November 2019

NOVEMBER 2019 AFTERMARKET 39 www.aftermarketonline.net Below: New packaging from Delphi Technologies themselves; they can accelerate the wear of mating components, so are often a false economy.” Julian continued: “For Delphi Technologies, creating high-quality replacement parts includes meticulous testing and product validation processes, something lower-quality alternatives might not offer. The OE equivalent is analysed and reviewed, before 3D scanning and modelling systems collect data in the minutest detail, and Delphi Technologies’ re-engineering process can begin. Once designed, the new parts are tested to OE standards. “The tests we conduct are designed to replicate the exact loads that components would be exposed to in real-world conditions. For example, a link stabilizer undergoes push-pull fatigue tests to replicate the forces the rod will experience on the road. When testing a wishbone, we test in all three axes at the same time to reproduce all the possible stresses that could occur and ensure our replacement will perform just as well as the original.” To make life easier for parts managers, factors and technicians, Delphi supplies many parts with the necessary fitting accessories. “These kits increase both customer satisfaction and workshop profitability by ensuring that there is no confusion over what may or may not be needed for each maintenance job and reducing the chance of incorrectly ordering crucial parts. Even small fittings, such as nuts and bolts, are manufactured to the correct specifications for the application, so the original ones, which may be corroded or damaged, can be discarded. “By supplying the main part and fitting kit in the same box, we help workshops to offer a quick, reliable and professional service for the replacement of critical steering and suspension parts. As well as ensuring a best-practice, longer-lasting repair to OE standards, the tailor-made package offers greater garage efficiencies, since the individual components will not have to be identified and ordered separately.” Pragmatic Beyond the provision of physical parts, Delphi Technologies offers customers a wealth of experience, helping to educate the end-user and make decision-making easier. “The company’s technical hotline and support is dedicated to providing pragmatic answers to even the most demanding questions,” said Julian. “High quality parts deserve high quality packaging. During 2019 Delphi Technologies is rolling out vibrant new branding for its aftermarket products in a distinctive blue colour with stronger packaging and clearer labelling. The new box sizes are optimised to occupy minimum shelf space and, for added security against counterfeiting, a hologram is included in the label.” Control arms from Comline Control Arms CCA1288L and CCA2288R have been produced for the BMW X5 and X6 and are offered as part of the all-makes ‘Total Control’ steering and suspension range from Comline. The range is backed by a three-year 36,000- mile warranty. Comline’s steering and suspension range is made using strict quality control procedures. Each component is subjected to testing cycles which include checks for full tension, compression and hardness, weld penetration, life performance and corrosion resistance. www.comline.uk.com Above: Ball joint inspection