Replacement Parts: Parts for your customers’ vehicles

TRW ELECTRIC BLUE BRAKE PAD

For electric and hybrid vehicles

In recent times ZF’s Aftermarket Division has focused on developing products specifically for the e-Drivetrain market, which has resulted in many new innovations, including the TRW Electric Blue brake pad. ZF says the TRW Electric Blue brake pad was the world’s first aftermarket brake pad for electric and hybrid vehicles. It has been NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) tested and is proven to create less noise and vibration.

The Electric Blue brake pad has been made with a “revolutionary” FMG 53 material that produces less NVH compared to standard material when supported by noise damping accessories. This is of significant benefit for electric vehicles as noises can be heard more clearly due to the lack of engine noise. The TRW Electric Blue also emits less dust into the atmosphere with the combination of the bespoke brake pad material and blue shims emitting up to 45 percent less particulate emissions during the braking process. ZF says further proof of its sustainability is that Electric Blue also emits less harmful metals (such as copper) which can pollute waterways. ZF is a global technology company suppling systems for passenger cars, commercial vehicles and industrial technology, enabling the next generation of mobility. In the four technology domains of Vehicle Motion Control, Integrated Safety, Automated Driving, and Electric Mobility, ZF says it offers comprehensive product and software solutions for established vehicle manufacturers and newly emerging transport and mobility service providers. ZF electrifies a wide range of vehicle types. With its products, the company contributes to reducing emissions, protecting the climate and enhancing safe mobility. For more information, visit www.trwbraking.com.au

A MORE ENJOYABLE RIDE

With Fram Filters

Established in 1932, Fram is a global filtration brand with 90 years of experience, research and development, which it says makes it a market leader in filter technology. Fram states that it designs, develops and manufactures filters to meet or exceed Original Equipment Manufacturer’s filtration specifications. Fram explains that its products are designed, engineered and manufactured in-house, with multimillion-dollar test rigs, giving them the capabilities to test OEM-ISO/SAE/JIC specifications. With the Summer season fast approaching, it is a pertinent time to prepare air conditioning systems for the hot weather ahead; and that includes replacing the sometimes unthought of and overlooked filter, which keeps unwanted dust and pollen particles out of the cabin. Fram says that whilst there are filters to protect engine components on a vehicle, the most important cargo is the driver and their passengers.

1. New Cabin Air Filter out of the box 0kms, 2. Used Cabin Air Filter after 60,000kms, 3. Used Cabin Air Filter after 200,000kms

Fram Cabin Air Filters allow travelers inside the vehicle to breathe cleaner air by filtering out pollen, allergens, exhaust fumes, dirt and dust that enter the vehicle through the cooling/heating ventilation. Fram Cabin Air Filters can reportedly eliminate up to 98 percent (road dust and pollen particles ranging in size from five - 100 microns) of these impurities, providing a more enjoyable ride. Fram says that it is the constant research, testing and development that helps to keep it up to date and at the forefront of the advancing technologies within the industry. For more information on Fram Filters, call 08 8193 9675 or visit www.framfilters.com.au

DIESEL EMISSION CONTROL REPAIR PARTS

GOSS has an expanding range of the most common replacement components for this area

There are plenty of conditions that will freeze water, and this is why automotive cooling systems use an antifreeze agent – but what about Diesel Exhaust Fluid (DEF) or AdBlu? DEF is typically made up of 67.5 percent water and 32.5 percent urea and has no antifreeze ingredients because of the precise catalyst reaction required during an SCR event. So, in theory, AdBlu freezing in Australia is possible, so manufacturers utilise DEF heaters throughout their systems to keep the fluid from freezing and maintain a set temperature which allows for an effective reduction of NOx during catalysation. A DEF control module is responsible for driving the DEF heater, reading a number of sensor inputs that can include the DEF tank temperature sensor, DEF supply pump temperature sensor and ambient air temperature sensor. With data from these sensors combined, the heating element is instructed to warm the ureabased fluid within the storage tank. The DEF heater is only one component of a Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) solution. It has multiple temperature inputs, running conditions and multiple modes of operation, from basic heating, thermal control, and start-up modes. As more vehicles arrive in Australia with Euro 6 emissions standards, the complexities of emission control are growing exponentially – and likewise are component failures. GOSS says that thankfully, it has an expanding range of parts, including some of the most common replacement components needed by vehicle repairers dealing with modern diesel emission control repairs such as DEF heaters, EGR valve assemblies, EGT sensors, DPS pressure sensors and EGR coolers. GOSS states it is a leading provider of Genuine Alternative aftermarket and Original Equipment Supplier (OES) parts, with more than 75 years’ sourcing and developing the world’s leading OES and aftermarket parts. For more information, find your nearest GOSS stockist or visit www.goss.com.au

VCM PERFORMANCE ON THE MOVE

The company is in expansion mode

After more than 30 years servicing, tuning and restoring high performance vehicles while being at the forefront of developing performance related products and systems, VCM Performance says its team is now in an expansion mode with the business to soon move to a new facility. With the distribution of the HP Tuners product a major cornerstone of the business, it was natural that VCM Performance would develop other high performance related products to sit alongside and complement the HP Tuners software packages. One product highlight to enhance the ability to extract more performance using HP Tuners software has been VCM Performance’s own cold air intakes and camshaft packages. VCM Performance says its range of OTR cold air intakes have been market leaders in creating real world performance gains, with OEM appearance. A term frequently quoted by the team is “our OTRs are often copied by others, but never equalled.” Alongside the OTR packages, VCM Performance has its own range of performance camshafts and componentry developed to maximise the performance of the engines once tuned with HP Tuners software. This range of products has reportedly taken the LS market by storm in Australia and New Zealand and is proving a hit with engine builders and tuners throughout the country. Over recent years, VCM Performance has grown not only its own range of products but has also become the exclusive Australian distributor for several iconic performance brands, including HP Tuners, Magnuson Superchargers, K&N and AEM intake and filters, Improved Racing Products and Deatschwerks fuel systems, to name a few. VCM Performance is also now the appointed New Zealand distributor for the K&N and AEM intake and filters and is looking to grow the number of products it supports into New Zealand, along with supplying Australian customers. VCM Performance is also the authorised distributor for such brands as Dayco, Powerbond, Tuffmounts, Brisk spark plugs, Melling oil pumps, ATI Racing products, Manley Products, PSI springs, and GM performance products amongst others, and has an inventory of over 10,000 SKUs and growing. VCM Performance says it is an exciting time for its team, which is now in the final planning stages of the move to a new premises covering 1500 square feet of warehouse and modern office space. The move has been made to lay the foundations for the growth of the brands that VCM currently manage and to allow for an increase to the number of brands and products that are constantly coming in to supplement the existing range. For more information, visit www.vcmperformance.com.au

DBA LAUNCHES ALL NEW RANGE

The new Street Series EV brake pads range has been designed for Electric and Hybrid Vehicle applications

Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) explains that a commitment to offering the right product for the application has guided its product strategy for many decades. Developing a brake pad specifically for the growing population of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles on Australian roads was therefore the next logical step in DBA’s long history of product innovations. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles have slightly different braking requirements, necessitating a change of friction material from the current, common material composition as used, for example, in DBA’s Street Series brake pads offering. EVs primarily use engine braking, where the vehicle slows down when the accelerator pedal is released. This engages an alternator, which is used to generate energy that is fed back into the vehicle’s battery pack, a process known as regenerative braking. At low speed, the regenerative braking does not engage as efficiently and is reliant on the traditional brake system. At the same time, the weight of Electric and Hybrid Vehicles in comparison to conventional vehicles of the same size is substantially higher, resulting in the requirement for more stopping power. Changing to a higher friction co-efficient addresses this requirement. DBA engineers have opted for a friction co-efficient approximately 10 percent higher (SAEJ522 Dyno-tested) compared with the company’s Street Series pads to produce optimal friction at low speeds. Secondly, with regenerative braking responsible for most of the retardation of the vehicle, the conventional brakes on an EV operate less frequently and work less hard than that of an ICE vehicle, resulting in lower average operating temperatures and potential residual contamination on the brakes rotors. With all DBA friction material developed for optimal performance under the respective conditions, the all-new EV friction composition accounts for the lower operating temperatures whilst delivering maximum stopping power. Electric and Hybrid Vehicles are quiet, so the demands placed on the materials from a comfort perspective are even higher than for conventional vehicles. DBA states the new friction material and shim for Electric and Hybrid Vehicles is an evolution up from any existing designs, allowing for extra noise and vibration reduction. The Street Series EV ceramic friction material has low dust (low particle emissions) and is copper-free, ensuring cleaner wheels, longer brake rotor life and a greener, environmentally friendly product. It is ‘N’ rated by the NSFI and has passed the AMECA certification, backing DBA’s commitment to minimising environmental impact and meeting strict US copper content requirements due to be introduced in full by 2025. DBA’s Street Series EV brake pads range features a unique, silver label design for ease of identification. Both the label and the backing plate feature DBA’s unique, trademarked EV logo which DBA says gives you the peace of mind you “are buying the best product on the market.” The new EV and Hybrid Vehicle Street Series brake pads are part of DBA’s comprehensive range of over 1,300 SKUs of brake pads, which DBA says ensures you always have the right pad for the application. DBA summarises the key features as follows: • Silver titanium stripe improves the initial friction co-efficient during bedding in period • Ceramic, copper-free (NSFI rated) formulation with AMECA certification, backing DBA’s commitment to minimising environmental impact • OE-style, post-cured process for optimal braking performance over the pad life • Delivers on safety, low noise, wear resistance and environmental protection as the standards for DBAs approach to development. • Passes the US City Traffic Noise and Wear Test, due to superior noise-reduction attributes. • Contains hardware and wear sensors where applicable For further information, visit www.dba.com.au or call DBA Customer Service on 1800 730 039.

ADRAD ADDS WHEEL HUBS AND BEARING ASSEMBLIES

The Adrad product portfolio is expanding

Adrad has just added a collection of high-quality wheel hubs and bearing assemblies from leading suppliers GMB and Ultima to its extensive automotive parts range. Adrad says GMB and Ultima are recognised for their craft and collectively boast over 80 years of experience in the automotive industry. It states their expertise is demonstrated with products designed to meet or exceed OEM specifications, exhibiting excellent durability and performance. Using high quality materials and expert construction, these parts are said to be made to last, with results that have been proven during internal testing. In particular, Adrad outlines that the GMB bearings range is made using a high strength GR15 steel. It explains that this is subjected to a proprietary process to achieve maximum hardness. Finally, the steel is treated with a G10 glass fibre finish, which is one of the toughest resins available. Adrad says this treatment is proven to reduce premature scoring and increase longevity, which in testing lasted over one hundred thousand kilometres. Another crucial element is quality bearing grease. Adrad explains that the range utilises a special formulation to increase lubrication and achieve enhanced thermal dissipation, water wash-out resistance and improved ability to lock in oils for optimal performance. It states these bearings are not only made with premium materials but are also designed intelligently. Using triple and quadruple lip sealing technology, this design utilises high-temperature-resistant rubber to maximise protection against dust, water, and road debris. Adrad says this is just one of the many features that increases the longevity of the bearing. As a testament to their excellent performance and reliability, wheel hubs and bearing assemblies supplied by Adrad are all are backed by a twoyear/40K warranty. Available from Adrad and Natrad Trade Online, the parts range suits a variety of popular vehicle makes including Holden, Ford, Toyota, Nissan, Audi, Volkswagen, Skoda, Subaru, Hyundai, Kia, Lexus, Mitsubishi, Jeep, and Daihatsu. For more information, contact Adrad on 1800 882 043 or email customerservice@adrad.com.au

UNICLUTCH BY CLUTCH INDUSTRIES

Universal kits to satisfy the majority of the Australian car parc

In 2018 Mantic Engineering (the R&D division of Clutch Industries) started a project to develop a universal clutch system aimed to solve two key requirements, firstly to reduce thousands of clutch SKUs into a couple of clutch SKUs and to decrease installation time for mechanics. The Universal Clutch (UniClutch) only requires two clutch SKUs, one eight-inch and one 10-inch version to cover over 90 percent of the Australian passenger and light commercial car parc.

This is done through innovative and patented technology, which includes a removable spline, multi-fit flywheel mount, height adjustment system and radial dampening centre technology. These technologies make it possible to supply workshops with a comprehensive clutch range without needing large space or capital investment for parts distributors. The UniClutch system is a sealed system that does not require the flywheel as a friction surface. This means that unlike in a normal clutch installation job, the flywheel does not need to be removed and replaced or ground. Instead, the flywheel can remain on the vehicle and the UniClutch is then bolted directly to the OEM flywheel. The UniClutch comes delivered to the mechanic pre-assembled, which means there’s no need to align the clutch discs as this is already done. As the clutch system is sealed and preassembled, Clutch Industries says it tests every unit for all relevant specifications to 100 percent confirm the clutch will operate correctly. It states no other clutch manufacturer has ever created a universal clutch system like this as the technology did not exist. For more information, visit www.uniclutch.com

FULCRUM GVM UPGRADE RELEASED

Now available for LandCruiser 200 Series

Continuing on from the success of the recent F4R launch, Fulcrum has just released its first Formula 4x4 GVM upgrade kit with many more to follow. Its first GVM upgrade kit is for the Toyota LandCruiser 200 Series (2007–2021) and increases its gross vehicle mass to 4,000kg. The GVM upgrade legally allows the vehicle to carry a bigger, heavier load without compromising performance and handling, both on-road and offroad. Fulcrum notes that people with highly optioned four-wheel drives do not realise their vehicle’s weight especially once they have a full cabin. The company says its team sees it time and time again and notes that it doesn’t take much to go over the legal maximum weight once accessories, canopies and trays are added to a vehicle. That is why it says the Formula GVM upgrade kit is the smart choice. The GVM upgrade kit adds a 40–50mm lift to the 200 Series once installed and is fully engineered, approved and certified. It includes Formula’s signature low-pressure nitrogen Big Bore shocks for improved heat dissipation providing longer performance and extreme comfortability. By default, the kit also includes an aftermarket SuperPro upper control arm kit to ensure the vehicle has the correct wheel geometry once it leaves each workshop. Included with the GVM kit is Fulcrum’s standard five-year/unlimited kilometre warranty and importantly the upgrade does not affect the manufacturer warranty. Fulcrum also notes that each of its GVM kits once installed to a vehicle will be mod-plated and engineered to state compliance, covering all legal requirements. With all components as well as on and off-road factors considered, Fulcrum is confident that the Formula kit is the most comfortable GVM upgrade on the market today – stating they are designed, tested and built for Australian conditions. For more information, call Fulcrum on 1800 385 278 or visit www.fulcrumsuspensions.com.au

NARVA GEN III LED RANGE EXPANDED

Signalling and interior globes have been added to the range

The release of Narva’s new GEN III LED signalling globes provides vehicle owners with a complete incandescent globe replacement solution, delivering added brightness and reliability for indicators, brake lights, number plate and reverse lights. Narva says this plug and play replacement produces a crisp, white 2700°K quality light, to develop an amazing 20 percent greater output behind coloured lenses, while also offering reduced current draw. A further benefit of the new Gen III LED globes is CANBUS compatibility ensuring they work seamlessly with modern vehicle computer systems, while the indicator globes are resistorfree providing a smooth and measured flash pattern. Also new to the Gen III range is a selection of interior LED globes, that Narva says increases output by 140 percent compared to standard incandescent globes, to better illuminate the cabin. The new Gen III LED range is available in both 12 and 24V and in a wide selection of fitments and sizes including T10 Wedge (interior/park/ tail/numberplate), T20 Wedge (stop/tail), 12/24V Festoon (interior/numberplate), High Power Reverse 1500lm and Bayonet. The latest globes can be purchased from leading automotive and 4x4 stockists and are designed for off road use only. For more information, visit www.narva.com.au

BENDIX BRAKING SOLUTIONS

Quality products to improve performance and reduce brake fade

Through its Ultimate, Ultimate 4WD and Euro+ Disc Brake Rotors, Bendix says it offers packages for a range of passenger cars and four wheel drives. It notes that its products increase braking performance and help reduce brake fade. Brake fade doesn’t just happen on the racetrack, it can also occur in passenger cars, four-wheel-drives and commercial vehicles particularly under heavy braking conditions and during hotter temperatures. It leads to a temporary reduction in braking performance that’s caused by the added heat that’s generated from repeated or sustained braking or braking under heavy loads. When the heat doesn’t effectively dissipate, the braking becomes compromised. Such conditions can arise more than we realise through the course of day-to-day driving – think of a heavily accessorised four-wheel-drive with larger tyres, or a passenger car towing a caravan descending a large hill or mountain road. For large trucks the effects are even greater, which is why so many are equipped with secondary technology such as retarders and engine and exhaust brakes, which help to further slow them down without solely relying on friction-based braking systems. When brake fade occurs it’s predominantly because the disc brake pads have exceeded their maximum operating temperature range, this affects the friction material which begins to deteriorate. The process can cause the pads to leave matter on the rotors, lubricating them and making braking less effective. Brake fade can also occur if the brake fluid overheats. If the fluid boils from prolonged braking any moisture within vapourises, which makes the fluid more compressible, this results in longer brake pedal travel and reduced braking effectiveness. Drivers can minimise the likelihood of brake fade in several ways, beginning with ensuring the braking system is in good working order – upgrading some components might also be considered if the vehicle is regularly used in situations where the brakes are worked hard. Bendix notes that its Ultimate, Ultimate 4WD and Euro+ Disc Brake Rotors cater for a range of passenger cars and four wheel drives, providing increased braking performance and help to reduce brake fade. In the case of brake fluid, Bendix says the quality should be regularly checked to ensure it doesn’t contain excessive moisture, which will erode performance considerably. Bendix further warns that brake pads that haven’t been properly ‘bedded in’ can make the brakes more susceptible to fading. However, for users of Bendix brake pads it says this won’t be a concern because the Bendix range features Blue Titanium Stripe technology, meaning there is instant pedal feel from the first brake application and longer-term protection to minimise fading. Another important way to reduce brake fade is by changing driving habits – driving more slowly and with greater mechanical sympathy, especially in more demanding conditions, will result in less pressure being placed on the braking system. Bendix says that with a more considered driving style and some Bendix braking system enhancements, brake fade can largely be eliminated. 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), e-mail brakeadvicecentre@bendix.com.au or visit www.bendix.com.au

OLD MAN EMU SUSPENSION

Available from ARB

Suspension systems, especially when referring to 4WDs, are extremely complex. Determining the right solution for each 4WD requires special attention to many factors, with weight being the most critical. Old Man Emu 4x4 suspension by ARB approaches this in a unique way, says ARB, with one example being the Nitrocharger Sport shock absorber. Nitrocharger Sport

Where the purpose of a spring is to carry the load of a vehicle and its cargo, a shock absorber works to control the spring by absorbing excess energy and in doing so, has a profound impact on your vehicle’s ride and handling. During the development of Old Man Emu’s Nitrocharger Sport shock absorbers, particular focus was placed on how well they are matched to the specific springs they’ll be controlling. Ride Control Engineers tailored shock absorber valving to work with the different springs in the range, often resulting in multiple shock absorber options for each vehicle. Suspension for your vehicle

ARB says a range of suspension options are available for your vehicle. To have a suspension package customised to your requirements, it invites you to contact your nearest ARB store or stockist. A wide range of integrated parts

Instead of offering a compilation of parts that have been chosen primarily to increase the vehicle’s ride height, OME 4x4 suspension provides a range of tuned, matched and integrated systems, each offering optimum levels of comfort, load carrying capability and control characteristics. The complete Old Man Emu suspension range incorporates more than just 4x4 shock absorbers and springs, with ARB stating it takes integration to the highest level with its own selection of bushes, U bolts, centre bolts, spring liners, trim packers and suspension fitting kits. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au

BILSTEIN TALKS SUSPENSION COMPONENTS

More than just shock absorbers and springs

As part of its video series “Suspension fundamentals – powered by Bilstein Academy,” the experts from the Bilstein Academy regularly provide valuable practical tips for automotive professionals. In the fourth episode, Bilstein Academy Head Rainer Popiol and Mustafa Yavuz from Bilstein Technical Support focus on suspension components that are often literally overshadowed by shock absorbers and springs – and yet are extremely important. Motorists can also look forward to a little something extra. When we talk about the suspension of a car, we usually only talk about shock absorbers and springs. However, suspension components such as the strut bearing, the dust boot and the pressure stop are just as important. And quite a few of these components should always be replaced when shock absorbers are exchanged. Regularly check suspension components such as wishbones, coupling rods and tie rods

To ensure driving safety and comfort, all suspension components must be checked regularly. For example, during the suspension check, but at the latest when shock absorbers need to be replaced. Like the strut bearing, for example. “The strut bearing is the link between the suspension and the chassis on the vehicle, which also enables the rotational movement of a McPherson strut,” said Mustafa, who is responsible for technical support for workshops at Bilstein Technical Support. Other add-on parts such as the coupling rods and stabilisers, the wishbones, tie rod ends and track rods also need to be checked, as they ensure the correct axle geometry. When replacing the shock absorber, also replace the dust boot and the pressure stops

Whenever shock absorbers are replaced, the dust boot and the pressure stop should also be exchanged. For good reason – after all, they fulfil important tasks in the “suspension system,” as Mustafa explains. “The dust boot has the task of protecting the shock absorber, the piston rod as well as the locking package from stone chipping,” Mustafa said. “The compression buffer limits the travel of the spring so that the components are protected, and the free movement of the wheel is ensured.” Rainer recommends that once it has been determined which parts are needed, an initial look at the online catalogue at Bilstein.com is a good idea. “I can make an initial pre-selection here and then also see what information is stored: is there a normal standard replacement damper, is there perhaps the Bilstein B6, the high-performance damper, which we have tested again specifically in the road test?” Rainer said. “And also importantly: which add-on parts do I need? It is all in this online catalogue.” The parts can then be ordered from the dealer or wholesaler. Incidentally, all standard spare parts from Bilstein always offer the same fit as the OE parts, says Rainer. Easy ordering and installing suspension components

When it comes to installing suspension components, it is always important to the suspension professionals at Bilstein that the process runs smoothly in the workshop, so Bilstein puts a focus on the installation instructions. “If we find that the vehicle manufacturer’s installation instructions cause problems, we make our own assembly instructions and also provide further information, such as videos,” Rainer said. If all else fails, the experts at the Bilstein Academy are on hand to help. Bilstein says workshop professionals can always contact Bilstein’s technical support by e-mail or by phone, even if the vehicle is on the lifting platform and information is needed quickly. Tips for correct installations

Speaking of installation, one of the topics covered by the Bilstein Academy in the “Suspension Fundamentals – powered by Bilstein Academy” series is tips for the correct installation of air suspension, as cars with these systems become more and more popular. As is so often the case with innovative technologies, even experienced automotive professionals are often apprehensive about working on air suspension systems. However, Bilstein says they need not be, stating the challenges aren’t that great. It explains that yes, working with products such as the B4 air suspension module or the B3 air spring from Bilstein involves special requirements, but if mechanics and mechatronics engineers follow a few basics, the replacement of air suspension components can be mastered without any great problems. The assessment and identification of defects is carried out somewhat differently than in the case of problems with a conventional suspension system. Since the air suspension module is designed as an enclosed component, unlike the familiar suspension struts with open shock absorber and separate spring, oil leaks cannot usually be detected. This makes further checks all the more important. In particular, a test drive to check for noises and driving stability is critical. In addition, automotive professionals can actuate the solenoid valves in order to check the condition of these components. For more information on this topic including an example case of replacing the air suspension of the AirMatic Mercedes E-Class series 211, and many other helpful tips, Bilstein invites you to check out the “Suspension Fundamentals – powered by Bilstein Academy” video series today. For more information, visit workshop.bilstein.com

DPF REPLACEMENT OR DEEPER ISSUE?

SWD says you should ask the following questions to save time and build trust

The Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) is a Filter mounted in the exhaust of diesel vehicles, designed to reduce the particulate emissions between 85 percent and 99 percent. DPFs are high-cost items that customers don’t want to fork out for unnecessarily, so questions need to be asked before deciding a replacement is needed. It is very possible that the DPF doesn’t need to be replaced, and the customer may just need to fix an underlying issue and perform a forced DPF regeneration. However, the DPF may be too damaged or blocked to be able to regenerate to correct working order. The following questions are designed to ensure a DPF is only replaced when necessary, and that all factors involved in the cause of failure have been taken into consideration and can be resolved before a new DPF is fitted. SWD says this will help to minimise any possible warranty claims as an expense to both the technician and their customer as well as build trusting relationships. Questions the technician needs to ask: • Why is the customer replacing the DPF? • What is the cause of failure to the current DPF on the vehicle? • Are there any underlying issues with the vehicle that may have caused the DPF to block? • How many kilometers does the vehicle have on it (odometer reading)? • Has the DPF reached its maximum soot level capacity (usually due to age or high kms)? • Has the customer carried out a manual DPF regeneration? • Has the vehicle gone into “limp mode”? • Has the vehicle had a scan tool connected to check for any fault codes? • Has the vehicle had a Diesel tune or ECU

Remap? Common issues that can cause a DPF to block: • Split intercooler hoses – will cause over boost or over fueling. • Leaky intercooler – will cause over boost or over fueling. • DPF pressure sensors – will cause DPF to block (regen can’t occur). • Glow Plugs – will cause DPF to block (regen can’t occur). • Split DPF pressure pipes – will cause DPF to block. • Leaky injectors – will cause over fueling. • Fuel pressure – can cause over fueling. • Tune or Ecu Remap – can cause over fueling. • Engine Wear – can cause engine oil and contaminates to reach the DPF. • Turbo Vane actuator issues – can cause over fueling or under boosting. • EGR blockages – will cause an increased number of engine particulates. For replacement parts including DPFs, CATs, universal mufflers and more, visit trade.swd.com.au

NEW MEYLE CONTROL ARM FOR TESLA

MEYLE has launched an “improved” control arm to solve Tesla Model 3 and Model Y squeaking problem

Since the beginning of the year, more and more drivers of the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y all over the world have reported an irritating squeaking sound. In response, spare parts manufacturer MEYLE AG unveiled a solution at Automechanika 2022: the new MEYLE HD control arm for Tesla Model 3 and Model Y. Developed from the ground up, MEYLE says the high-quality product will be available to Tesla drivers and workshops around the globe from early 2023. MEYLE says it offers a technically redeveloped solution which ensures Tesla’s typical driving fun, without the irritating squeaking. It also notes there is another benefit, stating that thanks to collaboration with ClimatePartner, the MEYLE part is climate neutral. “Many everyday objects can begin to squeak after a certain period of time,” MEYLE Head of Steering and Suspension, Stefan Bachmann, said. “But we weren’t expecting this to happen with the Tesla. We’re connected with car enthusiasts around the world and always have our finger on the pulse of the latest trends and acute issues. Particularly when it comes to sensitive suspension technology, we immediately set out in search of a potential solution. “Because we’re driven by principle, we wanted to get to the bottom of this strange squeaking sound straightaway.” After numerous evaluations, the development team determined that the Tesla control arm had been designed with insufficient moisture protection. MEYLE says rain drains directly from the windscreen onto the control arm and penetrates the ball joint, which ultimately leads to the unwelcome, irritating squeaking sound and, in rare cases, can compromise steering precision. High performance potential and the increased weight typical of electric vehicles can take a heavy toll on the suspension components, subjecting the control arm to enormous stress. Even the bushings can wear sooner under this extreme strain. MEYLE says it is usually the squeaking sound coming from the upper control arm on the front axle that warns drivers of the damage, while others report a rattling sound coming from the suspension. “Being able to hold the first prototype of a future HD part in our hand after having identified a weakness, looked into the causes and performed development work and countless tests is a special moment for us every time,” Stefan said. “Especially for a premium car like a Tesla. After all, moments like these are precisely why we do our best every day.” When it came to reengineering the MEYLE HD control arm for the Tesla, Stefan explains four key changes resulted in success: 1. A sturdy control arm body made from highstrength, forged aluminium improves rigidity and reduces weight compared to the original, which is made from a combination of steel

AUTO ONE OFFERS DBA

DBA Brake Pads are part of Auto One’s product portfolio

Established in 1988, Auto One says it is a champion of the independent network in Australia. Hosting two banner groups, Auto One and A1 Autoparts, the Auto One group has more than 80 stores Australia-wide and explains it remains the only independently owned national chain in the automotive parts industry. “Already home to over 170 industry brands, Auto One is honoured to be working with DBA to deliver its range of Street Series products to the Australian Market,” Auto One Head of Merchandise, Sean Hegarty, said. “DBA’s product offering exemplifies our commitment to quality and customer safety.” Auto One says as Australia’s number one disc rotor manufacturer and complete ‘brake solution’ supplier, DBA has unmatched engineering and manufacturing expertise in the automotive industry. “Their quality products bring safety to your vehicle and have been recognised through over 16 manufacturing awards from the AAAA and was rated number one for technical expertise in brake rotors by Australian workshops,” Sean said. “The Street Series brake pad range uses a friction formulation to outperform OE level products, meaning you can get a genuine quality product at a much smaller price tag.” Auto One explains that DBA’s uncompromised focus is on quality, performance, and safety1 . It states this is exemplified through their development of friction formulations to achieve a friction coefficient that outperforms the current market standard. Consequently, DBA does not just settle on one formulation, but offers either ceramic or semimetallic formulations depending on the application and required performance of your vehicle.

and plastic. Optimised with the finite element method (FEM), the design also ensures high safety reserves with a low net weight. 2. The design of the ball joint forgoes the use of crimping, thus eliminating water penetration, preventing standing water and ensuring absolute tightness. The issue of water penetrating the original Tesla control arm is therefore eliminated. 3. The ball joint itself has a larger diameter than the original part and can distribute forces across a bigger surface, which is essential for a durable spare part, considering the large and frequent loads the high-performance vehicles are exposed to. 4. The bushings, too, have been optimised, which also increases service life. MEYLE says intensive development goes into each and every MEYLE HD part, which is why the spare parts specialist provides a four-year guarantee for the HD control arm for the Tesla Model 3 and Model Y, just as it does for all its other HD parts. For more information, visit www.meyle.com

The Street Series brake pads complement DBA’s long-established, market-leading range of Street Series disc rotors, and can be used in passenger cars, SUVs and Light Commercial Vehicles. Customers can select the best DBA product suitable for their vehicle at any Auto One store, where an Auto One Team Member can provide advice on what DBA product will work best for their needs. For more information and store locations, please visit www.autoone.com.au