Mechanics in the Drogheda area turned out in force for a recent Gates Technical Workshop. The training evening dealt with Synchronous Belt Drive Systems and was organised by Fyfes Motor Factors.

Technicians from 28 local garages attended on the evening. Andrew Vaux, a key member of Gates Technical Training and Support Team, was delighted with the response. He commented, "These events aim to raise awareness about good workshop practices, explain why it's essential to follow the manufacturers' recommended installation procedures and outlines the advantages to be gained from a preventive maintenance approach to drive system repairs. It's a rare opportunity for mechanics to discuss technical issues directly with a supplier.”

Motor factor-led, the Technical Workshop programme is an established and successful format that delivers training to more than 6,000 mechanics around Europe each year. In just under two hours, mechanics hear about general belt installation and maintenance issues, gain a better understanding of drive system problem diagnosis and learn to appreciate the differences between the causes of drive system problems and the symptoms they generate. There are also opportunities to look at specific engine drive system issues and the many changes to drive system technology that have been introduced over the last ten years.

Specific installation tool sets for individual SBDS drive systems have been introduced, new materials have been used in the belts themselves, while different drive systems installed on different models within the same range mean that mechanics can no longer assume themselves to be experienced in every aspect of drive system repair.

Gates district sales manager Bob McAvan says that in addition to the mechanics, motor factors benefit from the Technical Workshops, too. He commented, "They learn more about their customer's technical needs and about the practical benefits that arise as a result of selling more kits. There are fewer installation errors, and fewer administrative issues to deal with."

Gates expects to schedule some additional Technical Workshops later in the year. As well as training in SBDS, Gates Technical Workshops can also provide training in Auxiliary Belt Drive Systems (ABDS or accessory belts).