Don’t let customers be caught out this winter, Ring warns
As winter approaches, the industry needs to think about the winter products that will be needed more often, Ring Automotive warns.
Bulbs will be a popular item throughout winter and Ring says its range of more than 900 bulb types covers approximately 99 per cent of the vehicle car parc, meaning there is a bulb for almost every application on a car, motorbike or truck.
Dependent on the type of bulb a customer would prefer, Ring offers its Brighter range, such as Xenon 220, which as the name suggests, puts more light on the road for the driver. The Whiter bulbs, Xenon 5000, give a high spec look, to match the white light emitted by LED daytime running bulbs, which are road legal and require no wiring change.
Ring suggests technicians asking their customers if they want Brighter or Whiter bulbs, the workshop could increase its revenue from a €5 sale to a €30 sale.
Batteries
Batteries can be negatively impacted by the cold weather, as when the temperature drops to freezing, a battery can lose up to 35 per cent of its power, which is why it’s important for technicians to keep an eye on their customer’s batteries over winter and ensure they have the best tools to prevent the battery from failing.
Ring says its Smartcharge Pro 100A battery support unit (RSCP10024) is a 100A smart battery charger with multiple charge rate settings. A complete battery support unit, it is suitable for 12V and 24V vehicles with mixed battery types including Lithium and Start/Stop. Slimline and light, ideal for intensive use with fleets of mixed vehicles and within workshops for diagnostic and remapping purposes.
Using the power supply function, the unit can maintain a constant battery voltage level at both 12V and 24V for when appliances or programming and vehicle diagnostic equipment is connected and drawing power. A multi-chemistry and charging level selection allows the user to set the specific charge required for different battery types. Further, test functions provide battery and alternator diagnosis.
It has two dedicated charging curves, seven stage for Lithium batteries and nine stage for all other chemistries, optimising the battery performance and improving the ability to hold charge.
Alternatively Ring’s Jumpstart Pro 3000 (RJST3000) is a powerful, portable lithium jump starter designed for workshops, mobile mechanics and fleet operators who need reliable performance for a wide variety of vehicles.
The RJST3000 is 12V and 24V compatible and will jump start all petrol engines and up to 13L diesel engines, which makes it suitable for a wide range of vehicles, including heavy duty trucks and tractors.
The unit has been designed to not only be tough but simple to use, so jobs can be done quickly. The interface uses easy to navigate lights to signify the different modes and battery status. There is also a warning light that alerts the user if there is an issue with the connection. A solid light indicates reverse polarity protection and a flashing light for temperature protection. Auto voltage detection, ensures safe operation across different vehicle types.
The RJST3000 has a Boost function which revives completely flat batteries, reducing downtime for customers or fleets.
Tyres
Another important element for technicians to check is tyres. Maintaining the correct tyre pressure is essential, particularly during the winter months when road conditions can be more challenging. Regular tyre pressure checks can help improve safety, vehicle handling and fuel efficiency.
The Ring RAC830 Digital Tyre Inflator offers a quick and convenient solution for tyre maintenance. Designed for ease of use, it features a clear digital display for accurate pressure readings and inflates a standard car tyre in just a few minutes.
The RAC830 also includes an auto-stop function, allowing the user to set their desired pressure and let the inflator do the rest, helping to prevent over-inflation. Compact and portable, it is ideal for keeping in the workshop and ensuring tyres are always maintained at the correct pressure.