Aftermarket March 2023

MARCH 2023 AFTERMARKET 47 box. On vehicles with individual coils, although it may be tempting to replace the one failed coil, it is worth replacing the set as it is not unusual for another to follow.” He added: “In addition, NGK also has a range of ignition lead sets comprised of copper core, carbon and inductive resistor types, all manufactured to OE standards.” For more information, visit: www.ngkntk.com/uk Stop/Start Stop/Start has been adopted by vehicle manufacturers to meet ever-tightening emissions legislation. Julian Goulding, Marketing Manager Northern Europe, Delphi Technologies Aftermarket observed: “Bringing limited development costs and modest additional expense on the production line, Stop/Start is a technology adaptation that’s inexpensive which does deliver significant benefits. Typically, fuel consumption and emissions are reduced by between 4% and 10%. Stop/Start cuts the engine on conventional ICE vehicles when the car is stationary. In hybrid vehicles, the engine may also be stopped when the car is coasting at low speed, decelerating or descending. These gains in efficiency however come at the cost of extra strain on ignition components thanks to the repeated high frequency Stop/Start cycles.” According to Julian, this makes choosing high-quality replacement parts more important than ever: “Today’s ignition systems are far removed from those in cars 20 years ago and they have to work much harder with Stop/Start enabled. It’s a huge change from single start journeys into multiple high frequency Stop/Start cycle trips that might take place in cold weather with low engine temperatures. Manufacturers have developed the vehicle to handle this but issues can arise when cars grow older and components inevitably fail. Garages need to guide owners towards replacement options that will perform to the manufacturer’s original specifications. When it comes to replacing failed ignition parts only the best will do. Otherwise, replacement could be a costly repeat occurrence.” With the labour involved in replacing ignition coils possibly adding up to several hours seeking small savings on the component is a false economy, as Julian noted: “When installing ignition parts on a Stop/Start vehicle, it’s essential to use quality OE-specification parts produced by a reputable brand to ensure a long-lasting replacement. Delphi is an OE-supplier that manufactures more than 14 million coils per year. We pass our expertise onto the aftermarket via an extensive portfolio of quality ignition components that are the same specification as the original. We research and develop new products continually to offer the best coverage we can.” Julian added: “We recommend more frequent checks on Stop/Start cars too. A lot of newer cars marry Stop/Start to smaller engines to generate further efficiency gains. Turbocharging is often used too. This can lead to significant heat build-up in the engine bay, affecting how ignition parts perform. Carrying out a regular visual inspection can highlight issues before they cause a breakdown.” Sensible When it comes to starter motors and alternators, Autoelectro UK Sales Manager Nick Hood said there are always tell-tale signs if a product has been made on the cheap: “In an alternator, for example, stator windings can be reduced, which will likely produce the output required when analysed on a test bed; However, because the windings are shorter, when applied to real-world driving conditions in the middle of winter, it’s unlikely to maintain that output over a long drive, when on-board electricals and accessories are in full use. Likewise, in the starter motor, the windings can be shortened, while quality can be reduced on the gearing and the bearings too. The combination of these factors, particularly in a winter period when the starter motor is likely to be put under maximum strain, can shorten the life of the part.” Nick added: “Sticking to a premium product is sensible. Technicians should explain why a premium starter motor or alternator, such as one produced by Autoelectro, may be perceived as expensive but is excellent value for money in the long-term. At Autoelectro, we have full control over our manufacturing process – from traceability, remanufacturing and testing in-house – so we know that we produce parts that meet or exceed OE specification.” For more information, visit: www.autoelectro.co.uk Maximise Meanwhile, SMP Europe is offering a range of ignition leads across its Intermotor, Lucas, Lemark, High Volt and Electrospark brands. Martin Turner, Marketing Director at SMP Europe commented: “SMP Europe’s range of ignition lead sets contain over 875 references, making it the most comprehensive range of OE fit sets available. Manufactured at our facility in Poland, the majority of sets use 7mm or 8mm full silicone ad copper core cable. However, the range also includes 5mm cable OE sets to cover the Japanese and Korean vehicle parc. SMP Europe’s cable is manufactured with double silicone protection to maximise radio suppression, resistance to temperature, water and oil degradation and chemical attack. All terminals are machine crimped to ensure strong and reliable connections over a long service life. Spark plug boots and terminal covers are also moulded from silicone to give a watertight seal.” Martin added: “All lead sets are extensively tested, including ‘pull off’ tests, both hot and cold temperature testing, checks on all terminal connections, and a high voltage saline solution immersion test to check for current seepage.” For more information, visit: www.smpeurope.com Above: Wheel bearing kits from FAI Automotive