Gabriel brings bakkies into the fold
Gabriel, the premier shock absorber brand of JSE-listed Control Instruments-Automotive, has upgraded its range of passenger vehicle suspension testers to include vehicles with a maximum axle weight of 2,5 tonnes, which includes cars, bakkies, multi-purpose vehicles (MPVs or minivans) and sport utility vehicles (SUVs).
Gabriel states that its tester is different from similar competitive products in that the software is fully adapted to the South African market, incorporating the entire South African car parc. It also warns operators to check the vehicle’s tyre pressure as part of the test – a first for our country. Furthermore, the system provides comprehensive reports of the vehicle’s shock absorber status as well as recommendations on the required part number.
Sean Staley, divisional head of Control Instruments-Automotive – Drive Control, points out that Gabriel began investigating the suspension testing market more than three years ago, but was unable to find a solution that exactly fitted the South African environment.
“In 2011 we narrowed down our options to two international companies and solutions,” Staley adds. “After an extensive evaluation we selected one of the world’s most advanced systems. Over the past 12 months we have worked with local retail stores and overseas engineers to deliver an effective retail solution that includes customised software and reporting capabilities.”
He says that Gabriel’s aim is to make shock and suspension testing easy for its workshop and fitment centre clients. “It will provide a comprehensive and accurate alternative to the current equipment on the market that utilises the traditional ‘bounce’ test or testers, which are not suited to the local market,” Staley highlights.
Another upgrade is that the customer and fitment centre reports are now colour-coded to provide a graphic representation of the results.
“In addition, in what is believed to be a first, Gabriel has included its entire parts list for the South African car parc into the system’s database. The system then recommends the vehicle’s part number as well as alternate Gabriel part numbers. This, coupled with the quotation format, enables retail staff to easily quote on the correct part and help conclude the sale more quickly,” Staley concludes.