Aftermarket April 2022

APRIL 2022 AFTERMARKET 45 Left: Comline is looking to grow its steering and suspension range by 35% this year www.aftermarketonline.net is more cost-effective than a main dealer.” “Notably, the introduction of the Tesla components reaffirms our drive to cater for the increasing number of electrified vehicles on UK roads, and while some independents are daunted at the prospect of working on EVs, this development allows them to gain revenue from the type of repair that is common to all cars and vans, regardless of how they are powered.” For further information, visit: www.delphiautoparts.com Significant Discussing the importance of the stabiliser in the suspension system, Charles Figgins, Technical Marketing Manager at bilstein group, observed: “Stabiliser bars have been installed in passenger cars for many decades and have remained practically unchanged in this time. The stabiliser bar, or anti-roll bar, is little known to many motorists, although this component plays a significant role in ensuring a safe and comfortable journey. The simple reason; Without a stabiliser bar, vehicles would overturn in corners and driving comfort would be drastically reduced when driving straight ahead as well. As a rule, even knocking noises from the suspension are attributable to a fault in the stabiliser bar area. “Failure of or damage to the stabiliser bar is mostly inexpensive. This is due to the relatively low material costs and straightforward installation, but beware; If the stabiliser bar is damaged, the vehicle should not be moved. Failure increases the risk of the rolling motion of the body structure, getting out of control and the vehicle overturning.” On its design and function, Charles observed: “The stabiliser bar is mostly mounted on a subframe and in rubber bearings. The stabiliser links connect the stabiliser bar to the suspension struts or, alternatively, to the control arms. Special ball joints on the stabiliser links ensure the necessary freedom of movement to allow the stabiliser bar to do its job flawlessly. When a wheel deflects, the torsion of the stabiliser bar ensures that the other wheel is also raised and likewise lowered upon rebound. This prevents excessive rolling, or lateral tilting, of the body when cornering. If the two wheels deflect simultaneously, the stabiliser bar does not activate.” On how to deal with a faulty component, Charles commented: “In the event of failure or damage to the system, loud knocking noises frequently occur in the suspension when driving over bumps or potholes. These are mostly caused by worn bearings or defective ball joints on the stabiliser links. In the case of worn bearings, an unintended play arises between bearing and stabiliser bar, and the stabiliser bar begins to rattle in the bearings on deflection and rebound. “A frequently installed type of stabiliser link features ball joints that are protected by a rubber boot from spray water and external influences. They are also packed with grease to make the movement as frictionless as possible. Every now and then, the rubber boot or the associated seal is damaged. This allows water to enter and provides for unnaturally high wear—the consequence: too much play in the joints, which leads to the noises mentioned above.” He added: “When replacing the stabiliser link, it must always be ensured that the correct torque is applied during installation. Otherwise, the ball joint can be damaged, wear prematurely or even break off.” For more information, visit: www.febi.com Experience Steering and suspension can also use a little help from additive sometimes, as Dan Morgan, Sales and Operations Director for Lucas Oil Products (UK) observed: “An important part of problem solving in the workshop is to know when the right solution for the vehicle is not necessarily replacing a unit. Experience shows that the solution can often be an appropriate additive.” Starting on the steering side, symptoms like squeals, whines and hard spots do not have to imply the need for a new steering column. Dan commented: “Worn racks and pinions can be treated from the inside. Leaks can be sealed by using products like our Power Steering Stop Leak additive, which was designed specifically to address these maintenance issues. It’s solvent-free and guaranteed to be compatible with any power steering fluid that’s already inside the unit. “Meanwhile, garages can introduce an element of preventive maintenance by choosing to use Lucas Oil Power Steering Fluid. It’s a general-purpose product, formulated using special base oils and additives that increase lubricity and provide protection against wear. Its mild swell additives help to improve the condition of existing O-rings and seals, preventing leaks. The oxidation and foam inhibitors it contains also help to extend the operational life of the fluid.” Moving over to the transmission side, Dan said: “If a gearbox, engine, or transmission is not running smoothly, additives can help to settle down problems more quickly and more economically, without having to strip anything down. It’s a time-saver for the garage that adds revenue and a cost saver for the garage customer. “When the transmission is slipping or if gear shifting is not as smooth as it should be, the causes might be worn bands, operating temperatures that are too high or leaking seals. These problems can be successfully treated with Lucas Oil’s Transmission Fix additive. It is ideal for use in most cars, car-derived vans and transits, which makes it a first call for a simple workshop fix.” Dan added: “It improves the shift by cleaning and lubricating sticking valves. It stops leaks and reduces the temperature inside the transmission. Furthermore, if used as a preventative solution, it extends transmission fluid life.” Right: febi stabiliser link with lock nuts