commitment to technical excellence sets us apart. Unlike the trend of batch testing, every part released by us undergoes two rounds of testing – first at the component level and then as a complete unit on OE-spec test equipment. This meticulous testing process ensures that our parts meet the highest standards before reaching the market. “We recognise this challenge and actively support garage technicians by providing part-specific technical bulletins. These offer guidance on common faults, best practices, and key indicators to look for in the old cores they remove from vehicles.” One cited example of Autoelectro testing, stripping down and investigating old cores to find common issues can be found on part number AEG1472 for the Ford Transit 2.0 diesel alternator. Harnek said: “Autoelectro recommends changing the belt and tensioner at the same time as replacing the alternator to avoid the same pulley issue happening again. Likewise, part number AEY2803 for the Chevrolet Captiva and Cruze/Vauxhall Antara 2.0-2.2 diesel starter motor was found to have a common fault where the wiring insulation on the vehicle was not correctly heat shrunk, which causes the B+ terminal on the solenoid to overheat and melt, leading to the premature failure of the starter motor. Harnek commented: “Inside every AEY2803 box supplied, Autoelectro provides a warning notice, advising the technician and showing images of what damage to the solenoid and terminals looks like, to avoid the same issue happening again. “ For more information, visit: www.autoelectro.co.uk Major component Moving over to glow plugs and their changing role, Hidria UK Sales Manager Clive Carter observed: “The function of the glow plug was originally to provide heat to assist ignition of the air/fuel mixture, particularly in cold conditions. “However, diesel systems have seen many changes since the introduction of IDI in the 1980s. Further developments included direct injection, high pressure common rail and complex after-treatment such as DPF, urea additives, AdBlue and SCR selective catalytic reduction, along with NOx traps to remove harmful nitrogen oxides. To support these systems, the glow plug has become a major component to assist clean and efficient combustion.” The wider role means glow plugs need attention: “Regular servicing is key to maintaining systems and the glow plug is no different.” Clive added: “When choosing a replacement glow plug, think Hidria. It is the largest original equipment glow plug supplier today in Europe and produces OE and aftermarket on the same production line, using the same materials and to the same specification. Hidria also offers a five-year warranty on aftermarket glow plugs.” For more information, visit: www.hidria.com www.aftermarketonline.net MARCH 2024 AFTERMARKET 41
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy MjQ0NzM=