Imperial Engineering increases stock levels
With under six weeks before the Brexit transition period expires on 31st December, bus parts specialist, Imperial Engineering, has increased its stock levels by over 30%.
Following its assessment of the potential ramifications of a ‘no deal’ scenario, the Hertfordshire-based parts distribution business has implemented a ‘state of readiness’, to ensure that it can continue to support customers with their parts requirements over the coming months, in the event of consequential border delays.
John Dwight, Imperial’s Sales Director, commented:
“Due to the pandemic, 2020 has already been the most challenging year for the bus and coach industry, so we took the decision to increase our stockholding on a number of product lines in order to mitigate against risks to the supply chain, as well as potential tariffs.”
He continued:
“The absence of a free trade agreement would be a double whammy to our embattled sector, as it would undoubtedly mean price rises on imported parts. That’s why Imperial Engineering is taking the necessary steps to help customers and the wider industry to recover.”
“In a ‘normal’ year, the winter months are the most demanding for bus operators as temperatures drop. Harder climatic conditions mean that vehicles operate under harsher conditions, so certain part failures are more likely to occur, especially when it comes to the electrical system. “
The regular inspection of certain systems is mandatory for operators, including brakes, tyres and glazing but Imperial Engineering recommends additional checks are carried out on the electrical systems, especially the heater, lights and batteries, which will have extra demand during the winter months. It is also good practice to check the windscreen wiper mechanism, condition of the wiper blades and the washer jet system. There’s also more pressure on the air supply system during winter, so it’s critical to ensure that the air dryer assembly is functioning correctly, which will help protect the air valves downstream.
Keeping the fuel tanks as full as possible helps keep condensation from forming on the tank walls and reduces the risk of water contamination into the fuel system. Checking the thermal management systems for any leaks and checking that the antifreeze strength is correct are also important items to check, says Imperial.
Imperial Engineering is a primary distributor for Knorr-Bremse, Wabco, Haldex, Meritor, Bosch, TMD Friction, ZF, Dana and PSS products and is proud to have achieved both the ISO 9001:2015 certification for Quality Management Systems and Silver FORS Accreditation.
