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08/08/2019

Misconception of a water pump weep hole chamber cap & an engine core plug

A water pump weep hole chamber cap and an engine core plug look very similar, yet they serve vastly different purposes. In this article, we will highlight their respective functions.

01/08/2019

A brand-new look for Gates packaging

We are proud to announce that all of our product lines have recently gotten a new look. Both our passenger car packaging and FleetRunner^™ (heavy-duty) packaging have been refreshed. Depending on the stock you still have, it may take a while before you get a real-life look at our new packages, but you can get a taste of them in this article, where we introduce the new look and feel. In addition, we give you an update on how to recognise authentic Gates products.

31/07/2019

The importance of positioning the automatic tensioner correctly

The automatic tensioner plays a crucial role in maximizing belt life, optimizing the operation of the drive, and simplifying the installation process. Yet in order to function properly, the tensioner has to be installed in exactly the right way – and that is sometimes harder than it may seem. By means of a few examples, we will highlight the importance of positioning the automatic tensioner correctly.

02/07/2019

The correct use of sonic belt tension tester STT-1

Proper belt tension is essential for optimum performance and reliability, both for timing and Micro-V^® belts. Some experienced mechanics are tempted to check belt tension by rule of thumb, yet Gates strongly discourages this practice and recommends using the sonic belt tension tester STT-1 for manual tensioners instead. After all, the correct amount of tension varies a lot from application to application, making it impossible to ‘feel’ whether it has indeed been reached. The STT-1 checks belt tension accurately every time, providing a quality standard for manual tensioners (note that the device cannot be applied to automatic tensioners).
Read on to find out how to use the STT-1 correctly!

04/06/2019

Introducing the Kit Finder tool in our online catalogue

When replacing a belt, you cannot expect the idlers and tensioners to last another duty cycle. The best way to prevent roadside breakdowns and costly repairs is to replace all components of the Belt Drive System at the same time by working with a complete kit. All of our kits are specifically composed for their applications and include one or more belts together with the matching metal parts. No idea which kit you need? Gates has got you covered! We’re the first supplier in the market to offer a Kit Finder tool in our online catalogue gatesautocat.com.

07/05/2019

Digital installation instructions for Gates PowerGrip Kits

Gates is widely known for its focus on continuous innovation. It is in this spirit that we have decided to replace the paper installation instructions for our PowerGrip^® Kits by easy-to-use and mobile-friendly digital installation instructions. In this article, we explain the benefits of these new installation instructions and elaborate on how to use them.

28/03/2019

The importance of respecting the water pump change interval

Every car has its own timing belt change interval. The exact number of kilometers after which an overhaul is required varies between 40,000 and 240,000 kilometers, depending on the engine type and/or the belt construction. Yet changing the belt does not suffice: we recommend replacing the water pump whenever you fit belt kits. This way of working is not only more efficient; it also prevents costly comebacks. Read on to discover the details about why replacing all parts of the accessory drive system (including the water pump) is crucial.

09/01/2019

A closer look at turbocharger hoses and their possible failures

Due to the drive to make cars more fuel-efficient, smaller and lighter-weight engines started to become commonplace in newer vehicles, with turbochargers used to compensate for the associated power loss. In fact, around 75% of new vehicles sold in Europe today are turbocharged. The turbocharger compresses air from the atmosphere and delivers it to the engine through a series of turbocharger hoses. In what follows, we will take a closer look at these hoses, which are increasingly in aftermarket demand as a wave of turbocharged vehicles leave the warranty period. We will also outline some possible failures and provide tips for replacement.

22/11/2018

Understanding modular coolant hose failure

Cooling systems have grown increasingly complex in recent years, as more and more vehicles became turbocharged or were equipped with battery packs that needed cooling. These days, many coolant hoses branch off to various components, and are typically outfitted with connectors and sensors. In this article, we’ll discuss the ways in which these modular hose assemblies, as they’re known, can fail.

30/08/2018

Timing belt change on a VAG 1.0 3-cylinder petrol engine

Engine technology is evolving rapidly, as manufacturers continue to improve their designs to meet increasing efficiency and performance demands. The recent VAG 1.0 3-cylinder petrol engine, with its non-round camshaft pulleys, is a case in point. Ensuring belt tension optimisation, these special pulleys do require a specific timing belt change procedure, which we will elaborate on below.

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