Aftermarket September 2022

SEPTEMBER 2022 AFTERMARKET 45 www.aftermarketonline.net According to Nick, if the starter motor has burnt out but the solenoid is operational, something on that vehicle must have created the problem: “Something has held the starter motor in operation, an electrical current, so it could be an ignition switch failure. “On a smart charge system that can charge at variable voltages, the system is reliant on information coming from other sensors within the vehicle, so there can be a situation where an alternator appears to not be charging at the correct voltage or not charging at all – actually something else on the vehicle might be creating that situation.” Nick added: “Ultimately, the root cause needs resolving, rather than just swapping the part. To support the technician, Autoelectro places useful fitting and technical information into its product boxes, to ensure they’re equipped to diagnose the true problem.” For more information, visit:www.autoelectro.co.uk Hybridisation Commenting on the impact of hybridisation on ignition systems, Ron Merralls, Technical Department Assistant Manager at NGK Spark Plugs (UK) said: “The engine down- sizing that is possible, to take advantage of the hybrid powertrain, is leading to a more highly stressed engine and combustion designs. This, in turn, most often results in an increased reliance on precious metal spark plugs. Precious metal spark plugs have been the choice of most vehicle manufacturers to enable improved combustion and extended service life. Downsizing however, brings its own challenges. Although the precious metal iridium or platinum tipped plugs undoubtedly aid combustion efficiency, downsizing does not automatically lead to increased service life of components, including spark plugs. Spark plugs remain an important routine service item.” On Stop/Start systems, Ron said: “It is generally well known that spark plugs operate best within their self- cleaning temperature between 450°C and 870°C. Spark plugs are challenged outside of that range. Below 450°C, such as upon cold start or when the plugs’ firing end temperature drops due to the engine being in stop mode means that there are now a lot more opportunities for plugs to become fouled and misfire. More fire-up events create challenges for maintaining spark operating temperature/performance. For diesel engine glow plugs, the duty cycle events increase, because the glow system is activated more often, to help keep the combustion chamber at a constant temperature to promote better combustion and reduce smoke emissions.” New technology Looking ahead towards technology that will be coming our way soon, Ron said: “Particle control systems are likely to be introduced for gasoline (GPF) to meet emissions regulations in addition to the current diesel systems. With current DPF re-generation modes occurring with higher frequency during normal driving and even cold start operation, it places greater demand on ignition components.” en driv echnolog T y r As a leading OE supplier in Eu ignition solution is built on ov provides access to premium p training , OE-level diagnostic vehicles drive cleane , better delphiaftermarket.com DelphiTechnologies isabrandofBorgWarner Inc. rope, our full-service aftermarket er 100 years of OE expertise. It arts , market-leading vehicle cove s and technical support , making and further right through their lives rage , . Above: NGK Iridium spark plug