ExEcutivE REPORt
‘‘ I
Trying to find one diagnostic tool that talks
to every make and model of machine is the ultimate goal for most
The TEXA system employs an intuitive interface for quick and easy fault-finding. ’’ ECUs – Lost in Translation? Diagnostic tools haven’t always kept up with the relentless pace of
technological progress. However, Jim Maccall appraises a new system that promises to make the task of fault-finding a whole lot easier.
t’s the call we dread – the hire controller’s having a lovely day, Bob the driver is off
sick so nobody is leaning on the counter moaning about roundabout design and a customer said thanks on Tuesday last week. Then, ‘hello, my machine has a flashing red spanner on the screen and it won’t rev up’ arghhhh! ‘No worries, one of our service team will talk you through the problem, I am sure it’s just a glitch’. 10 minutes go by incredibly slowly and the workshop foreman says he has to send out Big Steve to have a look. Steve used to fix things with his fine collection of hammers and spanners. Steve doesn’t like computers, he doesn’t understand them and therefore he doesn’t
trust them. Steve says FFS a lot. A month later the dealer invoice lands that wipes out a week’s rental income in one fell swoop.
Sound familiar? You only have to have a quick look on the various mechanic forums on the interweb to see a daily list of ‘I have this code, any clue??’ We are most certainly stuck in the middle of a technological transition…
The Road is Long
For cars and trucks, on-board diagnostics have been around since the late 60s. Law requires them to have standard protocols, and code readers start at £10. Alas, not so for plant.
Standardised OBD Connector on vehicles near the pedals
There is light at the end of the tunnel, though, and it’s LED powered. A small handful of manufacturers have jumped at the challenge of offering software, hardware and connectors to go in
between machines and the diagnostic suite.
Universal Appeal Trying to find one diagnostic tool that talks to every make and model of machine is the ultimate goal for most. Everything from the Stihl TS480i saw, the majority of powered access kit through to all plant with a requirement for Euro 5 emissions standards (Non-Road Mobile Machinery) now carry diagnostic and electronic service tools – it’s a whole new toolbox drawer full. Trucks and cars have progressed well, with Autel, Snap- On and others trying to get more useable data and information to help non-dealership mechanics get stuff fixed.
For plant, one big barrier is that machinery manufacturers have not had to comply with laws on standard protocols and connectors. To help, there are a couple of UK specialists that are supporting UK machine owners and mechanics with equipment along with advice and training.
18 Executive Hire News - May 2021
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