BorgWarner launched its combined Smart IMS (integrated magnetic switch) plus integrated over crank protection (IOCP) on its Delco Remy 38MT+ and 39MT heavy-duty gear reduction starters and will said the combination will soon be available as a factory option on new truck orders from a major commercial vehicle manufacturer.

The company said this new and efficient combination for the original equipment commercial vehicle market reduces and prevents starter-related downtime for fleet owners and operators.

The technology also be retrofitted, BorgWarner said; the combined solution will be available in the aftermarket in the second quarter.

“Downtime is a major concern for fleet owners," said Randy Andis, director, commercial vehicle, PowerDrive Systems, BorgWarner. "The pairing of our Smart IMS and over-crank protection technology gives us the ability to address this industry-wide problem by reducing starter-related maintenance and protecting the starter from an early life failure, enhancing the durability and reliability of our starters, and ultimately maximizing uptime.”

BorgWarner said its IOCP – a built-in circuit breaker that protects the starter from thermal damage by monitoring the temperature and automatically resetting at a safe operating temperature as needed, while also eliminating wiring harnesses – has been in service for many years. The Smart IMS, introduced to the aftermarket in 2017, ensures the solenoid receives the maximum available voltage by reducing voltage drop, and features six electronic functions that protect the starter from potential damage caused by operator or system errors.

Pairing these two technologies delivers extra layers of protection across a wide range of starting conditions, said the company, by reducing damage due to excessive cranking, low battery voltage cranking issues, high circuit control resistance issues, starter click-no-crank, solenoid prolonged power, overruns, pinion and ring gear teeth damage, and more. It also encompasses driver/system protection features, such as time-limited crank, running engine lockout, and auto0disengage at engine start.

BorgWarner’s newest starters are covered by a three-year warranty coverage.