Key parts
Steering and suspension from First Line
Published: 11 September, 2014
The Key Parts steering and suspension range was introduced by First Line last September and now comprises almost 500 part numbers including wishbones, rack ends, tie rod ends, stabiliser links and ball joints. Popular applications include stabiliser links for Peugeot 206 and Vauxhall Vectra, Corsa and Saab 9-5, tie rod ends for Vauxhall Corsa and ball joints for Renault Megane II and Scenic 2003 onwards. The Key Parts range were introduced as a cost-effective repair option and come with a 12-month or 12,000 mile warranty from time of fitment.
- Approved parts
Steering and suspension parts are at the heart of what Optimal does and its programme includes more than 4,500 part numbers which can be found on TecDoc and MAM, with over 85% of part numbers available from UK stocks, the rest coming from its German warehouses. Every part of the front and rear suspension is available, from joints to tie rod assemblies, control arms and stabilisers. The firm is a TUV approved supplier, with its parts undergoing regular inspections throughout the entire manufacturing process. The firm continues to expand its product range and its next target for the steering and suspension range is over 5,000 different part numbers.
- Replace in pairs
To prevent compromising safety, TRW is promoting the message to replace shock absorbers in pairs. The firm conducted tests with a differing damping force on one shock, which showed a significant improvement in car performance when they were replaced in pairs rather than individually, especially when a vehicle is changing lanes or under emergency braking. The firm has been campaigning for years to have the shock absorber classified as a safety critical part and included in the annual roadworthiness tests. Belgium has adopted this stance already.
- Restricted flow will cause a whine
A power steering reservoir for the Chrysler Grand Voyager 3.3i 2001 to 2006 and Voyager 3.3i 2001 to 2004 is available from Blue Print. When this filter becomes contaminated and partially blocked, flow is restricted and this usually results in an abnormal whine from the power steering pump which tends to be worse from a cold start-up and at slow speeds. As long as the pump hasn't been starved of fluid for too long, the problem can be fixed with a replacement reservoir which has a new filter and the addition ofsome fresh fluid. Before fitting this direct replacement part, the firm advises that you drain as much of the original fluid from the system as possible before filling with fluid of the correct specification.
- Better than OE?
The experts at Meyle have re-engineered control arm bushings for a wide range of makes and models and the latest offering benefits the Mazda 3 and 5 series models. The rugged full rubber mount is designed to outlast the hydro bushing on the OE version and it comes with a four-year warranty. Technical director Sven Nielsen says: "Unlike their OE counterparts, the MEYLE bushings are made from steel and high-grade natural rubber, dispensing with all fluid", Nielsen continues. "The MEYLE-HD bushing is therefore immune to premature failure caused by fluid leakage. To ensure the part offers identical damping capabilities, the forces acting on the components have been calculated using the finite element method (FEM), allowing the MEYLE bushing to provide similar dynamic driving properties as the OE hydro bushing. "
- New year boost
The biggest range extension to date has begun on FAI's steering and suspension programme, with over 350 new part numbers coming and a catalogue to support them. 50 part numbers kick start the expansion covering many of the new models on the road including the Ford Focus III, Nissan Micra and Alfa Giulietta. A large wall poster can help diagnose and sort out steering and suspension faults. These are available through selected distributors who take part in the FAI S&S programme.
