Power transmission specialist Gates has shown a new generation of technicians the way to better Synchronous Drive Belt System installation with a special technical workshop delivered at Northern Ireland’s Southern Regional College.

Gates Technical Support and Training Specialist Andrew Vaux and District Sales Manager Bob McAvan were invited to the Hamiltonsbawn Road Campus to discuss timing belt installation issues and highlight some basic diagnostic techniques to motor vehicle students who are at various stages of training and development.

The workshop was another example of how the manufacturer of belts and tensioners for OE and aftermarket focuses on technical training for both students and qualified automotive technicians right across Ireland and the UK. The company sees apprentices and student technicians especially important as these are the technicians and garage proprietors of the future.

Andrew Vaux commented, “We are very happy to visit colleges and training providers to give them information and help to develop the appropriate drive belt installation skills they will need. Failure to replace a timing belt correctly can cause severe engine damage. Experienced mechanics may have many years of experience, but technology has changed along with the techniques required to install them. This makes it essential that they develop a diagnostic approach and use the appropriate tools for the job.”