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2009-10-12 | 000-002-024 DE-EN
SCHAEFFLER AUTOMOTIVE AFTERMARKET OHG, PARIS/LANGEN

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket supplies essential special tools

Special tools are a must-have in every workshop. In many cases professional repair is unthinkable without special tools. Not to mention test devices required to assess the functional ability of certain components. What they have in common is that they help workshop mechanics perform repairs to a professional standard and thereby avoid customer complaints. As part of its service concept Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket therefore provides a complete range of special tools to its workshop and distribution partners.

Special tool case for self-adjusting clutch (SAC)
About 12 years ago LuK was the first manufacturer worldwide to debut with the self-adjusting clutch (SAC). Today, every second LuK clutch manufactured in Europe is an SAC. Since 2004 Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has been offering a special tool case which contains all the special tools required to replace an SAC. With the range of SAC applications continuously being expanded the contents of the tool case had to be modified. The new tool case has been available since March 2009 and supersedes the previous one.

Additions to new tool case include: one centering pin for SAC models where the diameter of the crankshaft bore (supporting the pilot bearing) is greater than the diameter of the clutch hub and for models without pilot bearing; one releasing tool for SAC models of the latest generation with locking element used on various VW, Audi, Seat and Skoda models; a fourth centering pin to complement the range of the three existing centering pins for SAC used on BMW models. The case also comes with a special tool for disassembly and installation of an SAC with six or eight bolt holes and a releasing tool for pre-tensioned clutches. The tools newly added to the case can also be purchased individually to complement the previous version.

Why use special tools for SAC installation?
An SAC must never be actuated without flywheel and clutch disc as this would distort the adjusting ring. The special tool allows for a counterforce-free bolt connection, thereby avoiding damage to the clutch cover during removal and installation and avoiding distortion of the adjusting ring.

Dual mass flywheel: Functional check while mounted
Formerly unthinkable, this is now possible thanks to an innovative LuK special tool which allows mechanics to check the basic functions of a dual mass flywheel (DMF) while the part is mounted to the car. The special tool measures rock and freeplay, which is the angle at which the primary and secondary flywheels can be rotated against each other before load is exerted on the arc spring. The test results are compared to the rated values of the corresponding DMF part number. Besides a visual inspection for grease egress, scoring, discolouration etc., which used to be the only option to assess the functional reliability of a DMF, the measurements of the LuK DMF special tool now provides hard facts for reliable damage assessment. As the DMF should be checked with every clutch replacement, the decision on whether or not the DMF needs to be replaced is now backed up by solid evidence. The basic question is: can the DMF last another clutch life cycle. More information on the DMF can be found in the special 27-page technical brochure which features a detailled description of the DMF functional principle and possible damage patterns, or on the DMF video, both available from Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket.

All-purpose INA tool case for belt drive component maintenance
Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket has developed a universally applicable tool kit for belt drive service and maintenance. The high-quality tools included in the kit cover older engine types as well as all current vehicle makes and models. Belt drive component repair requires utmost precision as it affects the engine timing. Even the tiniest inaccuracies can cause damage to individual components, front-end accessories or the engine itself.

Pictures, drawings and instructions highlight in detail how to assemble and apply each type of tool included in the maintenance kit. These are: toothed belt tension roller dowel pin, camshaft pulley holder, V-belt pulley holding tool, holding wrench universal set, camshaft pulley universal locking tool, alternator wrench, camshaft pulley extractor, belt pulley extractor set, crankshaft arresting pins and a flywheel locking pin.

INA toothed belt tension tester
The range of special tools offered by Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket also includes an INA test device to check for correct tension of the toothed belt. Excessive tension will cause increased wear to all timing drive components. Insufficient tension can cause skipping of teeth resulting in altered valve timing. Both can lead to engine failure. Automatic tensioners adjust belt tension automatically. Belt drive systems lacking this component require manual re-tensioning after each belt replacement or engine maintenance.

To control belt tension the test device is attached to the belt by two U-shaped jaws which slide underneath the installed belt. Using a knurled nut, the integrated sensing element is lowered onto the upper belt surface to measure belt tension. The result is then shown on the easily readable display. The mechanic now compares the measured value against the rated value and adjusts belt tension according to the required specification.

All special tools can be purchased via the Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket distribution partners.

Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket will be exhibiting at the Equip Auto 2009 in Hall 6 H 81. The handling of the above mentioned tools will also be demonstrated during live-workshop performances at the stand.

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