May 2018

MAY 2018 AFTERMARKET 5 www.aftermarketonline.net Launch UK is reminding technicians of the importance of carrying out regular fluid and filter changes at 75,000 miles, or 50,000 miles for vehicles used in arduous conditions. Dave Richards, Launch UK managing director commented: “Some transmissions are electronically controlled to optimise shift quality and feel, with transmission fluid playing a major part and indeed now being regarded as a component of the transmission. Clutch slip controlled by solenoids allows the shift to complete jerk free in milliseconds, made possible using sophisticated ‘additive packs’ within the base oil, the contents of which are often a closely guarded secret. Therefore, it is best to use the original manufacturers fluid, or one specifically approved by them. “Over time the fluid and additives deteriorate, causing carefully engineered friction coefficients and viscosity to alter. This can lead to harsh engagements and rough or slipping shifts as the critical, controlled clutch slip no longer responds as designed. Ultimately, premature and expensive transmission failure is likely.” The only practical way to carry out this service and ensure a 99% fluid exchange is by using dedicated equipment such as Launch UK’s CAT501S according to Dave: “Using the CAT501S along with a simple transmission maintenance schedule will keep optimum transmission performance, and help protect from failure.” IGA Publishes report investigating garage work providers The Independent Garage Association (IGA) has published a study of consumer facing websites that provide work to independent garages for a fee. The 2018 Garage Work Provider Report investigates the wide variety of business models and contractual terms and conditions that consumer work provider websites use. Stuart James, IGA Director commented: “We know that many independent garages perceive the costs of services provided by these work providers as a form of marketing outlay and understand the reasons why they use them. The aim of this report is to provide sufficient information for garage businesses to make an informed decision on which specific provider is best for their business. “The IGA will continue to listen to its members and survey the marketplace to ensure that garage businesses are not subject to any detriment as a result of working with consumer work providers. Stuart added: “The IGA firmly believes independent garage businesses should continue to engage directly with customers and promote their own brand and image.” The report is available to download from the IGA website: www.independentgarageassocia tion.co.uk Stay lubricated: Reminder on regular fluid and filter changes Pagid doubles size of tech team Pagid, in partnership with Euro Car Parts (ECP), has doubled the size of its specialist technical services team for the UK aftermarket with plans for further expansion later this year. With the three new arrivals, the team now includes six field-based, braking specialists, who are all fully-qualified and experienced mechanics. Each team member covers a region of the UK and Ireland and provides expert braking support for ECP’s aftermarket customers, including visiting workshops, helping with any technical issues and advising on best practice fitment The team also supports ECP branches and visits workshop customers regarding all- things-braking, as well as explaining new product developments and new Pagid market releases. As well as visiting workshops, the team also delivers the IMI-accredited Pagid Professional Academy Brake Fitment course, which is available through the ECP Euro Academy Training Programme. Phil Woodcock, UK Key Account Manager for Pagid, said: “Pagid is committed to delivering first class product quality and a first rate service to the UK aftermarket. The expansion of our team of technical specialists further illustrates this commitment.”