20 minute read
Driveline & Suspension
WINMAX WP2
Performance upgrade brake pads for heavy duty and off road, GVM upgrades and towing
Winmax WP2 is a new to market brake pad available from Motorsport Brakes. Manufactured to standards matching those used in top level motorsport, Motorsport Brakes says this product is a direct fit brake upgrade for some of the popular 4x4 models. This pad reportedly works from low temperatures and Motorsport Brakes says its fade resistance is excellent, making it perfect for: • Heavy Duty 4x4 • Off Road • Towing • GVM Upgrade • Wheel and tyre ‘over diameter’ upgrades
Winmax WP2 brake pads are a low-steel, carbonbased compound that Motorsport Brakes says will work much harder than other ‘heavy duty’ pad options, with lower pedal pressure required to pull up those big loads.
Specifications:
• Compound: Low-Metallic Carbon • Friction: 0.36 – 0.39 • Temp range: 0 – 600degC
Key features:
• 100 percent made in Japan with “world best practices” • Designed for use in applications where low temperature friction is required • Very high levels of modulation • Excellent all-round brake pad suitable for daily street use in high performance applications. • Works instantly from ambient temperatures • Provides long lasting pad life and rotor wear
For more information, visit www.motorsportbrakes.com.au
SACHS MAX 4X4 RANGE GROWS
These big bore shock absorbers are designed for standard and raised suspension setups
The SACHS MAX range of heavy-duty shock absorbers for off-road, four-wheel-drive and utility vehicles continues to expand, with ZF Services Australia set to add to the highly popular product line. Designed specifically with Australia’s harsh conditions in mind, the SACHS MAX offering features larger pistons and cylinders, with the increased bore size reportedly resulting in shock absorbers that are more durable, while continuing to offer the ultimate in safety. These new product lines will expand upon the current extensive line-up which includes many of the most popular vehicle types currently sold in Australia, including the Toyota HiLux and This big bore design results in a reduction of heat LandCruiser, the Isuzu D-Max, plus the Nissan and subsequently an improvement of consistency Navara and Patrol. with heavy loads in rough terrain, especially when towing. The full range covers the whole motoring spectrum, from 4WDs, utilities and vans, with For those looking to enhance their off-road parts also available for vehicles produced by capabilities, the SACHS MAX design allows for diverse manufacturers such as Foton, Great Wall, vehicle lifts of up to two inches. Holden, Jeep, Mitsubishi and Volkswagen. ZF Services Australia explains that the advantages Since the release of the SACHS MAX range nearly of SACHS MAX extend outside of off-road usage, two years ago, ZF Services Australia says the range with the shock absorbers also offering superior has been warmly received by a wide cross section comfort in the day-to-day city driving environment. of the motoring public, including serious off-road Added to the range in early 2021 will be new part numbers suitable for the Ford Ranger and Everest, Mazda BT-50, Isuzu MU-X, Holden Colorado and enthusiasts, trades people and caravanners, with the products also finding favour in markets across the south-east Asian region. Trailblazer, the Toyota Rav 4, plus the Hyundai For more information, visit www.sachsmaxshocks.com.au Santa Fe. or call 1800 ZF SALES (1800 937 2537).
DOES YOUR MAZDA BT-50 OR ISUZU D-MAX CARRY LOADS?
A Pedders GVM+ kit could offer you a certified GVM rating of 3450kgs
Pedders now offers a GVM+ upgrade solution for selected Mazda BT-50 and Isuzu D-Max models to assist in compliance for GVM and axle ratings. Through exhaustive and detailed testing, Pedders says its GVM+ Upgrade Kits have been approved by the (Commonwealth) Department of Infrastructure and Regional Development. Kit components including TrakRyder foam cell struts, coil springs, foam cell shock absorbers, leaf springs, u/bolts, leaf spring shackle bushes and front strut mounts can be supplied and installed at your approved Pedders GVM outlet to increase the payload of your Mazda BT-50 or Isuzu D-Max by up to 450kgs. All suspension components installed as part of a Pedders GVM+ upgrade package are backed by Pedders’ two- Year/40,000kms Nationwide Warranty. When the GVM+ upgrade kit has been installed to a new vehicle by the trained technicians at a Pedders GVM+ certified installer, a new compliance plate will be fitted. The new vehicle can then be registered with new increased GVM. This procedure will allow the vehicle to be legally registered and driven in all states of Australia. For vehicles that have already been road registered, the process varies from state to state. The vehicle may be required to be inspected by an authorised Automotive Engineer in that State and be issued with a compliance certificate. Pedders invites you to contact your local Pedders GVM+ approved outlet for further details.
For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au
BETTER TOGETHER
In this article, Bilstein explains why springs and dampers should be replaced in pairs
Bilstein says shock absorbers are a bit like teenagers: they feel most comfortable among their peers. Therefore, if one of the components fails due to wear, defect or accident, the counterpart on the other side of the axle should always be replaced as well. “Although this is not prescribed by law, technical expertise (says this) is required,” Head of the Bilstein Academy, Rainer Popiol, said. Bilstein says the background is quite understandable for the layperson: just like tyres, shock absorbers wear out with every kilometre travelled; extremely slowly, but steadily. As a result, the damping force decreases more and more. If a brand-new damper at the peak of its performance would be used together with an already aged specimen on the same axle, an imbalance would result. This can vary according to the degree of wear of the “senior partner,” but even small differences are enough to disturb the finely balanced system that is a suspension. “Even though the older damper may be quite good on its own, the decisive factor is that it no longer has the same damping force as the new part. And this is why agitation comes into the driving behaviour,” Rainer said. The negative aspects of such a “marriage” characterised by age difference are particularly pronounced in extreme driving situations. For example, if a quick evasive manoeuvre is necessary, many drivers are surprised at how unpredictable their car suddenly behaves. In the worst case, an accident occurs that could possibly have been avoided. According to Rainer, the recommendation to exchange per axle applies equally to suspension springs. Different degrees of wear can have an effect on driving behaviour also in this case. The combination of new springs and dampers on the one hand and relatively old components on the other would of course be particularly “dangerous.” In the worst case, the effect even increases itself over time, since on the “weaker side” the periphery is also subject to more wear. If the suspension geometry is adjusted in the course of this, even the tyres can ultimately wear out on one side. In the end, even initial savings are eaten up by the failure to replace shock absorbers or springs in pairs.
For more information, visit www.bilstein.com
XTREME OUTBACK LEADS THE WAY
ACS says the specialist division is “leading the world in range”
Xtreme Outback was introduced in 2003 as a specialist 4x4 and SUV division of Australian Clutch Services (ACS) and has since developed a comprehensive range of heavy-duty clutch upgrades and accessories for vehicles around the world. ACS says Xtreme Outback is a market leader in Australia and throughout a number of international markets, including Europe and the Middle East. The Xtreme Outback range includes dual-mass to single-mass flywheels, heavy-duty clutch upgrades in organic and ceramic friction materials, performance flywheels, hydraulics and accessories such as clutch forks. With an in-house research and development facility and experienced technical team, ACS says the Xtreme Outback product range has been carefully developed to offer superior quality, performance and driveability. “Our technical capabilities allow us to develop products quickly, often being first to market with performance upgrades, whilst still retaining the quality and performance that has been our fundamental advantage and the reason Xtreme Outback products are demanded by 4x4 enthusiasts around the world,” Australian Clutch Services Managing Director, Brenton Jordan, said. “We offer an unparalleled range of heavy-duty upgrades, hydraulics and accessories for 4x4 including coverage for niche vehicles.” Xtreme Outback is continuing to expand its export division. “We are continuing to see growth in our export division as well as throughout our Australian distribution network,” Brenton said. “With more and more demand around Australia for these upgrades and consumers looking for quality solutions that retain great driveability, we are seeing increased demand across all markets for both our upgrades and our accessories range.” Having the flexibility to adjust to a rapidly changing market, the team at Xtreme Outback says it is often first to market with upgrades for new vehicles and is also developing new products for older vehicles and even classic restoration applications. “One of our biggest advantages is our engineering and development capabilities,” Brenton said. “We are always looking for ways to enhance our range including the introduction of heavy-duty upgrades for new vehicles, niche vehicles and older vehicles that require even further performance. “For example, we have recently been working on upgrades for several Chinese manufactured vehicles that have entered the Australian market and are also developing Extra Heavy-Duty upgrades to suit heavily modified Hilux and Patrol models that require a clutch with a further increase in torque capacity.”
For more information, please visit www.xtremeoutback.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.
KEEP COOL UNDER PRESSURE
Exedy says it is committed to designing and manufacturing high-quality automotive aftermarket driveline products and is excited to announce the launch of its Coolmaster Offroad transmission cooler for 4WD. Acting on new car sales data, which revealed a trend towards multi-speed transmissions, Exedy’s research and development team analysed the Australian car parc which highlighted a gap in the market for a heavy-duty transmission cooler for 4WD that would exceed the performance of OEM built-in cooling systems. In addition, the team discovered that performance upgrades for both petrol and diesel 4WD vehicles are rapidly increasing and that owners of modified 4WDs were actively searching for transmission cooling solutions to complement their new-found engine performance. “Modern, multi-speed transmissions have to contend with an ever-increasing operating After having released its first GVM Upgrade kit earlier in the year for the 200 Series Toyota Landcruiser, Terrain Tamer has now expanded its range to include the popular VDJ78/79 models, including an option using Parabolic Springs. The Gross Vehicle Mass, or GVM, is a rating set by the original manufacturer, and refers to the legal maximum weight of the vehicle. This rating incorporates the wheels, as well as everything sitting atop – that is everything from the vehicle itself, bull bars, winches, fuel, people, water, food and the dog. Built into the GVM is also the imparted Tow Ball Mass when towing, and a Rated Axle Capacity, a limit set for how much weight should be distributed to each axle. temperature due to increased vehicle loads, towing capacities and the rigours of serious FourWheel-Driving,” Exedy Product Manager, Mark Davis, said. “When combined, these factors quickly highlight the inadequacies of OEM built-in cooling systems. “The result of which increase the wear rate of transmission components, ultimately reducing transmission life expectancy.” From the outset, Exedy’s primary objective was to develop a cost-effective solution to allow vehicle owners to reduce transmission operating temperatures, increase the longevity of their transmission and reduce transmission repair costs. “Initially, we investigated the existing cooling system to determine whether or not it would be possible to improve the cooling capacity utilising the existing infrastructure,” Mark said. “But our research proved that upgrading the existing infrastructure would not deliver the target reduction in operating temperature required.” As such, the team shifted its focus to developing a new transmission cooling system designed to work in unison with, or replace, the original components depending on the make and model of the vehicle. This changed the focus of Exedy’s research and development, the result of which is the innovative Coolmaster Offroad transmission cooler for 4WD. “Our oil cooler design is lightweight, compact and offers high levels of heat transfer and corrosion
NEW TERRAIN TAMER GVM KITS Consisting of exclusive Terrain Tamer suspension components
resistance, making it the most critical component Terrain Tamer has partnered with Multidrive Technology to develop its range of upgrade solutions for popular 4WD models which, when towing or loaded with essential off-road gear are often pushed to their GVM and axle loading limits. There are two kit options for the GVM upgrade of the VDJ78/79 Series Landcruiser, the first utilising Terrain Tamer’s anti-friction leaf springs, and the second offering the alternative of Parabolic Springs. Both kits facilitate an increase from the original rating of 3300kg (dual cab) or 3400kg (single cab) to either 3950kg or a more modest 3780kg, and have been independently assessed to increase the front axle rating to 1540kg, with the heavier rated kit adding an extra 140kg to the rear axle also, taking the rating to 2440kg. in the Coolmaster Offroad transmission cooler kit,” Mark said. Once prototypes of the oil cooler were available, a fleet of test vehicles was secured to allow the Exedy team to design mounting brackets to ensure that the kits would be easy to install, as well as being positioned to allow maximum airflow. Complete kits were fitted to test vehicles for an intensive off-road trial to test cooling performance, clearance and the rigidity of the mounting brackets. “Of course, every Exedy Coolmaster Offroad transmission cooler kit is supplied with fitting instructions outlining the simple step-by-step installation process,” Mark said. “But to make installation even easier, the instructions include images adding a visual reference for installers.” Exedy says there is no doubt that the Coolmaster Offroad transmission cooler for 4WD will assist vehicle owners to increase the longevity of their transmission and reduce transmission repair costs.
For more information, visit www.exedy.com.au
Consisting of exclusive Terrain Tamer suspension components, the kits have been thoroughly tested and analysed by Multidrive Technology to reach Secondary Stage Manufacturers’ approval and can be installed on existing registered vehicles at approved workshops and following state level modification processes. Terrain Tamer’s GVM upgrades are available now.
For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com
FRONT DIFF HOUSING REPLACEMENT Dwiz’s Super Strong Diff Housing product has a 500kg increased load rating
Axle load limits are becoming a more frequent problem with consumers seeking a higher GVM to customise their vehicles to suit their touring purposes. Dwiz says it has developed replacement housings to suit VDJ 70 series Landcruiser, Nissan Patrol, and 80/105 Landcruiser with an increased load rating of 500kg over factory housings. Based on years of experience and design and development, Dwiz says it offers not only a heavier rated housing, but also a much stronger
Tough yet comfortable off-road suspension
The Formula brand has grown from humble beginnings as a manufacturer of passenger Shock Absorber upgrades to an established 4x4 shock absorber and spring manufacturer. Many years ago, passenger cars were a massive market and Formula grew its range accordingly. Over the years, the 4WD market emerged and has become increasingly popular and although Formula was a growing brand at the time, it says it saw this as a great opportunity to dominate the upcoming 4x4 market. After meticulous research and development, analysis of the market, and engaging the 4x4 community, Formula says it began manufacturing 4x4 shocks and progressively expanding its range. Over the last few years, Formula 4x4 reports it has been steadily increasing its establishment and states it is now recognised as a well known and loved brand in the 4WD community. This year Formula has reported a massive spike in interest in its Formula Lift Kits, especially during COVID-19 where growth has been exponential. From March to October 2020, Formula says it housing with the use of its patented inner tube design. Dwiz says its design process has focused on areas where the factory housing is common to fail and is strengthened at all critical points to give you added piece of mind out in the bush. Dwiz says its Diff housing is so successful for the following reasons: • The inner tube and blocking give the housing its strength through a trussing effect at critical
FORMULA 4X4 LIFT KITS
points. sold 332 of just one type of Kit. ROD-011 is one of the many Formula 4x4 Lift Kits available, designed to fit and lift a Holden Colorado, Holden Rodeo, Isuzu D-Max, and Great Wall. Formula says this kit provides the ultimate handling and control, both on and off road. ROD-011 and the rest of the Formula 4x4 range is designed to improve your on and off-road driving experience, by gently supporting your vehicle through every bump and turn, giving you the most comfortable ride possible. Formula 4x4 explains that its shocks are built from high grade carbon steel, incorporating a proprietary valving system and anti-foaming technology, filled with ultra-high temperature Fuchs oil and using high temperature seals to maintain a low gas pressure for maximum fade free performance. Formula shocks also utilise a one-of-a-kind bushing specially designed for Formula shocks by SuperPro, which it says is known for being the best bushing manufacturer in the world. • Swivel balls are made from electroless nickel plated 4140 Chrome Moly steel. • Thicker material used in mounts and brackets. • Thicker necks at tube to avoid bending. • Its recovery point is perfect for snatching vehicles out of the bog in sand. Designs are available to suit models such as the 80 and 105 series Landcruiser, GQ and GU Patrol and 76,78 and 79 series with Super Strong Rear Housing (matching front track width). Tested in some of the world’s harshest off-road conditions, the Dwiz housing has reportedly been proven time and time again. Dwiz says you shouldn’t rely on standard housings to make it through the tough Australian conditions and states you should instead install a housing that is fully designed and tested to survive anything you throw at it.
For enquiries and sales, contact Todd on 0450 256 355 or email todd@dwizdiffhousings.com.au
Key features
• Low Pressure Nitrogen for fade free performance • Designed and built for Australian conditions • Tested and used by 4WD Action • SuperPro Hybrid bushings on all Front Struts • Specifically designed for each application • Valve coding to suit differing spring rates • Comfortable yet heavy duty 4WD Lift Kit • Big Bore design for improved heat dissipation • Tapered pegs on Front Struts for increased strength • Three-Year/60,000km Warranty
For more information, visit www.fulcrumsuspensions.com.au/formula-4x4
TENA FORCE LAUNCHED
KYB has launched a new range of heavy duty shock absorbers
KYB says it is excited to announce the launch of its Tena Force range of heavy duty shock absorbers. Designed specifically for vehicles and trailers which have had coil or leaf springs enhanced to carry or tow heavier payloads, KYB says the Tena Force range is sure to quickly gain popularity. “Our hardworking research and development team identified a need for a range of heavy duty shock absorbers that owners of commercial vehicles, trailer and caravans could choose as an upgrade from Original Equipment (OE),” KYB Australia Product Marketing Manager, Larry Coulthard, said. “To address this need we developed our range of Tena Force shock absorbers.”
Range differences
The Tena Force shock absorbers range is suitable for heavy duty applications, where owners are looking to maintain the standard vehicle height. “All Tena Force shock absorbers are valved to balance industry-leading heavy-duty coil and leaf springs, to ensure superior vehicle driveability and comfort while maintaining excellent on-road performance,” Larry said. “Depending on vehicle application, Tena Force shock absorbers incorporate a large 35mm bore and a firmer damping force valve calibration – between 20 percent to 35 percent on compression and rebound movements – from OE setting, making them perfect for heavy duty applications.”
Vehicle Application Type Construction Piston Bore Piston Rod Compression D/F Rebound D/F Colour
Tena Force
Standard Height Twin-tube Gas/Oil 35mm 16mm 20% - 35% Firmer 20% - 35% Firmer Silver
Skorched 4’s
Lifted Height – Up to 50mm Twin-tube Gas/Oil 35mm 16mm 20% - 30% Softer 60% - 80% Firmer Red
UNIQUE UPS ANTE IN 4WD MARKET
Unique Auto Parts is now stocking parts for Land Rover and Range Rover
Unique Auto Parts is excited to announce that containers of Land Rover and Range Rover Parts have begun to arrive to its branches. The team says they are now pleased to be able to offer parts for these makes in addition to the parts for all of the other makes it already has in stock, including Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Volkswagen, Audi, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche, Seat, Skoda, Volvo and now Range Rover and Land Rover – including parts for 4WD and commercial vehicles. Unique Auto Parts says it stocks all of the parts needed for 4WDs including brake and suspension components, electrical and ignition components, filters, alternators and starter motors, specialty tools, oils and lubricants and much more. Unique Auto Parts explains that it imports parts directly from the world’s leading manufacturers, including JP group, Quinton Hazell, Bosch, SKF, Trucktec, Victor Reinz, Hella, Mann, Behr, Pagid, Carlube, and many others. In addition to stocking general replacement and service parts, Unique Auto Parts says it has always strived to provide cost effective solutions for some of the more common problems that occur in 4WDs, such as supplying the rear bush and housing for Mercedes’ ML and GL W164 front lower control arms separately – eliminating the need to replace parts unnecessarily. Unique Auto Parts reports a similar issue is found with Porsche Cayennes and Volkswagen Touaregs when the centre tail shaft and mount fail due to wear. It says as a general rule the only option is to replace the entire tail shaft, an exercise which can run into the thousands. But instead, Unique In addition, to minimise overheating and fadeout while in operation, the Tena Force shock absorbers also incorporate an increased oil capacity. “We are expecting that consumers will quickly draw comparisons between Tena Force and our highly successful ‘Lifted Height, Heavy-Duty’ KYB Skorched 4’s shock absorber range,” Larry said. “Fundamentally the Tena Force utilises Skorched 4’s advanced construction methods and highquality componentry, but that is where the similarities end.” “Our new Tena Force range is perfect for vehicle owners looking for a ‘standard-height, heavy-duty’ shock absorber for urban driving and light offroad conditions,” Larry said. “While the Skorched 4’s range are for those who like to get a bit more adventurous and who enjoy medium to heavy off-road driving.”
For more information, visit www.kyb.com.au or call 1300 55 40 59
Auto Parts reports it can save you the hassle and the cost of doing this as it has sourced a German made repair kit which contains everything needed including a mount, bearing and grease. These kits are reportedly not available from genuine dealers and at just a fraction of price of a full replacement, Unique Auto Parts says they provide a cost-effective solution. Unique Auto Parts also offers a premium nationwide delivery service from five great locations around Australia using a combination of its own fleet of delivery vehicles and the fastest and most efficient couriers.
