CVW finds out why Stagecoach Group recently selected Actia’s diagnostic software to support the maintenance of its nationwide fleet of buses and coaches.
Actia’s diagnostic capability to cover the vehicle’s body and chassis systems, Stagecoach Group, one of the UK’s largest bus and coach operators, selected the company’s diagnostic solutions for its fleet. Actia’s diagnostic tools enable the UK operator to diagnose and efficiently maintain its fleet of vehicles.
Carl Thornborrow, Engineering Director at Stagecoach North Scotland, says: “We rely on the Actia systems to diagnose faults detected through our proactive planned maintenance on a day-to-day basis. The system is easy to use; whether you are an experienced technician, or an apprentice, you can navigate it with ease.”
The three core diagnostic tools – Multi- AID, Multi-MUX, and Multi-DIAG – used by Stagecoach are said to provide complete solutions to cover all the vehicle’s body and chassis systems. From Actia’s own multiplex network, to engine, transmission, brakes and suspension control systems, a thorough maintenance and preventative solution is put in place as a result.
With its focus on pre-Euro 6 UK manufactured buses and coaches, Multi- AID offers extensive access to the Multi-BUS Multiplex electrical system to identify stored faults, view and control I/O status, adjust parameters, and download, configure and view network layouts.
Multi-MUX provides similar diagnosis functions by integrating with the next generation Acti-MUX electrical system. Recent developments to the software include the ability to obtain system updates direct from the OEM via the internet and cloud-based downloads.
The Multi-MUX diagnostic tool supports a range of vehicles and systems, including Optare and ADL Euro 6 vehicles running the Acti-MUX system, Cummins Engines via Cummins Insight and Voith Transmissions via Voith Diag.
Using a single communications interface and a suitable laptop or tablet PC, Multi-MUX can link with the vehicle’s major systems and removes the need for several ECU interfaces.
Created to complement Multi-AID/Multi-MUX, Actia’s Multi-DIAG Bus & Truck is a multi-make solution which allows more time-efficient fault diagnosis of the main vehicle system for all major truck, bus and coach manufacturers.
Multi-DIAG Bus & Truck can quickly and efficiently review the status and performance of the injection, ABS, EBS, EDS, gearbox, brakes, suspension, retarder, dashboard, airbag system and Adblue faults. Key service and repair functions include read/erase faults, actuator testing, parameter reading, ECU configuration, calibration and coding forinjectors, and electronic valves.
“Multi-DIAG interrogates the ECU and it guides the engineers to a system fault, clearing down any stored faults,” adds Mr. Thornborrow. “With the recent changes to DVSA roadside checks and MOT testing, the system is an essential tool for workshops dealing with a modern fleet of vehicles to ensure a safe, reliable journey. As we know: every journey counts.”
