Engine Management & Cooling - Looking after your customers’ engine needs

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.

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

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 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

DEFYING CORROSION

for more information.

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

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.

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

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

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 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 • 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 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

DAYCO WATER PUMP AND THERMOSTAT RANGE

www.ngk.com.au

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

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

What is an air conditioning pressure switch?

The air-con pressure switch is a safety device that is fitted to most modern 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. 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.

For more information, visit www.tridon.com.au or call 1300 362 263.

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

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 batteries of the car cool. Much like when an engine management system in that it works by engine is running, EV batteries heat up through having a wide array of sensors all throughout the use; and by being able to monitor the temperature vehicle, enabling it to monitor and control the of the battery cells, the BMS is able to adjust the electrical output in the car. cooling system to keep the battery pack as close The actual unit itself is usually a small circuit to its optimal temperature as possible. board with several controllers and inputs on it, Batteries are particularly sensitive to temperature, and typically closely resembles an engine control and as such, being able to keep them from unit in both appearance and size. overheating or from getting too cold has a One of the most important features of a BMS is its significant impact on the overall driving range of ability to monitor the state of the battery, keeping the vehicle. tabs on many different characteristics such as the Additionally, the BMS helps to manage many state of charge, temperature, current, voltage and EV-specific features such as regenerative braking the flow of coolant – all essential things to help and charging the vehicle. keep an EV running smoothly. As the vehicle slows down, the BMS is able to Much like how an engine management system allocate power generated from the electric motor can control the engine to keep it healthy, a BMS running in reverse back to the battery to increase is able to protect EVs from things like overcurrent driving range. and undervoltage. Moreover, the BMS has to negotiate with the The BMS plays a critical role in keeping 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.

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 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

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. 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. You will primarily see modular hoses on European vehicles, but the Asian makes are quickly following suit as modular hoses simplify the 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/

MODULAR COOLANT HOSES

From Gates Australia

generator drive system 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 • 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

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

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 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 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.

AVOID THE AVOIDABLE

With Australian-made Low Coolant Alarms and Temperature Gauges

There are, however, many examples of this not 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 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.

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