Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - November 2020

NOVEMBER 2020

REACHING OUT TO THE NEXT GENERATION

AUSSIE BATTERY MANUFACTURER CHARGES AHEAD WITH MAJOR EXPANSION

THE EVOLUTION OF VEHICLE SAFETY FEATURES

ABOUT THE COVER Penrite: Aussie owned, Aussie operated The Penrite story commenced more than 90 years ago in Melbourne

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar................................................ 4 New Members........................................ 4 AAAA Report ......................................... 5 News..................................................... 6 Products.............................................. 26

Milestones........................................... 86 Consumer Law...................................... 88 HR Matters.......................................... 89 PRTC.................................................. 90 Inside Business.................................... 92

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KEEPING YOU INFORMED 10 years of lobbying pays off for the AAAA.................................................................... 6 Industry Leaders Forum a huge success........................................................................ 7 Overcoming the FCA firewall........................................................................................ 8 US state votes overwhelmingly for Right to Repair.......................................................... 9 The evolution of vehicle safety features....................................................................... 10 New initiative to reduce pedestrian injury.................................................................... 11 Aussie battery manufacturer charges ahead with major expansion.................................. 13 Aftermarket companies recognised by AFR.................................................................. 16

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FEATURES Cover Feature - Penrite: Aussie owned, Aussie operated................................................. 18 Technofile - Solving BMW climate control issues.......................................................... 20 R&D - Bosch - Groundbreaking passenger protection..................................................... 22 Member Feature - Parts4 - All part of a bigger picture.................................................... 50 Oils and Lubes: All the latest on oils and lubes............................................................. 52 Engine Management & Cooling - Looking after your customers’ engine needs.................... 68 In the workshop - Reaching out to the next generation................................................... 82 Trade Talk - Andrew Cornwell, Corghi Australia............................................................. 84

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Publisher Cameron McLachlan for The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association ABN 23 002 271 454

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7 – 8 Bastow Place, Mulgrave VIC 3170, Australia Phone: 03 9545 3333 Fax: 03 9545 3355 Email: info@aaaa.com.au Website: www.aaaa.com.au

EDITOR Allan Edwards

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DESIGN & LAYOUT Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121

Official publication of the AAAA

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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

NEW MEMBERS

CALENDAR 2020-2021 Automechanika Shanghai National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 2 – 5 December 2020 www.automechanika-shanghai.hk.messefrankfurt.com

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia 18 – 20 March 2021

Automech Shed 2, 6 Cooper Street WARRNAMBOOL VIC 3280 Ph: 03 4505 2555 E: ben@auto-mech.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Corowa (Federation Tyre Centre) 387 Honour Avenue COROWA NSW 2646 Ph: 02 6033 4288 E: ftc3@bigpond.com

B+D Entities Pty Ltd Factory 3, 17 Harrison Court MELTON VIC 3337 Ph: 03 9746 8699 E: james@4x4obsession.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Dandenong (Duca Automotive) 15a Bennet Street DANDENONG VIC 3175 Ph: 03 9792 2417 E: ducatechnocar@bigpond.com

Eurocare Rear of 69 Burswood Road BURSWOOD WA 6100 Ph: 08 9355 2712 E: eurocare@iinet.net.au

Repco Authorised Service Dandenong South (Forza Tyres and Auto Service) 314 South Gippsland Highway DANDENONG SOUTH VIC 3175 Ph: 0416 664 755 E: info@forzatas.com.au

MNF 4x4 5 Central Drive BURLEIGH HEADS QLD 4220 Ph: 07 5522 1304 E: mark@mnf4x4.com.au

www.automechanika-kualalumpur.hk.messefrankfurt.com

Automechanika Dubai Dubai World Trade Centre

Repco Authorised Service Daw Park (Daw Park Autocare) 630 Goodwood Road DAW PARK SA 5041 Ph: 08 8276 1669 E: bookings@dawparkautocare.com.au

Mobile Auto Diagnostics 113 Pioneer Drive CARNES HILL NSW 2171 Ph: 0403 147 717 E: info@autodiag.com.au

7 – 9 June 2021 www.automechanika-dubai.ae.messefrankfurt.com

Repco Authorised Service Keysborough (Sri Luck Autos) 30 Cambria Road KEYSBOROUGH VIC 3173 Ph: 03 9769 1617 E: sriluckauto@mail.com

Moores Auto Electrical and Mechanical Pty Ltd 15 Ryan Avenue SINGLETON NSW 2330 Ph: 02 6572 4273 E: admin@mooresauto.com.au

Automechanika Frankfurt Frankfurt am Main 14 – 18 September 2021 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Repco Authorised Service Kingswood (Mitcham Auto Tune & Service) 51 Princes Road KINGSWOOD SA 5062 Ph: 08 8272 5167 E: libertymitcham@hotmail.com

PCOR 4x4 1 Activity Crescent MOLENDINAR QLD 4214 Ph: 07 5597 0638 E: jack.beet@patriotcampers.com.au

Performance Racing Industry Trade Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana

Repco Authorised Service Mataranka (Roper River Transport) 115 Roper Terrace MATARANKA NT 852 Ph: 08 8975 4583 E: roperrivertransport@bigpond.com

Rapid Tune Hastings 2049 Frankston-Flinders Road HASTINGS VIC 3915 Ph: 03 5979 8562 E: hastings@rapidtune.com.au

2021 (TBA) www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow

Australian Auto Aftermarket Expo

Repco Authorised Service Port Hedland (IronPort Mechanical) 3 Altitude Avenue PORT HEDLAND WA 6721 Ph: 0410 986 156 E: admin@ironportmech.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Coober Pedy (Coober Pedy Car & Mechanical Service) Lot 36 Hutchinson Street COOBER PEDY SA 5723 Ph: 08 8672 3322 E: patrick@tyrescooberpedy.com.au

Melbourne Exhibition Centre 7 – 9 April 2022 www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au

Repco Authorised Service Whyalla Norrie (Delmac Car Service) 19 Story Street WHYALLA NORRIE SA 5608 Ph: 08 8644 2660 E: admin@delmacdm.com.au

AAAA BOARD OF DIRECTORS CHAIRMAN Mark Pedder (VIC) Pedders Suspension Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9706 3500

DEPUTY CHAIRMAN Wayne Bryant (VIC), Repco Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9566 5444

SECRETARY Janelle Gonzalez (NSW), Blue Toro Pty Ltd Ph: 1300 258 386

TREASURER Don Cormack (SA) ADRAD Pty Ltd Ph: 08 8243 9888

DIRECTORS Craig Baills (QLD), Highfields Mechanical Ph: 07 4696 7116

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

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John Benson (VIC), Davies, Craig Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9369 1234

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

Sean Buckley (VIC), Ultra Tune Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9815 9200 Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555 Adam Pay (NSW), mycar Tyre & Auto Service Ph: 02 9680 6500

Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 061 729 Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd Ph: 07 3892 9000

Mark Pedder Chairman

AAAA NEWS

MANDATORY DATA SHARING JUST AROUND THE CORNER

As we launch the final Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine for 2020, it is great that we can wrap up with some positive news on a number of fronts after what has been a tough year Melbourne has now successfully fought back against COVID-19 and joined the rest of Australia in eased restrictions, which is both professionally and personally welcome. We hope Melbourne can now enjoy the strong rebound in business levels that the other states and territories have experienced.

I am confident that with the continued restrictions on international travel, Australians will turn to their vehicles for regional and interstate holidays over the summer months. They will in turn look to our industry for vehicle service, repair and modifications so they can explore our great land in safety and comfort.

With large scale industry events and exhibitions still off the radar in Australia, we were successful in bringing the industry together digitally for the recent AAAA Automotive Industry Leaders Forum.

We were very proud to host the most important, and what became arguably the largest industry event for 2020 – attracting more than 900 registrations and signalling the appetite our industry has for important news and updates.

The forum proved to be a momentous day for our industry because it included the outstanding news that mandatory data sharing draft legislation will be released for consultation over the next few weeks.

The highly anticipated announcement was delivered by our keynote speaker, Federal Assistant Treasurer the Honourable Michael Sukkar MP, and was celebrated by everyone participating in the Forum. Although the law is not in place yet, the Minister’s statement made it abundantly clear: the law is coming, and soon.

The AAAA has worked tirelessly in close step with our supportive members to champion this major issue for our broader industry and I could not be more proud of the determination and commitment of so many people over so many years. While there is still work to be done to ensure we have an effective scheme, it is important we celebrate and acknowledge these important milestones along the way.

So where do we go from here? Once the draft legislation is released, a short consultation period will follow before the legislation is introduced to Parliament.

This mandatory data sharing scheme has a wide number of stakeholders involved, from the car

companies, to dealerships, independent service and repair providers, car owners and their representative associations.

To represent these interests, an independent body will be formed to assist with education, awareness, and dispute resolution to support the operationalisation of the new Law. The AAAA will be represented on the Board of this group and confirming the Government’s commitment to the process, Minister Sukkar also announced a $250,000 grant to support the establishment of this body.

We are sure you are as excited as we are to hear this news and we look forward to providing further updates on mandatory data sharing shortly while continuing to champion this critical issue for our industry.

few hours for everyone. As great as it was, we certainly hope we can see everyone in person at events in 2021.

Although 2020 has been a year to forget in many ways, as I look back I am filled with pride at the countless examples of how our industry has soldiered on, remained positive, supported each other and worked through the tough times.

Following on from these announcements, the forum also provided additional value and knowledge for the hundreds who tuned in across the country.

I am also incredibly proud of the team at the AAAA, for their tireless work despite the disruptions and challenges. They have just got on with it and made sure we continue to provide the support our members and the broader industry has needed.

Another keynote speaker was David Fraser, the Group Chief Executive Officer of the Capricorn Society.

The AAAA Board have also been instrumental in providing leadership and guidance throughout 2020, which has been invaluable.

David presented the Capricorn ‘State of the Nation’ findings. This significant survey providing fascinating insights into the automotive service and repair sector and David also offered tips and directions to build efficiency and profitability in your business. I want to thank David and Capricorn for their support.

Our members continue to drive us forward and we have seen near record levels of membership renewals and new memberships, off the back of the support, services and resources we have provided members throughout 2020.

AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, then took attendees on a tour of the right to repair movement around the world. This was a great complementary presentation to the Minister’s announcement and provided further context and examples of what the mandatory data sharing scheme may end up looking like in Australia.

AAAA forums have traditionally allowed industry participation through Q&A sessions, and the Automotive Industry Leaders Forum was no different. The Panel, which included AAAA Chairman Mark Pedder as well as Lesley and David, enjoyed being able to interact directly with participants and answer some relevant and broad ranging questions.

The Automotive Industry Leaders Forum was a great success and judging by the attendee feedback, it was a valuable and insightful

We hope you enjoy this issue of our industryleading magazine, which as always is filled with interesting news, business advice, new products and services from our broad and passionate industry. Looking through the issue has only reinforced why I am so proud to be part of this great industry.

On behalf of the entire AAAA team, I wish you all the best as we head into Christmas and the New Year. I think it is fair to say we have all earned a break – roll on 2021!

MARK PEDDER Chairman

STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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NEWS

SEASON’S GREETINGS Capricorn will be continuing to work hard for its Members and Preferred Suppliers as 2020 comes to a close Merry Christmas and a very Happy New Year – prior to 2020 these well intended words may have sounded a little clichéd; but after a year of uncertainty and disruption I expect this year’s festive season will take on a special meaning for us all, as we celebrate and spend time with our loved ones.

It was with shared relief that we saw our Members, Preferred Suppliers, Field team and other repairers in Melbourne and across Victoria get on top of the second wave of COVID-19 to now enjoy some more relaxed lockdown measures.

I have no doubt that our Victorian community will demonstrate the same strength as our New Zealand colleagues, who we have seen benefit from a remarkable resurgence after enduring a similar style of lockdown, earlier in the year.

Of course, just because 2020 is ending, that does not mean we can be any less vigilant in protecting our personal and business health.

To assist both Members and non-members to do this, we have a number of resources available via the new CapHub website that can be found at www.capricorn.coop/caphub New content includes access to an upcoming webinar on ‘Resilience’ with Psychologist Dr Marny Lishman that everyone in the automotive repair community is invited to attend.

Even before the pandemic hit, Capricorn’s State of the Nation Report 2020 discovered that 46 percent of workshop owners had difficulty maintaining a good work-life balance or finding time to take a holiday.

This webinar explores these findings in more detail to provide practical advice on how to reduce stress and maintain personal and professional wellbeing.

Other upcoming webinars also available through CapHub includes topics such as ‘Eight places technology is costing you productivity and profits,’ ‘How to charge what you’re worth without scaring your customers’ and ‘How to take a break, make a profit, and stay sane.’

You can register for these live events via www.capricorn.coop/caphub Recordings of past webinars are also available through the CapHub website.

Sincerely once more, I do wish you and your families a joyous holiday period. Stay safe, stay strong, and I look forward to ensuring Capricorn continues to work hard for our Members and Preferred Suppliers to deliver even more success in 2021.

Yours cooperatively, David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop 6

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

10 YEARS OF LOBBYING PAYS OFF FOR THE AAAA Minister says Mandatory Data Sharing Law not far away The automotive aftermarket sector is celebrating with the Federal Assistant Treasurer Michael Sukkar recently announcing that the draft legislation which will require car companies to share all motor vehicle service and repair information is only weeks away.

Speaking at the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) Industry Leaders Forum, Mr Sukkar also said there would not be a lengthy consultation period before it goes before Parliament as the issue has been subject to considerable and lengthy consultation for almost a decade.

AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said the Minister’s comments were a game changer for the 30,000 independent repairers and the 150,000 technicians in Australia looking to service vehicles.

“It has been a long 10-year battle involving literally hundreds of meetings with politicians from all sides, as well as two major inquiries and an 18-month ACCC investigation with two rounds of extensive stakeholder consultation,” Stuart said.

“This is a landmark decision. It means consumers will not be forced to get their car serviced at a car company dealership.

“We are incredibly grateful to the Minister for getting this done. He just got it right from the beginning.”

The new law is designed to provide a fairer playing field for the repair and service of the 74 automotive brands available in Australia in an industry worth $25 billion annually. The law will compel car manufacturers to share all mechanical repair and service information with the independent auto repair sector on “fair and reasonable commercial terms”.

“No car owner should be forced to take the car back to a dealer because the car manufacturers have artificially manipulated the market by withholding software updates and reinitialisation codes,” Stuart said.

Many other countries have been watching with considerable interest to see what happened in Australia.

“It’s great that we are leading the way in the Asia Pacific region,” Stuart said.

Stuart earlier told the online audience of the forum that the ACCC is continuing to investigate Mitsubishi’s 10-year warranty – elements of which the AAAA believes are anti-competitive.

AAAM has since learned that the ACCC had asked Mitsubishi to respond to its concerns and submissions from industry raising alarms about the warranty by November 6.

There is currently no word whether the car manufacturer has responded or what the contents of any response may be, but the ACCC indicated that the matter would be dealt with by the end of November.

Mr Sukkar also used the AAAA event to announce funding of $250,000 to assist the new industry body that would support the operationalisation of the Law. The organisation will be Industry-led and will support the law with dispute resolution, information and education.

The organisation will have representation from the AAAA, the Motor Trades Association of Australia, the Australian Automotive Dealer Association, the Australian Automobile Association and the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

For more from the AAAA, visit www.aaaa.com.au

NEWS

COVETED AAAA BOARD POSITIONS BROADEN INDUSTRY LEADERSHIP The Association was overwhelmed recently by the high level of interest in its Board elections A total of eight nominations were received from an outstanding field of candidates for three positions on the AAAA Board.

At the 40th Annual General Meeting of the AAAA on Monday the 19th of October, the AAAA announced and congratulated the three current members of the Board that were re-elected: • Wayne Bryant – Executive General Manager, Repco Australia • Janelle Gonzalez – CEO, Blue Toro • Adam Pay – Managing Director, mycar Tyre & Auto Service “Wayne, Janelle and Adam have already contributed fantastic value to the AAAA during their time on the Board,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said.

“We are delighted that they will have the opportunity to continue their commitment to serving AAAA members and our shared purpose over the next three years.”

The Board also made the decision to co-opt Supercheap Auto General Manager Merchandise, Steve Lewis, as its 12th Director.

Craig Baills

John Benson

Sean Buckley

Craig Magill

“Supercheap Auto is a major employer in the aftermarket industry and Steve brings a retailer perspective to the Board that will complement our GPC and Bapcor representatives,” Stuart said.

“Steve has also served as a Board Member of the Plumbing Merchants Association which will add valuable external experience and a fresh perspective to AAAA Board deliberations.”

The AAAA looks forward to working together to progress member interests and the prosperity of the Australian automotive aftermarket, through its Board and the broader aftermarket community.

“I believe this result was a strong vote of confidence from the membership in the current Board and the direction of the Association,” Stuart said at the AGM. “It is fantastic to have such a talented group of passionate industry people leading us at this crucial time in the evolution of the industry and our Association and I look forward to working with you all.

“Our Association is very fortunate to enjoy

Adam Pay

Darren Robinson

Graham Scudamore-Smith

Steve Lewis

Mark Pedder Chairman

Wayne Bryant Deputy Chairman

Janelle Gonzalez Secretary

Don Cormack Treasurer

outstanding leadership from our Board and I would like to take this opportunity to thank Mark Pedder (Chairman) and the entire Board for their invaluable contribution and their unwavering support of myself and the National Office team.

“Our industry is fortunate to have such talented people prepared to voluntarily provide their time, expertise and insights to assist in the growth and development of the overall industry.”

Although unsuccessful in this instance, the AAAA would like to sincerely thank Ryan Davis, Nigel Oborne, Steve Santamaria and Kate Tomas for their nominations. The AAAA acknowledges the time and effort that went into preparing their nominations and is very pleased to have such highly respected leaders as part of the AAAA community.

For the full list of Board Members and positions, please visit www.aaaa.com.au/about/board-of-directors

INDUSTRY LEADERS FORUM A HUGE SUCCESS On Friday the 30th of October, the AAAA hosted the Automotive Industry Leaders Forum With over 900 online registrants, the AAAA says this was the largest and most important automotive industry event of 2020.

The Forum proved to be a momentous event for the automotive repair and service industry, with Federal Assistant Treasurer, The Honourable Michael Sukkar MP, announcing the mandatory data sharing draft legislation will be released for consultation in a matter of weeks.

Minister Sukkar also announced a $250,000 grant towards a new industry body that will assist with education, awareness, and dispute resolutions for the new law, and the AAAA will be a founding key signatory.

Following on from the Minister’s announcements, Group Chief Executive Officer for the Capricorn Society, David Fraser, presented Capricorn’s ‘State of the Nation’ findings, with this significant survey providing fascinating insights into the automotive service and repair sector.

AAAA Director of Advocacy and Government Relations, Lesley Yates, then took attendees on a tour around the world of the right to repair movement and automotive repair and service information access and provided a look at how mandatory data sharing law may end up looking in Australia based on learnings from the experiences of international partners in the Right to Repair movement.

The industry also participated in the forum, via an informative Q&A session with the esteemed panel which also included AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, and Pedders Suspension Managing Director and AAAA Chairman, Mark Pedder.

A replay of the Forum is available to watch on-demand at www.aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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NEWS

OVERCOMING THE AUTOBARN ROLLS OUT NEW STORE FCA FIREWALL FIT OUTS Register now to ensure your access In 2018, Fiat Chrysler Automobiles (FCA) installed a firewall in their vehicles, known as the Secure Gateway (SGW). FCA covers Alfa Romeo, Fiat, Chrysler, Jeep, Dodge and RAM branded vehicles.

Other manufacturers will soon be following suit, as an EU standard valid from 2020 now obliges manufacturers to protect their electronic systems from unauthorised access and tampering.

FCA’s SGW module prevents non-FCA authorised scan tools from communicating with vehicle systems, other than to read fault codes. To ensure your scan tool can navigate around this Firewall, your tool needs to be registered with FCA. FCA says it has setup a “bridge server” and user management system called AutoAuth that mimics the user and tool authentication process that FCA certified dealerships use with the FCA scan tool.

This solution allows the aftermarket scan tools with WiFi to unlock the SGW and perform all the necessary repair procedures.

FCA says all aftermarket scan tool companies that currently have an active scan tool license agreement with FCA have been contacted so they can be provided with this capability.

It explains that once the SGW is unlocked through the authentication process, the aftermarket scan tool has the same capabilities as they did on non SGW equipped FCA vehicles. The registration is done one time and there is a yearly subscription required. The number of vehicles you can service is unlimited.

To ensure access for your individual scan tool, contact your scan tool provider and ask them for the procedure for their scan tool to allow access to FCA vehicles with the SGW. Automotive Repairers Council of Australia Convener, Mike Smith, reports that Bosch has already built a token into its annual subscription and Snap-on also has new software to link to a subscription site.

For more information or assistance, email Mike Smith on msmith@aaaa.com.au 8

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

A better customer experience is reportedly just one of the benefits promised by an improved store design Auto parts and accessories chain Autobarn says it has engaged world-leading retail design firm, McCartney Design, to roll out a new store concept which will become the standard for all new Autobarn store designs.

The first store to undergo the transition was its company-owned store at Bayswater in Victoria, which was unveiled on the 1st of August, 2020. Stores at Coburg (also in Victoria) and at Belmont in Western Australia have since had their updates completed. The next stores in the pipeline for a makeover are located at DFO Moorabbin (Victoria), Bankstown (New South Wales), Delacombe (Victoria), Midland (WA) and Townsville (Queensland).

The company says it required a store format that allowed it to better represent its extensive ranges of automotive accessories and parts while allowing customers to benefit from an overall better experience. The new design includes navigational signage; new displays that better showcase its range; and improved flooring and lighting standards. Also featured are new fixtures which better allow the display of big and bulky items at eye level while also giving the customer better access to the products.

Bapcor Retail Executive General Manager, Tim Cockayne, said Autobarn customers have responded extremely positively to the new design with sales reflecting this at its Coburg and Bayswater stores post lockdown.

“Our customers are excited about the changes and are continually commenting on how bright the store is and how easy it is to shop,” Tim said.

“Many locals are commenting that they cannot

believe it is the same shop. They say the shop looks bigger and appears to have an increased range – which it does. This store design represents how Autobarn stores will be rolled out going forward and we couldn’t be happier with it.

“We are excited for the future based on a number of things, including the strong visual presence the store now provides from the exterior; the way the merchandise is better presented to customers in store; and the extremely positive manner in which customers have responded thus far.

“We have been very conscious of the changing world we live in and the availability to purchase products without leaving home. We needed to provide an exciting and engaging experience instore to entice our customers to choose to visit our stores and which would stand the test of time over the next ten years.

“The result we have achieved through collaboration with Garry McCartney (of McCartney Design) and his team is fantastic and we are seeing an improvement in all aspects of the customer journey within the store.”

Autobarn Bayswater helps teen In October, 17-year-old student Levi Charles woke up to find the first car and restoration project he was working on with his two grandfathers had been stolen.

After a public appeal, the vehicle was found abandoned but relatively unscathed, but with the radio and speakers missing.

After hearing of Levi’s predicament, Autobarn decided to give the story a happy ending with the support of suppliers Kicker, Pioneer and Gator; fitting out Levi’s Corolla at Autobarn Bayswater in November with new Kicker speakers, subwoofer, amp and a Pioneer head unit, as well as a Gator dash cam, immobiliser and GPS tracker.

For more information, visit www.autobarn.com.au

NEWS

US STATE VOTES OVERWHELMINGLY FOR RIGHT TO REPAIR Independent Automotive Repairers in Massachusetts could be the biggest winner of US 2020 elections Residents of the US state of Massachusetts have overwhelmingly voted in favour of a Right to Repair question on the ballot paper during the recent 2020 US elections.

In a boost for the state’s independent automotive repairers, 75 percent of votes selected yes to “Question 1.”

This means that once a person buys a vehicle, they own all of its data.

According to www.techcrunch.com, “The measure, listed on the ballot as Question 1, amends and broadens a law that gives consumers in Massachusetts the right to repair the vehicles they own.

“The measure will require automakers that sell vehicles with telematics systems in Massachusetts to equip them with a standardised open data platform beginning with model year 2022.

“This standardised open data platform has to give vehicle owners and independent repair facilities direct access and the ability to retrieve mechanical data and run diagnostics through a mobile-based application.

“Importantly, this measure covers the data that telematics systems collect and wirelessly transmit.

And it not only gives access to the mechanical

data, it allows owners and independent mechanics to send commands to the vehicle for repair, maintenance and diagnostic testing.”

Director of the Massachusetts Right to Repair Coalition, Tommy Hickey, was ecstatic with the vote result.

“Thank you. We did it! Actually, you did it!” he commented to his supporters.

“It was only because of you, our Massachusetts supporters and grassroots team, that we were able to have such a resounding victory.

“Thank you for protecting consumer choice in car repair and for supporting your local independent shops…1,600 independent repair shops in Massachusetts, 40,000 employees, and millions of consumers thank you for your help and support.”

But he warned that the fight does not stop here, with much more work yet to be done.

“Our coalition will drive on to make sure the law is implemented immediately in Massachusetts and to expand consumer rights in car repair to the 49 other states,” Tommy said.

AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, said the Massachusetts vote is a shot in the arm for the automotive sector

and was a part of a shift around the globe towards fair play in the industry, protecting consumer rights and independent repairers against the might of the automotive manufacturers.

She said the vote was important to the AAAA given the Australian industry’s recent victory with the announcement by the Morrison Government about its impending legislation for a mandatory code for vehicle data sharing (see separate articles in this magazine.)

“This vote comes at an incredibly important moment in our journey,” Lesley said.

“As we wait for the draft exposure, we are clearly hoping to see that our Law will incorporate the best elements of international law and right now, the best in class is now the Massachusetts Right to Repair 2020 outcome.”

For more information, visit www.massrighttorepair.org

CAPRICORN PRESENTS ‘STATE OF THE NATION’ Capricorn’s David Fraser was amongst the esteemed speakers for the AAAA’s Industry Leaders Forum In his presentation, the Group Chief Executive Officer for the Capricorn Society, David Fraser, spoke about the findings of Capricorn’s inaugural State of the Nation research project and the subsequent 46-page report, which is now available to download free of charge for all at www.capricorn.coop/caphub State of the Nation is the most substantial piece of research Capricorn has conducted in its 40 plus year history, informed by responses from more than 1,500 Capricorn members across Australia and New Zealand.

The report drills down on a number of core questions for the industry, including respondents’ motivations, fears, challenges and successes.

After reviewing the common challenges and threats, the report goes on to provide recommendations and information around five key subject areas: Work-Life Balance, Succession Planning, Knowing Your Value, Passive Marketing and Attracting the Next Generation.

“We covered a lot of insights and information in the session, but if I had to give some key recommendations, they would be as follows,” David said.

“Don’t be afraid to charge more. Lower margins are a concern but there are some easy wins for your bottom line. Charge for diagnostics, increase hourly labour rates and estimate your service times accurately.

“Let’s work together on pay rates. Attracting the next generation of technicians, and keeping our best staff long-term, is going to require making the industry more lucrative for the people who work in it.

“Cover yourself when it comes to customersupplied parts. If you’re willing to fit them, charge extra for labour. Ask the customer to agree that if the part is faulty, they’ll pay for your labour to remove and replace it.

“Invest in scan tools and other tech. Don’t fall

behind your competitors or risk turning away business because you don’t have the tools you need. Buy scan tools and recoup the costs by charging customers for diagnostic tests.

“And finally, consider changing or enhancing your marketing strategy. Don’t just rely on word of mouth and referrals to bring in new customers; do some targeted marketing. Asking customers for Google Reviews is particularly useful.”

To read the report in full, visit www.www.capricorn.coop/caphub To listen to David’s presentation at the Industry Leaders Forum, visit the AAAA’s YouTube channel.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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NEWS

THE EVOLUTION OF VEHICLE SAFETY FEATURES In this article, ACA Research takes a look at the key safety features shaping our vehicles today, others we expect to see landing in more vehicles over the next few years, and the impact these will have on the automotive aftermarket.

Consumers and businesses want cars that are fuel-efficient, comfortable and, most importantly, safe.

Looking back at the evolution of road safety, a lot has changed in a relatively short period of time.

From the early horse-drawn carriages to today’s cars with seatbelts, airbags, sensors, cameras, and an increasing range of autonomous features, technology in the auto industry seems to be advancing at an impressive rate.

As these technologies mature, we are also seeing more and more safety features moving from the premium end of the market into our everyday vehicles.

It is easy to forget that as recently as 1971, seatbelts were optional, and that cars produced in the late 1990s most likely only had a single driver airbag.

Fast forward to today, and a key technology improving road safety is the suite of tools that sit under the blanket term of Advanced Driver Assistance Systems (ADAS).

ADAS helps drivers achieve a safer (and better) driving experience through features such as blindspot monitoring, lane keep assist, autonomous emergency braking, traffic sign recognition and night vision (to name but a few).

ADAS helps drivers avoid potential incidents by delivering alerts that ensure they take timely control of the vehicle, or even slowing or steering the vehicle on their behalf.

While we will see more and more ADAS features turning up in privately-owned vehicles, they are also increasingly important to businesses, which operate 3.8 million vehicles on Australian roads.

The newly published ACA Research Fleet Insights

report found that almost one in three business fleets already own vehicles with ADAS features.

Looking ahead, this is predicted to rise to almost 50 percent over the next 12 months, with almost eight in 10 viewing it as an important factor when selecting a new vehicle.

While many of these vehicles will initially be serviced in dealerships, we know that aftermarket workshops have a significant fleet customer base (and also frequently service consumers with newer vehicles), meaning it will be increasingly important to understand how to manage the diagnostic evaluation, maintenance and calibration of the diverse ADAS systems we see coming into the car parc.

3.8 MILLION

BUSINESS FLEET VEHICLES IN AUSTRALIA

1 IN 3 ALREADY OWN VEHICLES WITH ADAS FEATURE THIS IS PREDICTED TO RISE TO ALMOST 50% OVER THE NEXT 12 MONTHS ALMOST 8 IN 10 BUSINESS FLEETS VIEW ADAS AS AN IMPORTANT FACTOR WHEN SELECTING A NEW VEHICLE Figure One: Key Stats from ACA Research’s Fleet Insights

Focusing more specifically on fleets, another key safety measure being implemented in today’s new vehicles (and fitted as an aftermarket addition in fleets more broadly) is dash cams.

Looking again at the Fleets Insights research, one in four fleets use forward facing dash cams, and almost one in five are using internal dash cams that can monitor drivers for ‘risky’ behaviours (for example, phone usage or micro-sleeps).

While fleets have been early adopters of this technology, it will become more common in consumer vehicles too. Last year, Volvo announced it will put cameras in all of its vehicles, aiming to curb distracted driving, and driving under the influence.

While these safety innovations started in premium vehicles, they are increasingly shifting across to the mass-market, and will be turning up in your workshops in the near future (if they are not already there).

While servicing new technologies does make life more complicated, the government announcement that they will shortly introduce legislation around the mandatory sharing of automotive data should ensure the aftermarket is able to complete this work directly, as against referring it to a dealership.

Workshops with a more significant fleet customer base, or those that typically attract consumers with vehicles in warranty should be paying particularly close attention here, ensuring their teams have the equipment and training needed to service these customers.

This column was prepared for AAA Magazine

by ACA Research, our partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to AAAA members each quarter.

For more information, visit www.acaresearch.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on bselwyn@acaresearch.com.au

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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NEW INITIATIVE TO REDUCE PEDESTRIAN INJURY Government calls for submissions on crash-reducing brake technology for light vehicles The Australian Government has begun consulting on the future of vehicle safety technology – Autonomous Emergency Braking (AEB) systems for new cars.

Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Infrastructure, Transport and Regional Development, Michael McCormack, said Australia was playing a lead role in the international development of a United Nations regulation for AEB systems, which for the first time includes pedestrian protection measures.

“The Australian Government is committed to improving road safety through strong investment and national leadership on our way to preventing deaths and serious injuries occurring on our roads,” the Deputy Prime Minister said.

“Vehicle technology has an important role to play, which is why we are opening consultation on the introduction of a new standard for AEB. “This process will allow industry and the community to express their views on the use of AEB across the new light vehicle fleet.

“We know there is already strong market and consumer demand for AEB systems, with ANCAP Safety research showing a significant increase in the technology being included in the standard fit on light vehicles – going from 18 to 66 percent in under three years.”

Assistant Minister for Road Safety and Freight Transport, Scott Buchholz, said increasing deployment of effective AEB systems in light and heavy vehicles was a priority action of the National Road Safety Action Plan, recognising the significant safety benefits technology can bring to road users.

“AEB systems detect likely forward collisions, provide the driver with a warning and if the driver does not respond, applies the brakes automatically,” Assistant Minister Buchholz said.

“To date, many systems have been unable to detect pedestrians.

“This draft new regulation would require light vehicle AEB systems to detect likely forward collisions with both vehicles and pedestrians to help keep some of our most vulnerable road users safe.

“The measure is expected to save 586 lives and avoid 20,600 serious injuries.”

Assistant Minister to the Deputy Prime Minister Kevin Hogan said this would build on the Government’s significant progress achieved to improve road safety by increasing the fitment of AEB across the heavy vehicle fleet.

“Increasing the uptake of AEB across the heavy vehicle fleet is expected to save 78 lives and prevent 2,152 serious injuries,” Assistant Minister Hogan said.

“Late last year we held a similar consultation process for heavy vehicle AEB technology, which helped us explore the options and their impacts for the heavy vehicle industry more closely.

“The Regulatory Impact Statement process has been completed and we are now considering stakeholder submissions to help shape the content of the Australian Design Rules (ADRs).

“The ADRs are being increasingly harmonised with international vehicle regulations.

“This means regulation based on internationally agreed standards provides consumers with access to the safest vehicles from the global market at the lowest cost.”

The consultation Regulation Impact Statement is available at www.infrastructure.gov.au/vehicles/ design/adr_comment.aspx It will remain open for public comment until 10 December 2020. Submissions can be made by emailing standards@infrastructure.gov.au

GPC ASIA PACIFIC RALLIES BEHIND CHARITY PARTNERS IN 2020 The automotive aftermarket parts supplier has launched a new philanthropic Foundation The Foundation has been developed to assist employees and communities in need, allowing GPC Asia Pacific to continue to support a number of charity partners whilst also rallying behind a range of special causes throughout 2020.

Earlier in the year, as Australia suffered through its worst bushfires on record, GPC Asia Pacific was able to raise over $300,000 to support organisations assisting impacted communities.

In October, the Repco crew threw their support behind Tyrepower during their recent Prostate Cancer awareness campaign, donating $25,000.

And despite an unprecedented global pandemic, the Repco and NAPA teams were able to continue to support their long-standing charity partner, The Starlight Children’s Foundation and to commence a new partnership with the newly established LifeChanger Foundation.

NAPA, which includes the heritage businesses,

Ashdown Ingram, has been a proud partner of The Starlight Children’s Foundation for more than ten years. A key feature of NAPA’s philanthropic calendar is NAPA’s “Troppo Day” sales events in February and October, which this year raised more than $75,000 for The Starlight Children’s Foundation.

At the onset of the COVID-19 crisis the NAPA team also volunteered alongside EB Games to create 4,300 gift packs for the Starlight Children’s Foundation which were distributed to sick children via GPC Asia Pacific’s logistics team.

Supporting The Starlight Children’s Foundation is also a feature of Repco’s year, and between support of Starlight Day in May and a Battery recycling program, the Repco team were able to raise over $80,000. A Christmas campaign is also underway, with the first $10,000 of customer donations being matched by Repco.

NAPA team members creating gift packs with SCF

This year GPC Asia Pacific also commenced a new charity partnership with The LifeChanger Foundation which aims to build more resilient teenagers by empowering them through positive self-identity, identifying and developing inspiring community mentors, and supporting, sustainable, connected communities. Eight hundred team members across the GPC Asia Pacific group took part in the KMs4Kids challenge in September, raising over $25,000 – enough to cover the cost of one Lifechanger mentor training program.

For more information, visit www.gpcasiapac.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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COOLDRIVE AWARDS TOP BRANCHES Three awards were presented during a virtual conference CoolDrive Auto Parts has recognised its topperforming branches for 2020 at its annual Branch Manager Conference.

The conference was held virtually instead of at its original location of Bali, with over 50 people tuning in from across Australia and New Zealand.

Measured on several performance criteria, the CoolDrive Branch of the Year awards are split into revenue turnover and regional categories.

The WJ Blanchard Branch of the Year award for turnover over $5 million was awarded to CoolDrive’s Townsville branch.

The winner of the WJ (John Senior) Blanchard Branch of the Year award for turnover over $5 million was 2019’s runner-up, Queensland’s Townsville branch, which was followed by the Hallam branch in Victoria.

CASTROL PARTNERSHIP RENEWED Jaguar Racing has renewed its long-term strategic partnership with Castrol Jaguar Racing has confirmed a long-term partnership renewal with leading brand Castrol within the ABB FIA Formula E World Championship.

This announcement further extends a successful partnership which started in the 1980s in motorsport.

“We are delighted that Castrol will continue in partnership with Jaguar Racing,” Panasonic Jaguar Racing Director, James Barclay, said.

“Together we have a shared vision for sustainability, innovation, performance and technology.

“Bringing their leading expertise and performance enhancing products to Jaguar Racing is crucial for our powertrain efficiency development both within our race cars and in Jaguar Land Rover’s future vehicles.”

Castrol says it will continue to support the team with technical expertise on and off the track, helping drive Jaguar Racing to more points, podiums and wins with powertrain efficiency gains from lightweight, low friction greases and oils.

Jaguar Racing has benefited from using Castrol e-Transmission Fluid to date, which has reportedly delivered a significant step up in performance, both for cooling and reducing friction losses.

Together, the teams are currently developing a new powertrain fluid for coming seasons that will further improve performance through cooling and component design in the Jaguar I-TYPE. As a key technical partner, Castrol says it understands Jaguar Racing’s ‘Race to Innovate’ philosophy, which aims to influence the next generation of electric vehicles.

“Extending our partnership with Jaguar Racing is testament to our shared goals,” Castrol Vice President Marketing, AS Ramchander, said.

“Pushing our Castrol e-Fluids to the limit in the tough Formula E race environment is the ideal way to develop the electric vehicle technology of the future.”

Castrol says its advanced e-Fluids, e-Transmission Fluids, e-Coolants and e-Greases will extend the life of powertrain systems in Jaguar Land Rover’s current and future road car products, like the multi award-winning all-electric Jaguar I-PACE. For more from Castrol, visit www.castrol.com.au

TAKE A WALK-THROUGH THE AIC New webinar offers a virtual tour of this leading facility

The SL Blanchard Branch of the Year award for turnover under $5 million was awarded to CoolDrive’s Wangara branch.

Winner of the SL (Shirley) Blanchard Branch of the Year award for turnover under $5 million was Western Australia’s Wangara branch, with second place going to Queensland’s Toowoomba branch.

The JW (John) Blanchard Award for Region of the Year was awarded to the Queensland/ Northern Territory region.

For more from CoolDrive Auto Parts, visit www.ishop.cooldrive.com.au 12

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

With the Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) experiencing high demand and a large number of queries regarding its services, the centre’s management recently provided a free virtual tour of this incredible facility.

In the webinar which is available to view online on-demand now on the Auto Innovation Centre’s YouTube channel, AIC Managing Director Luke Truskinger explains the capabilities, technology and services this centre of excellence offers, and how the AIC can help your product development.

The compact 30-minute webinar sees Luke run through the AIC vehicle fleet available for development as well as the amazing workshop and training facilities companies can access when working with the AIC. As an independent DOTARS and RVSA recognised facility, the AIC offers popular

dynamic vehicle testing services which include testing for ADR31, ADR35 and ADR88.

The processes for this testing were explained by Luke in the online session, while as a bonus, the AIC’s 3D specialist Jack Day also showed the centre’s industry leading vehicle teardown and scanning process.

For more information about the AIC, visit www.autoic.com.au or contact Luke Truskinger via luke@autoic.com.au

NEWS

AUSSIE BATTERY MANUFACTURER CHARGES AHEAD WITH MAJOR EXPANSION Century Batteries’ $7 million capital investment project was focused on improving factory efficiencies, equipment utilisation and quality consistency Demand for Australian-made batteries surged through the peak COVID-19 period as iconic Australian battery manufacturer Century Batteries readied to unveil state of the art machinery to meet future markets.

Century Batteries National Marketing Manager (Automotive), Andrew Bottoms, said from May to August this year there was a 15 percent increase in the sale of Australian made batteries over the same period last year.

Andrew said little did the company realise before the new machine even began test runs, that COVID-19 would create increased demand as the disease significantly changed the import landscape.

“Supply chains were interrupted and with so much uncertainly at how events would play out (not to mention for how long), across the country industries were looking for homegrown products they may have previously sourced overseas,” Andrew said.

“Then the next wave came as borders closed. Our retail partners reported a massive push for Aussiemade products, particularly for car batteries and then camping and leisure products as families looked to holiday and travel closer to home.

“The new rotary plate making line will increase production to over 1.3 million batteries a year: the realisation of a three-year project.

“Factory 2020 was dual fold in its ambitions: to improve and upgrade the factory but in doing so double down on our manufacturing footprint.

That meant a commitment to Australians, that they could buy a homegrown battery, designed and made here for our extreme conditions.

“We had confidence in Factory 2020, but like many companies manufacturing Australian goods we would need consumer support: research

showed Australian-made was important to customers.

“Our factory upgrades are also a commitment to the more than 600 people employed by Century Yuasa. Buying Australian has never been more important, especially when it means keeping fellow Australians in a job.”

Century Batteries’ $7 million capital investment project was focused on improving factory efficiencies, equipment utilisation and quality consistency. The company says it puts $100 million back into the Australian economy and not only that, but it also fully supports other Australian companies.

Century Yuasa General Manager of Operations, Matthieu Anquetil, said almost every component needed for the manufacturing process came from other local manufacturers.

“Whether that is lead from South Australia, recycled components from New South Wales and plastics and signage from Queensland: we are invested in manufacturing in Australia,” Matthieu said.

“Our factory upgrades equal any manufacturing plant around the world: allowing us to increase our manufacturing efficiency so we can compete against imported products. Manufacturing in Australia is getting tougher, so we have to become more innovative, designing batteries that better suit the Australian climate.”

The factory upgrades included a complete revision of the factory layout for better efficiencies transitioning to lean manufacturing and improved safety.

Lead plates are the critical components of lead batteries and the new rotary expander line replaces three existing plate making lines (reciprocated expander lines) and runs at a

Queensland Premier Annastacia Pałaszczuk was present for Century Batteries’ factory expansion launch

speed of 45 metres per minute compared with 11 metres per minute for each of the older machines.

The upgrades also include four new curing ovens, designed by Century’s engineering team, with automated buggy systems controlling each step of the curing process. Century has also invested with significant upgrades and expansion of its research and development facility.

Not only did the project reportedly ‘futureproof’ the business and protect current jobs, but additional permanent positions were also created.

“We have over 8,000 retail customers in Australia and 3,000 in New Zealand,” Matthieu said.

“And while a small percentage of products in the Century range are imported from Century Yuasa affiliated and approved suppliers, the majority of the more than two million units Century Yuasa sells every year are manufactured in the Queensland plant.

“The COVID-19 crisis has shone a light on many Australian industries that are critical to our economy and for keeping our supply chain moving with increased support of local manufacturing, a standout.”

For more from Century Batteries, visit www.centurybatteries.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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ULTRA TUNE PROTECTS ‘PROTECTORS’ New program looks to assist those who protect our community Ultra Tune, which says it is Australia’s leading independently owned vehicle after-sales service provider, has introduced a nationwide vehicle sanitation program to assist all “Protectors” – doctors, nurses, ambulance personnel, police, military and other emergency service providers – across the country.

“Ultra Tune is in a unique position,” Ultra Tune Executive Director, Sean Buckley, said.

“We have a national foot-print with more than 260 centres across the country and can deliver this unique, valuable service to the real heroes of this pandemic – our front-line Protectors.”

Using Australia’s only TGA approved disinfectant

shown to be 99.999 percent effective against the COVID-19 virus within 30 seconds of exposure, Nanocyn will be deployed to Ultra Tune stores across the country to deliver the service at 50 percent off RRP to “Protectors.”

“Every-time a Protector enters their car after a shift at the coalface fighting this virus, they run the risk of infecting their vehicles and as such increasing the risk of spreading COVID-19 to their families.” Sean said.

“By offering the Nanocyn sanitation service, at a heavily discounted rate to frontline Protectors at our centres across the nation, we feel that we are doing our bit to stem the spread of this killer virus.”

Other community members throughout Australia can avail themselves of the same service for $49.00.

Ultra Tune notes the following key features of Nanocyn: • Australia’s only TGA approved water-based disinfectant as used by Boeing and Airbus that, unlike ethanol or quad ammonia-based disinfectants, won’t damage vehicle interiors.

• Non-toxic, totally natural and non-corrosive, it has been shown to be 99.999 percent effective

against the COVID-19 virus within 30 seconds of contact.

• Used globally in aviation, deep school/day-care cleans, by the military, emergency services and a host of other essential services.

• Unlike some disinfectants, Nanocyn is proven safe on all surfaces and will not damage your car’s interior.

Ultra Tune commenced trading in 1979 and today has more than 260 stores across Australia. Ultra Tune is independently, Australian owned, and has been rated ‘Best in Category’ three out of the last four years by Canstar Blue.

For more information about Nanocyn, visit www.microsafe.com.au/nanocyn For more information on Ultra Tune, visit www.ultratune.com.au

AMPOL PARTNERS WITH AUTOGURU AutoGuru to manage Australia’s largest fuel card service and repair program AutoGuru has partnered with Ampol to help thousands of Auto Repairers process fleet work via AmpolCard.

Ampol says its AmpolCard, which will be replacing StarCard over the next two years, is known for giving Australian businesses access to the country’s largest petrol and convenience network of more than 1,900 sites. The cards also provide access to exclusive savings through partnerships with local companies.

There are currently over one million StarCard holders in Australia, which will become AmpolCard holders once the transition is complete.

This new partnership with AutoGuru, which says it is Australia’s number one booking site for automotive servicing and repairs, expands the AmpolCard service and repair network to 5,000 auto repairers with hundreds of workshops continuing to sign up.

“We are super excited about this partnership,” AutoGuru Chief Executive Officer, Eden Shirley, said.

“Ampol is an iconic Australian brand and a market leader in fuel cards, and we are so pleased 14

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

to support our workshops to process AmpolCard fleet work along with some of Australia’s bestknown automotive brands.”

The first phase of the partnership enables approved service providers to submit Ampol fleet work for authorisation online via AutoGuru’s Workshop Portal, or call Ampol’s maintenance approval phone line which AutoGuru now manages. The second phase of the partnership will integrate AmpolCard as a payment option into AutoGuru.

Of the 5,000 repairers already signed up, roughly 40 percent are OEM Dealers and 60 percent are aftermarket with half of these being independent.

Authorised AmpolCard holders simply show their AmpolCard or StarCard at any approved repairer to access a fleet discount.

“This partnership aligns with our mission to enable auto repairers to transact seamlessly with customers online,” Eden said.

“What we’ve built for Ampol is an industry first that enables workshops to submit fleet work online and get authorised and paid faster.

manufacturer repair times and OEM and aftermarket parts pricing to deliver a data driven method of quoting and authorising fleet work online.

“My goal within six months is to automate 60 percent of maintenance pre-auth processes to deliver faster approvals and payment for auto service providers.”

AutoGuru says it continues to be at the forefront of digital innovation, most recently claiming its third successive inclusion in the Australian Financial Review’s BOSS Most Innovative Companies Awards.

Any auto service provider that is interested in processing AmpolCard fleet bookings can do so without becoming a member of AutoGuru.

“Built leveraging AutoGuru’s dynamic quoting technology, our new fleet software utilises

For more information, contact 07 5612 5347 or email success@autoguru.com.au

NEWS

AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI 2020 UNITES INTERNATIONAL AND DOMESTIC MARKETS The show will be held across December 2 to 5 As the automotive industry transitions alongside the backdrop of COVID-19, show organisers say Automechanika Shanghai navigates these new roads through its innovative hybrid event.

The show commences from 2 to 5 December at the National Exhibition and Convention Center (Shanghai), while players across the world will be able to tune in digitally from 30 November to 6 December.

“Over the years, Automechanika Shanghai has built up a strong global network synonymous to its highly influential reputation in the market,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said.

“In light of current challenges, the show is an important hub for innovation and collaboration; it will continue to unite players from all corners of the world through its new hybrid platform AMS Live and support industry development along the way.”

To illustrate, show organisers say as one of the few chances to take part in automotive trade

fairs this year, companies are recognising the brand building opportunities that Automechanika Shanghai presents. Through their digital booths, onsite exhibitors can further increase their exposure, image and visibility in the market, as well as host launches to reveal their latest products, technologies and services.

Live streamed onsite events and activities Automechanika Shanghai will host an impressive line-up of fringe events running concurrently with the online platform. The 50-strong programme will see an expected 215 speakers sharing their insights on current and future market trends, as well as touch upon the aftereffects of COVID-19.

For the first time, the Automotive Aftermarket Summit is going hybrid. During one of the highly anticipated panel discussions Ricky Wang, AASA CAF Vice Chairman, Vice President and General Manager of APAC Brake Parts Inc, will discuss the impact of the pandemic in the aftermarket with onsite and remotes speakers from various countries and regions.

Elsewhere, prominent industry players guiding global OEMs and suppliers through supply chain trends and challenges during the AIAG Auto Parts Purchasing Leadership and Suppliers Summit 2020.

Automechanika Shanghai will feature approximately 3,900 exhibitors across 280,000 sqm of space and at the same time, its new platform AMS Live will allow overseas players to connect with onsite exhibitors through key features for live streaming, video calls, live chats and more.

For more information, visit www.automechanika-shanghai.com

190 BURSON AUTO PARTS STORES AND COUNTING

The latest new Burson Auto Parts store services major Northern Victorian regional centres Australia’s Burson Auto Parts has celebrated another major milestone in its almost five-decade history.

Burson Auto Parts says it is Australia’s preferred trade supplier of parts, tools and equipment.

Its 190th store has opened at the large Victorian rural town of Kilmore, located conveniently on the main street at Shop 7, 84 Sydney Street in Kilmore.

This new Burson Auto Parts store services the major Northern Victorian regional centres of Kilmore, Wallan, Wandong, Broadford and Seymour.

Despite the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, Burson Auto Parts has opened an additional seven stores during 2020, taking the total number of new Burson Auto Parts stores joining Australia’s preferred trade network to 20 over the past two years.

Burson Auto Parts says its targeted geographic growth ensures that automotive repairers across the country have access to vast stocks of parts with prompt deliveries, keeping their businesses operating effectively throughout these regional centres and their surrounding rural communities.

Burson Auto Parts says the highly experienced management and staff of its Kilmore store combine multiple decades of direct involvement in the automotive parts and repair industries, ensuring that their customers are provided with the highest level of service.

Committed to supporting local automotive businesses, Burson Auto Parts Kilmore is stocked with a huge range of parts tailored to meet local repairer demand and specific rural vehicle requirements. The Kilmore store also has a fleet of Burson Auto Parts delivery vehicles to ensure prompt deliveries.

This new Burson Auto Parts store reportedly increases the already unparalleled footprint of the Bapcor Group, Australasia’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, further emphasising the local company’s commitment to Australia’s automotive repairers.

“Our strategic growth continues to ensure that automotive repairers have access to large stock holdings of parts, tools and the latest diagnostic equipment along with prompt and knowledgeable customer service,” Burson Trade Executive General Manager, Craig Magill, said.

“Our growth also provides new local employment opportunities ranging from store staff, delivery drivers and local store management, which is particularly important during this very challenging year for so many people.”

Burson Auto Parts now heads towards 200 stores nationwide, heralding a decade of immense strategic growth for this proudly Australian company.

Kilmore and surrounding regional area automotive repairers and service centres can contact Burson Auto Parts locally by calling 03 5742 8065 or by emailing kilmore@burson.com.au For more from Burson Auto Parts, visit www.burson.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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AFTERMARKET COMPANIES RECOGNISED BY AFR A number of AAAA members have been recognised in the 2020 AFR BOSS Most Innovative Companies list AAAA members Ryco Filters, Brown & Watson International and AutoGuru feature amongst the Australian Financial Review’s BOSS Most Innovative Companies rankings released for 2020.

Ryco Filters – 5th in manufacturing and consumer goods In 2020 Ryco has been recognised for its groundbreaking Ryco Vehicle Specific Component Kits (RVSK), after making the top three last year for its RCC350 Crankcase Filter.

In an industry first, Ryco explains it devised a vehicle specific component kit designed for the dual or single installation of Ryco Fuel Water Separator and Ryco Crankcase assemblies.

The convenient kits come supplied with specifically moulded hoses and brackets that are engineered to fit each unique vehicle engine bay.

The speciality kits are aimed at rugged utes including the Ford Ranger, Mazda BT-50, Nissan Navara, Holden Colorado, Mitsubishi Triton, and Toyota’s Hilux and Landcruiser options.

“Ryco’s innovative spirit and inherent curiosity about the problems facing our customers has led us to design and develop our own products rather than duplicate existing offerings,” Ryco Filters General Manager Engineering and Innovation, Alastair Hampton, said.

“Ryco’s own original equipment products help differentiate the brand and create new markets and segments, contributing to continued growth.

“Products like this directly serve the booming ute and SUV segments, and we will continue expanding our range with new vehicle applications and products that draw on more advanced technology.”

Brown & Watson – 8th in manufacturing and consumer goods Brown & Watson International, the company behind leading automotive brands including Narva and Projecta, has been recognised for its innovative Narva VR (Virtual Reality) Driving Light Experience.

The VR Experience – which is available on the Narva website (www.narva.com.au) – sees the user seated as a front passenger of a four wheel drive at night, and allows them to select from a variety of LED light bars, LED driving lamps as well as non-LED lighting over three terrain types: highway, dirt road and a four wheel drive track.

As well as giving an accurate visual representation of each product’s performance, a narrator provides the key benefits of each light as selected and this is supported by performance data including colour temperature, and Lumen and Lux details to the left of screen.

Typically, driving lights are purchased during daylight hours from a retail automotive showroom or online, with buyers rarely having the opportunity to see how the lights would operate in ‘real world’, low visibility conditions. The VR Experience addressed this situation by offering an innovative solution.

“As a company we strongly believe that continuous innovation is key to remaining relevant in our industry – buyers of Narva products should know that we won’t be slowing down anytime soon,” Brown & Watson International Chief Operating Officer, Kabel Davis, said.

AutoGuru – 10th in technology For AutoGuru – which states it is Australia’s number one booking site for car servicing and repairs – 2020 marks three consecutive years of recognition in these prestigious rankings.

The Gold Coast-based company was recognised for its innovative response during the COVID-19 Pandemic.

“I knew (when restrictions were first announced) that we needed to quickly mobilise our network to secure bookings for our members,” AutoGuru Chief Executive Officer, Eden Shirley, said.

“Within one week of announced lockdowns, the call went out to see if workshops had mobile vans that they were willing to put on the road, or if they were willing to pick up customers’ cars and bring them back to the workshop to work on.

“The response to both call-outs was incredible.

We grew our mobile services network 840 percent

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

with a good number of traditional workshops registering a mobile van, and 383 workshops nationally signed up for Valet Servicing. In the weeks that followed during the peak of the pandemic, we saw mobile services account for over 36 percent of bookings which is a huge increase.”

AutoGuru says the real innovation happened after AutoGuru significantly scaled its mobility services and realised the needs of mobile suppliers are uniquely different. Due to the limited capacity of individual mobile providers and rapidly scaling demand, the booking platform’s traditional marketplace approach didn’t work at scale. The bookings team was inundated with rescheduling requests and cancellation numbers increased.

“We solved that problem by changing the way we presented and booked mobile providers and the results were incredible,” Eden said.

The AFR Boss Most Innovative Companies list (previously the BRW Most Innovative Companies list) is now in its ninth year. The list ranks the most innovative organisations in Australia and New Zealand, by industry, and is the only national list of its kind.

In 2020, the list comprised of ten industry lists, compiled from over 600 nominations.

For more information about the AFR BOSS Most Innovative Companies list, please visit www.mostinnovative.com.au

NEWS

INAUGURAL MIDAS TYRE AND AUTO STORE OPENS The new store at 73 Enoggera Road, Newmarket has been completely purpose designed One of Australia’s best known and trusted names in automotive servicing and repairs has begun a new chapter in its almost five-decade history with the opening of the group’s first Midas Tyre and Auto Centre in suburban Brisbane.

Midas says Midas Tyre and Auto stores will bring the same attention to friendly customer service and technical professionalism that has made the 90-store strong Midas group a preferred auto servicing and repair destination for Australian motorists.

Midas explains that the only difference will be these stores’ focus on providing excellent value tyres and related tyre and wheel services across all brands and applications.

At 73 Enoggera Road, Newmarket, Australia’s inaugural Midas Tyre and Auto Centre has been completely purpose designed to cater for all manner of tyre replacements to cover passenger cars, four-wheel drives, light commercial vehicles and trucks.

Owned and operated by well-known local automotive specialist Ben Neighbour, the first Midas Tyre and Auto Centre represents the next major step in a stellar 16-year career with Midas.

Midas Tyre and Auto in Newmarket also uses the

latest specification diagnostic scan equipment and has made a major $50K equipment investment by adding a state of the art Hunter wheel alignment machine that is suitable for all vehicles including those featuring lane sensing technology. In addition to this, the new Midas workshop includes Nitrogen inflation capability, making this the one stop Brisbane destination for all tyre and wheel services along with all servicing and repair requirements.

With one in every five cars presented for servicing at Midas workshops across the country displaying obvious signs of worn or damaged tyres, Midas says the establishment of Midas Tyre and Auto, along with the many Midas Auto Service Centres nationwide that also handle tyre replacements, is an important step towards ensuring that Midas customers are driving the safest possible vehicles.

“Even with this store’s specialisation in tyres, it is important to note that our new Midas Tyre and Auto store will offer the same value priced servicing and guaranteed automotive repairs that Midas is renowned for,” Midas National Operations Manager, Ryan Deal, said.

As a part of Australia’s largest automotive aftermarket company, Bapcor Limited, Midas Tyre and Auto says it enters the domestic tyre

replacement market with significant purchasing power to provide motorists nationwide with competitive tyre brand choice and value for money.

Midas South Australia stores gain RAA Approved Repairer Status In other Midas news, the company has recently announced that all of its South Australian stores have been awarded Royal Automobile Association (RAA) Approved Repairer Status, meeting all RAA stringent requirements “to ensure total quality automotive service and repair to their valued customers.”

In achieving this peak automotive association approval, Midas says essential criteria has been and will continue to be met by all Midas stores located across metropolitan Adelaide.

For more information, visit www.midas.com.au

A TRADE FAIR S.E.T FOR A TWIST Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2021 is sparking a fresh outlook on the traditional automotive trade fair From 18 to 20 March at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, the event-oriented Automechanika Kuala Lumpur 2021 exhibition will uniquely combine all elements of ‘Sourcing, Entertainment and Training’ to offer a ‘S.E.T’ of solutions for fairgoers to meet their participating objectives.

An all-encompassing array of onsite activities and networking opportunities will help create a dialogue between players in the passenger vehicle, commercial vehicle, logistics and IoT sectors.

Event organisers says Malaysia is one of the most dynamic countries in ASEAN and a regional leader of digital development. They say digital breakthroughs in Malaysia present a host of new opportunities in the ongoing automation of traditional manufacturing and practices (Industry 4.0) throughout the automotive value chain; the recent National Automotive Policy (NAP) 2020 even placed IoT at the forefront of future thinking.

Taking these factors into account, Automechanika

Kuala Lumpur says it will push the boundaries even further at its upcoming edition to emphasise the potential of the digital transformation in the automotive market.

“The launch of ‘S.E.T’ is yet another development in the show’s 22-year history,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said.

“It equally weights all components, shaping dynamic growth opportunities for automotive players along the supply chain.

“Each element of ‘Sourcing, Entertainment and Training’ will incorporate underlying digital trends that have the power to, ultimately, revolutionise end-user experiences.

looking to find new suppliers and meet with existing clients. The 2021 event expects to host exhibitors from 16 countries and regions across all sectors at the fair.

Therefore, we aim to embody this innovative spirit at the show with one-of-a-kind activities that foster a passionate albeit business-oriented atmosphere.”

At the same time, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur will once again be more than just a trading platform. The Auto NITZ Party and EMMA Malaysia Final – Car Audio and Modifications Competition will give way to a new type of auto-cultural festival. Meanwhile, information gathering, training and applied teaching also remain huge pull factors for the show.

As a dominant aspect of the show, business opportunities are key drivers for participants

For more information about S.E.T at Automechanika Kuala Lumpur, visit www.automechanika-kl.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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COVER STORY

PENRITE: AUSSIE OWNED, AUSSIE OPERATED The Penrite story commenced more than 90 years ago in Melbourne

Penrite proudly says that since 1926, its products have helped shape the country.

In all that time, it has remained a 100 percent Australian owned and operated business, committed to producing the best lubricants, made right here in Australia.

The Penrite story started out on a kitchen stovetop in Melbourne more than 90 years ago. It was then that a 16-year-old Les Mecoles founded the Penrite Oil Company from his parents’ home in St Kilda, Melbourne.

The first batches of oil were delivered to service stations, milling factories, and the local shipping port using his father’s wheelbarrow. The business continued to grow, but in 1979 Les, suffering from poor health, sold the company to John and Margaret Dymond.

John’s 20 years of experience in not only the oil industry but also the additive market gave him the background and knowledge he needed to take up the challenge of running his own company.

John launched a new range of premium multigrade engine oils known as HPR (High Performance Range), identified to solve automotive oil consumption problems and tailored for the local, harsh Australian conditions.

Other products introduced over time included racing oils; specialist products for classic, vintage and veteran vehicles; Enviro+ oils for modern fuel efficient, low emission engines; lubricants for heavy duty vehicles, motorcycles, marine and small engine applications; gear oils; transmission fluids; hydraulic fluids; coolants; additives; and hand cleaner.

Committed to Australia From those humble beginnings, Penrite says it now sells its “Better Class of Oil” around the world.

“When you choose Penrite, you are supporting a 100 percent Australian family owned and operated business that employs Australians that have been producing world class lubricants, coolants, additives and hand cleaners on the ground here in Australian factories since 1926,” Penrite Group Sales Manager, John Firth, said.

Penrite operates two manufacturing plants in Australia blending premium grade products for Australian conditions that have been trusted for 18

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

generations in automotive workshops and service centers as well as in industrial, agriculture/ forestry, mining, marine, heavy transport and many other applications where premium lubricants are used.

“No other Australian lubricant company has this pedigree of longevity and trust,” John said.

Penrite’s commitment to Australian manufacturing employs Australians not only at Penrite itself, but in many other businesses supporting that manufacturing role.

“This keeps money in the country to grow our

country’s economy and shows that we can compete on a world scale with businesses that have packed up and gone offshore long ago – along with their money,” John said.

“It has never been more important to support Australian products and brands while the country gets back on its feet after the pandemic.

“At Penrite we are working extra hard to make sure we keep producing world class products right here in Australia.

“We are investing more money into improved and smarter manufacturing facilities and employing

COVER STORY

more Australians to make sure we repay the faith and trust our customers have shown in us for over 90 years.

“We will continue to produce products that are at the cutting edge of technology and perform the way our customers expect from Penrite.

“We will continue to provide OEM and Industry licensed products that guarantee satisfaction and performance and combine this with a service and support level that has been the industry standard setter for decades.

“We will also continue to produce the right

product for the right application and guarantee their performance.”

Penrite is clearly passionate about investing in the future for all Australians.

“Australians are still really hurting and we’re certainly doing all we can to support Aussie families, we’re just reminding others to think about doing the same,” John said.

“By asking Australians whether they are supporting Australia right now, we are supporting local jobs and restimulating our economy which in turn is supporting local families and communities.

“We are also guaranteeing we are getting the highest quality product, made right here in Australia by Australians; something Penrite have been doing for nearly 100 years.

“Penrite is committed to investing in the future for local manufacturing and local jobs and aiding in the recovery of our nation during these hard times.”

“So, from Penrite, we say ‘THANK YOU’ to all of our customers for placing their trust in us for over 9 decades and being part of our family.”

To find out more about Penrite and its Australian Made products visit www.penriteoil.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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TECHNOFILE

SOLVING BMW CLIMATE CONTROL ISSUES In this article, Opus IVS details its support of a customer with a BMW with an inoperable climate control system Opus IVS says its IVS 360 system offers an invaluable diagnostic support resource which has been uniquely designed to empower technicians to repair vehicles with confidence.

Thanks to its dedicated OEM-Trained Master Technicians, the Opus IVS team says it is able to provide brand-specific diagnostic support to technicians and workshop owners all over the world.

Opus IVS’ experts remotely access in real-time directly to vehicle communication systems to diagnose, program and calibrate vehicles.

It says this eliminates uncertainty, giving workshops the confidence to get the most complex vehicles back on the road safely and fast.

Opus IVS also states its IVS 360 team is positioned to provide more than just technical support to mechanics for how to use their own diagnostic tools, but also provides crucial live step-by-step guidance for actually fixing vehicle faults.

Opus IVS says its customers can quickly and easily request support from the IVS 360 team directly from their DrivePro device.

Following is an example a customer support request and guidance provided from the IVS 360 team in regards to a climate control system that was stuck on hot.

Make: BMW 1 Series and 3 Series Model series affected: F30, F21, F32, F31, F20, F34, F23, F22, F33, F36 Symptoms: The primary symptom was noted as climate control being stuck on hot. Other symptoms of this issue could include:

Image one: Wiring damage

1. Blower motor operation erratic or no operation of the blower; 2. Erratic heater control panel operation; 3. No directional control when using the air conditioning system; 4. Blower fan runs on after the ignition is switched off; and 5. Various LIN bus faults stored.

OPUS IVS HOSTS WEBINARS

Possible Causes: Damage to the LIN-Bus wiring

Opus IVS recently hosted three days of special tech sessions exclusively for AAAA members.

Repair Steps: 1. Diagnose vehicle with Opus IVS device, read out fault memory.

2. Remove the dash panel.

3. The main area of concern is the support bracket of the dash panel – inspect the wiring in this area before replacing any components.

Image two shows photos of common problem areas.

4. Once the damaged area has been located and repaired, it is important to re-route the wiring harness to prevent any further damage.

In October Opus IVS hosted special tech sessions for AAAA members On Monday October 26, Wednesday October 28 and Friday October 30, the Opus IVS team presented to webinar attendees on the topic of Electronic Logbook Operation for Jaguar Land Rovers (session one), Volkswagen and Audi (session two), and BMW and Mini vehicles (session three).

For information on IVS 360 support and how it can help your workshop, visit www.opusivs.com or contact Opus IVS on 03 8561 7600 or sales-au@opusivs.com

Each webinar explained the process required to log electronic service history through the respective manufacturer’s dealer portal while also covering how to reset the service light or update the service history in the car.

The webinars are available to view on-demand now in the Member Portal of www.aaaa.com.au Image two: Dash panel removed

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For more information, visit www.autologic.com

PRODUCT R&D

GROUNDBREAKING PASSENGER PROTECTION 40 years ago, Bosch launched the electronic airbag control unit for cars A collision, a loud bang, and the worst-case scenario has been avoided – that is the easiest way to describe the benefits of an airbag.

Playing a key role in this protective “detonation” is the airbag control unit. It functions as the control center for the lifesaving inflatable cushion.

Forty years ago, Bosch joined forces with the Daimler-Benz AG to start production of the world’s first electronic airbag control unit – giving a decisive boost to passenger protection.

“Bosch is a pioneer in automotive electronics and safety,” Bosch Board of Management Member, Harald Kröger, said.

“The electronic airbag control unit shows what we mean by ‘Invented for life.’”

Since the start of full-scale production in December 1980, Bosch has manufactured more than 250 million airbag control units, constantly refining the technology all the while.

The company’s accident researchers estimate that since the market launch of Bosch’s airbag control units, the front, side, and head airbags they deploy have helped save some 90,000 lives around the world.

as well as its severity, and deploys the airbag and belt tensioner as needed.

In just ten milliseconds – ten times faster than a person can blink – the trigger algorithm interprets the sensor data to determine whether the driver has simply hit the brakes, bumped into a parked car, jumped the curb, or if the vehicle has had a severe collision or is at risk of rolling over.

Following a collision, the system also sends a signal to cut off the fuel supply, or, in electric vehicles, to disconnect the high voltage battery.

In addition, the system forwards information about the accident to other vehicle systems – for example eCall, which automatically calls emergency services after an airbag has been deployed.

The right decision in milliseconds

If the situation is dangerous, the system ignites the pyrotechnic gas generator. Within 30 milliseconds, the airbag is fully inflated and can protect the driver and passengers.

Since 1977, Bosch engineers have worked with automakers on the first electronic airbag control unit, putting it through more than 6,000 crash tests in 60 vehicle models.

Using internal and external acceleration, yawrate, and pressure sensors, a state-of-the-art airbag control unit identifies the type of accident

Today’s vehicles come with as many as nine airbags installed, which can be deployed individually depending on the accident scenario.

Today, more than 1.8 million crash simulations are necessary to prepare an airbag control unit for large-scale production in a vehicle model.

This makes them a key component of vision zero: no fatalities or serious injuries in road traffic.

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PRODUCT R&D

The first airbag system, which went into production in December 1980 and then had its market launch in the Mercedes-Benz S-Class, consisted of three components – a voltage converter, an energy reserve, and a control unit – with a total of 170 parts.

Airbag control units and automated driving

These controlled only an airbag and belt tensioner for the driver and optionally for the front passenger.

Such an interaction might look something like this: the system swiftly recognises an impending accident and, for example, automatically puts the occupants into a sitting position that reduces their risk of injury before the actual collision.

Today’s twelfth generation airbag control units have just half as many parts and can manage up to 48 restraint devices, including various front and side airbags, knee airbags, and belt tensioners.

In the future, as the number of sensors in vehicles rises, applying the information they gather could ensure that airbags, belt tensioners, and other vehicle functions interact even better.

It can deploy airbags and belt tensioners to provide the best possible crash protection for every person in the vehicle.

Increasingly automated driving is one area where these possibilities are relevant, since at higher levels it opens up entirely new interior concepts and more room to move about, even for drivers: they may swivel their seat, turn to face the passengers, or get cozy in their seat.

As seating arrangements in the vehicle become more flexible, it is ever more crucial to have very specific control of airbags and belt tensioners.

In turn, this increases the complexity of the demands on the airbag control units that Bosch is already working on today. Even after 40 years, this particular bag of tricks is still far from empty.

For more from Bosch, visit www.bosch.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 2020

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PRODUCTS

ACS LAUNCHES NEW RANGE ACL OFFERS COATED BEARING For Hyundai i30 and Veloster RANGE Calico-coated ACL RACE Series Performance Engine Bearings are now available Long term bearing industry partners, ACL Bearing Company (Australia) and Calico Coatings – USA, have announced they are now collaborating to offer customers and engine rebuilders an additional option in performance engine rebuilding.

The alliance has culminated in the release of an ACL offering of Calico-coated ACL RACE Series Performance Engine Bearings.

Australian Clutch Services has recently released several new standard replacement and performance upgrade kits for 2016-on 1.6L petrol Hyundai i30 and Veloster models.

The new kits are available with a replacement dual-mass flywheel or a single-mass flywheel conversion and they have also included a replacement dual clutch transmission clutch assembly for DCT equipped vehicles.

The standard replacement kits to suit conventional manual vehicles are available in two variations, including a standard dual-mass flywheel kit with a rigid organic friction disc, or a single-mass flywheel conversion kit with a sprung organic friction disc.

Both of these kits are available with a replacement concentric slave cylinder and the single-mass flywheel conversion also includes replacement flywheel and pressure plate bolts.

Also included in the range is a replacement dual clutch transmission clutch assembly. This comes as a complete replacement kit including the assembly itself and replacement forks and bearing.

The extensive range covers popular Australian, US, European and Japanese applications – full application details are contained within ACL’s Coated Performance Engine Bearing Application Guide 2021.

Calico has been coating ACL bearings for individual customers for over 15 years and the partnership enhances this arrangement.

ACL General Manager, Chris Brooks, said following the successful release of a coated RACE Series Performance Engine Bearing range in the USA in June 2020, it was the logical next step to offer an extended range tailored for the Australian market.

“The obvious synergy between the two companies led to the formation of this partnership and the fully integrated product offering,” Chris said.

“Both companies have exemplary reputations for quality, performance and detailed knowledge in their areas of specialisation.

“We are holding goods stocks in both our Australian and USA warehouses and product will be available from all ACL Distributors.”

For further information or to download your copy of the Coated Performance Engine Bearing Application Guide 2021, visit www.aclperformance.com.au 26

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

ACS explains that it is also offering a hire program for the specialised installation tool when purchasing a complete clutch kit through its distributor network.

Xtreme Clutch, Australian Clutch Services’ performance street and Motorsport division, has also been working on performance upgrades for these kits and is now offering a range of organic and ceramic upgrades with performance pressure plates, reportedly offering a significant increase in torque capacity.

These upgrades are designed for vehicles that have been tuned for increased torque or for vehicles used in Motorsport applications.

For more information on the Australian Clutch Services range of products, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.

LIFTECH WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT Strong and reliable workshop equipment Karmot is a family owned Australian company which focuses on the importation, manufacture and wholesale distribution of Workshop Service Equipment.

Amongst its brands is the Liftech range of workshop equipment.

The Liftech Garage Jack The Liftech Garage Jack has been fully tested and complies with Australian Standards AS2615-2016.

Features of the jack include turbo lift to load, extended low entry with a high lift, universal joint release, rubber bumper bar protector and a handle that stands over centre. It has a working load limit of 2000kg and is also built longer and wider for extra safety and stability.

The Liftech Garage Jack (part # LT200TLPN) is covered by a 12-month warranty and Karmot’s Australia-wide service and parts back-up.

The Liftech Vehicle Support Stand The Liftech Vehicle Support Stand is manufactured to comply with Australian Standards AS 2538:2016 and features weldedstyle construction for safety and strength.

Other features include a heavy-duty rachet bar for safe, easy location and wide base with feet for stability.

Three models are available: • The LVS3R has a working load limit of 3000kg, a closed height of 300mm and maximum height of 452mm.

• The LVS5R has a working load limit of 5000kg, a closed height of 408mm and maximum height of 636mm.

• The LVS8R has a working load limit of 8000kg, a closed height of 460mm and a maximum height of 712mm.

Liftech Vehicle Support Stands are rated as a single stand but sold only in pairs.

For more information, visit www.karmot.com or contact Karmot by calling 02 9622 7388 or 1300 KARMOT (1300 527 668) or emailing sales@karmot.com

PRODUCTS

BRAKE FLUID TESTING Brake fluid is designed to have a high boiling point to withstand the high temperatures generated during braking The one major drawback of brake fluid though is that due to its chemical composition, it absorbs moisture.

This can be moisture from the air (via the breather hole in the master cylinder cap) or via the rubber hosing. The more moisture in the brake fluid, the lower the boiling point. AutoTest explains that this increases the risk of “brake fade.”

Under heavy driving conditions – such as towing, or on steep, winding roads or stop-start braking at high speeds – brake fluid boils, turns to vapour, and the brake pedal goes straight to the floor with no braking action. This is known as “vapour-lock.”

If the police are called to such an accident, unless they test the boiling point of the brake fluid, all will appear normal: the brake fluid will have cooled back down, the brake pedal will feel firm, and the driver, having previously been unable to stop, will be faced with some serious questions.

Brake fluid is a safety-critical item, but how many drivers know or ever ask to get their brake fluid checked? They know about their oil and

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

windscreen washer fluid, but brake fluid has been largely ignored by both the vehicle manufacturers and garages.

So how do you test for moisture in brake fluid?

AutoTest says the only approved way is to boil it.

On the back of every bottle of brake fluid is a chart showing the “dry” (uncontaminated), and “wet” (contaminated) boiling points of all the various grades of brake fluid.

Brake fluid manufacturers use what’s called an ERBP (Equilibrium Reflux Boiling Point) test to determine the boiling point of brake fluid. In a lab this can take hours to set up and complete.

AutoTest says its Brake Fluid tester is designed to test the boiling point of the fluid in the car in less than 30 seconds, with digital accuracy.

AutoTest says it works on all grades of brake fluid and shows clearly what the fluid has boiled at, and what the DOT minimums are for each, making the fluid change decision easy for the technician and the customer.

Once the brake fluid has been changed, garages can offer to re-test the brake fluid using the Autotest Brake fluid tester, to clearly show the improved results on the new fluid.

Consumers should also be aware that new brake fluid from a sealed bottle must be used for every brake change. There have been cases where brake fluid has been left in an opened bottle, effectively making the “new” fluid as contaminated as the old.

AutoTest says brake fluid testing should be part of an annual inspection. As a safety-critical item, it says it is surprising that it remains largely ignored by many inspection regimes.

For more information, visit www.autotest.net.au

PRODUCTS

NEW QI WIRELESS SMARTPHONE CHARGING RANGE A vehicle-specific range from Aerpro Whether its Navigation Apps, Bluetooth Handsfree, Music Streaming, Wireless Apple CarPlay or Wireless Android Auto, virtually every driver will use their smartphone in their vehicle.

With all the features available on smartphones and the continual development of connected driving apps, our smartphone batteries are constantly being drained and often require charging multiple times per day.

distant future, it is expected charging ports will be removed from smartphones all together.

Aerpro says it is pleased to announce a new and exciting Vehicle Specific Qi Wireless Charging Product range, which has been designed to seamlessly integrate into a number of popular vehicles.

While USB charge ports have become a standard feature in most vehicles today, Aerpro says they lack the latest charge technology protocols to support efficient charging of modern smartphones.

The range is Qi-Certified, which means the chargers are compatible with the latest smartphones and also have a number of safety protocols including heat shielding and foreign object detection, protecting your smartphone from damage while charging.

If a driver is using multiple apps on their phone, the apps may drain the smartphone battery quicker than the USB charger can keep up. And not only do they lack the power and technology required, they can be inconvenient to access and they also require charging cables to be connected which can be messy and simply just inconvenient to use.

They feature three-coil charging technology and support up to 15 Watt charging, providing the fastest in-vehicle wireless charging solution for your smartphone. The integrated chargers also have an on/off switch and illuminated LED indicator allowing for quick view of charging status.

Aerpro says wireless charging is quickly replacing the need for USB ports in vehicles as it is now a standard feature in smartphones and in the not too

The chargers are designed specifically for the vehicle, mounting in the centre console to offer a gap-free seamless integration charging solution.

They come supplied with a vehicle specific power harness and include a detailed fitting and operation user manual, making them simple to fit even for the at home DIYer. Currently Aerpro have solutions to suit Mitsubishi Triton, Toyota Hilux, Holden Colorado and Colorado 7, Isuzu D-Max and MU-X, Honda Civic and Holden VE Commodore, with more models to arrive soon.

Aerpro also offers a range of universal wireless chargers, designed to mount in various locations including the windscreen, air vent, and dashboard of the vehicle.

For more information, visit www.aerpro.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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PRODUCTS

NEW SCENE LIGHT STAY SAFE From Narva Designed and engineered specifically for emergency service vehicles and marine applications, Narva’s new scene light (Part No, 72467) meets high levels of water and dust ingress and UV protection.

Meeting IP68 and IP69K standards, the new light is fully waterproof and is contained within a robust black diecast aluminium housing with ASA covers for maximum UV protection and durability in all conditions.

The surface mount design and LEDs positioned at a 40º downward angle reportedly make Narva’s scene light ideal for installation above a passenger door, driver’s door, sliding door or tailgate, where maximum visibility is often required by emergency services and utility vehicles.

Six 3W high powered LEDs produce an impressive 1900 lumens of bright white light, using a broad beam light pattern for illuminating work spaces.

A special white housing version is also available (Part No. 72467W) for white vehicles, RVs and marine applications.

Narva’s new Scene Light is available from leading automotive, transport and marine outlets nationwide.

Narva is Australian owned and says it is a leader in the development, manufacture and supply of automotive lighting and electrical components for the automotive, marine and transport industries.

For more information, visit www.narva.com.au 32

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

ZF Aftermarket recommends regular inspection of suspension and steering parts The year 2020 has been an unusual one so far in terms of car use: despite the increase in home office working, more cars are being driven to maximise social distancing.

Experts therefore recommend regular inspection of safety-relevant suspension and steering parts. If components need to be replaced, ZF Aftermarket says it offers its customers an expanded Lemförder spare parts portfolio in the area of suspension and steering for a wide range of popular vehicle models from Audi to Volvo.

Suspension and steering parts should be checked regularly, as they play a decisive role in the safe handling of a car. If a defect is found in the suspension and steering parts used there, for example in the ball joints or rubber bearings, these must be completely replaced with new ones.

Damage can occur within days if the sealing protection on a component is inadequate.

Moisture and dirt accelerate the process once again, which is why everything in the chassis should be in perfect condition at all times.

Once dirt or water has penetrated the suspension and steering parts, this is often only manifested by a rattling noise in the chassis, for example in the case of wheel-guiding ball joints.

Very quickly, however, the driving behaviour becomes unstable and the car rapidly becomes uncontrollable.

Depending on how far the joint damage has progressed, the affected connection point in the wheel suspension can even break.

Leaky steering boots have a similarly critical effect. As a result, the gear rack can corrode, irreparably damaging the hydraulic sealing components in the steering gear.

The potential for danger is great, as the steering support can then fail completely while driving.

In addition, this results in high costs, with the replacement of the complete steering system necessary from this point on.

Safe and sound with spare parts in OE quality When replacing defective steering collars, ZF Aftermarket says a few basic principles should be carefully observed.

It states cable ties or universal hose clamps which do not comply with OE specifications should not be used to fix steering collars; as these do not provide sufficient or permanent sealing. Such measures significantly increase the risk of steering damage as described above.

On the other hand, ZF Aftermarket says

mechanics put safety first when they select OE quality steering parts and steering collars from the portfolio of the ZF Aftermarket product brand Lemförder.

If it is necessary to replace a component in the suspension and steering system, ZF Aftermarket’s experts recommend the installation of parts in OEM quality. Under its Lemförder brand, ZF Aftermarket says it sells a broad product portfolio which is regularly tested in various practical and laboratory tests to ensure the highest quality standards are maintained for all parts.

For example, in a so-called salt spray test, it was reportedly proven that the ball pivot of a Lemförder ball joint shows no corrosion whatsoever, even more than 30 days after direct contact with the salt solution, thanks to the special surface protection.

Comprehensive portfolio expansion in suspension and steering In order to provide the best possible support to automotive companies for any necessary replacement of components, ZF Aftermarket says it has comprehensively expanded its range of spare parts in the suspension and steering area, including a wide variety of rubber-to-metal parts.

Among other things, Lemförder products can be ordered locally for a range of vehicles, including a broad range of spare parts for brand-new models, such as ball joints, engine mounts, axial tie rod, the stabiliser link, track control arms and axle mounts.

Since these are safety-critical parts, ZF Aftermarket says they are subject to the greatest care during design, production and assembly and all Lemförder products in this category are manufactured in original equipment manufacturer quality.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/au

PRODUCTS

GCG NEW FLOW BENCH The first of its kind in Australia With any technology, the only constant is change and GCG Turbos says this is particularly true with turbochargers.

Today’s turbos are complex components with electronic controllers moving mechanical vanes with massive rotational speeds, lower tolerances and extreme heat range.

One of the largest and longest running turbo sales and repair companies in Australia, GCG Turbos has recently taken delivery of its new dynamic calibration machine at their Sydney Head Quarters.

“We constantly receive inquiries from workshops regarding proper calibration of Wastegate turbochargers, early VNT turbochargers as well as the most advanced turbochargers with electric actuator which require high-precision settings,” GCG Turbos Chief Executive Officer, Brett Lloyd, said.

“We offer flow bench calibration solutions for passenger cars, light- and heavy-duty truck turbochargers.”

The new dynamic calibration machine offers:

• First-class, Swiss made, industrial flow meters • Turbocharger in-car orientation • Static or dynamic turbine section mass flow measurement with rotor speed validation • Pressure ratio measurement under load at high rotational speed • Compressor section volume flow measurement and REA programming to ensure the proper calibration of Wastegate turbochargers and early VNT turbochargers, as well as the most advanced turbochargers with electric actuators which require high-precision settings.

GCG Turbos says you can choose the best process that fits your needs: turbo test; static turbine section mass flow measurement; or diagnostics and programming of electric actuator of passenger car and heavy-duty truck turbocharger.

The advantages of dynamic calibration of VNT turbochargers include: • Dynamic calibration (the rotor is spinning) of variable geometry according to airflow— calibration of minimum, medium and maximum flow

• Compressor section performance test • Turbocharger oil leakage test • REA of Hella, Siemens testing and reprogramming • Pneumatic and vacuum actuator test • Position sensor test • Turbocharger boost pressure ratio test.

• Real life spin test.

• Turbocharger rotational speed measurement • Turbocharger air loss test GCG Turbos new dynamic calibration machine has been validated by BorgWarner Turbo Systems For more information, visit www.gcg.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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PRODUCTS

NEW CHASSIS PARTS From Pedders Pedders is pleased to release to the market two new Chassis Parts for the Ford Mustang (2015 onwards).

Adjustable Rear Camber Arm (Part # 5115) Pedders says its Adjustable Rear Camber Arms are precision engineered to enhance road handling, steering and performance without compromising ride quality.

They offer high quality, direct upgrade replacement for original parts and have been designed for ease of installation, saving time for the installer.

The Adjustable Rear Camber Arms boast heavy duty construction for enhanced durability.

They are covered by a two-year/40,000km nationwide warranty.

Stabiliser Links (Part # 424201) Pedders says its Stabiliser Links are engineered to ensure the ultimate in strength and performance while also offering the flexibility of adjustable positions.

The Stabiliser Links feature an encapsulated ball joint and heavy-duty construction.

Pedders’ Stabiliser Links for Ford Mustang (2015 on) are covered by a two-year/40,000km nationwide warranty.

For further information please contact your local Pedders Suspension specialist or check out www.pedders.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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PRODUCTS

LATEST SPEC HELLA RALLYE 4000 RELEASED As it celebrates this new release, Hella explains how top-quality beats low-priced auxiliary lighting When it comes to auxiliary lighting, Hella says one factor that remains true today is that if you buy a quality product, you get a quality outcome.

that is recognised for its high-quality products that feature in the world’s prestige and highperformance vehicles as standard equipment.

Hella says that with an inferior product that does not incorporate surge protection and high-quality electronics, the light unit can fail when powered up and then require replacement.

On that basis, Hella says that when you buy one of its lights on the aftermarket, it is backed by a stand-alone reputation that is not subject to short cuts in specification and manufacturing.

It is a similar story with the optical ability of the lens. A top-quality light projects its visibility to recording instruments across all required angles, whereas with the inferior optics of some brands the performance is noticeably lacklustre by comparison.

New for 2020, the latest version of the HELLA Rallye 4000 is now available as an LED driving lamp, offering either pencil beam focus for longer range illumination or a broader spread beam.

Hella explains that having to replace the lowpriced brand more frequently because of failure also reduces the original cost advantage.

With the ability to make a change in beam pattern or replace a unit, a replaceable insert can be swapped over to the original housing, saving on installation and the cost of purchasing a complete housing and mounting system.

Hella says it has been the guiding light in the design and manufacture of driving lamps for decades.

Weighing in at 2.7kg each, it is a multi-voltage light suitable for 12-Volt and 24-Volt application, well within its range of 9-Volt to 32-Volt.

The Rallye 4000 LED spread beam comes in with a light pattern of over 800 metres at 1-Lux performance or you can switch to a pencil beam insert and the range is over 1.3km at 1-Lux.

Although stores today stock all types of lighting systems that make all levels of claims for their performance, Hella says it is only its brand

It is a clear white (5900K) light in a casing that is water and vibration resistant and also incorporates over-voltage protection.

For more information or to find the nearest stockist, contact Hella Australia’s customer service team on 1800 061 729 or email info.au@hella.com

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PRODUCTS

NEW FROM PERFORMANCE WHOLESALE Performance Wholesale Australia is located in Slacks Creek, Australia The aftermarket performance parts company has a range of new products in stock.

Calico Coated Bearings Performance Wholesale explains that Calico Coatings proudly partners with ACL, Mahle/Clevite and Durabond to provide high performing coated bearings for the motorsports industry.

Coated bearings are coated with a CT-1 Dry Film Lubricant coating. This coating helps reduce friction and abrasive wear and provides intermittent dry lubrication while not being affected by dust or dirt.

CT-1 is also specifically engineered to withstand the extreme conditions of today’s high performance engines. Performance Wholesale says professional engine builders can enjoy a higher level of confidence with increased embeddability, strength and durability with Coated bearings.

Ferrea Retainer Degree Gauge - T7000 Performance Wholesale says every workshop and garage should have a Ferrera Retainer Degree Gauge.

Manufactured from high quality aluminium, Ferrea’s new retainer degree gauge will allow you to precisely measure the degree on any type of retainer. With this gauge, you can measure the following degrees: six degree, seven degree, Super 7 (eight degree) and 10 degree.

RD2 by CTW Automation The RD2 is a compact, lightweight machine that is designed to be structurally sound where loading is applied based on FEA analysis. Measurements are taken based on the line of actuation to ensure only the damper or specimen result is recorded.

This Damper and Shock “Dyno” Testing Equipment features a 2HP Motor; 1200+ lbs force; .5” -1” -2” strokes and 30+ in/sec velocity and weights 110kg. The CTW Probe Software includes a one-year warranty and support contract.

RD3 by CTW Automation The RD3 is a compact, lightweight table top machine that is designed to be structurally sound where loading is applied based on FEA analysis. Measurements are taken based on the line of actuation to ensure only the damper or specimen result is recorded.

This Damper and Shock “Dyno” Testing Equipment features a 3HP Motor; 1600+ lbs force at 10ips; .5” -1” -2” strokes; 39 in/sec velocity and weighs 115kg. The CTW Probe Software includes a one-year warranty and support contract.

Also available: Race Engine Technical Magazine Performance Wholesale says Race Engine Technology has established itself as the communications hub of the racing powertrain world. It says its incisive analysis reveals secrets of performance alongside comprehensive coverage of all new developments and revealing interviews with those central to the on-going evolution of technology.

For more information, contact the Performance Wholesale Sales team on 07 3808 1986 or sales@pwa-au.com or visit www.performancewholesale.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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PRODUCTS

PARKSAFE PARKING AND DRIVING SENSORS The range features more than 40 different sets of parking sensor models and Blind Spot Detection Systems Back in the late 1980s, Burg Design says it pioneered the Parking Sensor market in Australia as well as in some overseas countries.

It says since then, the brand ParkSafe has “become the world’s most recognised brand for the best performance, quality, features and reliability.”

Further, Burg Design says ParkSafe is the number one choice for numerous Vehicle Manufacturers and leading Aftermarket suppliers around the world.

Since those early days, more than 12 million sets of ParkSafe Sensors have been sold and Burg Design says it is not slowing down. It explains the range has expanded to more than 40 different sets of parking sensor models and Blind Spot Detection Systems so as to accommodate every possible application such as cars, trucks, forklifts, heavy equipment, trailers, caravans, passenger buses, motor homes, boats, agricultural machinery, proximity measuring equipment and more.

Burg Design says most of the success of ParkSafe

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is due to the overall design and quality of the range as well as the incredibly sharp object detection accuracy of the unique ultrasonic sensors which it says “far outperform all others tested in the market to date.”

ParkSafe Sensors reportedly have an exceptionally wide view angle of 160 degrees so as to almost eliminate blind spots, with Burg Design stating that most others only offer a 70-120 degree view.

It says the ParkSafe systems all have four detection zones as well as a blanking zone for eliminating false alarms when tow bars are installed.

The sensor kits are available for all types of applications such as front, rear, sides and roof on most vehicles. Burg Design also welcomes special application requests.

The latest ParkSafe developments include waterproof modules for installing the ECU in the engine bay or exposed to the elements at the rear; as well as wireless front sensor kits for much faster and easier installation on all types of vehicles, many of which Burg Design says

were previously considered impossible to have sensors fitted to, such as trailers and very large commercial vehicles and various heavy mobile equipment.

All ParkSafe sensors come with a five-year local warranty and full technical support.

For further information, contact Burg Design on 03 9555 9277 or sales@burgdesign.com.au or visit www.burgdesign.com.au ParkSafe Sensors can also be purchased online at www.autoelec.com.au

PRODUCTS

ACS EXPANDS US PERFORMANCE BRAND XClutch has introduced several new performance upgrades Australian Clutch Services (ACS) is continuing its US brand expansion despite the current export difficulties facing the Australian automotive aftermarket.

Since the XClutch US performance brand was established in 2016, ACS says the brand has continued to develop rapidly and is quickly becoming popular in this expansive market for aftermarket performance parts.

The XClutch brand specialises in performance street and motorsport clutch kits and accessories, just like its Australian equivalent, Xtreme Clutch.

The range has been altered slightly to meet the needs of the US market and includes upgrades for vehicles that were never delivered to Australia.

With the brand quickly evolving and demand for these performance upgrades increasing rapidly, XClutch has introduced several new performance upgrades including multi-plate kits to suit the Shelby GT350 and several upgrades for various generations of Corvettes.

XClutch has also been on display at a number of events throughout the US including LS Fest

East which was held from the 11th to the 13th of September and GRIDLIFE Midwest Festival held from the 1st to the 4th of October.

ACS says these shows provided the opportunity to showcase some of XClutch’s top street performance and Motorsport upgrades for various LS V8 powered vehicles as well as its “exceptional” performance range of Japanese applications.

“Our XClutch brand has seen significant growth recently, mainly due to strong stock levels in our US warehouse as well as our increased brand exposure,” Australian Clutch Services Export Sales Specialist, Chris Meadows, said.

“Our stand at SEMA show in Las Vegas last year was a major boost and we have a full-time sales representative in the US to support this quickly evolving market.”

The US market has seen a number of significant challenges throughout the past 24 months, with uncertainty around government regulations regarding imported automotive components as well as the effects of the COVID-19 pandemic,

however Australian Clutch Services says the brand has remained strong throughout these challenges and is continuing to expand.

“2020 has bought with it a number of challenges for our export business but we have managed to navigate these successfully so far and are working hard to offer the same levels of service and support that is required in this fast-paced market,” Chris said.

“The car parc in the US is different to Australia and Europe. Although we have already covered a massive proportion of this market, it is important to ensure we cover all of the US specific vehicles as well as any changing market trends or demands.”

For more information on the Australian Clutch Services range of performance upgrades, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.

BANG SHIFT PERFORMANCE SHIFTERS

By Aeroflow Bang Shift shifters have been designed for street machines, customs and racecars for street or race use.

Aeroflow explains they feature a right-hand illuminated shift display and suit two, three and four speed transmissions. There are currently four models available in black or brushed aluminium finish.

The Bullet, Nitro and Pistol shifters are full ratchet shifters with a positive ratchet design that self-centers the handle in the middle of the shifter so all the user has to do is click once up or click once down for each gear.

Aeroflow says this self-centered design allows maximum clearance for tight fitting consoles in all vehicle applications.

The Attack shifters are a gated shifter that features reverse lockout.

All shifters include two micro-switches for reverse lights and a neutral safety switch. A range of billet gear knobs and handles with buttons is also available.

Included with the shifter kit are a five-foot long race shifter cable, all necessary hardware, detailed instructions, cable brackets and transmission shifter levers to suit various three and four-speed automatic transmissions.

Two speed application kits are sold separately.

For more information, to locate your nearest distributor or to shop online, visit www.aeroflowperformance.com or call 02 8825 1900.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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PRODUCTS

SNAP-ON RELEASES CLASSIC STARTER KIT Snap-on says the new 282-piece kit is ideal for apprentices Snap-on says it is excited to release its new 282piece Classic Starter Kit, an entry-level offering to suit apprentices and those new to the automotive industry who are building their tool set.

The 282-piece Classic Starter Kit comes with all the tools required and is housed within the everpopular Snap-on 54” Classic Roll Cab. The Classic Rollcab is made in the USA using top quality materials and the 282-piece tool set includes a range of must-have tools that will serve both beginner and skilled technicians alike.

Snap-on says this starter kit provides quality and quantity of tools to cover off on the range of work that technicians will be completing in the early years of their career.

In addition to the tool control foam in the drawers, that have been used to organise the collection of hand tools; a new addition for the kit is two power tool foam drawers that include the most popular Snap-on 14.4v and 18v power tools from each range.

With an unprecedented number of tools and the ability to choose from red, blue, and black roll

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cabs, this allows mechanics to customise their kit and stand out from the crowd in their workplace.

Snap-on brand Ambassador Jake ‘Drift Squid’ Jones has recently taken delivery of his Snap-on 282-piece Classic Starter Kit and has been impressed with the variety of tools provided, which have served as an ideal starting point for the work he is completing on his RB M3 drift car.

“This kit comes with the basics that allow you to pretty well rebuild an entire car. Not only does the kit allow me to maintain the RBM3 and Sonvia drift cars, it allows it to be done quicker than before,” Jake said.

“All the tools are neatly organised and in one spot and with the 54” classic roll cab being on wheels I can have it right next to either car.”

Jake’s incredible RB M3 often returns from drift events requiring a host of repairs and adjustments before it is ready to hit the track again. Snap-on says the 282-piece Classic Starter Kit allows Jake to perform work on his car in his workshop or at the track.

“The starter kit will allow the job of prepping the

car before an event to be quicker. I can then roll the cab straight into my enclosed trailer and head to the racetrack. It’s a game changer for me,” Jake said.

“Snap-on has a reputation of manufacturing the best tools in the world. It is unreal to be working with Snap-on. Like any journey, the starter kit is the beginning of what will be an amazing tool collection that never ends.”

The Snap-on 282-piece Classic Starter Kit is available now.

For more information, including a full listing of the tools included in the kit, please contact your local Snap-on franchisee or visit www.snapontools.com.au

PRODUCTS

AEROFLOW LAUNCHES NEW CATALOGUE The performance brand has also debuted a new website Aeroflow has been developing performance products for Australia and around the rest of the world for over 10 years and says it is proud to “welcome you to the latest evolution of Aeroflow” with the launch of its latest catalogue.

The 2021 Aeroflow catalogue is its 12th edition and features all of Aeroflow’s latest products, spanning all areas of street and race performance.

The catalogue boasts 435 pages filled with

product photos and information to help you find the right product for your build. Fast indexes have also been designed to help you get to products fast, making it a very valuable tool for the garage and workshop.

To coincide with this new release, Aeroflow says it is also proud to debut its brand-new website.

The website has been totally rebuilt to be “faster, easier and more powerful,” with Aeroflow stating this translates to a much more pleasurable online shopping experience for customers.

New drop-down category menus have been designed to make it quicker and easier to navigate to products while a powerful search engine reportedly provides comprehensive search results.

New Products, Specials and Featured Products sections keep customers informed of all the latest and greatest products with access to catalogues and You Tube instruction videos. Product

technical information and instruction files are also available for download.

Aeroflow says the heart of its new website is the enhanced online shopping experience with multiple quality product photos, better descriptions, drawings, technical information, and shipping calculators to make it simple and pain free to shop online.

To see the new website and order your new Aeroflow catalogue, visit www.aeroflowperformance.com

CTEK’S PRO25S Ctek says it offers the best battery management solutions Ctek, a leading global brand in the care and maintenance of vehicle batteries, has identified in its research that as many as 50 percent of vehicles arriving in the workshop have a battery that is either undercharged or needs replacing.

“Whether a vehicle is booked into the workshop for a service, repair or even tyre replacement, it’s worth remembering the demands that complex vehicle technologies are placing on workshops,” Ctek Asia Pacific Director of Sales and Marketing, Robert Briggs, said.

“Whatever work is being carried out on the vehicle, battery support is a vital activity often not fully appreciated for its importance in saving technician time and ensuring against costly programming failures, while also preventing possible costly damage to the battery or the vehicle Engine Control Unit (ECU).”

In a lead acid battery, state of charge gradually reduces, as does voltage, whereas in a lithium battery voltage remains high even when battery state of charge is low – at 30 percent state of charge a lithium battery can still have a reading of around 12.6V. Once battery state of charge hits 20 percent however, voltage reduces rapidly.

The two battery types perform very differently, so Ctek says it is vital to ensure they are always supported.

With lithium batteries, battery support will also

protect against damage to the battery due to low voltage. Lithium Battery Management Systems have a cut-out voltage anywhere between 2.0V-2.8V per cell that will prevent the battery from discharging any further.

Ctek says it is expected to see drains on the battery during a vehicle service reducing SOC by up to 10 percent, so a battery can drain very quickly – interrupting work being undertaken and risking the battery cutting out and going into ‘sleep-mode.’

Ctek says its PRO25S is an innovative, versatile and highly efficient 25A battery charger with a dedicated 13.6V SUPPLY mode that can be used with both lithium and lead-acid batteries.

When considering battery support, Ctek says it is important to not only consider voltage and number of Amps, but also your battery support unit’s ability to react to spikes in power demand.

It says the PRO25S is a ‘smart’ battery charger

and power supply, so it is constantly talking to the battery and listening to its needs, reacting to vehicle demands to maintain voltage, protecting the battery and the sensitive vehicle electronics.

The PRO25S also has a dedicated Lithium mode, with a specially developed Lithium charging algorithm. Ctek says it is also very simple to connect, spark proof, and reverse- polarity protected to protect the user and also the battery.

It has been designed to ensure easy handling in the workshop, and so is lightweight and portable.

Further, a rugged, impact-resistant casing means the PRO25S can also handle the toughest environment and it also comes with a two-year warranty.

The Ctek PRO25S starts from AU $600 RRP, and is available to purchase from Repco stores, nationwide.

For more information, visit www.ctek.com/au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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PRODUCTS

DAYCO TIMING BELT IN OIL (BIO) SYSTEM Setting a positive trend Dayco’s Timing Belt in Oil (BIO) system is a technology breakthrough by the global automotive component innovators which Dayco says is attracting more OEM attention worldwide.

This new low-wear and eco-friendly technology is now available in the 1.0 litre three-cylinder Ford Ecoboost engine that won International Engine of the Year in 2012. The engine is considered one of the most economical and compact units in its class.

Dayco’s significant investment in research and development has resulted in various new technologies for more efficient internal combustion engines to meet the demands expected from vehicle manufacturers and modern motorists alike.

Dayco says the advantages of its timing belt in oil system compared to the conventional belt drive belt are numerous, including reduced wear, improved quietness and above all less friction losses, ensuring the engine is quieter and more efficient.

Compared to a timing chain, Dayco says these are

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significant advantages because the application saves on both cost and weight, which in turn leads to more fuel efficiency and less noise in operation.

“We think the belt in an oil bath provides the best of two worlds. On the one hand the longevity of a timing chain and on the other hand, the smoothness and reduced friction of a timing belt”, Ford Powertrain Development Manager, Andrew Fraser, said of the advantages of the Dayco BIO system.

The Ford Motor Company selected the Dayco BIO system for an innovation award when it was introduced. It is also interesting to note that the new 1.0 Litre Ford Ecoboost engine also includes another world first by Dayco, the first idler which runs in an oil bath.

Dayco explains that combined with what it refers to as a “Synergetic” design, the whole Dayco BIO transmission system, that is, engine belt, guides, tensioners, idlers and pulleys, have been combined to deliver optimum performance, extreme reliability and increased fuel economy.

Along with Ford, the Dayco BIO system has also been selected as original equipment for Audi and Volkswagen vehicles with Dayco stating that demand for this ultra-efficient engine component technology is continuing to grow.

Dayco Australia says it is pleased to offer this patented and innovative BIO System technology to the Australian automotive aftermarket for scheduled replacement on Audi, Ford and Volkswagen vehicles that have been fitted with the Dayco BIO System as Original Equipment.

For further information or technical assistance, contact Dayco Australia Customer Service on 03 9794 4466 or visit www.dayco.com

MEMBER FEATURE

ALL PART OF A BIGGER PICTURE With more than 80 members, Parts4 is one of Australia’s largest chain of independent automotive parts retailers.

The Parts4 story starts back in the early 2000s when a small group of ten independent automotive parts store owners met to discuss joining forces to improve their buying power and fend off the increasing pressure from the industry’s giants.

“It was in that meeting that the seed for what we know today as Parts4 was planted,” Parts4 Automotive Business Development Manager, Kim Mamourey, said.

“Those ten foundation members were visionaries.

Today Parts4 has more than 80 members across Australia, and we’re still growing fast.”

In the early days, the Parts4 member acquisition program was pretty basic and relied heavily on word-of-mouth. But as the group’s numbers swelled and their offer was refined, they took the leap and bought Kim on-board.

“Right around the time I started with the group the big guys were trying to swallow up automotive stores and dominate the market,” Kim explained.

“But our members are fiercely independent and pushed back as they want to make their own decisions, control their destinies, and be more than just obedient servants to massive corporate machines.”

Kim brought a wealth of automotive experience to Parts4, and his appointment signalled a new era for the group.

“There is power in numbers, and I was tasked with building out our member offer and growing the group,” said Kim. “While I was confident, the growth we have achieved has exceeded my expectations, but I still feel the best is yet to come.”

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Kim says the Parts4 model is attractive and he has big plans in place for future growth. He explains it allows members to purchase stock at extremely competitive pricing, provides them access to marketing and promotional activities, and above all, helps secure their future in this extremely competitive industry.

“We’re not there to profit from our members.

We’re here to help members to compete out in the marketplace,” Kim said.

“More and more independents are realising that they need to be part of some sort of group so that they can survive. And that is the benefit of joining Parts4, because they belong to a group but then still have control over their business.

“We work with a common goal of trying to make sure that the independents can stay strong in the marketplace,” he added.

There is little doubt that Kim has put in some hard yards since joining the group; knocking on doors around Australia to let store owners know there is a group for independents they can join, but which won’t dictate to them.

“When we tell people what we can offer them as an independent, it’s pretty hard for them to say no,” said Kim. “If I had a dollar for every time someone told me that it sounds too good to be true, I’d be retired because there is no catch in what we offer. We’re owned by our members and run for our members.”

Kim has set some aggressive growth targets, and his plan is to exceed 100 members in 2022.

“Our offer is compelling. I believe we are nearing

the end of the consolidation strategy that the larger players have used to fight for market share in the recent past,” Kim explained.

“Last year, I completed a fact-finding trip to the US during which I spoke to a variety of different automotive companies to get a feel as to what we might experience in Australia over the next three to five years.

“I found that we’re really not that different to the US. We’re just on a lot smaller scale. They went through the process earlier on that they had their consolidation, and we had ours later on.

“Still, I was excited to discover that independents continued to thrive in what is considered the world’s most competitive aftermarket industry.”

When quizzed on the future of the Australian car parc’s changing dynamics, Kim provided some fascinating insights.

“The biggest challenge I see facing the entire industry in the next decade is the growth in popularity of electric vehicles,” said Kim. “They are coming, but while we see more and

MEMBER FEATURE

more on the road every day, in reality, they only account for a tiny percentage of total new car sales.

“And we know from our experience that when vehicle manufacturers invest in new technology, it takes quite a long time for it to affect the aftermarket.

“Stop-start batteries are a great example. While this technology has been a feature in new vehicles for many years, we are only just now starting to see a demand for them in our stores.”

When comparing the Parts4 business model to the larger players in the industry, Kim drew an interesting comparison.

“Parts4 is like a 40ft Cruiser while the larger corporates are more like cruise liners,” Kim described.

“We’re much more agile as a group, and this allows us to pivot quickly to take advantage of new opportunities and react quickly to changing market conditions while the big guys struggle to shift from their plotted course.”

A critical ingredient to the success of Parts4 is its robust supplier relationships.

“We’ve got a great relationship with our suppliers.

We work closely with them and meet regularly to look at the trends. Then we overlay these learnings with the valuable information provided

by AAAA to build our forward plans,” said Kim. “We value our AAAA membership highly because they have a global perspective that we’d miss without their assistance.”

Due to the nature of the Parts4 business and their commitment to independence, no two stores are alike. Still, all have an unwavering commitment to delivering the highest levels of customer service.

“Traditionally, our members stock products like filters, brakes, oil, cooling components, undercar parts, lighting, transmission, those sorts of things, mixed in with a small range of accessories.

So, we sit between how you’d consider a normal Burson and Repco store would look,” Kim said.

“If you need the right advice and the correct parts

to fix your vehicle, we’ll have them. The majority of our members are ex-mechanics, and all are car enthusiasts with excellent knowledge that they can share with their customers.”

As a result of their extremely strong relationships with suppliers and the ‘family’ culture they have nurtured, Kim says Parts4 members are willing to chase those hard-to-get-at parts for you that a lot of the big stores aren’t interested in sourcing.

“If a member receives an enquiry for a part and is having trouble sourcing it, many will just call another member for advice. While all our stores are independent, we have fostered a culture that ensures our members work together to deliver exceptional outcomes for customers,” said Kim. Taking a closer look at the Parts4 member profile reveals their trade focus.

“I’d say that if you averaged it out across our 80 stores, you’d find that we are about 70 percent trade and 30 percent DIY,” Kim described.

“But it doesn’t matter who walks through the door – every one of our customers receives the same level of attention and expertise.

“That’s why our customers keep coming back.”

Kim believes that the future is bright for the automotive aftermarket and that the time is right for business-minded people to consider entering the market.

“The automotive aftermarket is strong, and it’s going to continue to be strong for many years,” Kim said.

“The beauty of the Parts4 model is that it can be adapted to someone that’s wanting to get into a new business or for owners running any existing auto parts store.

“Because we don’t dictate to our members, we encourage them to use the preferred suppliers that we have on board.

“While we don’t mandate that they must purchase from our preferred suppliers, it is to their advantage if they do as we collect rebates from them and pay these back to our members twice a year.”

Kim said the ‘Parts4 family’ is very supportive and welcoming for new members.

“The Parts4 community quickly embraces new members, but more often than not, we call it the Parts4 family,” said Kim. “When you’ve got the support of 80 family members behind you, and even if you don’t have knowledge in the automotive industry, you’ll quickly discover that our members are willing to share their expertise to help any new member prosper.

“Our strength is our people, and as we continue to acquire new and committed members, our value grows,” he added.

For more information, visit www.parts4.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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OILS & LUBES

BACK ON THE ROAD Penrite is supporting Aussies as they hit the road this holiday season For nearly 100 years, Penrite Oil has been a trusted partner for the Australian automotive trade.

Penrite says that thanks to being a 100 percent Australian owned and operated business that produces the highest quality lubricant formulations, it has remained the go-to product for workshops and service centers for engine oils, gear oils, transmission fluids and other lubricants used in the automotive trade for nearly 10 decades, As more Australians than ever will hit the road this Christmas holiday season, Penrite says its Oils and Lubricants will be their trusted partner too, providing the highest levels of protection, performance, and economy for their vehicles.

For the workshops and service centers that prepare the vehicles for the great Australian road trip, Penrite says it offers them the peace of mind that comes from knowing they are using products which “were blended right here in Australia that meet the highest of manufacturing and industry

standards, including selected products with OEM approvals and/or industry licenses.”

Further, Penrite says they are reassured to know they are using products supplied by a company with nearly 100 years of experience – stating that no other Australian lubricant brand has that heritage of longevity and trust.

Over the last 10 decades, Penrite has continued to innovate and bring the latest specification products to the market, so it says its customers have the “Right Product for the Right Application.”

This doesn’t only apply to engine oils either, says Penrite, which explains that its commitment to providing members of the trade with all of the products they need to complete servicing requirements means they have an extensive range of products, including transmission and gear oils, brake, hydraulic and steering fluids, greases coolants, additives and cleaning fluids.

Being Australian made, owned, and operated,

Penrite says it is employing Australians to keep other Australians in business and employment.

As such, by using Penrite lubricants, it says workshops and service centers are contributing to the development of Australia and keeping money in the country to support other Australian businesses and people.

As Australians hit the road again and the country gets back on the road to recovery, Penrite says it will “continue to support the automotive trade with products to cover the oldest to the latest technologies with the service and support that only comes from a 100 percent Australian owned and operated business.”

For more information, visit www.penriteoil.com.au

RESPONSIVE DIESEL FUEL LUBRICANT AND CONDITIONER Common Rail Diesel vehicles need specifically designed fuel additives Most mechanically minded diesel vehicle owners have tried a variety of fuel additives, often purchased at service stations or automotive supermarkets.

And justifiably, there’s always been a lot of scepticism surrounding the use of fuel and oil additives because the sales pitch and advertising on these additives often makes claims that they simply don’t deliver on, leaving the vehicle owners disillusioned about their effectiveness.

Yet today, Responsive Engineering says Common Rail Diesels suffer more from fuel quality issues due to their precision, high performance engines, high fuel pressures and high operating temperatures than ever before.

Compared to older technology diesel fuel systems, Common Rail Diesels are totally unforgiving when it comes to any type of fuel contamination, explains Responsive Engineering, which explains very small amounts of water or particles will wreck pumps, injectors and throughout the whole fuel system. And, it says, they’re pretty much nonrepairable, so that means all new components.

Added to this, CRD engines have been developed to meet the modern emission standards, and diesel fuel sulphur has been reduced for the same reason. But low sulphur fuel happens to compound another problem: lubricity. At a time when pumps 52

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

and injectors rely even more on diesel fuel for lubrication, it has been actually reduced in the fuel, says Responsive Engineering.

Responsive Engineering says a fuel additive that will protect all these parts has never been more important, and states that it has developed and produced here in Australia a fuel additive specifically designed to keep Common Rail Diesels performing like new.

The Responsive Diesel Fuel Lubricant and Conditioner lubricates moving parts and provides anti-corrosion protection for diesel fuel pumps, injectors and all fuel system components.

This fuel lubricant and conditioner contains a powerful Nano formula that has been specifically designed for diesel engines, with a focus on Common Rail fuel systems which also has an anti-bacterial biocide in the formula to protect the whole fuel system.

Responsive Fuel Additive does not contain hygroscopic dispersants which Responsive Engineering says is often found in major brands of fuel lubricants. These dispersants don’t remove water from fuel, instead they just make it less visible and because it is still in the fuel it can flow past filters and water detection units where it causes catastrophic damage in diesel vehicles, warns Responsive Engineering.

Responsive Fuel Additive can reportedly quieten rattly injectors, reduce emissions, and improve fuel consumption and the overall performance of your vehicle.

Because it is a specialised product, it is only available from specialised diesel repairers or direct from the manufacturer – Responsive Engineering.

The bottle has been designed to fit into the door pocket so it’s always in the vehicle (not sitting in the garage at home) and the concentrated formula of 150ml will treat up to 2400 litres of fuel.

It is available from Responsive Engineering, located at 64 Kembla Street, Fyshwick in the ACT. For more information, call 02 6280 4334 or visit www.specialisttools.com.au

OILS & LUBES

JLM GDI INJECTOR CLEANER Engine technology does not stand still, so why should fuel additives?

With Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) posing new challenges to workshops, JLM Lubricants says it has risen to the challenge to support garages and car owners with its latest fuel additive, formulated solely to address GDI fuel injector problems.

While GDI engines boast impressive performance, efficiency and CO2 figures when the car is new, the benefits do not last forever. Tighter tolerances of the mechanical parts and higher soot/particulate production make GDI engines highly sensitive to contamination as they age.

The first issue many owners report is either an illuminated engine management light, reduced power, or excessive exhaust emissions that result in a roadworthiness inspection failure.

Rectifying the root-cause is not straightforward. As the fuel injectors are exposed to not only heat but also the by-products of the combustion process, contaminations become baked onto the injector tip, blocking its fine holes and altering the spray pattern. Sophisticated engine management will compensate for this injector fouling by adjusting

the fuelling automatically, but only to a point. The challenge is not only to address the symptoms and effect a cure but also curtail future build-up.

JLM Lubricants says its GDI fuel additive performs all of these tasks. It is suitable for all GDI, FSI, TSI, TFSI, CGI and SIGI engine types, providing excellent nozzle cleanliness while cleaning the inside of the GDI injector. It reduces emissions (PN, NOx and CO2) and is compatible with the Euro 6/ VI+ Exhaust Emissions Std. GCG Turbochargers is the exclusive Australian and NZ distributor of JLM Lubricants.

“We are confident that JLM Lubricants GDI Injector cleaner is the finest on the market, but we admit that it cannot resolve all contamination issues in modern engines,” GCG Turbochargers Operations Manager, Paul Franks, said.

“Deposits that restrict low tension piston ring movement are best addressed with JLM’s Engine Oil Flush at every service, to restore the resultant lost compression.

“While more complete combustion has the

additional benefit of reducing inlet deposits, JLM’s GDI Injector Cleaner cannot clean clogged intake manifolds, EGR valves and cylinder head ports. For this, JLM recommends its Air Intake Cleaner both as a cleaner and a preventative measure at service time.

“With the new GDI petrol injector cleaner joining forces with JLM’s existing Engine Oil Flush and Air Intake Cleaner products, JLM Lubricants allows workshops to offer the complete GDI decontamination cure to benefit the motorist, their cars and, of course, the environment.”

For more information, visit www.gcg.com.au

NEGLECTED YOUR CAR MAINTENANCE? Burg Design says its not too late Burg Design says its X-1R products can help you take care of your vehicle to keep it running smoothly for longer, even when it has been neglected.

The products have reportedly been tested and proven by independent labs and by a company which supplies NASA. Products include: • X-1R Engine Oil Based Flush – contains controlled-released detergents to dissolve sludge, gum, varnish, grit and other deposits that, even with regular maintenance, slowly build up inside the engine. Usually, you need only pour it into your crankcase and let the engine run for 15 minutes before draining it.

• X-1R Engine Treatment – formulated to reduce friction and operating temperatures, thus optimising engine performance.

• Fuel System Cleaner – cleans the entire fuel delivery system and combustion chamber for an overall more efficient combustion process, with effect most often immediate.

• X-1R Automatic Transmission Treatment – works by reducing the transmission’s operating temperatures, resulting in smoother shifting, and longer transmission fluid and gearbox life.

As testament to the might of these products, Burg Design offers up the recent customer case of Terry Russ, the owner of a 2003 Subaru Outback H6 3L automatic.

Terry had owned the Outback for around 12 years and admitted that the car — which had over 270,000 kilometres clocked on the odometer,

half of them in town and half on the highway — had not been looked after.

Burg Design says that while you could be forgiven for thinking the Outback’s engine would be a goner at that stage, Terry was able to treat his car with the above products for great results.

“The oil and filter had probably been changed maybe three times (I had to use a piece of pipe on the sump plug spanner to crack it), and the engine warning light had been on for about five years,” Terry explained.

“Over the 200 kilometres since (treatment with X-1R products), it has only gotten better,” Terry said.

“My son, who is the normal driver, is seriously impressed. My son is a Chemical Engineer and is also very impressed by the several studies that he has researched on benefits of X-1R .

“I am more than happy to recommend the X-1R products for everyday use and will be treating my other vehicles shortly.”

For more information, visit www.x1r.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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OILS & LUBES

GULF WESTERN OILS Made in Australia, exported to the world Gulf Western Oil says it is a proudly Australian owned manufacturer of lubricants for supply into the Australian and export markets.

and strategically located warehouses and a distributor network allowing for reliable and timely supply throughout Australia.

The company says its lubricants are produced in its ultra-modern, technically advanced production facility in Sydney using only the highest quality components from the world’s leading suppliers of base oils and additive technology; with formulations that are tailor made to meet Australia’s harsh conditions.

Gulf Western Oil has been manufacturing for more than 30 years, supplying the Australian market and exporting to more than 20 countries around the world.

Gulf Western’s national distributors and retail partners are supported by five company owned

During 2020, Gulf Western opened a distribution hub in Asia allowing for further expansion into new locations to grow its distributor footprint into new markets within the Philippines, Myanmar, Korea and Russia.

For many years, Gulf Western has supplied product into New Zealand, China, Vietnam, New Guinea, India and throughout the Asia Pacific.

Gulf Western says its technical team works in conjunction with its local and overseas customers and its additive suppliers to ensure that it is at the forefront of new formulation technology that meets the local climatic conditions and specific OEM requirements.

For more than three decades, Gulf Western Oil says it has proven to be a reliable supplier of high quality, Australian made and Internationally approved lubricants to the industry.

In these uncertain and trying times, Gulf Western says its proven reliability of high quality locally manufactured lubricants with local technical support is more important than ever to ensure reliable operation of your equipment.

In addition, Gulf Western has invested in a new virtual tour program that allows complete access to its state-of-the-art manufacturing facility. It says this allows you the opportunity to walk through and see how the production of lubricants happens.

For more information or to take a Virtual Tour, visit www.gulfwestern.com.au

WHY CHANGING BRAKE FLUID IS SO IMPORTANT ZF Aftermarket experts recommend regular inspections and a yearly fluid change High-quality brake fluid is crucial in ensuring continued stopping power, with ZF Services Australia recommending workshops regularly remind customers to have their brake fluid checked, with yearly changes advised.

Brake fluid plays a vital role in ensuring the smooth operation of the braking system, and like all lubricants, the oil degrades over time, regardless of mileage.

Deteriorated brake fluid can impact on the operation of the various components in the braking system, which in a worst case scenario could lead to brake failure.

ZF Aftermarket experts have produced the below helpful tips on how to check the condition of brake fluid, quickly and reliably. Armed with this knowledge, ZF says workshops can offer customers a wider range of services, and improve the safety of their cars.

Severe overheating can lead to total failure Hydraulic fluid resides in the lines, tubes and reservoirs of the brake system in various configurations of disc and drum brakes, transmitting pressure whenever the brake pedal is engaged, with additional power provided by brake boosters.

There are various influences that can greatly affect the liquid over time, including severe overheating, 56

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

which can occur with prolonged engagement over extended gradients, in turn causing the fluid to boil. This can then lead to an evaporative reaction, and the formation of air bubbles.

When the brake pedal is pressed again, the bubbles are compressed, but the braking force may be lessened or not transmitted at all, ultimately leading to brake failure.

Another common fault found in braking systems is the ingress of water, with the entry point often being the breather hole in the cover of the tank, which is designed to provide ventilation in the event of fluctuating brake fluid levels.

However, atmospheric humidity can also enter the system via this ventilation hole. Additionally, water can make its way into the overrun tank through the ventilation hole when the engine bay or vehicle is cleaned.

Brake hoses and sealing elements can also be responsible for increased water levels in the brake fluid, as water can diffuse through these parts, especially when they age.

Venting device for reliable repair results On average, brake fluids have a water content level of around 0.05 percent, with the value typically trending upwards over time.

If the water content level exceeds 3.5 percent,

it is strongly recommended that the fluid be changed, as the wet boiling point has been reached. When the three percent mark is exceeded, the boiling point of the fluid drops to between 140 and 180°C. ZF says it offers a range of specialist tools for brake fluid changes, as well as the broad portfolio of TRW brake fluids, which are suitable for most vehicle types.

TRW brake fluids reportedly ensure optimal braking behaviour from -50°C to +50°C, with enhanced protection against corrosion, and compatibility with the sensor systems installed in late model cars, such as ESP. For more information, visit www.trwaftermarket.com or contact ZF Aftermarket via 02 9679 5555.

OILS & LUBES

PASSIONATE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS? Then Liqui Moly says you should choose its products German oil brand Liqui Moly is well known to mechanics and the brand says it is now looking forward to being even more active across the Australian automotive and workshop scene.

Following its entry into the Australian market this month, the local team for Liqui Moly says they are aiming to boost investment in the brand and provide more products which customers and car enthusiasts love and trust.

Prior to the launch of Liqui Moly Australia, Liqui Moly products were distributed locally through the company’s exclusive import partner, MotorActive.

MotorActive, being a multi-brand importer, distributor and marketer, partnered with Liqui Moly for a number of years to grow selection and establish supply of Liqui Moly in Australia.

“However, based on our customer’s feedback we realised that we outgrew this structure and needed to do more ourselves,” Liqui Moly Australia Managing Director, Mark Johnson, said.

“Giving workshops exactly what they want and need is our aim, both in terms of accessing our extensive product catalogue and receiving Liqui Moly specific expert-level customer service.

This is what prompted our expansion and direct investment in Australia.

“We pride ourselves in only selling premium – being able to offer the right oil for practically every car. Our specialty is being able to supply a complete range of oils for late model European vehicles.

“We now look forward to soon making many of our 4,000 products locally available.

“Along with a wide variety of newly formulated motor oils and additives, we also have a vast range of automotive chemicals, like service products, such as brake cleaner; car care products, polishes; greases, pastes; and underbody protection.

“You can continue to order Liqui Moly through our partner network for supply same day. Well known spare parts resellers HSY and Imparts carry a large selection of Liqui Moly products, along with a wide selection of complementary high-quality spares and premium brands.

“We also provide advice on oils and additives to workshops which service late model European vehicles, supporting independent workshops with the latest technical and application insights and information.

“Liqui Moly is well known as a family owned business and Germany’s most popular motor oil.

Aussies are well known to question and demand quality.

“Liqui Moly ensures all markets receive the same Made in Germany product that our home market receives. We do this by developing and producing our entire range in Germany.”

For more information, call Liqui Moly Australia on 1300 318 961.

OIL BARREL-SHAPED MONEY BOXES IQ Merchandising say these are a great promotional idea at only $6.00 a tin IQ Merchandising has a range of licensed branded and generic products imported from Germany that can be used for either on-sale purposes or as a promotional tool for your brand.

With the focus in this month’s magazine being on oils and lubes, IQ Merchandising says it is an appropriate time to highlight to you its very popular oil barrel-shaped tins that can be used as either a money box for your loose coins or as a handy desk-top container for pens and markers.

It says its German supplier’s retro-inspired designs are proving very popular, not just in the current environment but as demand for nostalgic products in general increases around the world.

The money boxes are available off-the-shelf in various licensed designs including HarleyDavidson, BMW, Volkswagen and Moto-Guzzi for $7.00 each. There is also a generic US Oil Co company design.

Alternatively, IQ Merchandising says it can get these functional tins made up in your logo and design for $6.00 each plus GST with a minimum quantity run of 1000.

The tins measure 12cm high and 9.5cm in diameter and so are a perfect size “no matter what the use.”

The lid is removeable so they can be used over and over again as a money box, or you can take the lid off and use it as an open container.

IQ Merchandising says these money boxes are a great way to have your brand constantly in front of your customers, sitting on their desks or in the workshop.

It says its supplier manufactures licensed merchandise for leading global brands including Harley-Davidson, Ford, Mercedes-Benz, Goodyear, BMW, Volkswagen, Audi, Vespa, Fiat, Moto Guzzi, Mini and Coca-Cola.

It says you can be assured that your branded product would be made to the same exacting standards that these companies demand.

IQ Merchandising offers a range of retro-inspired products including not only money boxes but also tin signs, thermometers, clocks, storage tins, mint tins, ceramic and enamel mugs, metal

coasters, keyrings and magnets – all of which are available to be manufactured in your company branding.

For more information, call Jim from IQ Merchandising on 0488 068 286 or visit www.iqmerchandising.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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OILS & LUBES

API SP AND ILSAC GF-6 What’s the big deal?

Valvoline says stricter emission and economy regulations around the world have driven leading car manufacturers to introduce newer, more powerful and more efficient engines; Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Turbocharged Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI).

These engines need a higher specification engine oil in order to protect them from “Low Speed PreIgnition” or LSPI. Valvoline explains that in simple terms, LSPI is early combustion in the engine which can lead to catastrophic engine failure. Preventing LSPI requires improvements in engine lubrication chemistry.

It is all about efficiency In order to meet emission and fuel economy regulations, vehicle manufacturers have made a number of changes to their engine designs.

These include downsizing, introducing gasoline direct injection (GDI), turbocharging and gasoline particulate filters (GPF).

Most new passenger cars and light commercials from leading vehicle manufacturers come with these new generation engines. The needs of these engines are different and require higherperformance engine oils that aid in fuel economy, provide emission system compatibility, protect against low speed pre-ignition (LSPI) and aid cleanliness by fighting turbocharger deposits.

Protect your vehicle Vehicle owners have an expectation that the engine oil used will protect their car engine and meet its lubrication requirements. However, Valvoline says it is important to note that older oil specifications such as API SN/ILSAC GF-5 and earlier will not meet all the performance needs of these modern engines.

While ILSAC GF-5 addresses fuel economy and deposit control, for these modern engines, LSPI

protection is also required. Engine oil needs to deliver on all three of these important performance characteristics.

Valvoline explains that LSPI is an abnormal, uncontrolled combustion event that can occur in modern Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) engines.

At a minimum, LSPI can generate an audible knocking noise noticeable to the driver and prevent the engine from operating at optimum efficiency.

More severe LSPI can cause engine hardware failure, including damaged spark plugs, pistons and even catastrophic engine failure, leading to user disruption and high vehicle repair costs.

Valvoline says that usage of older generation engine oils (API SN/ILSAC GF-5) in such modern engines can lead to catastrophic engine damage.

Industry bodies have recognised this and have launched the ILSAC GF-6, a new specification which is designed specifically to protect modern engines.

To demonstrate the difference, a field trial was conducted in two identical cars – both having modern gasoline engines. One car was filled with older generation engine oil and other with ILSAC GF-6 oil. A comparison of their pistons (pictured below) clearly showed the impact the wrong engine oil can have on engine components.

Valvoline says it is ready

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

Chart Two

economy, LSPI, chain wear, sludge and varnish, oxidation and deposits, wear and corrosion limits.

Chart one shows the benefits vehicle owners can expect over earlier generation GF-5 oils.

A step-up in quality

Similar to the ILSAC GF-6 changes, Valvoline says its engine oils with API SP will be a significant boost in performance characteristics. These have been reformulated to pass stringent engine tests for LSPI, chain wear, sludge and varnish formation, oxidation and deposits, wear and corrosion limits.

Chart two explains the benefits vehicle owners can expect over earlier generation API oils.

Valvoline engine oils with ILSAC GF-6, will see a significant boost in performance characteristics; reformulated to pass stringent engine tests for fuel

For more information on Valvoline engine oils, or to place an order, contact Valvoline Customer Service on 1800 458 237 or its Technical Hotline on 1800 804 658.

Valvoline says its products with ILSAC GF-6 specifications have been available to the market since the first license date in May 2020. In November, Valvoline also upgraded numerous engine oils to API SP to ensure its customers benefit from the latest industry specifications.

Pistons remained protected with Valvoline ILSAC GF-6 & API SP Engine Oil.

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Chart One

Damaged piston of car running of older generation oil. The trial had to end abruptly.

OILS & LUBES

UAP: NOT JUST PARTS Unique Auto Parts is the only Australian stockiest for Carlube In addition to supplying top quality new parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche and Volvo, Unique Auto Parts says it is the only Australian stockist of high quality lubricants and fluids from Carlube.

While Carlube has recently changed its packaging, Unique Auto Parts says the products are still the same great OEM quality consumables that were introduced to the Australian market by the Unique Auto Parts business.

Unique Auto Parts says Carlube oils are not only recommended for all modern vehicles but also have a specific focus on European makes and come with approval from some of the world’s

leading car manufacturers such as Mercedes Benz, Renault, Volvo and many others.

All Carlube oils not only meet the stringent requirements set forth by these car manufacturers, but in many cases surpass them, says Unique Auto Parts, which states they are also formulated for maximum fuel efficiency with added environmental benefits without compromising lubricant durability.

Unique Auto Parts stocks a wide range of Carlube Low Ash/Low SAPS oil – fully synthetic and semi synthetic oils that are suitable for a large variety of passenger and commercial vehicles.

The team also says it has all bases covered, with products available for all application areas such as engine, transmission, differential, power steering and brake systems. In stock are fuel system products, engine cleaners and windscreen fluid.

Recently Unique Auto Parts has also begun stocking larger quantities, with 20, 60 and 199 litre drums available, providing a convenient and cost-effective option. Oils are also available in one and five litre bottles.

Unique Auto Parts has five conveniently located

branches around Melbourne, Brisbane and Perth and the team says each is fully stocked with all these great products.

Delivery is available from each branch and freight is dispatched Australia wide daily using “the fastest and most efficient couriers.”

To be connected to your nearest Unique Auto Parts branch, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au for more information.

REDUCE VEHICLE RUNNING COSTS With Morey Oil products Morey Oil says its products have been designed to protect against engine wear, carbon build-up and high fuel cost.

Morey Oil says with a fuel system running cleaner, there will be less carbon that goes into the DPF filters, prolonging its life.

Untreated vehicles, whether that be in the fuel system or the lubricating oils throughout, can be subject to damage or higher running costs.

Morey Oil encourages you to keep your customer base happy with a complete service with Morey Oil products, helping reduce the cost of major breakdowns.

Morey Oil says servicing these vehicles with a high-quality product like its Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer will assist with a smoother running and a more efficient vehicle.

Morey’s Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer reportedly reduces friction wear, keeps the oil at its peak performance for longer, reduces oil burn and sludge build up, reduces heat, cleans bearings, rejuvenates seals and reduces noise.

It says this is also the case with using Morey’s Upper Cylinder Lubricant (in unleaded vehicles) and Diesel Smoke Killer (in diesel vehicles).

It states these fuel conditioners will help with removing the carbon build up in the fuel system, cleaning injectors, lubricating moving parts and maintaining a more efficient fuel burn.

Morey Oil says its HDOS, UCL and DSK are safe to use in vehicles either new or old, keeping new cars newer for longer and keeping the older vehicles running.

For diesel vehicles it states it is safe to use the HDOS, DSK and UCL, with no issues with common rail or DPF units.

However, Morey’s Upper Cylinder Lubricant is not suitable for use in vehicles running E85 fuel.

contamination has already penetrated the grease, or the grease has been displaced, the damage has already begun.

Morey Oil warns that grease contamination can be a very costly expense, that can be prevented.

Morey Oil says its BigFoot Fire Orange Grease will prevent this from happening, as thanks to the superior quality lithium complex greases’ very sticky/tacky nature, it will “stay in place” even in the toughest conditions of water, dirt or mud.

It explains that even if a vehicle has an underbody wash after four-wheel driving, if

For further information, please contact the Morey Oil Head Office on 1800 637 173 or visit www.moreyoil.com.au

Also available is Morey Oil BigFoot Fire Orange Grease for 4WDs.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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COOLDRIVE TO PARTNER WINNING LUBRICANTS Petronas engine lubricants are available from CoolDrive CoolDrive Auto Parts says it continues to stock race-winning lubricants, with the Syntium range from Petronas available through its branches and online.

Best known globally for its partnership with the all-conquering Mercedes-AMG Petronas Formula One team, Petronas produces a range of advanced engine and transmission lubricants and coolants used by the team in Grand Prix competition.

The 2020 Formula One season saw Petronas Fluid Technology Solutions power the MercedesAMG Petronas Formula One Team into the history books, claiming Formula One’s longest unbroken run as Constructors’ World Champions, thanks to Lewis Hamilton’s season victory.

and transfer excessive heat out of critical engine parts to ensure a trouble free drive.

Syntium lubricants all use Petronas’ trademarked CoolTech formulation. The Syntium with CoolTech lubricants are all uniquely formulated utilising the latest in proprietary base stocks and industry additive packages, and engineered with strong oil chains to effectively absorb heat

Petronas Syntium lubricants carry a wide range of manufacturer approvals including MercedesBenz, BMW, Porsche and the various Volkswagen group brands for passenger car and light commercial applications, and meet or exceed the latest API and ACEA classifications.

The Syntium lubricants are suitable for petrol and diesel powered vehicles, ensuring wide coverage of the Australian car market. Petronas engine lubricants are available from CoolDrive in 1 litre, 5 litre, 18 litre, 20 litre and 200 litre containers.

Further information is available at www.cooldrive.com.au or at CoolDrive branches nationally.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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OILS & LUBES

SHELL LAUNCHES E-FLUIDS For Electrified Commercial Vehicles Shell says the E-fluids portfolio improves reliability, efficiency and performance for all vehicles with electric powertrains.

Shell has expanded its globally available specialised fluids portfolio – Shell E-Fluids – to support battery electric (BEV) as well as fuel cell electric (FCEV) powertrains for commercial light-, medium- and heavy-duty vehicles.

Shell says it works with truck and bus manufacturers to co-engineer bespoke fluids that meet the specific needs of their different electric drivetrains for their commercial vehicle models.

Shell says this extension to its portfolio builds on the successful launch of the Shell E-Fluids range for passenger vehicles in May 2019.

With this expansion to the portfolio, manufacturers of all electric vehicles from passenger and van models to larger trucks and buses can now benefit from the extensive range of specialised Shell E-Fluids and E-Greases.

“Once added to the sealed environments of BEV or FCEV commercial vehicles, the fluids need

to perform at optimum levels over the vehicle’s lifetime; this is why first fill is so important for electric vehicles,” Shell Global Commercial Executive Vice President, Carlos Maurer, said.

“We have used Shell gas to liquid (GTL) base oil technology for the Shell E-fluids portfolio because its low viscosity properties allow for higher efficiency in the vehicle’s powertrain.

“Our lubricants research laboratories have focused on delivering cutting-edge fluid solutions to meet the specific electric drivetrain challenges of temperature control, oxidation, copper erosion and thermal conductivity.”

The Shell E-Fluids range for commercial vehicles consists of e-transmission fluids, e-greases and battery thermal fluids.

Shell states that to date, commercial vehicle manufacturers have had to predominantly rely on a range of fluids, which have been developed for internal combustion engines vehicles and do not deliver the necessary ultimate performance and efficiency for electric powered vehicles.

The commercial road transport sector, which delivers goods to shops and consumers’ homes as well as providing public transport, emits eight percent* of global energy related CO2.

Shell E-Fluids is one of the ways that Shell says it is partnering with the commercial vehicle sector to help deliver decarbonisation pathways.

For more information, visit www.vivaenergy.com.au * Eight percent includes trucks and buses: Source: IEA Tracking Transport 2019, IEA Energy Technology Perspectives 2017, IEA Future of Trucks

BRAKE PARTS LUBRICANT An essential part of brake servicing Specially engineered and formulated ceramic brake parts lubricant has become an essential part of brake servicing, avoiding wear on several mechanisms which scientists categorise as adhesive, abrasive, fretting and erosion.

rotor and often the suspension components.

When several components in the system go into resonant vibration together it can lead into brake noise and a strategy to avoid this is to isolate the pads from the caliper.

In a brake caliper, the brake pads move in their abutment slides not only when the brakes are applied but also when vibrations are transmitted from the road surface and drivetrain.

To overcome these many problems Bendix engineers say that have developed a specially formulated ceramic high performance synthetic lubricant called Ceramasil Brake Parts Lubricant which is available in a handy 255 gram tube with an extended nozzle, ideal for workshops working on a brake job.

According to leading Brake manufacturer Bendix, some wear is closely associated with corrosion where oxygen from the air reacts with metal to form oxides. This results in oxidisation forming and this is much harder than metal. When this is present the sliding interfaces can be abrasive causing rapid acceleration of the mechanical wear rate.

This can be microscopic in the early stages creating roughness on the sliding surfaces, becoming worse over time with wear on the slides increasing until the pads can no longer move freely. Pads that jam in the caliper can lead to a raft of brake problems including shudder, drag, rapid pad wear, noise levels and overheating.

Bendix also advises that the noise behaviour of a brake system is a complex interaction between all parts of the braking system, ie: the pads, caliper, 66

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

Whilst any grease will do the job in the short term, this specially formulated lubricant is designed to last the life of the brake job. It is designed to work in a range of temperatures from the coldest winter’s morning to searing temperatures generated under hard working braking conditions and not melt. Tested and proven under the worst undercar conditions where it is exposed to continuous jets of water, clouds of dust and road grime Bendix Ceramasil remains as a constant lubricant.

Application of Bendix Ceramasil between the back plate of the pad and the piston and fingers of the caliper is an effective way to isolate the pads and decouple a system resonance. Guide

pins of a sliding caliper require lubrication to operate correctly, allowing the caliper to centre over the rotor and adjust to accommodate wear on the pad.

Bendix recommends that with each brake service Ceramasil be applied to the caliper slide pins, the abutment slides of the caliper, between the back plate and the caliper fingers and the caliper bolt.

For more information free call the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas (8am - 5pm Monday to Friday EST), email brakeadvicecentre@bendix.com.au or visit www.bendix.com.au

ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

ADRAD EXTENDS ITS RANGE Delphi, Denso, Tridon and Valeo ignition coil products are now available from Adrad distributors Earlier this year, Adrad launched a collection of high-quality ignition coils, modules and coil packs. The range has recently been extended further and now includes parts from Delphi, Denso, Tridon and Valeo.

Backed by more than 100 years of collective ignition experience, Adrad says these test-proven products deliver reliability and long service life while being up to the task of meeting the demands of modern vehicles.

Over time, vibration and overheating will cause damage to ignition coils, leading to premature failure or reduced engine performance (rough/ uneven idling), excessive exhaust emissions and increased fuel consumption.

Good quality is essential to withstand high temperatures and voltage as well as comply with the fitment requirements found in modern engine designs.

With technology in vehicles continuing to evolve rapidly, Delphi and Valeo ignition coils are designed to suit compact engine space, adapt to tighter emissions regulations, deliver fuel economy and cope with higher voltage.

Delphi’s proprietary steel core design allows the wire winding to be directly applied to the core, while smart engineering processes have streamlined electrical pathways to the spark plug.

High quality components have also permitted steady voltage using controlled wire lengths and quality coating, to deliver optimal engine operation.

Delphi and Valeo have created a smaller compact design, resulting in fewer materials and tighter coupling to the electromagnetic circuit. The result of this efficient energy delivery is enhanced fuel efficiency and engine performance.

For more information contact Adrad on 1800 882 043.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

GOOD ENGINE MANAGEMENT The key to good engine management is the use of quality parts Since 1995, Unique Auto Parts says it has been offering affordable and quality solutions for the repair of European vehicles with a focus on new parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Volkswagen, Mini, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Volvo, Porsche, Seat, Skoda, Audi, Land Rover and Range Rover.

It says this includes parts for passenger and commercial vehicles and states that Unique Auto Parts representatives have travelled the world to source the best quality parts from leading aftermarket brands such as JP Group, Quinton Hazell, Meyle, Trucktec, Victor Reinz, Bosch and Hella.

Sensors are key in engine management and ensuring that cars are fitted with quality sensors which can be relied on is vital. Unique Auto Parts explains it has a large range of sensors and solenoids available, predominantly from wellknown quality brands Bosch and Hella.

Parts available include but are not limited to oxy sensors, crankshaft sensors, coolant temp sensors, oil pressure sensors, knock sensors, DPF sensors, exhaust temp sensors and camshaft variable solenoids.

In addition to sensors, Unique Auto Parts also stocks other vital components for good engine

management, including fuel injectors, air flow meters and idle speed actuators.

Unique Auto Parts states it also has an unbeatable range of service and replacement parts on offer, including brake components, steering and suspension parts, engine and transmission mounts, cooling systems, electrical and ignition components, oils and lubricants and a full range of filters. Ordering parts is quick and easy, you need only provide a VIN or registration number and it says its team can ensure the right parts are received every time.

With five fully stocked warehouses around Australia, Unique Auto Parts – a Capricorn preferred supplier – says it offers a premium delivery service using its own fleet of delivery vehicles and the fastest and most efficient couriers.

To be connected to your nearest Unique Auto Parts store, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au for more information.

DEFYING CORROSION With superior protection Prestone came to the market in 1927 with a solution to keeping engines at an optimal operating temperature, Ethylene Glycol, which was a non-flammable solution compared to the likes of alcohol which was used most commonly at the time.

Filpro Automotive says that unlike other alternatives, it did not boil away and kept engines from freezing in winter conditions, serving its purpose of keeping drivers on the road.

In 1930, Prestone began making the first inhibitor powerful enough to protect cooling systems from rust formation, which gave it a leading edge within its product range.

Now 90 years on, its antifreeze/coolant, with patented Cor-Guard inhibitors, is formulated to prevent corrosion; to help cooling systems run more efficiently; and extend engine life.

Prestone has reportedly continuously established long standing relationships with Original Equipment vehicle manufacturers over its 90year history.

Filpro says that in 1962, “Big Three” automakers

tuned in Prestone and installed ethylene glycol antifreeze solution in all new cars, making it a standard year-round performance fluid. Today, it says Prestone’s Original Equipment formulation is fitted at factories globally as first fill by leading manufacturers.

Prestone can reportedly be used in every passenger and light commercial vehicle on the market; as it is compatible and mixes safely with any coolant already in the system, without changing the colour or effectiveness of the existing coolant.

Filpro Automotive invites re-sellers nationwide to explore the Prestone range at www.filpro.com.au, or to contact its team for more information on 0400 878 837 or arossiter@filpro.com.au

ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

BEAT THE FLAT BATTERY BLUES With the ANBI Switch negative battery terminal isolator The ANBI Battery Switch eliminates drainage of stored power by isolating the battery. Digital Pulse Systems says installation is quick and easy and can be completed in less than 15 minutes.

Designed and manufactured in Australia to international automotive specifications, the ANBI Switch is said to be cost-effective, robust, easy to fit and perfect for even the most adventurous off-roader.

From the outset the goal was to develop an engagement system that would provide enough contact surface area to deliver the conductivity required for the battery to be fully operational when engaged and ensure that the battery was completely isolated when disengaged.

Digital Pulse Systems says that while this might sound like a simple task, many battery isolator switches fail to deliver on either one, or both, of these critical areas.

The ANBI Switch’s patented design incorporates a sliding bronze panel to overlap a fixed bronze panel within the switch housing by 3mm, to affect conductivity for the battery to be fully operational. This provides for 57.06 sq mm of contact.

To isolate the battery, the sliding panel is withdrawn to a 6mm stop. This provides a 3mm gap between the two contacts, thus eliminating contact that provides the isolation.

Prior to launch, the ANBI Switch was subjected to a rigorous testing regime to ensure it was fit for purpose, including Accelerated Life Tests, Resistivity Testing, Vibration Testing and testing required for International Automotive Quality Standards TS16949 and ISO14001, with Digital Pulse Systems stating the ANBI Switch exceeded the criteria for both International Standards and secured compliance.

Based on the test results and to protect its intellectual property, the team at Digital Pulse Systems applied for and secured Patents in Australia, India, Korea, China, Taiwan, Thailand, the Philippines and the United States of America.

Once the engineering team completed its final evaluation, the ANBI Switch was put into full production in preparation for launch.

Using the same patented engagement system design, the ANBI Switch is available in a range of application specific kits to suit a wide variety of vehicles including Cars, Boats, Trucks, Caravans and Camper Trailers, Jet Skis, Ride-on-mowers, Boats Motorcycles, Japanese Post Batteries and Agricultural equipment.

While most battery isolators require fitting by an auto-electrician due to the requirement of crimping and rewiring during installation, the development of these application specific kits, of which all contain a unique combination of fitting components, allows customers to quickly and easily fit the ANBI Battery Isolator to their vehicle with the most basic of tools.

Digital Pulse Systems says that even for the most inexperienced DIYer, installation will be completed in under 15 minutes.

For more information, visit www.anbiswitch.com.au or call 1800 290 812 for trade enquiries.

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ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

MOTORKOOL COOLING PRODUCTS Your cooling choice this summer This summer as your attention refocuses on what cooling solutions are right for your business, Auto Parts Group (APG) says it is high-time to put your suppliers ‘on-the hoist’ and give them the once over.

You need a solution with a total package; this includes range, stock on hand, warranty, a strong market presence and presentation.

But this year more than ever, you need a brand that is supporting your business at its core, delivering customers to your door.

APG says its MotorKool offering hits all of these key supplier criteria. And this year, while APG continually builds on the already expansive coverage of the core MotorKool product, (radiators, condensers, intercoolers, fans, receiver driers and oil coolers) the brand itself has undergone a refresh.

APG says this brand elevation has not stopped at the imagery, with a dedicated brand website developed and launched (www.motorkool.com.au).

Along with the usual product listings, the website

will allow customers to find informative cooling articles and learn about MotorKool’s two-year “No Fuss” Warranty, which it says is one of the best on the market.

Whilst the product warranty is a major selling point once the customer is in your door, APG says that MotorKool via its website also solves the problem of getting customers to you in the first place, with the ever-growing Authorised Partner listing map.

APG says “the Authorised Partner map is about providing that key visibility value for your business. For not only our Auto Parts stores (who have stock on hand themselves), but also our committed workshops.”

Given the seasonal appropriateness, the MotorKool website is also host to the MotorKool Summer 20/21 Free Flush Promotion.

“One of the main drivers of the promo this year is adding value to the purchase of a MotorKool radiator by having a mechanism to contact the customer twelve months after the radiator fitment,

to get their vehicle back to the workshop for the free flush, but also allowing the workshop another opportunity to complete a vehicle health check, ensuring that the customer’s vehicle is safe and roadworthy therefore expanding the workshop’s loyal customer base,” APG said.

APG says checking MotorKool off against the supplier evaluation shows value for your business across the board.

Furthermore, whilst it wouldn’t divulge details just yet, APG confirmed product range expansion plans are well underway for a 2021 launch.

To register your interest in becoming an Authorised Partner, visit www.motorkool.com.au

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ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

THINK GREEN, THINK NTK NTK says its expanded EGTS range helps reduce harmful emissions NTK says it is excited to announce the launch of 27 new part numbers, seriously bolstering its range of Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors (EGTS).

High quality, accurate and hardwearing Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors play a critical role in the performance of late model vehicles. They monitor the temperature of the exhaust gas, sending vital information back to the ECU to ensure that the exhaust gas cleaning components achieve optimal conversion rates.

“Modern exhaust after treatment systems require strict control in regard to efficiency and component protection,” NGK Spark Plugs Australia Senior Product Manager, James Filshie, said.

“EGTS monitor temperatures in a wide variety of components including turbochargers, catalytic converters, diesel particle filters and nitrogen oxide reduction systems.

“The information they capture is used to

maintain the optimal operating exhaust temperature and to protect against potential temperature overload.”

As the world’s largest Oxygen Sensor manufacturer, NTK says it has applied both its technical prowess and innovative manufacturing techniques to quickly expand its Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors range.

“We are proud to lead the way when it comes to manufacturing a variety of automotive sensors,” James said.

“Our range of Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors are designed to perform in the most extreme conditions, making them the only choice for fitment before turbochargers, the hottest and most demanding location for any EGTS.” In addition to protecting engine components, Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors are responsible for maintaining optimal engine performance. A faulty EGTS will not only compromise engine performance, but can also increase the volume

of harmful gasses a vehicle releases into the atmosphere.

“All NTK Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensors are manufactured as OE parts,” James said.

“Our Sensors use temperature resistant elements that cover a range from -40°C up to 900°C to deliver optimum performance across an extreme range of conditions.”

NTK says a close investigation of its Exhaust Gas Temperature Sensor range reveals that they also offer exceptional resistance to vibrations and fast activation, which when combined assists in lowering toxic emissions.

For more information, call NGK on 1300 55 40 59 or visit www.ngk.com.au

DAYCO WATER PUMP AND THERMOSTAT RANGE The company has a vast range available Dayco says its Water Pump Kits have been a reliable industry mainstay for years and now, that same Dayco quality is available in stand-alone replacement Dayco Water Pumps.

Dayco Water Pumps for passenger cars Dayco offers 353 passenger and commercial vehicle water pump part numbers, covering the vast majority of cars being driven on Australia’s roads.

Featuring upgraded materials for the bearing, impeller and gasket, Dayco Water Pumps are said to deliver exceptionally reliable performance, from vintage to the most recent makes and models.

From raw materials through the finished product, every aspect is validated by Dayco for quality assurance and are designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications.

Key features include: • TS16949 Quality Standard throughout casting, foundry, machining and assembly • 100 percent new aluminium cast material, no recycled materials • Case-hardened roller bearings with durable surfaces allowing flex without breaking • Single-piece, forged-steel pulley with no welds that can become weak spots • Improved impeller designs for better performance, durability and longer life 72

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

• Unitised seals for better durability and leak protection • 100 percent end-of-line leak tested All Dayco Water Pumps are warranted for a period of two years or 40,000km.

Dayco Heavy Duty Water Pumps Dayco says its Heavy Duty Water Pumps deliver exceptional reliability across a vast range of older or the most recent heavy duty makes and models.

The same quality assurance measures that Dayco applies to its passenger car water pump range also applies to the global company’s Heavy Duty Water Pump range, with all applications designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications.

Key features include: • TS16949 Quality Standard throughout casting, foundry, machining and assembly • Single-piece, forged-steel pulley with no welds • 100 percent end-of-line leak tested • Case-hardened roller bearings with durable surfaces allowing flex without breaking Dayco Heavy Duty Water Pumps are warranted for 18 months/150,000 km or 5,400 hours of operation – whichever occurs first.

Dayco Australia offers 102 heavy duty water pump part numbers, taking the total Dayco Water Pump aftermarket replacement coverage across both

heavy duty and passenger/commercial vehicles to 3,600 makes and models.

Dayco Thermostats Dayco explains that its Thermostats are designed to OEM specifications and are manufactured with a heat sensing wax filled copper power pill that detects the coolant temperature in the engine.

The Dayco Thermostat’s heat sensing power pill controls coolant flow from the radiator when the engine is cold to reach optimum operating temperature quickly. It then allows coolant to circulate through the engine when the operating temperature is reached to create the perfect temperature controlled engine environment.

Dayco Australia offers 256 passenger car thermostat part numbers covering 4,440 applications; and 20 Heavy Duty thermostat part numbers covering 648 applications.

To find out more contact your Dayco distributor, call Dayco Australia on 03 9796 4044 or visit www.dayco.com

ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

CONTROL YOUR COMFORT With over 250 parts in its A/C range, Tridon says it is here to keep your car cool in summer and warm in winter Tridon’s range of heater fan resistors and air conditioning pressure sensors have reportedly been extensively researched to give you maximum market coverage.

As such, Tridon says no longer do you need to go to the dealer to purchase high quality direct replacement air conditioning parts.

What is a heater fan resistor?

A heater fan resistor is designed to control the heater/air conditioner fan speed inside the vehicle. It operates by controlling the current flow to the fan motor and this in turn changes the speed of the fan.

Why do they need replacing?

Constant adjustments to the fan speed generate wear and tear on the terminals of the resistor. This can lead to shorting and in turn will lead to the resistor being “burnt out” and eventual failure. Common symptoms of a faulty heater fan resistor include: • Non-function on a particular speed • Constant running • Working at the same speed regardless of setting • Complete non-function

A/C systems. It is placed in-line with the cooling pipes and monitors the airconditioning system pressure.

If the pressure rises to dangerous levels or if there is a sudden drop in pressure, it will shut off the compressor. This prevents damage to internal air-conditioning components and also to the compressor.

These switches do require replacement over time as the air conditioning may cease to function or a vehicle fault light will appear.

Tridon says its range of A/C switches has been comprehensively researched to provide a broad coverage of high quality OEM replacement parts.

It says these have been developed to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer specifications, making them direct replacement for the original switches in the vehicle.

What is an air conditioning pressure switch?

Live application data is available for all Tridon parts on the Tridon Part Finder at www.tridon.com.au/partfinder for the most up to date new vehicle applications and part numbers. All applications are also available on all major trade electronic catalogues, says Tridon.

The air-con pressure switch is a safety device that is fitted to most modern

For more information, visit www.tridon.com.au or call 1300 362 263.

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ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

INJECTRONICS LAUNCHES NEW WEBSITE Automotive electronics and mechatronics are becoming increasingly difficult to diagnose, test, or repair Injectronics says it has found the need for information sharing paramount and with this goal top of mind, it has produced an innovative new tool for the automotive aftermarket.

After months of work, Injectronics’ new website will improve the flow and sharing of information between Injectronics and the customer, offering an improved customer experience and a streamlined process.

The new website allows all repairable products to be easily viewed; offers a “huge” host of technical information; is fully searchable; and delivers Tech support and live chat features. Using the site, customers can also register a unit for repair with just a few clicks.

Part repairs - REP (Repair) part numbers Whilst Injectronics’ part numbers with the REP suffix are not new to the website, Injectronics has added hundreds more, all of which can be promptly tested/ repaired for the customer. Each REP number on the website has a dedicated landing page providing essential information such as common faults; additional components required to repair the item; vehicle applications; component locations; OEM part numbers; and images.

Technical information Injectronics says its technical support team is regularly adding to its “huge” library of technical bulletins, providing answers to commonly asked questions as well as adding solutions to some not so common problems. All this information is available and searchable on the website and regular news articles and technical bulletins are also available straight to your inbox if you subscribe.

Search functions Users can search the catalogue by a specific part number or use the make, model, series search; or perform a whole site-search by keyword, phrase, or part number.

Online Repair Registration The most significant change to the website is the addition of the Online Repair Registration which allows the customer to register a product for testing or repair online in just a few clicks using a four-step process. The system will offer a list of common faults usually attributed to that specific part number which can then be selected with a click, if it is relevant to the vehicle in question. Prompts to send any additional components required is also a game changer, says Injectronics.

Technical Support Injectronics says its priority has always been technical assistance to the trade.

It still offers free expert assistance to customers and alongside the Injectronics website, tech support staff can offer tech advice, tips, wiring diagrams, programming procedures.

The tech department is available via email techsupport@injectronics.com.au, by phoning 1300 308 060 (AU) or 0800 536 547 (NZ), or you can live chat with a team member at www.injectronics.com.au For more information, visit www.injectronics.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS In this article, EVUp looks at battery management system (BMS) in electric vehicles, and how its role compares to that of an engine management system in helping the vehicle operate at its full potential A battery management system is similar to an engine management system in that it works by having a wide array of sensors all throughout the vehicle, enabling it to monitor and control the electrical output in the car.

The actual unit itself is usually a small circuit board with several controllers and inputs on it, and typically closely resembles an engine control unit in both appearance and size.

One of the most important features of a BMS is its ability to monitor the state of the battery, keeping tabs on many different characteristics such as the state of charge, temperature, current, voltage and the flow of coolant – all essential things to help keep an EV running smoothly.

Much like how an engine management system can control the engine to keep it healthy, a BMS is able to protect EVs from things like overcurrent and undervoltage. The BMS plays a critical role in keeping the

batteries of the car cool. Much like when an engine is running, EV batteries heat up through use; and by being able to monitor the temperature of the battery cells, the BMS is able to adjust the cooling system to keep the battery pack as close to its optimal temperature as possible.

Batteries are particularly sensitive to temperature, and as such, being able to keep them from overheating or from getting too cold has a significant impact on the overall driving range of the vehicle.

Additionally, the BMS helps to manage many EV-specific features such as regenerative braking and charging the vehicle.

As the vehicle slows down, the BMS is able to allocate power generated from the electric motor running in reverse back to the battery to increase driving range.

Moreover, the BMS has to negotiate with the onboard charger to manage the rate at which the

vehicle can be recharged and help to preserve the battery over the vehicle’s life.

While there may not be complex calculations about optimal fuel to oxygen ratios being performed during operation like there is in an engine management system, a battery management system plays a similarly significant role in communicating between all the different parts that come together to make an EV run.

For more information, visit www.evup.com.au or contact Emma Sutcliffe on emma@evup.com.au or 1300 EVUP 00.

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ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

AUTEL TPMS TOOLS From Interequip As TPM Systems age and internal sensor batteries fail, you will require a tool to diagnose faults and code new sensors with the added benefit of being able to diagnose remote key faults.

The tool for TPMS has become essential for modern workshops.

Interequip says Autel has a wide range of product solutions catering to workshops with different budgets for TPMS tools, from the budget colour screen TS508, to the TS608 with diagnostic functions, and the MX808TS to MS906TS – a proper professional scanner with TPMS function built-in.

MaxiTPMS TS508 Interequip says this hand-held tool is a one stop shop for the diagnosis and repair of TPM systems. The tool is charged up via a USB cable and AC adapter and the auto-off feature ensures prolonged battery life. It comes in a sturdy carry case with both a Quickstart guide and detailed manual with step-by-step, easy to follow screenshots and the required software. The TS508 is a start up tool that reads tyre pressure, tyre temperature and ID.

MaxiTPMS TS608 Interequip says the MaxiTPMS TS608 is a more comprehensive OBDII scan tool that not only reads TPM systems but also comes with diagnostic functions for live data, finding and clearing trouble codes.

MX808TS and MS906TS Interequip says the MX808TS is a hand-held tool that comes with quick service functions and coding TPM systems; while the MS906TS is a top of the range professional diagnostic scanner

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that not only does daily diagnostic jobs but also combines TPMS functions.

Autel also offers MX sensors that come with either 433 MHz or 315 MHz or universal dual frequency types of sensors with rubber or metal stem.

Interequip has been distributing Autel products since 2007. Interequip says it also imports quality vehicle lifts (Powerrex made in Korea), wheel service equipment (Italian made tyre changer, balancer, and aligners), AutoPro Up brake lathe and press, and AC refrigerant recharge systems.

For more information, please contact Interequip Pty Ltd on 18000EQUIP or visit www.interequip.com.au

ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

PICO AUTOMOTIVE SCOPE EV DIAGNOSTIC KIT Available from Mount Auto Equip Services, the exclusive Australian Pico Automotive importers Increasing EV deployment locally means that every workshop now must be prepared and aware of the increased need to handle their customers’ EV vehicle demands for repairs and general servicing requirements.

Mount Auto Equip Services says this growth affords all workshops guaranteed new income opportunities, especially if they undertake “the small investment required for the brand-new Pico Automotive EV Diagnostic Kit.” This brand-new Pico kit has been designed to provide the essential measurement tools and accessories for both high and low voltage systems on vehicles, including insulation testing and safety testing. It is based on the market-leading Pico Scope 4425A with Pico BNC+ technology and is supported by brand new Electric Vehicle Guided tests which are now included in the Pico Scope 7 Automotive software.

Mount Auto Equip Services says it is important to mention Pico has always supported constant free and ongoing automotive software updates for new systems and advanced tests as they evolve.

Most importantly, it says this is driven in direct response to feedback requests from customers and the majority of OEM manufacturers worldwide.

The Pico EV kit is designed to cover all vehicle types and powertrains and to provide workshops with a future proof system that covers vehicles with high-voltage batteries and motor systems.

The Pico Scope 4425a BNC+ can diagnose Gasoline and Diesel Vehicles; Battery Electric Vehicles; Full and Plug-in Hybrid Vehicles; 48V Mild hybrid Vehicles; and Fuel Cell Vehicles.

This Pico Scope 4425A kit provides comprehensive diagnostic capabilities for all types of EV (BEV, MHEV, PHEV, Fuel-cell), and ICE (Diesel, Gasoline, LPG).

In combination with the extensive range of Pico accessories, the 4425A covers engines/ motors, sensors, actuators, communications buses, noise vibration and harshness (NVH), and basic measurements in a user-friendly system that includes extensive training and guidance information for the technician.

The Pico Scope 4425A EV Diagnostics Kit also contains all the test equipment required to ensure safety during work on an EV, and to investigate any faults that are likely to cause safety issues.

Some examples of EV guided tests the Pico kit can perform are: • DC HV energy system or the AC motor/ generator drive system

• Charging behaviour and 12V/HV battery current split issues • Covers CP/PP communications between charging system and vehicle • Three-phase current measurements to check winding balance under load • All 12V and 48V systems Mount Auto Equip Services notes that it is essential that you should only work on highvoltage systems in accordance with the manufacturer’s guidelines and procedures; and you should be properly trained and equipped with relevant personal EV protective equipment.

For more information, visit www.autoequipment.com.au or contact Mount Auto Equip Services on 02 9905 8055 or sales@maeservices.com.au

MODULAR COOLANT HOSES From Gates Australia All types of vehicles have a cooling system and these systems no longer just keep the engine/ motors cool; they also cool and warm various components under the hood, as well as other areas of the vehicle.

In order to convey coolant to these components, the “radiator hoses”, as they were once called, have become much more complicated and even contain assorted elements built into the hose to perform a wide variety of tasks.

These hose assemblies are called “modular” coolant hoses, because they employ a variety of modules in their construction.

A modular hose is defined as a coolant hose assembly, with one or more modules (which are built into the hose) and has coolant flowing through the module(s). These modules can be a branching tee in the hose, quick-connect, valve, drain, air-bleeder or sensors.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

plumbing of the vehicle at assembly. One hose assembly will connect to multiple components.

These modules within the hoses are critical to the proper operation of the cooling system. For example, some hoses include flow-restrictors within the hose. These restrictors reduce the flow and pressure within the hose to certain components such as the heater core; and are required to maintain core integrity.

Last year, Gates says it received a call from a consumer regarding the repeated failure of a heater core in a limousine. It seems the limo had a leaking modular hose and a workshop replaced it with a new, (standard) hose. Soon after, the heater core started leaking. The heater core was replaced, and after just a few months, it started leaking again.

Once the consumer finished explaining the situation, they were asked by Gates if the replacement hose included a flow-restrictor; it did not. Without the restrictor, system pressure was simply too high for the core. When replaced

with a Gates modular hose, Gates report that the issue went away.

Modular hoses can be significantly more costly than standard, moulded coolant hoses. In general, a modular hose is likely to be three times the cost of a standard hose. Some light trucks utilise modular hoses that can have an OE dealer cost in the $500+ range.

Often, such hoses include multiple branches and connectors, with smaller I.D. heater-type hoses which snake around inside the engine compartment. Gates explains that Modular hoses are not a dealer only item, stating you can find the same Gates aftermarket hose from a reseller for significantly less; saving your customer substantially and making it more profitable for you.

For more information on the Gates modular hose range, go to www.gatesaustralia.com.au/modular-hose

ENGINE MANAGEMENT & COOLING

AUTOMOTIVE RADIATORS OEM versus Aftermarket replacements Radiator Direct says the work that goes into the design and validation of automotive cooling system components is mind boggling.

Components and systems in modern vehicles are designed to fit and function as an efficient and reliable assembly.

The finished cooling system products – radiators, oil coolers, condensers and other thermal control components – belie the engineering input and tooling that goes into producing the components.

Aside from improvements in performance, cooling system components have not undergone major

design changes in the last 30 or so years and the parts have looked much the same for many years.

That said, Radiator Direct states the importance of the design and construction of radiators has never been more important.

With increased power outputs, fuel efficiency gains and tighter engine compartments, there is increasingly high demands on cooling system components.

Radiator Direct says major vehicle component manufacturers such as Calsonic Kansei, Denso Corporation, Mahle, Modine, T. RAD, Valeo and a number of other well-known brands lead the way in advanced design and manufacture of thermal control components.

Radiator Direct says it is often asked: are the much cheaper aftermarket replacement parts any good?

It says the short answer unfortunately for the OEMs is usually yes; usually they do fit and function at a similar level to OE. Radiator Direct states that quality aftermarket manufacturers have honed the art of reverse engineering over many years and there are high quality alternatives available in our market.

There are, however, many examples of this not

being the case with the technical features and construction of aftermarket replacement parts being far inferior to OEM, says Radiator Direct.

It warns that the online market place is still full of cheap products and false claims of heavy duty and upgraded components which it says are often simply not true – so it warns, while it is tempting to buy cheap, that could be all you end up with.

Radiator Direct says it distributes radiators and associated thermal control components from leading manufacturers such as Nissens, Denso, Koyo and MAHLE and that it ensures key design features of the OEM part are matched by the aftermarket replacement.

For more information on Radiator Direct products, call 1300 903 715.

AVOID THE AVOIDABLE With Australian-made Low Coolant Alarms and Temperature Gauges With the warmer months upon us, monitoring your cooling system is vital. High ambient temperatures and air conditioners place extra strain on a vehicle’s cooling system.

Most modern cars are equipped with a simplified coolant only temperature gauge with indicators for hot, cold and optimal. However, there is a growing number of new cars that do not have a gauge at all, instead relying on warning lights for hot and cold.

Engines subjected to excessive temperatures can suffer additional wear and tear or in worst cases, engine failure. This is where an aftermarket temperature gauge can be most useful.

REDARC says its 52mm Dual Temperature gauge (G52-TTT) monitors both engine oil and coolant temperatures. An oil temperature only version is also available (G52-TA).

With accurate monitoring of these systems, if the oil temperature rises above a desired limit, the driver can reduce the load placed on the engine

or transmission to reduce the temperature and prevent engine failure.

When concentrating on the road however, a driver may miss a sudden change in temperature, even with the addition of an accurate gauge. A sudden change in temperature can be attributed to rapid coolant loss from causes such as a split hose, a failed pump seal or a stray stone or stick penetrating the radiator core or tank.

REDARC explains its Low Coolant Alarm (LCA1224) is designed to alert the driver before the temperature gauge has even moved from its normal position, and before further damage occurs. Coolant loss can reportedly be detected within seconds, well before the engine overheats.

Suitable for both 12 and 24-volt vehicles, the LCA comes with an AC powered probe meaning it does not cause electrolysis in the cooling system.

The probe also features broken wire detection which sounds the alarm if the wire to the probe is broken.

Another feature is the Anti-slosh delay; if the

radiator is not quite full and coolant sloshes around, the LED flashes after half of a second, however the beeper will not sound for three to four seconds meaning there is a visual remainder but no on-going irritating alarm if there is a slightly low coolant level due to a slow leak or older vehicles with no expansion tank.

The LCA also has a self-test feature whenever the ignition is turned on, to give drivers peace of mind that their alarm is fully functional.

For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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IN THE WORKSHOP

REACHING OUT TO THE NEXT GENERATION

As we continue to deal with our industry’s ongoing skills shortage, attracting the next generation to automotive is a hot topic The way to solve a skills shortage might seem easy on the face of it – simply get more people into the industry! The actual matter of growing industry participation is a complex one however, in what is an increasingly cluttered and competitive careers market.

While attracting mature-aged workers to the industry is an integral part of this puzzle, in this article I want to focus on ‘the next generation’ – that is, school leavers.

While less young people may be growing up helping their parents fix the family car in the driveway and fewer secondary schools have a dedicated ‘trade’ component within their facilities compared to decades past, it is heartening to see many secondary schools encouraging students to consider the trades, including automotive, as a viable career option.

“There are a number of our public schools that have specialist automotive trade training centres.

Students attending these schools have access to current industry trainers, industry standard facilities and nationally recognised automotive training at school. Some schools also offer automotive vocational preparation training on school site by qualified trainers,” Executive Director Statewide Services for the WA Department of Education, Martin Clery, said.

“Automotive industry-based training is also delivered by TAFE Colleges and private providers.

Students typically attend these training facilities or engage in employment-based training with an employer one to two days per week during Years 11 and 12. Some students are successful in securing an apprenticeship and leave education to access these opportunities full time.”

“Schools value automotive training as a strong and viable pathway for students that can lead straight into meaningful work,” said Jodie Fitzsimmons, VET Coordinator for the North Metropolitan Education Regional Office of the WA Department of Education.

“The number of schools that support students to complete automotive training – both in school through registered training organisations, and by facilitating access to external training – clearly indicates that schools value highly the pathways provided by this industry.”

TAFEs are working diligently with schools to provide students a range of training options, supporting school-based apprentices and offering various training pathways.

“Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute’s Automotive Centre of Excellence (ACE) are both well 82

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connected with the automotive industry. We are currently providing training to apprentices from well-known auto companies, including Renault Australia, CMV Truck and Bus, Sheen Group, Mercury Marine and Toyota Australia. At Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute we offer a range of courses, including pathways for Certificate II VETiS and pre-apprenticeships to the Certificate III (apprenticeship) program,” Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute Education Manager Commercial Vehicle and Engine Technology, Gavin Cribb, said.

“We are proud to assist students in various ways when it comes to pursuing a career in the automotive industry, including developing work ready programs and Certificate II courses that lead to apprenticeships and employment opportunities; working directly with a large number of secondary schools, as well as Group Training Organisations and apprentice network centres; and working directly with employers and supporting recruitment campaigns using SEEK and stakeholder engagement strategies.

“We also have an increasing number of Australian School Based Apprenticeship (ASBA) students, which shows that many students start their traineeship through schools. VETiS students are also well supported by schools and at Bendigo TAFE and Kangan Institute we would love to encourage and support more secondary schools with offering automotive studies as part of their curriculum.”

In addition to providing training services for secondary schools, many TAFEs are also working with schools to open the eyes of their students to the possibilities. Just one of these is Box Hill Institute of TAFE. “We offer high school students a taste of what it would be like to work in a workshop and learn all about the automotive industry and how to repair cars by offering vocational education training in schools where they can end up with a Certificate II in Automotive Service Technology.

Similar exposure is also offered through our preapprenticeship programs,” Box Hill institute of TAFE Manager Automotive, Engineering, Welding, Transport and Logistics for the Faculty of Trades, Technology and Transport, Michael Cope, said.

“We also offer ‘taster days’ where schools in our area will bring bus loads of students to us and they can try three trades in a day, including automotive.

On these days, they learn about what is involved, we answer any questions they have, and they can do something practical such as a wiring project or repairing a component before enjoying a tour of our workshops and technology.”

These activities have an integral role to play in combating one key challenge for our industry: the perception of automotive as a career. But there is still more that must be done.

“We are finding that a lot of students, and in particular their parents and sometimes also career advisors, are not thinking of automotive as a viable career – they are seeing manufacturers and more shutting down and they have the stereotype of working in grease and dirt in their heads,” Michael said.

“We work hard to combat these false beliefs by explaining there are 68 brands selling here in Australia and nearly a million cars being sold locally, all of which will need servicing and repairs.

This shows them there is still a big market out there. At the same time, we are careful to educate about what the reality of automotive is in today’s day and age.”

“With the very high levels of technology currently in vehicles and the emerging technologies such

as battery-powered electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, fuel cell electric vehicles and more, workshops of the future are going to need candidates with higher and higher skill levels to deal with the service and repair of systems including but not limited to high-voltage motors and controls, networked computer systems, automation and high level diagnostics,” North Metropolitan TAFE Advanced Skills Lecturer for Engineering, Commercial Construction and Civil Infrastructure, Shaun Holland, said.

“North Metropolitan TAFE has a section dedicated to VET Delivered to Secondary Students (VETDSS) and this team works with college sections and liaises with the schools’ career advisors and so on to ensure schools can provide information to assist their students to make informed decisions.”

It is not only in appearances that the automotive industry has a striking disadvantage when compared by prospective apprentices to their other trade options.

“The potential to earn more money in the other trades appears to be a lot higher and this is certainly a disadvantage for automotive when students and their families are deciding on career paths,” Michael said.

“Wage parity for automotive apprentices to align with electrical, construction and plumbing apprentices would certainly be very welcomed,” Gavin said.

The cumulative affects of these areas on reducing interest in the automotive trades is in part creating a self-fulfilling prophecy as education providers prioritise the trades that have higher interest – such as building, plumbing and so forth – over automotive when it comes to advertising their courses. This lower visibility in marketing does us no favours when it comes to attracting students.

“Universities and TAFEs tend to concentrate on the areas they know are going to get them the big numbers, and at the moment that is trades like electrical and carpentry unless you are talking about the specialised providers such as Kangan Institute with its specialised automotive centre.

In my opinion automotive is definitely not being promoted as much as it used to be,” Michael said.

There is some good news though, with the Government’s recently announced wage subsidy incentivising apprentice employers and impending data sharing law set to make it easier for TAFEs to access the data they need to provide meaningful training to pre-apprentices and apprentices.

There is also no doubting that money goes a long way to not only the decision-making process for students, but also to the abilities of high schools and TAFEs to provide pathways that encourage students to choose automotive as a trade.

While it is clear there are challenges, what is just as obvious is that there are many dedicated personnel working hard in our high schools and

TAFEs across the country to present automotive as an attractive long-term career to today’s students.

The AAAA is also taking action, with a dedicated Skills Shortage Committee formed earlier this year. Held back by the restrictions of COVID-19, this Committee will soon be getting to work in attacking a number of the issues outlined in this article and more in its fight to bring more great employees to our industry.

As part of our efforts, AAAA representatives are already reaching out to high schools – for example, I have conducted a number of technical presentations for teachers, showing them our modern technology – and providing not only training and education but also undertaking initiatives such as the presentation to one school of go-karts to help inspire student interest. On the issue of funding for apprentices, talks were also held recently with Federal Government Minister, The Honourable Michaelia Cash. In a workshop environment, Minister Cash met with AAAA representatives and local business owners to discuss a range of issues around apprentices.

If you are considering employing an apprentice, ensure you are up to date with all the information you need – including the incentives available – by visiting the Federal Government’s www.employment. gov.au website and cross-referencing this with your State Government’s Jobs and Skills resources (Education and Training is a State Government responsibility and each State is different).

I also encourage you to consider paying your apprentices and employees more. It might not be a popular suggestion, but it is a fact that as an industry experiencing a skills shortage, it is vital that we find ways to compete with other trades.

Rewarding our workers better as a whole, not only at the apprentice level but across the board, is vital if we are to not only attract workers, but also retain them long-term.

Finally, if you have any suggestions which you would like the AAAA Skills Shortage Committee to consider when it reconvenes, please let me know by emailing me at msmith@aaaa.com.au

There is also plenty that you can do to help as members of our industry.

I would like to encourage you to consider doing what you can to promote the automotive industry as an attractive potential employer within your community.

Reach out to your local high schools and offer your workshop for tours or work-based placements, or volunteer to speak with students or their advisers about the possibilities available in your workplace and workplaces like yours in this modern day and age.

In fact, talk to everyone you can about the reality of the automotive trades – by taking the time to inform the people around you about what a career in automotive is really like, we can take small steps towards dismantling the widely held stereotypes which turn prospective apprentices (and their parents and career advisors) away.

In this series of articles, Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA) convener, Mike Smith, will take a look at issues that will affect automotive repairer workshops and topics of interest to the sector including occasional profiles of mechanics and other key personnel. msmith@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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TRADE TALK

BALANCE, ALIGMNENT AND APPLICATION From flipping cars to building businesses, Corghi Australia’s Andrew Cornwell has carved out a niche in the automotive aftermarket which aligns with his passion for innovation Looking forward, identifying new trends and taking calculated risks is all in a day’s work for Andrew Cornwell, the General Manager of Corghi Australia.

He was born in Brunswick, Victoria, but soon after, his family moved to New South Wales – a state he has called home ever since.

“Growing up, I always had a passion for cars. So, when I was offered an apprenticeship with a BMW and Datsun dealership, I jumped at the chance,” Andrew said.

Never one to rest on his laurels, it was not long before Andrew put his newly developed skills to work, purchasing trade-ins from the dealership, fixing them up on the weekend, and flipping them for a profit.

“The apprenticeship was great, and I really enjoyed the work, but the wages were horrible. I think I was taking home about $50 per week,” Andrew quipped.

Flipping cars was an excellent way for Andrew to make a little extra cash on the side, and in looking back on this period, Andrew realised it allowed him the opportunity to develop his sales skills as well.

“It’s funny to think about it now, but I made good money out of fixing up and flipping Toyota Coronas,” Andrew reminisced.

“I also remember picking up a red Subaru trade-in. Nobody wanted them at the time, and the dealer could not wholesale it, so I grabbed it for a steal, fixed it up, and drove it around for a while. It was a cracker little car, but at the time, no one knew what a Subaru was – wow how have times changed!”

After finishing his apprenticeship and getting his ticket as a fully qualified mechanic, Andrew tried his hand as a car salesman in the same dealership.

Still, he quickly discovered it was not the job for him.

“I hate high-pressure sales,” said Andrew. “I’m passionate about helping customers find the right solution for their needs, and anyone in car sales will tell you that it’s a numbers game, and it just wasn’t right for me.”

As luck would have it, Andrew’s neighbour at the time was working for Repco, and one day as they were chatting over the fence, he mentioned they were on the hunt for a new Equipment Sales Representative. That was all the incentive Andrew needed to point his career in a new direction.

“During my time as a mechanic, I used a wide variety of workshop equipment, so I knew what worked and what didn’t,” Andrew explained.

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“I took this experience, applied it to my new role in Repco, and found that my customers appreciated the insights I could provide. My time as a mechanic meant that I could relate to their issues and recommend the right machinery to suit their specific needs.”

Quickly, Andrew realised he had made the right decision to join Repco.

“I was 25 at the time, and once I’d started equipment sales, I just fell in love with the job.

I knew it was for me and decided that this was the niche in which I’d build my career in the automotive aftermarket,” said Andrew.

During his seven-year tenure at Repco, Andrew specialised in workshop and diagnostic equipment sales, including wheel aligners, balancers, and airconditioning equipment.

“These are high involvement, high investment purchases for workshops. I enjoyed the challenge of matching our range of equipment to their customer profiles and workshop space to ensure they chose the right machine for their purposes,” said Andrew.

“It’s something I still enjoy today, that personal service combined with a passion for helping our customers improve efficiencies and ultimately drive profitability still gets me out of bed in the morning, even after all these years.”

Continuing his career in workshop equipment, Andrew would spend time at Balco and Beissbarth,

Andrew Cornwell, General Manager Corghi Australia.

honing his skills and building his reputation as an automotive equipment specialist before Corghi knocked on his door and tasked him with the challenge of building the brand in Australia.

“Before I jumped on board, Corghi workshop machinery had been represented in Australia by several different distributors, but none gave it the attention it deserved,” Andrew described.

“In 2013, the Corghi family decided it was time to own their destiny in the Australian market.

TRADE TALK “I was tasked with building the brand and to do that, we needed stock on the ground and a full range of spare parts, so we opened a warehouse and appointed sales and service technicians around the country.”

Corghi tyre equipment is renowned the world over for innovation, quality, and precision. Still, it had little brand recognition or equity in Australia, so while the range was excellent, Andrew had a huge task to increase market penetration.

“Our plan was to educate workshop owners and managers about how they can make their business run more efficiently, reduce downtime, and increase productivity by selecting the right combination of Corghi machinery,” explained Andrew.

“Based on this fundamental premise and supported by our team of highly skilled technicians, we have built a reputation as the premier workshop equipment brand in Australia.”

Of course, this rise has not been without its challenges as the landscape of the automotive aftermarket is continually changing.

Change is the one constant in this industry, and the most significant shift has been the trend towards tyre manufacturers vertically integrating their supply channel, says Andrew.

“This trend towards vertical integration has been driven by the continual erosion of margin across decades,” Andrew explained.

“Tyre manufacturers are in a huge battle for market share, and to do this, they need complete control over their channel to market. They have become retailers as well as manufacturers and now represent their brands through direct retail stores.”

This vertical integration is a double-edged sword for Corghi. Working with key accounts is a volume game that squeezes margin, but manufacturers understanding that investing in quality equipment and training ensures their product performs at its full potential.

“Even the best tyre will perform like a 50cent piece if it is fitted incorrectly, and tyre manufacturers understand that more than anyone.

While it has squeezed margins, vertical integration has also unfolded new opportunities,” Andrew said.

“Wheel assembly and the tyre are a crucial part of the car’s overall performance and there is change occurring around technical attitudes towards wheels and tyres rather than, ‘Oh, it’s just a black thing that runs around on the road.’”

Corghi was quick to identify that product differentiation in the tyre industry is a challenge and has reportedly leveraged its position as world leaders in workshop equipment innovation to assist manufacturers in this area.

“It’s a lot easier to differentiate on service and technical expertise. Tyre manufacturers are using

that vertical integration to highlight their technical expertise,” Andrew said.

“Their goal is to restore their customers’ driving experience so that their vehicle feels exactly like it did when it rolled off the showroom floor.”

Of course, the highly experienced team at Corghi also services a considerable number of independent workshops in addition to large, national retail chains.

“Competition is critical, and there will always be the need for independent workshops to prosper to keep the larger chains honest,” said Andrew.

“We work closely with independents to ensure they specify the right equipment for their mix of vehicles. From passenger and four-wheel-drives all the way to industrial and agricultural tyres, we have a machine that will deliver repeatable and dependable results time and time again.”

There is little doubt that Andrew is an automotive aftermarket journeyman with a wealth of experience.

“Equal parts tenacity and attitude, mixed with

a passion for learning will set you on the right pathway,” Andrew said when asked what qualities are required to build a long and successful career in the automotive aftermarket.

“You can always learn new skills, but the right attitude will get you further in this industry than technical expertise alone.”

Andrew’s passion for learning is reflected in Corghi’s long-term AAAA Membership.

“The AAAA is the mouthpiece for the automotive aftermarket,” said Andrew.

“But more than that, the insights, training, and market intelligence they share with members is invaluable. Our team use this market intelligence to identify future trends, and it helps us frame our rolling five-year business plan.

“If you’re in the automotive aftermarket and not already an AAAA member, I strongly suggest getting involved,” he added.

To find out more about Corghi Australia, visit www.corghi.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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MILESTONES

HAIGH AUSTRALIA CELEBRATES 50TH ANNIVERSARY OF TRADE The company says it is Australia’s leading supplier of automotive, caravanning, and leisure products In 2020, Haigh Australia celebrates 50 years of trade. The company was originally founded in 1970 as Douglas Haigh and Associates; a familyowned operation with a buy-and-sell business plan and an 80m2 warehouse space in the Melbourne suburb of Collingwood, Victoria.

Joining shortly after the company formation was Rick Greville, a previous associate of Douglas Haigh. Together, Douglas and Rick worked tirelessly to build relationships with retailers and within 12 months had started importing stock lines from abroad; most notably, King Klik Rivets from the UK. In 1971 after considerable growth, the decision was made to amalgamate with Morey Equity Pty Ltd. This merger immediately saw an increase in business, and with it came a realisation that a larger space was required. This led to the acquisition of a new 325m2 warehouse in nearby Abbotsford.

The newly re-named Morey Haigh and Associates Pty Ltd continued to see exponential growth, year upon year, and before long, the company acquired a neighbouring block of land to build an adjacent 325m2 warehouse that was to accommodate an expansion into manufacturing.

Equipment was sourced from South Australia, and soon Morey Haigh and Associates Pty Ltd was in the business of manufacturing its own lines of battery terminals, earth straps, and starter cables.

With continuous growth the deciding factor, 1982 saw the company embark on another move to a 12,000ft2 facility that could accommodate an office, showroom, and much larger warehouse space in Scoresby.

This new space allowed the company to take more control over its stock and, more importantly, allowed expansion of its manufacturing capability.

This time also saw the introduction of distribution agents in each state to help the company streamline supply outside of its Victorian base.

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The 80s saw increased market share, year after year, and the decision was made to open a second office based in Sydney, NSW, as the appointed agents simply could not cope with the company’s continual growth.

In 1990, the company acquired Sunland Agencies, a well-respected manufacturer of dashmats and floormats based in Salisbury on Brisbane’s southside. This acquisition opened the door for a Brisbane office to take over trading in Queensland, where this had previously been handled by an agent.

1993 marked another name change, this time to Haigh Australia Pty Ltd, and was also the year Brilaw Automotive, its largest distribution competitor, collapsed.

For Haigh, growth was the key word, and in 1995 another acquisition was made. The acquiring of Qld Motor Spares and Accessories (QMSA) reportedly gave them a major advantage with “an unrivalled product range and an extensive customer base.”

In 2000, Haigh Australia says it recognised the need for a variety of unique house-brands to help differentiate between product categories. This led to the creation of Cargo Mate, Battery Link and Orcon; three mainstay brands in their respective categories.

2001 saw the relocation of Haigh’s Brisbane office to its current location in Darra, and the wealth of opportunities presented led to Brisbane becoming the new Head Office for the company.

The increased size of the new location meant the dashmat manufacturing process could also be accommodated on-site, which the company says meant a much higher level of quality control and productivity than ever before.

In 2005, Haigh acquired Protective Plastics, based on the Sunshine Coast in Queensland; a plastics molding operation that produced bonnet protectors, headlight protectors, and weather shields for vehicles.

Pat Callinan is the primary Exitrax ambassador for Haigh Australia.

With Sunland Dashmats, Floormats, and Protective Plastics now under the Haigh umbrella, Haigh Australia says it was able to refine both the material sourcing and manufacturing processes, “to become Australia’s largest and most respected distributor of vehicle-specific products.”

2011 also saw the company move into the previously unchartered territory of caravan, leisure, and 4WD products, which saw the Explore and Mean Mother 4X4 brands emerge.

In the decade since moving into the caravan, leisure, and 4WD market, Haigh says it has become a well-respected supplier for these products due to dedication to innovation, education, and manufacturing standards.

“Our success is built on continued innovation, quality products, and a reputation for impeccable customer service,” Haigh Australia Managing Director, Alan McMahon, said.

Haigh has also recently been involved in extensive research and development of 4WD recovery boards.

It explains this has resulted in the Exitrax range which it says is “arguably the biggest innovation in recovery boards with worldwide patents pending.”

For more information, visit www.haigh.com.au

MILESTONES

R&J BATTERIES CELEBRATES 25 YEARS OF SUCCESS Today, the battery specialist services all of Australia and New Zealand R&J Batteries, Australia’s fastest growing battery company, celebrates its 25th anniversary this year.

The battery distributor has 24 company-owned branches and a footprint of more than 8,000 stockists and distributors throughout Australia and New Zealand.

It supplies batteries for all applications including automotive, commercial, motorcycle, marine, deep cycle, solar and industrial.

Established in December 1995 by Ray Robson and John Webb, R&J Batteries’ journey to becoming the renowned battery specialists they are today started from humble beginnings.

As young adults, Ray and John moved from Avoca in Victoria to Ballarat in search of work opportunities. After finding work at a local battery company, they gained various skills including hand building batteries.

When the time was right to venture on their own, they invested every cent they had in a run-down shed in La Trobe Street, Ballarat and this was the beginning of R&J Batteries.

While John eventually left the business in 2011 to pursue other interests, Ray remains a hands-on Managing Director, actively involved in all aspects of the business.

R&J Batteries’ rapid growth since the opening of its second branch in Bendigo in 2001 saw subsequent branches open in Tullamarine, Doveton, Stapylton, Hervey Bay, Fyshwick and Wetherill Park followed by Dubbo, Bayswater, Beresfield, Adelaide, Geelong, Townsville, Brendale, Cairns, Truganina and more recently Darwin, Bairnsdale and Tablelands.

Along with merging with Island Batteries Hobart and Launceston, this expansion has reportedly earned R&J Batteries the reputation of being the ‘fastest growing battery company in Australia.’

Its success in Australia paved the way for international expansion in 2017 when R&J Batteries opened its first branch in Auckland, New Zealand; followed by a second branch in Christchurch in 2019 to keep up with the demand

for quality batteries in the highly competitive New Zealand market.

2019 also saw R&J batteries enter into a purchase agreement to acquire New Zealand based battery importer and distributor, ACME Batteries. Today, R&J Batteries services all of Australia and New Zealand with its 24 company-owned branches and 8,000 distributors.

R&J Batteries says its formula for success is a simple but strict adherence to its founding principles: “Our People, Our Products and Our Service.”

Over the years, R&J Batteries says its commitment to providing the best in battery technology for its customers has led to the inclusion of world-class brands such as Delkor, ACDelco, Fullriver, U.S Battery, BAE, Deka, RELiON, Hardcore, Motobatt, Odyssey, Optima, Predator and Fuchs to its extensive brand portfolio.

Furthermore, the company says it strives to hire, develop and retain the best quality staff as they are a key part of the business’ ongoing success and responsible for delivering the customer service that R&J Batteries is well known for.

“One of the key factors to our continued success is securing distribution rights for the highest quality products available then having the best people on the ground providing a high level of customer service,” R&J Batteries Managing Director, Ray Robson, said.

“We have supported brands like Delkor, Fullriver and Fuchs for more than 20 years. This has earnt R&J Batteries respect and above average support from these world class organisations.

“I would like to take this opportunity to personally thank our loyal customers for their continued support and our fantastic staff that make this company what it is today.”

Despite the unprecedented circumstances of 2020, R&J Batteries says it has been busy throughout. It opened its 23rd branch in Bairnsdale, Victoria in June and is set to open its 24th branch in Tablelands, Queensland in November.

The battery distributor has also added three new battery brands, KOBA, ALLiON and Zenaji, to its brand portfolio which covers a range of applications.

Further, R&J Batteries’ strong interest in motorsports also saw the company sponsoring Nick Percat’s #8 Commodore throughout the 2020 Virgin Australia Supercars Championship.

“2021 and beyond is going to be very strong for our company,” R&J Batteries Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Hamilton, said.

“We already have plans in the pipeline for additional company owned branches and distribution points across both Australia and New Zealand.

“Our R&D team have several new products in the pipeline which will allow us to further expand our product line up. Sourcing the highest quality products possible remains our product focus and these new lines will reflect this commitment.

“We can all look back and be proud of what R&J Batteries has achieved in the past 25 years.

Equally we look forward to the next 25 years with great anticipation as we continue to grow and prosper.”

For more information, visit www.rjbatt.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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CONSUMER LAW

SUPPLIERS CLAIMING COSTS FROM MANUFACTURERS What happens when a consumer makes a defective part claim against a supplier?

Who is responsible for assisting the consumer with the defective part claim? Further, if the supplier provides a remedy to the consumer, who is ultimately responsible for the cost (for example, refund or repair costs, including labour costs) of assisting the consumer, the supplier or the manufacturer?

Who must assist the customer?

If a consumer approaches the supplier or manufacturer of a defective part with a consumer guarantee claim, then under the Australian Consumer Law (ACL) it is the responsibility of the person who is approached to assist the consumer with the claim and, if applicable, to provide a remedy.

However, if the supplier provides a remedy to a consumer, they may be able to seek an indemnity against the manufacturer in accordance with section 274 of the ACL.

What is the right of indemnity in favour of the supplier?

A manufacturer is liable to indemnify a supplier who is liable for loss or damage suffered by a consumer for the failure to meet a consumer guarantee, where both the supplier and the manufacturer would be liable under the ACL to provide a remedy for the particular failure to meet the consumer guarantee.

Without limiting this right of indemnity under the ACL, the ACL also provides that the manufacturer is liable to indemnify the supplier who supplies goods to a consumer, if the supplier incurs costs, in relation to the failure to meet the following consumer guarantees: • the consumer guarantee as to acceptable quality (ACL section 54); • the consumer guarantee as to fitness for a

disclosed purpose, which is made known by the consumer to the manufacturer either directly, or through the supplier or a person through whom prior arrangements or negotiations were made (ACL section 55); • the consumer guarantee in relation to the description applied to the product by or on behalf of the manufacturer (or with the express or implied consent of the manufacturer) (ACL section 56).

There are some limitations on this. For example, the manufacturer will not be liable if the failure to meet the consumer guarantee arose due to a representation, act or omission made by a person who is not the manufacturer (or their employee or agent), or due to a cause independent of human control after the goods left the control of the manufacturer.

The indemnity in relation to goods that are not of a kind ordinarily acquired for personal, domestic or household use or consumption is limited under the ACL to a repair, replacement or refund (unless it is not fair and reasonable for the manufacturer to do so or greater liability is imposed on the manufacturer by contract).

Please note this limitation applies to the good itself not ordinarily being for personal, domestic or household use or consumption, not the fact that the good may be, or has been, re-supplied by the supplier.

If the supplier seeks to enforce the right of indemnity against the manufacturer the supplier must do so within three years of the earlier of the first day of the discharge of the liability (in whole or in part), or the day on which the consumer commenced proceedings against the supplier.

What may be claimed?

Broadly, the supplier is entitled to be indemnified for costs incurred in providing a remedy to a consumer pursuant to a relevant consumer guarantee.

Depending on the circumstances this may include the full price of the good (for example if the good is rejected and returned by the consumer), the reduction in value of the good, the consumer’s reasonably foreseeable loss or damage, which may include, the cost of an expert to diagnose the issue, towing costs and the installation costs of a good.

A supplier may provide a remedy of installing a new good or repairing the good, and this is likely to be encompassed within the indemnity provided under the ACL as a reasonably foreseeable loss to the consumer or as a cost incurred by the supplier in providing the remedy.

Arguably, such costs can be claimed at the supplier’s usual labour charge and although there

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may be converse positions, the amount of the labour charge would ultimately be the decision of the court or tribunal determining the matter.

What if there is a warranty or other contract between the manufacturer and the supplier?

A manufacturer and supplier may operate pursuant to a warranty or contract in respect of a consumer claim, however, such documents do not displace the consumer guarantees or the indemnity.

Key takeaways The key takeaways relating to the indemnity under the ACL in favour of the supplier include: • if both the supplier and the manufacturer are liable to a consumer for damages for the failure to meet a particular consumer guarantee under the ACL, then, where the supplier provides a remedy to the consumer, there is an indemnity in favour of the supplier against the manufacturer, including for costs incurred by the supplier; • the amount that may be recovered by the supplier will depend on the circumstances and is ultimately a decision for a court or tribunal; and • a warranty or contract will not displace the indemnity in favour of the supplier and may only modify the indemnity to the extent permitted under the ACL. This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Industry Legal Group if you require legal advice

AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters.

If you have any questions relating to the above information, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au

HR

PUBLIC HOLIDAYS OVER THE CHRISTMAS/NEW YEAR PERIOD 2020 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.

The following days have been declared Public Holidays for this year’s Christmas/New Year period: Date

NSW VIC QLD SA WA TAS ACT NT

Thursday X X X 24 December (from 6pm (from 7pm (from 7pm

to midnight) to midnight) to midnight Friday X X X X X X X X 25 December Saturday X X X X X 26 December Monday X X X X X X X X 28 December Thursday X X 31 December (from 7pm (from 7pm

to midnight) to midnight Friday X X X X X X X X 1 January

PUBLIC HOLIDAY ENTITLEMENTS Entitlement to be absent The National Employment Standards provide all employees with the right to not work on a public holiday. While an employer can request that an employee work on a declared public holiday if the request is reasonable, the employee may refuse to work if they have reasonable grounds.

Payment for absence Employees (except casual employees) who normally work on a day that a public holiday falls will 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).

Employees generally don’t get paid for a public holiday if they do not normally work on the

day that the public holiday falls. For example, if a part-time employee only works Monday to Thursday each week but the public holiday falls on a Friday, the employee does not get paid for the public holiday because they do not normally work the Friday. Note, a roster can’t be changed to deliberately avoid public holiday pay.

Payment for working on a public holiday Generally, employees will be paid public holiday rates for time worked on a public holiday. The applicable public holiday rates will depend on the workplace instrument that covers the employee.

Substitute day An employer and an employee can agree to substitute a public holiday (or part-day 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.

Rostered day off If employers have a rostered day off (RDO) system in place with any of their employees, they should refer to the applicable award for specific information. Some awards may provide for an alternative paid day off where an RDO falls on a public holiday.

CHECKING YOUR CONDITIONS The information provided in this publication is necessarily general. Different arrangements for their public holidays may apply depending on the applicable workplace instrument. Before this holiday season, it is important to check what conditions and penalty rates apply to your employees.

AAAA Member Benefits 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 applicable penalty rates.

Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you require any assistance.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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PERFORMANCE AND RACING

SUMMERNATS SLAM 2021 The Summernats team is gearing up for a big 2021 Summernats recently released an all-new calendar which it says features some of Australia’s best automotive lifestyle events taking place across the country.

If you’ve never been to a Summernats, organisers say this is the year to check out the nation’s best car builds and unveils, show ‘n’ shines, vehicle demos and competition plus a huge trade show with the best aftermarket solutions and products on display.

POTENZA RE-71RS WINS OVER TIME ATTACK CHAMPS The new tyre made its competitive debut at the Australian Time Attack event at Wakefield Park Bridgestone says its new street-legal semi-slick tyre, the Potenza RE-71RS, entered the market having already proven its credentials with a onetwo finish in the Australian Time Attack Club Sprint class at Wakefield Park.

Bridgestone explains that the RE-71RS has been released on the Australian market promising increased grip levels, improved handling, and better wear life over its predecessor, the RE-71R, while retaining practicality for everyday use.

The tyre made its competitive debut at the Australian Time Attack event fitted to the Mitsubishi Evo VI of Club Sprint winner Jamal Assaad and Evo X of runner-up Nik Kalis, who both recorded personal best times around the NSW track on the new tyre.

Bridgestone Potenza shod cars filled the top four positions of the class, with Andre Naz’s Evo VIII fitted with the RE-71R tyre claiming third, and the Honda Civic of Adrian Pazman also on the RE-71RS in fourth.

The all-new Summernats Slam will feature three huge days of drags, burnouts, show ‘n’ shine, motorkhana, trade and more at Sydney Dragway across January 8 to 10. The event kicks off on Friday January 8 with the Garrett Advancing Motion Drag Day – a huge day and night of racing on the newly upgraded track with $10,000 in prize money up for grabs.

There are categories for everything from dedicated race cars to street cars, and everything in between. Plus, there is a 10,000 HP Blower Vs Turbo showdown ready to rumble on Friday night.

Saturday and Sunday at Summernats Slam will see the madness of the Burnout Masters hit the pad as well as Motorkhana, Show ‘n’ Shine, Skid Row, and a VIP park-up in the pits, as well as non-competition drag racing sessions.

Organisers say it is set to be a huge weekend with a total of $30,000 up for grabs.

Another first for the event is the offering of exclusive Corporate Box Packages which include seven Corporate Season Passes for Friday, Saturday and Sunday, premium viewing of all the action from a private airconditioned area plus a food and alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverage package.

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Winner Jamal Assad and runner up Nik Kalis both praised the new tyre, vouching for the RE71RS’ increased grip levels, as well as better longevity and consistency across their flying laps throughout the event.

Jamal set an impressive 1:01.1130s to take out the Club Sprint class, bettering his time by more than a second on the RE-71RS, and was reportedly impressed by the consistency of the new tyre.

“It’s the best road-legal tyre I’ve driven on to date. The feedback the tyre provides is outstanding,” Jamal said.

“I was surprised by how consistent the tyre was and my lap times reflected that. It didn’t drop off during my runs and every lap on the RE71-RS was giving me more confidence to push harder.

“It feels like a very safe tyre because of the amount of grip on hand and the feedback it gives in the corners and under brakes. When you’re chasing Time Attack results, being able to trust your grip levels is crucial and the RE-71RS is a tyre you can trust.”

Runner-up Nik Kalis has been a part of the Australian Time Attack community for the better part of a decade and rates the RE-71RS as the best tyre he has competed on, impressed by its responsiveness, grip and durability.

Nik believes the switch to RE-71RS was the key factor in setting his 1:01.9020s time – a respectable improvement of half a second.

“It’s so direct. Wherever it wanted the car to go, it went and what I wanted it to do, it did. It feels like a really good tyre,” Nik said.

“The grip level is noticeable over the older tyre and I was adapting my driving style to carry more speed through the corner. I was able to go deeper under brakes and be back on the throttle earlier because of the ridiculous amount of grip.

“The other impressive thing I found with the RE71RS was how long they stay in the optimum window for. Other tyres I have used in the past are only good a lap of two, but the RE-71RS seems to have a longer life in each run, and each session felt as consistent as the previous.”

The RE-71RS is available through Bridgestone’s network of Bridgestone Select and Bridgestone Service Centre stores, as well as dedicated motorsport tyre distributors.

For more information, visit www.bridgestonetyres.com.au

PERFORMANCE AND RACING

AARON GREGORY’S MEMPHIS HELL WINS SMOTY 2020 Aaron has claimed the Valvoline Street Machine of the Year trophy and a 20k prize Since 1988, the Street Machine of the Year award has been a highly coveted prize. It is a lucrative one too, thanks to a $20,000 first prize thanks to Valvoline.

Aaron’s treated the truck to five genre-busting rebirths since then, most recently chopping both the roof and the hand-made tub and reinventing it as a corner-carving, pro touring marvel.

In 2020, boat builder turned performance car builder Aaron Gregory was awarded the Valvoline Street Machine of the Year award for his ’51 Chev ute, dubbed Memphis Hell.

Off the back of that rebuild, it scored another feature in Street Machine and qualified as a Valvoline Street Machine Of The Year finalist before being voted as the most popular street machine of 2020 by the magazine’s readership.

The ute was built in a three-month dash and first broke cover at MotorEx 2012 before being promptly put to work cruising up and down the east coast of Oz. All those road miles didn’t stop it from making two visits to the Summernats Top 60 and scoring a swag of other tinware at shows all over the country.

“I really didn’t expect to be nominated for a second time, eight years after the car debuted and up against an epic field of cars, I didn’t see this one coming,” said Aaron, the owner of Memphis Hell Custom Vehicle Builders.

“I played to my strengths, which was driving and using my car, but I enjoyed being cheeky about it.

How many other SMOTY contenders were picking up toilet paper in their nominated car?

“I didn’t build it to win trophies, but I think people like seeing it at interstate shows being used and driven. If I have had a bad week at work, the only thing that gets me out of that headspace is jumping in the truck and finding a twisty road or freeway to blast.

“Winning SMOTY is a great thing for me because

mini-truckers get boo-hooed all the time, but have a look at what shops mini-truckers are running and the cars they’re turning out – Ryan Carter at United Speed Shop, Graeme Brewer up at Down Town Kustoms, Michael Ellard at Image Conversions, Pete Lamb at Melomotive and Brendan Carroll at Car Builders – and me here!

“I get offended when people call it a show car, or ask where I have towed it from. It is a car; you drive it. I don’t understand people who look at it when it’s parked and laid out and say things like: ‘Oh, you can’t even drive it.’ Well how did I get it there?”

For more information on the Valvoline Street Machine of the Year Award, visit www.whichcar.com.au/streetmachine/events/smoty

SCHAEFFLER PARTNERS WITH DTM The new partnership will see Schaeffler play an instrumental role in shaping a fully-electric future for DTM At the final DTM race weekend of 2020 in early November, Schaeffler showed what the future of the DTM will look like: green and electric.

As the new Series and Innovation Partner of the DTM, Schaeffler and the umbrella organisation, ITR (Internationale Tourenwagen Rennen e.V.) presented a demonstration car at the Hockenheimring.

The demonstration car features four batterypowered Schaeffler drivetrains – one for each wheel – and is also equipped with Space Drive steer-by-wire technology.

The prototype was driven by Formula E driver Daniel Abt and two-time DTM champion Timo Scheider, as well as Schaeffler Brand Ambassador, Sophia Flörsch.

“We are looking forward to the partnership,” Schaeffler Chief Executive Officer for Automotive Technologies, Matthias Zink, said.

“Our innovative e-drive technologies have been

producing success in Formula E since 2014 and are now also used in production vehicles.

“The collaboration demonstrates pioneering spirit and innovation, and underlines our desire, as technology partner, to make progress that has an impact on the world.”

The demonstration car that was in action at the Hockenheimring generates almost 1,200 hp with 800 kW – that is virtually twice as much power as the current DTM cars (over 450 kW).

The car accelerates from 0 to 100 km/h in 2.4 seconds, making it roughly 0.4 seconds faster than the current Schaeffler BMW M4 DTM. It also features Space Drive steer-by-wire technology, which Schaeffler says has been successfully tried and tested in motorsport, as well as an integrated vehicle dynamics control to control the four motors.

In its role as a development platform for the electric DTM, outings are planned at DTM events in 2021.

Schaeffler says it is then possible that the DTM will be a fully-electric race series from 2023.

The global automobile and industrial supplier has only recently launched a new image campaign, with the goal of positioning the corporate brand Schaeffler and communicating the new claim “We pioneer motion.”

At the heart of the campaign is the concept “Green makes the difference”, which Schaeffler says symbolises that it is a trailblazer when it comes to motion.

“The partnership with the DTM is perfectly suited to Schaeffler. As a pioneer, we want to challenge the status quo and push the boundaries – and, in doing so, to make a difference,” Matthias said.

For more information, visit www.schaeffler.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine November 2020

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BUSINESS SERVICES

PLASTFIX LAUNCHES DIGITAL TRAINING STUDIO The company recently launched its new digital training and research studio in Adelaide Plastfix says the launch of the studio has accelerated its ability to deliver online training in plastic restorations to offsite and field-based technicians.

With the constraints currently in place due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Plastfix saw huge disruption to the traditional methods of essential, hands-on training. By incorporating these new capabilities, it is now able to continually provide for the necessary training and upskilling of its staff.

Plastfix says it is a leader in automotive plastic restoration processing that adopts a filler free process, with further plans to make its training catalogue and range of specialty tools available to the market in early 2021, backed by a number of globally-recognised industry bodies such as I-CAR. The six-month project reportedly uses the latest in online software, filming, cloud storage, audio and editing technology to create the smartest training delivery solution in the industry.

New training content can be conceived, produced and edited within 24 hours.

Plastfix has also integrated the ability to live

stream training, with the capacity to reach up to 50,000 viewers per session around the world, perform remote quality control and interact with users in real time.

Raw training video is recorded during the day, immediately uploaded to a cloud-based server, edited overnight, stored on an online distribution portal and is live and ready for distribution the following day through the use of the innovative mobile productivity app WorxManager by Tradiebot Industries. The facility will add to the already expansive library of over 150 plastic repair videos that Plastfix is currently hosting.

The demand for plastic repairs within the collision repair industry is constantly growing. As Plastfix maintains its stance as a leader in this space, there was a requirement to re-invent how such specialised training is delivered to users who are able to access such courses via their PC, smart phone or tablet at any time, from any location.

The Plastfix Digital Training Studio is located within the Innovation Centre at MTA South Australia and is said to be key to the company’s

ability to provide freedom and flexibility to plastic repair technicians when upskilling, while also undertaking induction training for new recruits.

The digital hub is also equipped with 3D printers to support the research and development activities of Plastfix Labs. This enables the testing of prototypes, and the building of a comprehensive catalogue of various lugs and brackets, allowing Plastfix to repair additional damaged plastic parts like expensive headlight assemblies.

For more information, visit www.plastfix.com or email john.morrissey@plastfix.com

WORKSHOP SOFTWARE PREPARES FOR “BEST YEAR EVER” The company says its growing team and defined focus can help build the business of your dreams Point of sale provider Workshop Software is an Australian owned and developed product with 4,700-plus users in more than 33 countries.

Workshop Software says its ‘Software as a Service’ structure allows it to update and constantly improve the product via the internet where connection is the only requirement, allowing owners to run their business from a phone, tablet or laptop at home or on holiday.

It says the product saves time and money by allowing workshops to complete invoices and job cards, book and track mechanics’ time, manage stock, update job cards, and automate service reminders for customers.

“My father Ron was a Parts Manager and Interpreter, so the Australian automotive industry has always been a part of my life. We’ve been to and enjoyed a bunch of AAAA events,” Workshop Software Chief Executive Officer, James Mitchell, said.

“We’re currently working on more product improvements including a Business Intelligence and analysis tool, perfecting empathy in our communications, plus more detailed help guides as our customer base grows.

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“We’ll give back to the industry with some charity initiatives; and my complementary book about systemising a workshop for more profit is always available. The end of this year and the start of next couldn’t look brighter!”

A recent planning session for the newly doubled team reportedly revealed that employees consider the family owned and run business a drawcard, rather than working for a large publicly traded corporation.

“We work with Mothers and Fathers who run their automotive industry business each day for turnover and often to handover as a future business, job and source of income to younger family members. It is essential that we give our subscribers Australian based, human support on the end of the phone to reflect that belief,” James said.

“From what we’ve seen, the COVID-19 challenge has led to a growing gap between those workshops that plan, think positively, reflect on their strategy and act to grow their business, compared to those that panic.

“Customers still want mobility so lots of stores have used downtime to improve their practices with their teams, capitalise on weak new car

sales and use our communications centre to let customers know that they are open, trading safely and run servicing promotions via SMS or email”.

Workshop Software says its program integrates seamlessly with parts suppliers like Burson Auto Parts and Repco, as well as accounting software such as Xero, myob, Sage and QuickBooks. The mobile app allows logging of labour time against jobs, talk to text description to avoid typing notes and attaching images of the customer’s vehicle parts.

Pricing starts with the Bronze tier from $39.99 plus GST per month ($480 per annum) or $960 per annum for Gold with 10,000 Capricorn points for a limited time.

For info on how to start a free trial today, visit www.workshopsoftware.com or call 1300 729 658