Auto Electrical and Lighting: Keeping on top of electrical and lighting nuances

POCKET PERFORMER

Narva’s Premium Penlight now offers two-inone functionality

Narva has upgraded its premium ALS rechargeable penlight (P/No. 71440), stating that it is now more versatile and functional thanks to a secondary torch function, charging via USB-C port, and a magnetic pen clip. The pocket-sized penlight is ideal for working in engine bays and tight spaces and offers up to four hours of bright light output and fast charges in just two to three hours. A high-efficiency COB LED produces 150 lumens of broad light for illuminating areas, whilst the new separate torch LED at the base of the unit will give a more directional spot beam for tighter spaces and distance. Two brightness modes allow users to choose between performance and longevity, with a brightness memory function storing the last option used.

A new USB-C charging port and supplied cable allow the penlight to be recharged virtually anywhere, be it via USB car charger, wall socket charger or computer. The clothing pocket clip now features an integrated magnet so the penlight can be used hands-free or stored on a magnetic surface for easy reach when needed. “There are a lot of cheap penlights out there, but the Narva ALS unit is a premium quality workshop tool,” Narva Marketing Manager, Jake Smith, said. “What you get from our penlight and the rest of our Narva ALS range is lasting durability, advanced functionality and a crisp light output. You can feel the quality when you hold this light, and you’ll see it in the beam patterns.” Narva’s new ALS rechargeable penlight is available from automotive and transport retailers nationwide at a recommended retail price of approximately $65.00. For more information, visit www.narva.com.au

TRAIN UP FOR HYBRID AND ELECTRIC VEHICLES

With CoolDrive

CoolDrive Auto Parts’ commitment to automotive workshops continues, with the release of its 2022 schedule of Hybrid and Electric Vehicle Technical Training courses. Conducted in partnership with Bosch, the singleday CoolDrive courses are being offered in Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide and Perth on multiple dates throughout the year. “Our hybrid and electric vehicle technical training courses were launched in 2019 and in that time have proven incredibly popular with technicians,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager, David Haley, said. “The number of hybrid and electric vehicles on our roads is steadily increasing, which in turn is calling for specialised knowledge and training for workshops to ensure appropriate and safe, servicing and repair of these vehicles. “These technical courses provide in-depth knowledge and training to technicians with two topics now on offer – an overview of hybrid and electric vehicle systems, or electronic battery management.” The ‘Hybrid & Electric Vehicle Systems’ course covers design principles and components, hybrid and electric vehicle structures, battery technology, drivelines and e-machines, as well as vehicle and personal safety precautions. The ‘Electronic Battery Management’ will give technicians insight into vehicle electrical charging system fundamentals, alternator types and evolution, power management strategies, battery sensing systems, and much more. These training courses complement CoolDrive’s range of specialised hybrid and electric vehicle spare parts, tools, equipment and workshop apparel. Over 180 related spare parts and 25 different tools and chargers are stocked by CoolDrive including the Bosch FSA 050 Tester for insulation testing, and Chargemate and Wallbox smart chargers. Available also is the full Tolsen range of insulated tools, as well as Salisbury safety gear, including Arc Flash Face Shield and Helmet, as well as insulated gloves. CoolDrive says it is also proud to stock the Jaylec range of safety products, including gloves, insulated mats, signage and first aid supplies. Further information on CoolDrive’s range of hybrid and electric vehicle equipment and the technical training courses is available at www.cooldrive.com.au

GET A JUMP

With the latest jump starter from Kincrome

The Kincrome Power Pak Plus II Multi-Function Jump Starter (KP1406) is very similar to the Kincrome Power Pak II, however Kincrome says the Plus makes it “bigger and better.” Holding almost twice as much power as the base Power Pak II, Kincrome says its Power Pak Plus II allows you to jump start larger vehicles, power your devices for longer, or give a significantly larger number of jump starts between recharges. Kincrome says the Power Pak Plus features the same great accessories allowing the user to charge their electronic devices and now comes with a heavy-duty protective rubber cover. The Power Pak Plus II is capable of jump starting up to V8 vehicles, both petrol and diesel (with a maximum cold crank amp output of 600CCA) and includes an LED light and an SOS safety illumination feature. The Kincrome Power Pak Plus II also features “Intelli-check” jumper leads, which provide additional protection for both your vehicle’s electronic components and the jump-starter itself. The Kincrome Power Pak is available to purchase online from www.tools.com

BULLETPROOF SERIES TRAILER LAMPS

The latest range of trailer lamps from LED Autolamps for 2022

LED Autolamps, a brand name known and trusted for over 20 years, says it is proud to offer its latest series of trailer lamps, featuring three universal sizes and created with a new design, look and appeal and all with superior durability. LED Autolamps says the first thing you notice about the Bulletproof series is its sleek, uniquely styled blackened no lens design, offering all required functions. The 210 Boat trailer lamps include Stop/Tail/ Indicator and a handy inbuilt Reflex Reflector with a concealed inbuilt licence plate lamp. The 211 and the 212 series trailer lamps offer Stop/Tail/ Indicator and an inbuilt Reflex Reflector. Extreme environments demand a product to be manufactured to withstand these situations. LED Autolamps specifically designed the Bulletproof series with this in mind. “We have included super-tough polycarbonate construction but, more importantly, sealed the LEDs and circuitry using a specially formulated flexible black resin,” LED Autolamps National Sales Manager, Ashley Piper, said. Ashley commented that the 210, 211, and 212 Bulletproof series are purpose-built and manufactured to the highest standards, and said you can rest assured they are up to any task. “The high impact plastics with solid-state circuitry ensures shock and vibration resistance. They deliver a super bright even spread output that not only looks distinctive but is also UV, Acidic/ alkaline and saltwater resistant and exceeds all required Australian Road standards with ECE approvals,” Ashley said. “We are so confident in the specially formulated resin coupled with a no lens design and extreme testing to IP68 rating that we offer a 10-year warranty for peace of mind.” The Bulletproof range consists of three sizes; firstly, the 210 series boat trailer lamps with an overall size of 210mm x 96mm x 28mm which LED Autolamps says are the perfect size to suit most boat trailers. Secondly, there is the small square 211 series that has an overall size of 100mm x 100mm x 20mm, and thirdly the Rectangular shaped 212 Series measuring 160mm x 90mm x 20mm is a perfect size to suit most small to medium trailers. Stainless steel fittings with tinned copper wiring encased in sheathing are included for extra protection for constant environmental exposure and long-term durability. Electrically they run at 12-24 Volt and have been made to ECE R10 EMC standards for electrical interference. LED Autolamps explains that its entire operation is certified to ISO9001:2015, the internationally recognised Quality Management Standard and its main production facility is certified to IATF16949:2016 standards. The 210 series is available in a twin retail blister pack with left and right-hand side lamps (Part Number 210BARLP2) and bulk for OEM manufacturers. In addition, LED Autolamps has also made available a 10-metre lamp and cable kit (Part no. 210BARLP2-10M) which contains the left and right-hand side lamps and enough hardwire cable for trailers up to 10 metres in length. The 211 and the 212 are both available in a twin retail blister pack with left and right-hand side lamps and single bulk for OEM manufacturers. For more information, visit www.ledautolamps.com for your local distributor or call LED Autolamps on 03 9466 7075.

TRAILER VISION MODULAR POWER CONNECTOR COVERS

Now available, with more products coming soon

Trailer Vision has just released all new modular 50 Amp power connector covers designed for compatibility with most common trailer connector types. The TV-14665 can be mounted to most seven or twelve pin trailer sockets including the Trailer Vision range of sockets, including the heavy duty seven pin and 12 pin microswitch styles. Trailer Vision says this not only makes it very easy to install in applications where space is tight, the innovative design also will allow you to significantly save on stock by having one cover that suits all. You can mix and match with the seven or 12 pin sockets of your choice for almost unlimited options, it explains. The TV-14665 also features a unique patented locking system to secure mating connectors which is exclusive to the market, says Trailer Vision, which states it is compatible with genuine 50 Amp Anderson connectors and similar styles. Also just released is the new 50 Amp Volt Meter Covers. Representing true innovation, Trailer Vision says the TVNV328993-50 features a LED Voltmeter in the top so you can measure the voltage instantly going through the 50A connector. The large display is easy to see, and the rugged cover protects the connector inside, making it the most versatile Anderson style voltage cover available, says Trailer Vision. Applications include Anderson style extension cables, solar panels and virtually anywhere a 50A Anderson or similar style connector is used. It can also be used on its own as a tester for checking the voltage of Anderson connectors on towbars. Trailer Vision states that once again, it uses the patented cover and locking system. All of these new products are now available, and Trailer Vision says you should look out for more coming soon. You can now see the full range with the all-new website at www.trailervision.com.au, email mail@trailervision.com.au or call 02 66452722 for more information.

THE POWER OF TWO SCAN TOOLS IN THE WORKSHOP

Snap-on recommends using two scan tools for optimum success

All repair shops look for different ways to maximise workflow through their doors, and Snap-on says some have come to the realisation that this can be achieved by using two quality scan tools – one for the heavy lifting or in-depth diagnostic jobs, and a lighter simpler version for code scanning, service light resets and functional tests. Snap-on says its Zeus diagnostic and information platform working alongside its Ethos Edge is the perfect combination of quality and coverage needed to maintain technician productivity and workflow through the course of a busy day. Zeus – the big brother of vehicle diagnostics

The first step in any diagnostic procedure is to use the scanner function to check for pending, current or historic DTCs. Once extracted, the Zeus will save all diagnostic reports and send them to the ALTUS CLOUD. They can even be emailed directly to the customer or a third-party repairer. Intelligent Diagnostics provide access to the latest code-specific data, information, and tests, all obtained from actual repair orders and industry professionals and may also include safety recalls and technical service bulletins (TSBs). Smart Data can then be selected where code specific PID lists are generated – saving you the hassle of scrolling through countless data lines looking for that inconsistency in live values. Real Fixes and Trouble-shooter shows codespecific procedures, tests, and tips, which have been gathered from actual shop repair orders and industry professionals. If the intelligent diagnostic information guides the technician to view a sensor waveform, Snap-on says they can simply activate the four-channel lab scope for some serious diagnostic power. Ethos Edge – simple, light, and powerful

While the heavy diagnostic work is under way on one side of the shop, Snap-on says you can rest easy knowing that the three booked service jobs have been completed with service light resets carried out using the Ethos Edge. One very popular function of the Ethos is its extremely fast boot time. By simply plugging the tool into the vehicle’s DLC the tool powers up ready to use within a few seconds. Technicians can then easily navigate the menu functions to wind back those calliper pistons when replacing the rear pads on the last service job for the day. Snap-on says you should not let the straightforward, uncomplicated operation fool you, stating that the Ethos Edge is a full-blown bidirectional scan tool punching above its class. To keep your workshop operations cost effective, Snap-on recommends streamlining both vehicle movements and repairs by using the combined diagnostic efficiency and fundamental ability of the Snap-on Zeus diagnostic and Information platform and Ethos Edge. To arrange a demonstration, see your local Snap-on franchisee and visit www.snapontools.com.au to see the complete family of diagnostics by Snap-on.

MEETING THE NEEDS OF THE MODERN WORKSHOP

The demands of modern vehicles mean lead-acid batteries are being used under more demanding conditions than ever before

As a result, battery care is a fast-growing issue, particularly as life expectancy drops rapidly due to inadequate maintenance. In fact, CTEK says research shows that as many as 50 percent of vehicles entering workshops in the UK had a battery that needed attention, with similar statistics anticipated in Australia. The high-power demands of modern vehicles and the drain from parasitic loads, such as tracking devices and alarms, means that a battery can potentially become flat in a matter of days. What’s more, by making sure that a vehicle battery is tested when it first enters the workshop, and supported during any diagnostic procedures, workshops can also avoid frustrating and misleading ‘ghost-faults.’ A ghost fault, or ghost code, is a fault that your diagnostic tool detects for one component, that has actually arisen from another. CTEK says the correct diagnostic equipment is key to solving vehicle issues quickly and efficiently, all while ensuring the battery is protected. It states that the CTEK PRO60 is an innovative and highly efficient 60A battery charger and power supply that’s designed to meet the demands of the modern workshop. With its cutting-edge design, advanced technology and state of the art features, CTEK says it is the perfect solution for comprehensive battery charging, maintenance and support. The CTEK PRO60 restores charge and reconditions batteries using a patented multi step charging process. It is compatible with all types of 12V battery, including normal wet/flooded, Ca/Ca and Lithium (LiFePO4), as well as AGM and EFB Stop/ Start batteries. The PRO60’s ‘adaptive charging’ mode automatically detects the appropriate settings for the battery and applies the optimum settings for the fastest charge. It has been designed to be user friendly with just four buttons and a clear, easy to read LCD display. Further, CTEK explains that the PRO60 is also the perfect stable power supply, with 12.6-14.8V available in selectable 0.1V increments, stating this ensures that no damage can occur to sensitive vehicle electronics. The CTEK PRO60 is available from Repco/NAPA Auto Parts. For more information, visit www.ctek.com/au

VISIT US AT STAND J02

POWERING WINNING PERFORMANCES

DENSO has a proud racing history that has delivered winning performances around the globe

DENSO says its experience as an original equipment supplier to the world’s major car manufacturers ensures its aftermarket product range is at the forefront of technology, designed with precision and manufactured to exacting standards. “All of our products are subjected to rigorous safety and performance testing. Because failure is not an option,” DENSO Automotive Systems Australia Spark Plug Product Manager, Mitchell Sanders, said. This core belief has manifested winning performances on racetracks, drag strips, superspeedways, and on challenging rally stages around the globe. “As a company, we believe that there is no better way to prove the quality, reliability and performance of our products than to test their limits in the heat of battle,” Mitchell said. DENSO has taken all lessons learned on the track and has applied them to the design and development of its elite Iridium Racing Spark Plug range. “When it comes to racing, we understand that every performance advantage counts. So, if you’re hunting for more power and torque, then you’ll find everything you need wrapped up in our range of elite Iridium Racing Spark Plugs,” Mitchell said. DENSO’s Iridium Racing Spark Plugs feature a 0.4mm Iridium-Rhodium alloy centre electrode that requires less voltage to fire and increases firing performance, mated to a 100 percent pure Platinum 0.8mm ground electrode that reduces the risk of melting the plug during harsh racing conditions. DENSO says the combination increases engine efficiency, reduces misfires and delivers superior performance under hard acceleration. “Our patented 0.4mm diameter centre electrode produces the hottest, most concentrated spark with the lowest voltage for superior performance. “But that’s not the only patented technology that’s a feature of our Iridium Racing Spark range,” Mitchell said. All DENSO Iridium Racing Sparks also feature the unique, innovative and patented Spark Cleaning Pocket technology that discharges and burns off carbon deposits, restoring electrical resistance and are manufactured using DENSO’s patented 360-degree laser welding process that ensures exceptional bonding and structural strength. Building on a solid base of proprietary technology, DENSO Iridium Racing Sparks also features strengthened insulators developed specifically to withstand racing environments, are finished with a burnished nickel plating to deliver a high level of corrosion resistance and include a built-in, highly reliable Monolithic-type resistor to block noise that may affect electronic devices.

NEW FROM HELLA

Black Magic Lightbars and Mini Lightbars are now available

Designed and developed by the technical experts at HELLA, the new Black Magic range of Lightbars reportedly offer an “almost mythical” combination of intense illumination, exceptional efficiency, compact dimensions and discreet styling. Fully blacked out (including mounting brackets) and featuring a slim, edge-less design, Black Magic Lightbars offer a modern and stealthy look. Yet despite their discreet appearances, they provide an incredibly powerful light output of up to 15,000 lumen for maximum visibility in off-road situations. Their innovative edge-less design prevents surface accumulation of dust and moisture, enabling Black Magic Lightbars to achieve IP 68, IP 69K ingress protection rating. The advanced electronics continually monitor thermal load. The integrated thermal sensor allows the lightbars to automatically adjust their output to prevent overheating or LED failure in warmer temperatures, whilst increasing light output when the ambient temperature is low, for optimum performance in all conditions. Single light bars are available in five sizes, from 20” to 50” wide, as well as 6” mini light bars, ensuring compatibility with a wide range of vehicle models whilst also enabling a variety of mounting options. A extra-long cable (2m) is supplied with most versions in the range. The Mini Lightbar comes as a Floor or Spot light and can be upright or pendant mounted. While smaller in size, the Black Magic Mini Lightbars are instantly recognisable by the full “Every spark plug in the range also comes with a silicone coating on the insulator to repel moisture and carbon to prevent fouling,” Mitchell said. DENSO states that this commitment to manufacturing excellence has provided DENSO with a reputation for reliable, quality components, which in turn offers tremendous long-term value to their trade and end-user customers. “DENSO offers customers the most advanced spark plugs on the market and coverage for most makes and models,” Mitchell said. “To reap the reward, use DENSO IRIDIUM RACING and experience a ride like never before.” To learn more about the extensive range of DENSO Spark Plugs, ignition components, alternators, starter motors, and automotive air-conditioning products, visit DENSO at Stand N04 at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo or find your closest stockist on the DENSO website. For more information, visit www.denso.com.au

blackout appearance and sleek design that is shared with the full size lightbar range. HELLA says the Black Magic Mini Lightbars are indispensable where a larger lightbar cannot physically fit and where extra lighting is required to provide complete illumination around the vehicle and to suit driver preferences. The Black Magic range of Lightbars is available now. For further technical information and to view the product range, ask your HELLA Australia Account Manager, call 1800 061 729 or email info.au@hella.com For more from HELLA, visit www.hella.com

NEW FROM BIG RED GEAR

Big Red Gear has launched a new driving light range and website

Originally conceived in 2016 to provide buyers with great quality LED automotive lighting at an affordable price point, Big Red Gear says it has recently expanded its product line-up, while also providing consumers with the ability to order direct via a new website and on-line shop. Big Red Gear promises cost effectiveness, tough construction and a ‘no BS’ approach to its lighting products, stating that the brand’s latest adventure-focused range has received significant power upgrades over previous offerings. Within Big Red’s driving light range are nine-inch, seven-inch and five-inch models, priced per single lamp at $149, $99 and $69 respectively. Despite the attractive price point, the lights make use of high output 5W Osram LEDs which are commonly found in more expensive driving lights. The lights also feature precisely engineered ‘parabola optics’, which Big Read Gear says help to create enormous volumes of 5700°k white light – around 15,000 raw lumens and one lux at 921m from a pair of Big Red’s flagship nine-inch lights. To ensure longevity in tough Australian conditions, the new lights come with heavy-duty stainless steel mounting brackets, a two-position, prewired DT connector/lead, and feature 3mm thick polycarbonate lens, a rubber dampening system, IP68 protection, a clear cover, distribution plate and mounting pad. Big Red’s matching light bar range also benefits from Osram LEDs to produce large volumes of light, and can be fitted as standalone auxiliary lighting or to complement Big Red driving lights, with equally affordable options. The ‘Black Stealth’ slimline designs incorporate tough aluminium housing and polycarbonate lens, are sealed to IP67 and come with low-profile side mounting brackets and stainless steel mounting hardware. Wiring harnesses and sliding brackets are available for purchase as accessories. Big Red Gear Marketing Manager, Jake Smith, said the Big Red range was about providing quality lighting that was accessible to everyone. “With Big Red, the fun doesn’t have to stop when the sun goes down, and the range proves that you don’t have to spend a fortune to get some awesome lighting gear,” Jake said. Jake also emphasised the importance of quality to the brand, which has its own lighting test facility located in Knoxfield, Melbourne, which helped contribute to the development of the new lights. “We torture our lights. We put them through hell in the lab, and then we put them through hell out there from Birdsville the back of Bourke. We make sure they can do what you want them to,” Jake said. For more information, visit the new Big Red Gear website – which is currently offering free shipping on orders over $100 – at www.bigredgear.com.au

MILFORD ULT1MATE ELECTRONIC CODING SYSTEM

Milford says this new system represents the next generation in towbar coding

Renowned for producing its world-class manufactured Towbars and Cargo Barriers from its location in Adelaide, South Australia, Milford designs, tests, produces and distributes a range of Towbars to suit most vehicle applications. Milford also catalogues a complete range of application specific, plug-and-play trailer wiring harness kits. Advances in vehicle safety systems and drive train technologies have progressed significantly in recent years with most vehicles now requiring electronic ‘re-coding’ to operate safely and to improve the vehicle’s performance when towing. Fortunately, Milford says the new Milford Ult1Mate Electronic Coding System can perform these vital re-coding requirements and is recommended to all automotive service centres and workshops, vehicle accessory fitters including 4WD specialty stores, mobile technicians and mobile accessory installers who are fitting towbars. The system includes a portable coding handset which easily connects to the vehicle OBD II port 108 via the supplied OBD II Male to 15 Pin DB15 Female connecting cable and a PC based support suite which backs up the handset with regular data updates and new vehicle applications. The handset features a high contrast OLED display, easy to navigate user menu and requires no WIFI or internet connection to operate. It is IP rated and made from sturdy, workshop grade materials. Milford says the PC based Application/User interface is intuitive and easy to use and further supported by Milford’s “legendary” customer service support program which includes video format operating instructions and user guides, print format operating instruction and user guides via download and its 1800 MILFORD Technical Support Hotline. Boasting more than 400 individual vehicle applications and regular vehicle updates, the Ultimate Electronic Coding System enables the operator to perform guided or manual vehicle coding changes to Trailer Stability, Sway Mitigation (VSC/ESC) programs, Powertrain Control Module (PCM), Body Control Module (BCM) enhancements and Advanced Driver Assistance system adaptions such as Rear Park Assist, Cross Traffic Alert, Blind Spot Detection, Lane Change Assist and Adaptive Cruise Control. Additionally, Dashboard notifications, displays and alerts can also be updated to reflect the coding changes made. It is available Australia wide and is ready for immediate delivery. For more information, contact Milford on www.milford.one or 1800 MILFORD.

WIRE UP

With Hulk 4X4’s new Control Box

Hulk 4X4 is one of the fastest growing players in the Australian off-road and 4WD market, with a massive range of the latest hard-wearing innovative gear. CoolDrive Auto Parts’ own brand recently welcomed a Six Way 12/24V DC Control Box to the fold, further delivering on its mission to supply the best products to the off-road community. The HU6750B makes it easy for owners to wire up accessories for their vehicles, caravans or camper trailers quickly and safely, with everything needed housed within one lightweight nylon box. Included within the control box are six 20amp rocker switches, three accessory power sockets, a Quickcharge QC3 dual USB socket, two Anderson Style 50amp plugs (input and output) and a DC voltmeter – with switch sticker kits to easily identify each switch.

Hulk 4x4 says what really sets this unit apart in the market is the industry leading Quickcharge QC3 dual USB socket, with its three amps of power capable of charging items significantly faster than standard USB sockets. The weatherproof six way fuse box comes prewired with all mounting hardware included for ease of installation. Capable of charging accessories such as mobile phones, tablets, GPS units, CB radios and powering fridges, lights and other 12V devices, the Hulk 4X4 Control Box is said to be an essential unit for any outback adventurer. The entire Hulk 4X4 product range has been designed for premium performance in Australia’s unique conditions. The all-encompassing range includes lifting and recovery equipment, aftermarket parts, 4WD accessories and safety kits, and brake upgrades, as well as accessories to make the most out of touring and camping. For more information or to find your nearest stockist, visit www.hulk4X4.com.au

BEAT BACK THE DARKNESS

Piranha Off Road releases its own brand of LED Driving Lights into the Aussie market

Driving light technology has changed markedly over the years – do you remember when HID lights were all the rage? Piranha had the CAT Series back then, but now with advances in LED chips and performance characteristics of reflectors, getting a driving light to light up the night is easier than ever before. Piranha says the question discerning buyers need to ask themselves these days is: what makes Piranha’s new LED driving lights equal to, or better than other brands on the market? For starters, Piranha says its ethos of ‘rugged and reliable’ holds true with these lights. It explains they are built tough with die-cast aluminium housings, OSRAM chips, excellent reflector design and high-impact sleek rimless design polycarbonate lenses with black powder coated stainless steel mounting brackets for that stealth look. Piranha’s new driving lights also feature a cool light ring, which can be used as a daytime running light and adds to the overall visual impact of the light. Piranha says it is not just about how good these lights look; stating it is also what goes into them that make them special. These lights suit 12- or 24-volt vehicles, with the thermal management system providing maximum light whilst protecting the unit from overheating, while EMC/EMI suppression means no radio or other electrical interference will impact the driving experience. With 5700 kelvin light temperature mimicking daylight brightness, the light is easy on the eyes for long night driving and provides more than enough light to go the distance. These tough lights come with an IP67 waterproof rating and Deutsch wiring connectors as standard, making them submersible to one metre for 30 minutes which Piranha says is awesome for serious water crossings and other fun night time off-roading. There are two nine-inch (228mm) lights available, a spread beam driving light and a pencil beam spot light and both are high-powered. The driving light provides over 460 metres at one Lux, while the spot light covers 900 metres at one Lux so a driving/spot combo produces some serious light on the road, says Piranha. The lights are sold in mix and match kits, or individually so you can bias your purchase to maximum distance or serious spread. Pricing starts at just $295 per light, and comes with a full five-year warranty. For those who like to fit their own gear there is a special light loom LIDL1-3P available and the lights come with a ‘pig tail’ lead for the customer to self-fit to their own loom. For more information, contact the team at Piranha Off Road Products on 03 9762 1200 or visit www.piranhaoffroad.com.au

HAS FUEL RAIL PRESSURE LET YOU DOWN?

The fuel rail pressure sensor (FRPS) is a key component on any direct injection engine

This sensor is responsible for signalling the correct rail values to the vehicle’s engine control module (ECM) to maintain pressure for a given operating condition. The ECM is then able to accurately make adjustments to the fuel delivery, fuel injector pulse width and injection timing, to maintain peak performance while maintaining economical operation. When diagnosing, if all checks prove the sensor is at fault, there is no longer a requirement to replace the entire fuel rail assembly as required by most OE manufacturers. In most cases this would require the replacement of all single use injector pipes as well. GOSS says its alternative means you can just replace a faulty pressure sensor without the need for also changing ancillary components. This option not only saves the customer money due to unwarranted parts replacement, but also saves the technician valuable time – meaning the vehicle can be back on the road sooner. While diagnosing, keep in mind fuel pressure is controlled by a pressure regulator valve (PRV) – sometimes called a suction control valve (SCV), and in most cases is mounted on the return side of the high pressure pump. Feedback from the FRPS is also used by the ECM to operate a duty cycle controlled solenoid which leaks off fuel – enabling a reduction in rail pressure. A fault in this vital signalling and control system may cause over or under fuelling, poor running, or even a no start situation. The symptoms may include one or more of the following Diagnostic Trouble Codes: • P0087 - Fuel rail/system pressure too low • P0191 - Fuel rail pressure sensor circuit range/ performance • P0193 - The ECM has detected that the fuel pressure is not within desired range • P0194 - Fuel rail pressure sensor circuit intermittent/erratic For vehicles presenting with a no start situation or fuel pressure related codes, it is advisable to check the vehicle for possible causes which may include: • Low or no fuel • Faulty low pressure fuel pump • Faulty direct injection/high pressure pump • Fuel rail pressure sensor wiring is open or shorted • Fuel rail pressure sensor circuit poor electrical connection Stocking a comprehensive range of fuel rail pressure sensors, low pressure fuel pumps and also direct injection high pressure pumps, GOSS – vehicle mechatronics says it offers the aftermarket a true genuine alternative when searching for quality replacement parts. For your nearest stockist, visit www.goss.com.au

LIGHT UP THE DARK

With the Roadvision Stealth Series

Roadvision says it is delivering a premium quality range of LED Bar and Driving lights to the automotive aftermarket with its new Roadvision Stealth Series. The Roadvision Stealth Series range of LED Bar and Driving Lights feature a sleek and modern appearance, with all products specifically designed to provide different combinations of lighting distance or intensity to suit specific vehicle requirements and applications. Featuring premium quality Osram LED lights, each component in the Roadvision Stealth Series range has been manufactured to deliver high thermal management technology enhanced performance. All products in the range can also withstand the harshest operating conditions thanks to each model’s tough yet lightweight aluminium housing and polycarbonate lenses. Roadvision says its Stealth Series of LED Bar and Driving Lights combine modern design technology with maximum performance and practicality. Roadvision LED Driving Lights are available in seven-inch and nine-inch diameters, featuring a bezel-less halo design with black mounting hardware contributing to the range’s stealth appearance. Further, the quality of the Roadvision Stealth Series Driving Lights range is supported by an “industry leading” seven-year warranty. Roadvision says its Stealth Series Light Bar range takes this impressive LED based form of extra automotive lighting to the next level with smoked look lenses and blacked out mounting to provide a low-profile stealth appearance. A series of models with differing performance characteristics are available in this premium quality Light Bar range which is also supported by a seven-year warranty. For long range output, the Roadvision Stealth Slimline S40 is a super-compact single row Light Bar series designed with extended beam penetration and lower short-range intensity, making them perfect for highway driving. The Roadvision Stealth 52 Series is a compact single row Light Bar series designed with high intensity light output while still achieving mid to long range beam penetration. This makes them ideal for vehicles that travel on windier roads and bush tracks where maximum visibility and light intensity is required. The Roadvision S70 Series has been designed to provide the best of both worlds, maximum intensity and long-range beam penetration. This range is perfect for the serious off-road enthusiast, professional off-road racer or for the enthusiast who is seeking the very best of the best. Roadvision Stealth Series Light Bars are available in single and dual row formats from seven-inch to 52-inch in length. The S52 and S70 models include an adjustable mounting system that allows multiple height settings using rubber cam isolators. Designed with slots, each slot can be top, centre or bottom mounted to allow for precise positioning. Perfect for 4WD enthusiasts and rural utility vehicle owners, Roadvision says its new Stealth Series LED range represents the next step in modern and high tech and supremely effective aftermarket based automotive lighting. The Roadvision Stealth range is available from BaxtersMTQ, Autobarn, AutoPro, Opposite Lock and independent auto electrical workshops. To find your nearest stockist, visit www.roadvision.com.au

REMOTE KING DELIVERS UP-SELL OPPORTUNITIES

Making keys is now easier than ever before

Why don’t auto electricians, mechanics or tyre stores do replacement keys? Remote King says the answer is ‘now they do, or if they don’t, they should be.’ When a customer walks into your shop, the first thing that they hand you is the keys to their car and this is generally where the first problem begins, says Remote King. “The customer may say: my remote doesn’t work, the key shell is broken or please don’t lose it as I don’t have a spare,” Remote King Managing Director, Ian Wood, said. “Here’s your first service driven up sell of the day!” With changes to technology, cutting your keys takes just a push of a button and Remote King says its fully automated key cutting machines make key cutting “child’s play.” Remote King has been supplying the locksmith, key cutting and hardware industry with products, training and support for more than 15 years, supplying a range of keys, remotes, replacement key shells and programming equipment. “My job is to see where or if a product fits in a marketplace,” Ian said. “More recently we’ve seen an influx of mechanics and auto electricians providing this service to their customers, with some now becoming big players in the key/remote space. “With the evolution of fully automatic key cutting machines with built in touch screens or smart phone pairing, it is now as simple as pushing two buttons, duplicate and cut. “If that is not simple enough, Remote King has added YouTube training videos, universal remotes/ transponders and chip cloners to now simplify even the more advanced key cloning systems. “It is not very often a new and unique service can be offered within your workshop without the requirement for additional training or staff. It is a job business owners are often giving to the apprentice to complete.” For more information, visit www.remoteking.com.au