Grange Travel has opened a new workshop that the Gravesend, Kent operator has fitted out with equipment from supplier Totalkare.
Products include an in-ground brake tester, a set of six cable-free T8DC mobile column lifts, a hydraulic press, a headlight tester, and eight axle stands. In addition to maintaining its own 60-strong fleet, Grange Travel looks after vehicles of other operators via its position as an agent for Daimler Buses.
The six T8DC column lifts have a combined lifting capacity of 45,000kg. They accompany an earlier set of six already on site. An inverted hydraulic cylinder lifting system requires single-phase power to charge and enables “a large number of lifting cycles” between charges.
They will work alongside the axle stands, which allow a single lift column to be removed for access to a wheel.
For the brake tester, an 18,000kg axle load is applicable and it can test any vehicle in the Grange Travel fleet. It comes with a DVSA-approved tablet interface that requires only one technician to complete the test. It, and all 12 mobile column lifts, are supported by a Totalkare service contract.
The headlight tester sits on rails for ease of movement. It has laser alignment, an LCD display, and a long battery life.
Use of the heavy-duty press gives Grange Travel the capability to perform a wide variety of maintenance and repair duties.
Adoption of the Totalkare equipment will help the operator to reduce outsourcing of maintenance. Managing Director Bryan Smith says that having lifting and testing products in-house is “a game-changer” for the business.
“Totalkare’s products and comprehensive service contract provide us with peace of mind, knowing that ours and our customers’ vehicles are in safe hands,” he adds.
Speaking about completion of the procurement, Totalkare UK Key Account Manager James Atkins says: “We are pleased that the installation of equipment for Grange Travel is already having a positive effect.
“The premium equipment is being supported by a Totalkare service contract to keep everything compliant and running smoothly.”