Quality is described as being in the "eyes of the beholder
" and is a key factor when it comes to remanufacturing a major unit, such as an engine or gearbox, back to OEM specification.
While quality can be subjective, in terms of how a product is supplied, its price and fitness for purpose, in engineering terms it is also objective and can be measured through the use of specific standards to ensure products are free from defects and are built consistently.
Although it is more economical to to source a remanufactured product, which can cost up to 40% less than brand-new, quality and adherence to industry standards also needs to be considered, so it’s important to ensure that workshops understand the key differences between remanufactured products and reconditioned or refurbished items. Remanufacturing an engine or component back to OEM standard is a complex process that demands significant capital investment in machines, tooling and skills, in addition to technical expertise and rigorous inspection procedures.
All remanufactured Ivor Searle engines are built to exceed the BS AU257:2002 Code of Practice. This standard sets out the difference between a quality remanufactured engine and a reconditioned unit. A remanufactured engine is one which has been returned to the manufacturer’s specification to ensure levels of performance and reliability, equivalent to the original engine. The standard fully details how petrol and diesel engines should be inspected and checked against OEM tolerances and dictates that key components, including piston assemblies, big and small end bearings, as well as bushes, gaskets, seals, timing chains and drive belts are completely renewed.
Ivor Searle takes the standard demanded by BS AU257:2002 a step further by combining it with a quality management system certified to ISO 9001:2015 which is externally assessed on a continuing basis. ISO 9001:2015 is based around eight principles of quality that provide a framework to ensure a philosophy of continuous improvement is maintained.
Only brand-new replacement parts sourced for their reliability and durability are used in the remanufacturing process, while operations, such as crack testing and machining components, are undertaken to ensure original performance is achieved with reliability. Ivor Searle also fully tests and inspects all engines at the final stage of the remanufacturing process.
As a result, garages purchasing a remanufactured engine from one of Ivor Searle's factor stockists can be confident that they are sourcing a unit that is built to the highest possible standard. In contrast, a reconditioned engine has been stripped or disassembled and cleaned and may, or may not, have had some damaged components replaced. Compare this to the remanufacturing process which aims to return a product to at least its original specification and performance with a warranty that is equivalent or better than that of its brand-new equivalent.
Ivor Searle offers an extensive all makes programme of remanufactured products for petrol and diesel cars and light commercial vehicles, with new applications being constantly added. To guarantee peace of mind, all Ivor Searle engines, cylinder heads and gearboxes are covered by a transferable 12-month unlimited mileage parts and labour warranty. We also provide free next day UK mainland delivery on stock items ordered before 3.30pm.
Filed under: Ivor Searle engines, Reman engines UK, Reman gearbox