in real time as well as being able to view historical footage.

“With over 5,00 systems connected to the platform already, we can clearly see how big the demand is. Now, the focus will be on evolving the functionality and adding more features to the mix.”

He concluded, “The plug and play loom is also proving popular, with 60 systems now installed for customers, including Fowler Welch and DHL.” For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ018

TYRES & WHEELS

Don’t tire out your tyres CVW sits down with Ricky Mitchell, Sales Manager Fleet UK at Apollo Vredestein, to discuss best practice tips for commercial vehicle tyre replacement.

Q

When do you believe is the best time to change tyres on a van?

Michelin suggests that fleets shouldn’t change tyres early (for example, at 3mm), claiming that this doesn’t bring any advantage.

Ricky Mitchell (RM): The NTDA (National Tyre Distributors Association), drawing on results of braking tests, has advised that there is a sufficiently compelling argument for motorists to change their tyres at 3mm, and called for a review of the legal minimum tread depth that was introduced in 1992. In any event, the UK’s minimum legal tread depth (1.6mm) has proven, in one of the latest surveys, to be ineffective in preventing running illegal tyres, as people are tempted to go to the very edge of what is permissible to reduce costs. Perhaps a higher minimum of, say, 2mm may help to prevent potentially dangerous conditions, and that ought to be coupled with good tyre husbandry: selecting the right tyre for the job, consistent maintenance protocols, bespoke tyre pressure settings, etc.

Q

Does carrying heavy loads impact on the life and durability of tyres?

RM: Generally yes; simple physics means that the tyre will be under more stress, and the tread rubber in contact with the road

surface will be undergoing higher forces.

However, the effects can be minimised by choosing the right tyre for the job and making sure that heavy loads are compensated for by an increase in tyre pressure to correctly accommodate the additional weight. If the tyre pressure is insufficient to carry the load, not only will the wear rate increase, but also the vehicle’s fuel consumption and stopping distance will increase, and stability/safety may be compromised.

The effects of overloading and under-inflation are excessive heat build-up within the tyre sidewall and shoulder area, which significantly increases the likelihood of a sudden rapid deflation, particularly on high-speed motorway journeys.

When under-inflated, the tyre’s contact patch with the road surface is reduced to two smaller areas towards the outer edges of the tread. With the full vehicle load placed on these two areas, the tread wears at a much higher rate, forcing replacement much earlier than would otherwise be needed. By running tyres at just 80% of the recommended pressure, operators can expect tyre life to be reduced to around 75%.

The Vredestein Comtrac range of van tyres is designed to be durable, stable and long-lasting when correctly inflated in

respect to the laden axle weights, and is tested to load capacities that meet or exceed the vehicle’s maximum laden weights.

Q

If van drivers are likely to overload their vans, do you find that they are also likely to neglect other areas of safety, including checking their tyres on a regular basis?

RM: Nobody is suggesting that van drivers willingly or recklessly overload their vehicles. It is more a question of understanding vehicle capabilities and limits, together with a basic knowledge of laden vs un-laden status, tyre pressure, load and speed ratings, etc. Similarly, it is impossible to generalise that one group of vehicle users are more or less likely to check their tyres than another, so we strongly recommend that all drivers regularly check the condition of their tyres for any signs of damage or uneven wear, as well as checking that inflation pressures are correct for the load being carried.

Apollo Vredestein has systems in place to support fleet operators aiming for cost reductions without compromising on safety; additional safety training includes all areas of tyre safety management.

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ019

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 33

TYRES & WHEELS

Giving winter the cold shoulder The cold weather brings with it an array of challenges. Tyre manufacturer Hankook has been busy making preparations for the imminent wintry weather with its range of winter tyres for commercial vehicles.

T

he latest model of the i*cept series, the Winter i*cept LV for vans and transporters, is not only especially suited for winter, but also leads to increased mileage, and therefore good economy.

Hankook’s engineers achieved an increase in mileage of about 10% compared to conventional models, including a wider tread design. An optimised groove structure on the shoulder block prevents irregular wear and contributes to increased mileage and economy, which is of particular interest to fleet managers. The Hankook Winter i*cept LV will initially be introduced in a total of 12 sizes, from 15-17”, with tread widths from 175-235mm and aspect ratios from 75-60 in the R and T speed indices.

Hankook is also expanding its portfolio for the van and light truck category with the

34 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

new Vantra ST AS 2, an all-season tyre with the 3PMSF symbol. The new Vantra ST AS 2 is particularly strong during the cold season on road surfaces that are common in urban areas. With the tyre’s specially developed ‘Ice-Philic-Technology’, it ensures increased grip, even at lower temperatures. This innovation in Hankook’s all-season tyre

“A specially developed compound mixture is used in the SmartControl range, which makes the tyre particularly resistant to the cold.”

line-up is now available in 12 sizes from 14-16” with tread widths of 185235mm and aspect ratios of 80 - 60 in the speed indices Q, R, T and H. Further sizes are currently under development.

Particularly as the winter gets under way, drivers and fleets must be equipped to face the toughest conditions throughout winter in order to avoid expensive downtimes and arrive safely at their destination. Hankook is well prepared, and its winter solution for truck and bus, SmartControl optimum, offers snow traction and safety, as well as maintaining a high mileage and braking performance. The range includes the AW02, which is suitable for use on all axles, and the DW07 for the drive axle.

Šyanikap/AdobeStock

A specially developed compound mixture is used in the SmartControl range, which makes the tyre particularly resistant to the cold, allowing for a high braking performance even at very low temperatures.

This, combined with the special structure in the composition of the SmartControl line, means that belt movements can be reduced to a minimum, resulting in overall coolerrunning tyre temperatures and therefore greater fuel-efficiency. In addition, Hankook claims that its SCCT (Stiffness

Control Contour Theory) technology guarantees an optimised contour for good handling, and the advanced bead wire tread contributes to good retreadability.

Furthermore, the tread of the SmartControl DW07 has been designed with a particularly wide tread in comparison to its predecessor, which increases the contact area between the tyre and the surface, improving grip and handling.

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ020

TYRES & WHEELS

Since Continental Tyres acquired the Bandvulc tyre retreading business over three years ago, many steps have been taken to ensure utmost efficiency across the site. CVW took a visit to the facility in Ivybridge, Devon, to see how fitting retreaded tyres can be a positive move from a financial and environmental perspective.

Retreaded steps

T

he facilities at Ivybridge are used to take worn out tyre casings and turn them into premium quality retreads, which can then be reused in the haulage industry. Why does Bandvulc undertake this process? The end goal is to keep fleet operator costs down and reduce the negative environmental impacts associated with a tyre manufacturing. Every time you retread a truck tyre, 68L of oil and 30kg of rubber are saved, and 60kg less of CO2 is released into the atmosphere.

80% of the tyre can be reused, so you’re saving the rubber and casing. In terms of the European-manufactured tyres available, 95% can be retreaded. This creates up to 5,500 jobs in the supply chain within the UK, including all support roles.

Recycling culture

A second chance As many operators will be aware, there has been an ongoing debate in the industry over the past four to five years about cheap, imported tyres versus a retread.

When bringing in single-life tyres, particularly from overseas, a fleet manager might benefit from a low upfront cost, but choosing the retreaded alternative provides better value for money in the long term. There are also other benefits associated with a retreaded tyre that might otherwise be lost; a reduction in end-of-life waste (leading to a healthier environmental footprint), and a longer lasting product, which is rebuilt on the same standards as a new tyre.

36 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

The retread market has declined by over 30% in the last 10 years due to cheap imports. That is now turning back around again due to import tariffs. Low-cost tyres from abroad aren’t always suitable for retreading. It’s estimated that of all the imports, over 500,000 are coming from China, and these are usually not reusable. This means that, for some vehicles, you end up with four or more useless casings, whereas, if you buy ‘premium’ new tyres in the first instance, they can begin their life over again.

As well as the products being less detrimental to the environment, it's important that the facilities in which they are produced reflect this. Bandvulc has been focused on efficiency for a long time, which was one of the things that resonated with Continental prior to taking over the business; one of many similarities in business cultures. Energy is always monitored and automated around the site, showing what is being generated and used at any given time. The culture is to close things down and turn things off when not in use – all the way down to automated lights that come on when approached, and go off when you leave. When the factory shuts down at 6am on a Saturday morning, management can ensure everything is switched off.

When machinery is up and running, a steam recovery system is implemented within the manufacturing process, so energy is reused. In addition, solar energy investments have been made.

The roofs of many of the buildings – offices, the factory and the warehouse – have solar panels installed, making best use of natural resources. Insulation is installed, mainly to keep the heat around the ‘ovens’ that are used to press tyres. Lastly, as you might expect, all office waste is recycled.

Ivybridge facility

During the visit to the Ivybridge site, CVW was given a full tour.

First up was the rubber mixing plant – supposedly the only retreading mixing plant in the UK. Continental buys in its own rubber, mixing it into specific compounds. If it has a customer looking for low fuel consumption, a compound can be mixed for low rolling resistance. If it has a customer looking for duration and damage resistance, it can mix a stronger compound. Running individual tests specific to the UK market is something the company claims that others can’t do.

In the warehouse, casings are received and inspected. Then, the acceptable tyres are prepared for retreading – here, the tyres are buffed and the dust is removed. This ‘dust’ is then reused for new tyre production elsewhere in Europe. Next, the tyre is built, remoulded, pressure tested and then finished, before being sent straight from the site to Continental’s redistribution centre in Rugby. Again, to increase efficiency, the return journey is used to bring back the next wave of casings to be retreaded.

There are approximately 22,000 casings stored in the casing yard outside the warehouse at any given time, which would keep the factory going for a month without restocking should it be needed.

Health and safety is also important on such a site, and it is immediately obvious how seriously this is taken at the facility. Employees are colour coded in the factory. Red is trainee, green is first aid, blue is supervisor and black is permanent employee. This makes it easy to identify individuals in a loud and busy environment. There are marked walkways around the site. All chemical solvents which posed a risk previously have now been replaced with water-based solutions.

The site is efficient and economic – this is reflected in the repurposed products that are offered to the industry.

For more information online,

www.rdr.link/VJ021

TYRES & WHEELS

Proving yourself

CVW was present at Truck World 2019 to see Bridgestone’s commercial tyre and mobility solutions come to life. Held at the Millbrook Proving Ground, the company demonstrated how its products are evolving to meet the demands of an increasingly challenging industry.

38 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

U

pon arrival at Millbrook, we were driven from one side of the site to another, allowing us to fully comprehend the magnitude of the facility; Bridgestone certainly meant business by demonstrating there.

First up was a video of Bridgestone’s CEO, Paolo Ferrari, who made two points overtly clear: that the company’s business is transforming, and that the world of commercial vehicle tyre and mobility solutions is changing faster than ever before, leading to what Paolo described as a “rapid evolution” of the company.

Leading the day’s presentations was Greg Ward, Bridgestone’s Commercial Sales Director for the UK and Ireland, who wanted to assure fleet owners that the company’s priority was these fleets. Greg insisted that the focus was on delivering “maximum convenience, sustainability and efficiency” to fleet owners, and that the overarching aims of the company were to lower the total cost of ownership (TCO), streamline operations and maximise productivity.

Following a larger insight into Bridgestone’s commercial vehicle tyre offering, Greg introduced the two highlights of what was to come; the Duravis R002 and the Ecopia H002. Greg labelled the former

as an “important product that offers 45% added wear life, a reduced cost per-km of 15%, and optimised fuel efficiency”, amongst other things.

Millbrook seemed to be an apt venue for what was a showcase in the capabilities of commercial vehicle tyres. Greg insisted that the purpose of the demonstration at Millbrook was to be able to “prove the quality of our products, rather than to simply present in front of you”. From that, we went outside to one of the facility’s many testing tracks.

Here, we were met by Chris Buchanan, Bridgestone’s National Fleet Manager, who gave us an insight into the Ecopia H002. He spoke about how the tyre was the only one on the market with an A-A-A combination in steer, drive and trailer, and noted that the most significant difference between the tyre and its predecessor, the Ecopia H001, was the rolling resistance.

To prove this step up, we were shown a live demonstration; the coast down test. The test’s objective was to compare the rolling resistance of two identical vehicles with the same fuel load; the only differences being the drivers and the tyres. When compared with an old generation set of Bridgestone tyres, the Ecopia H002 was able to continue

rolling when coasting for a far greater distance than its competitor; one of the drivers kindly pointed out that this distance was around 120 metres. Chris highlighted that because of this rolling resistance, these A-rated tyres were capable of saving fleet managers up to nearly £7,000 per year, per truck, based on an average of 200,000km travelled.

Up next was Neil Collison, Bridgestone’s National Fleet Executive, to discuss the swanky new Duravis R002. Neil took his opportunity to wax lyrical about the benefits of using the tyre, especially in comparison to the older generation R001, whereby it boasted an improved wear performance of 45%.

The Duravis demonstration saw two tests take place in what were rather wet conditions. The first sought to prove that the Duravis R002 had a higher lateral grip than the a competitor’s tyre. As the trucks ‘floored it’ round a tight bend, there was a noticeable difference; the vehicle with the competitor tyre lost traction approximately 10m before the Duravis. Although this was a particularly extreme test, it was necessary

as a means of demonstrating the difference between the two tyres, as dry conditions and a normal bend would not have adequately displayed the disparity between the two tyres. Stepping out of the cab, one of the drivers informed the crowd that “Although the competitor tyre isn’t bad, the Duravis has improved on it”. Chris Buchanan expanded on this improvement, explaining: “The Duravis produces a substantially different fuel consumption compared to its predecessor. There simply wasn’t the technology two or three years ago to do what we’re doing.”

The final demonstration of the day saw the two trucks go head-to-head once again.

However, this time, after turning into a straight at approximately 40mph and reaching the ‘finish line’, they would brake as hard as possible. This time, there was a difference that even an untrained eye could pick up. The tractor unit with the Duravis tyres was roughly two-three metres closer to the line than its equivalent. The driver’s final comments showed a clear preference for the new model: “There was a noticeable difference in the lack of slip on the truck – it stops a lot quicker.”

For more information on Bridgestone and its new tyre offering, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ022

AXLES & SUSPENSION

Still going

ARMSTRONG Managing a large, national fleet of haulage vehicles with specialism in agricultural and general purpose applications is no easy challenge. For Wm Armstrong, it’s important that the parts specified on all trucks and trailers can meet the rigorous demands of life on the road.

P

rotecting a reputation of over 90 years as a renowned provider of logistics solutions and road transport services requires attention to detail, reliable vehicles and a delight in going the extra mile. Founded in 1927, the Wm Armstrong Group is a family-run business, headquartered in Cumbria in the North West of England. It provides road haulage across the United Kingdom, Ireland and Europe, plus warehousing and distribution services through two depots, one in Carlisle, and the other just outside Glasgow, in Uddingston.

In total, the firm has 100 trucks and 180 trailers, so maintaining and servicing all of these must managed with the utmost efficiency. To help achieve this objective, Armstrong has equipped all 110 of its curtain siders with nine tonne axles made

by Jost. Jost designs and builds robust axle solutions, and is recognised for its ability to provide reliable, high mileage service.

Robbie Fenwick, Fleet Engineer for Armstrong, explained the company’s philosophy: “The general haulage trailers

do extremely high miles, so we want an axle system that can manage hard work with minimal maintenance and repair demands.”

Jost’s axles feature a ‘monocoque’ design, whereby the tube and end sets are joined by a seamless weld. This process reduces weak points which could suffer from stress fractures – it also eliminates the need for fasteners or strengthening joists which add weight. For further simplicity

when placing an order, a modular design of hangar brackets means that the axle systems can be easily mounted onto any trailer that is legal for use on UK roads.

Used widely across the whole European transport industry, Jost’s axle systems are suitable not only for curtain siders, but also for platform semi-trailers, tippers, tankers and bulk distribution. Once installed, the burden of maintenance is minimal, as there are fewer parts to monitor and maintain, and the hubs are specified with heavy-duty wheel bearings as standard.

Robbie continued, “We specify Jost axles for our curtain side trailer because, in our experience, it’s extremely rare that anything will go wrong with them, no matter what they have to endure.”

Jost acquired Mercedes-Benz TrailerAxleSystems in early 2015, at which point it was quickly integrated into the group of brands that include Jost, Edbro, ROCKINGER and TRIDEC. For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ023

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 41

AXLES & SUSPENSION

Getting ahead of the game News reports predict that the UK is heading for the harshest winter in decades, citing ‘ferocious storms crashing in from the Atlantic’.

Before then, it’s essential to undertake axle checks in the workshop.

“W

ith a prolonged season of freeze-thaw conditions potentially in store, standing water can pose a real problem for axles, especially without proper preventive maintenance,� explains Wayne McCluskey, Technical Training Manager at ZF Aftermarket.

Breather system checks ZF axles are sealed against water splash, but they aren’t designed to have fording ability.

Negotiating flooded roads or shallow fords can cause water to enter the axle, most commonly via the axle’s breather system, which is usually a flexible pipe that runs from the axle housing to a dry area of the chassis.

The breather system may be overlooked during routine vehicle servicing – some technicians even admit to being uncertain about its function. Wayne suggests that checking that it is in undamaged condition, is clear of blockages and is correctly routed to a dry area should be considered as an important part of the maintenance schedule.

He also recommends that the following items are regularly inspected: â– Check that the breather hose is present,

undamaged and free of blockages. ZF typically specifies tubing of 6 to 8mm diameter, routed to avoid chafing and ending in a hollow space protected from dirt and spray water.

42 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

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cleaning; these areas are not designed to withstand persistent, intensive water impact.

Steam cleaning or pressure jetting in the vicinity of the breather pipe or sealing areas should be avoided on all axles for this reason.

Towing precautions Breather hose connection at axle casing

â– Ensure that breather hose connections,

such as the elbow adaptor where the hose joins the axle case, are intact and secure (Fig 1).

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Apart from exposure to standing water, it’s important to be aware of other less obvious water entry possibilities. If the vehicle needs to be towed, it’s common practice to disconnect one or preferably both of the half shafts, or the propshaft, to prevent transmission damage. If this is the case, always ensure that exposed output flange shafts are covered to protect them.

Diagnosing water ingress Water ingress is often only discovered during oil changes, although in some cases, the onset of rust may be evident at one of the Breather hose connection at axle casing

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â– Check that the end of the breather hose is

higher than the connection to the axle, and the hole where it enters the body cavity is sealed with silicone sealant (Fig 2).

Inspect axle seals Investigate any lubricant seepage from the hub and pinion seals, which would indicate that they are damaged or worn. The seals are vulnerable to water entry, not only when traversing floods or fords, but also during

Onset of corrosion at axle half shaft flange

half shaft flanges (Fig 3) or at the wheel bearing (Fig 4). Where this occurs, it will quickly compromise the ability of the

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Onset of corrosion at wheel bearing

lubricants within the axle to provide corrosion protection and wear prevention.

The axle will begin to corrode inside the axle

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Severe corrosion on half shaft after prolonged exposure to water

case (Fig 5), with the resulting contamination causing pitting of the bearings and/or scuffing to the crown wheel and pinion or

the differential, accelerating wear.

The first indication of such damage is usually noise, although axles have been known to lose drive or suffer bearing collapse without any prior warning signals. This indicates that the axle internals have suffered severe damage, with the inevitable result being a hefty repair bill. If water is suspected to have entered the axle, this should be brought to the immediate attention of the vehicle operator, with a recommendation that the oil be changed, or at least sampled in the first instance to check for contamination.

Oil sampling and lubricant replacement Oil sampling is an excellent way of monitoring axle condition to gauge potential lifespan, and can also provide early warning of the presence of water.

While many operators regularly oil sample engines and gearboxes as part of their maintenance regime, the axle is often overlooked. If irregularities in the axle oil are detected, an oil change must be carried out. In this situation, it is essential to also

check the grease filling in the hub carrier, in the inner rings of the compact wheel bearing and in the flange shaft. When replacing lubricants, precautions should be taken to avoid introducing water during the operation. Drums of lubricant kept outside should be stored in a roofed area to prevent pollution with rainwater, and filling and transfer equipment should be checked for water contamination before use.

Lubricant specifications A ZF axle should always be serviced and maintained in accordance with both ZF’s and the individual vehicle manufacturer’s guidelines. Adhering to the correct oil specification and observing the replacement intervals is crucial for long and trouble-free axle life. Mineral oils typically need to be changed at 60,000 miles or yearly intervals – whichever occurs sooner – and hub greases generally need renewing every 500,000 miles or four years.

For more information on ZF Aftermarket’s axle offering, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ024

AXLES & SUSPENSION

A

longside its usual passenger car range, First Line has a growing reputation for its commercial vehicle programme, which has been further strengthened with the addition of more than 100 new-to-range steering and suspension components so far this year.

Launched in 2015, the CV range has experienced considerable year-on-year sales growth, resulting in a particularly successful 2018. The launch of these new part numbers will ensure this upward trend continues, and that the company’s customers have access to the parts they need to compete in an increasing and diverse market.

The additions comprise anti-roll bar bushes, ball joints, centre rods, rack ends, stabiliser links, tie rods, tie rod ends, torque rods and V-stay bars. These, along with the existing products in the range, cater for many popular applications, including a number of the latest Euro 6 compliant vehicles such as Mercedes Atego/Actros,

Fully COATED First Line, under the Borg & Beck brand, has recently increased its steering and suspension range for CV applications. The additions boast some new features, including an ‘E-coating’.

MAN TGL, Scania P Series, Mitsubishi Canter and Volvo FE/FH. Naturally these Borg & Beck products are produced to OE specification by the company’s partner manufacturers, who operate under ISO9001 and TS16949 certification.

E-coat As well as being branded and batch-coded for full traceability and subjected to First Line’s testing and approval processes, all of the steering and suspension parts are fully E-coated. This procedure delivers several key advantages, starting with its exceptional corrosion resistance in all weather conditions and a high resistance to stone chips and other road debris. It also

provides protection from chemical degeneration such as oil/brake fluid, affords a uniform covering across the entire surface of the product, and is environmentally friendly.

The steering and suspension range is all fully E-coated using a process called electrophoresis, an organic, water based technology that uses positively charged ‘paint’ to adhere to the part. Electrophoresis is commonly used throughout the automotive industry for parts that operate in hostile road conditions.

Development and production parts are routinely tested to meet the specifications of the OE component, going through more than 18 different assessment types, including metallurgical analysis, dynamic load, destructive fatigue and product specific tests, such as ball pin pull load and radial movement measurement. Borg & Beck suspension parts also feature forged ball pins on torque rods and V-stay bars, to ensure increased longevity versus the cast parts which are common in the marketplace. As a result, all Borg & Beck CV components are supplied with a 24month, unlimited mileage warranty against manufacturing defects for total peace of mind.

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ025

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 45

TOOLS & WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

MOVING day

B

ased in the North East, MAN Truck & Bus Gateshead provides a onestop service that includes new and used vehicle sales, genuine parts supply, plus servicing and maintenance. The company’s loyal customer base includes single truck owner drivers, and fleet operators with over 100 vehicles. In recent times, it has launched its Advantage programme, which provides all-makes van servicing, and features a range of flexible packages to meet the needs of its customers.

During the recent upgrading of its workshop, MAN Truck & Bus Gateshead decided to replace its existing set of four Stertil Koni 6.5 tonne cabled column lifts with a set of six wireless mobile column lifts, type ST1075FWA. These latest 7.5 tonne capacity Stertil Koni heavy duty lifts enable workshop technicians to carry out regular servicing and maintenance operations on a wider range of buses, trucks, and up to three and four-axle lorries.

The absence of cables eliminates any risk of tripping, and the positioning of the columns around all kinds of vehicles is completely unrestricted, thereby providing total freedom within the workshop for maximum space utilisation.

When used as a set of six, the ST1075FWA mobile wireless column lifts ensure an impressive combined safe lifting capacity of 45 tonnes. Each column also features Stertil Koni’s revolutionary ebright

Having relied on Stertil Koni heavy duty vehicle lifts for over 20 years, MAN Truck & Bus had no hesitation in specifying the latest generation of wireless mobile column models.

This was decided ahead of the company’s move to a new seven bay workshop located on the same trading estate in Team Valley Gateshead.

Smart Control System, which provides complete flexibility by allowing workshop technicians to operate the columns individually, in pairs, or in any other configuration – from any column in the set.

This flexibility enables technicians to work with confidence and in complete safety.

Incorporating full-colour touch screen consoles, the ebright Smart Control System has been designed and developed to simplify operation by providing maximum visual information about every lifting

operation at all times. For optimum safety and performance, the ebright Smart Control System also shows how many columns in the set are being used. The ST1075FWA provides a maximum lifting height of 1.85m, which is reached in just 75 seconds.

The columns include Stertil’s maintenance-free, synthetic runner wheel system, which is self-lubricating, and the system is covered by a lifetime guarantee.

An integral advanced hydraulic lifting system features a microprocessor-controlled synchronisation feature to ensure safe, smooth and precise movement at all times.

Safety is further enhanced by an independent mechanical locking system, integrated within each column, which allows technicians to securely lock the lift to prevent a vehicle from being inadvertently lowered.

“Our previous cabled column lifts from Stertil Koni worked hard for over 20 years with no serious problems,” says Matt Forth, General Manager at MAN Truck & Bus Gateshead. “In a typical day, our workshop technicians deal with no less than 30 buses and trucks, and the new wireless lifts are invaluable in supporting a whole range of servicing and maintenance operations. Also, on the odd occasions when lifting is not required, the technicians can simply wheel them away to free up space in the workshop.”

For more information,

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ026

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 47

TOOLS & WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

Clearing the air Stef Lievens, Business Line Manager for Industrial Air at Atlas Copco, compares rotary screw air compressors with alternate types.

R

epair shops, tyre bays, service garages and small metalworking companies all rely on a source of compressed air to support their activities.

Now, major advances in design and technology make it possible for existing and potential compressed air users to take advantage of the guaranteed reliability, efficiency and economic benefits of the latest generation of workplace rotary screw compressors.

Getting down to basics, but without too much technical detail, rotary screw compressors provide many distinct advantages over their reciprocating and vane counterparts in terms of size, air delivery, duty cycle and longevity. In addition to overall energy efficiency, rotary screw air compressors offer multiple benefits compared to other compressor technologies.

These features include low noise output, light weight and small footprint for point-ofuse plug-and-play installation. They also offer continuous operation at temperatures of up to 46°C, extremely low oil-carryover into the delivered air, simplified maintenance procedures and zero loss of capacity over time.

48 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

Furthermore, smaller screw compressors can be tank-mounted to enable additional air storage capacity, while full-feature variants with an integrated dryer and oilwater separator protect the compressed air network and end-user output.

Comparing like for like To see why the rotary screw compressor has made such progress in comparison to piston and vane technologies, it may help to examine the pros and cons of their operating principles and performances relative to the average workshop’s requirements.

The piston, or the reciprocating air compressor, has traditionally been regarded as the most economical and least expensive type of air compressor. In its simplest form, it is still the most common type found in the automotive service industry.

In more demanding roles, technically advanced versions

can incorporate multiple compression stages to make them particularly suitable for high-pressure applications.

However, in small to mid-range piston compressors, some major drawbacks need to be considered. For instance, they are primarily intended for intermittent use. The average piston compressor can only work for about 50 to 60% of its duty cycle, or for the amount of time a compressor can continuously operate without stopping to prevent overheating in a given period. These units require adequate cooling time between cycles, otherwise they can overheat and possibly fail. In contrast, rotary screw air compressors run cooler, and are designed to operate continuously at a 100% duty cycle.

Component wear is also an issue. Just like a vehicle engine, reciprocating compressors feature piston rings and other components that are in direct contact with each other, and suffer wear over time. With wear

comes a decrease in performance, oil carryover and excessive heat generation.

They tend to run hotter as efficiency decreases and operating time increases. A lubricated rotary screw compressor is designed so that the compressor oil seals the internal rotors, preventing parts from wearing out. Unlike a reciprocating compressor that loses performance with age, the rotary screw compressor can maintain the same level of performance throughout its long service life.

Rotary screw air compressors tend to deliver more air per kW of power compared to reciprocating compressors of the same size. This enables the use of a smaller rotary machine in place of its piston equivalent with the same output, contributing to significant energy savings.

A further complication is that reciprocating compressors require air tanks to reduce air pulses created in the compression process. As a result, they need to employ receivers to smooth the airflow and handle large demands from workplace air users, tools and equipment. On the other hand, rotary screw compressors do not

create air pulses, and – depending on capacity - are able to deliver large volumes of air when required without the need for a reservoir. Furthermore, they are built to operate for an extensive working life without requiring major repair.

It is a similar story with rotary vane compressors. The simple vane principle has the longest track record since its introduction almost 100 years ago.

However, such design longevity and simplicity does not necessarily equate to energy efficiency. Neither does it allow for a

full range of capabilities in comparison to those offered by rotary screw compressor,s in terms of turndown rates, speed range limitations and energy demand.

In much the same way as the piston compressor is affected by component wear, the vane operating principle involves continuous sliding in and out of the rotor vane slot within the stator casing. As a result, both the vane and slot are subject to excessive wear, eventually leading to failure of the vane and all that entails.

There are also disadvantages in terms of the vane compressor’s maximum speed, which affects output. For instance, as vane compressors rely on centrifugal force to operate, their maximum speed is limited to 1,000-1,100rpm, which is a third of that for a screw compressor air element.

It is clear to see that the innovative developments embodied in advanced rotary screw compressor technology provide a clear advantage in performance and compatibility with workshops’ needs.

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ027

TOOLS & WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

A bottomless pit Having access to the underside of a vehicle leads to various opportunities in the workshop.

CVW explores just how thorough the installation process of these pits is.

P

remier Pits claims to be the longest established pit manufacturer in the UK, having been manufacturing and installing pits for 40 years, with 4,000 pits installed to date. The range includes inspection, maintenance, rail, ATF and washdown pits, all supported by various pit accessories and H&S equipment. Underchassis, wash pits and ramps are also available. When choosing a pit manufacturer, it is vital that the product meets the highest manufacturing standards. Every Premier Pit and Ramp complies to CE and BS EN 10901: 2009 + A1: 2011, BS OHSAS 18001:2007 SSIP, giving its customers confidence in the quality of the product.

Vehicle maintenance workshops both across the UK and worldwide are being transformed by the installation of prefabricated, steel pits. Premier Pits, the creators of the concept, continues to make design improvements, add new features and options, as well as improving installation methods.

From the first point of contact, to the completion of the job, Premier Pits offer a complete package. Advice is given on the type of pit to install, along with the modifications and accessories required for working on specific vehicles. The skilled and experienced, design engineers use the latest CAD design facilities, and can provide design support to architects, structural engineers and contractors alike. Once delivered to the site,

the pits are installed by one of the company’s own teams of skilled and experienced fitters.

Before hand over, Premier Pits always ensures that the pit and surrounding floor is clean and tidy, with all waste material removed. To ensure that everything is still in order on new build projects, the company revisits the site just before the building is handed over to the client.

Premier Pits is also the UK distributor for BrakeMate, an elevated platform for servicing heavy vehicle brake disc

assemblies. The product eliminates the majority of manual lifting during the disc brake maintenance process and substantially reduces service time, leading to a saving in both time and money. On top of this, it enables a single user to complete the whole process, rather than being a two-person job.

This enables other jobs to be completed more efficiently, meaning further time savings.

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ028

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 51

TOOLS & WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

Show and tell

Having visited TotalKare at the CV Show this year, Facilities Management specialist Norse Commercial Services is set to benefit from increased availability of its minibus and service van fleet, following the installation of two vehicle lifts.

T

he company, whose support service operations include planned and reactive building maintenance, cleaning, security and waste management, installed two fixed two post lifts at its Norwich vehicle workshop after seeing the lift at TotalKare’s stand at the Commercial Vehicle Show in Birmingham.

The product is ideal for companies with a large fleet of vans that require regular maintenance and repair work. It can lift up to 5,500kg, making it suitable for vans, minibuses and pickup trucks. Its telescopic arms allow it to be easily adjusted to fit a variety of vehicles – even long wheelbase vehicles, such as the Mercedes-Benz Sprinter, or Volkswagen Crafter. A simple drive-in action allows for quick set-up too, facilitating even more efficient vehicle inspection.

The two post lift installations complement the existing two sets of TotalKare mobile column lifts already at Norse Commercial Services’ Norwich workshop. Installation will be supported with an ‘AfterKare’ service package, including expert advice available on the phone 24-hours per day, two service visits per year and Reports of Thorough Examination. The latter is often overlooked and misunderstood, but is required by LOLER and is a vital part of the safe operation of heavy-duty vehicle lifts in the workshop.

“We now have the lifting capacity required to cover the full range of vehicles in our fleet,” said Terry Carson, Workshop Manager at Norse Commercial Services, “I was particularly pleased with the short

52 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

The full offering

lead-time, from placing the order to the quality installation that has made a major difference to our workshop.”

Adam Bowser, Area Sales Manager for TotalKare, said, “Having the two post lift on our stand at the Commercial Vehicle Show was ideal for Norse Commercial Services, who had enquired with us prior to the event.

It gave our technical experts the opportunity to demonstrate what it can do and ensure that it met the customer’s specific requirements. This, coupled with the costeffective solution we were able to offer, were key factors in their selection of TotalKare.”

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ029

TotalKare supplies heavy-duty vehicle lifting and testing solutions and aftersales care, providing four and two post lifts, forklifter ramp systems and a comprehensive suite of ancillary products, including transmission jacks, trailer beams and support stands. The company also launched its new brake tester range earlier this year, the first time the business has introduced nonlifting products to its portfolio.

Available as mobile or in-ground options, the brake tester is technically advanced and the company claims it is amongst the strongest and most reliable brake testing systems currently available. It is set to improve durability and features app technology so that data and subsequent analysis can be completed on a tablet. TotalKare offers ongoing support for its brake testers through comprehensive nationwide service coverage and can also cater for the BM range of in-ground and mobile brake testers.

TOOLS & WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT

A measured approach AES UK’s new Josam Cam-aligner provides all the necessary equipment to perform quick and accurate wheel alignment measurements with documentation. Here are the features and benefits.

T

he future-proofed system makes it easy to measure and adjust all vehicle configurations, including dynamic steering enabled vehicles. It also has the functionality to perform calibration of the FLS/LPOS sensors without the need for a road test. Volvo and Renault approved system features:

■ It is safer, as the truck remains in the

workshop ■ Both sensors can be calibrated at once ■ Weather and lighting do not impact

results ■ A faster calibration process, compared to

driving calibration ■ It’s cost-effective compared to on-road

calibration ■ Ability to perform static FLS and LPOS

Measure and adjust caster, KPI and turn angles

calibration ■ Ability to quickly measure caster, KPI

and turn angles ■ Twinsteer measure and adjustment

modes ■ Frame measurement

Static LPOS and FLS calibration Lane position object sensors (LPOS) and forward-looking sensors (FLS) talk to the on-board control units for lane departure warning systems (LDWS), autonomous emergency braking systems (AEBS) and the emergency brake, collision warning systems (EB-CW). The AEBS and LDWS could need calibrating for a number of reasons, including a cracked windscreen, collision on the lower front, large adjustment of rear axles and many more.

The Volvo and Renault approved system and software allows calibration of the LPOS and FLS without having to drive the vehicle. Driving calibration of these sensors can be time consuming; road, weather and lightning conditions, as well as the vehicle itself, can impact the time it takes to calibrate, and sometimes not even calibrate it at all. Usually, two operatives are needed on a driving calibration.

A static calibration offers the following advantages; ■ Only one operator is required

This measurement is based on a single continuous movement of the wheels, from a straight-ahead position to maximum left, via maximum right and back to the starting position. During this procedure, the built-in gyroscope and inclinometer are constantly transmitting data to the computer, which calculates the caster, KPI and turn angles in different wheel positions. The entire process can be carried out in a matter of minutes.

Measuring and adjusting twinsteer The approved system allows for easier measuring of twinsteer vehicles; the cameras are mounted on the steering-gear side of the vehicle, with one camera facing forward (1st steer) and one camera facing backwards (2nd steer). This allows the system to monitor the straight-ahead position in live mode, whilst adjustments to the second-steer can be performed by providing a before and after report.

Frame measurement The approved system also allows users to measure a vehicle’s chassis: the software requires an input of frame width at the front and rear of the vehicle, and also the width of the mounted gauge. From this, the software guides you through taking reference points, then onto measurement points along the chassis. The output is a graphic report stating side bend and vertical bend.

For more information online, GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ030

COMPETITION

SOCKET to ‘em!

Bahco is offering 12 lucky readers the chance to win one 25-piece socket set per entrant.

The question is: How would commercial vehicle engineers manage without good socket sets?

They’re as vital as an adjustable wrench to a plumber, or a 1,000V insulated screwdriver to an electrician. Most engineers and mechanics know the Bahco brand – its quality tools and equipment are said to be a staple for many.

In particular, the available SL25 ¼″ socket set is manufactured from high performance alloy steel and has Dynamic Drive sockets,

which cause less wear and damage to fasteners. The ratchet has a quick release button, and is both safe and comfortable to use. This is your opportunity to get your hands on just such an item.

Bahco’s socket set range offers a wide choice of tool content, from 17- to 138piece sets, in all essential sizes, with some incorporating other tools. For now, however, enter below to be in with a chance of winning a 25-piece Bahco socket sets in this latest CVW competition.

More available from Bahco The company’s heavy duty bolting tools and socket sets are ideally suited to commercial vehicle workshop use, whether technicians are working on vans, buses, HGVs, or specialist vehicles. Beyond these particular sets, Bahco also offers ergonomic tool management and storage trolleys with customerspecified profiled drawers. This provides a tailored offering to any customer who wants to keep his/her

56 CVW NOVEMBER 2016

workshop organised and efficient.

Lockable and easy to move around, this workshop equipment helps engineers guard against foreign object debris and any potential damage it can cause. Not only that, but owners can see at a glance which tools are missing from the trolley.

Customers can decide on the number of drawers and their layout, using Bahco Configurator software. To view the full range, visit www.bahco.com

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning this great prize, all you have to do is answer the following question (hint – the answer can be found in this article): GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ031

Q

How many socket pieces are in the Bahco set up for grabs?

A. 20 B. 22

C. 25 Deadline for entries is 10/12/19. Terms & Conditions apply. See website for details.

COMPETITION

A purified cab is a safer cab Primalec gives readers the opportunity to win a brand new Airco Shield Purifier, a fresh solution to polluted air in vehicles.

Professional drivers spend a lot of time in their vehicles, and even with the A/C on, the air can get stale, and even unpleasant.

Germs, bacteria, allergens, unpleasant odours and many other contaminants also accumulate over time. Primalec’s Airco Shield Purifier provides a cleaner, safer solution for vehicles.

■ Easy to use and works

Primalec is offering a profitable new customer service proposition without consumable costs, with a number of benefits:

How the Airco Shield Purifer works

while you do other work.

■ Kills bacteria and germs,

and destroys mould spores.

■ Eliminates virtually all odours

without masking them.

■ No chemicals or REACH

compliance to worry about.

The Airco Shield Purifier uses the natural power of Ozone to eliminate bad smells, smoke, mildew, bacteria and allergens. It creates Ozone using short wave ultraviolet inside a chamber within the machine.

Ozone is one of the most powerful and effective eliminators of tobacco smoke and many other contaminants, including odours from pets, rodents, mould, mildew, fast food, cooking and other sources.

How often should the vehicle be purified?

For most vehicles, every six months is the recommended interval between treatments, but if occupied for long periods every day, then shorter intervals may be desirable. In

any case, purification is recommended when changing the cabin air filter.

HOW TO ENTER

To be in with a chance of winning this great prize, all you have to do is answer the following question (hint – the answer can be found in this article): GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ032

Q

Which natural antibacterial does the Airco Shield Purifier use to eliminate allergens, bacteria and odours?

A. Oxygen B. Ozone C. Air

Deadline for entries is 10/12/19. Terms & Conditions apply. See website for details.

NOVEMBER 2019 CVW 59

PROFESSIONAL MOTOR MECHANIC

MECHANEX

THE REGIONAL TRADESHOW FOR AUTO REPAIR PROFESSIONALS

MECHANEX HEADS TO SANDOWN PARK The UK’s only regional tradeshow dedicated to garages and workshops is back, with a fresh approach and a host of exciting new content.

SANDOWN PARK, SURREY I TUESDAY 12TH & WEDNESDAY 13TH NOVEMBER, 10AM – 4PM

MECHANEX SEMINAR TIMETABLE DAY 1 – 12TH NOVEMBER

DAY 2 – 13TH NOVEMBER

10:30 – EV & PHEV:

10:30 – EV & PHEV:

STEVE CARTER

STEVE CARTER

11:30 – THE DPF DOCTOR’S SURGERY:

11:30 – THE DPF DOCTOR’S SURGERY:

DARREN DARLING

DARREN DARLING

12:15 – TALK OF THE TRADE

12:15 –THE AFTERMARKET IN 2019

HOSTED BY NEIL PATTEMORE

AND BEYOND:

13:00 – MOT UPDATE:

IAAF

DVSA

13:00 – MOT UPDATE:

14:00 – DELIVERING DIAGNOSTICS:

DVSA

STEVE SCOTT

14:00 – DELIVERING DIAGNOSTICS: STEVE SCOTT

MAKE A DAY OF IT

The opening hours for the show will be 10am-4pm. It’s an unmissable opportunity to attend FREE seminars, sample the latest products in the market, and take advantage of exclusive special offers. So, why not bring the full workforce along and make a day of it?

GET SOCIAL

To keep up to date with all things MECHANEX in 2019, be sure to visit WWW.MECHANEX.INFO, like us on Facebook and follow us on Twitter!

MECHANEXShow Also running alongside MECHANEX this year:

@MECHANEXShow

GIVEAWAYS

ARE YOU FEELING LUCK Y? FOR YOUR CHANCE TO WIN THESE GIVEAWAYS, GO TO WWW.RDR.LINK/VJ033

10 TAPE MEASURES Borg & Beck Borg & Beck is giving away 10 high-quality 3m tape measures, which are ideal for measuring components to aid in the identification process.

Borg & Beck has a comprehensive CV programme, including braking, steering and suspension, water pumps, air and electrical coils, and rotating electrics. The range is constantly reviewed and updated, and can be looked up on the company’s online catalogue, WebCat.

3 MINI FLOODLIGHTS Ledlenser

Ledleser is giving away three of its iW5R floodlights. Perfect for working in even extremely tight conditions, such as cable shafts and engine compartments, the iW5R flex mini floodlight ensures a clear view and free hands, as well as the following useful properties: ■ Chip-on-Board technology for even light distribution ■ Light options: focused spot light and broad work light ■ USB charging In addition to its compact dimensions and flexible attachment options by magnetic holder and hook, the compact floodlight scores points thanks to a folding LED lamp head, which illuminates even the tightest crevices directly from the inside, with a seven year warranty for complete peace of mind.

TEA BREAK STEERTRAK RIDDLE ROAD Below are six riddles. Find each answer, and then take each letter from the yellow boxes to unscramble the combination and find the thing that makes your vehicle run. If you send in the final, unscrambled word, you can be in with a chance of winning an Amazon Echo Dot!

teaser

To enter, text ‘ALIGN CVW’‌followed by the answer and your email address to 66777 (standard text costs apply).

Alternatively, email your answer to info@steertrak.co.uk. All answers to be submitted by 10/11/2019. T&Cs apply.

Win

__ _Y _ U_ _ _ _ í˘˛ People buy me to eat, but never eat me. What am I? _A__ í˘ł What has legs but cannot walk? ___L_ í˘´ What has an eye but cannot see? _ R_ í˘ľ Feed me and I live, yet give me a drink and I die. í˘ś No flesh or feathers, nor scales nor bone; but they do have fingers and thumbs of their own. What are they?

L____ í˘ą What has a head, a tail, is brown, and has no legs?

Answer:

CAN YOU GUESS THE ARTIST? These images represent a famous band, can you guess which one?

Win

FIND THE STEERTRAK TRUCK We’ve hidden the Steertrak truck somewhere within this issue of CVW. Find it and email info@steertrak.co.uk with the page number it’s located on, to be in with a chance of winning some Steertrak goodies.

Contact Steertrak today on 01684 276900, or visit www.steertrak.co.uk Artist answer: Fleetwood Mac

WHAT’S NEW?

SEALEY CHRISTMAS PROMOTION Sealey’s 2019 Christmas promotion has launched, and runs through to 31st December 2019, with over 800 deals in total and savings of up to 57%. It is packed with great offers and festive ideas, with lots of new products inside. It contains many free gifts, including Pocket Lights, Sound Bars, and Wireless Earphones. Several new products are featured, including the LED068 Colour Matching Floodlight, Electrician’s Kits with Storage Bag, Rotary Hammer Drills, Polishing Kits and Trolley Jack Combos, which include a Jack Bag, Axle Stands, Folding Wheel Chocks and L-Bar Wrench.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ034

ABSOLUTE ALIGNMENT TYRE PROFILER

BOWMONK-TAPLEY CARBON CLEANING MACHINES Bowmonk-Tapley introduces the ECS range of engine carbon cleaning machines.

These machines are portable, compact and user-friendly, requiring very few operational skills to set up and use.

The 60-minute cleaning treatment will break down and disperse carbon deposits within the engine’s working components, restoring the performance and economy levels close to the manufacturer’s original specification. Available in three variants, the range is versatile and applicable to the following classes of vehicle:

Absolute Alignment has introduced to its range a new drive-over Tyre Profiler, which instantly assesses tyre wear as vehicles enter the workshop. The profiler works with a registration look-up system and as part of the remote two-minute check that the 3D wheel aligner offers.

Suitable for small and large workshops, a floor or in-ground mount is available to suit every outlet, and with no moving parts it ensures a safe working environment.

Customers also receive a professional print out regarding the condition of their tyres, which also indicates whether a full wheel alignment is required on the vehicle.

The Tyre Profiler allows the user to easily identify any potential problems on a car before it becomes a larger issue.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ037

■ 12V Automotive – for power units of

49cc to 8L, petrol or diesel, of 2 or 4stroke format.

■ 4V HGV – for all commercial vehicle power units of 10-16L. ■ 24V Plant – for all non-road mobile machinery power units of 14-30L.

DVSA VEHICLE TESTING APP Annual testing for buses and coaches is set to get more accurate and more efficient, thanks to an new app being used

by DVSA staff. The smartphone app gives DVSA vehicle standards assessors access to the complete technical record of the vehicle being tested, and allows them to record bus and coach annual test results in real time without the need to go through various different systems.

The app also guides DVSA’s testers through the process of visiting an ATF and testing vehicles, and will eventually give operators and drivers quicker access to more accurate and comprehensive test information and test certificates, as well as up to date information to help identify unsafe, heavy vehicles on Britain’s roads.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ035

64 CVW NOVEMBER 2019

In addition to significant reductions in the emission levels, immediate differences are said to be seen in engine running temperature and initial throttle response.

Ongoing regular treatment at every major service will ensure the engine runs efficiently and smoothly, reducing the likelihood of expensive component replacement. Completely portable, the machines are powered by the subject vehicle’s battery connections, making them an ideal solution for the mobile technician.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ036

KAMASA TOOLS SCREWDRIVER SET This comprehensive set from Kamasa Tools (part number 56131) offers a selection of screwdrivers, a bit-driver and two sets of hex keys (metric and imperial). The set also includes a stand that makes all the drivers and accessories easily accessible.

The kit contains 17 soft-grip handled screwdrivers, the drivers manufactured from chrome vanadium steel with a satin chrome finish. It includes: ■ 3 Star screwdrivers T8 x 75mm, T10 x

100mm and T15 x 100mm ■ 4 Phillips Ph0 x 75mm, Ph1 x 75mm,

Ph1 x 100mm and Ph2 x 100mm ■ 4 PzDrive Pz0 x 75mm, Pz1 x 100mm,

Pz2 x 100mm and Pz3 x 150mm ■ 6 flat drivers, 3mm x 75mm, 3mm x

75mm, 5mm x 75mm, 5mm x 100mm, 6mm x 100mm and 8mm x 150mm.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ038

TRI-SPHERE ULTRASONIC WELDING KIT New from Tri-Sphere is the Ultrasonic Welding Kit. It is a versatile lightweight welding system designed to manage a range of delicate plastic welding processes in a variety of different repair situations in light commercial vehicles. Ideal for use on bumpers and wheelarches, the kit harnesses ultrasound technology to weld plastics without the need for adhesives, from smooth surface to button welds.

TESA ADHESIVE TAPE Commercial vehicle bodybuilders, suppliers and vehicle conversion specialists are increasingly turning to adhesive tapes in a range of applications to increase productivity, safely. To speed up assembly time, Tesa has created a high performance adhesive tape, ACX Plus.

At present, mechanical fasteners and liquid adhesives are the preferred fixing methods, yet these approaches come with significant labour intensity requirements.

However, modern industrial adhesive tapes are not only quicker to use than traditional bonding methods, but provide high-performance, precision engineered solutions to even the most demanding bonding challenges.

ACX Plus not only tackles bonding challenges, but also has commercial benefits: with one major bodybuilder able to reduce trailer roof assembly from three hours to less than one, a liquid adhesive process can be replaced with the ACX Plus adhesive tape.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ039

The Ultrasonic Welding Kit includes: ■ Ultrasonic generator ■ Gun/emitter ■ Two titanium sonotrodes ■ Low voltage cable ■ Two grub screws ■ Allen key ■ Wrenches (18 and 36mm) The kit’s 0.8kg weight and ergonomic grip allow versatility and handling. The touchscreen enables the operator to determine a variety of settings, including welding times.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ040

CLARIOS POWER PACK With up to a six times longer cycle life and great reliability, Clarios’ VARTA ProMotive AGM demonstrates the following benefits: ■ The high performance battery minimizes

Total Cost of Ownership.

■ Hotel comfort: Power for parking cooler

and heater.

■ Long service life even under the

heaviest loads.

It also enables the greatest possible level of comfort in the driver's cabin. This is an important competitive advantage in an industry where it is increasingly difficult to obtain and retain drivers.

Large numbers of electrical consumers require more and more energy, causing deep discharged batteries, especially after overnight stays. This puts a strain on the performance of commercial vehicle batteries. The VARTA ProMotive AGM alleviates this problem, providing the ideal power supply for vehicles equipped with comfort and advanced start-stop features.

GO TO www.rdr.link/VJ041

ADVERTISEMENT INDEX

Actia Ltd ................................................................ (page 44)

IMS Limited ............................................................ (page 43)

Bailey Morris Limited ............................................ (page 53)

Jack Sealey Limited .............................................. (page 46)

BBL Batteries ........................................................ (page 35)

Kalimex Ltd ............................................................ (page 62)

BPW Limited ............................................................ (page 4)

Knorr Bremse Truck Serv .............................................. (ibc)

Castrol UK Ltd ...................................................... (page 10)

Liftmaster Limited ............................................ (loose insert)

Checkpoint Safety ................................................ (page 13)

Maha UK ................................................................ (page 55)

Chicago Pneumatic .............................................. (page 53)

Mirka (UK) Ltd ........................................................ (page 37)

Conren Ltd ............................................................ (page 57)

Morris Lubricants .................................................. (page 39)

Continental Automotive Trading Ltd ...................... (page 55)

Norbar Torque Tools Ltd ........................................ (page 50)

Continental Tyres Group Ltd .................................. (page 40)

Premier Pits Ltd ...................................................... (page 7)

Dr Airbrake ............................................................ (page 58)

Robert Bosch Ltd .................................................. (page 27)

ECCO Safety Group .............................................. (page 57)

Rotronics Battery Management Solutions ............ (page 21)

Eclipse Automotive Technology Ltd ...................... (page 61)

Schaeffler (UK) Ltd .......................................................... (ifc)

European Braking Systems .................................. (page 28)

SP Diagnostics ...................................................... (page 62)

Febi ........................................................................ (page 16)

Spillard Safety Systems Ltd .................................. (page 19)

Garage Equipment Asso ........................................ (page 65)

Stertil UK Ltd ........................................................ (page 32)

Gemco Equipment ........................................................ (obc)

The Tyre Equipment Co ........................................ (page 57)

GS Yuasa Battery Sales UK Ltd ............................ (page 31)

Tool Connection .................................................... (page 49)

Hankook ................................................................ (page 24)

VLS (UK) Ltd .......................................................... (page 15)

Hope Technical Developments Ltd ........................ (page 44)

Wabco Automotive UK Limited ............................ (page 50)

In the next issue of CV W… ■ Fuels, Lubricants ■ Light

& Additives

Commercial Vehicles

■ Vehicle

& Workshop Cleaning

Plus: Competitions, giveaways, product launches, special reports and much more!

CVW brings you the latest industry news, product information and technical guidance.

66 CVW NOVEMBER 2019