NOVEMBER 2019
LOOKING AFTER YOUR CUSTOMERS’ AIR CONDITIONING NEEDS
ALL THE LATEST IN DIESEL PARTS
UNCOLLECTED VEHICLES CREATING HAVOC AT AUTOMOTIVE WORKSHOPS
ABOUT THE COVER Celebrating its 50th anniversary this year is Aunger, the iconic name in Australian automotive parts and accessories. Thanks to CoolDrive Auto Parts, this Aussie Legend is being rejuvenated for a new generation.
REGULAR DEPARTMENTS AAAA Report ......................................... 4 Calendar................................................ 5 New Members........................................ 5 News..................................................... 6 Products.............................................. 26 Inside Business.................................. 104
HR Matters........................................ 105 Consumer Law.................................... 106 Inside Inventory.................................. 107 PRTC................................................ 108 4WD.................................................. 110
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KEEPING YOU INFORMED A busy November for Capricorn.................................................................................... 6 Hall of Fame honour for Ron Pedder............................................................................. 7 SEMA Show delights .................................................................................................. 8 Australia’s ongoing love affair with the Ute.................................................................. 10 Industry gets behind Formula SAE-A.......................................................................... 13 NAPA Auto Parts launches on the East Coast.............................................................. 14 Burson Auto Parts managers step up on the GC........................................................... 16 Uncollected vehicles creating havoc at automotive workshops....................................... 18
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FEATURES Cover Story: Aussie icon Aunger celebrates 50 years..................................................... 20 R&D: High Performance Diesel - Making the most of it.................................................. 22 2019 Innovation Awards: 4WD..................................................................................... 74 Member Feature: Schaeffler Australia - Innovative, versatile and tailor-made.................... 78 Diesel: All the latest in diesel parts............................................................................. 80 Air Conditioning: Looking after your customers’ air conditioning needs............................ 88 Future Auto Innovations: High time for the Bloody Volvo Driver...................................... 100 Trade Talk: Driving FMP Bendix forward.................................................................... 102 Industry Awareness: Poor promos = poor industry........................................................ 112
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Publisher Cameron McLachlan for The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association ABN 23 002 271 454
CAB Audited
Suite 16, Building 3, 195 Wellington Road, Clayton VIC 3168, Australia Phone: 03 9545 3333 Fax: 03 9545 3355 Email: info@aaaa.com.au Website: www.aaaa.com.au
EDITOR Allan Edwards
EDITORIAL Tel 61 3 9372 9125
PRODUCTION MANAGER Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121
Official publication of the AAAA
ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333
PUBLISHER Cameron McLachlan
All material appearing in Australian Automotive Aftermarket magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without prior written consent. Contribution: Freelance contribution and submissions are welcomed by this magazine. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and transparencies. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the AAAA. All statements made, although based on information believed to be reliable and accurate, cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accepted for error or omission. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.
AAAA NEWS
MANDATORY DATA SHARING TO BECOME LAW In a landmark moment for the Australian automotive repair and service industry It is with great pleasure that I share the news that the Australian Government will shortly introduce a mandatory data sharing law into Parliament. This is arguably one of the most significant moments in the long and proud history of the service and repair industry in this country. The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) alongside the independent service and repair industry has been fighting for this moment for over 10 years so to hear the words coming from the Assistant Treasurer’s mouth was almost surreal. The distinction of a ‘law’ versus a ‘code’ is important. The law will be Australia-wide and be binding on all car companies selling vehicles in Australia, eliminating any ambiguity by providing a clear set of rules that everyone must abide by. This legislation will ensure independent workshops have access to all of the vehicle service and repair information they need, at a fair price. This law will provide a level playing field in the sector and allow consumers to have their vehicle safely repaired by the repairer of their choice. Ultimately, the law will ensure fair competition for small businesses and consumers. This milestone is the culmination of the passion and hard work of a large group of people who believed in the cause and were prepared to go above and beyond to achieve this outcome. We also could not have done this without our members, large and small. They came to us with their concerns, put competitive rivalries aside and fought alongside us to have the law changed for their customers, their businesses and the wider industry. Our Board members, current and past have provided the vision and determination to ensure the AAAA had the resources and clear direction to continue our fight and I thank every one of those board members for their contributions.
The announcement is also a huge moment for the team at the AAAA who have worked tirelessly to push for Government action to address this important competition issue. The journey has been long and arduous. We have worked with MPs on all sides of politics and dealt with a revolving door of Ministers during this unprecedented period of political instability. We have personally met with over 75 Federal MPs, facilitated hundreds of workshop visits by MPs all around the country and had countless early morning and late-night discussions with Ministers and other industry stakeholders. I’d like to personally thank the Assistant Treasurer Hon Michael Sukkar for his leadership on this issue and commitment to introduce a mandatory data sharing law that will benefit small businesses in the automotive service industry as well as every Australian car owner. In addition to pushing for mandatory data sharing, our Choice of Repairer campaign has the objective of increasing community awareness around consumers’ right to not only choose their repairer, but also know their new car warranty and servicing rights. This has been an issue tackled industry wide and I would like to acknowledge automotive industry associations, Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA), Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), Victorian Automobile Chamber of Commerce (VACC), Australian Automobile Association (AAA), and the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) for their contributions. Although this is fantastic news, there is still work to be done. The wording of the law must reflect the intent of the law and ensure that car manufacturers are not able to wriggle though any loopholes that would prevent or restrict consumer choice and ultimately harm competition. This includes a fair pricing structure.
The timelines for the introduction of the legislation are not set, but what I can say is that we are confident of significant progress on an exposure draft by early next year and will be pushing as hard as we can from our end to have this law signed off and in place sooner rather than later. Although this announcement on mandatory data sharing has stolen the spotlight, we have also recently held our 39th Annual General Meeting, announcing our Board for 2019 -20/21 which you can read more about on page 5 of this magazine. Uncollected vehicles at mechanical workshops and outdated uncollected goods laws is another large industry issue receiving little attention, so please read our story on page 18 on what is sadly a common, frustrating and costly occurrence. We are also welcoming feedback from the industry. I’d also like to acknowledge the overwhelmingly positive feedback we have received on our new AAAA logo – we are extremely happy with our fresh new look. Finally, our members continue to report that the free AAAA Industry Legal Hotline (1300 369 703) and Employer Assist HR/IR Hotline (1300 735 306) are proving to be an invaluable service for those business, customer or employee issues that inevitably pop up from time to time. Simply quote your member number at the time of calling. As your industry body, we are here for you, so let us know how we can help your business or provide advice on broader industry issues by calling us on 03 9545 3333 or emailing info@aaaa.com.au
GRAHAM SCUDAMORE-SMITH Chairman 4
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer
AAAA NEWS
NEW MEMBERS Dynamic Suspensions 4032 Pacific Highway LOGANHOLME QLD 4129 Ph: 0448 973 660 E: jimpenmanagencies@gmail.com
OS Imports Pty Ltd 28 Dilkera Street BALMORAL QLD 4171 Ph: 0437 126 853 E: trentmcmahon@gmail.com
Hardy Spicer 17-31 Discovery Road DANDENONG SOUTH VIC 3175 Ph: 03 9794 1990 E: nick.costa@hardyspicer.com.au
TMW QLD 6 Rooksby Street GLADSTONE QLD 4680 Ph: 07 4972 9887 E: admin@tmwqld.com.au
CALENDAR 2019 Automechanika Shanghai National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 3 – 6 December 2019 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
Midland Tune and Service Centre 24 Elgee Road BELLEVUE WA 6056 Ph: 0429 403 410 E: eighty2frogs@hotmail.com
Performance Racing Industry Trade Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 12 – 14 December 2019 www.performanceracing.com
2020
INTRODUCING YOUR NEW AAAA BOARD DIRECTORS FOR 2019 – 2021/22
Taipei AMPA Teipei Nangang Exhibitor Center 15 – 18 April 2020 www.taipeiampa.com.tw/
The AAAA held its 39th Annual General Meeting on the 14th of October in Melbourne The Annual General Meeting is a critical event for the Association where the AAAA reviews its current position, overall strategy and formally announces the results of its Board Election.
“They will join Nikki Gerling, Janelle Gonzalez and Wayne Bryant who were not up for the election this year and so will also continue their terms on the Board.
“One of the signs of a healthy association is competition for spots on its board and this year we had 13 nominations for the eight vacant positions from an outstanding field of industry candidates,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.
“Unfortunately in any election some people miss out and we would like to take this opportunity to thank to Russell Avis, Dale Brittain and Ryan Davis for their nominations.
Automechanika Dubai Dubai International Convention and Exhibition Centre 7 - 9 June 2020 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com Autocare 2020 Brisbane Exhibition & Conventions Centre 19 – 20 June 2020 www.autocare.org.au Automechanika Frankfurt Frankfurt AM Main 8 – 12 September 2020 automechanika.messefrankfurt.com
“We would also like to recognise and thank Rob Cameron, Peter Rogers, Guy Nicholls and Adam Pay for their outstanding contribution to the AAAA Board during a period of great change and growth. Your vision and leadership has been an inspiration to us all.
“A warm welcome goes to our three newly elected Board Members: Sean Buckley from Ultra Tune, Don Cormack from ADRAD and Craig Baills from Highfields Mechanical. We look forward to their new and positive perspectives as we move forward through exciting, yet challenging industry times. “We’re sure you’ll join us in wishing the new Board well as they help set the future direction “We also would like to welcome back returning of the AAAA and ensure that we deliver new Board Members Graham Scudamore-Smith, Mark activities and services that are valued by you.” Pedder, Craig Magill, Darren Robinson and John Benson. For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au
AAPEX Sands Expo, Las Vegas, NV 3 – 5 November 2020 aapexshow.com SEMA Las Vegas Convention Center 3 – 6 November 2020 semashow.com
AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN
DEPUTY CHAIRMAN
Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd Ph: 07 3892 9000
Mark Pedder (VIC) Pedders Suspension Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9706 3500 COMMITTEE
Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer
Craig Baills (QLD), Highfields Mechanical Ph: 07 4696 7116
Sean Buckley (VIC), Ultra Tune Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9815 9200
Janelle Gonzalez (NSW), Blue Toro Pty Ltd Ph: 1300 258 386
John Benson (VIC), Davies, Craig Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9369 1234
Don Cormack (SA), ADRAD Pty Ltd 08 8243 9888
Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555
Wayne Bryant (VIC), Repco Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9566 5444
Nikki Gerling (VIC), Robert Bosch (Australia) Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9541 5555
Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 061 729
Graham Scudamore-Smith Chairman
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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NEWS
A BUSY NOVEMBER FOR CAPRICORN In this column, Capricorn Society Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, updates us on all things Capricorn Capricorn Gala Dinners and Tradeshows are currently in full swing with events taking place across Australia and New Zealand until the end of November. It’s been a real pleasure to catch up with so many Members and Preferred Suppliers throughout Australia and New Zealand, to hear more about their businesses and how Capricorn is supporting their continued growth. The events themselves are a great opportunity for workshops, suppliers and all others connected to the automotive repair industry, to come together and make lasting connections. The fact that it’s a great night out with outstanding food and entertainment doesn’t hurt either. I would like to thank all of our Members who have helped raise money and awareness for prostate cancer as part of this year’s “Capricorn Cares” campaign. Inspired by one of our Members who is currently battling the disease, Capricorn Members have been kind enough to donate almost $6,000 to the Prostate Cancer Foundations of Australia and New Zealand. But more important than raising money is getting checked. All it takes is a simple PSA blood test that, when taken regularly, can be critical in catching the cancer before it spreads. Far too many men are being lost before their time due to the disease, so I encourage all men in the automotive community to get checked. Remember it’s not just a “men’s disease”, it is a “family’s disease” affecting the families, friends and loved ones of those diagnosed, too. While we’re talking about protecting ourselves, our thoughts go out to those workshops and communities affected by the devasting bushfires in QLD, NSW and across the country. These fires are occurring much earlier than the “normal” bushfire season due, in part, to the unseasonal dry weather, causing drought-like conditions throughout much of the region. For any Members or non-members concerned about the risk of fire, our Capricorn Risk Account Managers are available to help assess their options for protection. To make an appointment you can contact us on 1800 007 022 or visit www.capricornrisk.com. For more information on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop 6
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
URGENT NEW RECALL FOR BMW VEHICLES CONTAINING FAULTY TAKATA AIRBAGS The airbags are not part of the current Takata airbag compulsory recall Transport safety authorities in Australia, the US and Japan have identified a different type of Takata airbag that poses a critical risk of death or serious injury to vehicle occupants, prompting an urgent recall of around 12,000 BMW vehicles which may still be in use on Australian roads. On the 7th of November BMW in Australia began a voluntary recall of BMW E46 3 Series cars produced between November 1997 and June 2000, following safety authorities’ recent identification of a pattern of abnormal airbag deployments in Australia, Japan and the US. If a vehicle with an affected airbag is involved in a collision, the airbag inflator could rupture, causing sharp metal fragments to enter the vehicle cabin at high speed and potentially kill or injure vehicle occupants. The ACCC and the Department of Infrastructure, Transport, Cities and Regional Development are working with police and other authorities to understand the facts regarding two recent suspected misdeployments of these inflators in Australia, including a death and a serious injury. Owners of affected vehicles should stop driving their vehicle immediately and urgently contact their local BMW dealership or call BMW Australia’s Takata Hotline directly on 1800 243 675 to organise their free vehicle inspection. Vehicles will be either towed to the place of inspection or a mobile technician will come to inspect the vehicle at the consumer’s home or the vehicle’s location. If the vehicle does contain an affected airbag, BMW will offer to arrange a loan or hire car or reimbursement for alternative transportation costs until parts are available for airbag replacement, or until other arrangements can be made. Alternatively, the consumer may discuss the vehicle being purchased by BMW. The airbags are Takata NADI (non-azide driver inflator) type 5AT airbags and are not part of the current Takata airbag compulsory recall.
ACCC Deputy Chair, Delia Rickard
“Because of the critical level of risk, the ACCC urges people to stop driving their vehicle immediately and to contact BMW to arrange to have their vehicle inspected as soon as possible,” ACCC Deputy Chair, Delia Rickard, said. “BMW will arrange to tow your vehicle to repair facilities for inspection, or send a mobile technician out to your premises or vehicle’s location to inspect the vehicle. “If your vehicle has been fitted with one of these dangerous airbags, BMW will arrange a loan or hire car or reimbursement for alternative transportation costs until airbag replacement parts are available or until other arrangements are made. You may also wish to discuss the vehicle being purchased back by BMW.” The model numbers of cars known to contain these airbags include: Model Body Type 316i Sedan 318i Sedan 320i Sedan 323i Sedan 325i (2 vehicles) Sedan 328i Sedan 330i (1 Vehicle) Sedan 318Ci Coupe 320Ci Coupe 323Ci Coupe 328Ci Coupe 330Ci (1 vehicle) Coupe Consumers who are unsure of whether they are affected by this recall can use the BMW VIN look-up tool at www.recall.bmw.com.au Further information for consumers is available at www.productsafety.gov.au/airbags
NEWS
HALL OF FAME HONOUR FOR RON PEDDER The Franchise Council Of Australia has inducted the Chairman of Pedders Suspension and Brakes to its Franchise Hall Of Fame Ron Pedder has left a significant mark on the Australian business landscape across more than five decades in business. As Chairman of Pedders Suspension and Brakes, his key achievements include establishing a widespread network of Australian franchises and dealers, developing a thriving export business and championing local manufacturing. In 1972, Ron took over Pedders Suspension, the family business his father, Roy, had founded in 1950. Under Ron’s leadership, the business evolved from a focus on reconditioning shock absorbers to take the significant step of designing and producing its own product. To support this radical step, Ron Pedder saw the only way to ensure good distribution of his product was to open Pedder’s own stores. This strategy paved the way for the commencement of extensive franchising to support Pedder’s own homegrown brand. This move made Pedders unique worldwide in that it developed, manufactured, distributed and
installed its own product through its own retail chain. Outside of business, Ron’s passion was in racing rally cars and through this passion Ron’s first foray into franchising took place. Through many gentlemen’s agreements in the late 1970s with his fellow rally car drivers, Ron was able to increase his company’s distribution of its products. In 1982, the Pedders Suspension Franchise System was fully developed and the first full franchise operation, Pedders Frankston, was opened. The rest, as they say, is history. Pedders now has distribution through 120 outlets Australia-wide, plus export markets all over the world. Ron Pedder’s innate knowledge of the marketplace has enabled the company to continuously adapt to meet consumer needs. As a result, a small familyowned shock absorbers business has expanded into a nationwide franchise operation in Australia and throughout the world.
Ron’s vision to create a strong brand identity resulted in the creation of the Pedders Bull and ‘No Bull’ tagline – now household names in Australia – and the company’s significant investment in local manufacturing capability during his tenure is another of his success stories. He is both admired and respected by his peers and those in the industry and has received numerous accolades due to his achievements. For more from Pedders, visit www.pedders.com.au
THREE-IN-ONE FESTIVAL FAST APPROACHING The Taipei AMPA 3-in-1 ranks in the top two automobile and motorcycle parts and accessories shows in Asia The 2020 Taipei AMPA, Autotronics Taipei and Motorcycle Taiwan exhibitions will take place across April 15 to 18, 2020 at the Taipei Nangang Exhibition Center Hall 1 (TaiNEX1) and Hall 2 (TaiNEX2). Organised by the Taiwan External Trade Development Council (TAITRA) and co-organised by the Taiwan Transportation Vehicle MFRS Association (TTVMA), Taipei AMPA is entering its 36th year in 2020, while Autotronics Taipei and Motorcycle Taiwan are entering their 15th years respectively. The Taipei AMPA 3-in-1 ranks in the top two automobile and motorcycle parts and accessories shows in Asia. More than 7,000 international
buyers from 142 countries attended in 2019, with C-level executives and procurement decision makers making up more than 80 percent of all visitors. In 2020, more than 1,450 exhibitors are expected to exhibit on the latest industry trend, “C.A.S.E”, which stands for “Connected, Autonomous, Services & shared, and Electric.” Keeping up with the transformation from 2019, the 2020 AMPA three-in-one trade show will continue to focus on electrification, automation, and power themes, bringing Taiwan’s top automobile corporations to the top automotive trading platform in the world. To date, companies such as Fukuta, Nan Hoang, TW Racing Parts, Gordon Auto Body Parts, Phihong, Sonar Auto Parts, Eagle Eyes, Sican, and more have signed up to participate in next year’s Taipei AMPA. For keener exhibit categorisation and to make it easier for attendees to locate products, “Automobile Lighting” and “Car Care” will stand out to attract visitors’ attention. Additionally, ICT and electric vehicle exhibits will be shown in the “Intelligent Transportation Systems and Solution” and “Electric Vehicle and
Peripherals” zones at the first floor exhibit area of the TaiNEX2. The 2020 Taipei AMPA three-in-one will be held in TaiNEX1 and the first floor of TaiNEX2. Organisers say that with big name exhibitors bunched together, much buyer-exhibitor interaction is expected to take place. Top products from the areas of engine and maintenance parts, Automobile Body Parts, steering and suspension systems, safety and security systems, brake systems, interior accessories, electric motors, lighting accessories, electrical wires and cables, transmission systems, automobile electronics, batteries, cyclist outfits, motorcycles and more will be shown across the entire exhibition. Visitor pre-registration is now open. For more information, visit www.ampa-in-one.com.tw Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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NEWS
THE HON. KAREN ANDREWS VISITS AIC Innovation Centre Preview for Federal Minister of Industry Ahead of the launch of the cutting-edge Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) in December, the Federal Minister for Industry, Science and Technology – the Hon. Karen Andrews MP, has visited the facility for a sneak preview.
AIC Managing Director Luke Truskinger, AAAA Chief Executive Officer Stuart Charity, AAAA Board Members and a small selection of industry representatives welcomed the Minister Despite being an active work zone as the facility continues to come together, Minister Andrews was given a tour on the key aspects and technologies that will increase the capability of automotive companies and aid in new product development for local and export markets. Through OEM Vehicle Data, 3D Scanning and testing services including ESC (Sine-with-Dwell) and Brake Performance testing, the AIC will transform the automotive aftermarket industry.
As a qualified Mechanical Engineer, Minister Andrews was extremely interested in the AIC development and positive about the potential of the facility to benefit the automotive industry in Australia in a meaningful way. The official opening of the AIC in December will mark the beginning of a new chapter for the industry. To discuss how the Auto Innovation Centre can support your business/product development, contact luke@aaaa.com.au or call 03 9545 3333 8
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
SEMA DELIGHTS A number of AAAA members were on-show at the Las Vegas event in November, with Turbosmart and ARB collecting awards The SEMA Show is a premier trade-only event designed to allow automotive specialty equipment manufacturers to display and debut new, innovative products while connecting with industry buyers from all over the world. The four-day event attracts more than 161,000 individuals from more than 140 countries outside the United States, including 71,000 quality buyer companies, 3,300 media representatives and 2,400 exhibiting companies. On show across the November 5-8 event were major automakers and leading aftermarket manufacturers as well as small businesses owned and operated by automotive enthusiasts who know, love and understand vehicles inside and out. A number of AAAA members impressed at the show, with Turbosmart and ARB winning awards and the following members putting their best foot forward on the exhibition floor: • SEMA • Airbag Man • ARB 4x4 Accessories • Covercraft • DCI Performance Products • Dobinsons Spring & Suspension • Dynamic Suspensions • GFB Go Fast Bits • Harrop Engineering
• Summernats / Motorex • Pedders • Redarc Corporation • XClutch (Australian Clutch Services) • Whiteline • Superpro • MSA • Turbosmart • AAPEX • Redranger
Turbosmart won a ‘Best New Product’ Award for the second year in a row, this time for its newest release, the Gen-V e-WG 60mm Electronic Wastegate . This comes off the back of its 2018 win for the Universal Kompact EM Blow Off Valve. “I’m just so excited for my team. This has been a project of pure passion for the guys and it’s been a long time in the making. We’re proud of what we’ve achieved here and it just spurs us on to continue innovating and finding new ways to apply technology for our customers needs,” Turbosmart Chief Executive Officer, Nic Cooper, said. In addition to connecting manufacturers with buyers at the SEMA Show, the annual event again provided value to participants through education seminars and networking events. Also attracting plenty of attention was the New Products Showcase, which featured nearly 3,000 new products. Products were judged across 16
award categories, with each category having one winner and two runners-up The 2019 SEMA New Product Award Winners are: • Collision Repair & Refinish Product - Society of Collision Repair Specialists (SCRS), SCRS Guide to Complete Repair Planning – Blueprint Optimization Tool • Engineered New Product - Modern Driveline, 1994-2004 Mustang Hydraulic Clutch Master Cylinder Conversion Kit • Exterior Accessory Product - CURT Group: CURT, ARIES, LUVERNE, UWS; BetterWeigh Mobile Towing Scale with TowSense Technology • Interior Accessory Product - AutoMeter, InVision Digital Dash • Merchandising Display - Dee Zee, Hex Series Counter Display • Mobile Electronics Product - VAIS Technology, SEER (Smart Entry Exit Recognition) • Off-Road/4-Wheel Drive Product - ICON Vehicle Dynamics, 2020-UP Jeep Gladiator (JT) 2.5” Suspension System • Packaging Design - Anest Iwata USA, Iwata Vault TH2 • Performance-Racing Product - Turbosmart, Gen-V eWG60 Power-Gate 60 Electronic • Performance-Street Product - Aeromotive Inc., Aeromotive Variable Speed 5.0gpm Brushless Fuel Pump • Powersports Product - SSV Works, Overhead Weatherproof Audio Solution for Polaris RZR 2 and 4 Seat Vehicles • Street Rod/Custom Car Product - Dakota Digital, RTX32F-X 1932 Ford Retrotech Instruments • Tire and Related Product - Yokohama Tire, GEOLANDAR X-AT • Tools & Equipment Product - TRAC Tire Rotation Assistance Cart, TRAC Tire Rotation Assistance Cart • Van/Pickup/Sport-Utility Product - RSI SmartCap SmartCap, EVO • Wheel and Related Product - Topline Products, VR16 Raid The SEMA Show was held across 1.2 million net square feet of exhibition space and an additional one million square feet of features and attractions throughout the Las Vegas Convention Center, outside areas and the neighbouring Westgate Las Vegas Resort & Casino. The SEMA Show is organised by the Specialty Equipment Market Association (SEMA), a trade organisation representing the $44.6 billion automotive aftermarket industry. For more information, visit www.sema.org or www.semashow.com
NEWS
DREW TECHNOLOGIES AND AUTOLOGIC TO BECOME OPUS IVS Drew Technologies, Autologic and Bluelink Diagnostic Solutions are uniting as one business called Opus IVS within the Intelligent Vehicle Support (IVS) division of Opus Group AB (publ) In 2017, Autologic was welcomed into the Opus IVS division alongside Drew Technologies. Shortly thereafter Farsight and Bluelink joined the Opus IVS division. These companies have used their combined expertise to support collision repair shops, independent mechanical repair shops, and technicians in repairing complex vehicle technology. • Drew Technologies, which joined Opus in 2015, is known globally for the development of OEM factory-authorised tools used at dealerships and J2534 flash diagnostic products that give independent service shops the same capabilities as OEMs. • Autologic, acquired in 2017, is a leader in vehicle diagnostics providing tools and live diagnostic support that give shops OEM-level coding and programming capabilities across European, US and Asian car brands. • Bluelink, acquired in 2019, is a pioneer of remote vehicle communications and programming hardware and software, developing solutions that offer remote diagnostics coverage for more brands and more model years. • Opus IVS also includes the legacy business Farsight, which has strengthened Autologic and Drew Technologies all-brand diagnostic and
service capabilities since joining the group in 2017. “In a short time, we have brought these leading companies together within Opus IVS and leveraged the technology from over 30 patents we have pending to help technicians repair complex, modern vehicles,” Opus IVS President, Brian Herron, said. “Rebranding as Opus IVS is the next logical step in our companies’ evolution allowing us to deliver even more advancements to the market under one unified identity that emphasises our strengths in innovation and diagnostic support.” Opus IVS says customers will see more benefits from the union in the future, as it continues to focus on delivering high-quality diagnostic solutions to service shops around the world.
Opus IVS Diagnostic Solutions Opus IVS reportedly offers a unique combination of licensed OEM software and aftermarket diagnostic solutions with expert guidance from OEM-trained master technicians to help shops get the job done. Opus IVS says its companies have worked together to deliver several innovative solutions, including: • DrivePRO – combines licensed OEM software, aftermarket ease-of-use, remote programming,
and calibration, all connected to factory-trained live technicians enabling businesses to tackle complex intelligent vehicle repairs. • DriveCRASH – Opus IVS’ collision-specific diagnostic platform and the only OEMendorsed pre/post-scanning tool to integrate wide OE coverage, on-demand QuickScan, remote programming, calibration and a full diagnostic scan tool with our live team of master technicians to support you. • RAP2 – a remote programming solution with no upfront purchase price, OEM approval, built in 4G, guaranteed results, and wider coverage than any other system on the market; backed by Drew Technologies, experts in J2534 flash programming for over 20 years Opus Group AB (publ) (Opus) is a technology-driven growth company in the vehicle inspection and intelligent vehicle support markets. For more information about Opus, please visit www.opus.global
NEW CLUTCH TECH VIDEO FROM ACS The latest video from ACS looks at a Hyundai i40 Dual Clutch Transmission clutch assembly replacement Australian Clutch Services has released a new video from its Clutch Tech series of technical support videos. The video, which was developed in-house at ACS, explores the clutch assembly removal and installation procedure for the Hyundai i40 Dual Clutch Transmission. “Our latest Clutch Tech video looks at the different procedures and tools required for a Hyundai i40 Dual Clutch Transmission clutch assembly replacement,” Australia Clutch Services Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said. “The video goes through the complete process including how to reset the actuators to ensure correct clutch operation when the transmission is reinstalled in the vehicle.” Dual Clutch Transmission technology is still
relatively new in the industry and ACS says it has been working to ensure all of the necessary tools and components are available for the Australian market as well as working on technical support guides for those workshops looking to take on these jobs. ACS has also launched a tool hire program covering several of the most commonly used tools. This program can be accessed through the ACS distribution network with the purchase of any applicable Dual Clutch Transmission clutch kit and allows workshops to take on more of these jobs without the significant initial investment of purchasing the tools. “Dual Clutch Transmission technology is becoming increasingly common in the Australian market and we are expecting to see significant
growth in this area for our distributors around Australia,” Stewart said. “Our extensive range of clutch components as well as specialist tools allows us to ensure our customers have access to the items they require as quickly as possible and with the necessary technical support.” The Hyundai i40 DCT clutch assembly replacement video is available now on the ACS YouTube channel. For more information on the ACS product range, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au or email sales@australianclutch.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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NEWS
AUSTRALIA’S ONGOING LOVE AFFAIR WITH THE UTE Along with SUVs, dual-cab utes are quickly becoming a family car of choice They have the ride height of an SUV, the versatility of a tray, and the offroad ability of a 4WD. While vehicle sales are slowing (in line with the broader economic environment), ute sales are less affected than most other passenger vehicles. The overall passenger car market is down, with almost 50,000 fewer vehicles sold compared to the same period in 2018. Utes and SUVs buck the trend however, with a decline of just 3.4 percent and 3.3 percent respectively. In fact, so far in 2019, almost one-in-five new vehicles sold were a ute, making them the second top selling category (just behind medium SUVs). Looking back over the past two years of monthly sales figures, we can see some clear trends, with a clear peak in June each year, as buyers take advantage of end of financial year deals and incentives. This is especially true for 4x4s, with many purchasers taking the opportunity to step up to a higher-grade model. The broader appeal here is reflected in the ability of these versatile vehicles to deliver to family needs, requiring fewer compromises when it comes to safety, style, performance and comfort.
T60 has collected almost 3,000 sales, and the Great Wall Steed has broken the 1,000 unit barrier, more than doubling its sales vs. the same period in 2018. Looking at their unique selling points, beyond competing on price, the D-Max draws in customers seeking a reliable, no-frills product, the T60 was the first Chinese commercial vehicle to receive a five-star ANCAP, and the Great Wall Steed comes decked out with tradie-focused specs such as a big step bumper to allow easy access to the tray.
Figure One: Monthly Sales of 4x4 and 4x2 Utes (VFACTS new car sales, Sep 2019)
Digging deeper, the changing model mix is also interesting. At the start of 2019, Toyota’s Hilux was clearly the biggest player. Over the course of the year however, Ford’s Ranger and Mitsubishi’s Triton have been aggressively competing and are now catching up. Looking specifically at 4x4 sales, the Mitsubishi Triton was September’s biggest mover, adding 2,755 sales to close on 17,000 for the year, and bumping the Hilux into third place.
Figure Three: September YTD sales of Isuzu D-Max, LDV T60 and the Great Wall Steed (VFACTS new car sales, Sep 2019)
In summary, it is clear to see that the ute market is growing based on an ongoing level of demand. What does this mean for the aftermarket? From a manufacturer and retailer perspective, there is a need to cater for an increasingly wide range of vehicles and models. Decisions need to be made around brand and range coverage to cater to customer’s needs. Similarly, workshops will need to be fully across the models they are most likely to see in their local area. This means that understanding your local car parc will be a key strategy going forward.
Figure Two: Monthly Sales of Ford Ranger 4x4, Toyota Hilux 4x4 and Mitsubishi Triton 4x4 (VFACTS new car sales, Sep 2019)
The rest of the market beyond the top three is also highly competitive, with a number of less ‘traditional’ ute brands becoming more successful. Isuzu’s D-Max has moved into fifth place on YTD sales, Chinese manufacturer LDV’s 10
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The AAAA will shortly be publishing the latest version of its Local Car Parc tool. The 2019 update will add historical data, allowing members to see how the car parc has shifted over the past five years, also providing a snapshot of the demographic profile of their area. This information can become a key input, helping inform business planning going forward. This column was prepared for AAAA Magazine by ACA Research, our partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to your inbox each quarter. For more information, visit www.acaresearch.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on bselwyn@acaresearch.com.au
NEWS
INDUSTRY GETS BEHIND FORMULA SAE-A The 20th annual Formula SAE-A competition will be held across 5-8 December at Winton Motor Raceway Australia’s car industry is backing the automotive engineers of the future by supporting local university teams in Formula SAE-A, which will bring together more than 30 student-built racers in December. Formula SAE-A is a high-tech engineering competition where university students design, build and compete in Formula-style open-wheeled racing cars. Now in its 20th year, the competition is run by the Society of Automotive Engineers – Australasia (SAEA), the Asia Pacific professional body for automotive and mobility engineers. SAE-A Chairman Adrian Feeney said local automotive companies had provided invaluable financial and in-kind support to FSAE-A.
“We enjoy significant financial contributions from Ford, Toyota and Paccar Australia, which builds Kenworth trucks in Australia, and major in-kind support from many others,” Adrian said. “This month, for example, GM Holden is making its Proving Ground at Lang Lang available to four of the Melbourne-based teams to test their cars at a world class facility. “FSAE-A is a prime recruiting ground for engineering jobs at companies like Ford, Holden, Paccar and many other companies which have substantial local engineering teams. “Team members are often headhunted for the unique skillsets they have developed in engineering, management, leadership, teamwork, marketing and finance.” Thousands of students, volunteers and spectators will be at this year’s event, including teams from the UK, Germany, India, Japan, New Zealand and USA. A highlight will be demonstration runs by Australia’s first student-built, fully autonomous race car, the Monash Motorsport M19-D, ahead
of its competition debut in Germany next year. The M19-D showcases the latest innovations in driverless automotive technology, including complex environment perception algorithms and robust actuation hardware. Monash Motorsport chief executive officer, Paras Bhutiani, said the M19-D was developed over three years by a team of more than 200 undergraduate students at Monash University. It combines artificial intelligence, super-accurate GPS, an advanced LiDAR laser scanner and a stereoscopic camera system with an electric powertrain proven in more than 1000km of track testing. For more on the competition, visit www.saea.com.au/formula_saea
WELCOME NATRAD AUTOCARE HEIDELBERG For many years, Burgess Automotive has been looking after vehicles in Melbourne’s north-eastern suburbs Qualified technicians at the workshop can perform a variety of jobs including vehicle servicing, fault diagnosis, mechanical repairs, cooling systems, air conditioning and roadworthy certificates. Most of their work involves passenger vehicles, 4x4s and light commercials and they are familiar with many European makes. Owners Mark and Katherine Burgess say they are proud of their business and are keen to ensure their customers receive the very best care. As such, recent investments have included extra training and new equipment to assist with faultfinding and diagnostic analysis. Joining the Natrad AutoCare group is central to this strategy of taking their business to a new level with a host of advantages for both the workshop and for its customers. By becoming a Natrad AutoCare, the Heidelberg workshop gains a new sophisticated business software system and powerful branding and marketing support. The team of three staff share more than 25 years of experience between them in vehicle servicing and mechanical repairs. Now, as members of the Natrad network consisting of over 50 workshops
Australia wide, they have access to a wealth of combined knowledge and expertise totalling several hundred years. “Bringing a high-calibre business like Burgess Automotive into our group delivers fantastic benefits to both parties,” Natrad AutoCare National Operations Manager, Steven Jones, said. “Our operations and marketing support helps the Heidelberg workshop grow stronger as a business, and we gain another well-respected operator as a new ambassador for the Natrad AutoCare group”. Natrad AutoCare Heidelberg also has improved access to an extensive range of quality parts and consumables from leading suppliers around Australia and the world with better buying power through Natrad’s preferred supplier program. This improves both pricing and profitability while extensive marketing, advertising and promotions help to funnel more business into the workshop, says Natrad. Their customers receive a host of extra benefits as well. Becoming a Natrad AutoCare has coincided with a move to new premises at 113A McEwan Road, Heidelberg with improved parking and facilities. Parts and workmanship are backed by a
national warranty system supported by the entire network of Natrad stores across the country; and Natrad’s loyalty program means customers get to participate in special offers, bonus rewards and other promotional activities. Natrad AutoCare says its powerful branding, marketing expertise and advanced business tools are extremely cost effective for Franchise members. The business software platform is designed to streamline back-office functions in order to maximise time available for mechanics and technicians to spend looking after customers and their vehicles. If you think your workshop could benefit from a helping hand and a national brand, Natrad AutoCare invites you to contact its team 03 979501255 or visit www.natradautocare.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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NEWS
NAPA AUTO PARTS LAUNCHES ON THE EAST COAST Townsville store now open With NAPA Auto Parts’ first six stores now open in Western Australia, the NAPA blue and yellow has now expanded to Australia’s east coast, taking over Townsville and Mackay in Queensland. Opened on 1 November and located at 502-508 Woolcock Street, Garbutt, the Townsville branch is a rebranded Ashdown-Ingram building and is extending its range of products to better suit the constantly changing market. “We’ve been working for weeks to get the building ready and product range increased. To open the doors as NAPA Auto Parts was very exciting and it was the culmination of a lot of team work,” Townsville Branch Manager, Darryl Rooker, said. “From the extended range to NAPA PROLink, our new online ordering system which makes it easier for our customers to order products, the blue and yellow is a welcome change.” As with all NAPA Auto Parts locations, whilst the building has a different colour, the same people you know and trust will be serving you behind the counter.
For existing Ashdown-Ingram customers, it’ll be very much business as usual, with the only change they will experience being the use of NAPA PROLink, an online system used to access an enhanced vehicle parts catalogue search engine. It is designed to make it easier for you to efficiently search for and order parts for specific vehicles or applications. The system provides ‘real time’ information on pricing and inventory at your home branch and surrounding branches, while giving you the ability to build customer quotes, order parts online, search for Log Book Service information (requires SmartQuote subscription) and much more. NAPA Auto Parts says it is investing significantly to enhance the product offer and service to its trade customers; stating the expanded storage area will house a significantly expanded range with the in-branch range increasing by around 10,000 products. This represents an inventory investment of over $500,000, which NAPA Auto Parts says shows
it is serious about providing the parts you need, more often, to complete your jobs in a more convenient location. Over the course of the coming year, the NAPA Auto Parts range will continue to expand. Over the coming months you will see further NAPA Auto Parts locations opening, namely Mackay, Townsville and Wangara in November and more in 2020. For the latest locations, visit www.napaparts.com.au or check out the Facebook page @NAPA Auto Parts Asia Pacific.
TAG TOWING GROUP ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH BRINK GROUP Towing Distribution Agreement reached for Australia and New Zealand TAG Towbars (SWD Group) and Brink Group (Netherlands) say they are pleased to announce an exciting new distribution agreement which will see Brink’s “world-renowned” European Towbars distributed by TAG Towbars throughout Australia and New Zealand. TAG will also expand its portfolio of Australian designed and manufactured towbars into the growing European vehicle segment within Australia and New Zealand. In addition to the Brink European range manufactured in Europe, Brink Thailand will be manufacturing the new generation TAG Towbars that have been designed, developed and tested in Australia. TAG says not only do the towbars meet the stringent ADR62/01 standards, but the Brink manufacturing facilities also meet and exceed IATF 16949 quality standards. TAG’s portfolio includes a comprehensive range of TAG+ and TAG EURO towbars strengthened by a complete offering of Towing accessories, including TAG Pulse wire harnesses; distributed nationally through the TAG Distributor network and sold via leading automotive retailers. 14
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TAG has been designing and manufacturing towbars in Australia for more than 30 years and has one of the largest ranges of towbars and wiring solutions that cover more than 90 percent of the vehicles on the road in Australia. Brink says it is a global market leader in designing, testing and selling flanged balls, fixed, detachable and retractable towbars to most car manufacturers and distributors around the world. Brink has as many as a thousand different towbar models and wiring kits in its collection, reportedly develops over two hundred new types per year, and currently has about 25 million vehicles worldwide driving around with its towbars. “Brink has global expertise and renowned products; and TAG has a strong and growing brand presence in the Australian market,” SWD Group Chief Executive Officer, Kurt Schmid, said. “The Brink slogan is ‘Your perfect fit’ and we see our partnership as such, not only will it strengthen our business, the end-user will benefit from our joint forces. “TAG Towbars is delighted to announce this new distribution alliance with a globally renowned brand.
Left to right: Brink Group CEO Sven Arend; Brink Group Vice President IAM Sales & Marketing, Koen Buyst; SWD Group CEO Kurt Schmid; and SWD Group COO Mike Tomsett.
“In the 16 months since the formation of the SWD Group, the seven distribution centers and two manufacturing facilities around Australia have been through rigorous restructuring and alignment to meet growing global economic pressures and make provision for alliances and partnerships akin to the Brink announcement. “The Brink range fits right into our current warehousing and logistics model, enabling our wholesale business to provide a comprehensive service to our TAG Distributors now and into the future. “Customers will begin to see the introduction of the Brink European range of products early in 2020, followed by the arrival of Thailand manufactured products shortly after that.” For more information, visit www.tagtowbars.com.au or email info@tagtowing.com
NEWS
DBA JOINS FORCES BURSON AUTO PARTS MANAGERS STEP UP ON THE GC WITH IAME The organisations have teamed up to develop a new braking course for technicians Disc Brakes Australia has teamed up with the Institute of Automotive Mechanical Engineers (IAME) to co-develop a Certificate II course in “Automotive System Braking Technology.” The course is a nationally recognised and highly technical and flexible qualification which can be undertaken by fully qualified mechanics through to workshop assistants wanting to upskill.
“Technology outpaces education all the time. DBA had identified there was a gap in the training and they truly wanted a professional to be fitting their products and to have an overall higher standard in brake replacement technicians,” IAME Chief Executive Officer, Peter Blanchard, said. The course is Australian Skills Quality Authority (ASQA) approved and partnered with a nationally recognised registered training organisation in the IAME. It is a blended course which allows the student to conduct the course in-person, via online modules and partake in practical workshop requirements to ensure all skill-sets are assessed. “As an Australian braking manufacturer, we of course have a keen interest in helping to develop the industry and trade by providing as much information and expertise as we can within our sector,” DBA Founder and Head of International Sales, Phillip Joseph Snr, said. “We’re very pleased to be working with an organisation so distinguished as the IAME to make this happen and help the industry keep up to date with the latest technologies and methods to ensure a positive outcome.” For more information on the qualification, please visit www.iame.com.au or call 02 9782 1100. 16
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The 2019 Burson Auto Parts Store Managers’ Conference has been hailed as a major success
The conference was held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre from October 17 to 20. A total of 170 Burson Auto Parts store managers joined the Australian company’s executive management team across four days covering a detailed agenda of seminars and activities. The theme of the conference was “Step Up”, enabling all of the Burson Auto Parts store managers to reflect on the company’s fundamental goals. Burson Auto Parts explains that these include continuing and growing the company’s status as Australia’s preferred trade supplier of automotive parts, tools and equipment by focusing on providing optimum service, value and industry leading supplier product knowledge to the company’s highly valued trade customers. An undeniable inspiration for the Step Up theme of the conference was the event’s special guest motivational speaker, Contiki Tours founder John Anderson. His story of having started his world leading travel business by taking people on tours of New Zealand driving a Combi-Van, held similarities with Burson Auto Parts coming to life when company co-founder Ron Burgoine started selling automotive parts to mechanics from his car boot. It wasn’t all training seminars for the Burson Auto Parts store managers during the conference, with team structured physical events also including the company’s own “Survivor” challenge. The Gold Coast’s Movieworld was opened exclusively for a team dinner during the conference, with some managers taking on a few of the wild rides that were operating during this fun Team Burson event. A third social dinner event at the Miami Markets proved very popular, offering a variety of international cuisines in a funky seaside atmosphere. The Burson Auto Parts managers’ conference
concluded with a gala dinner held at the Gold Coast Convention Centre on Sunday October 20. This spectacular event saw the Burson Auto Parts managers join more than 800 of their Bapcor Group company colleagues and supplier attendees in what was a highly enjoyable finale to this highly successful event. “Our goal for this conference was to educate, develop and support the company’s greatest asset, our people,” Burson Auto Parts National Sales Manager, Anthony Hughes, said. “Placing our store managers together with our suppliers and many like-minded company colleagues, the conference proved to be an excellent training and networking opportunity for all who took part. “We believe that this annual event and our 2IC Conference held last year, combined with all of the training initiatives that we continuously provide, positions Burson Auto Parts and Bapcor as employers of choice in the automotive aftermarket.” Burson Auto Parts says that this conference is just one part of its ongoing commitment to nurturing and developing its people in a team orientated, cooperative and highly supportive manner. It says this contributes significantly to the Australian company’s ability to retain and attract the industry’s best talent, offering career ascension opportunities not only through the ever growing Burson Auto Parts store network, but through Australia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, Bapcor Limited. For more from Burson Auto Parts, visit www.burson.com.au
NEWS
AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI REVEALS FUTURE ROADMAP Promotional activities are revving up ahead of Automechanika Shanghai’s 15th edition In September celebrations ahead of the 15th Automechanika Shanghai jumped into action at the Bellagio Shanghai. More than 180 industry leaders, organisers, long-time supporters, partners and media came together to reflect upon the show’s history and place in the market at the event which also laid out the show’s future roadmap under the backdrop of development across the entire automotive industry, both in China and abroad. “Deemed as one of the prime automotive fairs in Asia, Automechanika Shanghai has the ability to pull in highly influential industry players from around the world,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said. “Throughout the years, the growing platform has moved beyond just a traditional trade fair as it looks to a more dynamic future, embracing the automotive ecosystem in every way. As such, the footprint of its roadmap can be felt across the show.” Sustainability is one of Automechanika Shanghai’s fundamental objectives. Each year, the show strives to explore different trends and encourages more participation from players across all corners of the industry. Activities around the fairground support trade, network expansion and business development as the show grows into a focal meeting point for the industry. As a result, companies are now proactively choosing this event as part of their strategic development plans, say event organisers. Going forward, participants will be able to reap the benefits of more vertical and horizontal
integration from across the entire supply chain. It will continue to highlight many of the future tools and technologies that are changing the automotive landscape. It also aims to incorporate more participation from finance and investment, start-ups, research institutes, talent acquisition and development. As such, this pull factor will help facilitate many important international events, cooperation meetings, product launches and more amongst companies, organisations and policymakers. Elsewhere, organisers endeavour to maintain the social and environmental integrity of the show by vigorously supporting and responding to local eco-friendly policies. Under the Green Trade Fair Initiative, building or construction materials and other matter that the organisers use should now be recyclable or reusable. Additionally, the fair also enthusiastically promotes the guidelines to its exhibitors. This year, the Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility sector embraces the automotive ecosystem concept and environmental protection. The area supports the industry’s shift towards more digitalisation, connectivity, alternative drives, autonomous driving, road infrastructure and new mobility services, as well as new energy vehicles that bring China’s ambitious green goals to life. Customising is also set to become a thriving area as it is singled out as an independent sector. The move comes as a result of the market’s growth potential and underscores its future importance in the sector. For instance, new local policies such as the Implementation Plan for Improving the Mechanism of Promoting Consumption Systems
(2018-2020) aims to stimulate the consumption of car racing, tourism, culture and customisation by eliminating many of their barriers. Visitors can also learn about some of the evolving business models across the exhibition as the show engages a wider auto community. Supply chain and chain store operators, independent aftermarket players, e-commerce platforms, as well as insurance and finance providers, will make their presence known in the Supply Chain and Chain Store zone. Away from the show floor, more than 50 fringe events are expected to reveal the latest industry updates. Some of the most highly anticipated events of the year are the International Bodyshop Industry Symposium (IBIS) China 2019, Body & Paint World Championships, Connected Mobility Conference, Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility Summit and the China International Tyre Industry Conference. Automechanika Shanghai will feature over 6,300 exhibitors and span across 360,000 sqm of space in the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai) across December 3-6. For more information, visit www.messefrankfurt.com
FUND TO MODERNISE MANUFACTURING The fund will provide grants to small and medium manufacturing businesses The Morrison Government is backing small and medium sized Australian manufacturers to invest in new technology, grow and create new jobs, with the launch of a new $160 million fund. Minister for Industry, Science and Technology, Karen Andrews, said the fund would help manufacturers become more competitive by cofunding investments in new technologies. “Strengthening our core and emerging manufacturing industries is a key part of the Government’s economic plan to create 1.25 million new jobs over the next five years,” Minister Andrews said. “The fund will provide grants to small and medium manufacturing businesses so they can invest
in capital equipment and new technologies…it will also support businesses to upskill workers to maximise the benefits of technology.” The Manufacturing Modernisation Fund will include $50 million from the Government and will be matched by at least $110 million from industry. The fund will have two types of grants; • $20 million will be for matched grants of between $50,000 and $100,000 for smaller scale technology investments; and • $30 million for larger-scale grants of up to $1 million, on a three to one funding basis with industry, to support transformative investments in technologies and processes.
in manufacturing growth and competitiveness, including the $100 million Advanced Manufacturing Fund, the Advanced Manufacturing Growth Centre, the Entrepreneurs’ Programme, and the $40 million Innovative Manufacturing Cooperative Research Centre.
The fund builds on other Government investments
For more information, visit www.business.gov.au/MMF Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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NEWS
UNCOLLECTED VEHICLES CREATING HAVOC AT AUTOMOTIVE WORKSHOPS Automotive service and repair workshops across the country are dealing with the costly and inconvenient issue of uncollected vehicles, while outdated regulations hinder their ability to effectively resolve the situation In most Australian states and territories, the current uncollected goods laws are archaic and do not serve to protect the interests of those parties most regularly affected and disadvantaged by these laws, which is automotive workshops. The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) regularly receives queries from business owners who are justifiably frustrated with their inability to either remove/ dispose of an uncollected vehicle from their property or sell the vehicle to recoup unpaid expenses for parts and labour. The most common scenario facing workshops is when tow truck drivers unload a vehicle at their premises that has been recovered from the side of the road. Either contact is never established with the owner or the owner decides the car is not their problem anymore and ignores requests from the workshop. Another scenario workshops encounter is when mechanical work is quoted or undertaken to a customer vehicle that can in some instances outweigh the value of the car. The vehicle owner may refuse to accept the quote or refuse to pay for parts and services rendered and then cut off communication to avoid resolving the matter. Through no fault of their own, the workshop must deal with the negative consequences of this stranded vehicle which are numerous and significant. In the first instance, there is the time and stress
associated with trying to contact the owner of the vehicle to have it retrieved and if required, payment made. With no successful result, the workshop then has to work through the oftenunclear process of what their rights are and the steps they need to take to solve the situation. For small workshops with limited space, particularly those in inner city locations, the daily issue becomes storing and parking the vehicle every day. Pushing the vehicle onto the street may incur parking fines or risk the car being towed, while having the car allocated to a space that a paying customer’s vehicle may occupy, or a bay in the workshop, is an unacceptable financial burden. In most Australian States, values for uncollected goods and the timeframes to legally dispose of goods are out of touch with what automotive workshops require. In Queensland the situation for workshop owners is particularly untenable. The Uncollected Goods Act was introduced in 1967 and lists the retention period for holding and disposing of uncollected goods as six months, plus the time on top of this to obtain a court order. For a small workshop to have to manage an additional vehicle that has not been collected for six months is unacceptable. “Although this may not seem like a large industry issue, the stories we hear from members and the broader industry are both regular and troubling. State laws need to be updated to better support
businesses bearing the brunt of uncollected vehicles,” Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said. The good news is there has been positive movement on uncollected goods acts in recent times. From 1st July 2020, New South Wales will implement amendments that shorten retention periods of uncollected goods based on much higher item value ranges, that better reflects vehicle values. Following in New South Wales’ footsteps, both Western Australia and Tasmania are in the process of reviewing their respective uncollected goods acts. The AAAA has written a submission to the Western Australian Government on behalf of members with their preferred outcomes, which are closer in line with updated New South Wales regulations. For AAAA members, a free Legal Hotline provides advice to workshops on how they should deal with their uncollected vehicle situation. To access this hotline, members should call 1300 369 703 and quote their member number. The AAAA hopes that drawing more attention to this important issue, seeking industry feedback and preparing submissions to governments will help bring about necessary change. If you have any suggestions around uncollected goods legislation amendments or further insights on the issue of uncollected vehicles, please email advocacy@aaaa.com.au
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COVER STORY
AUSSIE ICON AUNGER CELEBRATES 50 YEARS
Aunger is an iconic name in the Australian automotive aftermarket industry and this year celebrates its 50th anniversary Today, Aunger produces a range of automotive parts and accessories sold through specialist suppliers and retailers across the country, but few would know or remember how this business started. It was the heyday of the ‘muscle car’, the late ‘60s and early ‘70s, and a young Adelaide entrepreneur with experience in plastic injection moulding called Kim Aunger saw a gap in the booming car accessories market. Kim designed and patented the first rear window louvre for cars, a practical and stylish accessory that quickly became a ‘must have’ with car enthusiasts in the ‘70s. To make it, Kim founded his car accessories business under his own name in 1969, and went on to launch a range of ‘dress up’ accessories to fit most of the popular Australian-made cars. A former Australian champion swimmer who represented his country in the 1960 Olympics in Rome, Kim Aunger soon added a range of spoilers and body kits to his accessories offering. Another Aunger party piece was cast-aluminium ‘mag’ wheels, which were specially designed to fit a myriad of models both local and from Japan. Its ‘Hot Wire’ wheel design became one of the most recognised and successful Australian-made wheels of all time. To help promote these wheels and accessories Kim took to the track, racing some notable muscle machines in Series Production and Touring Cars. He owned and raced a XW-model Falcon GTHO Phase II in the 1970 Bathurst 500, sharing with fellow South Australian and later F5000 hero John Walker, and in Touring Cars raced a Ford
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Mustang alongside Peter Finch, another Adelaide driver who went on to be better known for his exploits in Sports Sedans. For a period in the ‘70s and into the ‘80s, Aunger dominated the car accessory market in Australia and today, these iconic accessories and wheels are highly sought-after among restorers and enthusiasts of cars from this era.
Kim Aunger and the Australian Automotive Industry Kim Aunger was a major player not only in the Australian automotive market but also the industry behind it, and was one of the founders and former Presidents of the AAAA National Council. Sadly though, his life was cut tragically short in a helicopter accident in Victoria in 1989, aged just 47. Kim’s contribution to the Australian automotive industry was then recognised in 1992 with the inaugural presentation of the Kim Aunger Young Achievers Award as part of the annual Australian Auto Aftermarket Awards. Won by some of the best and brightest of the industry, the Award fittingly recognises inspiring young achievers who have demonstrated leadership, vision and innovation, and remains one of the industry’s most prestigious accolades. Aunger’s story didn’t end with the devastating death of the business’ founder, however, with its most recent chapter written by the purchase in 2017 of the Aunger brand by CoolDrive. One of Australasia’s largest automotive parts distributors, CoolDrive Auto Parts is an industry leader in automotive air conditioning, rotating
electrical, electrical accessories, engine cooling, engine management, underbody, braking and suspension products. A 100 percent family owned and operated business, CoolDrive was keen to see the iconic Aunger brand remain in Australian hands. “Aunger is an iconic brand name in Australia and in recent times was under-utilised, it almost disappeared. So we felt there was some currency in the brand if someone rejuvenated it,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said. “There is a generation of car enthusiasts who respect and in some cases revere the brand, it has quite a bit of heritage, so it made sense to us to honour that by producing a range of modern automotive accessories and parts to suit the Australian market. “Growing up I remember the brand fondly, and it’s a great honour to count it among the CoolDrive family now. “It’s a great fit for the CoolDrive culture, as we share a joint history of motor sport, and we’re also very pleased to be able to celebrate 50 years of the Aunger brand in 2019.”
COVER STORY
THE COOLDRIVE FAMILY
As part of its ongoing commitment to the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket, CoolDrive has a comprehensive range of products available through its own leading brands HULK 4x4 - Big. Strong. Tuff
Aunger’s range currently includes around 120 individual products, headlined by a range of car care products and its catalogue of affordable shock absorbers and suspension components.
getting toward the bottom of their resale value, so it doesn’t make a lot of economic sense to spend big money on major brand shock absorbers.
“I expect we will have something like 450500 items in the Aunger range within a year’s time,” John said.
“That’s why the Aunger shock absorber range was developed – to readily restore a vehicle’s original ride qualities while, more importantly, enhancing its handling and safety, all at a much more affordable price point.”
CoolDrive is also keen to locate the original moulds for Aunger’s legendary rear window louvre, confident that there would be a strong market for this iconic accessory.
Sourced from original-equipment suppliers, the Aunger shock absorber range comes with a standard three-year/60,000km limited warranty in line with similar OEM products.
CoolDrive is currently developing the Aunger range so that it can offer it exclusively to independents and small workshops.
All feature top quality NOK oil seals and upgraded piston rods to ensure smooth, trouble free operation, while the suspension struts include all mounting hardware such as bump stops and dust covers/boot kits where applicable, avoiding the need to source these separately.
There’s also some brake parts coming too, with exciting plans for further expansion.
Importantly though, it is being rejuvenated as a stand-alone brand, with the Aunger packaging not featuring any CoolDrive branding. “We are positioning the Aunger brand as a good-better range … offering something for the independents and smaller workshops to sell and have some ownership of,” John explained. Introduced by CoolDrive earlier this year was a range of Aunger shock absorbers, developed and manufactured to original-equipment specifications with an affordable price point, aimed at popular older model cars. “Some of these older vehicles can be getting a little tired, so a priority for owners is restoring the car’s original ride and handling characteristics,” CoolDrive Product Manager - Underbody, Graeme Dyall, said.
Available in a range of 41 fitments, the Aunger shock absorbers are available for VR to VE Holden Commodore models, BA to FG Ford Falcons, SX & SY Ford Territorys, BKmodel Mazda 3, Toyota’s Camry and Aurion, and Holden’s Apollo.
CoolDrive says the top quality products from HULK 4x4 are specifically designed to complement the growing 4WD market in Australia and New Zealand, providing the accessories needed to completely fit-out off-road vehicles. The expanding product range includes everything consumers could need in lifting and recovery equipment including kits and accessories, winch extension straps, snatch blocks and heavy duty jacks with air compressors and tyre management gauges also available. HULK 4x4 products are currently available nationwide through various distributors.
Jaylec – Stay switched on with Jaylec CoolDrive says its Jaylec brand is considered an expert in automotive electrical components, with products including starter motors and alternators, as well as electrical consumables, complete lighting assemblies, switches and gauges. All Jaylec products reportedly benefit from tried and tested quality, to deliver value and reliability.
Jayrad – Stay on the road for longer with Jayrad The Jayrad range focuses on engine cooling components, with products including radiators, heater cores, thermostats, intercoolers and cooling system accessories, water pumps and more.
Jayair – Stay cool with Jayair Jayair offers a complete range of automotive air conditioning parts and components, such as compressors, condensers, evaporators, fans and fittings.
AFI – Quality and affordability you can rely on AFI is a specialist in automotive electronic fuel injection, engine management and ignition system components to suit a wide range of vehicles and applications. Also available are common rail diesel injection products. For more information on CoolDrive and its family of brands, visit www.cooldrive.com.au
Two 4x4 fitments are also offered, for the Toyota Landcruiser and Nissan Patrol. CoolDrive says its commitment to the Aunger brand has ensured that an iconic name is returned to its rightful place in the Australian market; and that this respected position is truly reflected in the Aunger brand tagline: “Aussie Legend.” For more information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au
“But at the same time these vehicles are Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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PRODUCT R&D
MAKING THE MOST OF IT HPD recently developed the Series 2 version of its popular top-mount intercooler kit for the 70 Series Landcruiser V8 Australian performance product manufacturer High Performance Diesel designs, develops and manufactures upgrade products for a wide range of turbo-diesel vehicles. Made in Australia from high quality materials, HPD says its products improve performance, efficiency and longevity on and off-road. The process of developing new products is carried out entirely in-house by HPD, with its most recent project being the Series 2 version of its popular top-mount intercooler kit for the 70 Series Landcruiser V8.
Background HPD founder Dave Mitchell purchased a 2016 Landcruiser with just 11,000km on the clock to be the platform for development and testing. The vehicle was run on the dyno to establish benchmarks, recording peak power of 106.4kW at the wheels. Torque from the stock motor was 320Nm, with boost pressure of 9psi. The temperatures from the standard intercooler were measured, with hot air from the turbo entering the intercooler at up to 85°C and leaving at around 45°C. On a dyno on a winter morning, HPD explains these numbers seem reasonable, but when the engine is under load, such as when towing, working hard off-road or in extreme Australian heat, OEM intercoolers struggle to keep up and the temperatures start to rise. The hotter the air gets, the less dense it becomes, which means less oxygen for combustion in the engine. This leads to reduced power and torque, reduced efficiency and economy, and higher operating
temperatures that reduce engine longevity. In vehicles that have been tuned for increased power, the intercooler is put under even more pressure, and can become a limiting factor in engine performance. HPD’s new intercooler was designed to address these problems, while also delivering a more robust design which it says is less prone to leaks down the track.
STD: The standard intercooler cools air to 45 degrees
Creating a new design With these benchmark figures set, work began on the new design. To be more effective, the HPD intercooler needed to have a larger core than the stock unit, but it still needed to fit in the same space between the engine and the bonnet while allowing clearance for other accessories such as fuel filters, dual batteries and of course the HPD catch can. In order to fit a deeper, wider core, the inlet and outlet were shifted from the sides of the cooler to underneath, allowing extra size without taking up excessive space. Dave began by mocking up an intercooler from the larger core using sheetmetal for the end tanks and fittings. This prototype was fitted to the new Cruiser, along with the new twin thermofan setup, to ensure all measurements were correct and the fit was precise. This process also allowed Dave and his team to determine dimensions for piping and mounting brackets, so the end product would be a bolt-in replacement. Once the prototype’s dimensions were determined, it went to HPD’s CAD department,
AFTER: The red line shows standard power and torque. The blue line shows results with HPD intercooler and three inch exhaust. The green line shows final results after HPD ECU remap.
TEMPS: The red lines show hot side and cold side temperatures for the standard intercooler, the blue lines show the HPD Series 2 intercooler temperatures, which are around 20 degrees lower than stock. The hot side temperatures are higher due to the slight increase in turbo boost from the three inch exhaust.
where the design was refined in preparation for full-scale manufacture. With the design finalised, the CAD files were put to work in HPD’s CNC mill. The end tanks of HPD intercoolers were CNC machined from billet aluminium, then the core, tanks, brackets and inlet/outlet were TIG-welded into a lightweight, durable, uniform structure. Unlike the crimped-on tanks of OEM intercoolers, HPD says this construction method meant there are fewer potential weak points in the system where leaks can develop over time. The first intercooler made from the CAD design was measured on a precision jig to ensure its dimensions were correct. Once these measurements were recorded, it was time to install the unit on the vehicle and unsurprisingly, says HPD, it fit perfectly.
Completing the kit The next task was to complete the kit with ancillary items such as hoses, alloy piping, clamps, fittings and fasteners. Unlike many aftermarket kits, HPD says its products come with everything required for a bolt-in replacement of the OEM intercooler. 22
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PRODUCT R&D
Rubber hoses are largely replaced by durable hard alloy piping that won’t perish or split, with high quality silicon hose where flexibility is required. HPD explains its kits also come with comprehensive fitting instructions that make installation straightforward for professionals and enthusiasts alike. With all elements of the kit measured and defined, the Landcruiser headed off to the dyno for testing and a tune to make the most of the extra airflow that was now available. Rolling on HPD’s 4WD dyno with the HPD Series 2 intercooler and a new three-inch exhaust, HPD reports the Cruiser now peaks at 124.7kW, an 18 percent increase over stock, while torque is also up to almost 400Nm. The company reports that these gains come purely from the engine’s improved breathing.
Making the most of it HPD says the next step was a HPD ECU remap to make the most of the extra air coming in through the intercooler.
This leaned out the mixture, so returning it to close to stock levels and raising the turbo boost to a peak of around 22psi delivers 162.9kW, more than 50 percent better than stock, with torque around 650Nm. In this case, HPD says it is the temperature readings they are most interested in. Before the tune, the air temperatures on the way into the engine held steady at around 25 degrees Celsius, even when the engine was pushed hard – 20 degrees cooler than stock. Crucially, after the tune, HPD reports that when the extra turbo boost raises the temperatures on the way into the intercooler to more than 130 degrees under load, the air temperatures on the way out never top 30 degrees. In the real world – when towing, driving in tough conditions and extreme heat – it is this improvement that will provide performance and protection in the long term, it says. For more from HPD, visit www.hpdiesel.com.au
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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BREMTEC BRAKES REDARC RELEASES PRODUCT UPDATE JOIN COOLDRIVE Redarc has renamed its Encapsulated Power Diode to Encapsulated Protection Device RANGE CoolDrive has been newly named as a master distributor for Bremtec products
Bremtec’s range of aftermarket passenger car and light commercial vehicle brake pads, discs and sensors has joined CoolDrive Auto Parts’ extensive range. CoolDrive now offers a range of brake pads and discs for local and European models through six key branches initially, in Eagle Farm (Brisbane), Sunshine (Melbourne), Canberra (ACT), Kings Park (Sydney), Perth (WA) and Adelaide (SA). The Bremtec range will then be progressively rolled out across the 30-strong CoolDrive Auto Parts branches in Australia and New Zealand over the next 12 months. “Brake pads and discs are among the most common components that need replacement in modern cars and commercial vehicles,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said.
Redarc explains that the Encapsulated Protection Device (EPDK-001) is more than just a high-grade power diode as it is an engineered solution suitable for use in the application and rated at seven Amps for both 12 and 24V applications. It is totally encapsulated with qualified terminations and a sealed connector.
The EPDK-001 has been engineered to be installed in the Trailer Stop Lamp circuit, adjacent the trailer socket, to support the installation of the Electric Brake Controllers on vehicles where ‘back-feed’ of 12V (during Tow-Pro Manual Override) may interfere with the vehicle onboard driver assistance systems; and to minimise the heat build-up when the part is conducting maximum current. When installed correctly, Redarc says the EPDK-001 ensures reliable and correct trailer braking and trailer stop lamp illumination when the vehicle brakes are applied or the Tow-Pro Manual Override is applied. It supports 12V and 24V applications capable of supporting a maximum continuous current of seven Amps at a maximum ambient temperature of 85°C. For more from Redarc, visit www.redarc.com.au
GEARWRENCH INTRODUCES DRIVE BOLT BITER With up to 10x longer impact life GearWrench says it has now launched what it calls the next step in socket technology: the Drive Bolt Biter. Available in three set sizes (28 pieces, 15 pieces and eight pieces), GearWrench says the Bolt Biter Impact Extraction Set is made for the mechanic who expects the best from their tools.
“Drivers are now looking for a softer feel through the brake pedal, which has prompted manufacturers to move towards softer, fasterwearing compounds to meet these demands. “Bremtec’s range of brake components offers the right mix of quality and durability, together with a wide range of fitments, at an affordable price point. “We are excited to bring the range into the CoolDrive fold, plus to have two of the industry’s most knowledgeable braking specialists, Victor Makrievski and Steve Kreti work hand-in-hand with our team.” The Bremtec range joins an extensive and everexpanding catalogue of automotive brake product offerings at CoolDrive, which is set to include the Fremax brand in December this year. For more information on the Bremtec range visit www.bremtec.com.au or call CoolDrive on 03 9896 7300. 26
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Featuring a dynamic bi-directional design for the simple removal or tightening of damaged fasteners, coupled with a tapered entry to facilitate an easier seat on a damaged fastener, the Bolt Biter is designed to make the job, and the life of its user, easier. The “embodiment of durability”, the GearWrench Bolt Biter is coated in black oxide, for superior corrosion resistance. GearWrench says it offers up to ten times longer impact life, and up to five times greater torque output than the competition, which means trade professionals can expect both longevity and performance from their new socket set. Host to a square drive with hex base for use with an impact gun, ratchet, wrench or pliers, the Bolt Biter Impact Extraction Set is as versatile as it is hard-wearing. Made from chrome molybdenum alloy steel (Cr-Mo) for exceptional strength and longevity, this dynamic socket set is as strong as it gets, says Gearwrench. With dual-sized sockets designed to work with both SAE and metric fasteners, and high-visibility laseretched markings for quick size identification, GearWrench says its Drive Bolt Biter Impact Extraction Socket Set is made to anticipate needs, outperform and outlast the competition at every turn. For more information, visit www.gearwrench.com.au
PRODUCTS
INTRODUCING SPRINKLE A new powerful powder floor degreaser cleaner Scrubbing the grease off floors is a tiresome task, and one that requires a good-quality cleaner. With lots of degreasers on the market, and with 99 percent of them being a liquid base and a lot of them caustic, Euca says it has been working long and hard to make an economical and ecological alternative that will save you money. Sometimes, no matter how much degreaser you use, the grease just refuses to lift off your workshop floor or walls. There are a few reasons this may be happening, but most likely, your liquid cleaning product is just not strong enough being diluted, or has a surfactant added making it foam and slippery but not helping you clean. Sprinkle is a powder floor-degreaser which is designed to safely clean and remove grease from floors and walls without the negative effect of chemical-based products. It is made to be used through triple interceptor oil and grease removal systems and Euca says it will bring the worst floor back to near new clean concrete.
Finding a cleaning product that doesn’t contain chemicals and toxins can be tricky thanks to the scientific jargon of labels, says Euca, but everyone knows what fruit is and we all understand what citric acid and orange-peel oil is – which is exactly what Sprinkle is manufactured with. The outside matters too, says Euca, stating that when countless bottles of single-use plastics are thrown away each day, it is important to know that one box of Sprinkle powder is equivalent to 10 plastic bottles of liquid cleaner. Sprinkle is available in new non-plastic 4kg and 8kg Eco boxes constructed of cardboard with a corn starch liner bag which will break down in soil or compost. You can either use your current Euca plastic tub to refill or use your own container. The product is non-caustic and will not corrode the surfaces you use it on. It is also safe on skin and won’t cause burns or damage to your work wear. It is also designed to leave a totally non-slip surface, as safety is of the utmost importance
when cleaning floors – not only to eliminate the risk of falling or sliding along the surface while cleaning, but to also remove the common issue of still slippery surfaces caused by liquid caustic degreasers that can leave floors with a film on the surface, making them slightly slippery. For more information, visit www.proudproducts.com.au
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PRODUCTS
SETTING A NEW STANDARD Bendix Sports and Performance Disc Rotors Bendix says that behind every Bendix Ultimate Disc Brake Rotor is a company with vast experience as an original equipment manufacturer with “leading edge technology, precision engineering and unsurpassed quality standards.� It says the Bendix Ultimate Sports and Performance Disc Rotors have evolved from this environment with improved heat dissipation, noise dampening characteristics and higher thermal conductivity to remove heat and reduce fade which all provides stronger, smoother and safer braking. The new Bendix rotors are said to perfectly complement the existing Bendix range and incorporate innovative technologies such as High Carbon Metallurgy for increased braking performance and stopping power; Diamond Tip Slots and V-Shaped Dimples, each designed specifically to expel gasses, dirt and water; and SwiftFit Coating, a protective zinc coating which reportedly allows for faster and easier installation, unlimited shelf life, the elimination of corrosion and thus long term good looks.
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Bendix Ultimate Sports and Performance Disc Rotors are said to have the highest level of precision engineering based on OEM specifications for size, diameter and hole spacing for the perfect fit. Diamond Tip Slots are specifically designed to be bi-directional to achieve efficiency in expelling water, grit and water quickly. Bendix says this precision balanced pattern of the new Ultimate Rotors has evolved from racing experience, allowing the driver to feel absolute control in hard braking with even friction and instant response. It states that the proven High Carbon Metallurgy in the Ultimate Discs provides improved thermal stability and conductivity, reducing the chance of warping under extreme heat conditions. The higher carbon formulation reportedly increases the rotor strength at elevated temperatures while the high wear resistance from this increased strength increases its durability whilst also providing improved noise suppression. Further, Bendix explains that the SwiftFit coating, with its corrosion inhibitors, not only makes pre-
cleaning unnecessary but also provides a great look that will not degrade over time. It says there is no longer a requirement to clean anti-rust oil or coating from the surface where uncoated rotors can succumb to corrosion that can result in vibration over time. The Bendix ventilation system is engineered to evenly channel cool air into the rotor, expelling hot air faster thus increasing resistance to thermal cracks and minimising distortion, explains Bendix. Vehicle applications for the new Bendix Ultimate Disc Brake Rotors are said to be extensive. The full catalogue listing can be downloaded from www.bendix.com.au. For more information, Freecall the Bendix Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas, or email brakeservice@bendix.com.au
PRODUCTS
ULTIMATE PERFORMANCE FILTRATION FRAM Filters says its racing filter range offers a premium performance and racing engine filtration option FRAM Filters says the newly released FRAM Racing Filter range provides maximum performance and durability for performance vehicles on the street while also meeting on-thetrack demands. Compatible with all engine oil formulations, FRAM Racing Filters reportedly combine strength and precision filtration to optimise their performance in the most demanding of high performance and racing conditions. FRAM Racing filters include a heavy-gauge tapping plate and an extra-thick steel casing to withstand the high pressure flexing caused by demanding driving conditions. The spiral-shaped centre tube in each FRAM Racing Filter provides protection against collapse, along with tough steel end caps which add even more durability. All FRAM Racing Filters also include a screenover 22psi filter bypass valve which provides additional protection against larger lubricant contaminants.
Used extensively in NASCAR racing across the United States and with applications to fit many classic and current high performance drag racing and circuit racing engines (including the Ford Mustang Coyote 5.0 Litre and GM, Nissan and Honda performance engine applications), FRAM Filters says the extensive FRAM Racing Filter range offers a premium quality, premium performance and racing engine filtration product option for high performance vehicle technicians and racing teams. The FRAM Racing filter range coverage includes a wide number of performance engine specifications including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan and Honda engines, including GM LS1 and LS6 applications. Filpro Automotive Managing Director, Australasia, Roger Lassen, said the FRAM Racing Filter range complements the brand’s comprehensive application coverage in Australia and New Zealand. “We are constantly approached about our high
performance and racing specification filtration products due to their long standing success internationally,” Roger said. “We are delighted to make these globally renowned filtration products available to Australian and New Zealand high performance vehicle technicians and racing teams.” The FRAM Racing Filter range and the entire FRAM Filters aftermarket replacement range is available in Australia from official FRAM distributors including ADRAD and SWD. To locate your closest distributor contact Filpro Automotive Australia State Sales Manager, Alex Rossiter, on 0400 878 837 or 08 8193 9675. For additional FRAM Filters product information, visit www.framfilters.com.au
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PRODUCTS
ILLUMINATE YOUR WAY WITH LED LED Autolamps has released a new range of heavy-duty rechargeable lamps LED Autolamps says the entire range offers fast USB charging with a low power discharge and maximum brightness as well as built-in toughness with basic ingress protection, tough polycarbonate lenses, and oil and chemical resistant bodies. The products are “super-efficient” with a cool 6500K light and a CRI of over 80 crucial for correct colour rendering and are manufactured to CE and RoHS with no hazardous materials. Further, the range is offered with a two-year peace of mind warranty and presented in a single retail blister pack with USB charging cables included.
HH420 Workshop Inspection Wand The HH420 workshop inspection wand has a 250mm flexible neck extension as well as a super-bright, heavy-duty build. Stand out features include a super strong magnet and a nifty fold-out hanging hook for added flexibility with hands-free operation. The wand features a battery-saving economy mode with a powerful main light, all easily controlled by an on/off dimming wheel which gives you precise control of the light output from 50 lumens to 700 lumens at full power. It also comes with a top-mounted torch for those hard to get at places.
WTB100 and WTB115 Mini Dual-Beam Rechargeable Work Lights LED Autolamps says that with these lights, no task will be left unlit with dual 20-degree spot and 120° flood beams and four power levels. Level one is the directed spot beam with 250 lumens and 400 Lumens output, respectively.
only is a super-strong magnet but has the added benefit of a nifty handhold for added convenience.
PL175 Penlight
The next three levels control the flood lamp with incredibly bright outputs of 100 lumens, 350 lumens, and 700 lumens for the smaller WTB100 as well as 350 lumens, 700 lumens, and a whopping 1400 lumens for the larger of the two (the WTB115).
The slim and compact PL175 penlight is the perfect size to fit neatly in your pocket using the steel pocket clip and is bright enough for quick and instant convenience. The light features highly efficient COB LEDs, outputting 200 lumens for the main light, as well a handy top torch for those hard to see places. Hands-free operation is made simple with a super-strong bottom magnet that has the added flexibility of a 360° ball mounted base directing the light exactly where you need it.
Getting the light exactly where you need it is easier with a 180° tilt-adjustable base that not
For further information, visit www.ledautolamps.com for your local distributor or call 03 9466 7075.
CENTURY LAUNCHES NEW BATTERY MONITOR Century says the new monitor helps your customers to avoid a breakdown Would you like to help your customers keep a closer eye on their batteries? Century Batteries says its new BM12V Battery Monitor takes the guess work out of battery monitoring by providing users with a live view of how their vehicle’s battery is performing at any given moment. More importantly, Century says it will also warn them of an impending battery failure – giving them a chance to return to your workshop for battery replacement, instead of being left stranded by the roadside. Backed by a two-year warranty and suitable for use on all 12V flooded, AGM and GEL lead-acid batteries, the Century BM12V battery monitor can be offered as a convenient upsell with any new battery purchase. Century says it is easy to install, and can be used to monitor the performance of starting batteries in cars, 4x4s, SUVs, trucks, motorcycles and boats. It is also said to be ideal for monitoring the state-of-charge and power usage in Deep 34
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
Cycle applications like campers and caravans. Century’s BM12V Battery Monitor uses Bluetooth to wirelessly connect to your phone, via a freeto-download iOS and Android app. The BM12V will automatically sync with your mobile device and provide a live view of the battery’s state of charge, along with cranking test results every time the vehicle is started. It can also test the vehicle’s charging system and notifies the user of any potential issues that may affect battery life. The IP65 rating means the unit is dust tight and protected against water ingress, making it ideal for under-bonnet applications where dust and water splashes are commonplace. A connection range of up to 10-metres also means the monitor can be installed in hard-to-reach areas within the vehicle. With an RRP of $59.95, Century says its BM12V Battery Monitor is competitively priced and ideal to offer as an up-sell with any new battery sale. Century says that by giving customers the power
to monitor their batteries directly, it will also help build trust with the product and your business, increasing the chances that they’ll return in the future when the battery is due for replacement. Century Batteries has been designing and manufacturing batteries in Australia since 1928 and says that for more than 90 years, it has continuously worked to deliver a range of products better suited to Australia’s extreme climate and harsh conditions. For more information on Century’s BM12V Battery Monitor, visit www.centurybatteries.com.au or contact your Century Batteries Specialist on 1300 362 287.
PRODUCTS
VALVOLINE EASY POUR BOTTLE Innovative new container means no more mess while improved labeling helps customers identify which oil they need Generally, oil comes in bottles and it needs to be poured into the engine. A seemingly simple task, however doing this without spilling, glugging, missing and messing has challenged oil changers since oil changing began. Valvoline says the solution to messy oil changes was to develop a new bottle design that dealt with the issue of glugging and spilling while utilising better ergonomics to make the physical task of pouring oil into the engine easier. In order to develop the bottle, it took Valvoline and its partners three years and 41 prototypes before the final design was approved. The Valvoline Easy Pour bottle was developed utilising the following features: • Wide Neck – the 45mm neck allows for the easy flow of oil. A bigger neck allows enough oil to stream out in a steady flow without glugs or spurts to make pouring more accurate and efficient.
• Ant-Glug Tube – built into the top of the bottle, the Anti-Glug Tube is a key feature of easy pour technology. The tube allows air to flow back into the bottle, creating a smooth continuous stream of oil with every pour. • Centralised Handle – using a perfectly placed centralised handle, it seamlessly aligns the bottle’s centre of gravity. This facilitates easier handling and one-handed pours. • Advanced SynPower labelling system – finding the right oil is now even easier with the new labelling system. The label has
been decluttered and now contains only the oil grade and primary application. By using coloured caps and coloured panels, the synthetic oils are now grouped into identifiable categories based on their applications. An added benefit of the bottle is that it is easier to pour in restricted spaces as the bottle is more stable, it can be held with one hand and does not require as much physical movement to complete the pour. For more information, visit www.valvoline.com.au
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NEW ROTARY WHEEL SERVICE EQUIPMENT RANGE Now available from Burson Equipment One of Australia’s leading automotive workshop equipment suppliers, Burson Equipment, says it now exclusively offers automotive repairers a totally new level of wheel service equipment excellence with the new Rotary wheel service equipment range. The new Rotary wheel service equipment range reportedly brings the world’s latest technology, build quality and productivity boosting wheel service products to Australia’s automotive repairers and wheel/tyre specialists. Burson Equipment says Rotary has forged a well-earned reputation for total quality across the decades with its “unparalleled range of outstanding lift products, making it the world’s most trusted in that field,” stating that the same dedication to total quality, reliability and industry leading technology can be found with the Rotary wheel service product range of wheel balancers, tyre changers and alignment systems from Burson Equipment. The Rotary wheel balancer range offers a balancer for the vast majority of wheels and workshops from the smallest to the largest. Burson Equipment says the Rotary tyre changer range is one of the most comprehensive in the industry and the company’s premium quality wheel alignment machines allow technicians to complete accurate alignments in as little as 15 minutes, ensuring significant increases in workshop productivity and profitability. Manufactured in Italy, Burson Equipment’s new Rotary wheel service equipment range includes:
Rotary R348 Electronic 3D Wheel Balancer • Automatic sonar rim width measurement • Automatic distance and diameter input via internal data arm • Automatic AluS programs • Auto stop of the wheel to the unbalanced position • Automatic program features for car, light truck and motorcycle wheels • Fast six second cycle time • Electric brake system • Durable weight tray with ample storage for wheel weights • Accommodates rim widths from 1.5 inches to 22 inches and rim diameters from 10 inches to 30 inches
Rotary R355 Electronic 3D Wheel Balancer • All of the features of the R348 model with automatic AluS1, 2, Start, Start 1 and 2 and Dynamic balancing programs • Integrated laser blade for weight placement positioning 38
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
• Integrated LED internal wheel lighting system • LCD monitor with linked keyboard • Interactive inputs to guide technicians through all phases of the balancing process • Multi-user functionality
Rotary R441 Automatic Tyre Changer • Fully automatic operation • Pneumatic tilt back and clamping system up to 24 inches diameter • Pneumatic PLUS83H low profile bead pressing device and bead breaker system • Two speed turntable controlled by rotation pedal • Pedal operated tubeless tyre inflation system • Spring loaded hexagonal shaft with pneumatic locking device • Removable pedal unit • Plastic jaw and mounting head protectors • Heavy duty construction
Rotary R643 High Performance Wheel Changer • Top of the range pneumatic tilt back machine with all features of the R441 model plus up to 26 inches external clamping capacity • Double acting bead breaker system • Heavy duty horizontal shaft on tilt back arm to ensure maximum rigidity • Extra-wide heavy duty cabinet
Rotary R1060 8-CCD Wheel Alignment System • Multi-axle 8-CCD passenger car alignment system with an Australian and international vehicle database of more than 90,000 vehicle makes and models • Wireless infra-red transmission among measuring heads • Bluetooth transmission between measuring heads and the control unit • 3D animated instructions • Automatically measures lowered vehicles • Quick run out compensation
• Customer databank capacity up to 20,000 jobs • Three point alloy clamps with eight to 24 inches rim capacity • LCD monitor and Windows based PC operating system • Turntables, steering and brake pedal locks • Completely mobile console housing • Optional STDA14 calibration jig
Rotary R1080 3D Wheel Aligner • All of the features of the R1080 model plus the ingenious “Bay Saver” tower free system to maximise workshop space • Exclusive and light weight 3D targets utilising solid vision technology through high resolution fixed cameras for high precision • Automatic lift level compensation • Remote control ability using integrated keyboard • LED repeaters for easy under-vehicle reading of adjustment process • Fast eight second alignment readings • Optional STDA113 calibration jig. According to Burson Equipment National Sales Manager, Jim Santef, there is no doubt that the new Rotary wheel service equipment range represents an entirely new level of wheel servicing efficiency and productivity for Australian automotive repairers and wheel/tyre specialists seeking to future proof their businesses. “The most successful automotive workshop owners and managers are not just seeking replacement wheel service equipment, they are seeking an investment towards the long term future success of their businesses,” Jim said. “Our new Rotary wheel service equipment range offers the latest technology along with the peace of mind of many years reliable service.” To find out more, contact your local Burson store on 1300 287 766 or visit www.burson.com.au/trade-centre/ equipment
PRODUCTS
BOOST YOUR PICOSCOPE A range of accessories for your PicoScope are available from Australian distributor Mount Auto Equip Services PicoScope’s award-winning automotive diagnostic oscilloscope kits are available in a variety of different forms with a variety of accessories included. Mount Auto Equip Services, the exclusive Australian Pico Automotive distributor, has provided the following look at a few of the most popular optional accessories you can add to your Pico kit to offer more advanced diagnostic capability.
The WPS500x Pico pressure transducer Master kit With the “unparalleled resolution and accuracy” of the WPS500X Automotive Pressure Transducer, Mount Auto Equip Services says you can perform quick and accurate pressure analysis on many automotive systems. It says this “awesome” accessory kit opens the door to a number of additional different vehicle tests with your Pico including exhaust pressure pulses, vacuum pulses, fuel rail pulses, crankcase pulses, common rail injector back leak pulses, in cylinder compression waveform plus more. The extremely fast 100µs response time from 0 percent to 90 percent of full scale and
sensitivity down to about 0.07 psi (5 mbar) provides the superior waveform detail achieved using this transducer, allowing you to measure compression, airflow, valve timing and back pressure with minimal intrusion.
The Noise Vibration Harshness accessory kit This kit allows access to the NVH software menu in the Pico Diagnostics program. This specifically designed software allows you to capture a vibration recording on a road test in a short period. You can then simply navigate through the software to help you pinpoint the vibration at its source or determine the transfer path working its way through to the driver and cabin. The software requests information to be added to the software wizard prior to the road test, and then the software makes the mathematical calculations for you, simply guiding you to the source, for example, tyre or wheel, propshaft or an engine related vibration. Your captures of before and after allow you to prove to the customer a reduction in vibration by ‘x’ amount in the form of a printout or saved file to email etc.
CAN (Control Area Network) Test Box kit Mount Auto Equip Services says this smart OBDII 16 pin breakout box is proudly designed and assembled in Australia, and is the only mandated Control Area Network test box trusted by many of the worlds OEMs, “with zero failures – a real point of fact and pride.” Genuine CTB kits have been rigorously tested by the world’s largest OEMs, Tafes, training and government institutions and aftermarket
workshops. It can be safely used on light and heavy vehicles, trucks and earthmoving equipment; simply plug into the standard OBDII 16 pin adaptor on vehicle (12 or 24v). Designed to interface with Pico’s award winning CAN test software, Mount Auto Equip Services says the CTB is innovative Australian technology by a local high-tech company and warns that you should beware of the cheap inferior knock offs – stating that “quality is not expensive, it is priceless” while encouraging customers to support locally manufactured Australian companies that have understood local diagnostic conditions for more than 30 years. For more information, please contact Mount Auto Equip Services on 02 9905 8055 or sales@maeservices.com.au
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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GOSS HOSE MAKES TI AUTOMOTIVE MUSTANG PERFORMANCE PUMP THE GRADE Goss offers a large range of SAE compliant LAUNCHED hose suitable for many applications Applications for the Goss hose include fuel, emission, heater, transmission, power steering and vaccuum hose. Goss explains that it is crucial to the safe operation of the vehicle to use the correct hose and clamps specific to each application. The Goss Brake Vacuum hose is a good example of that, it says, explaining that the Goss brake vacuum hose is compliant with SAE J1403 which is a requirement by law. The complete specifications are as follows: • SAE J1403 (L) light duty, Class B. • 9mm / 11/32” ID or • 12mm / 15/32” ID
This hose is for use in Light Duty vehicle applications. It is reportedly resistant to heat, oil, grease, abrasion, weathering and ozone: • Operating temperature range: -40°C min to 125°C max • Intermittent use temperature: 135°C max • Working pressure: 150psi / 10bar The Goss brake vacuum hose is intended for use in the power braking systems of vehicles or as connections on vacuum lines of vehicles or systems thereof. Goss warns that using a non-compliant hose or incorrect type such as J1402 9.5mm ID or 12.7mm ID hose in place of J1403 applications may damage the outer cover. As the prime function of the outer cover is to protect the internal reinforcement webbing from the environment, the internal reinforcement webbing can also be damaged and risk a vacuum leak in your braking system. Using a hose with incorrect specifications may also affect your roadworthiness and you can potentially risk a fine if applicable, it says. Goss carries a J1403 compliant hose in various lengths ranging from one meter packs to 30 meter dispensers. To view the full range, as well as a full list of specifications, visit www.goss.com.au 42
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Available now from Premier Auto Trade
Premier Auto Trade says it has introduced a market first: a drop-in high-performance fuel module from TI Automotive engineered specifically for the newest generation of Ford Mustangs The new TU2038HP Fuel Module (EFP-529) delivers high-pressure, high-flow performance designed for direct fit drop in plug and play operation on the 2015 – 2018 (V,VI) Ford Mustang. Featuring TI Automotive’s award-winning Dual Channel Single Stage (DCSS) fuel pump technology and active fill system to support additional pump output, these modules are E85 Flex Fuel compatible enabling up to 650HP on naturally aspirated applications. Premier Auto Trade says that for decades, Walbro automotive fuel pumps have been manufactured by TI Automotive. Walbro Automotive Fuel Pumps are now TI Automotive branded carrying a legacy of more
than 60 years of manufacturing the most popular drop-in fuel pumps, with the same performance, quality and reliability that you have come to know and expect, says Premier Auto Trade. TI Automotive products are part of the Premier Auto Trade Racing and Performance range. The PATRAP range includes products from leading brands including Bosch, Pierburg, Denso, Raceworks, BMC Air Filter, Haltech, VDO, Turbosmart and TI Automotive. Premier Auto Trade distributes products throughout Australia via a network of specialised resellers and leading automotive groups. For more information, visit www.premierautotrade.com.au
TURBOSMART ROLLS OUT GEN-V WASTEGATE Turbosmart is formally switching over production of all 50mm and 60mm Wastegates to its new Gen-V platform Over the last 18 months, Turbosmart has supported both the new and old wastegate ranges to give its customers time to adjust to the new product. Turbosmart says this has allowed it to keep investing in its Gen-V output at its manufacturing facility in Sydney. It says that it is now at the point where it has ceased production of the “Fourth Gen” Pro-Gate 50, Pro-Gate 50 Lite and Power-Gate 60. The new Gen-V gates offer many advantages to their predecessors while being a direct fit replacement with the superseded units. The Gen-V range introduces greater modularity across the range meaning, for example, a 50mm size gate can be mated with a 38mm size actuator. This new functionality allows the same benefits of the superseded Pro-Gate Lite range, where smaller actuators can be applied to larger
bodies for applications requiring tighter spaces to be worked with. Additionally, Turbosmart says the new Gen-V range introduces several benefits including strap type v-band clamps, all springs included, 1/8” NPT pressure ports, liquid cooling, indexable actuator housing, greater thermal performance and higher flow rates. Turbosmart says it should be noted that spares for these products are still being supported and the Gen 4 38mm, 40mm and 45mm gates will still be available for the next six to twelve months. Those with questions are encouraged to contact Turbosmart on sales@turbosmart.com.au
PRODUCTS
NEW PHILIPS LED WORK LIGHT SERIES Perform detailed work in comfort The new professional LED work light series from Philips has been designed to provide optimal clarity and vision for your workspace, while drastically reducing strain on your eyes with natural white light, as if you were working under the sunlight. The series comprises of seven distinct products that feature powerful LEDs and wide beams to illuminate every detail with precision, guiding you throughout the long hours. Philips says its LED work light series includes high power LEDs with a high lumen output to guarantee more visibility and a wide beam angle that evenly distributes light. The LEDs come in 6000K true daylight color temperature, as
if you were working outdoors on a bright sunny day, enhancing the comfort and accuracy of your vision. Whether in a garage or in a workshop, various chemicals, solvents, and grease can impact the LED quality. Philips says its LED work light series has been designed to withstand even the most extreme conditions. The lights are water, dirt, and dust proof according to IP54 and IP67 standards, international standards that define the level of protection against particles. Meanwhile, the light housings are impact and shock resistant, making them exceptionally durable for different environments. The lights are equipped with hooks, clips, detachable cables, or magnets, freeing both your hands as you work to repair your vehicles. The hands-free lighting also includes beams that are wide, focused, and shadow-free, for maximum visibility and focus. The Philips LED work light series includes seven products, each designed to meet various needs, from simple inspections to thorough
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maintenance and repair. Products cover penlights and inspection lights to rechargeable work lights and multi-directional lighting systems. Batteries are built with a long life span, lasting from five to 11 hours, allowing you to work with minimal interruptions. For more information, visit www.philips.com.au/automotive
PRODUCTS
SMOOTH MOVES IN THE NEW WORLD OF ELECTRIC VEHICLES Castrol says it is at the forefront of developments in the “e-fluid” space Electric Vehicles (EVs) may not be the new kid on the block anymore, but as the automotive industry increasingly focuses on the development of hybrid and fully electric vehicles, consumers too are standing up and taking notice. Based on the latest outlook from the International Energy Agency, it is anticipated that by 2040 there may be as many as 280 million EVs on the road which brings with it a host of new challenges for manufacturers, mechanics, and consumers alike. While not requiring engine oil in a traditional sense, EVs do require a range of fluids to operate effectively. As the engineering in electric vehicles evolves, it is creating new technical challenges in the rapidly evolving area of transmission fluids, battery coolants and greases. “Many hybrid and electric vehicles need different transmission fluids because electrical components, such as electric motors, are in
contact with the lubricant and the transmission oil is operating at higher temperatures,” Castrol Global Driveline Product Development Manager, Matthias Donner, said. “In addition, the engines run at a much higher revolution which increases stresses on the oil, the torque on gears and bearings is higher and the oil needs to be compatible with components which conduct electricity.” Castrol says that as a world-leader in lubricants, and a partner of many of the world’s leading OEMs, it is at the forefront of developments in the “e-fluid” space. By working closely with vehicle and component manufacturers, Castrol says it is able to identify and solve the emerging engineering problems of EVs to make these vehicles more efficient and increase its range. It says examples include: • building the efficiency of the electrical motor and reducing the risk of breakdowns by
optimising the electrical properties of the gear oil; • preventing corrosion of electrical components through good protection of copper parts; and • improving the cooling capabilities of the electrical engine to prevent overheating. “The rapid pace of development with the emergence of hybrid and electric cars means we need to work fast to find solutions,” Matthias said. “I find it very rewarding to be at the forefront of the engineering technology which is shaping the future of transport.” For more from Castrol, visit www.castrol.com.au
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ULTIMATE 4WD BRAKE UPGRADE KIT RELEASED BY BENDIX The kit is presented in a practical heavy duty touring case Bendix Brakes has launched its ‘Ultimate 4WD Brake Upgrade Kit’ with advanced brake pads and rotors, braided lines and a host of ancillary items to make for a smooth change over. The comprehensive kit includes specially compounded high performance ceramic material brake pads for increased stopping power in extreme conditions, plus the latest Bendix Ultimate Rotors designed and developed specifically for Australia’s demanding conditions. Bendix says the new rotors are manufactured to the highest level of precision engineering based on OEM specifications and incorporate innovative technology, such as high carbon metallurgy for increased braking performance plus special diamond tip slots and a special bi-directional pillar design to quickly and efficiently expel gases, water, dust and grit. Together this provides the driver with absolute control when braking in extreme conditions with instant response and even friction, says Bendix. The outcome from the high performance brake kit is its sensational stopping power especially under load conditions, says Bendix. Measured
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in a direct comparison with OEM brakes at 100KM/H, it revealed an incredible improvement in stopping distance of up to five metres for the vehicle fitted with the Bendix Ultimate Brake Upgrade Kit. Bendix says exhaustive testing also revealed a firm brake pedal that won’t over expand under pressure, a reduction in brake dust and braking noise along with thermal stability in high temperatures and resistance to brake-fade. Easy to fit braided brake hoses with a protective sleeve that won’t expand under pressure are included, each designed and manufactured in compliance with SAE J1401 specifications. The kit’s heavy duty touring case contains everything for a smooth changeover to the new high performance 4WD Ceramic Brake Pads, Ultimate Rotors and Braided Brake Hoses. There is also Bendix heavy duty brake fluid, brake cleaner and parts degreaser, Ceramasil brake parts lubricant and brake clean rotor wipes. To help you celebrate once the upgrade conversion is installed there is also a Bendix stubbie holder so you can enjoy a cold one.
Bendix says the new kit will fit the vehicle application without any modifications; is compliant with international standards and will not impinge on the vehicle warranty. Ideally suited to fit a range of the latest 4WD vehicles such as Ranger, Hilux, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, Volkswagen and more, the Bendix Ultimate 4WD Upgrade Kit is available from leading automotive, 4WD outlets and Bendix stockists at a recommended price of approximately $1,199.00 (incl. GST). For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au
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REACHING NEW HEIGHTS Bilstein has jointly developed active suspension struts with Mercedes-Benz for its E-Active Body Control suspension Active suspension E-Active Body Control enables the new Mercedes-Benz GLE to reach an extraordinarily high level of comfort and is perhaps the world’s most intelligent SUV suspension, says Bilstein. “The best or nothing” – the Mercedes-Benz brand claim obviously leaves little room for interpretation. Especially when it comes to comfort, the engineers from Swabia don’t do things by halves. With the newly developed active suspension E-Active Body Control in the GLE, Mercedes-Benz raises the level of comfort to a new level, says Bilstein, which states that the active suspension struts it developed jointly with Mercedes-Benz contribute significantly to the performance of the suspension. With the active suspension optionally available for the Mercedes-Benz GLE, it’s not just the spring and damper forces on each wheel that can be individually controlled, explains Bilstein. The system also allows for the active stimulation or stabilisation of the vehicle structure with the shock absorbers. “It’s like a combination of a conventional controlled shock absorber and an active hydraulic
cylinder,” said Adrian Hassel of Bilstein’s Technology and Innovation division. Each wheel is fitted with a damper inside the axle, which has an adjustable damping valve and a hydraulic accumulator on both working chambers. The damper is connected to an intelligent motorpump unit via hydraulic pipes. By controlling the motor-pump unit, oil can be displaced in such a way that a pressure difference is created within the damper, which quickly builds up an active force. “The main focus of the suspension is really on optimising comfort. However, it also offers dynamic advantages over the standard suspension,” Adrian said. “The Bilstein expert is particularly impressed by the special curve tilting function – in “Curve” driving mode, the GLE actively tilts in three stages, similar to a motorcycle. “By actively stimulating the body, this curve function, when activated, raises the suspension springs on the outside of the curve when cornering to minimise centrifugal forces on the passengers. “The Curve function is an add-on that has only become possible with the active shock absorbers.”
Thanks to a special camera, another innovative feature is possible, the so-called “Road Surface Scan” – the suspension reacts to bumps detected by the camera, controls the active suspension struts and largely compensates for unevenness when driving over. “The system can be used to stabilise the bodywork when cornering, driving dynamically around bends or simply straight ahead on uneven roads in order to minimise the acceleration on the passengers,” Adrian said. Together with the “Road Surface Scan” and the “Curve” function, Bilstein says “E-Active Body Control” enables a truly extraordinarily high level of comfort and thus emphasises MercedesBenz’s claim to the world’s most intelligent SUV suspension. For more from Bilstein, visit www.bilstein.com.au
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SCHAEFFLER EXPANDS FAG CHASSIS RANGE The range now includes wheel bearings, steering and suspension parts, drive shafts and strut mountings Schaeffler’s Automotive Aftermarket division has reorganised its portfolio for chassis repair. The Aftermarket specialist has expanded its range of products under the FAG brand with steering and suspension parts, drive shafts and strut mountings. Together with the existing wheel bearing program, the company says it offers a market-leading portfolio for professional chassis repair under its FAG brand. Schaeffler explained that this move is a consequence of its wide-ranging quality strategy,
which it says is reflected in its products for the spare parts market when it comes to material selection, development and assembly, as well as tailor-made repair solutions. “By using durable and performance-enhancing coating and sealing technologies, we offer consistently high quality throughout our entire portfolio,” Schaeffler Automotive Aftermarket President Product Management and R&D, Dr Robert Felger, said. “Each individual component, down to the smallest accessory part, is developed and tested according to the quality standards of Schaeffler.” In fact, under its FAG brand, Schaeffler has more than 130 years of experience in developing and producing components and advanced chassis modules for original-equipment manufacturers.
Available under the FAG brand – control arm repair solutions that include all necessary accessory parts for reliable and efficient chassis repair.
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Schaeffler says it demonstrates its commitment to developing future-oriented chassis technologies as well, with innovative products like the electric roll stabiliser and the Intelligent Corner Module. The Schaeffler quality concept also reportedly
TPU boot material and a zinc flake surfacing ensure FAG tie rod ends from Schaeffler are highly resistant to corrosion and external influences like heat, cold, dirt and moisture.
includes enabling garages to conduct efficient and dependable repair. As such, Schaeffler says it has enhanced its portfolio with numerous accessory parts, in response to the demands of garages. The FAG repair solutions contain all the necessary components as well as all required accessories, such as nuts and bolts – in the same quality as the replacement part. In this way, Schaeffler says garage customers can rely on receiving reliable high quality for repairs on the safety-relevant chassis – both in terms of parts and the repair procedures. For more information, visit Schaeffler’s REPXPERT technical portal at www.repxpert.com.au or call 1300 585 462.
PRODUCTS
SACHS ‘MAXES’ SUCCESS OF NEW HD SHOCK ABSORBER The range has now grown by more than 25 percent since its launch ZF Services Australia says the launch of the new Sachs Max range of heavy-duty shock absorbers for off-road, four-wheel-drive and utility vehicles has proved to be one of its most successful new product launches ever. Since the range’s official unveiling at the Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo (AAAE) in Melbourne in April, sales of the big-bore shock absorbers have more than tripled year-to-date.
“With the launch of the Sachs Max range, sales have grown exponentially. It’s apparent the market has been crying out for a high-quality, high-performance shock absorber like this and ZF Services Australia is proud to have listened and responded,” ZF Services Australia Head of IAM Oceania, Darren Leyshon, said. “The reaction from our customers and their end users has been extremely positive, including around the eye-catching and distinctive packing which offers ease of identification and greater consumer appeal. “The range has been strongly accepted across our three key customer segments, specifically fourwheel-drivers, trade workers and caravanners, and the plan is to continue to expand the range of available applications in sectors that are continuing to grow.” With fitments to suit the most popular 4x4 models on the Australian market, the Sachs Max range
has now grown by more than 25 percent since its launch to now include 67 applications, with more to come. ZF Services Australia says further proof to the design and quality of Sachs Max is that the range will shortly be introduced into Thailand, Malaysia and Indonesia, followed by other southeast Asian markets. It says Sachs Max shock absorbers incorporate larger pistons and cylinders, with this increased bore size resulting in a reduction in heat and improved consistency under repeated loads – with the practical result of this being better durability and a more comfortable and safer ride. For more information on the range, visit www.sachsmaxshocks.com.au
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TRW ELECTRIC BLUE BRAKE PAD NEW PREMIUM AIR SUSPENSION AWARDED INNOVATION PRIZE The TRW Electric Blue brake pad is the world’s first STRUTS FOR aftermarket brake pad for electric and hybrid 2016-2018 TESLA vehicles From Arnott Arnott, a industry leader in aftermarket air suspension products, has introduced a new, premium air suspension strut for the front of the 2016-2018 Tesla Model S w/AWD. The new strut is the first part for a Tesla model to be released by Arnott. The Arnott-engineered AS-3380 features a premium Eibach damper precisely tuned to ride like the OE.
TRW’s Electric Blue brake pad from ZF Aftermarket has won an Innovation Award in the “Parts, Equipment and Components (Replacement)” category at the international Equip Auto fair, which was held recently in Paris. The Equip Auto International Grands Prix for Automotive Innovation aims to select and reward the most innovative concepts, products and services presented by Equip Auto exhibitors and shine a light on the emerging technology in the automotive aftermarket. The TRW Electric Blue brake pad is reportedly the world’s first aftermarket brake pad for electric and hybrid vehicles.
The Tesla strut is designed, tested and assembled in the US with Tier One components including a multi-ply ContiTech air sleeve, long-lasting O-rings and bump stop, heavy-duty crimping rings and a CNC-machined top mount made from aircraft-quality aluminium. Arnott says the premium product maintains the auto-levelling functionality of the Tesla Model S, which includes lowering the vehicle using air suspension at higher speeds to be more aerodynamic. The universal strut, which fits both the left or right side of the vehicle, is backed by Arnott’s “industry-leading” warranty. Founded in 1989, Arnott Inc says it is a global leader in aftermarket air suspension products for luxury cars, trucks and SUVs offering an extensive line of affordable, high-quality, products for more than 800 automotive and motorcycle applications. Arnott explains that it provides its customers with a choice when repairing and replacing a failing air suspension system. Customers can choose between Arnott remanufactured struts that provide OE functionality, Arnott designed and assembled brand-new replacement air springs, struts, shocks, coil spring conversion kits or compressors, which it says are all reasonably priced. For more information, visit www.arnottindustries.com
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ZF Aftermarket explains it has been NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) tested and is proven to create less noise and vibration, which is of particular benefit to electric vehicles, due to the lack of engine noise. It says the product’s high level of innovation is coupled with demand-oriented service quality,
with TRW Electric Blue brake pads supplied with the appropriate accessories to promote quick fitment. According to ZF, the electrification of a vehicle’s driveline is an important lever for the company to contribute to the reduction of CO2 emissions. The technology group offers hybrid modules, plug-in hybrid transmissions, and electric drives for electric vehicles, including power electronics and system integration. ZF Aftermarket says that as a leading braking systems manufacturer in the global aftermarket, TRW delivers original equipment brake pads and discs to the world’s leading car companies, with the same exceptional quality applied to its aftermarket offerings - including Electric Blue. For more information, visit www.zf.com/au
ACL LAUNCHES NEW PERFORMANCE CATALOGUE The new catalogue was unveiled at SEMA ACL Bearing Company (Australia) Pty Ltd released its latest Performance Engine Bearing Catalogue RSAG20 at SEMA, Las Vegas on the 5th of November. ACL partner and 2018/2019 European Drift Masters and 2017/2018/2019 Formula Drift Champion James Deane was on hand to assist. ACL General Manager, Chris Brooks, advised ACL has a long and rich history in motorsport across most racing categories and said this continues with the recent addition of James Deane to the ACL Garage. “We are very proud to be partnering with James – not only is he a highly talented and successful driver, he is also a wonderful role model and ambassador,” Chris said. ACL says it offers one of the largest ranges of Performance Engine Bearings on the market and the release of the RSAG20 catalogue further showcases this commitment with the
addition of 37 new sets, covering 20 new engine applications and 13 existing engine applications. In addition to exhibiting at SEMA, ACL says it will continue the Northern Hemisphere trade show circuit, exhibiting at Professional Motorsport World Expo in Cologne, Germany and the Performance Racing Industry show (PRI) in Indianapolis, USA. For more information on ACL RACE Series Performance Engine Bearings, contact ACL via www.aclperformance.com.au
PRODUCTS
NEW PRO-KIT 2019 NEW WIRELESS COMMUNICATION CATALOGUE From Bainbridge Technologies Bainbridge Technologies have launched an all new radio frequency transmitter and receiver pair that reportedly minimises installation times by eliminating harnessing issues through firewalls and other hard to reach installation points. The Baintech Wireless Connect uses a compact sender and receiver box to communicate wirelessly through radio frequency. Each RF pair has its own unique ID so there is no risk of interference. Compromising a vehicle’s firewall with harnessing can lead to complications such as water, dust, and noise ingress. To avoid this, Bainbridge Technologies says it has partnered with an Australian owned manufacturing company to bring this exciting product into the auto electrical market.
Delivered as a complete solution, the Baintech Wireless Connect includes: • Four-way switch panel • Six-way fuse block • Radio frequency transmitter and receiver pair Engineered to be discreet and waterproof while providing wireless connectivity to switch accessories with a working range of up to 20 meters, the Baintech Wireless Connect is designed for a wide range of automotive applications, including 4WDs, emergency vehicles, and boats. Designed with safety in mind, the Baintech Wireless Connect can be connected to a canopy buzzer (audible safety alarm). By installing a canopy buzzer, the transmitter communicates wirelessly to the receiver when the key is turned in the ignition – activating an audible alarm to notify the driver that the door or canopy isn’t closed. For more information, call 1300 224 683, email sales@baintech.com.au or visit www.baintech.com.au/ wirelessconnect 56
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The new catalogue is reportedly “packed” with heaps of new and innovative products
Pro-Kit says it is excited to announce that its 2019 Product Catalogue has arrived and is available now for all of its customers. This catalogue has been nearly 12 months in the making and contains a “huge number of new and innovative products, as well as the trusted and great selling ranges currently stocked by Auto Stores all over Australia.” Pro-Kit explains the format of this catalogue has even more improvements over the previous print with: • updated colour-coded easy find and choose product categories; • clearly defined product groups to easily find related products; • highly detailed information of individual products; • comprehensive name index that itemises products in nearly every name which customers may call them ensuring that no sales are missed; • high quality product images; • and much more.
The Pro-Kit team says it is dedicated to ensuring the right products are available to stores to maximise opportunities for higher sales and customer satisfaction. It says this is achieved by providing excellent customer service, the right product ranges, sales support including the very successful Powerwall Program, new design value added packaging designs and Store Special Catalogue promotions to customers. Pro-Kit’s ranges include: • General, specialised and testing tools to suit both the professional and DIY mechanic • Automotive accessories • Car covers in three different materials and four styles • Automotive lighting • Tyre repair and maintenance • Towing and tie-down • Exclusive air freshener ranges For more information, call 02 9820 1773 or email sales@prokit.com.au
NEW 303 SPRAY WAX The next generation of automotive wax from Trico Products Australia Trico Products Australia recently launched its 303 Automotive Spray Wax. The new product is designed to offer a fast solution for making your car shine. Trico says 303 Spray Wax provides a gentle clean that helps remove water spots, dust, and other debris from the hard surfaces on your car, while leaving a protective layer that lasts up to 90 days to help repel these elements. Blended from synthetic and carnauba waxes, Trico says 303 Spray Wax offers both superior UV protection as well as a deep long lasting shine. Application is reportedly a breeze and best of all the product can be applied to either a Wet or Dry surface. Simply spray the product onto the surface to be treated one section at a time. Then evenly spread the product over the area to be treated using a dry, clean microfiber towel. Wipe off with a separate dry, clean microfiber towel.
303 Spray Wax is safe and effective on fiberglass, clear coat, painted metals and plastics, stainless steel, aluminium, and other non-porous surfaces. 303 Automotive Spray Wax (Part# 30217) is distributed exclusively by Trico Products Australia, which says the new product is the fastest solution for making your car shine. It is available in a 473ml Trigger Spray pack with a suggested retail price of $24.99. For more information on 303 Spray Wax or the 303 range of Cleaning and Protection products, contact Trico Australia 03 9271 3288 or visit www.303products.com.au
PRODUCTS
CRC EXPANDS ZINC RANGE THREE-FOLD CRC’s offering of high-quality Zinc aerosol products has been drastically expanded Ten new products are now available alongside CRC’s original Zinc It, Bright Zinc and ‘Black’ coloured zinc products for Australian customers with CRC Clear Zinc, CRC Prime It, CRC Prep It, CRC Etch It and six new CRC Coloured Zincs now available direct from CRC Industries Australia and via stockists nationwide. “Metallic zinc coating is universally accepted as the best method of rust prevention and we are proud to now offer a dramatically greater range of zinc products to our customers than ever before,” CRC Industries Australia Managing Director, Murray Walbran, explained. “CRC Zinc products can be used on structural steel, trailers, roofs, guard rails, welding seams, rivet holes, fencing, storage tank transformers, power generation equipment and much more and can also be used to touch up galvanized coatings.” The new products for the range include the following. • CRC Clear Zinc – CRC Clear Zinc’s advanced protective coating technology protects
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surfaces from chemical, environmental and ultraviolet damage preventing rust, oxidation, corrosion, staining, and fading for up to 27 months. • CRC Prime It – this Red Oxide Primer is a single pack penetrating shop primer with high levels of anti-corrosive zinc complexes. It is formulated for the protection of structural steel and iron and can be applied over clean or lightly rusted surfaces. • CRC Prep It – CRC Prep It is a single pack, high build, easy-sanding metal primer with a grey finish. Formulated with anti-corrosive zinc complexes, it outlasts most high build primers by inhibiting corrosion and forms a quick-drying protective coating with excellent adhesion to bare metal. • CRC Etch It – CRC Etch It is a single pack etch primer for white and yellow metals with excellent adhesion to bare metal. It is formulated for etching and key-coating bare aluminium, stainless steel, brass, copper and galvanised metal surfaces and forms a
tenacious key coat to provide adhesion for painting aluminium, stainless steel, brass, copper and galvanised iron. • CRC Coloured Zincs – the quick drying coating provided by CRC Coloured Zincs combines the superior rust inhibiting properties of zinc with a tough but flexible enamel coating and a coloured satin finish in recognised safety colours. Featuring high levels of anti-corrosive zinc complexes, the CRC Coloured Zincs resist undercutting and blistering from corrosion unlike standard paint systems, instead forming an effective corrosion barrier. Also still available are the popular CRC Zinc It and CRC Bright Zinc products. For more information, visit www.crcindustries.com.au
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STOPPING CRANKSHAFTS FROM HITTING THE HIGH NOTE Aside from transferring power, crankshaft pulleys are constantly under pressure to reduce vibrations from the crankshaft, as a result of the combustion cycle BGA explains that Torsional Vibration Damper (TVD) pulleys, also known as Decoupled Damper pulleys, are designed to absorb the torsional twisting occurring on the crank through the combustion phases. Secondly, they are designed to adsorb the harmonic vibration caused when the crank hits the right ‘note’. Much like a tuning fork, every solid item has a certain frequency that it vibrates strongly at, which is known as the resonant frequency. If the crank achieves its resonant frequency during the rev range, it will vibrate much stronger than before, potentially causing catastrophic damage. This harmonic vibration needs to be tuned out so it occurs at a frequency that the crank can’t achieve through its normal rev range. In some engine designs, the crankshaft pulley is only required to retune just the resonant frequency. These pulleys are known as simple harmonic dampers.
It’s clear to see that crankshaft pulleys play a critical role in engine function, says BGA, which states that reasons for failure can include age, deformation of the damper rubber, contamination, incorrect installation, the use of a solid flywheel where a Dual Mass Flywheel was originally specified, or the use of poor quality replacement parts not made to OE standards as a minimum and/or poor quality control post-production. BGA says only high quality TVDs such as those which it supplies should be used. It says it provides the most relevant and up-to-date range of Crankshaft Pulleys in the aftermarket and with more than 400 different references available, states that its Crankshaft Pulley range covers in excess of 5,000 applications and is nearly twice the size of the nearest competitor while being the biggest in the Aftermarket. Further, it says all of its range are engineered in the UK and manufactured to match and surpass OE standards.
kits to give the installer everything they need to complete the job. Most TVDs use TTY Bolts (Torque to Yield) which can’t be reused, so BGA’s kits are helping to save time and money, it says while stating over 65 percent of all Crankshaft pulleys sold by BGA are now in kit form. BGA says that by utilising its OE manufacturing heritage, it is able to ensure perfect rubber to metal bonding and correct shore hardness of the rubber components used in the dampers. For more from BGA, visit www.bgautomotive.co.uk
Furthermore, BGA says it supplies market leading
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GETTING THE JUMP ON THE COMPETITION Supercheap Auto (SCA) says its new range of 12V Compact Jump Starters is safe, reliable and better value than ever Supercheap Auto says the SCA 12V Compact Jump Starter was developed with value in mind after SCA asked its customers what they needed and how they would use the product. The product includes an LED emergency light; 5V/2.4A USB Output; charge status; low battery warning; three stage charger; and specially designed fast output AGM battery.
SCA says its compact jump starter range is one of the safest on the market, with user safety a central aspect of the design. Safety features include an inbuilt short circuit; reverse polarity; over temperature cut-off; overload protection and 24v Connection cut-off. This is an extremely important feature, as this is the most common reason for catastrophic failure, says SCA. SCA says this product removes many of the dangerous aspects that come with using a traditional jump starter as customers can simply connect it to the battery terminals, switch the unit on, and turn the key to start the car. If the unit has been connected incorrectly, an alarm will sound to alert the user to check the connections. Using the latest battery technology, SCA says it has also reduced the unit’s size and simplified useability. To further improve the customer experience, simple iconography is used on the packaging along with “plain English messaging”, removing the need to decode technical specifications such as the amperage of different models. For more information, visit www.supercheapauto.com.au
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5IQ AUTO REPAIR SOFTWARE For related Automotive Industries When people consider software solutions for their business, their instinct is to search for their industry and in many cases the results displayed show software solutions that are skilfully engineered, designed and tailored to that specific industry. “With 5iQ auto repair software we have done the same for the automotive industry but in addition, we have included related industries into our portfolio,” 5iQ Workshop Software Chief Executive Officer, Mark Alfred, said. “We began with a pure focus on the automotive industry, in particular auto repair, and quickly learned of the lack of up to date, cloud technology that was missing from the tyre, motorcycle, caravan, marine, and trucking sectors, so after a number of conversations with people from these sectors we discovered a huge amount of similarities within these related industries. “We were asked to consider the differences and make it happen. The number of gaps we found was incredible but most not big by comparison so we saw this as an opportunity to solve some real problems and altered our workflow architecture to meet those operational needs.” As a result, 5iQ says it has solved problems with the following new features:
• Customer communication – the 5iQ integrated customer app improves the booking process and can become your 24/7 concierge service while being free for every customer. • Mobility (mobile mechanics) – the 5iQ fully integrated technician app allows them to complete their jobs and manage their business on the go without coming back to a stack of paperwork. • Customer retention – the 5iQ marketing platform with AI alerts you about underutilised days in advance so you can take action or create your own campaign, such as special offers for that long weekend, which you can also share on social media from the platform. For more information, visit www.fiiviq.com
THE HSP LOAD SLIDE HSP says its Load Slide is so good, your Chiropractor will recommend it Sick of hurting your knees from climbing in and out of your tub? Do you have shoulder and back pains from awkwardly having to put your load in and out of your tub? HSP says its Load Slide is designed to combat just that and a lot more. The HSP Load Slide is a purpose-built retractable bed slide. Each unit has an entirely custom cut platform, contouring to your specific vehicle and is designed to give better access and management of your cargo. The Load Slide has a 75 percent multi latch platform extension with 250kg extended load capability – that means that when extended to 75 percent outside of the vehicle’s tub, the Load Slide can handle up to 250kg of dispersed weight. There is also a latching position every 20cms for ease of use. The HSP Load Slide is also custom cut with purpose-built side rails. HSP says one size fits
all is for baseball caps and shortcut products – your vehicle is individual and so is its platform, it says. HSP explains that using advanced CNC routing machines, the HSP Load Slide is completely custom cut to suit your specific vehicle so there is no space wasted. The sides rails are also purpose-built to block loads from falling to the sides as well as being great strapping points HSP is looking for distributors in Australia. If you would like to be a part of the HSP family, please contact HSP on info@hsputelids.com or call 03 9795 8206.
PRODUCTS
CTEK POWERING AUSSIE ADVENTURES The company has launched its new D250SE and Smartpass 120S in time for Summer Ctek, a leading global brand in the care and maintenance of vehicle batteries, has launched its new D250SE battery charger and Smartpass 120S in Australia. Designed to maximise the performance of leisure batteries, Ctek says these latest product upgrades make 4x4 adventures now even more accessible for Australians heading off-road. The D250SE is an evolution of the popular D250SA model, now with the added capability of charging lithium (12V LiFePO4) batteries, in addition to regular and AGM battery types. The Smartpass 120S, an evolution of the Smartpass 120, is now smart alternator compatible. Designed to maximise the performance of leisure batteries and provide information about the state of battery charge, the new model upgrades are designed to meet the increasingly advanced technology needs of Australia’s 4x4 off-roaders and adventurers, without compromise. Whether out on a weekend drive into the wilderness, camping with the family, or fishing with friends; Ctek says an on-board charging system equipped for meeting larger power requirements, and ensuring a constant power supply, is needed. Further, it says the new D250SE is also the perfect tool for the modern work van, keeping set up fullycharged between jobs.
CTEK D250SE Compatible with smart alternators, the D250SE is said to be an easy to install solution that delivers a powerful 20A of power for charging, conditioning and maintaining any 12V lead acid or Lithium LiFePO4 service battery whilst on the move. Its dual input capability means it can also draw power from solar sources, allowing an easy connection to solar panels, harnessing the sun’s rays for the ultimate off-grid camping set up. Key features include: • Flexible charging: an in-built temperature sensor compensates for hot or cold conditions, so batteries are fully charged in the shortest possible time without the risk of over or under charging. It has three specially developed charging modes: normal (14.4V), AGM (14.7V) and lithium (12V LiFePO4). • Direct connection for solar power: input for connecting solar panels without the need for a regulator. It also features a Maximum Power Point Tracker (MPPT) to get the maximum power from solar panels. • Smart alternator compatibility: smart alternators deliver a variable output and are shut off when they’re not needed. The D250SE will still operate even when there is low alternator output, and maintain a stable output of up to 20A to fully charge the battery in the shortest time.
CTEK SMARTPASS 120S The Smartpass 120S is a fully automatic 120A power management system that distributes power between the starter battery, the service battery and on-board equipment, separating critical equipment from non-critical equipment to ensure the radio, emergency lights and navigation systems always have power. Key features include: • Smart alternator compatibility: continuing to
deliver power to the service battery even when there is low alternator output. • Current source priority: supplies power to critical equipment directly from the alternator when the engine is running. This means critical functions like starters, radios, emergency lights and communication systems always have the power they need, and take priority over non-critical functions. • Start assistance: uses power from the service battery to help get the engine started if the starter battery is flat. “Both of these unique products have been developed to work as standalone units or together as a complete system. Combined together, this powerful, safe and flexible charging solution gives you the ability to manage and control your power more effectively,” Ctek Asia Pacific Director of Sales and Marketing, Robert Briggs, said. “The traditional outdoor adventure has evolved. We no longer need to go without creature comforts when out on road-trips and family camping adventures; technology allows us to keep both vehicle and electricals charged, for the most advanced, versatile, and comfortable set up. Australia is the perfect place for outdoor adventures, so we’re delighted to bring these new, industry-leading products to the country.” The new CTEK D250SE and Smartpass 120S come with two-year warranties and are available to purchase from Repco at $499 AUD and $530 respectively. For more information, visit www.ctek.com/au
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ENI AND SWD TEAM UP Eni Oils and Lubricants Australia recently announcing a partnership with SWD Eni says it was very pleased to officially announce its partnership with the leading Australian sub distributor in August of this year.
engines, Eni says customers will have access to high-technology, eco-friendly products that offer superior durability, fluidity and protection.
Eni explains it has a deep heritage in motorsports and has always been involved in the research and production of high quality and high performance motor oils. It says SWD similarly has a long standing history of quality and customer care in the Australian market.
Available now to customers through SWD are the i-Sint MS 5W-30 and i-Sint MS 5W-40 lubricants. Made from high-quality, low carbonforming base oils that minimise deposits, Eni says these products are low in ash, making them the optimal choice when it comes to prolonging the life of existing complex emission systems, such as DPFs and EGRs, as well as helping to reduce harmful CO2 emissions.
So, says Eni, this partnership is strongly to the benefit of resellers, workshops and mechanics across Australia who see the benefit in having access to high performance oils. The partnership means SWD now has the distribution rights to Eni’s wide range of quality products. This range will reportedly provide a complete and comprehensive solution for customers seeking to ensure the correct lubrication of engines and transmission systems of passenger cars in accordance with the requirements of the OEMs. Whether for old or new, diesel and spark-ignition
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Additionally, because of the multiple OEM approvals for these products, Eni says fewer numbers of lubricants need to be bought and stocked, allowing for more space and cost savings in workshops and garages. Further, Eni says that thanks to the approvals they can also be trusted to perform, giving peace of mind to vehicle owners and mechanics alike. Key specifications and approvals for i-Sint MS 5W-30 and MS 5w-40 include: ACEA C3, API
SN, MB-Approval 229.51 and 229.52, BMW Longlife-04, Porsche A40, VW 502 00 + 505 01 and GM DEXOS 2 quality. Eni i-Sint MS 5W-30 and MS 5W-40 along with the full Eni range are available now from SWD. For more information, call 1300 669 122 or email support@swd.com.au
PRODUCTS
HELLA LIGHTS THE WAY FOR NISSAN N-TREK WARRIOR Nissan Australia has selected the Hella Light Bar 470 for the Navara N-TREK Warrior Hella Australia, a leader in Original Equipment and aftermarket lighting technology, says it is proud to announce the selection of the Hella LED Light Bar 470 as the preferred auxiliary lighting to equip the new Nissan N-TREK Warrior 4x4 ute. Hella says Nissan engineers, led by LCV Product Manager Matt Baily, worked with the product development and engineering team from Premcar in Melbourne and Hella lighting engineers to “turn a good vehicle with a strong heritage into an exceptional vehicle tailored for the 4WD enthusiast in our market.” The Nissan N-TREK Warrior project was kickstarted under the watch of Nissan Australia Managing Director Stephen Lester, together with Director of Engineering for Premcar Bernard Quinn, to produce a sensible but comprehensive approach to fine tuning the Navara ute to be fully equipped for all requirements. The compact Hella LED Light Bar 470 reportedly incorporates the legendary expertise of Hella optics which provide the performance of traditional round or rectangular auxiliary lights within a 528mm length light bar which contains 16 LEDs, weighs
only 950 grams and is rated at 113,000 to 166,000 candela, depending on the optic variant. Developed for the special requirements of offroad vehicles, trucks, pick-ups and cars, due to its slim design it can be mounted in minimal spaces on all vehicles. In position under the front grille air intake of the N-TREK Warrior, the 16 LEDs feature selectable optics and are available in pencil beam and driving beam with light projection of 415 metres and 325 metres with widths of 20 metres and 40 metres respectively (approximately). For fitment to smaller areas, the shorter Hella LED Light Bar 350 has an overall length of 408mm. Aftermarket buyers may choose from optics configured solely as driving beam, pencil beam, wide beam or narrow beam, dependent on preference and application. “Nissan Australia’s selection of the LED Light Bar 470 is a great testimony to the high performance of Hella lighting,” Hella Australia Managing Director, Darren Robinson, said.
“The premium specification of the Navara N-TREK Warrior provides the discerning buyer with the best equipment available for safe driving.” Hella LED Light Bars can be mounted as a single or dual unit with the appropriate Hella stainless steel bracket and are available for aftermarket purchase from all good automotive accessory outlets. For more information, visit www.hella.com.au
GIVE YOUR TOOLS A HOME AT WORK Introducing Grypmat, the ‘ultimate’ workshop companion A multi-purpose tool, the Grypmat is designed to keep your tools in place, no matter where you want to put them. Made from a specifically formulated polymersilicone blend, its high tech, high temp properties allow it to be used on a variety of work surfaces – even at extreme angles. Resistant to chemicals, versatile and easy to use, those behind the product say it comes with an “insane” grip that can hold tools on several work surfaces. The brainchild of Tom Burden, an Air Force mechanic, this product came to be after he grew tired of having his tools slide off the aircraft during work. It took him three years to develop the Grypmat – a high performance, non-slip, non-magnetic rubber mat that helps to keep tools in place.
The Grypmat is available in three sizes – small, medium and large – and can be purchased individually or in a Tri Pack containing all three sizes. The large Grypmat is designed to protect your expensive scan tool from slipping off a fender or engine. “From a vintage car fender to an aircraft cowling, Grypmat’s flexible material keeps your tools inplace on even the craziest of curves and surfaces,” Grypmat Australia and New Zealand distributor Managing Director, Grant Eveleigh, said. “Gone also are the days of grabbing a tool here and grabbing a tool there. You can stop wasting time in-between your toolbox and your machine and save countless hours in your shop by bringing your tool mat with you to the job site. “Every mechanical engineer has even dropped a tool or nut/bolt in the engine bay of a car and wasted significant time trying to find it/them again, but never again with Grypmat, you can get it done, and get it done right.” Made of industrial strength silicon-polymer, every Grypmat reportedly withstands the harshest of scenarios from seriously corrosive chemicals (Skydrol, MEK, Hydraulic Fluid, etc) to temperatures in excess of 500ºF.
Grypmat has won a number of global awards since being released in 2017 as follows, and has also featured on the American Television Show ‘Shark Tank’ where it won the support and funding of Sir Richard Branson and two other prominent business mentors: • Time Magazine – one of the top ten best innovations of 2018 • SEMA – Launch Pad Best New Product 2018 • SEMA – Gold Media Award 2018 • National Hardware Show – New Product World Winner 2018 • Edison Awards – Gold Winner 2018 • Good Guys – Best Product 2018 The Grypmat is now available in Australia and New Zealand through ‘Repco Auto Parts’ and distributed by ‘DU Distribution’. For more information, call 1800 304811, email sales@dudistribution.com or visit www.grypmat.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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ACS LAUNCHES NEW PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS AT SEMA 2019 Three new kits were launched at the show Australian Clutch Services has recently launched several new products at SEMA Show 2019 in Las Vegas. The new products come from ACS’ performance and motorsport line of upgrades sold in Australia under the Xtreme Clutch brand and under XClutch in the USA. Three new kits were launched at the show including a sprung version of the ACS 263mm twin plate organic street upgrade for the 2018 Mustang GT; a 230mm Dodge Challenger triple plate organic; and a 184mm sprung ceramic twin plate to suit motorsport applications in the Hyundai i30N. Each of the kits have been designed to offer a significant increase in clamping force for vehicles with performance modifications and the kits come complete with everything required for the installation including alignment tool, bearings and hydraulics where applicable. “SEMA Show 2019 was the ideal place to launch our latest range of performance upgrades,” Australia Clutch Services Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said. “These upgrades have been designed to suit
vehicles from the US and Australia and our development team have been working hard to engineer and test these products before the official launch at SEMA.” Australian Clutch Services says it has seen continued growth in its export program, with the XClutch brand quickly developing throughout America. “The XClutch brand is still relatively new in the US but is quickly making a name for offering high quality solutions across an extensive range of vehicles,” Brenton said. “Having such a comprehensive vehicle coverage allows us to branch into many areas of the market that require a performance street or motorsport clutch solution and that are not currently being catered for. “Our warehouse in the US also allows us to quickly and efficiently provide complete kits to our distributor base throughout the US and Canada.” ACS says XClutch and Xtreme Clutch performance upgrades are currently used by some of the top motorsport teams and car builders in Australia, Europe and the US. XClutch was also recently
chosen for the incredible build of an AWD, quad rotor Mazda RX-7 being developed by YouTube star, Rob Dahm. “We enjoy working with tuners and builders on custom clutch upgrades and the quad plate 184mm clutch that we developed for Rob Dahm was no exception,” Brenton said. “Rob Dahm also displayed the clutch with the vehicle at SEMA and it was great to see so many people taking inspiration from this amazing vehicle.” For more information on the Australian Clutch Services product range, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au or email sales@australianclutch.com.au
TAKING HOME THE GOLD With Fastron Platinum PT Pertamina Lubricants says that aside from taking the lubricants market by storm, it also has been taking part in the 2019 Toyota 86 racing series through a partnership with one of the best scoring racers in the series, Luke King. In this year alone, Luke obtained three podiums while representing Pertamina’s premium range of Automotive Lubricants, specifically Fastron Platinum SAE 0W-40 which is especially designed for premium cars and the latest car generation that operate under extreme conditions. “As a team and as a driver, we are honoured to be representing such a high-quality product and introducing the brand to the Australian market,” Luke said of his partnership with Pertamina Lubricants. With Nano Guard Technology, the Fastron Platinum SAE 0W-40 engine oil is formulated from fully synthetic base and PT Pertamina Lubricants says it has some impressive specifications as follows: • API SN/CF, ACEAA3/B4-12 • VW 502 00/505 00 • MB sheet 229.3and 229.5 70
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• BMW Long Life 01 • Porsche A40 • Ford WSS-M2C937-A • Renault RN0700 • RN0710 Recommended by Toyota 86 Racing Series podium racer Luke King, Fastron Platinum SAE 0W-40 is reportedly formulated with advanced technology, offering very stable multigrade viscosity. PT Pertamina Lubricants says the product has the ability to enhance the work of an engine to optimum levels in all conditions including start-up and promotion of operation at high temperatures, thus ensuring excellent oxidation and thermal stability.
Pertamina Racing as I continue to climb the ranks,” Luke said.
Additionally, the product is said to be able to aid low oil consumption and minimise piston deposit formation to keep engine reliability and maximise protection from excessive wear.
In the international lubricant market, PT Pertamina Lubricants says Fastron can be assumed to be synonymous with high performance lubricants heavily linked to technical partners of Automobili Lamborghini and accredited by world-renowned car manufacturers, such as Mercedes Benz, BMW, VW, and Porsche.
“The oil we have tested specifically for our Toyota 86 Racing Series Vehicle has performed extremely well and I look forward to building Fastron/
For more information, contact your local representative on 0466 355 850 or 1300 28 28 14 or via email at sales@basauto.com.au
PRODUCTS
TUNING WITH SMART PHONES Tested in tough Australian outback conditions Bluetooth Diesel Tuning Boxes allow the vehicle owner to choose from seven settings which will give more power or economy to popular Turbo Diesel 2WD and 4WD vehicles. Bluetooth Diesel Tuning Australia, a division of 4WD World, explains that popular fitments include the ute range from Toyota, Mazda, Nissan, Ford, Mitsubishi, VW, Holden and other models.
SHOCK ABSORBERS REPLACEMENT TIPS Thanks to ZF and Sachs MAX Earlier this year, ZF Services Australia introduced a new range of Sachs replacement shock absorbers specifically aimed at four-wheel drives, off-road and utility vehicles. Called Sachs MAX, this new range of big-bore heavy-duty shock absorbers is designed for both standard and raised suspensions, providing superior handling with maximum safety in extreme conditions and under heavy loads. The Sachs MAX range is extensive with over 60 fitments, covering most of the popular four-wheeldrives in Australia, and will continue to grow and expand. The ZF team has provided some useful tips for workshops around replacing shock absorbers, as follows:
Step one: vent the shock absorbers before installing them
The BDT modules are said to be easy to fit being a plug-in unit that has Bluetooth connectivity when paired to an iPhone or similar using an app. With seven settings reportedly giving up to 40 percent more power and improved torque on some models of 4WD vehicles, the boxes are ideal for towing caravans, horse floats, car trailers or trailers. Even when on lower settings, the economy is reportedly improved by a significant amount and power is still better than standard tests, it says. Bluetooth Diesel Tuning Australia says customer referrals attest to the BDT units’ quality and benefits and they have been tested by acclaimed 4WD road tester and editor, Ron Moon, as well as 4WD World owner, Ed Mulligan. The units can be kept when selling a vehicle and reprogrammed to suit the new purchase in many cases; have a three-year warranty and are priced from $895 retail including delivery. Trade enquiries can be referred to the sales team on 1300 015 584, or to the website at www.bluetoothdieseltuning.com.au
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During transport and storage, shock absorbers tend to be stored horizontally, which can cause the gas and hydraulic fluid to mix together. If workshops replace shocks without venting the new ones beforehand, the optimum damping effect will only be achieved once the vehicle has moved up and down several times. This may lead to an increased build-up of noise (hissing). To prevent this occurring, the piston rod must be manually pushed and pulled several times in the operating direction. This separates the gas and hydraulic fluid, and ‘vents’ the shock absorber.
Step two: replacing worn shock absorbers Note: Due to the many different types of shock absorbers, only a few basic replacement instructions have been provided. Make sure to use a suitable tool, such as a transmission jack to support the wheel suspension before removing the shock absorbers. When replacing shock absorbers or struts, it might be required, where appropriate, that the cables
are detached from the ABS sensors and electrical lining wear indicator, and the brake hose is detached from the corresponding brackets. Loosen and remove all mounting bolts and remove the shock absorber and/or spring strut. If you also remove a spring strut, make sure to observe the manufacturer’s installation instructions and safety regulations. For assembly and installation, replace all of the mounting bolts and install the supplied accessory, while observing the torque specified by the vehicle manufacturer. Secure any cables that may have been detached from the ABS sensors and electrical lining wear indicator before replacing the shock absorber, as well as the brake hose, back into the corresponding brackets.
TIPS: • When working on the rear axle, make sure to remove any trims from the vehicle interior in order to reach the damper’s upper mounting bolts. • There is the risk of serious injury caused by the sudden release of springs. Always use a suitable spring compressor. • To ensure safe vehicle handling, always replace both shock absorbers on an axle • After changing the shock absorbers, carry out an axle alignment • Then carry out a test drive in order to check that they are working correctly. For more information, visit www.sachsmaxshocks.com.au
PRODUCTS
INTRODUCING THE 11 SERIES New lamps launched by LED Autolamps LED Autolamps says it is excited to release its new road legal, ultra-compact, super low-profile, rear function, and forward-facing lamps. The lamps are said to look great with a slick, clean, modern design. While inactive, they sport a clear lens and a black PCB, but when activated and lit up, LED Autolamps says you are sure to let other motorists know your intentions. Measuring just 89mm wide, 30mm high, and 8mm on its side profile makes them perfect for small, tight spaces. The low-profile design also provides the benefit of helping avoid unwanted impact damage, which can lead to costly downtime to replace. The 11 Series has also been vibration tested and comes with built-in solid-state circuit technology, meaning no moving parts. The lamps are also comprehensively tested to extreme IP67 standards for dust and water ingress. Utilising the strength and durability of highimpact polycarbonate plastics for the lens, and the efficient heat dissipation of an alloy base, LED Autolamps says the lamps have been
manufactured to the highest standard possible for the most extended operational life possible. The 11 series come standard with rear-facing options of Stop/Tail, Indicator or reverse lamp function, as well as forward-facing with front indicator and front position options. They also offer dual voltage, 12/24 Volts, as well as a low current draw, which is very important when considering battery system requirements. Directed through an enhanced Fresnel style lens are three high powered SMD LEDs, ensuring the most exceptional light efficiency possible, which not only shines brightly in all functions but exceeds the stringent ECE standards for road approval. LED Autolamps says it has made standard the use of super-strong 3M tape with screws for fixing to any clean flat surface. “We are driven to push the boundaries of design and manufacturing, endeavouring to release at least two new products per month,” LED Autolamps’ Michael Ottobre said. “The 11 series are a testament to that
commitment. Compact with a low profile of only 8mm and a combined overall size for rear functions of 89mm x 90mm and only 89mm x 60mm for combined forward-facing makes this range one of the smallest road approved lamps in the market.” LED offers peace of mind five-year warranty. The 11 series are all supplied in a twin retail blister pack. For further information, visit www.ledautolamps.com for your local distributor or call 03 9466 7075.
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INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS
2019 AUSTRALIAN AUTO AFTERMARKET INNOVATION AWARDS AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – 4WD The competition for the AAAA Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product – 4WD award was exceptionally close with 20 entries in total from 17 AAAA members. In this issue, we take a look at the entrants who vied for this award including the winning Redarc Electronics 50 Amp DC-DC In-Vehicle Battery Charger For more information about the Australian Auto Aftermarket Awards, please visit www.aftermarketawards.com.au
Redarc Electronics: 50 Amp DC-DC In-Vehicle Battery Charger – WINNER The Redarc 12V 50A In-vehicle DC to DC battery charger is the latest variant of the award-winning BCDC Dual range and features Redarc’s Smart Start technology. A 50-amp charging output makes it the most powerful in Redarc’s BCDC range and has been developed to provide a higher current output. It features an additional charging stage known as SoftStart which has been engineered to handle more demanding applications and is suitable for 12 or 24-volt vehicle systems. For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au
Ashdown-Ingram: Great Whites Attack Featuring five new light bars and two new round driving lights, the Great Whites Attack range from Ashdown-Ingram is equipped with new LED technology, allowing them to deliver greater performance with fewer LEDs. Designed in Australia, Great Whites have been carefully constructed from the highest quality components, featuring Cree LEDs which produce higher lumens per watt to increase light intensity. Housed in a marine grade aluminium body with a polycarbonate lens, the lights are designed to survive the harshest conditions. For more information, visit www.ashdown-ingram.com.au
A x 4 Engineered: X Grille Together, AX4 Engineered and Lightforce developed the X Grille, a bull bar or nudge bar alternative for four wheel drivers. The patented X Grille is an integrated replacement of the radiator grille for the bestselling Ford Ranger PX MkII. AX4 Engineered manufactures the glass-filled nylon composite grille, whilst Lightforce provides a special lightweight, adjustable version of their market leading Venom LED driving lights to deliver this unified, innovative aftermarket product. For more information, visit www.ax4engineered.com
CarLab Immobiliser Solutions: Bolt Lock Hitch Pin Receiver Lock Featuring the patented Bolt Lock one-key lock technology, the weatherproof and durable Hitch Pin Lock is designed to be permanently programmed to lock and unlock using the vehicle’s ignition key. The Self Keying Master Key Technology was developed to provide a convenient way to secure the tow hitch or tow ball. The Hitch Pin Lock includes an automotive-grade, stainless steel lock shutter to keep out weather and debris, as well as a six-plate tumbler sidebar. For more information, visit www.lsc.com.au
Diesel Distributors: Direction-Plus ProVent oil separator kits The Direction-Plus ProVent system is specifically designed to separate and redirect oil and air from blow-by gas produced from within the crankcase. This kit will protect your diesel engine by substantially reducing the amount of oil entering the engine from blow-by gas in the crankcase ventilation system which also provides the option of returning the oil back to the sump. For more information, visit www.dieseldistributors.com.au 74
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INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS Diesel Distributors: Direction-Plus PreLine-Plus diesel pre-filter and water separator kits The Direction-Plus PreLine-Plus is an innovative pre-filter that reliably protects your diesel fuel system from corrosion and abrasion. The kit includes an intuitive multi-stage water alert and reportedly has a 100 percent of water separation efficiency and a long service life, meeting the specifications set by leading manufactures of diesel fuel injection systems. For more information, visit www.dieseldistributors.com.au
Don Kyatt Group: Terrain Tamer Parabolic Springs Terrain Tamer’s Parabolic Leaf Springs utilise three leaves, thicker in the centre and tapered toward the ends, eliminating the weight of traditional packs, and reducing the unsprung vehicle weight. This design improves flexibility, transferring less road shock to the vehicle in rough terrain and reducing driver fatigue. The springs provide a smoother, quieter ride, with better axle articulation and can bear heavy loads, with almost no interleaf friction until there is a reasonable load on the vehicle, up to 500kg. For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com.au
Exedy Australia: Coolmaster Off Road Transmission Cooler for 4WD Exedy’s Coolmaster Offroad transmission cooler was developed after Exedy’s team analysed the Australian car parc and found a gap in the market for a heavy-duty transmission cooler for 4WD which would exceed the performance of OEM built-in cooling systems. It is designed to work in unison with, or replace, the original components depending on the make and model of the vehicle and provides a cost-effective solution to reduce transmission operating temperatures, increase the longevity of the transmission and reduce transmission repair costs. For more information, visit www.exedy.com.au
Garrett: Garrett PowerMax Turbocharger The Garrett PowerMax direct fit turbocharger is designed for the 3.2L Duratorq five cylinder diesel engine platform found in the 2011-2015 Ford Ranger PX and the 2011- Mazda BT-50. The forged, fully machined compressor wheel designed for the GTX gen II product line reportedly increases flow by 20 percent over the OE wheel. With the correct engine calibration, this enables the engine to be tuned up to 172kW from OE standard 147kW. For more information, visit www.garrettmotion.com
HELLA Australia: HELLA RokLUME 380 N LED Driving Light HELLA Australia’s RokLUME 380 N LED Driving Light provides 7500 Lumen, more than double the light of a comparable xenon driving lamp. The 12 high-power LEDs create a superior illumination at a colour temperature of 5000 Kelvin. The warmer colour temperature reduces glare from highly reflective road signs compared to 6500 Kelvin, used by many LED driving lights. The hard-coated polycarbonate lens provides superior impact resistance without any chance of UV degradation. For more information, visit www.hella.com.au
HELLA Australia: HELLA UltraBeam Gen II LED Driving Light The HELLA UltraBeam Gen II LED Pencil Beam driving light features eight high power LEDs (6500K) and a powerful light output of 4000 Lumen. Despite being smaller than most driving lights, HELLA Australia’s UltraBeam Gen II LED impresses with consistent light distribution, outperforming larger driving lamps with reach of 450m at one lux. The thermal design of the aluminium die-cast housing enables a very compact driving light that suits the front of modern vehicles without compromising light output performance. For more information, visit www.hella.com.au
HSP 4x4 Accessories: HSP Roll R Cover HSP says it is proud that its Roll R Cover “has changed the market of ute covers.” The Roll R Cover offers a secure, versatile and practical cover. Not only is the unit electric, but the HSP Roll R cover can work with sportsbars, cross bars, sail-planes and even ladder rack systems. And it delivers all of this with very compact canisters and “second to none” water protection. The HSP Roll R Cover is truly unique and is the only cover to incorporate all these features, says HSP. For more information, visit www.hsputelids.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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INNOVATIVE PRODUCTS Kingsley Enterprises T/A Bushranger 4x4 Gear: Bushranger Night Hawk The Bushranger Night Hawk VLI Series LED Driving Lights reportedly offers outstanding performance (1.3km at one Lux and 21,600 lumens) per pair. Brightness control functionality for quick adjustment of light intensity and inter-changeable spot/flood beam covers to suit the environment give the user control like never before and improves the visibility and safety of night driving. The unique shape and low-profile design allow for diverse fitments. Designed, engineered and tested locally. For more information, visit www.bushranger.com.au
MercuryPM: Saber Offroad Ultimate Recovery Kit The Saber Offroad Ultimate Kinetic Recovery Kit includes not only an industry leading Kinetic Recovery Rope rated at 8000kgs, but also two, 14000kg Fully Bound Soft Shackles. MercuryPM says this is the safest recovery kit on the market today and explains that the key feature which makes this kinetic recovery rope so effective is its ability to stretch. When put under load, it will stretch up to 30 percent, greatly relieving the sudden shock and jerking commonly felt during vehicle recovery. For more information, visit www.saberoffroad.com.au
Motospecs: Drivetech 4x4 Dual Speed Winch Using advanced dual speed technology for maximum strength and fast line retrieval, the Drivetech 4x4 Dual Speed Winch is available in 9,500lb and 12,000lb models. Designed for use in the Australian environment, it is fully sealed and comes with an IP67 waterproof rating. Running below 95dB, both winches deliver quiet operation. Other features include 26m synthetic rope and a sealed solenoid unit with a three position mounting bracket. For more information, visit www.drivetech4x4.com.au
Motospecs: Drivetech 4x4 Bumper by Rival Motospecs’ range of Drivetech 4x4 Bumpers by Rival are made from 6mm alloy and provide an excellent amount of strength and protection without the disadvantages of a heavy steel bar. Designed for ease of installation, these Bumpers include integrated recovery points, LED fog lights, built-in tow hooks, high lift jack slots, winch mount and easy winch access. The bumpers come in a matte wrinkle style black finish and have been independently tested to ensure ADR69 compliance and airbag compatibility. For more information, visit www.drivetech4x4.com.au
Pedders Suspension and Brakes: Pedders TrakRyder eXtreme Brake Kits Launched into the Australian and International markets in 2018, Pedders’ TrakRyder eXtreme brake kits are designed to suit the Ford Ranger PXII, Isuzu D-Max RT50 and RT85, and Holden Colorado RG. There is also a Rear Drum To Disc Brake Conversion Kit for the Nissan Navara D23 (coil spring models). Pedders says that the bigger braking surface means bigger stopping power and independent Australian Engineering tests reflected an average improvement in braking distance by up to 14 percent. For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au
Ryco Group: Ryco Crankcase Ventilation System A common problem with diesel powered vehicles is the PCV valve – crankcase gasses that exit this valve into the engine’s intake system often contain several contaminants which can cause issues over time. Ryco Group developed the Ryco Crankcase Ventilation System which it says is the most efficient crankcase filter currently available with market leading high flow capacity and internal storage. Further, Ryco Filters have reportedly delivered undisputable industry-firsts with the sump capacity, the high gas flow design and safety valve technology. For more information, visit www.rycofilters.com.au
SuperPro: 4WD Sway Bar SuperPro says adding its Sway bar to the rear of a leaf sprung 4WD Utility vehicle, particularly if lifted, could arguably be the best upgrade going around. An increase in vehicle height increases body roll; adding a rear sway bar dramatically reduces body roll as well as improving vehicle balance in terms of understeer and oversteer. SuperPro has produced an Adjustable 4WD Sway Bar range for these popular vehicles, supplied with a unique bracketry system which mounts with rearward facing, high articulation lever arms. For more information, visit www.superpro.com.au 76
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MEMBER FEATURE
SCHAEFFLER AUSTRALIA: INNOVATIVE, VERSATILE AND TAILOR-MADE Providing system and service expertise for the Automotive Aftermarket The Schaeffler Group, a global automotive and industrial supplier, says its commitment to top quality, outstanding technology, and an innovative spirit forms the basis of its continued success. By delivering high-precision components and systems in engine, transmission, and chassis applications, as well as bearing solutions for industrial applications, the Schaeffler Group says it is focused on shaping “Mobility for tomorrow.” The technology company generated sales of approximately 14.2 billion euros (approximately 23 billion AUD) in 2018. With around 90,500 employees, Schaeffler is one of the world’s largest family companies and, with approximately 170 locations in over 50 countries, has a worldwide network of manufacturing locations, research and development facilities, and sales companies. The Schaeffler Group has three business divisions – Automotive OEM, Automotive Aftermarket, and Industrial. The Automotive Aftermarket division is responsible for Schaeffler’s global spare parts business and delivers components and holistic repair solutions for passenger cars, light and heavy commercial vehicles, and tractors. With more than 1,700 employees, Schaeffler’s Automotive Aftermarket generated sales of approximately 1.9 billion euros (approximately 3 billion AUD) in 2018. As a global company, Schaeffler says it has a strong local presence across the Asia Pacific region. Schaeffler Australia operates in two locations, Sydney and Melbourne, and its field team services all Australian states and New Zealand. Earlier this year Schaeffler Australia relocated its Sydney headquarters to a larger premises in Belrose (NSW).
Original spare parts for transmission, engine and chassis Schaeffler explains that its range of automotive aftermarket products are based on a comprehensive system approach and are available for all Asian and European vehicle makes and models. With innovation, technical expertise, and the highest standards in original equipment quality, the company offers spare parts and complete repair solutions for clutches and release systems, transmission, engine and chassis applications under iconic brands LuK, INA and FAG.
Transmission Schaeffler’s LuK portfolio includes components for repair of all types of power transfer systems for continuously variable, double clutch, automatic and manual gearboxes. Its products cover the core areas of clutch systems, vibration damping, clutch release systems and transmissions. Further, Schaeffler says it has extensive OEM experience in these product categories and is a development partner to all major automotive manufacturers. In 1985 Schaeffler introduced its “groundbreaking” invention, the dual mass flywheel (DMF), which reliably dampens torque vibrations in the transmission and ensures high levels of shifting and driving comfort, while also reducing fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Over 115 million LuK DMFs have been produced and today every second new vehicle that is produced is equipped with a DMF. Schaeffler has supplied OEMs with dry double clutches since 2008 and wet double clutches
The LuK Dual Mass Flywheel (DMF) repair solution for all transmission types.
since 2014 this experience is applied to solutions for the aftermarket. With its LuK RepSet 2CT, Schaeffler is the market leader for double clutch repair solutions, covering 85 percent of the vehicle market for dry double clutches worldwide. With the LuK GearBOX repair solution, Schaeffler offers a complete solution that simplifies the repair of manual and double clutch transmissions as well as differentials.
Engine The Schaeffler portfolio under the INA brand helps meet the demands for modern engines to use less fuel, be more powerful and operate smoothly. INA offers intelligent cross-system repair solutions for the four key systems of the engine: for the timing drive (for both belt and chain driven vehicles), the front end auxiliary drive (FEAD), the valve train, and cooling system. The portfolio offers a wide range of individual products and complete system repair kit solutions. Schaeffler is one of the largest OE parts manufacturers for chain-drive systems with over 100 years of experience and works in 18 R&D centers around the world to further develop its products. The INA Timing Chain Kit is vehicle specific and comes with the timing chain, timing chain sprockets, hydraulic and mechanical chain tensioners, tensioning rails and guide rails as well as the gaskets and mounting parts. Schaeffler also offers INA Timing Belt kits. The INA FEAD Kit is designed to reduce vibrations and improve driving comfort. Kits are vehicle specific and come with all components in OE quality, including V-belt, tension and deflection pulleys, all necessary accessory parts and a belt position diagram to assist with easy fitment.
Chassis
The Schaeffler Australia and New Zealand head office in Belrose, NSW.
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With its heritage brand FAG, Schaeffler says it is a proven chassis specialist offering high-quality components for suspension, steering, damping and bearings.
MEMBER FEATURE
INA Timing Chain Kit for passenger cars.
Schaeffler reportedly offers everything for the easy replacement of wheel bearings including high-precision and reliable wheel bearings and complex bearing modules – from the FAG WheelSet, to the FAG WheelPro for replacing the wheel bearings at both ends of a single axle, to wheel-bearing repair solutions for light commercial vehicles and pre-assembled wheel bearing units for heavy commercial vehicles, like the FAG Repair Insert Unit (RIU) and FAG SmartSET. Schaeffler has recently expanded the FAG product range to include steering and suspension parts, drive shafts and strut mountings for chassis repairs.
New components added to the FAG chassis spare parts portfolio include steering and suspension parts, drive shafts and strut mountings.
resulted in numerous complete repair kits. The kits provide OE quality components, designed to work perfectly together for a reliable and complete repair, while saving money and time in ordering parts, installation and vehicle downtime.
Technical support for mechanics The Schaeffler REPXPERT technical portal, www.repxpert.com.au, is available to support mechanics and automotive technicians in their work – with the right data, technical information and resources to help them in providing fast and efficient repairs.
Complete kit repair solutions
Registration for the portal is free, and here mechanics can access Schaeffler product information, use the TecDoc product catalogue to search for repair parts and kits, watch installation videos, find service information, damage diagnostics, technical manuals and earn rewards via the bonus program.
Schaeffler states that its continuous improvement processes to meet the needs of workshops has
Schaeffler Australia offers global technical expertise and experience, comprehensive repair
The range includes control arms, tie rods, stabilisers, supporting and guide joints, and axial joint kits.
solutions and services directly to the Australian and New Zealand automotive aftermarket. With its industry-leading R&D, Schaeffler says it is a development partner of automotive manufacturers for all key future technologies and initiatives, including electronic mobility and autonomous driving. “We’re focused on expanding our product ranges and distribution network to meet the needs of the local market. And with our REPXPERT website and hotline we aim to support local workshops with the technical information they need for their everyday work and more complex repairs,” Warren said. Schaeffler products are distributed throughout Australia and New Zealand through national wholesalers, reseller groups as well as major chain stores. Schaeffler Australia is also a Capricorn Brand Partner. For more information, call Schaeffler Australia on 1300 585 462 or visit www.schaeffler-aftermarket.com.au
At REPXPERT.com.au, mechanics can quickly find all the components they need for repair work. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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STEP ASIDE DERV, HERE COMES PHEV (SORT OF) In this article, Harrison Boudakin reports on the growing prevalence of plug-in hybrid vehicles, a phenomenon brought on by the changing perceptions and acceptance of diesel vehicles in the European marketplace
As Australia’s automotive independence has declined over the last decade, the law of the inverse transformation has inevitably and forever reshaped the car parc we once knew, creating a vibrant and dynamic landscape for the motorist of today. Alongside Asia, and to a lesser extent, the Americas, the patchwork of Australian automotivity includes a very sizeable swatch of European influence – which, given the changing dynamics of that market, promises to expose our motoring horizon to some very interesting and exciting new trends over the next few years. It goes without saying that in the turbulent wake of diesel emissions revelations, strong political disruption and the arrival of upstart new players, Europe’s diesel-oriented automotive scene has been contorted by the conflicting demands of conservative buyers and zealous new regulatory frames. Perhaps more than any other element, the region’s love affair with diesel has been dealt a severe hand, as legislation now forces OEMs to dramatically reduce CO2 emissions on the one hand, while also cutting noxious particulates on the other. In plain engineering terms, the pursuit of these twin goals is akin to pulling one cart in two directions, and the result is diminishing diesel returns at great expense for the manufacturer. One also cannot forget the imperative OEMs now face to make considerable investments in battery and electric vehicle technology, further straining their cash reserves. The challenge therefore presents as follows: while diesel continues to offer a path to CO2 reduction in the short term, the reality is that achieving those reductions is becoming ever more costly and increasing the complexity of the vehicles customers buy. Yet manufacturers are as aware as anyone else that neither the technology, nor the infrastructure required to support full electric vehicles, is yet ready to make them a viable “mass-market” alternative to existing diesel passenger cars in the immediate future. So what are OEMs to do? Well, one option that appears to be gaining some momentum in the European sphere is the plug-in hybrid: a vehicle which, in theory, promises to bridge the divide between Europe’s diesel dependency today, and the full-electric reality of tomorrow...or the day after. 80
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While far from a new idea in automotive circles, the plug-in hybrid (or PHEV) concept has to date remained a peripheral player, with only a handful of instances finding traction in the marketplace. Now though, these “hybrids plus-plus” present as a kind of magical bridge for automakers, preserving the usability of traditional combustion models, while allowing OEMs to reduce CO2 outputs by between 50 and 80 percent, all while moving away from the higher NOx emissions of diesel models. In so many ways, the PHEV is an ideal mechanism for automakers to blast away the regulatory chicanery that now lies ahead of them in the short-term. Adding an electric motor and a battery that can be mains-recharged to a conventional (usually petrol) model, is a fasttrack to meet the 95g/km CO2 fleet average figure mandated by the European Union for 2020,
with many of even the larger, SUV PHEVs able to record CO2 figures below 50g/km. They also qualify for what are termed “super credits” in the EU, meaning sales of PHEVs allow automakers to offset commensurate sales of higher-emitting vehicles in their line ups until 2023. And perhaps most importantly to customers, PHEVs qualify for entry into the Ultra-Low Emissions Zones that are becoming increasingly prevalent across Europe’s city centres – zones from which conventional petrol and diesel vehicles are banned. In an academic sense, then, it’s little wonder that sales of PHEVs in Europe are expected to double next year, reaching nearly 600,000 units, or more than three percent of total EU market share – a figure that will see them eclipse (albeit temporarily) full-electric vehicles. By 2025, it’s predicted PHEVs will have passed 5.2 percent
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share, with more than a million sold per annum in Europe alone. Yet for all the zeal with which automakers are embracing the plug-in hybrid model, there can be no denying that the road to PHEV reliance is littered with enormous risks for automakers. Put simply, while they are undoubtedly an effective “gateway drug” for buyers making the difficult switch away from diesel vehicles to full-electric ownership, their saleability depends heavily on the regulatory system recognising them as ecologically effective. At present, legislators across the EU are in fact acting rather generously in their approach to plug-in hybrid vehicles, with the European emissions tests producing exceptional figures for PHEVs by virtue of a “best-case scenario” drive cycle, which assumes a fully-topped up battery and includes a large portion of conditions that favour electric-only use.
And yet if, as the evidence seems to show, the majority of plug-in hybrid owners don’t always charge the batteries from the mains, and instead treat their vehicles as more conventional “selfcharging” hybrids, the reality is that they’ll miss the quoted figures by more than a moonshot. But it’s highly likely that despite having full knowledge of this phenomenon, the EU’s decision to stick with an ultra-low emissions classification for plug-in hybrids is a calculated move designed to hasten consumer acceptance of vehicle electrification. There’s also the issue of cost: fitting the battery, drivetrain control systems and electric motors to an existing combustion engine architecture adds roughly $9000 per vehicle, a burden OEMs cannot possibly expect consumers to shoulder. Instead, manufacturers are relying on incentives (be they tax breaks, rebates or grants)
to stimulate PHEV demand and shift buyers away from the tempting efficiency and lower entry cost of diesels. In France, for example, a CO2-based taxation curve is ripe for driving buyers away from larger diesel vehicles and towards PHEVs, as is also the case in Germany, where the tax on diesel is now twice that on plug-in hybrids. The commensurate uptick in demand for PHEVs created by these structures will undoubtedly push manufacturers to develop and export more of these models, the results of which we are already starting to feel on the Australian front. Porsche, for instance, has substituted some of its diesel models with plug-in hybrids, with Audi, Volvo and Mercedes having launched their own PHEVs to compete. Indeed, plug-ins are proving particularly successful in the premium market, with 52 percent of European Porsche Panamera sales in the first half of this year made up of PHEV models. Of course, in the longer-term, nature cannot be fooled. If governments cut back on incentives for PHEVs, as happened in Holland recently after data showed that users were not realising the full ecological benefits of their PHEVs by neglecting to mains-charge their vehicles, then the plug-in revolution could be cut swiftly and dramatically short. But as long as the current, quite unreal European emissions regime continues to favour hybridised vehicles, in the near-future, at least, plug-ins will play a significant (if not ever-lasting) role in filling the void created by diesel’s declining stocks, and Australia can certainly expect to feel the effects of this change, particularly in the premium markers – even if it pays to remember that while the plug-in hybrid is a significant halfstep towards the future of automotive propulsion, the real electric show has only just begun. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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BANISH DIESEL OIL PEST Whenever diesel fuels are left to rest for a long time, there is a risk of diesel oil pest Bluechem says its new Diesel Organic Cleaner (DOC) product brings a solution which, in contrast to many other manufacturers, takes an alternative way of fighting diesel oil pest and is completely free of bactericide. Anyone who has ever had an infected diesel tank knows the follow-up problems and costs that come to those affected. Bacteria, yeasts, fungi and algae excrete biomass through their natural metabolism, which can develop into a kind of plug in the diesel fuel for all lines, from the tank to the injection nozzles. This blocks the fuel and thus prevents the necessary combustion in the engine. Conventional additives are usually biocides, which kill the microorganisms. However, since 1 December 2018, it is prohibited by a new EU directive to offer these products for sale. Strict legal measures alone make it possible to sell biocidal products to traders and these include requirements such as keeping a poison book, legal proceedings of the product as biocide, an application and sale declaration and many more, explains Bluechem.
Bluechem says its R & D department has tackled the problem in order to fight bacteria, yeasts and so on without having to resort to biocides that are harmful to the environment. “We took a completely new approach to the topic. We do not work from the outside as usual on the microorganisms, but simply deprive the necessary nutrient medium for the metabolism,” Bluechem Group Head of Research and Development, Jens Möller, said. “This prevents biomass from being produced and the bacteria die out due to the lack of metabolism. “Some of these substances disappear even faster with this methodology than seen before with the traditional way. This has already been confirmed by initial tests by independent laboratories.” “The demand for a biocide-free product against diesel oil pest has been steadily growing since the end of last year,” Bluechem Group DOC Product Manager, Andreas Huck, said. “With our new DOC Diesel Organic Cleaner, we now have a solution that already prevents the
spread of microorganisms in tanks and thus stifles the dreaded diesel oil pest in a nutshell. In addition, the remaining suspended matter is bound to a homogeneous liquid and can thus be burned easily and residue-free.“ In addition to its highly effective cleaning effect, Bluechem says its DOC also contains anticorrosive and lubricating ingredients that protect the entire fuel system and increase the life of all components. For more information, visit www.bluechemgroup.com
MILLIONS FLOW BACK TO VOLKSWAGEN, AUDI AND SKODA CUSTOMERS A settlement has been reached in the Australian diesel emissions class action Australian motorists caught up in the global diesel emissions issue involving around 100,000 Volkswagen, Audi and Skoda EA189 diesel vehicles will be able to access millions in compensation after the global automotive giant agreed to a multi-million dollar settlement of its Australian class action recently with Maurice Blackburn Lawyers. After enduring a full Stage One trial last year and with the Stage Two trial due to begin in September, Maurice Blackburn Lawyers informed the Federal Court in Sydney on the 16th of September that agreement had been reached with VW to resolve the matter before incurring further trial costs. The agreement in principle will see a minimum of $87 million available to affected Australian motorists, with that number able to rise to as much as $127 million depending on the final size of the claimant group. In addition, the defendants will also pay the plaintiffs’ legal costs once they are determined by the Court. The case, which has been on foot since 2015, is one of several international actions seeking to hold the company accountable for the allegations 82
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that its EA189 cars had been fitted with defeat devices designed to pass emissions testing in a laboratory. The settlement agreement must be approved by the Court before any payments can be made to affected drivers. The settlement comes without admission of liability from the defendants and importantly will also resolve the overlapping class action that was being heard at the same time. Principal Lawyer at Maurice Blackburn, Julian Schimmel, said it was a significant victory for motorists who for years had been trying to pin down the carmaker to get some accountability in Australia. “This is an important step in providing a measure of justice and redress to the thousands of Australian motorists who claim they were financially impacted by the diesel emissions issue,” Julian said. Lead plaintiffs Alister Dalton (VW), Steven Roe (Skoda) and Robyn Richardson (Audi) have endorsed the resolution as a prudent step and a hard-fought win for drivers. “It’s pleasing there will finally be some closure
and a resolution for thousands of Australians, and it’s important that it forces some recognition from VW that there was a serious issue they had to face up to and deal with here in Australia regarding their vehicles,” Alister said. “A settlement of this size shows that the company is willing to accept responsibility for what they have put their Australian customers through. It demonstrates that they are serious about making proper amends,” Robyn said. “It has been a long and difficult case but for me and many other affected owners, there is a real sense of relief that VW has recognised that a proper resolution in Australia was required. It’s taken a long time but I think it’s the right conclusion,” Steven said. For more from Maurice Blackburn Lawyers, visit www.mauriceblackburn.com.au
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INJECTRONICS TALKS CUMMINS DIESEL ENGINE FAULTS Injectronics offers a test and repair service of the customer’s original unit Cummins diesel engines cover a wide variety of uses and Injectronics says the N14 was Cummins’ most durable engine. Based on the 855 Cummins specifications, the engine design had been improved upon since the 1970s, when the original Cummins N14 featured a gear driven, mechanical injection pump and camshaft fired unit injectors. The system was known as the “PT” injection system, short for Pressure-Time. Cummins computerised the engine in 1991 with the Celect Electronic Engine Controls and updated the engine to Celect Plus in 1995. The N14 Celect relies on electronically controlled, camshaft driven unit injectors. In the system, the camshaft provides final fuel pressure in each individual fuel injector but the injectors utilise electronic solenoids that are actuated by the ECM. Injectronics explains the result is greater timing, pulse width, and pressure control. For 1997 Cummins introduced the N14 “Celect Plus”, which essentially features a more sophisticated ECM and injection management system. Injectronics says it has seen many of these units fail due to many and various causes, stating that most commonly due to liquid/oil contamination which is usually caused by a leaking valve cover where the Injector wires pass through. In this case, engine oil runs down the wiring loom all the way into the ECM connector and causes an electrical short to various components, which in turn causes various faults to be present. Other causes may be related to capacitor damage due to the age of these ECMs, internal shorts due to brittle wiring looms and large amounts of corrosion. Commonly reported faults include: • • • •
Engine cranks but won’t fire Engine misfiring Dropping cylinders when warm No injection
Due to the age of these units and the fact they are no longer available from OEM, Injectronics offers a test and repair service of the customer’s original unit. It says this includes a comprehensive function test and upgrade of electronic components to ensure the unit functions correctly for many more years to come. Customers are also advised to rectify the original cause of failure where applicable including repairing oil leaks and replacing or repairing wiring looms to ensure no further issues arise. Due to the time sensitive nature of the transport/trucking industry, Injectronics says its test and repair service is popular in that the speedy turn-around time gets the vehicle back on the road in a timely fashion. For more information, visit www.injectronics.com.au and search ECMCIDREP Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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NEW FROM BLUECHEM Bluechem has launched its new Diesel Power Additive 3 in 1 product Bluechem explains that this multi-purpose additive contains a combination of combustion and flow improvers with an antibacterial effect. Bluechem’s new Diesel Power Additive 3 in 1 reportedly provides advanced cleaning properties; reduced fuel consumption; an increase in the cetane number; and lubrication of all moving parts of the Diesel combustion system. At the same time, Bluechem says it significantly reduces excess carbon build-up thanks to its “keep-clean-effect” which means a constant and powerful combustion is thus guaranteed. Bluechem explains that its Diesel Power Additive 3 in 1 is especially recommended for lower quality fuels as it keeps diesel flow-able up to -30°C (depending on diesel quality) and cold start performance is improved significantly all-year-round while operational reliability is ensured during winter. The product’s biocide properties also enable the safe elimination of bacteria, fungi and algae in the fuel tank and prevents regeneration of these organisms, which means any blockage of the fuel filter is prevented. Bluechem’s Diesel Power Additive 3 in 1 is suitable for all diesel fuels and engines, such as common rail or direct injection. Bluechem advises this product is for use by ‘professional’ users only and recommended mixing ratios should always be observed. It should be added to the diesel fuel tank before refuelling and for an anti-gel effect during winter, the product should be added when fuel temperatures are above 0 ° C before refuelling. 375ml of Power Additive 3 in 1 will treat up to 80 litres of diesel with a mix ratio of 1:200. For more information, visit www.bluechemgroup.com 84
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THE $250,000 EXHAUST Roo Systems warns your exhaust system could cost you a lot more than you think Emissions from vehicles have been linked to thousands of deaths per year in Australia and Roo Systems says it has spent years learning how to work with manufacturers’ systems rather than against them.
Removal of emissions systems in late model 4WDs can result in six-figure fines Roo Systems warns that the internet is a dark and scary place – hiding behind every corner is endless trouble, legal ramifications, and advice that’ll see you not only pulled up by the police, but potentially with eye watering fines for your trouble. It’s something that not only costs people real money, but can end up with irreparable damage being done to 4WDs. Roo Systems says that perhaps the biggest issue it has seen popping up more and more recently is the idea that vehicles’ emissions systems are something that are best removed altogether and it’s something the company wants to put a stop to right now.
Why they’re there An unintended side effect of any internal combustion engine is the release of emissions into the atmosphere. An EGR, Exhaust Gas Recirculator, is one of the most common emissions systems on almost any engine, petrol or diesel. They’re designed to lower combustion temperatures below the levels at which NOx can form. They work by introducing a small amount of spent exhaust gas into the engine cylinder, replacing combustible oxygen and lowering temperatures below where NOx can form. The other is the DPF, or Diesel Particulate Filter, and it’s the hot-topic of today. Where older systems like EGRs are designed to stop the production of emissions, a DPF is designed to destroy the emissions after they’re made. More specifically they’re designed to reduce diesel soot. That black smoke is essentially a cancerous ash, that while not overly harmful to the environment is deadly to humans. A DPF is designed to catch the particulates while they’re still in the exhaust before injecting diesel in and burning the particulates down to non-harmful sizes.
Why they’re not a problem Over the last few years Roo Systems says it has done countless testing with and without DPFs fitted to the vehicle and found time after time there’s a negligible performance gain to be had by removing the DPF.
So where does the myth come from? Very rarely a manufacturer will produce a component with issues, says Roo Systems, stating that the most common offender was the N80 HiLux from Toyota which was known to have issues with its DPF system not correctly burning and causing excessive smoke. However, a warranty fix or replacement unit is all it takes to rectify it. In almost every other make of vehicle, the DPF causes no issues. Roo Systems explains that they are effectively in the same category as a muffler, in theory removing them may help, but the reality is the vehicle, and the air you’re breathing, are far better off with them in place and working correctly.
Why removing them IS a problem Pollution equipment, like exhaust systems themselves, are fitted for a reason. EGR coolers and DPFs both work to significantly improve the quality of air we breathe. To persuade people not to tamper with these systems there’s a blanket rule that covers disabling any emissions devices on a vehicle and the fines are eye watering. On the spot, you can be handed a $500 fine for removing your DPF. If you end up in front of a judge that fine can be increased to $22,000. Get caught selling a car with emissions gear moved? That’s a potential $250,000 fine for an individual and up to $1,000,000 for the shop who did the work. Those are eye watering amounts of money, especially when you consider a competent workshop can keep your emissions systems in tip-top shape.
Roo Systems – your 4WD diesel destination Roo Systems says it is your one-stop diesel destination. From barwork to horsepower and everything in between, Roo Systems says it can build your dream 4WD and service it under the one roof. The company says its team goes out of its way to know your 4WD and to understand your exact needs so you can benefit from its in-depth knowledge and experience. For more information, visit www.roosystems.com.au
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YOUR DIESEL NEEDS COVERED Unique Auto Parts stocks a large range of filters and service parts Unique Auto Parts has been in the industry for more than 20 years, first as a three bay mechanical workshop and now as one of the largest importers of new parts for European vehicles in Australia. UAP says its impressive inventory includes parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Seat, Skoda, Volkswagen, Audi, Porsche and Volvo with parts available for both passenger and commercial vehicles. Most commercial vehicles on the road today have diesel engines and due to the high number of kilometers these vehicles are travelling each day, they cycle through service intervals much faster than passenger vehicles. This can make keeping commercial vehicles on the road in peak condition very costly. Unique Auto parts says it is able to provide an affordable solution without compromising on quality with a large range of filters and service parts from well-known brands such as JP Group, Quinton Hazel, Trucktec and many others. Non-service parts such as top quality turbos are also readily available. In addition to replacement parts, Unique Auto Parts also stocks specialty Carlube products that are designed specifically for diesel engines, including: • Carlube Adblue – this diesel exhaust fluid is used with selected catalytic reduction systems to reduce emissions of Nitrogen Oxides. This product is not only more environmentally friendly due to the reduction in NOx pollution, it also lowers particulate emissions and provides better fuel economy.
• Complete fuel system cleaner (for diesel engines) – suitable for all diesel engines, this special formula is an easy one step application designed to restore engine power by reducing deposits, it also contains a cetane improver to promote quieter operations and easier cold starting. • Diesel particulate filter cleaner – specifically developed to clear and regenerate dirty diesel particulate filters to help prevent blockages. Unique Auto Parts says it is so confident with the Carlube products, it uses them in its own fleet of delivery vehicles in order to keep them running smoothly and able to provide its customers with a quick and efficient delivery service. Delivery is available from all five locations around Melbourne, Brisbane’s South East and Perth. If you are outside these delivery areas, do not worry – Unique Auto Parts ships freight Australia wide on a daily basis using the most reliable couriers. For more information, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au
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PROTECTION AGAINST TRANSMISSION OVERHEATING The Direction-Plus Transchill Transmission Oil Cooler kit can reduce the temperature of the ATF by as much as 33°C Diesel Distributors Australia says the DirectionPlus Transchill Transmission Oil Cooler kit has been designed specifically to reduce excessive transmission heat caused by towing, carrying loads and driving in sand, snow, off-road or hot conditions. Due to the extreme heat generated in an automatic transmission in hot or extreme conditions while driving your vehicle, an auxiliary oil cooler is an economical and efficient way to help protect against costly transmission repairs.
Automatic transmission fluid (ATF) cools, lubricates and cleans internal transmission components. When transmission components exceed 93°C (200°F), Diesel Distributors Australia says the performance of ATF is seriously compromised. Subsequently, the seals and internal components of the transmission are significantly reduced. Higher internal temperatures will also increase the wear rate of the friction and clutch plates. Diesel Distributors Australia says the DirectionPlus Transchill Transmission Oil Cooler kit can reduce the temperature of the ATF by as much as 33°C, stating that a reduction of just 11°C can double the life expectancy of the transmission, ATF and all internal components. It says that when it comes to the first line of defence against transmission overheating, investing in a Direction-Plus Transchill Transmission Oil Cooler system will protect your investment 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. For more information, visit www.direction-plus.com 86
Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
THE DPF IS HERE TO STAY The Australian automotive repair industry is certainly continuing to see a rapid rise in diesel vehicle repairs Diesel Help Australia Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Clinton Brett, works with both the light and heavy vehicle industry and says most repairs are due to failures caused by the uninformed new diesel owner, neglected servicing, incorrect diagnosing and inappropriate modifications being carried out on the modern diesel engine. Clinton says Diesel Help Australia regularly sees this first-hand as they provide over the phone diagnostics for the trade working on diesels. In October 2019 alone, the company received 20 jobs logged which contained a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) related fault code or claimed to be a DPF problem. Diesel Help Australia will be delivering its DPF diagnostic training course as part of the AAAA Autocare Convention in Brisbane across the 19th and 20th of June, 2020. “In this training, I’ll inform you of the common failures of DPFs and demonstrate the correct diagnosis and prevention of DPF fault codes and failures,” Clinton said. “Current emissions standards in Australia require that all DPF vehicles must remain with the original exhaust system fitted as until proven otherwise, this item reduces the risk of harmful carcinogens being released into the atmosphere. “All of the reported October DPF faults had been resolved without replacing the DPF. Some included removal for cleaning which results in a legal and honest income to be made.” As well as providing training, Diesel Help Australia is also able to assist its customers in sticky situations. “Recently one of our members reported an OEM dealer was threatening a vehicle owner that their warranty was void as the vehicle had been serviced outside of the dealership,” Clinton explained. “The DPF related codes present were P2463-
00 soot accumulation and P246B-00 incorrect conditions for regen. Without evidence, the dealer suspected the incorrect oil was used. “The two-year old car with 17,000kms was correctly serviced by the workshop and we proceeded to assist our member to rectify the problem by carrying out a number of tests and procedures. “Unfortunately the owner’s driving habits were found to be the cause of the faults and we were able to provide this advice as well. “As a AAAA member, I took the matter up with the AAAA to find out where our customer legally stood and with them being a AAAA member themselves, it proved to be a worthwhile activity. “The AAAA were able to provide them and the vehicle owner with access to legal advice and correct terminology which resulted in the dealer retracting their statement – I certainly think this is a good example of the value of the AAAA membership at $460.00 per annum (inc GST) for businesses. “Just as being a member of the AAAA is beneficial, being a member of Diesel Help Australia has also proven to be a valuable tool for many workshops working on DPF diesels. “For example, we have experienced several oil dilution (diesel in the oil) faults which have been mistakenly put down to having performed too many DPF regenerations when this certainly was not the case – indeed, we are aware of at least six causes of oil dilution, and were able to help our members correctly diagnose and solve the problems thanks to this knowledge.” Diesel Help Australia membership includes discounts on training, diagnostic equipment, access to more than 100 diesel technical bulletins and over the phone assistance. For more information, visit www.dieselhelp.com.au/diesel-help
DIESEL
NEW FROM HPD Intercooler Upgrade Kit for NP300 Navara released Australian diesel performance component specialist, High Performance Diesel (HPD), has just released its newest intercooler upgrade kit to suit the twin-turbo D23 NP300 Nissan Navara (from 2014 to current models). Measuring 600mm x 300mm x 76mm, HPD says the new front-mount intercooler is substantially bigger than the stock unit and will flow significantly more air to the engine. Delivering cooler, denser and more oxygen-rich
air for combustion improves efficiency and power output on its own, and can also support tuning and further modifications for improved performance, towing, caravanning and off-roading. The HPD intercooler will reportedly deliver consistently lower temperatures to the engine intake, even under extreme conditions. In addition to the efficiency and performance advantages, lower intake temperatures lead to lower operating temperatures and can improve engine longevity. The core of the HPD intercooler is pressure tested to 40 PSI and the alloy end tanks are TIG welded, forming a robust unit that is said to be much less likely to develop leaks than the crimped-on plastic tanks of the OEM cooler. The piping is 57mm diameter hard alloy, with high quality silicone joiners and load-rated clamps, and HPD supplies a intercooler charge pipe adaptor with a double seal to eliminate leakage from the factory intercooler charge pipe. HPD explains that the kit has an attractive and
durable media-blasted finish and comes with laser-cut stainless steel and alloy mounting brackets. Like all HPD kits, it also includes all mounting hardware, clamps and fasteners required for a professional installation. A comprehensive set of installation instructions are included and the kit can be fitted in approximately six hours. As with all HPD products, the NP300 intercooler is designed, developed and manufactured in Australia. The NP300 Navara intercooler kit, model IKNP300-F, is available now for $1695. For more information, visit www.hpdiesel.com.au
A CUT ABOVE THE REST Denso says it is the leader in Diesel Common Rail Systems Denso is a supplier of advanced automotive systems and components for major automakers around the world and says it is unsurpassed in the development of diesel common rail technology. In 1995, it launched the world’s first diesel common rail injection system for trucks. The following year, it began supplying diesel common rail injection systems for passenger cars. Since then, Denso says it has been actively involved in developing advanced diesel engine technologies and today states that its diesel fuel injectors lead the industry in fuel pressure, precision and timing. Because of its reputation, Denso says its fuel injection systems are fitted to many of today’s popular vehicles; ranging from passenger and light commercial, 4WD to heavy duty trucks and off-highway applications, including: • Toyota Hilux, Landcruiser, Prado, Fortuner and RAV4 • Nissan: D40 Navara and R51 Pathfinder • Mitsubishi: Triton, Pajero and Challenger • Holden: RG Colorado and Colorado 7 • Isuzu Ute: DMax and MUX • Mazda: Mazda 3, 6 and CX-5
• Subaru: Forester and Outback • Various Hino, Isuzu and Fuso trucks. At some point, due to fuel contamination or blockage, these diesel injectors will need to be replaced. This can be a very expensive exercise and can often result in the need to change the fuel pump, common rail and fuel lines as well. Previously all of these items had to be replaced with new components resulting in expensive repair bills. Now Denso says there is a more viable and affordable repair option and in response to the rapid growth of diesel powered vehicles in our local market, Denso Australia offers customers remanufactured fuel injectors. These injectors are sold exclusively through its extensive dealer network. Denso certified repairers offer the only authorised test solution. They are factory trained and fully equipped with the latest tools to diagnose and repair diesel vehicles; including the full servicing of diesel fuel pumps, explains Denso. As you might imagine, Denso says the repair process for these high-tech injectors has to be stringently controlled. Genuine parts are used to ensure vehicle integrity and longevity, and
certified repairers must carry out and conform to stringent worldwide emission tests. Additionally, Denso says its remanufactured injectors are calibration coded to your vehicle’s engine ECU to ensure optimum engine performance is achieved after the repair event. Before your next diesel service, Denso encourages you to ask: is your fuel injection system repaired with genuine Denso parts? Is your replacement injector calibration coded? Will it be installed by a Denso certified repairer? Denso says there is no room for compromise when it comes to the quality of its products and its experience and knowledge makes these remanufactured injectors “a cut above the rest.” Denso Diesel service dealers can be found all around the country. For an extensive list, please visit www.denso.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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AIR CONDITIONING
AHEAD OF THE GAME The Air Conditioning season is here and GPC Asia Pacific says it has the solution to beat the heat Summer is well and truly on our doorstep and with increased stock your local AshdownIngram, Covs and NAPA Auto Parts and Repco branches say they are ready to service your needs with an expanded range of spare parts and air conditioning servicing equipment. Ashdown-Ingram, Covs, NAPA Auto Parts and Repco say they are continuing to build on their reputation as market leader in automotive air conditioning products, refrigerants and equipment suitable for general and specialist automotive technicians.
AC SOLUTIONS FROM INTEREQUIP Air conditioning services can be a great add on sale or stand-alone profit centre Interequip, which has been involved with AC machines for many years, says getting the right machine can help or hinder the profitability of this service. “It became apparent early on that one of the most susceptible parts of the machine was the actual gauges. They need calibration, are not vibration tolerant and are vulnerable to physical damage,” Interequip Director, Alex Visser, said. “We decided to see if we could find a product that was one step above the competition in relation to this weakness. “It needed to include all the features our customers came to love about our existing range but the machine needed to be fast, faster than our competition.
Repco has also released a 36 page catalogue ahead of the 2019/20 season, which highlights its expanded range of spare parts for European applications and its service equipment offering. This year Red Dot awarded exclusive master distributor status to Ashdown-Ingram, Covs and NAPA Auto Parts, further reinforcing that they’re your first call for the iconic Red Dot units in Australia. Red Dot’s market leading product portfolio of hydraulic compressors, condensers, valves and workshop equipment offer climate control solutions to even the most demanding commercial and agricultural machines. For more information on the latest air conditioning products available for your workshop, GPC Asia Pacific encourages you to contact your local Repco, AshdownIngram, Covs or NAPA Auto Parts branches. 88
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The A1000 is a touch screen LCD display while the A2000 is a monitor style display. QUICK COMPARISON CHART
“We understood that vacuum pump specifications and speed were completely irrelevant to what the AC machine was actually capable of delivering.
Feature
“So we set about looking for a machine which could deliver real world evacuation volume and speed data”.
Flushing ability
NO
YES
Recovery speed
11 g/s
40 g/s
Recycle speed
13 g/s
40 g/s
Charge speed
38 g/s
38 g/s
Graphical gauge display
YES
YES
R134A or Y1234YF
YES
YES
As a result of this, Interequip are now proud to introduce a new line up to its already robust range.
Those behind the brands encourage you to ask about the new Mastercool TOX90058 two stage, 18-volt cordless vacuum pump which is reportedly ideal for the mobile air conditioning technician. Combining light weight with a three stage, 15 micron ultimate vacuum rating, it is said to lead the class in terms of specifications.
test on the car’s system and all charging data is recorded to ensure compliance with Government inspectors.”
The new A1000 and A2000 each feature screen displays with graphical gauges running off of very accurate pressure transducers; are fully automatic machines; and most importantly can be operated manually or in full auto mode. “Many of our customers appreciate this feature as it means they can evacuate a system to replace a component before charging,” Alex said. “Older technology machines are fully automatic only, meaning the operator needs to run over and switch the machine off after the evacuation process has been completed to change system components. “Our two new machines can be set to evacuate then set to full auto mode to complete the system vac down and charge. “Other great features include a heater for the colder States, automatic measurement of oil removed and automatic addition of the same amount of oil added into the new charge. “Both machines feature an automatic service counter. This ensures the easily changeable internal filter won’t get blocked or inadvertently induce particles to a new system. “The AutoCool A1000 and A2000 are both supplied with printers and vehicle database. These new machines also do an automatic leak
A1000
A2000
HLD100 Portable Automatic Halogen (A/C Refrigerant) Leak Detector AC refrigerant licensing requires the licensee to have a AC refrigerant leak detector. Interequip supplies the HDL100 leak detector at under $200 to the trade. Features include: • Microprocessor control, with Advanced Digital Signal Processing • Dual-color LED visual display and audible alarm • Seven levels of adjustable sensitivity • Battery Test function Battery voltage indication – more than 50 hours in normal detecting status. • Cordless and portable, operating on two Alkaline batteries • Probe length: 36mm The product detects Halogenated refrigerants, including Chlorine and Fluotine refrigerants. For more information, please contact Interequip on 18000EQUIP or 02 96717811 or visit www.interequip.com.au
AIR CONDITIONING
ARIAZONE PAOIL COMPRESSOR LUBRICANTS Why should I use PAO-based Oils (PAOIL) in my workshop? Ariazone explains that PAOIL is useable with all automotive compressor types including hybrid vehicle compressors. PAO is compatible with R134a and the new R1234yf refrigerant, meaning you only need the one oil for most auto A/C applications.
about the oil being unusable a couple of hours after opening, which means you will not need to stock multiple types of oil since PAOIL is suitable for use with a wide variety of automotive compressors and refrigerants.
PAOIL has a high viscosity and lubricating properties at high operating temperatures and unlike other lubricants, Ariazone says PAO is non-hygroscopic, which means it does not readily absorb moisture.
Ariazone says that PAOIL saves you money, as the special packaging and equipment needed with other oils to ensure that moisture does not enter the refrigeration circuit along with the oil is not necessary with PAOIL.
PAOIL has a five-year shelf life. PAOIL is also available with an added UV dye to help with leak tracing.
It is available in 1L, 5L, 10L and 20L containers and is universal, so you need to stock only one, rather than carrying many different types of oil. With a five-year shelf life, you can buy in bulk and not worry about the quality degrading.
What are the differences between the normal and the UV versions of PAOIL? Ariazone states that the PAOIL PL series offers the same positive properties as the PAOIL AA1 series, meaning it can be used as a complete oil replacement for A/C systems.
PAOIL = money saving With PAOIL you can buy in bulk and not worry
Ariazone explains it is also safe to use, stating PAO is a non-hazardous, non-toxic product which is safe to have around the workshop. It is also safe on painted surfaces, so there are no worries if it is accidently split on vehicles. PAOIL is now available from CoolDrive, JAS, Ashdown-Ingram and ADRAD.
For more information, visit www.rocoil.com or www.ariazone.com or call 03 9338 7522 for the name of your nearest stockist.
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WORLD-CLASS WIRE & GAS 2020 LINE-UP TAKES SHAPE The event will take place from July 31 to August 2, 2020, on the Gold Coast More world-class speakers from around the globe are stepping up to present at and participate in Wire & Gas 2020, joining a growing line-up that also includes EV repair expert Craig Van Batenburg on his first trip to Australia from his base in the United States. Also travelling from overseas will be Michael Ingvardsen, who is the President of European VASA counterpart MACPartners and the Technical Training Manager of Danish engine cooling and climate system components manufacturer, Nissens. From closer to home is Jet Charge Chief Executive Officer Tim Washington, who leads Australia’s largest supplier, installer and manager of electric vehicle charging stations. VASA says it is also still working hard on building out this world-class roster of speakers and trainers further.
Craig Van Batenburg A workshop owner turned training provider through his Automotive Career Development Center (ACDC) in Worcester, Massachusetts, VASA says Craig’s “peerless” knowledge of vehicle electrification stems from his first hybrid car purchase in 1999. He began delivering hybrid vehicle training resources in 2000 before expanding into electric vehicle training resources from 2008.
Craig, who has contributed a series of technical articles to VASA’s SightGlass News print publication, describes his business as “existing to keep independent shops in business.” “We make sure your 12-volt brain is well developed and then we create a high voltage brain to use along with it,” Craig said. Craig also says he helps ensure “your 12-volt brain is not used on a high-voltage problem.”
commercial refrigeration training as nothing yet exists for automotive applications.
Michael Ingvardsen
Tim Washington
Regarded by some as Europe’s Grant Hand, Michael travels the world helping workshops successfully transition to R1234yf and delivering the Nissens Training Concept he masterminded, in a unique and charismatic style.
In addition to founding Jet Charge, Tim is CoFounder of Chargefox, the largest EV charging network in Australia, which is building the nation’s first ultra-rapid charging network. He also chairs the Australian EV Council, which aims to accelerate the electrification of road transport and represents a range of associated industries, including energy companies, vehicle manufacturers and service providers.
In his MACPartners role, Michael is pushing for better compliance and training in a hope it will ease the transition to low-GWP refrigerants and reduce the incidence of illegal R134a retrofits on YF systems, whether intentional or simply due to lack of education.
About Wire & Gas 2020 Wire & Gas 2020 will take place from July 31 to August 2 next year at Marriott Surfers Paradise and SuperCool Group headquarters in Ormeau, on Queensland’s Gold Coast.
To this end he is developing a training standard for European industry to follow, which will include R744 (carbon dioxide) as this has now been adopted by Mercedes-Benz and Volkswagen Group on some models.
Early bird and VASA member-exclusive ticket discounts will be offered, so pre-register your interest by emailing events@vasa.org.au
To prepare himself for automotive systems running R744, Michael undertook R744-specific
A/C COMPRESSOR KITS A HUGE SUCCESS The kits include all the parts needed to fully restore a failed air conditioning system Adrad says it launches new products regularly to expand and extend its range of quality parts. How customers respond is the ultimate measure of success, it says, stating that Adrad’s A/C Compressor Kits are an example of when a new product clearly addresses a need in the market. Steve Vassallo, Adrad Business Development Manager for air conditioning products, is extremely pleased with the results. “As we approach the second Summer when our A/C Compressor Kits have been available, we are seeing unprecedented levels of sales growth which confirms this offering is just what our customers are looking for,” Steve said. Adrad A/C Compressor Kits include all the parts needed to fully restore a failed air conditioning system. Each Adrad Compressor Kit provides the Compressor; Condenser; Compressor Oil; Thermal Expansion Valve (or Orifice Tube) and Receiver Drier / Accumulator. Hoses and fittings can be cleaned out and refitted
but the critical parts are all new. Each kit includes a bottle of Air Conditioning System Treatment and System Guard Straps for security and tamper protection; and you even get a Measuring Cup. Purchasing these parts as a kit has many benefits, says Adrad, which states that it saves time because there is only a single part number to order and it is also convenient because the job of matching the correct parts together is already done for you.
Adrad says comments received from workshops, such as the following, are encouraging.
install Adrad Compressor Kits. They are reliable, quality units at an affordable price,” said T. Edgar of Kats Automotive. “Buying the Compressor Kit saves the customer money, plus the knowledge that we the fitters have all the correct parts to do the job in one go. Well done Adrad,” said K. Courtney of Natrad Strathpine. Adrad says getting the job done right means the vehicle owner is happy with a fully restored A/C system, covered by a three-year national warranty and the repairer is satisfied with a reduced risk of come-backs.
“I have found fitting a compressor kit the best way to go about the job. That’s why I use and
For details, contact your Adrad stockist or call 1800 882 043.
Available to suit more than 1,400 vehicle applications, Adrad Compressor Kits come with an “industry-leading,” three-year nationwide warranty. Adrad says this reflects its confidence in the quality of parts they supply and also provides an incentive for repairers to do the work thoroughly so that you only have to “replace it once.”
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KEEPING YOU COMFORTABLE Alemlube is a specialist in automotive workshop servicing products, including air conditioning Throughout Australia, Alemlube Automotive, a division of Alemlube, says it has built a reputation for “excellence in distribution, sales and the total support of all automotive workshop servicing products.” Alemlube says a very distinct and unique advantage of purchasing its automotive air conditioning service units is the country wide installation, service and support network coupled to real industry-experienced people. The Alemlube team says it delivers unequalled product service and states that it “certainly offers an industry leading approach” to product knowledge, advice and after sales support. Four air conditioning rechargers available from Alemlube, the AA1000, AA1500P, AA2000 and AA5000R, provide true cutting edge technology and superb efficiency when it comes to recovery, recycling, evacuating and recharging of R134A refrigerant (AA5000R for use with refrigerant type R1234YF), says Alemlube. Operating at pressures of up to 363psi (25bar), the AA1000 and AA1500P reportedly produce flow rates of up to 72 L/min, the AA2000 and the AA5000R up to 142 L/min; while Alemlube says low noise operation and operating temperatures ranging from +10ºC to +50ºC ensures reliable performance
The vast majority of all vehicles manufactured today come with air conditioning and climate control systems as standard. Many drivers experience the benefits of air-con in their vehicle on a hot day, defrosting windows on a cold day and the comfort of climate control. And, just like other parts and systems in the vehicle’s operation, the air-conditioning system also needs regular attention to ensure it continues to work efficiently and effectively. Actually, it has been found that up to 10 percent of air-con gas permeates from the vehicle’s air-con system every year, which means that it may not work as well as it should. This is why car manufacturers recommend that the air-con system is recharged with gas and lubricant every two years. As we know, this service is not part of a routine vehicle servicing, so if the vehicle is more than two years old Alemlube says it’s probably due for an air-con recharge. The four units available from Alemlube are said to make the recharge process quite simple, which involves recovering the old refrigerant gas from the air-con system and recycling it before replacing this with the correct amount of new refrigerant and lubricant as per the vehicle manufacturer’s recommendation. A vacuum test is also performed to ensure there are no cracks or
damage in the customer’s vehicle air-conditioning system that could cause the gas to leak out. Alemlube explains that within 30 minutes the whole recharge process is completed, resulting in once again having refreshing cool air on demand. It cautions that air-con systems that are not recharged regularly will be less effective and have to work harder to produce cool air, which puts more strain on the engine and uses more fuel and reduces efficiency. Alemlube invites you to contact its team in your state or territory or visit www.alemlube.com.au for more information on how the AA5000R, AA2000, AA1500P and AA1000 air conditioning rechargers can improve your workshop servicing productivity.
PREMIUM AIR CONDITIONING PARTS Unique Auto Parts has been around for more than 20 years Through its many Summers, the Unique Auto Parts team says they have learned the importance of supplying premium parts to keep those vital systems such as air conditioners running at their finest. Unique Auto Parts reportedly only supplies the very best in new parts for European vehicles such as Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Seat, Skoda, Mini, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Volvo and Porsche, with parts for both passenger and commercial vehicles.
Air con condensers have also come a long way and due to technological advances, is much thinner and lighter, making them physically easier to replace as well as being more readily available. Due to this reduction in cost it’s now a more reasonable option to replace damaged air conditioning components, leaving no reason to swelter through the Summer months with poor air con.
A vital component to any air conditioning system is the compressor and any damage or lack of maintenance can lead to insufficient or no cooling.
Unique Auto Parts stocks both air con compressors and condensers as well as all the other integral components to keep air conditioning systems running efficiently including receiver driers, TX valves evaporators, pressure switches, blower fans, cabin filters and more.
There was a time that compressors were very expensive to replace and there were limited options, but Unique Auto Parts are happy to report this is no longer the case as with the addition of Behr Hella thermal products it is now able to provide what it says is an affordable OE option.
Unique Auto Parts has five convenient locations around Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth which are all fully stocked with air conditioning components as well as many other parts from reputable aftermarket and OE brands such as JP Group, Quinton Hazell, Meyle, Trucktec, Bosch, SKF, Hella, Behr Hella, Victor Reinz and Carlube.
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Delivery is available from all locations and freight is dispatched Australia wide on a daily basis using the most efficient couriers. Unique Auto Parts has also just celebrated 10 years as a preferred Capricorn supplier, so be sure to have your Capricorn number ready when you call. For more information, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au
AIR CONDITIONING
BOSCH AIR-CON SERVICE UNITS Now available at CoolDrive Automotive industry leader Bosch has launched a new range of advanced-technology airconditioning service units that are now available in Australasia through CoolDrive Auto Parts. Paying due deference to CoolDrive’s origins as an automotive air-conditioning specialist, Bosch says it has chosen to offer its next-level ACS 863 and ACS 763 service units through the national automotive parts distributor. The Bosch ACS units are operator-oriented to make maintenance of R1234yf systems in cars and commercial vehicles as easy as possible, whether the work required is for service or repair. Each mobile ACS unit features an adjustable control console for enhanced operator viewing no matter how tight the workshop confines may be, and the durable modular design ensures all functions are easily controlled, aided by a smartphone app that allows users to check the status of operations in real time. Bosch’s ACS air-conditioning service units provide contextual shortcut help messages to guide operators through the servicing process, which is operationally selectable between fully automatic and single service modes. A Deep Recovery function ensures 99 percent of the refrigerant is recovered quickly and efficiently, and combines with a dual-stage vacuum pump
with the highest flow rate on the market to achieve faster and most importantly deeper dehydration of the air-conditioning system. There’s also an integrated system of pressure and temperature controls. Designed for both e-vehicle and conventional airconditioning systems, the Bosch ACS units avoid the danger of cross contamination of lubricants thanks to their independent oil injection systems, user-fillable sealed bottles and an automated flushing cycle for the service hoses at every oil change. Other features include an integrated leak detection system for inert gasses (NOx, nitrogen, formiergas), an optional refrigerant purity identifier, and an optimal 22 litre refrigerant tank which delivers the best balance between charging performance, flushing and dead space. “We are entering the peak air-conditioning period nationally, where the weather means airconditioning units are being used just about everywhere, so servicing and maintenance requirements are now at the forefront of minds for workshops around the country,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Product Manager – Air Conditioning, David Pude, said. “Bosch’s new ACS 863 and 763 units are absolutely state-of-the-art and have been
developed from the experiences of customers with earlier units, with the primary purpose of ensuring the easiest and most effective servicing regime in the workshop to reduce down time.” The Bosch ACS 863 and ACS 763 air-conditioning service units meet SAE and European standards, ensuring correct and environmentally friendly handling of refrigerants. Further information on the Bosch ACS units is available via CoolDrive branches nationwide, or online at www.cooldrive.com.au
KEEP COOL With Aeroflow air conditioning products For years it’s been difficult to get good looking air conditioning components, says Aeroflow. With the quality of home and pro car builds rising every day, the call for quality air conditioning fittings, hose and components is bigger than ever, for parts that don’t just work well but also enhance the engine bay and complement the level of your build. Aeroflow says it answers this call with a range of air conditioning parts that will “blow you away.” The company offers chrome plated stainless steel fittings in #6, #8 and #10 sizes with and without charge ports in straight, 35, 90 and 135 degrees. These mate with Aeroflow 800 series nylon stainless steel hose in #6, #8 and #10, which is manufactured to cope with R134A gas. It also has a full complement of replacement parts including o-rings, olives, valves and more. At the same time, Aeroflow says its polished
aluminium charge port covers add the finishing touch to any set of A/C lines. To get the lines tastefully through your firewall, Aeroflow supplies a great range of billet firewall plates and fittings in dual and four port for A/C lines and heater lines which come in polished aluminium or black anodized finish. There is also NPT to A/C adaptors and A/C to AN mushroom adaptors for converting your heater lines for that uniform look.
Whether you’re building a street car or a show stopper, Aeroflow says it has the air conditioning components to suit you. Its team encourages you to grab yourself a free catalogue online at www.aeroflowperformance. com to check out the full range, stating that you will be amazed at the quality and value on offer. For more information on all Aeroflow products, shop online and find your closest distributor visit www.aeroflowperformance.com or call Rocket industries on 02 8825 1900. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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AIR CONDITIONING
KEEP COOL WITH SUPERFORMANCE Stocking Vintage Air, SPAL and Maradyne fans, Superformance says it will have a solution for your vehicle’s needs Superformance offers a wide range of Vintage Air universal and surefit air-conditioning systems and componentry to suit your Hot Rod or Muscle Car. Installing a new climate control system into any vehicle can be an intimidating challenge, even for the experienced automotive project enthusiast. That’s why the team at Vintage Air say they have designed their A/C climate control systems with ease of installation in mind.
Superformance or visit the www.vintageair.com website. If your vehicle does not have a surefit kit available, Vintage Air says it will still have climate control solutions for your Street Rod. It explains that several different universal systems are available, including its popular Gen II systems, which range in size from the GEN II Compac to the GEN II Mini and GEN II Super.
Vintage Air surefit climate control series products are individually designed for each vehicle model, utilising factory body features and sheet metal locations to optimise the performance of the system in each vehicle shape.
These GEN II universal kits are optional as Heat and Cooling or with Defrost. Each system reportedly features high torque gear driven motors for increased airflow to outlets, intelligent CAD designed housings which improve airflow significantly compared to conventional designs, a heavy duty wiring harness with all the circuit breakers and relays ready to go and an isolated blower fan motor to reduce noise and increase its lifetime.
To find out if a surefit system is available for your vehicle, you can contact the team at
Importantly, says Vintage Air, no longer will your climate control system rely on engine vacuum;
Pairing quality components with the latest technology available, Vintage Air says its products aim to provide quality air-conditioning solutions for your classic vehicle, muscle car or hot rod.
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which can be an issue on high performing engines. Superformance is said to be one of Australia’s largest performance automotive superstores, carrying a wide range of climate control components to solve your air-conditioning issues. Included in the range are common A/C replacement parts such as Compressors, Evaporators, Condensers, Engine Cooling products and much more. Stocking Vintage Air, SPAL and Maradyne fans, Superformance says it will have a solution for your vehicle’s needs. For more information, visit www.superformance.com.au or call 07 3488 7888.
AIR CONDITIONING
PERFORMANCE DRIVEN TECHNOLOGY Davies, Craig Thermatic Fans Davies, Craig Pty Ltd has been manufacturing Thermatic Electric Fans in Australia since 1971. Basic metal blade fans were being used in the air conditioning industry at that time when Australian engineers Daryl Davies and Bill Craig created ‘Thermatic Electric Fans.’ Davies, Craig explains that its Thermatic Electric Fans are manufactured from strong, lightweight 66/Nylon glass material, being heat-resistant and durable. It says the Thermatic Electric Fans are the most powerful in their class and especially suited for a wide variety of air conditioning applications and that all Davies, Craig Thermatic Electric Fans are suitable for both air conditioning condenser and radiator cooling. The low-profile, high-performance Thermatic Electric Fans provide constant, powerful air flow
which increases air conditioning heat exchange for cooler air conditioning and/or engine operation. All Davies, Craig Thermatic Electric Fans offer reverse polarity and reversible blades for bidirectional, upstream (pusher) and/or downstream (puller) air flow as standard equipment. Davies, Craig also provides a variety of Thermatic Electric Switches which enable you to accurately control the operation of the fan/s commensurate with the required temperature and its Thermatic Electric Fans are economically packaged with mounting feet included.
Davies, Craig says that if you are wondering how a small Australian manufacturing company grew to become one of the world leaders in the cooling field, the answer is simple: innovation. It says its ability to create new solutions to a variety of cooling issues and a commitment to technology, service and quality has made Davies, Craig a very successful Australian manufacturer and exporter which provides high class cooling technology products to air conditioning and automotive aftermarkets in Australia and around the world. For more information, visit www.daviescraig.com.au
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FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS
HIGH TIME FOR THE BLOODY VOLVO DRIVER Since it was taken over by Chinese backers in 2010, Volvo Cars has embarked on one of the most intriguing revitalisation programs the modern car industry has ever seen. Now, as the fruit of this partnership continues to ripen, Harrison Boudakin looks at how it all came to be, and what lies further down the road for this most storied of Scandinavian marques
A grey, Uber-branded Volvo XC90 lying forlornly on its side in Arizona became one of the defining images of the autonomous-vehicle arms race that escalated so rapidly over the last few years. It was also, however, one of the many news stories we’ve seen in the last 24 months involving Volvo and the world of disruptive, future-oriented technology – and that says rather a lot about the reform agenda being prosecuted inside this fascinating Swedish automaker. Of course, many brands these days have come to see the shifting automotive landscape as an opportunity to break the nexus between who they were, and who they want to be, but Volvo have been perhaps the most radically ambitious, and successful, of the lot. Much of this is attributable to the company’s high-profile sale to the Chinese industrial giant, Geely, back in 2010, which liberated the Swedes from 11 years of sclerotic management under Ford. Since then, Volvo’s new Chinese relationship has become nothing if not a model for how foreign ownership of a well-known car manufacturer should be done – not least because the suits in Beijing have been willing to put some proper fiscal muscle behind the company’s bigpicture, expansionist plans, and have let the Swedes work largely unfettered by corporate fiddling. The result has been that the sick man of Ford is now the rising star of Eurasia. It’s a combination of factors that have underpinned this zesty renaissance, not just in Volvo’s image, but in its approach to engineering and its sense of its place among the automotive elite. Having been left with what was, in engineering terms, a blank canvas after the Geely takeover, Volvo’s foremost thinkers developed a really rather intelligent framework for the essential reconstruction of their brand. At the heart of the plan are two very flexible product architectures, which together will be found – in various forms – under the skin of every one of the company’s future products. This modular approach is not necessarily new – after all, the Volkswagen Group have been practicing 100
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it for decades – but Volvo have added their own twist in the form of a very distinct engine strategy. Eschewing the sweet straight-sixes and V8 engines of their past, the Swedes have instead gone all-in on a four-cylinder-only strategy, using different states of turbocharging and/ or hybridised-electrification to achieve a performance hierarchy. It’s an approach that is paying particularly strong dividends in this age of engineering uncertainty, as automakers begin the delicate task of weening the buying public onto the idea of plug-in hybrids and battery-electric vehicles. In fact, it’s worth noting just how successfully Volvo’s marketing department have managed to
spin this strategy, into something even greater than the sum of its parts. In July 2017, the Swedes made quite a splash in the international press, when they boldly declared “Volvo Cars to go all-electric from 2019” – a headline which rather conveniently forwent any explanation of the fact that “all-electric” simply meant every car would be offered with some element of electric assistance. But while the implication that Volvo was walking away from the internal combustion engine turned out to be dead wrong, the statement nevertheless put Volvo’s ambitions on the map in a big way. Of course, tricky press statements do not a renaissance make – great design, on the other
FUTURE AUTO INNOVATIONS
hand, does. It’s possible to argue that more than any other factor, it is Volvo’s pursuit of a new aesthetic language that has contributed most to the dramatic shift in how people perceive this one-time pariah of a brand. Former VP of Volvo Design, Thomas Ingenlath, who kick-started Volvo’s design revolution, mined a sweet vein of very balanced, palatable design forms, which quite deliberately shunned the kind of overwrought sportiness that the Germans so religiously purvey. The beauty isn’t just skin-deep either: Volvo has absolutely nailed their interior style of late, pursuing a crisp, iPad-esque technovibe, that nevertheless still feels decidedly Scandinavian in its warmth and quality.
Do not underestimate the sort of power that resides in this particular success: one only has to look at the explosive rise of Audi in the early noughties, as an example of what happens when designers hit a sweet spot, and then build on it relentlessly. If Volvo’s current form is anything to go by, we can expect further greatness to visit upon the Swedes. What is far more difficult to predict, however, is where Volvo’s ambitious forays into the autonomous, connected universe will ultimately lead them. There’s no doubt they are approaching new pockets of automotive innovation with an especially bullish zeal, having forged some highprofile partnerships with Silicon Valley’s finest quite early in the piece.
The aforementioned Uber tie-up is particularly noteworthy – this ongoing collaboration on driverless research will see the Swedes sell 24,000 vehicles to the ride-sharing giant, who will use them to grow their fleet of autonomous taxis. Despite the well-publicised 2017 incident in Arizona, in every other respect the program is forging ahead at some pace; in fact, Volvo and Uber just recently announced a major deal with prominent chip maker, Nvidia, who are considered to be among the industry leaders in the development of the digital architecture underpinning the driverless revolution. For Volvo, being seen to be jostling in amongst the movers and shakers in Silicon Valley is a crucial pinion in their ongoing effort to redefine how people perceive who they are as brand. So far, the efforts have paid off: never before has the name Volvo carried with it so many positive connotations, which no doubt augurs well for the company, as the industry itself pushes ever deeper into what is perhaps the most transformational phase in its 133 year history. And therein lies the most significant achievement for the Swedes: since the Geely takeover, they have managed to give everyone – from the layman to the astute observer – a sense that Volvo are really ‘in it’; that they have the confidence to make the big punts, to play with the new trendsetters, and to thrive in an automotive universe whose future is equal parts exciting and unknown. In other words, it’s high time to be a bloody Volvo driver.
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TRADE TALK
DRIVING FMP BENDIX FORWARD
From selling diamonds and driving Porsches to safely stopping Australia’s cars FMP Bendix General Manager, George Kyriakopoulos, says he landed his dream job when he was promoted to the role at the brake manufacturer 18 months ago. Born and bred in Melbourne, he has always been a car enthusiast. “I grew up wanting to design cars but ended up with a Commerce degree from the University of Melbourne instead. Despite falling in love with Economics I pursued Accounting as a career, however that didn’t stop me dreaming about cars – there were many notepads with little cars drawn in the corners,” he says. “I became particularly intrigued with cars after trips overseas opened up my eyes to a variety of vehicles that I had never seen or heard of before.” George’s taste for exotic cars had also been developed during his first job. “Whilst studying I worked in a Jewellery store in Melbourne’s Bourke Street Mall selling everything from watches to diamond rings. I had a great time especially during the very busy Christmas periods,” he says. “The store owner had a Porsche 928 with a custom designed case for carrying diamond rings. There were occasions where I would be allowed to drive it from the car park to the mall, which was a big thrill for me at the time.” Until the Bendix role, his career didn’t really follow an automotive path, but his finance and commerce background gave him a strong grounding to pursue any market sector.
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“For me, accounting was the ticket that allowed me entry to all aspects of a business,” the former FMP Bendix Finance Director explains. “I had a few finance roles and moved from Head Office to Business Units and it was always the business units that I enjoyed the most. I had moved to a General Management role fairly early in my career and when that business was sold I went back to Finance. Moving back to Finance was harder than moving to General Management. “As a Finance professional you have a role to play and it can be restrictive. I love being involved in all aspects of the business, I love being involved with customers, with sales, with manufacturing, marketing, engineering – the General Manager’s ticket is VIP access all areas and it’s wonderful.” George believes the key to a successful career is actually becoming engaged in the position that you hold at any given point in time. “For me it’s about taking an interest in the business you are part of. Don’t just look at the work you are doing,” George states. “Let me clarify – do the job you have been assigned to do and do it well, and also make yourself available for other things. Show your passion!” George tries not to procrastinate over what needs to be done next. He prefers to just get on with getting the job done. “I don’t look back and ask whether I made the right or wrong decisions. All I know is that even
George Kyriakopoulos if you don’t make the right decision, you move on. I like the adage – if life gives you lemons, you make lemonade. To put it another way, make your wrong decisions work for you,” he rationalises. George has a wife and teenage children and says “family is everything” to him. His hobbies include bike riding and he loves the freedom that it provides. “I have a mountain bike that I ride, it’s far slower than a road bike but I like the fact that I can go anywhere I want. I can make my own path if I want to. I don’t listen to music when I ride, I just take in the sights and sounds of my surroundings,” he says. Bendix began in 1955 to service the emerging Australian automotive industry. In 1965 the company won its first contract to
TRADE TALK
supply General Motors Holden and continued supplying Holden until it exited Australian manufacturing in 2017. Over the years FMP supplied all Australian car companies with Australian made Original Equipment braking products. “Our products are centred around braking. We were the Original Equipment supplier of choice for all the Australian car manufacturers and remain the individual aftermarket braking brand of choice for all Australians,” George says. He explains that Bendix services all sectors of the Australian car parc. “Ultimately our customers are the drivers of sedans, 4WDs, SUVs and trucks. Firstly we want to make sure that they are safe, but we also want them to have a great braking experience. Directly we service Holden, Ford, Toyota and
of course the other Australian icons in the automotive aftermarket like Burson, Repco and Supercheap,” he says. George believes that the most important feature of Bendix brakes is safety. “Australian drivers want to be safe; and they want smooth quiet braking with low dust. We have a team of people in Australia dedicated to that task. We test on our dynos; we scan materials through the electron microscope and then we drive! We drive until we get it right,” George explains. “For me it’s about getting the best braking experience for the unique Australian conditions. We all use our vehicles differently. In Australia a Hilux is a vehicle for the mines and yet it’s also a family 4WD that rotates from a school runabout to an adventure vehicle. The manufacturer of
these versatile vehicles doesn’t know what the owner has in mind and that’s where we come in. “Our local know-how, our local product engineering, our local product management, and our Australian manufacturing are our biggest advantage – we don’t make decisions from afar!” Like many companies in the Australian automotive sector, Bendix has had to face the challenge of the demise of the local passenger car manufacturing industry. “In recent times the end of Australian car manufacturing was a difficult thing to deal with,” George explains. “Original Equipment was so entrenched in our organisation. What we learnt in making brake components for new cars put us in good stead for the aftermarket and we have maintained the high standards that come with being an OE manufacturer. This year we were granted the Ford Q1 award as an independent aftermarket supplier, which was no easy feat.” George states that the aftermarket is now the major area on the Australian automotive scene. “The Aftermarket industry has emerged as a powerhouse in the Australian economy. The AAAA brings together a vast range of industries in the sector and it gives us one strong united voice,” he says. George’s focus while at Bendix is on improving the customer’s confidence in braking products. “The user experience aspect is where I want FMP Bendix to excel at every level. From our customer to our customers’ customer. It’s intricate but you can’t make one level happy and think that your job is done. Everyone must be happy!” For more from FMP Bendix, visit www.bendix.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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BUSINESS SERVICES
A NEW WAY OF SELLING Times are changing and businesses are changing with them Trade wars, climate change, banking royal commissions, the poor Aussie dollar, historically low interest rates…it is no wonder there is so much negative sentiment out there. With these changing times, businesses in the future will look very different and how they interact with customers is already changing. myRep Solutions says it is bringing a fresh approach to sales and companies of all sizes are catching on, with larger companies freeing themselves of the economic burden of wage pressure while small businesses are leveraging dynamic, cost effective sales solutions at a fraction of the traditional cost. In the USA they are called manufacturers reps but here in Australia businesses are engaging sales professionals like myRep Solutions to contract out their sales functions. Like all things there are pros and cons: Pros: • engage a sales professional at a fraction of the cost (no more staff wages or superannuation); • no ongoing expenses like tolls, car allowances, travel, fuel or meal expenses; • a sales professional who is self-motivated – who only earns more when they sell more; and • a sales professional who only represents noncompeting products. Cons • not a full time team member; and • the sales professional represents multiple companies – not just yours. myRep Solutions explains that sales contractors are typically engaged in a defined territory and they should be equally adept at servicing an existing customer base and starting a new one from scratch. It advises that you should seek sales contractors with industry experience and existing customer contacts, as one of the advantages of using sales contractors is that their pre-existing networks can be accessed and leveraged to benefit your business. Engaging your customers through a sales contractor is a new way of thinking and a new way of selling, but it may be just the boost your business needs to move forward says myRep Solutions. For more information, visit www.myrep.com.au 104
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CYBER THREATS: ARE YOU PROTECTED? In this article, Austbrokers ABS takes a look at the threats of today’s digital age Ten to 15 years ago the threats were visible: fire, flood, earthquakes and so on; and whilst these risks still exist, Austbrokers ABS says today we also have threats we cannot physically see to worry about: technology related threats.
What are these threats? • Criminal Enterprises – usually well organised and looking mostly for financial gains, effectively running a well-structured business. • Hacktivist – groups of like-minded individuals with ideologies. Looking to disrupt organisations and governments for their cause and aiming to inflict reputational damage on targets. • State Sponsored – highly sophisticated government backed organisations often based in China, North Korea or Russia. Looking to bring down networks (destructive attacks) or in many cases steal trade secrets from government as well as business intellectual property. • Increase in targeted ransomware attacks against businesses. • Increase in social engineering events against businesses (through Office 365 breaches), resulting in loss of information and money.
The Cyber Insurance Market The Current Gross Written Premium in the Australian market is approaching $100m and is vastly increasing due to the cyber-attacks hitting our shores. This has contributed to the large publicised global breaches, particularly in the US, where the cyber insurance market is considered to be a ‘hard market’. Despite increases in local breaches however, the cyber insurance market in Australia is still considered to be a ‘soft market’ that has premiums at a lower level than other countries; however larger corporate accounts are being underwritten closer than previously. Austbrokers ABS says it is still a good time to be a consumer as a broad cover is available.
What does Cyber Insurance cover? • Third Party Claims – arising from a civil liability in relation to the failure to perform professional services. • Privacy Notification and Crisis Management Expenses – expenses for an organisation to notify individuals and regulators of a data breach, including legal, forensic and public relations costs.
• Data Recovery Expenses – expenses for an organisation to repair and restore their computer systems, including third party forensic IT experts. • Business Interruption Expenses – loss of income for an organisation due to a cyber event occurring at their business. • Data Extortion Expenses – expenses to deal with cyber extortion threats such as ransomware. • Security and Privacy Liability – coverage for claims from third parties in relation to security or privacy issues, including potential fines and penalties that may be issued by a regulator. • Multimedia Liability – coverage for claims from third parties in relation to multimedia content, including libel/slander and defamation issues.
Securing your Business Austbrokers ABS recommends that you consider the following to help secure your business: • Security – work closely with IT providers and consider anti-virus programs, firewalls, encryption, regular patching, vulnerability and penetration testing services. • Processes – strong business continuity and disaster recovery planning as well as contractual management with vendors and suppliers with who data is being shared. • People – ongoing education and training within organisations around threats and detecting threats. • Enact Two Factor Authentication on Office 365 accounts. • Enact a call back procedure when being asked to transfer funds to new bank accounts. • Keep up to date with patches and anti-virus signatures. • Engage a third party to perform vulnerability and penetration testing on at least a biannual basis. • Educate staff (they can be the weakest link) on cyber threats. Ensure they know the processes around opening suspicious emails and understand the SEF procedures within the company. For more information, visit www.austbrokersabs.com.au
HR
PUBLIC HOLIDAYS OVER THE CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR PERIOD As we near the end of the year, it is important to be aware of the upcoming public holidays and how they may impact your business and employees PUBLIC HOLIDAY ENTITLEMENTS
Payment for working on a public holiday
Entitlement to be absent
Where an employee works on a public holiday, they may be entitled to penalty rates under their modern award. For instance: VMRSR Award • Permanent employees are paid at the rate of time and a half in addition to their ordinary rate (150 percent + 100 percent = 250 percent). Note that overtime on a public holiday is paid at a rate of double time and a half (250 percent). • Casual employees are paid time and three quarters of their base rate (not casual rate) in addition to their base rate (175 percent + 100 percent = 275 percent). Clerks Award • Permanent employees are paid at double time and a half (250 percent). • Casual employees are paid at double time and a half of their base rate plus their casual loading (250 percent + 25 percent = 275 percent). Different public holiday rates or conditions may apply to different types of employees under the above awards or in other awards. Please contact Employer Assist for confirmation of the public holiday rate that applies to your employee.
The National Employment Standards provide all employees with the right to not work on a public holiday. While an employer can reasonably request that an employee work on a declared public holiday, the employee can refuse on reasonable grounds, such as family commitments or responsibilities. However, if an employer operates a seven-day retail operation and an employee is normally required to operate across a seven-day roster period, it may not be considered reasonable for an employee to refuse to work a public holiday.
Payment for absence For all full and part-time employees who normally work on a day that a public holiday falls, the employee should be paid for the ordinary hours they would have worked on that day at the base rate of pay (ie. excludes incentive-based payments and bonuses, loadings, monetary allowances, overtime or penalty rates, or any other separately identifiable amounts). If an employee does not normally work on a day that a public holiday falls, they are not entitled to any payment or other benefit under the National Employment Standards or most modern awards, including the Vehicle Manufacturing, Repair, Service and Retail Award 2010 (VMRSR Award) and Clerks – Private Sector Award 2010 (Clerks Award). For specific details on other modern awards that may apply to your business, please contact Employer Assist.
Substitute day An employer and an employee may agree to substitute a public holiday for another day. If a public holiday is substituted, then the substitute day is regarded as the public holiday and penalty rates are only paid on the substitute day.
The following days have been declared Public Holidays for this year’s Christmas/New Year period: Date
NSW VIC QLD
Tuesday 24 December *
SA
WA TAS ACT
X (from 7pm to midnight)
NT X (from 7pm to midnight)
Rostered day off In the case of an employee under the VMRSR Award who’s ordinary hours of work are arranged in such a manner as to entitle the employee to a rostered day off (for more information on rostered days off, see the VMRSR Award), the weekday to be taken off will not coincide with a public holiday. Provided that, in the event that a public holiday is prescribed after a roster is arranged the employer will allow the employee to take an alternative weekday off instead of the public holiday.
Checking Your Conditions The information provided in this publication is necessarily general. Different rates may apply to different types of employees or businesses may have different arrangements for their public holidays depending on the provisions in their modern award, enterprise agreements, contracts of employment and workplace policies. Before this holiday season, it is important to check what conditions and penalty rates apply to your employees.
Wednesday 25 December
X
X
X
X
X X X
X
AAAA Member Benefits
Thursday 26 December
X
X
X
X
X
X
Employer Assist provides all AAAA members with advice regarding all aspects of your workplace and employment law. We can assist you in understanding your employment obligations in relation to public holidays and all other matters relating to the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) and Modern Awards. Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you require any assistance.
Tuesday 31 December
X X
X (from 7pm to midnight)
X (from 7pm to midnight)
Wednesday 1 January
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
Monday 27 January
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
* The Qld Government has introduced a Bill into Parliament on 19 September 2019 to make Christmas Eve a public holiday from 6pm until midnight. The Bill has been referred to the education, employment and small business committee for consideration.
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CONSUMER LAW
ONLINE REVIEWS AND THE AUSTRALIAN CONSUMER LAW Online reviews have a great potential of promoting your business However, caution must be taken in using and managing online reviews when promoting your business to ensure that the business is not inadvertently failing to comply with the Australian Consumer Law (ACL).
What is an online review? An online review is a review by a consumer of services or products received from a business. Online reviews can be made on your business’ website, on a social media platform or a website platform allowing reviews to be posted about different businesses (together referred to a Platforms).
How can an online review fail to comply with the ACL? If an online review is false or misleading then it will fail to comply with the ACL. There are several ways that an online review can be false or misleading, including online reviews: • that are fake, as these mislead the consumer by providing a review that does not present the actual opinion of the person posting the review. Such reviews may have been put on a Platform by the business itself or by a competitor of a business. For example, the business may write a positive review for their business or a negative review for a competitor using a false name, or ask another person to post a positive review for the business or a negative review for a competitor (often without having used the product or service); • that are written by family or friends of the business without disclosing their relationship to the business; • that are written by a person who has received a financial or non-financial benefit to write an exaggerated positive review about a product or service they have used; or • that are written by a person who has received an incentive, such as a discount on the next service, to write a positive review (details on how to approach incentive offers for reviews is set out under the heading “Offering incentives for reviews”). A misleading impression is also likely to be created where online reviews are manipulated, including: • removing or hiding negative reviews posted to a Platform; • editing a negative review on a Platform; or • preventing consumers from having the opportunity to provide a review. For example, the Federal Court of Australia found that an accommodation provider manipulated TripAdvisor reviews by changing customer 106
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emails, or withholding customer emails, to prevent a review invitation being sent to customers who may have had a negative experience. If the Platform uses an aggregated rating system (such as a point system), then the number of reviews making up the aggregated rating should also be provided, for example “15 reviews average seven points”.
Offering incentives for reviews If your business wishes to offer incentives to consumers to provide reviews, it is important not to be misleading in doing so. The following guidance is provided by the Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) to assist: • ensure that the incentive is offered and provided to consumers regardless of whether the consumer is likely to make a positive or negative review; • make sure that the consumer is aware that they will receive the incentive regardless of whether the review is positive or negative; and • ensure the incentive is prominently disclosed to persons reading the review.
What can be done about negative reviews? If a negative review is posted about your business, it is important to be cautious in the steps the business takes. If the review is a genuine review from a customer, the business will likely be engaging in misleading conduct if the business deletes, hides or edits the review. A positive step that the business may wish to take is to place a public post in response to the negative review. In doing so, the business should also be genuine and consider the wording and approach used with a view to minimising the situation. The negative review may only be removed if the business actually believes the review is fake. Indeed, fake reviews should be removed as they are misleading. If a fake review is removed the business should keep a file on the reasons it considered the review to be fake as the business may be required to prove its decision to remove the review.
Non-Compliance If you promote your business using online reviews which are found to contain false or misleading representations, the following may apply: • the ACCC may issue an infringement notice,
carrying a financial penalty of 60 penalty units for a body corporate (currently totaling $12,600), and 12 penalty units for an individual (currently totaling $2,520); • the court may impose a maximum criminal or civil penalty for a body corporate of up to the greater of $10 million, three times the value gained or if this can’t be determined, then 10 percent of the annual turnover of the body corporate in the 12 month period before the act, or for an individual up to $500,000; • Non-punitive orders may also be made, such as corrective advertising and the establishment of a compliance program.
Takeaways The key takeaways are: • Take steps to ensure your online reviews are genuine and ensure family and friends posting reviews disclose their relationship. • If offering an incentive for a review ensure you follow the ACCC guidance. • Do not post, or request others to post, fake reviews. • Do not edit, or hide or delete, a negative review (unless you a sure it is a fake review).
AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters. If you have any questions relating to the above case, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au
INSIDE INVENTORY
INVENTORY MANAGEMENT IN A CHANGING CLIMATE Our world is in trouble. Many dither, but our children tell us we must change for their world Take public transport; turn off the light; change your habits and behaviours…the environment is changing and there is an inexorable shift in the business climate too.
Changing what is managed There are major technology changes happening in part because of the drive to improve utility, safety and comfort. However, many changes are being driven by things like emission standards and the need to respond to climate change. As reported by Reuters on 4 October, “Denmark, backed by 10 other European Union countries, called for a strategy to phase out diesel and petrol cars, including allowing the ban of sales at member state-level by 2030 to combat climate change.” These sorts of changes will inevitably influence the Car Parc here in Australia – we are not an island unto ourselves. The changes will be accompanied by the rise of electric and autonomous vehicles and changes in vehicle ownership models and maintenance approaches. This will affect the range of parts being carried and the distribution supply chains, and could even affect the very nature of your business. There will be a lot of inertia in the Car Parc’s evolution, so suppliers of cooling and exhaust systems, engine parts, brakes and many other parts will be affected. Some changes will happen over a 10-20 year timeframe, so there is time to adapt to some changes, unless of course we hit some climate change tipping points. However, there is an urgency to change and an opportunity to change much faster in certain areas, especially in how inventory is managed.
Changing how it’s managed You may have heard of a concept called food miles which describes how far food travels between the point where it is grown and the time when it is consumed. In simple terms, the greater the food miles, the further the travel, and the more fuel is used in transport. In a similar way, you can establish the carbon footprint of parts as they arrive from overseas and are transhipped to the ultimate end users. A part that arrives in bulk via sea freight and is then fitted on a vehicle in the same city as its point of importation will have a far smaller footprint, than one that is transhipped to another state and then popped in an air bag for ultimate delivery. Clearly these sorts of differences will be reflected in transport costs, however as measures to manage climate change are implemented the costs for supply methods with higher carbon footprints will inevitably be higher. The changes suggest a review of how you run
your supply chain. There are many variables that you can adjust to ensure you respond in the best possible way. At the strategic level it is important to look at where your DCs are situated. How far does product travel from its point of importation to its ultimate destination? Should you shift your principal DC to another location? Should you import via more DCs? With your major suppliers, perhaps it is time to even ask them these questions. They may have had a Melbourne or Adelaide centric strategy in the past, but is that appropriate for the future? How much might fuel costs change in time, especially for different modes and service levels and how might that affect your optimum network? Is it time for some sensitivity analysis to establish the time when you will really have to change? More tactically however there are several things that should be examined. From a climate response perspective and from simply a common-sense point of view, many of them revolve around reducing the number of emergency stock transfers. Air and express freight costs more, in carbon terms and in dollars and cents. What can be done to reduce emergency stock transfers? One simple way is to just increase the inventory that is regularly stocked in a branch. Unfortunately the effect on working capital of such a strategy means that crudely throwing inventory at the problem is by no means the smart way to do this. Usually you will have to increase the range being carried in stock, but that can mean you need to reduce the stock levels for more popular parts in order to create the financial room to accommodate a greater range of slow movers. Inevitably that drives you to smarter inventory management solutions. A minimum of four and a maximum of six for a popular part, relative to a minimum today of four a maximum of twelve could free up capital and space to hold another half dozen products at a branch. It would mean adopting a different risk posture and streamlining your replenishment processes, but it could substantially reduce your carbon footprint. In essence, you want to shift emergency stock transfers to more regular standard replenishments. If doing this at each branch is too much of a challenge, then perhaps look at the sorts of strategies we described in the last article which described the use of Support Warehouses. At the same time, maybe you need to look at the frequency for standard replenishment times for your branches. Weekly is very different to twice a week or daily. Weekly means consolidation but it also means bigger gaps between regular shipments,
which increases the need for emergency stock transfers. Should you opt for faster or slower transport modes? Where is the sweet spot? It is very easy to model different alternatives. It is also imperative that we use information to keep inventory in the right place at the right time. Telematics and service booking systems for planned maintenance can help give advance warning of when parts might be needed so you can ensure you have what is needed when it is needed. Information used well is a lot cheaper than inventory. You cannot use these sorts of approaches for crash panels because clearly you won’t get advance warning of accidents but maybe Vehicle on Road data can help you position stock where it is most needed. But it is not just systems and processes that might need to change. Behaviours might need to change too. One example to illustrate this point is as follows: take a slow moving part that perhaps sells only a couple of times a year. How often do some of your branch managers, having sold the one part they have in stock, go and emergency order a replacement, rather than wait a few days for the next normal replenishment run? The probability of needing the part before the next normal replenishment arrives could be one in a hundred. So why have certainty of a significant increase in the carbon footprint and in cost, against a one in hundred need? What is the compelling need for a 100 percent service level when 99 percent can be achieved at a much lower cost and carbon footprint? Senior managers may also need to look at the remuneration and incentive schemes that drive such behaviours. People might plead customer service but is it at any cost? Is it perhaps time to look at some of the fundamentals and see what is really important? What would our children say?
For further information consult www.horizoninventory.com.au or email info@horizoninventory.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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PERFORMANCE AND RACING
SUMMERNATS “EPIC” A NEW ERA FOR AUSTRALIAN MOTORSPORT MUSIC LINE-UP The event will feature Airbourne, Bliss N Eso and Kerser The Street Machine Summernats has announced a music line-up including high voltage rockers Airbourne and two of Australia’s greatest hip hop acts, Bliss N Eso and Kerser. Starting the Friday night party right is Western Sydney’s own Kerser. Fresh off the back of his eighth album release in as many years (Lifestyle), the ARIA nominated artist is still killing it years after becoming YouTube’s most viewed Aussie rapper with hits like “Stand Up”, and “No Where to Go”.
Headlining Friday night are Summernats repeat offenders Bliss N Eso, whose Summernats 28 show was one for the record books. Drivers of the sickest green Kombi to ever drop a beat, MC Bliss, MC Eso and DJ Izm will be hyping the Summernats crowd once again and teaching Canberra how not to act its age, with MC Bliss adding that, “Summernats has always been one of our favourite events to play at and connect with our fans. Most people know our love of cars as well, so we are stoked to once again be back on the live stage.” Saturday night is set to be a fist-pumping, hardpartying good time as Aussie rockers Airbourne make their return to Summernats following their massive European tour. The Summernats delivers four days of highoctane extreme auto action including Australia’s top street machine competition, the motorised insanity of the Burnout Masters, horsepower heroics, Australia’s biggest motor retail trade show, the Body Art Nationals, two nights of massive concerts, and so much more. It is all set against a backdrop of burnt rubber, rock and roll, and the roar of the crowd as we search for the Street Machine Summernats Grand Champion. The Street Machine Summernats is proudly supported by Rare Spares. For more information, visit www.summernats.com.au 108
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Introducing Motorsport Australia
The Confederation of Australian Motor Sport (CAMS) has proudly announced it will be known as Motorsport Australia in 2020 and beyond. It says the new name signifies the changing nature of the sport and Motorsport Australia’s role as the government recognised sporting organisation for all four-wheeled motorsport in Australia, in addition to its delegated role as the National Sporting Authority by the Federation Internationale de’l Automobile (FIA). Motorsport Australia’s responsibilities remain entirely the same and there is no change to the organisation’s constitution or structure, aside from the alteration of the organisation’s name. “There are many reasons for this name change and we feel that the sporting, government, participation and commercial benefits are certainly among the key reasons the Board voted to make this historic change,” CAMS President, Andrew Papadopoulos, said. “Motorsport in this country is in a strong position – we’re proud of the recent growth across all areas of our sport, including having a record number of events, officials and active licence holders. “Just because we are seeing that growth doesn’t mean we can rest on our laurels. We need to make sure we are doing what is best for the sport now and into the future. “Anyone who may be looking to get involved in the sport will now know the first port of call will be Motorsport Australia – in line with other sporting bodies – and will not be confused about what our role is. We know from our own experiences, ‘CAMS’ or the ‘Confederation of Australian Motor Sport’ didn’t necessarily express the leading role we play to those unfamiliar with our sport. “While other names were considered, the change to Motorsport Australia is the most obvious fit and brings us in line with what many other sports have already done, including the Australian Government’s own agency, Sport Australia.” Andrew said the organisation’s existing work internationally would also be boosted by the change, with training overseas remaining a key revenue stream for the organisation which is invested back into grassroots motorsport. “Our people are playing a key role in the delivery of the first ever Vietnam Grand Prix in 2020, highlighting the talented group of officials and staff we are so very proud of. With a new name, the strong reputation of Australia in global motorsport will be further enhanced,” Andrew said.
CAMS Chief Executive Officer, Eugene Arocca, said the change had been a long time in the planning and included consultation with many industry stakeholders, including members, licence holders and government. “We sought feedback from many of those already dealing with us on a regular basis and the message was clear – the change made sense but not at the expense of CAMS’ storied history,” Eugene said. “That history dates back many decades to 1953. We can assure everybody in the sport that this history will not be forgotten in everything we do in the future as Motorsport Australia. “What this new name does do is provide us with an opportunity to take motorsport in Australia to another level through better relationships with government and commercial partners across our various Championships, Series and events. “For our members and licence holders, you won’t need to do anything as part of this change. Your licences remain current and will gradually be replaced as they are renewed. Any competitors who would like a replacement sticker for their licence or vehicle can also get in touch via our website.” Eugene said there had been a lot of hard work undertaken by staff and the Board to make this change happen. “This has not been a simple task and I’d like to thank all of our staff who worked very hard behind the scenes to make this change a reality,” Eugene said. “I’d also like to acknowledge the work of a much-loved member of the motorsport family in Ron Klein, who assisted us in the planning for this change. Unfortunately, Ron tragically passed away in recent times, but his work in helping to get Motorsport Australia up and running will certainly be another chapter in what is a very impressive legacy.” The official changeover to Motorsport Australia will come into effect on January 1 2020. As of this date, the website for Motorsport Australia will be www.motorsport.org.au For more information on the upcoming change in the meantime, please visit www.cams.com.au
PERFORMANCE AND RACING
BATHURST DELIVERS FOR DAYCO The company gained major branding coverage across three exciting racing categories at the recent event Dayco, a world leading engine components and drive systems supplier for the automotive, industrial and aftermarket industries, gained major branding exposure across three major motorsport categories at Australia’s most famous motor racing event, the 2019 Supercheap Auto Bathurst 1000. Dayco was onboard for the Bathurst debut of the Monster Energy Tickford Racing Ford Mustang driven by Cameron Waters and Michael Caruso at Australia’s great race. Cameron was fast in practice and qualifying, making the top ten shoot out and starting from the second row of the grid. A superb race performance saw the Dayco sponsored duo in the hunt for a podium finish until the final hour, when an accident abruptly ended any chances of a top result through no fault of their own. After making
significant repairs in the pits, Cameron finished the race in 20th place. Long term Dayco Ambassador David Russell also returned to Supercar racing at the Mountain during the Bathurst 1000 weekend, joining forces with Matt Stone Racing for the Dunlop Super2 Series 250 kilometre Bathurst endurance race held on Saturday October 12. After qualifying a strong 5th despite the low grip weather conditions, David endured significant problems with his VF Commodore during the two hour race, finishing in eighth place. ‘Dayco Dave’ celebrated a decade of main series Bathurst Supercar endurance co-driver racing last season, having competed at the Mountain with Fernandez Racing (one season), Kelly Racing (two seasons), Nissan Motorsport (five seasons) and last season with Tickford Racing. Dayco has proudly been a part of David’s last seven Bathurst campaigns. The third high profile Dayco motorsport marketing platform at the event was the debut of the Dayco Carrera Cup Porsche at Mount Panorama in the hands of Tag Heuer Pro-Am Championship racer Roger Lago. An accident during opening practice had the team working hard for Roger to get back on the track. After qualifying fifth in the Pro-Am
ranks, he finished fourth, third and fourth in the Pro-Am class of each of the races. According to Dayco Asia Pacific Vice President - Aftermarket, Arnold Mouw, the company was delighted to have such a strong presence at this major Australian motor racing event. “While the race results of each of our teams and drivers competing at Bathurst were not what we had hoped for, it was impossible to miss the Dayco brand message at Bathurst this year – that’s for sure!” Arnold said. “We have progressively grown our involvement in Australian and international motorsport each year together with our ambassador, David Russell, and we were delighted to see him back behind the wheel of a Supercar this year at Bathurst. “Together with Roger Lago in his stunning Carrera Cup Porsche and Cameron Waters in his Tickford Racing Mustang, we enjoyed an enviable presence at this renowned Australian and internationally renowned motorsport event.” For more on Dayco, visit www.dayco.com.au
RACING IS BACK ON THE STREETS OF ADELAIDE More than 250 cars will tear up Rundle Road in a flat-out finale to the Adelaide Rally The festivities will commence from 2.30pm and continue until 9.00pm on December 7 in a massive street party that is free for all to attend. After four intense days and nearly 170 competition kilometres, the Adelaide Rally will conclude in style with a full-throttle finale party in the East End, on tarmac made famous as part of the former Adelaide Formula One street circuit. The full field of more that 250 rally cars will complete the Rally with an action-packed Super Special Stage on Rundle Road. The Super Special stage is a 500-metre blast that is tight and technical, demanding acceleration and agility and delivering a spectacle of sights and sounds. Cars from across the decades will strut their stuff before receiving their medallions under the finish arch on East Terrace. Event Director Tim Possingham estimates it will take almost three hours for the field to complete the Super Special Stage. “We’ve got genuine World Rally Championship and Group B cars that really need to be heard
to be believed, the latest exotic supercars, classic competition cars from across decades of motorsport, plus a huge variety of sports cars, muscle cars – all wanting to put on a show to finish the event,” Tim said. Spectators will be able to view the action along the full length of the course. All of the Adelaide Rally vehicles will then be on display, along with a mini-village of new vehicles from Ferrari Adelaide, Lamborghini, McLaren, Bentley and Lotus from Zagame Automotive Group, Mercedes-AMG, BMW, MINI, Škoda and more. Also on display after appearing on the track, Australian F1 champion Alan Jones will drive the spectacular new McLaren 600LT and the Driftsquid, Jake Jones, will give a masterclass in the art of driving sideways. There will be off-track activities for all ages, including the Shannons Super Rig, an offroad remote-control car course, multiple slot car racetracks, racing simulators, and displays
from Horsepower Crew and the Street Machine Association of South Australia, with live music from blues/rock band Ambush and tunes from deejay Driller Jet Armstrong throughout the afternoon and into the evening. NOLA Adelaide will operate a pop-up food and wine zone, plus of course the entire East End restaurant precinct provides plenty of options for all tastes. The entire afternoon of action, excitement, fast cars and fun for the whole family, all in the vibrant East End, is free and supported by the City of Adelaide. For more information, visit www.adelaiderally.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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4WD
FIRST HONDA CR-V BULLBAR LAUNCHED 2019 is Honda’s 50th year in Australia and ECB are joining in the celebrations with the very first bullbar for the popular Honda CR-V East Coast Bullbars has released a range of new frontal protection products for the Honda CR-V, including its Big Tube Bar and 76mm Nudge Bar to suit the All-Wheel Drive VT-iS and VTi-LX (09/2019 and onwards)*. Both are available for order now in a variety of finishes, including ECB’s signature mirror polished finish or customers can choose from one of ECB’s low maintenance powder coat finishes. “The new Honda CR-V is a fully rethought, ground-up change for Honda. Where previously it was not possible to install more than a basic 76mm Nudge Bar, it is a credit to the R&D team to have created a range of product to work with the enhanced safety features of this vehicle,” said Kevin Aland, the Research and Development Coordinator and Project Manager for ECB’s CR-V project. “To complement these features with the functional beauty and weight saving attributes of the alloy product makes for an impressive new frontal look for the CR-V.”
With the Honda CR-V being one of the safest and most technological and feature packed vehicles of 2019; ECB says its Frontal Protection works seamlessly with the tech-pack options including the Active Cruise Control (ACC) and Forward Mitigation Braking System. ECB says the addition of its Frontal Protection will not impede on any of these OEM features and does not affect the vehicle’s five-star ANCAP rating. Further, it says that no ECB product will detract from the vehicle’s safety features and will only enhance the vehicle. “Reinforcing our commitment to Australian Manufacturing, all products are built in our facility North of Brisbane, Queensland, and are available now for order,” ECB Marketing Manager, Benjamin Meddows, said. “The Bullbar is manufactured from a single piece, fully welded, channel in 6mm hi-tensile alloy composite; and tubes made of an industry leading wall thickness allow all of our products to maintain maximum strength whilst adding minimal weight. “As a result, you will gain increased fuel economy
and less wear and tear compared to heavier steel options.” ECB has been a manufacturer of Alloy Nudge Bars and Bullbars since 1971. “Our products are made in Australia to suit Australia’s harshest conditions; provide premium strength, and our hi-tensile alloy is up to 50 percent lighter in weight and will not rust, nor corrode,” Ben said. “Every East Coast Bullbar product is ADR compliant, airbag compatible, and covered by ECB’s exclusive lifetime warranty.” For more information, please visit www.ecb.com.au *Not tested on front wheel drive models. Please contact ECB for further fitments.
ARB RELEASES NEW PRODUCTS Following recent updates and releases to a number of models, ARB has released a range of new products ARB says it is consistently working on expanding the models available in its product range based on newcomers to the market.
Summit Sahara Bar for Ford Everest The Summit Sahara Bar for Ford Everest has been engineered and manufactured to maintain maximum functionality whilst complementing the look of the vehicle. Featuring ARB’s five-fold upswept and tapered wing profile and available with or without the polished centre tube, ARB says owners of this bar are granted a different look from a traditional Summit Bar without sacrificing practicality. Provisions for adding other accessories such as winches, driving lights, CB antennas and fog lights all come on the Summit Sahara Bar and customers can choose from powder-coated or colour-coded finishes.
Commercial Bar for MR Triton Commercial bull bars are a cost-effective alternative to Summit bull bars with a comparable level of vehicle protection, says ARB. By simplifying the manufacturing process, these bars reportedly incorporate the strength but achieve cost savings by going without some of the more aesthetic characteristics. 110
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Summit Side Rail for MR Triton Featuring large steel tubing and moulding to the lines of the vehicle, ARB says its Summit Side Rails are a strong and stylish addition to your vehicle. Connecting the bull bar and side steps, the side rail has a tough nylon cover sleeve to provide an integrated look while adding protection to your quarter panels whilst off road.
Tailgate Assist for MR Triton ARB says its Tailgate Assist for the MR Triton is the perfect solution to struggling to lower and raise a heavy tailgate. Using two struts, they work independently to ease the lowering of the tailgate and reduce the effort required to lift the tailgate; can be installed easily and quickly; and are available now for the MR Triton.
Summit Raw RSTB for MR Triton You can now protect your rear with the stripped back Summit Raw Rear Step Tow Bar for MR Triton GLX and GLX+. Designed with 60.3mm tube finished with a textured black powder coat and engineered to tow 3.1t (as per manufacturer’s specifications), the bar has provisions for all the necessities such as trailer plug wiring, compressor outlet, trailer camera wiring, parking sensors and
a 50-amp Anderson plug. ARB says the Summit Raw RSTB is the perfect addition for dual-cab owners travelling further than just the work site.
Cargo Straps and Tie Downs ARB Cargo Straps now feature rubber moulded handles, reflective printed lashing capacity on the strap and improved hooks to accommodate ARB roof racks. They come complete with a nylon mesh storage bag to keep your straps tidy and, importantly, are fully compliant with AS/ NZS requirements. ARB’s Tie Down System has an anodised, powder-coat black finish to protect from the elements when mounting externally and chamfered ends to protect the vehicle if mounting internally. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au
4WD
PROJECTA’S INTELLI-RV RANGE CONTINUES TO EVOLVE A number of upgrades have been implemented Projecta says its Intelli-RV range of complete power management systems for caravans and recreational vehicles has received some significant changes, ensuring the all-in-one units continue to offer “the best performing solution in the marketplace.” After finding wide interest and success with caravan builders when initially launched, Projecta says that ongoing customer feedback and response to competitor offerings has resulted in a number of upgrades being implemented across the Intelli-RV range. Maximum charging current has been increased from 20A to 30A for PM200, PM300 and PM400 units. This means that even the entry level PM200 will now charge a 300Ah lead acid or lithium battery in around 10 hours. The 100A VSR has also been updated to ensure compatibility with lithium batteries and DC to DC charging systems, allowing a wider range of application across different vehicle setups. Models that utilise an LCD screen (PM300 and PM400) now benefit from optional password
protection, whilst error codes have been optimised for ease of use and installation. “The Projecta Intelli-RV product is designed to be a complete vehicle power management solution, offering installers significantly reduced electrical footprint and installation time with neater, direct wiring to a single location,” Projecta RV Category Manager, Sheridan Lee, said. “The all-in-one units encompass multiple charging functions, including 30A mains charging with 35A power supply, 100A VSR, 30A solar charging (excluding PM100), plus advanced battery protection, saving the need to purchase and install separate devices and with the availability of 10-14 fused outputs across the range, installers are well-covered for wiring up multiple 12V appliances.” A major benefit for the end user is the remote monitoring of key information, such as water tank levels, battery capacity/load/charging and solar from the LED (PM200) and LCD (PM300 and PM400) screens, which also allow remote switching of water pump and load.
Those in need of even more control will benefit from the PM400’s additional programmable switch panel and twin bedroom light switches, plus Bluetooth access via smartphone/tablet app for truly remote control of lighting and power, inside or outside the vehicle. Projecta explains its Intelli-RV range is available for purchase from leading caravan, battery and DC power specialists. For more information, visit www.projecta.com.au or contact sales@projecta.com.au
KEEP YOUR NOCO JUMP STARTER SAFE GBC017 EVA Protective Case for Boost XL This lightweight, durable, and rugged GBC017 EVA Protective Case has a semi-rigid custom exterior with zipper closures and a reinforced handle. The rubberised EVA exterior offers protection from moisture, impact, dust and other environmental factors, while the moulded interior perfectly fits, stores and protects its corresponding NOCO Boost UltraSafe Jump Starter. Made of thermoformed EVA, the GBC017’s lightweight and durable moulded exterior has a water resistant, rubber-like finish. It includes heavy-duty reverse coil zippers with a built-in reinforced handle and custom over-moulded pull tab. The moulded tray interior has a soft black melange velvet lining for a secure fit. The reinforced semi-rigid pockets securely hold clamps, extensions or other accessories. For more information, visit https://no.co Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2019
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INDUSTRY AWARENESS
POOR PROMOS = POOR INDUSTRY The value of our trade is determined by the sum of the marketing our customers are exposed to, says Craig Baills of Highfields Mechanical That’s right! Whilst we have dealerships, franchises, online platforms, corporate entities and individual businesses promoting to customers that they can do or supply the cheapest logbook service in town, our value as a professional industry will never increase. Every time a consumer sees a billboard for a Logbook service for $99, an air conditioning regas for $85 or cheap as chips pink slips, then that price, subliminally, becomes the benchmark for their perception on pricing in our industry, or, it raises doubts over the quality of service or questions about whether they got ripped off at their last service that was more expensive than this cheap price. I have had discussions over the past two months with workshop owners who have lost work because they were priced out of the game by some lowball business underselling the same job, underselling the industry, and quite likely, underselling themselves. Now I’m not talking a 10 percent difference, I’m talking 50 percent plus! Value your time, value your business, value your staff, value your ability and most of all, value your customer. Stop working for a turnover and work for a profit and the benefit and sustainability of the trade. Christmas only comes once a year, so the sooner those in the industry who promote cheap pricing realise this and stop being Santa Claus, the better. It is ok to charge out your experience and expertise, so stop underselling it.
Add some vitality to your business and stop getting hooked up in the day to day functionality of trying to make ends meet. Don’t leave money on the table just to try and get jobs in the door. If you’re in it for the long haul, pay close attention to how you are marketing your business. Your business will benefit from correct pricing strategies, and your back pocket will as well. It is time, we, as an industry, collectively committed to the future – the next 10 years and beyond. It is time to pull together, value add to your customers, stop under-pricing and giving consumers the perception that we are cheap. Afterall, we are not the knuckle dragging, greasy overall wearing image of the past. We are highly skilled, trained and educated professionals that are exposed to more advancement in technology and vehicle development than we have ever been exposed to before. We are without a doubt the most highly skilled trade out there. In my personal opinion, it is time that those that have an influence on price perception to our customers wake up to themselves and value our skill set. So, if you’re in charge of marketing for franchises, dealerships, corporate workshops, third party booking sites or even for the small independent workshop, I can tell you that those who are trying to build their shops and the value of the industry don’t appreciate you undervaluing it – it is time to change and change now!
Craig Baills, Highfields Mechanical
There are many of us out there in this industry that go on with our business, quietly achieving, serving our customers and realising the value of what we do. We are always striving to achieve better outcomes for the business and the consumer, to increase the benefits to our staff and our bottom line, to develop our training, present a professional workshop and keep up to date. But “loss leader” advertising for a $99 service is a “loss leader” for the industry, not just for those trying to get work through the door. In these cases the “point of difference” based on cheap pricing is an industry “point of destruction” and I call on you to find a different strategy which will have long term benefits for your business and for the industry. Any strategy we can develop which values our trade and presents this value to the consumer will have long term benefits for the trade. Better pricing and better hourly rates mean better wages for techs, increased training and development and will eventually help lessen the skills shortage. Anyone in business will know it takes a lot of hard work; blood, sweat and tears; dedication and heart to be successful. Our automotive businesses and industry are no exception to this. We are not a commodity that can be sold to the lowest bidder. Our professionalism, education and skill set is not something that can be purchased online, the vehicles we are working on can no longer be cheaply serviced and the customers we are working with have much higher expectations. As such, we must move forward into the future with this in mind: promote to your consumers, but don’t undersell our industry. Here’s to the future, Craig Baills, Highfields Mechanical Member of Automotive Repairer Council of Australia (ARCA) Committee
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