MONTH 2017 AFTERMARKET 5 APRIL 2023 AFTERMARKET 49 shock is then transferred to suspension components such as strut mounts, wishbones, control arms, link rods and ball joints. Damage to these parts can lead to wheel alignment issues affecting the geometry of the car and cause serious steering problems. To remedy the problem, FAI has developed a series of components that make sure the fitter has all the elements to turn a nightmare job into a quick and easy one.” Best practice Every contact point with a vehicle can be converted into a steering and suspension opportunity according to First Line Global Sales Director Kevin Neaverson: “Whenever a vehicle enters the workshop, it is always best practice and typically part of every service, to carry out a visual inspection of the vehicle, which includes underneath checks of the steering and suspension, as wear and tear from poor road conditions can affect many related parts. Checking and replacing, if necessary, components, such as suspension arms and ball joints, can not only restore the vehicle’s handling and comfort, but also reduce stress on other parts of the system. “Likewise, ensuring that the steering alignment is checked and adjusted if required, after tyre changes, is recommended, especially if the old tyres showed uneven wear. During this process, the rack ends and tie rod ends should be inspected for wear and replaced as required, as this may be the initial cause of the uneven tyre wear in the first place. Not only does this provide an opportunity to upsell, but, with steering and suspension parts being safety-critical and the continuous growth of the ageing vehicle parc, First Line is perfectly positioned to provide a premium quality aftermarket offering for more cars than ever before.” Up to date 2022 was the 30th anniversary of the First Line steering and suspension range, but according to Kevin, the company is not resting on its laurels: “First Line is constantly reviewing and adding to the range, ensuring that the programme is up to date with all the latest technologies. “With OEMs focused on reducing the weight of vehicles and therefore its individual components, there has been an increase in the use of materials such as aluminium and composite plastics. Many multi-link suspension systems now incorporate aluminium control arms and newer design suspension bushings, stabiliser links and top strut mountings now include composite plastics, instead of traditional metal components. This provides not only a lighter component, but one that is easier to manufacture, as well as being less susceptible to wear and corrosion. A specific example of this new component design is the hybrid style link, which is a stabiliser link that comprises a steel bar with composite plastic ball joint housings. The new design can weigh up to 200g less than the original, and as the part is used on both sides of the vehicle it decreases the vehicle’s weight by almost half a kg, making it easy to see why VMs are putting such an emphasis on new light-weight technology. This is highlighted by the fact that these new design links are fitted as standard on all BMW i3 models. “With these new developments, it is likely that workshops will start to see components that perform a function that they are familiar with, but look different in design, so it’s imperative that they keep abreast of these changes and are aware of the differences these components may have. Another development is that many vehicles are now fitted with ADAS, which controls many safety functions, such as ESC, ABS, and lane departure warning systems. Many manufacturers recommend that ADAS technology is tested and reset after mechanical alignment of the steering and suspension system. “Likewise, it’s particularly important with safety critical steering and suspension items to understand that traditionally it may have been possible to re-use a nut or bolt, but nowadays as component designs change, so do the relevant fittings and fixings. Many are of a specific design and incorporate unique locking features and most are single use, so it’s crucial that new fittings are used each time the relevant part is replaced.” Effectively and efficiently The company also looks to make things as simple as possible for technicians, as Kevin explained: “First Line and Borg & Beck products also provide repairers with the opportunity to save both time and money by including, where necessary, the fittings required to complete the job effectively and efficiently. With the ‘Includes Fittings’ logo from First Line and Borg & Beck, technicians can be assured that the necessary fittings have been supplied with the component, so they can be sure that a smooth and efficient installation can be carried out. There may be times when technicians only need the nuts and bolts, so as well as supplying the necessary fittings as standard, the nuts and bolts are available separately as Fitting Kits, therefore catering for any scenario. “What’s more, all components are developed and tested to OE specifications and tolerances, put through comprehensive durability testing of up to 1,000,000 cycles, and where required, E-Coated (Cataphoresis) for maximum protection and longevity, which is why both First Line and Borg & Beck products are supplied with a two-year, 24,000mile warranty, against manufacturing defects, for total peace of mind.” Kevin added: “All new references are released only when available in stock, and are provided with a complete, Below: TCT33 lower ball joint from Delphi Technologies The sheer volume of potholes afflicting UK roads at present will be giving steering and suspension systems quite the pounding ”
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=