Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - September 2020 by aaaa710

SEPTEMBER 2020

ALL THE LATEST IN DIESEL PARTS

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT SOLUTIONS

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

ABOUT THE COVER CoolDrive Auto Parts is fast growing a reputation as a market leader in brakes, with a wide selection of product lines now offered.

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar................................................ 4 New Members........................................ 4 AAAA Report ......................................... 5 News..................................................... 6 Products.............................................. 24

Inside Business.................................... 81 Consumer Law...................................... 82 HR Matters.......................................... 83 PRTC.................................................. 84 4WD.................................................... 86

KEEPING YOU INFORMED The Melbourne Metro RoadMap................................................................................... 6 AAAExpo rescheduled ................................................................................................ 7 Mental Health Pilot in Automotive Industry................................................................... 8 Evolution of the New Zealand auto market.................................................................... 9 A changing Australian carparc.................................................................................... 10 New Capricorn loyalty program released...................................................................... 11 Strong recoveries and hard hits ................................................................................. 12 hsy commits long term to Liqui Moly.......................................................................... 15

FEATURES Cover Story: CoolDrive Auto Parts’ Brake Program has you covered ................................ 16 Product R&D: New JB Weld products .......................................................................... 22 Member Feature: Repco - Building a resilient team drives growth and delivers value......... 56 Towing & Frontal Protection: Looking after your customers’ towing needs......................... 58 Diesel: All the latest in diesel parts............................................................................. 72 Trade Talk: Tanya Ghosn - Staying fluid breeds success................................................ 78 Milstones: BFGOODRICH and NGK............................................................................. 80 In the Workshop: Celebrating apprentices..................................................................... 88

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

CAB Audited

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

EDITOR Allan Edwards

EDITORIAL Tel 61 3 9372 9125

PRODUCTION MANAGER Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121

Official publication of the AAAA

ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333

PUBLISHER Cameron McLachlan

All material appearing in Australian Automotive Aftermarket magazine is copyright. Reproduction in whole or in part is strictly forbidden without prior written consent. Contribution: Freelance contribution and submissions are welcomed by this magazine. No responsibility is accepted for unsolicited manuscripts, photographs and transparencies. The opinions expressed by contributors are not necessarily those of the AAAA. All statements made, although based on information believed to be reliable and accurate, cannot be guaranteed and no fault or liability can be accepted for error or omission. The publisher reserves the right to omit or alter any advertisement and the advertiser agrees to indemnify the publisher for all damages or liabilities arising from the published material.

AAAA NEWS

NEW MEMBERS

CALENDAR 2020-2021 Taipei AMPA Hall 1 & 2, Nangang Exhibition Center, Taipei, Taiwan 21 – 24 October 2020 www.taipeiampa.com.tw

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

ADR Compliance Services 78 Francis Street LEICHHARDT NSW 2040 Ph: 0412 546 825 E: peter@adrcompliance.com.au

G Force Compliance Unit 3/9 Maxwell Place NARELLAN NSW 2567 Ph: 0409 233 597 E: greg@gforcecompliance.com.au

All Outdoor Power Equipment 7 Allira Place HASSALL GROVE NSW 2761 Ph: 0414 313 486 E: scottherning@gmail.com

John Oste Engineering 2/40 Lionel Street INGLEBURN NSW 2565 Ph: 0439 440 203 E: johnoste@live.com.au

ARB Bunbury 12 George Street BUNBURY WA 6230 Ph: 08 9721 2099 E: pennygarvey@westnet.com.au

Kernow Engineering Pty Ltd 17 Catto Close ORANGE NSW 2800 Ph: 0429 450 222 E: treeve@kernowengineering.com.au

Auto Masters Ashby 6 Hollosby Way ASHBY WA 6065 Ph: 08 6355 6898 E: ashby@automasters.com.au

Kreative Enterprises Pty Ltd Unit 17/124 Ham Street SOUTH WINDSOR NSW 2756 Ph: 0408 218 478 E: kreativeent@bigpond.com

Auto Masters Bassendean Unit 2, 335 Collier Road BASSENDEAN WA 6054 E: bassendean@automasters.com.au

Leeder Automotive Services 2 Edward Street GUILDFORD WEST NSW 2161 Ph: 0412 208 919 E: tjleeder@optusnet.com.au

Auto Masters Dianella Shop FS005, Dianella Plaza, 360 Grand Prom DIANELLA WA 6059 Ph: 08 6244 6161 E: dianella@automasters.com.au

Nunawading Engine Clinic 6A Beech Street NUNAWADING VIC 3131 Ph: 03 9873 3462 E: vas@nunawadingengineclinic.com.au Pedders Suspension & Brakes Maribyrnong 155 Rosamond Street MARIBYRNONG VIC 3032 Ph: 03 8330 5922 E: maribyrnong@pedders.com.au

Auto Masters Midland 3/ 245 Great Eastern Highway MIDLAND WA 6056 Ph: 08 9274 4677 E: midland@automasters.com.au

Rod Bods Downunder Lot 119 Pacific Highway NABIAC NSW 2312 Ph: 0415 817 425 E: rodbods@hotmail.com

Auto Masters Munno Para 235 Curtis Road SMITHFIELD PLAINS SA 5114 E: munnopara@automasters.com.au

Performance Racing Industry Trade Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 10 – 12 December 2020 www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow

SJR Industries 44 Willandra Avenue GRIFFITH NSW 2680 Ph: 02 6964 5783 E: shane@sjrindustries.com.au

Auto Masters Pooraka 224 Bridge Road POORAKA SA 5095 Ph: 08 8262 4091 E: pooraka@automasters.com.au

Tough Gear Engineering 20 Raws Crescent HUME ACT 2620 Ph: 0414 543 084 E: toughgear@bigpond.com

Black Snow 26 / 45-51 Huntley Street ALEXANDRIA NSW 2015 Ph: 02 9011 5211 E: mark@blacksnow.com.au

Ultra Tune Airlie Beach 2 McIntosh Drive CANNONVALE QLD 4802 Ph: 07 4948 1142 E: airliebeach@ultratune.com.au

Classic Automotive Pty Ltd PO Box 1048 PENRITH NSW 2751 Ph: 0499 484 814 E: mick@classic-automotive.com.au

Ultra Tune Eagleby 128 River Hills Road EAGLEBY QLD 4207 Ph: 07 3801 8688 E: eagleby@ultratune.com.au

Commercial Vehicle Compliance Pty Ltd PO Box 278 HALLAM VIC 3803 Ph: 03 9005 6256 E: darren@cvc.net.au

Automechanika Dubai Dubai World Trade Centre 7 – 9 September 2021 www.automechanika-dubai.ae.messefrankfurt.com

Curratechnic Pty Ltd 9 Madeira Avenue KINGS LANGLEY NSW 2147 Ph: 02 9620 8475 E: curratec@bigpond.com.au

Ultra Tune Marsden Park T-07 Trades & Services Centre, 11 Darling St MARSDEN PARK NSW 2765 Ph: 02 8856 1814 E: marsdenpark@ultratune.com.au

Evo Compliance PO Box 1126 LANE COVE NSW 1595 Ph: 1300 537 098 E: enquiries@evocompliance.com

Ultra Tune Moorooka 119 Muriel Avenue MOOROOKA QLD 4105 Ph: 07 3892 1095 E: moorooka@ultratune.com.au

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

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

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

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

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

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

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

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

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

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

Mark Pedder Chairman

AAAA NEWS

BETTER DAYS AHEAD

As Australia starts to emerge from winter, we hope this signifies the beginning of brighter days for us all in relation to the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic and we all remain resilient to ensure we work towards the ongoing recovery across our industry and broader economy Difficult decisions We recently had to make the difficult decision to reschedule the 2021 Australian Automotive Aftermarket and Collision Repair Expo. The Expo, the largest aftermarket industry trade show of its kind in Australia, will now take place from the 7th to the 9th of April, 2022. With the continued uncertainty surrounding the pandemic and our commitment to ensuring the health and safety of everyone involved, the risks were simply too high for us to commit to the event in 2021. We know this decision is disappointing for so many in our industry and it leaves a large hole in the aftermarket event space next year. To fill the void and bring the industry together in 2021, we are already considering alternative activities for networking and learning opportunities to be held in the near future. We will also make good use of the longer than usual lead-up to the next Expo, to design and deliver a spectacular milestone event for the aftermarket industry in 2022. For more information on this announcement, please go to page 7.

Financial results coming soon We will shortly release our financial results for the 2019/20 year. Although COVID-19 has had an impact on some of our key performance indicators, member retention levels and revenue remained solid, and our member services and industry support capability is as strong as ever. The AAAA currently has 2500 member companies, an increase of seven percent from last year. Over the course of the year we saw a commitment from Government to a mandatory data sharing law, our Association rebrand, the

relocation of our national office, the launch of the Auto Innovation Centre, an expansion of our team, and much more.

Second Workshop Impact Survey To ensure we stay abreast of how our automotive service and repair sector is tracking during these challenging times, we recently commissioned our second Workshop Impact Survey with ACA Research, for the period May – July 2020. Just as the first Impact Survey yielded strong insights into the effects of the pandemic, we now have a clearer picture of how our industry is faring across the country a few months further into the year. Unsurprisingly, there is a significant variation in impact across Australia. In Melbourne and greater Victoria, automotive service and repair businesses have been severely impacted by ongoing COVID-19 restrictions. However, workshops across the rest of Australia have staged a strong recovery overall, and in some cases are back to and exceeding pre-pandemic levels. To read more about the survey findings, please go to page 12. We are encouraged with this strong rebound in markets once COVID restrictions are eased, and the result does provide some solace for those businesses in Victoria who are suffering at present. I also hope that the recently unveiled roadmap out of lockdown by the Victorian Government will see Melbourne and Victoria find some relief, so we can start the recovery process. The survey findings also enable the AAAA to accurately discuss the status of the industry, its pressure points and feedback, as part of our role representing the industry on the Victorian government advisory panel for COVID-19.

We are here to help With recovery and business growth top of mind, I encourage members to take advantage of the great member resources and services that can help direct and target your efforts to maximise your success. We have a great wealth of market research in our member’s area, from consumer insights, to manufacturing data, industry snapshots and a workshop benchmarking tool. We have also received great feedback on our updated Car Parc Data tool, so if you want to learn more about your local area car parc and demographic insights, or if you’re a manufacturer and distributor looking for a national view, this is a great tool to explore when preparing your plans for business growth. And finally, to ensure your well-laid plans don’t get sabotaged by sudden regulatory changes or proposed laws, remember that AAAA membership is like an insurance policy that ensures you can continue to conduct business in a fair and safe way. We are here to work with you and where required, represent and fight for your interests. Our advocacy work with Government is an everconstant part of our role and one we are very proud of. As always, we are here for you. Take care and stay safe.

MARK PEDDER Chairman

STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

NEWS

THE MELBOURNE METRO ROADMAP How it affects our industry The Victorian Government recently announced Melbourne’s restriction roadmap to a ‘COVID normal.’ This includes a guideline for business restrictions. Under the current guidance, automotive, machinery and equipment repair and maintenance are permitted to operate: a) where service providers are providing support to a permitted service or industry; or b) where required to maintain the health and safety of Victorians at home or at work (for example, vehicle repairs and critical maintenance including disinfection). This will not alter significantly in the initial rollback of restrictions, however as more industries are permitted to work under the easing of restrictions, more support will be required for the increase of vehicles on the road. Routine maintenance (such as logbook or scheduled maintenance) is not permitted as a standalone service just yet, but where urgent vehicle repairs are being undertaken, routine maintenance and servicing can also be completed at the same time to keep the vehicle roadworthy. Product recalls or repairs are permitted as this relates to ensuring safety. If you are more than five kilometres from a customer’s home, or if their vehicle requires specialist and/or brand-specific work that you offer to repair the vehicle, the customer may travel outside the five kilometre zone to access your services. As COVID-19 cases decrease and the advice from the Victorian Chief Health Officer is updated, the rollback dates and information on the level of restrictions our industry faces will change accordingly. The AAAA will continue its work in providing all members with up-to-date information on the requirements and re-opening of workplaces. The RoadMap out of restrictions is divided into four steps: • First Step – up to 28 September. • Second Step – After 28 September AND if an average daily case rate in metropolitan Melbourne of 30-50 cases over a 14-day period is reached. • Third Step – After 26 October AND daily average number of cases in the last 14 days is less than five (state-wide) AND less than five cases with an unknown source in the last 14 days (state-wide total). • Fourth Step – After 23 November AND no new cases for 14 days. There are four categories of restriction: 6

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

1. Closed 2. Heavily Restricted 3. Restricted 4. Open with a COVIDSafe Plan A summary of the requirements for each category is as follows. For the full requirements document, contact the AAAA.

Sector-By-Sector We are still seeking additional advice for some segments of our industry, but we do have the following information on our sub-sectors. In principle, no industry is worse off in the forthcoming steps – we are not going backwards. The RoadMap is a path out of the current business shutdown – it does not enforce any more closures than are currently in place. As we move forward, there will be some additional requirements to be incorporated in the COVIDSafe Plans and the AAAA expects to be able to provide more information on these requirements before Second Step begins on 28 September. 1. Auto Manufacturing: First Step: Status quo (Heavily Restricted. Closed unless permitted) until 28 September. Second Step: Restricted. Third and Last step – Open with a COVIDSafe Plan. 2. Wholesale Trade and Warehousing: First Step: Status quo (Heavily restricted. Closed unless permitted) until 28 September. Second Step: Restricted. 33 percent reduction still in place. Third and Last step – Open with a COVIDSafe Plan. The AAAA will be making additional representations on this restriction level as it does not see the 33 percent reduction as appropriate or sustainable and updates will be made available on www.aaaa.com.au when possible. 3. Motor Vehicle Parts Retail: Same rules apply for retail as is currently the case until 28 September. After 28 September open with a COVID Safe Plan for permitted industries including motor vehicle parts for emergency repairs only. 4. Automotive Service and Repair: Technically a ‘Restricted’ industry but essentially the current status quo. Under the current guidance, automotive, machinery and equipment repair and maintenance are permitted to operate: (a) where service providers are providing support to a permitted service or industry or (b) where required to maintain the health and safety of Victorians at home or at work (e.g. vehicle repairs and critical maintenance including disinfection). Routine maintenance (ie. logbook or scheduled

maintenance) is not permitted as a standalone service, but where urgent vehicle repairs are being undertaken, routine maintenance and servicing can also be completed at the same time to keep the vehicle roadworthy. Product recalls or repairs are permitted as this relates to ensuring safety. For customers: If the nearest mechanic is more than five kilometres from the customer’s home, or if their vehicle requires a specialist and/or brandspecific workplace in order to complete repairs, they may travel outside the five kilometre zone to access these services.

Heavily Restricted: • Ensure physical distancing: staff can only attend work if permitted. Staff in permitted work premises must work from home if they can, apply density quotient, reduce staff levels, limit number of patrons, no carpooling to work. • Wear a mask: ensure the proper use of masks in the workplace. For some sectors, additional PPE requirements. Ensure adequate PPE training and supply. • Practise good hygiene: auditing of cleaning schedules. • Note – New Requirement: Keep records and act quickly if staff become unwell: ask staff to declare in writing or electronically before each shift that they are free of symptoms, have not been in contact with a confirmed case and have not been directed to isolate. • Create workforce bubbles: ensure that staff members are not working across other work sites (exceptions apply).

Restricted • Ensure physical distancing: staff should work from home wherever possible, apply density quotient, some sectors allowed to lessen the reduction in staff levels, some sectors allowed to lessen the reduction in patrons, no carpooling to work. • Practise good hygiene: auditing of cleaning schedules. • Keep records and act quickly if staff become

NEWS

AAAEXPO RESCHEDULED The Australian Automotive Aftermarket and Collision Repair Expo has been rescheduled to 2022

unwell. Note – New Requirement: ask staff to declare verbally before each shift that they are free of symptoms. • Create workforce bubbles: limit number of staff members working across other work sites.

Open with a COVIDSafe Plan • Staff should work from home wherever possible (to be relaxed over time). • Apply density quotient for some settings (could be reduced over time). • Ensure staff follow current public health directions when carpooling. • Workplaces with less than five workers on site are not required to have a COVIDSafe Plan, however it is recommended that you complete it anyway or something similar. Other Important Issues 1. Commercial Leases: The Victorian Government will extend a ban on evictions and rental increases until the end of the year, increase assistance, and ensure tenant turnover is taken into account in rental negotiations. This means negotiations for rent relief between a commercial tenant and their landlord must consider this timeframe. Under the extension, evictions will continue to be banned for both residential and commercial tenancies until December 31, except in specific circumstances. Rental increases continue to be banned for the same period. 2. Business Support Grants: We are advised that more business assistance will be announced in the coming weeks. 3. Test Isolation Payment: Test isolation payment increased to $450. Victorians who get a coronavirus (COVID-19) test, self-isolate at home while waiting for their results. The Test Isolation Payment is also available for parents and guardians caring for someone 16 years old and under, who is self-isolating while waiting for their coronavirus (COVID19) test results. Anyone living in Victoria can receive this support, you do not need to be a citizen or a permanent resident to receive support.

For further assistance For AAAA members only do not forget you can login to the AAAA website at www.aaaa.com.au/member-login or contact advocacy@aaaa.com.au at any time with questions. In addition, the Employer Assist Hotline (1300 735 306) and Legal Hotline (1300 369 703) are also ready to assist answer your questions. The AAAA asks that you please contact the details above and advise if you feel that you are following the rules and others are not, if you hear of fines or you feel that you are being unfairly treated. Your feedback will assist the AAAA as it continues to liaise with the government about these restrictions. Current as at 11 September 2020

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has made the necessary decision to reschedule the Australian Automotive Aftermarket and Collision Repair Expo, which was to be held from the 29th of April to the 1st of May, 2021. The Expo, the largest aftermarket trade show of its kind in Australia, will now take place across the 7th to the 9th of April, 2022 at the Melbourne Convention and Exhibition Centre. The impact of COVID-19 and restrictions imposed across Australia, specifically in Victoria, has been significant. The ongoing future impact of the pandemic and in particular the opening of borders remains unclear. The Board unanimously agreed that rescheduling the Expo would be the most prudent and safest approach given the likelihood and severity of the risks that have emerged. “We are committed to protecting the safety and wellbeing of everyone involved with the Expo, our member businesses, event management teams, visitors and the broader industry,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said. “The unfortunate effects of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic have ultimately driven us to make this decision. “Our recent experience with the Metropolitan Melbourne Stage Four lockdown has reinforced that the future of this pandemic holds many unknowns. “Any further waves of infection in Victoria, or elsewhere in Australia, could result in government-imposed lockdowns that could pull the event from under our feet with little or no notice. “With an event of this scope and scale, the consequences of a forced cancellation produced an unacceptable level of risk to all our event stakeholders.” Alternative activities to bring the industry together safely for networking and learning opportunities during 2021 are currently being planned and further updates will be provided in due course. “The AAAA will make good use of the longer than usual lead-up to the 2022 Expo to design and deliver a spectacular milestone event for the aftermarket industry,” Stuart said. “We will be back bigger and better than ever and cannot wait for you to join us in person in 2022.” Further information about the 2022 Australian Auto Aftermarket and Collision Repair Expo will soon be available on www.autoaftermarketexpo.com.au and www.collisionrepair.com.au, and shared via the AAAA member eNewsletter, social media channels and a range of automotive trade publications in coming months. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

NEWS

NEW CAPHUB PLACES A BUSINESS MENTOR AT YOUR FINGERTIPS In this column, Capricorn Society’s Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, updates us on all things Capricorn Capricorn is pleased to introduce a new benefit to further assist the growth and development of our Members’ businesses. There is no doubt that given the challenges being faced across Australia and New Zealand due to the COVID-19 pandemic, business owners and their staff have a newfound appreciation for the speed of disruption and the direct impacts this may have on the stability and growth of their businesses. Capricorn is assisting our Members to navigate through this challenging period by launching an online resource that provides wide-ranging content applicable for all types of auto repair businesses. CapHub is a content portal providing easy access to expert business tips and advice, automotive workshop hacks and important industry data to help develop and improve our Members’ businesses. Featured content available now in CapHub includes the ‘Capricorn State of the Nation Report 2020,’ which is the culmination of Capricorn’s most substantial research project ever undertaken. The landmark report combines feedback from over 1,500 automotive workshop owners and operators located across Australia and New Zealand, to provide a range of insights on the industry, by the industry, for your workshop. This industry snapshot enables Capricorn Members to compare their business’ efficiencies and concerns with their colleagues through easy to understand analytical data. Over the course of 46 pages, the report provides valuable insights into hot topics such as industry challenges, what success looks like, generating efficiencies, customers, knowing your value, parts and pricing, technology, future trends, apprentices, staff rates, training and succession planning. But if there is one major factor that stands out from the findings of this report, it is the optimism of Capricorn Members for the future. This is a future that Capricorn will be directly alongside our Members for – because as the success of our cooperative has shown across nearly five decades, we are always stronger together. Capricorn Members and non-members are encouraged to access the new CapHub content portal and Capricorn State of the Nation Report from the Capricorn website at www.capricorn.coop/caphub Yours cooperatively, David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop 8

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

MENTAL HEALTH PILOT IN AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY Each year, 7,200 Australians are compensated for workrelated mental health conditions, equating to around six percent of workers’ compensation claims WorkSafe Victoria’s WorkWell Mental Health Improvement Fund has supported the peak body of women in trades, Tradeswomen Australia, to pilot a project that explores how increasing diversity within workplaces drives improvements in mental health, wellbeing and reduces mental injury. The Workplace Diversity Project is an industry-first program designed to improve the mental health and wellbeing of small and medium automotive businesses through diversity and inclusion. The project aims to create long term culture change by assessing the work-related factors that impact mental health. Each year, 7,200 Australians are compensated for work-related mental health conditions, equating to around six percent of workers’ compensation claims, and approximately $543 million is paid in workers’ compensation for work-related mental health conditions. During this period (2010-11 and 2014-15), one out of every 1,470 full-time employees claimed for a mental health condition every year, and: • 41 percent of claims were caused by harassment, bullying or exposure to violence; • 91 percent of claims were attributed to mental stress; and • 60 percent of claims were awarded to workers aged 40 and over. Managing Director of Tradeswomen Australia, Fiona McDonald, said work-related mental health conditions (also known as psychological injuries) have become a major concern in Australian workplaces due to the negative impact on individual employees, and the costs associated with the long periods away from work that are typical of these claims. “The Workplace Diversity Project aims to support businesses to create environments that embrace diversity and inclusion through their recruitment, employee support, and workplace practices,” Fiona said. Fiona said Tradeswomen Australia are working closely with key major industry bodies including the AMA Group, WPC Group, VACC, MEGT, G Force and the AAAA, and will be increasing engagement with small to large businesses during the project. October’s edition of AAA Magazine will include further information on this project and an interview with Fiona. In the meantime, automotive business can register to be part of the program by registering via https://tradeswomenaustralia.com.au/workplace-diversity-project/

NEWS

EVOLUTION OF THE NZ AUTO MARKET ACA Research, our partner in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard, says that while we spend a lot of our time focusing on Australia, the New Zealand passenger vehicle market has also evolved significantly over the past 10 years The NZ Transport Agency is very good at publishing registration and car parc data. We’ve taken a look at their 2009 and 2019 records, drawing out three key trends impacting the NZ market over this period. While we have kept our analysis at a fairly high level, this is an incredibly rich data source. It contains detailed vehicle information (including 11 digit VIN), as well as location and usage (private vs commercial) that will be relevant to manufacturers, wholesalers, retailers, or service providers.

The shift away from ‘Australian-made’ In line with many of the global automotive trends, NZ auto buyers in 2019 have different needs and wants to those of 2009, and these are clearly reflected in their choices. While some of these changes were driven by NZ consumers, some were also forced on them, such as the end of passenger vehicle manufacturing in Australia. In 2009, Australia was the third most common source of vehicles for NZ, so this absence left a large gap to be filled. Looking at where the replacements came from, we can see the impact of the increasing globalisation of automotive manufacturing. The three largest import regions (Japan, South Korea, and Germany) still account for twothirds of the market, but the biggest beneficiaries were the relatively smaller markets of Thailand (as well as other Southeast Asian countries such as Indonesia, Vietnam, and Malaysia), the UK and the US.

In fact, the only survivors from 2009 are two small cars, the Toyota Corolla (still the most popular car in NZ) and the Suzuki Swift. On the other side, sedans such as the Commodore, Falcon, and Mazda 6 have disappeared entirely from the top 10 (or even the market).

Moving away from ICE Finally, we can also see in the data that vehicles with alternative power trains (hybrid or pure electric) are making headway in NZ. There is still a long way to go before they begin truly challenging the dominance of petrol and diesel vehicles, but non-ICE vehicles made up almost one in ten new passenger vehicles in 2019. Coming from a starting point of being virtually non-existent in 2009, this trend can be expected to accelerate as more models become available, and prices fall more in line with their ICE counterparts.

The SUV migration The past ten years have also seen a large shift in the types of vehicle being bought. NZ is on board with the global trend to SUVs, at the expense of full-size sedans, and (to a lesser extent) hatchbacks. Station wagons/SUVs now make up almost two in three vehicles purchased, with most of the rest being small cars. As mentioned above, the NZ Transport Agency provides free access to monthly snapshots of vehicle registration data, as well as a range of other statistics that will be relevant to business involved in producing or delivering products or services in the NZ market. If you need help analysing or interpreting the data, remember too that AAAA members can get support in this area as part of the market intelligence service – contact advocacy@aaaa.com.au to find out more. This column was prepared for AAA Magazine by ACA Research, our partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to AAAA members each quarter. The most popular models reflect this change, with eight new entrants onto 2019’s top 10 vehicles list, all of which are SUVs.

For more information, visit www.acaresearch.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on bselwyn@acaresearch.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

NEWS

CENTURY YUASA APPOINTS NATIONAL SALES MANAGER Shaun O’Brien has been appointed to the role Leading battery manufacturer and supplier, Century Yuasa Batteries, has appointed Shaun O’Brien to the role of Automotive National Sales Manager for Australia.

A CHANGING AUSTRALIAN CAR PARC Research shows consumers in this country are purchasing very different vehicles to what they were 15 years ago Car parc data researched by AAAA partner ACA Research clearly shows that Australian consumers’ preferences have changed over the past decade and a half. It is clear that Ford and Holden six cylinders are no longer the mainstay of the Australian motoring industry. This is no great surprise considering that neither Ford nor Holden manufacture cars on our shores anymore, but the data clearly shows that this trend was well underway before the production lines stopped for the locally made Commodores and Falcons. In 2004, Ford was selling 94,225 units and Holden a massive 150,378 units. By 2019, Ford’s sales had dropped to 49,215 (which was bolstered by its range of small and mid-sized passenger vehicles and SUVs and utes), while Holden sold just 31,611 units. Perhaps even more alarming was Holden’s drop after leaving Australian manufacturing behind, as its 2017 sales were still relatively high at 81,740.

Driven by a passion for the battery industry, Shaun brings over 25 years of automotive experience to the position. For the past 12 years, Shaun has been the State Manager for Century Yuasa in New South Wales. He also manages the Auto Electrical Club (AEC), a Century initiative to bring the Auto Electrical industry together. Shaun started in the industry in general parts sales, progressing through Key Account Management and Sales Management roles with leading distributors, including in the specialist areas of Engine Management and Scan Tool diagnostics. Coupled with this strong sales background, Century Yuasa says Shaun has strong operational experience, having vast experience in branch management across various industries. Shaun’s appointment to the role comes as Century Yuasa Batteries announced an exciting multi-million dollar expansion to its Queensland based manufacturing facility that will see its production capacity increase by nearly 20 percent annually. Century Yuasa says the expansion will also ensure the company is well positioned to achieve a Century of Australian Battery Manufacturing. For more from Century Yuasa, visit www.cyb.com.au 10

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

Toyota has remained a constant front-runner in the Australian market. It was second only to Holden back in 2004 and took the lead in 2006, which it has not relinquished since.

While many of the other Japanese brands and the European marques have remained steady, the big movers have been the Korean brands. Hyundai sold 18,502 units in 2004 and after a peak of 107,337 in 2017, it still had strong sales of 72,611 last year. This drop from 2017 to last year is reflected across most marques. Kia has moved from just 6,070 units in 2004 to 58,101 last year. Other interesting positive movers since 2004 have been Jeep and Isuzu, though Jeep’s significant drop off since 2017 would be a major concern for the company. AAAM will delve deeper into this data in its October issue, including an analysis on what this all means for the aftermarket parts and accessories segment and the service and repair sector.

HOLDEN LAUNCHES GM TRADE PARTS An automotive trade-only program Holden has announced the launch of GM Trade Parts – an automotive trade-only program that brings competitively priced Holden Genuine Parts, ACDelco and recent Chevrolet Genuine Service Parts to the trade through its Holden Dealer Network across Australia and New Zealand. GM Trade Parts takes the reigns from the long-running Holden Trade Club program, the rebranding bringing with it a suite of new products and benefits for its existing 28,000 members. “With over 1.6 million Holdens still on the road, there’s huge demand for Holden Genuine Parts in automotive workshops today,” Holden Director Aftersales, Paul Rietveld, said. “Holden has made a commitment to its customers to continue supplying Holden parts for at least the next decade, and the launch of GM Trade Parts reinforces this assurance to the automotive repair trade in both Australia and New Zealand.”

ACDelco also continues to expand its most makes and models product range – from the oil in the engine to the globes in the tail lights, the ACDelco product range is diverse and evergrowing. If you’re in the Automotive Trade and not an existing member, it’s free to join. To learn more about the program, visit www.gmtradeparts.com.au or speak with your local Holden Parts Department.

NEWS

NEW CAPRICORN LOYALTY PROGRAM RELEASED All new Capricorn rewards website and product range unveiled Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative says it has introduced yet another new way to benefit from Capricorn membership. Driven by feedback from its Members, Capricorn says it has joined forces with leading rewards and incentives business innovators, 212F, to create a world-class loyalty program that gives all Capricorn Members a memorable and exciting experience when redeeming their hard earned rewards points. Recognising how busy Capricorn’s 20,000-plus Members across Australia and New Zealand are – many of whom lack the time to leave their workshops to purchase items for themselves, their family or their staff – Capricorn has introduced a brand new Capricorn Rewards website located at www.capricorn.coop/rewardprogram Ensuring that Capricorn Members make the most of the rewards points they earn on parts, equipment and business essential products purchased from Capricorn Preferred Suppliers, the new Capricorn Rewards website reportedly offers Members a huge selection of quality merchandise across a range of product categories. “Our new Capricorn Rewards website is yet another way for our Members to make the most from being a part of Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative and be rewarded for their hard work,” Capricorn Automotive Chief Executive Officer, Bradley Gannon, said.

“It also enables Members to be rewarded with quick and easy access to gifts or personal items from a vast, high quality, online selection, which is particularly important during the current challenging business climate in some parts of Australia. “I am sure that all Capricorn Members will be pleasantly surprised at the vast range of over a thousand different products available. This selection will continue to evolve with our Members’ wants and needs into the future.” The first 1,000 Members to use the new Capricorn Rewards website to purchase products or services using points from August 13, 2020 to October 30, 2020 will also receive 1,000 bonus Capricorn Rewards points as an exciting introductory incentive. Visit www.capricorn.coop/tc for full offer details. Capricorn Rewards shop categories include products for the home, workshop, sport and fitness, technology and electronics, travel, cosmetics, jewellery, sunglasses, watches, toys, movies, books, magazines, outdoor living products and other gift ideas. Members can also reward their staff with gift vouchers, food and beverage products, hampers and workshop products. Of course, Members can still use their points to pay their Capricorn Trade Accounts too.

Capricorn says the new and improved program is made even more tempting with 90 percent of merchandise priced lower than recommended retail and with delivery costs also included. Capricorn says the new Capricorn Rewards program clearly outlines the power of participation in this almost five-decade strong automotive cooperative and states that Capricorn Rewards is already one of Australasia’s most generous with Members earning 1.5 points on almost every dollar spent for doing no more than normally running your business. Capricorn Members are encouraged to make more of their everyday purchases using their Capricorn Trade Account to watch their points balances soar. For more information contact your local Capricorn Area Manager or login now to www.capricorn.coop/rewardprogram

NAPA AUTO PARTS OPENS 20TH STORE The new NAPA store is the largest in the southern hemisphere In August NAPA Auto Parts opened its 20th store, with NAPA Coopers Plains in Queensland the latest branch to join the NAPA Auto Parts family as its growth across the country continues. Servicing local trade and automotive specialists in South East Queensland, NAPA Coopers Plains is reportedly now the largest NAPA-branded home of specialist parts in the Southern hemisphere.

automotive electrical, thermal and mechanical, NAPA says its Coopers Plains store represents the amalgamation of reputable businesses in the community, including Ashdown-Ingram (AI) Archerfield, AI Ipswich, and K&M Automotive Services.

The local team is said to be very experienced and armed with diverse knowledge in all areas of the automotive aftermarket, including industrial.

“Merging the strong teams from Ashdown Ingram Archerfield and Ipswich, along with the K&M Automotive group, creates a very established and experienced team who are able to continue to provide exceptional service to our customers and build on new opportunities,” Scott said.

The new location will enable them to house the extensive range and provisions for expansion, with new brands and products from world-renowned suppliers becoming available.

The NAPA Auto Parts brand launched in Australia in April 2019. While the name may still be new, the expertise and knowledge of the team stems from a rich 90-year history in the industry.

in Queensland, with a number of additional stores being rolled out across the country. NAPA says this represents the business’ strategic plan to build on its existing capabilities to ensure it is able to service customers with the right part at the right time. NAPA Coopers Plains now joins Emerald, Mackay, Rockhampton, Slacks Creek, Townsville and Toowoomba as Queensland stores. The brand also has locations in WA, VIC, ACT and NSW, with more branches opening this year. NAPA is expecting to grow to over 125 locations across Australia and New Zealand as part of a rigorous roll out.

With exceptional knowledge and experience in

NAPA Coopers Plains is the seventh store to open

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

NAPA explains that the Coopers Plains branch is a 2,600sqm store located in the industrial hub of Southeast Queensland and will house one of the country’s widest range of specialist products.

NAPA General Manager, Scott MacDonald, is excited about the expansion and its potential in Australia.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

NEWS

STRONG RECOVERIES AND HARD HITS The two step auto workshop economy While Melbourne and Victorian automotive service and repair businesses have been severely impacted by ongoing COVID-19 restrictions, workshops in the rest of Australia have staged a strong recovery, in some cases back to and exceeding pre-pandemic levels.

Although the recovery is still occurring in Queensland and in New South Wales/the Australian Capital Territory, 30 percent of Queensland businesses and 21 percent of NSW/ ACT businesses have reportedly rebounded with higher levels of business than pre COVID-19.

The Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) recently commissioned ACA Research to undertake a survey of more than 200 auto service and repair workshops on the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic from May through to July.

At the start of May, New South Wales and Queensland workshops saw a reduction of operating hours but encouragingly in July, New South Wales workshops were all back at operating normal hours, with only seven percent in Queensland still operating at reduced hours.

This is the second COVID-19 Impact Survey conducted by the AAAA, as part of its responsibility as the peak aftermarket industry body to monitor and support the health of the Australian service and repair sector.

“Most states and territories are seeing a return of close to, or even stronger than pre pandemic levels,” Stuart said.

“This latest survey provides the most up to date understanding of how workshops have been fairing and there is unsurprisingly a significant variation of impact across Australia,” AAAA Chief Executive Officer, Stuart Charity, said. “We have also seen changes in work practices as workplaces adapt to ‘our new normal.’ “These new findings help support the industry, and form part of our ongoing dialogue with Governments about how the sector is fairing and the support the industry requires. “We need to ensure our industry is represented for the large contribution it makes to the economy; the service and repair sector employs more than 150,000 people in over 23,000 businesses across the country.”

“This rubber band effect we are seeing is a result of customers returning after holding off on service and repair through restriction periods. “It is worth noting that across the board the recovery process is occurring with a very cautious approach. “The data shows that 25 percent of workshops have less staff than before the first wave of COVID-19. “This is likely because of the continued uncertainty across Australia of how the pandemic will play out over the coming months and into 2021. “Victoria has been severely impacted by the restrictions imposed over the last few months. Melbourne metropolitan businesses in particular are going to need significant support to rebuild.

For Western Australia, South Australia and Northern Territory, with little COVID-19 impact during May through July, business has returned to parity with pre-pandemic levels.

“I am confident that pending restrictions easing over the coming months, that we will see a less immediate but still noticeable swing in customer confidence as we have seen elsewhere across the country.

In fact, 27 percent of responders said they were busier than they were prior to COVID-19.

“Due to the hit however, recovery is likely to take longer in Victoria.”

To help mitigate the impacts of the pandemic, there have been key philosophy changes across the country for workshops. Ninety three percent of workshops are now sanitising vehicles as standard practice and 80 percent of workshops offer contactless pick up and drop off services. Marketing levels have also increased, with businesses actively promoting their services to customers. For example, SMS messaging to customers saw an increase from 58 percent in May to 77 percent in July. Data on the government support and satisfaction with the government response to the pandemic was also collected in the survey. “There is a total of 58 percent of workshops who are accessing JobKeeper. Encouragingly, 65 percent of workshops are also accessing Government Investment Incentives including instant asset write off, and accelerated depreciation deductions,” AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, said. “Unsurprisingly, when asked about the satisfaction of Government response to the crisis, the survey showed a wide variety of satisfaction. “Australia wide, 80 percent of workshops have been satisfied with the Federal Government response. “Victorians were the least satisfied with the level of response, but many are still largely positive about how the crisis has been managed.” “The AAAA will continue to monitor the health of the service and repair workshop sector and ensure our advocacy efforts and services best support our members and the broader industry through these challenging times.” A third Australia wide COVID-19 Impact Survey will be commissioned by the AAAA in October to gather another important snapshot of the sector, hopefully with further positive news. To view the COVID-19 Workshop Impact Research findings for May through July, please visit www.aaaa.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

NEWS

500+ YEARS OF HERITAGE UNDER ONE ROOF Filpro Automotive makes the move to its own warehouse, creating more flexibility Following a long standing, established business in New Zealand, Filpro Automotive says it has been gaining traction here in Australia within the aftermarket scene, offering compelling value to customers with its range of market leading brands stemming from partnerships with world class manufacturers. To add to its already wide selection of products under the Filpro Automotive banner, the acquisition of Powerdown Australia was finalised earlier this year; adding the Australian designed and developed suspension products and ride control components for heavy commercial vehicles, and including the RAW 4x4 suspension products, to the group. After Filpro’s acquisition of Powerdown in February, Filpro says the next logical step for the business was to consolidate all of its brands under the one roof, literally.

The warehouse expansion project began in May with all stock being transferred to the Beresfield warehouse in July, that had been prepared with extra racking and new equipment and planned with a new layout to accommodate the additional range of products. Filpro Automotive explains that making the move from a 3PL warehouse to its own facility will provide a more flexible option into the future for Filpro and its customers; creating and fasttracking opportunities to grow partnerships with its distributors across Australia.

its brands and the history behind them, totaling over 500 years.

With greater flexibility, the Filpro group plans to expand its footprint, with a service model to open its range to re-sellers to aid in greater availability to workshops and trade customers.

Product catalogues, information and websites are linked for all brands, including FRAM Filters, Powerdown, RAW 4x4, Holts, Prestone, Redex and Simoniz.

Whilst product was being moved across the East Coast to its new home in Beresfield, the Filpro team launched its new website, covering each of

For further information on any of the Filpro Automotive brands, visit www.flipro.com.au or contact Filpro on 0400 878 837 or arossiter@filpro.com.au

AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI 2020 REVEALS ONLINE TOOLS The new tools are designed to help navigate current trends and post-pandemic opportunities With many Asian countries and regions showing strong signs of early market recovery from COVID19, Automechanika Shanghai says it is stepping up its online resources to reconnect players in the automotive ecosystem. These channels will facilitate communication between exhibitors and visitors prior to the 16th edition of the show, as well as allow players to capture the latest global industry developments in response to a rapidly evolving business environment. “As the industry starts to spring back from the effects of COVID-19, we believe that highly influential platforms like Automechanika Shanghai play a crucial role rejuvenating the market,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said. “It is our mission to help players unlock their potential. Therefore, we are continuing to realign our resources by utilising new digital tools, spurred on from the pandemic, to support global automotive industry recovery before, during, and after the show.” To begin with, the show recently launched a webinar series to offer guidance on trends and post-pandemic industry recovery. In extra efforts to re-establish networks across the market, Automechanika Shanghai says it is also pioneering other digital tools to encourage information exchange, marketing, trade and

education. These resources focus on supporting players to overcome some of the challenges arising from the pandemic. To illustrate, a number of online matchmaking events will take place in the months leading up to the show’s opening. Highlighting its global influence, the first session, held on 28 August 2020, united a collection of South American buyers looking to engage with Chinese and international companies registered as exhibitors. This will be followed with another event on 20 October 2020 for buyers from Asian and European countries and regions. The online platforms aim to create a pathway for matched pairs to understand more about potential suppliers ahead of the fair, along with more matchmaking and digital hybrid events to provide exclusive sourcing opportunities at the show itself. At the same time, Automechanika Shanghai will continue to convene key market leaders, specialists and consultancies in its webinar series discussing future prospects in the auto industry. To find out more, please visit www.automechanika-shanghai.com/events Automechanika Shanghai will take place from 2 to 5 December 2020 at the National Exhibition and Convention Center in China. During the four-day exhibition, over 50 fringe events will

target current and future trends, and thematic showcases will amplify emerging business opportunities across the entire supply chain. Around 5,300 exhibitors are expected to join the fair across the Parts & Components, Electronics & Connectivity, Diagnostics & Repair, Body & Paint, Accessories, Customising, Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility and REIFEN (Tyres & Wheels) sectors in the 300,000 sqm exhibition space. The fair is organised by Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd and the China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd (Sinomachint). In light of the COVID-19 outbreak, organisers are working with local authorities to ensure appropriate safety parameters are upheld. These measures are to safeguard the health and safety of all stakeholders so that the show remains a secure platform for business. To find out more, visit www.automechanika-shanghai.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

NEWS

NEW ARRIVALS TO TYREPLUS Three new members have joined the network The Tyreplus Support Team says it is proud to announce the arrival of three new members to the Tyreplus network in 2020. Tyreplus is a national network of 48 independent tyre and mechanical dealerships licensed to operate under the Tyreplus brand, the home of Michelin and BF Goodrich tyres. Licensed dealers share the benefits of a national brand and network, online and web-based marketing and “selling the best quality tyres available.” The three new members are:

Tyreplus Caulfield opened in metropolitan Melbourne in February and is owned and operated by Gordon Pereira. “I love selling Michelin and BF Goodrich Tyres to my customers,” Gordon said. “The peace of mind that comes with providing quality products makes me proud to be a part of the Tyreplus family. Part of the deal is my own website which really drives customers to my store”. Tyreplus Wetherill Park in suburban Sydney joined the family in May 2020. Having recently joined

from another tyre network, the store is owned and operated by Frank Lipari who has been in the business for over ten years. “The team at Tyreplus have been very supportive, as have the rest of the network, making the transition to the Tyreplus family a very smooth one,” Frank said. Tyreplus Airlie Beach in northern Queensland joined the Tyreplus national network in June 2020. Simon Price had owned and operated his business for many years prior to joining the Tyreplus family. “I’m excited to be a part of a growing network within the tyre industry and customers are already flowing into the business providing terrific value from the Tyreplus program,” Simon said. To find out more about the benefits of joining the Tyreplus network, visit www.tyreplus.com.au/join-the-family or email jointhefamily@tyreplus.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

NEWS

HSY COMMITS LONG TERM TO LIQUI MOLY hsy assures its Liqui Moly customers there will be no product shortages Following changes to the local distribution of Germany’s number one oil brand, Liqui Moly, seeing the establishment of a company-owned affiliate in Australia, leading European parts supplier hsy Auto Parts has announced its ongoing commitment to the supply of the Liqui Moly range nationally. hsy, which has been supplying European specialist workshops with Liqui Moly oil and lubricants for the past four years, says it has been integral to the success of the brand in Australia. “Over the past four years we have built a solid and reliable distribution infrastructure for Liqui Moly and we are excited about our future with the new Liqui Moly Australia arrangement,” hsy National Sales and Marketing Manager, Nick Redmond, said. “Our customers represent the very best workshops in Australia who only service premium vehicle brands, so having the right oil partner is absolutely vital to our overall offer. “Liqui Moly’s quality and well-known suitability to European vehicles, combined with hsy’s

dedication to industry-leading customer service, has ensured consistent year on year growth and substantial customer satisfaction levels. “Knowing that both hsy and Liqui Moly Australia have agreed to partner for the long-term success of the brand in Australia is exciting for us.” A central part of the renewed commitment between the two companies has been negotiations around maintaining product stock levels within the current transition period. “hsy can confidently assure all of our Liqui Moly customers that there will be no product shortages. We have substantially increased our stock holding to cater for the transition between the existing national Distributor and Liqui Moly Australia,” Nick said. “I’m delighted to confirm the ongoing commercial partnership between Liqui-Moly and hsy,” Liqui Moly Australia’s newly appointed Managing Director, Mark Johnson, said. “Liqui-Moly is a business that partners long-term with resellers who can uphold the same values of quality and service that we do.

“Australia for us is still a largely untapped market, we have many new products to introduce and look forward to further supporting our independent workshop client base.” For over 55 years, hsy Auto Parts has been servicing specialist European workshops, starting from humble beginnings in Melbourne’s South Yarra. Today, hsy is 12 branches strong with distribution in every State but still remains a family owned business. For more information, visit www.hsy.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

COVER STORY

COOLDRIVE AUTO PARTS’ BRAKE PROGRAM HAS YOU COVERED

CoolDrive Auto Parts says it is fast growing a reputation as a market leader in brakes, with a wide selection of product lines now offered Currently available from CoolDrive is the company’s latest Brakes Program Guide: a 20page brochure outlining product highlights from renowned aftermarket suppliers such as Brembo, Bosch, Fremax, Bremtec, Akebono, HULK 4x4, Stolz and more. Featuring the latest developments and news, the guide also contains special offers exclusive to CoolDrive customers. “Although we have only been in the brake business for 18 months, we are proud to showcase what has quickly grown to become a solid range of products available now from CoolDrive,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Chief Executive Officer, John Blanchard, said. “Our aim is to build a market leading brake program, using global brands covering the full range of street, performance and track products, all under the one roof.

Brembo New to the line-up of braking products is the Brembo brand, which CoolDrive says covers an impressive 96 percent of the Australian car parc. Brembo’s reputation is said to be founded on unique working relationships developed with more than 30 global automotive manufacturers, including Aston Martin, Audi, BMW, Cadillac, Chrysler, Dodge, Ferrari, Ford, General Motors (GM), Honda, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep, Lamborghini, Land Rover, Lexus, Maserati, Mercedes-Benz, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Porsche and Subaru. With parts made available to the aftermarket produced in the same plants as the OE components, the brand carries significant currency within the workshop community.

“We have many exciting new additions coming as well, to cover all aspects of your braking product requirements.

Further adding to this reputation is motorsport success at the highest levels of Formula 1, the World Rally Championship, MotoGP, NASCAR and sports car racing, all of which continues to improve the breed of road vehicle products.

“We continue to recruit and grow our team of brake specialists to provide expert advice and technical support, including industry leading training and accreditation.”

At the top of the Brembo range are High Performance Kits specifically developed for track day enthusiasts, with premium quality systems for cars such as the Ford Mustang GT, Porsche

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

991 GT3/GT3RS and Subaru Impreza WRX, to name a few. Covering the wider road car range, CoolDrive explains that Brembo disc brakes are the result of years of research and development, laboratory and road testing; with a rotor range that provides excellent performance, reliability, durability and comfort in all conditions. The OE quality parts feature a special UV coating which CoolDrive says guarantees superior corrosion resistance, while a patented venting system design improves resistance to thermal cracks of the disc by over 40 percent and a high carbon content in the cast iron minimises vibrations and noise, while maximising performance and driving comfort. The perfect match to the disc brake range are Brembo brake pads, with the company once again controlling all levels of production, ensuring the highest quality parts for the consumer. Available in Low-Metallic, NAO and Xtra ranges, Brembo matches the ideal friction material to each application, all while offering high performance and minimal noise, with a wide range of accessories and fitting kits making for hassle-free installation.

COVER STORY

Bosch

Bremtec

Also offered through CoolDrive Auto Parts is the latest offering from Bosch, headlined by the Blue Line range of brake pads, perfect for Australian, Asian and European vehicles, with OE quality parts available in an assortment of friction materials, including ceramic, copper-free ceramic and low metallic.

Another highlight of the CoolDrive Brakes Guide is the extensive Bremtec Brakes range, which totals 3,400 part numbers covering 21.5 million cars, from all corners of the motoring spectrum.

CoolDrive says the product line delivers benefits such as smooth, quiet stopping power, all while lowering rotor wear. Bosch brake discs meanwhile display a high level of thermal conductivity, accuracy of fit, as well as mechanical and thermal stability. Constructed to tight tolerances, Bosch discs offer low run out, which in turn diminishes the effects of disc thickness variation that ultimately can lead to pedal vibrations, pulsation and noise.

Fremax A recent addition to the CoolDrive brake catalogue is the Fremax range of brake discs and drums, which have earned a solid reputation over the past 30 years of production, with the company manufacturing more than 5,000,000 pieces annually for over 1,800 applications. An OE supplier to marques such as Mitsubishi and Renault, CoolDrive says Fremax components offer an ideal combination of quality, innovation and safety, with key features being that all Fremax brake disc rotors are High-Carbon as standard, have a patented groove on the surface face of the rotor for faster bedding in and offer a special protective oil that does not contaminate brake pads and eliminates wash off before assembly; making them easier, faster and safer to install.

Offering cleaner, quieter and safer braking, Bremtec’s TRADE-LINE brake pads all now feature an advanced ceramic formulation for a wide range of everyday passenger cars from around the world, complemented by accompanying rotors. The Bremtec EURO-LINE Ceramic+ brake pads, and Geozinc rotors are constructed with the highest quality materials, especially for European sourced cars such as BMWs, Mercedes-Benz and Audis. Meanwhile, the Bremtec PRO-LINE heavy duty brake pads offer a premium upgrade for heavy duty applications, with a range covering popular fourwheel drives, SUVs and light commercial vehicles. Along similar lines, the ENDURE-LINE 4WD+ brake pads are engineered for consistent brake pedal feel, even with heavy loads and for extreme driving off-road conditions. Rounding out the Bremtec range is the PERFORMANCE+ range of pads, offering outstanding continued performance in sustained use, with a special focus being prestige European high-performance models and other locally produced performance cars.

Akebono Akebono - reportedly the number one choice for OEMs in Japan and North America - features prominently in the CoolDrive brake offering, with a range that has been developed from 85 years of industry experience.

Providing up to 50 percent longer lasting wear, Akebono pads virtually eliminate all dust, all while providing a smooth and quiet ride.

HULK 4X4 The four-wheel drive market is catered for with CoolDrive’s own HULK 4X4 range, which offers a big performance boost through forged six piston callipers, as well as 356mm slotted and dimpled rotors. One popular line is HULK 4X4’s rear drum brake to disc conversions, with stopping distances reportedly improved by up to 34 percent, all from a fully ADR approved kit. The HULK 4X4 line-up is complete with upgrades for all popular models, including the Toyota LandCruiser and Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mazda BT50, and Mitsubishi Triton, amongst others.

Stolz Wrapping up the main product lines is the Stolz SFZ Series premium performance braking system upgrades, with four or six piston calliper configurations, with a direct bolt-on solution featuring aluminium light weight callipers, two pcs floating disc rotors, bracket and ceramic performance brake pads, for a host of applications. Completing the offering for workshops is an extensive range of quality consumables that get the job done right, including brake fluids, cleaners, greases and lubes. For the full listing of all available brake parts, accessories and consumables, visit www.cooldrive.com.au or contact your local CoolDrive Auto Parts branch. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

TECHNOFILE

COMMON STEERING ANGLE SENSOR FAULTS Opus IVS VAG Master Technicians discuss the common ‘778 steering angle sensor’ fault Opus IVS says its OEM Brand-Specific Master Technicians support customers globally in the automotive aftermarket via its IVS 360 diagnostic support service, designed uniquely to assist workshops and technicians in the repair of complex vehicle technology. It says that by using the DrivePro’s market leading diagnostic software and IVS 360 extensive product knowledge, workshops are provided with the confidence to repair the most complex vehicles with speed and efficiency. The IVS 360 VAG OEM Trained Master Technicians reportedly receive numerous requests for support from customers who have an ABS or traction control warning on the instrument cluster and a fault stored in the ABS control module of “778 steering angle sensor.” It explains that this fault – which its team reports is a common fault they see regularly – may have appeared after something as simple as a flat battery or after a component replacement.

778 STEERING ANGLE SENSOR FAULT Brand: VAG Issue: ABS or traction control warning on the instrument cluster Fault codes presented: 778 steering angle sensor

The fix: Sometimes a simple short drive whilst turning the steering wheel right and left will suffice, however, when this is not the case, then a basic setting function will have to be used.

Cause:

To start the basic settings procedure, the ABS control module requires an initialisation drive so the ABS control module can see the live data on all four wheel speeds is reading correctly.

Opus IVS reports it has been identified that the fault first became apparent when the Volkswagen group started to use the Teaves MK60 ABS system in their cars from around 2004 onwards. This system requires the basic setting to be completed on the steering angle sensor after a flat battery or if the battery is disconnected, or a steering rack or angle sensor replacement.

So when there may be no fault codes regarding a wheel speed issue, the wheel speed plausibility live data must be checked, as even the smallest discrepancy in wheel speed would mean the ABS control module would not carry out the steering angle sensor basic setting procedure. Common causes include wheel bearings, speed sensors and wiring.

Once a discrepancy has been confirmed and then diagnosed and repaired, the Steering Angle Sensor basic setting function should be completed and the code should clear. On vehicles with an electro mechanical steering rack, there will also be a steering warning light in the instrument cluster and the steering will be heavy. Opus IVS says this would then require the steering to be held on full left-hand lock and then full right-hand lock then back to the straight-ahead position to complete. The team advise you should be aware that a simple battery replacement may lead to this issue and so it is recommended that this is explained to the customer to avoid any issues.

Opus IVS Opus IVS says that all of its IVS 360 team of OEM-Trained Master Technicians have extensive main dealership workshop experience, which Opus IVS keeps up to date through ongoing VM and OEM training. It states this allows the IVS 360 team to have knowledge of the latest models and systems, enabling them to support customers effectively from initial diagnosis through to final repair. All Opus IVS mechanical repair solutions (DrivePro and DrivePro Elite Diagnostic Kit) come complete with live repair guidance from IVS 360 OE brand-specific master technicians. For more information on IVS 360 support, visit www.opusivs.com or contact sales-au@opusivs.com or 03 8561 7600.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCT R&D

NEW JB WELD PRODUCTS For the automotive trade HPP Lunds, the Australian supplier for JB Weld products, has added eight new products to its extensive line-up of high-quality repair materials. JB Weld says the new products are proving useful for both the tradesperson and the home handyman; and like all of its products, make repairs easy, quick and reliable. Of the eight new products, seven are skewed towards automotive repairs while the eighth, SuperWeld Super Glue, has a multitude of uses. Of the seven new products which have been added to JB Weld range for the automotive sector, six are for exhaust repairs with the remaining product, JB Weld ExtremeHeat, able to be used in exhaust systems as well as on other repairs.

JB Weld ExtremeHeat JB Weld ExtremeHeat is a temperature resistant metallic paste which sets in one hour and is fully cured in 24 hours. It dries machine grey and withstands continuous heat of up to 1300 degrees Celsius. JB Weld says it is ideal for filling holes and cracks in metal surfaces and can be used on exhaust manifolds, heat exchangers, mufflers and engine blocks as well as on household items such as outdoor BBQs and fireplaces. Over the past few years, JB Weld says it has been concentrating on developing a total muffler repair package with pastes and repair wraps that are long lasting and easy to use for both the home handyman and the automotive repair shop. The pastes feature high temperature ratings, high torque loads and can seal as well as fill. The wraps feature fibreglass technology and they seal, insulate and structurally repair the system. No mixing is required with the wraps.

Six new JB Weld exhaust products: The new JB Weld exhaust products added to the range include sealants, patches, wraps and repair kits as follows. With this range, JB Weld says you can fix an entire exhaust from the manifold through the catalytic converter, down to the exhaust pipe and even the muffler itself. • JB Weld Exhaust System Sealant: is a temperature resistant sealant for cracks, joints and seams; suitable for use on exhaust pipe connections, catalytic converters, mufflers and tailpipes. Drying time is 30 minutes and the product cures within 10 minutes after drying with the engine running. 22

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

• JB Weld MufflerWeld: seals mufflers, pipe joins and fixes gaps and cracks, withstanding temperatures of up to 370 degrees Celsius. This muffler cement is iron reinforced and used by OEMs. It has a drying time of around two to four hours. • JB Weld Muffler Patch: a fibreglass wrap coated in epoxy which can withstand temperatures of up to 315 degrees Celsius. The pack has a 36-inch long wrap and a 24inch long aluminium tape. It cures in 20 minutes when exposed to heat. • JB Weld Tailpipe and Pipe Repair Wrap: a fibreglass wrap impregnated with polyurethane resin and silicone rubber which can withstand up to 420 degrees Celsius. JB Weld says this product is also ideal for repairs to hot water pipes. It cures within one hour when exposed to heat. The pack includes a 70-inch wrap, gloves, sandpaper and metallic securing tape. • JB Weld Ultra Heat Wrap Ceramic Exhaust System Repair Kit: a ceramic and fibre wrap that withstands temperatures of up to 1000 degrees Celsius. It cures within 30 minutes when exposed to heat and is ideal for tailpipes, exhaust manifolds and catalytic converter repairs. The pack has a 35-inch long wrap, gloves, sandpaper, metallic securing tape and an additional clay sealer.

• JB Weld Strapping Kit: consists of a five-foot long galvanised metal strip and two 1/4-inch nuts and bolts. This product can be used on car exhaust systems as well as on gutter and downspout repairs around the home.

PRODUCT R&D

SuperWeld Super Glue This glue is a quick setting adhesive based on cyanoacrylates, which is an acrylic resin that rapidly polymerises in the presence of water/ moisture and so forms long, strong chains joining the bonded surfaces.

JB Weld SuperWeld Super Glue is not to be used as a gap filler. If this is needed, JB Weld says you should refer to its other products that are designed for this use, such as JB Weld Plastic Bonder.

It typically sets in less than a minute and is fully cured within 24 hours. It is to be used sparingly as a thin layer bonds more effectively than a thick layer.

JB Weld says its SuperWeld product boasts a higher strength formula than most other super glues on the market and is ideal for many workshop and home repairs, however, it states with this in mind it is also wise to ensure it is kept away from children.

While the shelf life of the product if kept at room temperature is around 12 months, once opened the glue must be used within a month.

The SuperWeld packaging covers many possible applications for auto, home and craft projects and JB Weld says the instructions are easy for

customers to understand and follow. The product is available in five different SKUs. To provide for a variety of uses, JB Weld SuperWeld comes in a two-pack version with small 2g tubes for single use with a shear strength of 3100PSI. It is also available in a brush cap 6g bottle for brush-on applications, with a shear strength of 3000 PSI. And finally, it is also available in a larger 20g bottle with a precision application tip â&#x20AC;&#x201C; this is the highest strength formula and has a shear strength of 3500 PSI. For more information, visit www.hpplunds.com.au or call Ben Leonard on 07 3722 1111.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine Publisher, Cameron McLachlan, takes a look at the products driving the automotive aftermarket. cameron@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

DELIVERING INNOVATION Milwaukee Tool talks rachets and sockets Milwaukee Tool says it has once again delivered innovation to a core category of tools aimed at the professional trades with its Ratchets and Sockets. Milwaukee Tool says its 90 tooth ratchet tool offers four degrees of arc swing and a slim profile design, allowing you to work in tighter and more confined spaces, be it under the hood of a car or in the middle of a remodel. At the same time, Milwaukee Tools states that its Six-Point Socket with Four Flat Sides was designed from the ground up to be part of the most versatile socket family.

Milwaukee explains its sockets feature an innovative design with four parallel flat sides, which deter rolling and are wrench compatible. It says the Metric and SAE socket sizes are stamped into the flats, providing you with improved, easy-to-read visibility. Further, these deep and standard socket sizes have optimised geometry to reduce bolt rounding and stripping, says Milwaukee Tool. Milwaukee’s 1/4-inch drive metric sockets range from 5mm to 15mm in standard and deep well; its 1/4-inch drive SAE sockets range from 5/32inch to 9/16-inch in standard and deep well; the 3/8-inch Drive Metric Socket sizes range from 6mm to 19mm in standard and deep well; and the 3/8-inch Drive SAE Socket sizes range from 1/4-inch to one-inch in standard and deep well. All Milwaukee Tool ratchet and socket sets come with a removable inner tray which Milwaukee Tool says is perfectly designed to be stored longterm in a steel storage chest. Also supplied is a durable carrying case for ultimate portability and the sets come with accessories such as three-inch and six-inch extensions so users can get every job done. Milwaukee Tool says it backs all of its sockets and ratchets with a lifetime guarantee. For more information, visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au 24

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

MAKING YOUR WORKSHOP MORE EFFICIENT Introducing Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 Engine Oil The Valvoline team says it has been hard at work to combat the burden of workshops requiring so many different engine oils. Valvoline has now introduced the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil exclusive to workshops. The new engine oil is intended to rationalise workshop engine oil requirements, designed to service the fastest growing segment in the Australian automotive marketplace.

Catering to over 45 percent of Australian vehicles sold since 2009 Many cars on the Australian car park are late model Japanese and Korean cars. Today these brands account for more than 45 percent of all new car sales in Australia – that is over four million petrol and diesel vehicles sold over the past 10 plus years. Valvoline says many of these vehicles can now be serviced with the Valvoline Professional MultiVehicle 5W-30 engine oil where the vehicle specifies: • Petrol vehicles that specify SAE 5W-30 requiring API SN PLUS, SN, SM or earlier. • Diesel vehicles that specify SAE 5W-30 requiring ACEA C2 or ACEA C3. In addition, Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil contains Mid SAP’s technology. Valvoline says this means it is ideal for use in various Japanese and Korean diesel vehicles fitted with DPFs. Many of these vehicles can now be serviced with the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil where the vehicle specifies SAE 5W-30 requiring ACEA C2 or ACEA C3 or MB 229.31.

engines from wear by up to 72 percent when compared to standard engine oils.

Protects against LSPI and improves fuel economy

Helping to improve your workshop

LSPI is an abnormal, uncontrolled combustion event that can occur in modern Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) engines. In some cases, this can result in catastrophic engine failure. Research suggests that LSPI most commonly occurs during rapid acceleration and in GDI and TGDI engines operating in low speed and high load driving conditions. Valvoline says its Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil is an API SN PLUS to protect against Low Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI). It also states that another benefit of the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil is that it can improve fuel economy up to 1.5 percent in certain vehicles and also protects

Not only does the Valvoline Professional MultiVehicle 5W-30 engine oil service the fastest growing segment in the Australian automotive marketplace, it can rationalise up to five engine oils from the Valvoline range. Valvoline says this means workshops could save time in choosing which oil to use and improve workshop efficiencies by potentially holding less stock – the one engine oil could mean less oil storage space on the workshop floor, leading to greater efficiency. For more information on this new product, how it could benefit your business, or to place an order, call Valvoline on 1800 458 237 (Customer Service) or 1800 804 658 (Technical Hotline).

PRODUCTS

WORKSHOP EQUIPMENT SOLUTIONS MAHA has supplied Euro Motorsport a range of German made premium workshop equipment MAHA says its workshop equipment is known the world over for premium quality and attention to detail. As such, it says it is no surprise that its equipment can be found in some of the best workshops in Australia. One of these workshops is Euro Motorsport, located in Clayton, Victoria. “Working on the world’s finest cars requires absolute dedication and an unlimited hunger to overcome ongoing challenges in new technologies,” Euro Motorsport Founder and Managing Director, Nik Manukyan, said.

“To enable us to create a workplace for a dedicated team of technicians to work effectively on the type of cars we do, we demand the best tools and equipment. “After a lot of research and flying around the globe from one expo to another, I found MAHA workshop equipment to be the highest quality available. “It took only one phone call to MAHA Australia for me to fall in love with the product and the next thing I knew, I was packing my luggage and heading to Germany to visit the MAHA factory where I got to understand the brand and the quality I was after, and it didn’t take me long to make my decision. “I purchased the MAHA MSR500 four-wheel drive dyno and six hoists to extend our workshop capabilities. “I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. We are now able to dyno the world’s best Supercars with extreme confidence and accuracy, which is extremely important for us and our customers. “Lifting these expensive cars to work on can

be difficult, but the MAHA two post and MAHA scissor lift are just perfect for the job. “Now when we are lifting Supercars or daily drive cars it is much easier for our technicians and less time-consuming, it is a win-win. “From that first phone call to MAHA Australia and even today, it has been a pleasure working with the MAHA team here in Australia and in Germany and I would highly recommend anyone looking at vehicle lifting or testing equipment to contact MAHA Australia,” concluded Nik, while thanking MAHA “very much for the excellent product and great ongoing service.” For more information, visit www.maha.com.au or call 1800 006 242.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

DIY ROADSIDE ASSISTANCE Introducing the Parksafe All in One Tyre Sealant and Inflation System Burg Design says its new Parksafe All in One Tyre Sealant and Inflation System is an essential item for all owners of vehicles who do not already have this item as standard equipment. Many of today’s vehicles do not come with a spare wheel and tyre while some come with a space saver and others with just an expensive to replace sealant and inflation system, so it is very important to check what your vehicle is equipped with for peace of mind and to know what you can do in the event of a flat tyre. A full-size spare wheel and tyre will always be a great advantage but is definitely not for everyone as many drivers have either no idea of how to safely change over to a spare wheel and tyre or are incapable of doing so.

PROTEX ULTRA 4WD Heavy duty range for 4WD, SUV and demanding off-road conditions Whether for towing, off-road adventures or everyday city driving, Protex Parts says fourwheel-drive vehicles need high performance braking systems. It says the Protex Ultra 4WD range delivers the right stopping power in all sorts of challenging driving conditions. While specifically catering to the needs of 4WD and SUV vehicles engaging in off-road driving and towing, Protex Ultra 4WD is equally suitable to everyday driving.

Tough brakes for heavy-duty activities The Protex Ultra 4WD range has reportedly been developed from the latest innovations in design and manufacturing. Protex Parts says therefore, there are many benefits such as: • Anti-corrosion: the disc rotors are coated with “Ultracoat Z360” coating for anti-corrosion protection and faster fitment. • Better stability: high carbon rotor formulation provides better stability under high thermal stress such as off-road conditions and towing. • Enhanced cooling: custom slotting, drilling and various vane designs for optimised

cooling and heat dissipation, especially relevant to high heat loads that often accompany heavy braking. • Environmentally friendly: copper-free brake pads for minimal environmental impact and cleaner waterways without compromising performance. • Quieter braking: multi-layered pads with optimised shim, chamfer and slots to reduce noise and vibration. • Short bedding-in time: ceramic pads are prescorched for instant braking performance straight from the box. With more part numbers continually being added, Protex Parts says its Protex Ultra 4WD range covers all the popular 4WD applications including Toyota Hilux, Ford Ranger, Mazda BT50, Mitsubishi Triton, Nissan Patrol, Mitsubishi Pajero, Toyota LandCruiser and many other models, including SUVs. And it says that just like the rest of the Protex range, Ultra 4WD brakes deliver great stopping performance, every time. For more information, visit www.protexparts.com.au

DUAL COLOUR EMERGENCY BEACONS And also it must be considered that when a puncture eventually does occur, you may find yourself in a convenient and safe location and wait and wait for roadside assistance, however you could also be out in the middle of “Ship Creek” where roadside assistance could take a very long time to arrive, says Burg Design. It says this is where the Parksafe System comes into play as it is very simple for most people to use and operate and to quickly and safely get back on the road in just a few minutes. Burg Design says the Parksafe system is OEM Factory quality as supplied directly to various vehicle manufacturers and it comes with full operating instructions and a local three-year warranty. Most importantly, it says, the tyre sealant is a replaceable item so you can have your kit ready for the next unfortunate event. For further information, contact Burg Design P/L via sales@burgdesign.com.au or on 03 9555 9277 or visit the team at 28 Bignell Road, Moorabbin (Victoria). 26

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

From QLED Whether it be internal lighting for RVs, marine and the motor body industry, or scene and perimeter lighting for emergency services and tow truck recovery vehicles; there is always something in the QLED range to suit the application, says QLED. In celebrating QLED’s tenth year in this market, 2020 will see QLED introduce its next generation of amber emergency lighting. QLED says the first phase of units will remain “of the highest quality we are known for, along with being extremely competitive and built with an emphasis on product longevity!” These beacons are in the midsized height at 111mm, making this model suitable for the utility market and the small truck market. Also to be launched is an Amber and Green beacon, which will be compliant with the safety requirements of mining, industrial and government bodies.

This unit’s operations allow for the beacon to flash amber whilst in normal operation. Then once the vehicle becomes stationary and all safety procedures are followed, the beacon can then switch to flash green, indicating the vehicle is now safer to approach. This beacon can also alternate between flashing amber and green. Also being released will be QLED’s new ‘Scene Lamps’ which are available in a black and white body, operating through 11-36 volt and boasting an impressive raw output of 900 lumen over a 120-degree light angle. Angled mounting wedges will also be available. For more information, please visit www.qled.com.au or call 07 5456 2656.

PRODUCTS

FUCHS TITAN GT1 FLEX 34 Fuchs says it has flexed its technological muscle with this new release Fuchs says the release of its Titan GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30 product reinforces its ability to deliver an efficient solution for Asian and European modern passenger cars and light commercial vehicles. Building on last year’s release of the “game-changing” Titan GT1 Flex 23 SAE 5W-30, Fuchs says it is pleased to promote another of its Australian made with German technology engine oils with the release of Titan GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30. Like the Titan GT1 Flex 23 SAE 5W-30 which combines ACEA C2 and C3 in one product, Titan GT1 Flex 34 provides ACEA C3 and C4 coverage whilst also featuring approvals from two key European original equipment vehicle manufacturers – hence, the usage of ‘Flex’ and ‘34’ within the product’s name and Fuchs part number (ie. 4934). However, Fuchs says it is the ability of Titan GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30 to service vehicles requiring either an ACEA C3 and/or C4 requirement which is most impressive, particularly for those workshops servicing vehicles from a number of Asian and European original equipment vehicle manufacturers. In fact, Titan GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30 is an engine oil which not only can be used in the Nissan Navara, Pathfinder and X-Trail but also selected Infiniti and Renault models. Along with its approvals from Mercedes Benz (MB Approval 226.51 and 229.51) and Renault (RN0720) and thanks to some market data research conducted by Fuchs Lubricants Australasia, Titan GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30 reportedly has the potential to provide market coverage for nearly seven hundred thousand vehicles across the Australian and New Zealand car parc. In addition to its ACEA C3 and C4 specification, Titan GT1 Flex 34 was also developed for some Renault and Mercedes Benz engines with exhaust after-treatment and turbochargers whilst also featuring good cold-starting performance, high wear protection levels and low fuel consumption. Furthermore, Titan GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30 is available in either a 5L bottle or 205L drum and replaces the recently deleted Titan GT1 Pro C-4 SAE 5W-30. Fuchs says another example of it flexing its technological muscle can be found in the fact that when workshops stock both the Titan GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30 and Titan GT1 Flex 23 SAE 5W-30, they can enjoy ACEA C2 to C4 vehicle coverage with just two products – a fact not lost on Fuchs Lubricants Australasia’s Managing Director, Wayne Hoiles. “With its combination of ACEA C3 and C4 – together with its list of European approvals and impressive performance capabilities – Fuchs’ new GT1 Flex 34 SAE 5W-30 reinforces our capability of providing flexible engine oil solutions for the Australasian market,” Wayne said. Fuchs explains that it has developed, produced and sold lubricants and related specialties for more than 85 years for virtually all areas of application and sectors. With 62 companies and more than 5,600 employees worldwide, the Fuchs Group says it is the leading independent supplier of lubricants. For more information, call 1800 180 013 or visit www.fuchs.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

CABIN AIR FILTERS For over 1000 applications Adrad says it has recently extended its range of high-quality cabin air filters from recognised brands such as Adair, Fram, Mann Filter and Valeo. The range reportedly suits more than 1000 applications including passenger cars, 4x4s and commercial vehicles. With spring around the corner, now is the perfect time to stock up on quality cabin filters and auto air products. Effective air conditioning during the hot months is essential and every customer will want to know how to keep the cool air coming. In particular, replacing the cabin filter can do wonders for the incabin experience, ensuring that passengers can breathe easy and avoid experiencing discomfort from airborne allergens. A dirty or clogged filter can restrict the HVAC system, placing unnecessary load on the blower motor and resulting in poor air flow and cooling performance. If the cabin filter is missing or damaged, dust, mould spores and pollen can circulate through the air and make for an uncomfortable ride, especially in warm weather or if you suffer from respiratory conditions. Adrad explains that replacing the cabin air filter before summer will help get rid of any debris and prepare the vehicle for the warm months ahead. Cabin air filters should be replaced regularly and are an opportunity to add extra sales while looking after your customers.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

Adrad says it has the largest range of aftermarket engine cooling and auto air parts with Australia-wide distribution and national warranty support. The range includes service parts, workshop equipment and cleaning products and continues to grow with around 3,500 new products added over the past year. Adrad states that its aftermarket parts meet or exceed OE specifications, and with the companyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s accreditation to ISO9001-2015, it says you can be confident that Adrad-supplied parts are quality products. For more information on Adradâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s extensive product range, call its customer service team on 1800 882 043.

PRODUCTS

MOTHERS MICROFIBRE ACCESSORIES RANGE From Command Auto Group Command Auto Group says its Mothers High Performance Car Care Accessories range features unique and high-quality microfibre products to complement its Mothers Polish range. Command Auto/Mothers Polish have developed this range of accessories to satisfy the needs of even the most discerning automotive enthusiast; with high quality construction and development ensuring consumers get the perfect professional finish they expect from the Mothers product range. The range includes nine key products: • Microfibre Chenille Wash Sponge and Wash Mitt - safe for use on all surfaces, soft fingers safely lift away dirt and debris. Also features soft bug scrub mesh. • Microfibre Chenille Wash Mitt – great for cleaning complex shapes and safe for use on all surfaces, soft fingers safely lift away dirt and debris. • Platinum Microfibre Towel – deluxe thick microfibre (1200gsm) is safe for all surfaces while offering a super soft, ultra-durable towel that is great for drying. • Microfibre Twist Drying Towel – Command Auto Group says this towel holds water like no other while providing a professional streak-free finish. It is safe to use on all surfaces. • Microfibre Polishing Pad – perfect for use with polishes, waxes and coatings and delivering superior performance and coverage, this pad also includes a hand pocket for maximum control. • Total Care Applicator Pack – perfect for applying polishes, waxes and coatings as well as protectants and tyre shine, the Total Care Applicator Pack also features a handle for increased control and comfort.

• Ultra-Soft Polishing Cloth – this cloth is perfect for use with spray detailers and waxes, with the extra thick dual sided towel providing effortless polish and wax removal. • Ultra-Soft Microfibre Pack – six ultra-soft towels deliver the absolute finest finish with effortless polish and wax removal. • Total Care Microfibre Kit – a super absorber microfibre drying towel, spotless glass and mirror cleaning towel and a multi-purpose microfibre towel are all included in this kit. These products reportedly ensure you have maximum control in your detailing efforts with soft, durable and safe products for use on all surfaces. Each of the products in the range have been designed to meet modern vehicle care techniques and specifications. Command Auto Group says the Mothers Microfibre Accessories range provides high value and results to the consumer and also to the retailer with great presentation and margin. For more information or to secure the range for your store, please contact Command Auto Group on sales@tcag.com.au or 028853 2900 or visit www.commandauto.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

NEW CRC FOGGER WINMAX W1 For performance-minded drivers SANITISER Providing one-step protection in workshops, vehicles and other spaces up to 40 cubic metres CRC Industries, a leading global speciality products and cleaning solutions manufacturer for the automotive, consumer and industrial market, has announced its latest sanitiser product to help the fight against COVID-19. The new CRC Fogger Sanitiser is an Australianmade industrial strength sanitiser that reportedly kills 99.9 percent of germs and provides long lasting, residual protection. Once discharged, the CRC Fogger Sanitiser generates a sanitising fog that kills germs in spaces up to 40 cubic metres. CRC Industries Trans-Tasman Managing Director, Murray Walbran, said the product had been developed to sanitise an entire room or commercial vehicle - walls, ceiling, floor, every nook and cranny – in one easy step. “Just activate then leave the enclosed space and the product will start working, getting into all the hard to reach spots to kill the germs that conventional cleaning techniques miss,” Murray said. For use on a range of surfaces, CRC Fogger Sanitiser starts working instantly and can have sanitised a whole room in as little as 30 minutes. Applications include rapid decontamination of automotive workshops, buses and commercial vehicles as well as classrooms, retail outlets, offices, tool sheds and household rooms.

Motorsport Brakes says that its range boasts a healthy cross section of brake pads for use on the street. It explains that it has found the most popular of these options to be the W1 compound, from Winmax Japan. “These pads are for those cars which are not seeing any track work, but whose performance-minded drivers are looking for improved performance and temperature ability over OEM style brake pads – for instance, for when they get a hard time in the odd mountain pass,” Motorsport Brakes Director, Marty Beckton, said. “Our pads for street use are designed to improve the experience and stopping power for road going performance cars and are manufactured using organic non-metal materials. “Using these materials means lower levels in dust and noise properties. “The friction range is 0.29 – 0.32µ and the operating temp range is 0 – 450°C. “When it comes to making recommendations to our customers, we advise that they consider using Winmax W1 instead of other products such as Endless NS97, Ferodo DS Performance and Pmu NS-EP.” Motorsport Brakes explains it was established to supply premium brake friction products to the Australian and NZ performance and competition markets. The company says it is now the world’s largest brake pad distributor for Winmax Corp and it also distributes world class racing brake pad brand, Circo Racing Brake Pads. All Australian distribution of Winmax and Circo products is warehoused at the MSB base in Yatala, Queensland. The business operates inventory management software which allows for B2B access by Trade and Wholesale partners for all stock and ‘overnight’ purchases. For more information, visit www.motorsportbrakes.com.au

NARVA EXPANDS MODEL 39 LOW PROFILE LAMP RANGE More options now on offer Narva says that for years its Model 39 range of rear lighting lamps have proven a popular choice for use on trucks, trailers, caravans and utility trays. Now it says there are more options on offer with the introduction of the latest combination strip lamp variants. The new models, which are available in 12V or in 9-33V multi-voltage circuitry variants, both feature Stop/Tail/Directional combinations, providing complete functionality in a single lamp, and making them ideal for fitment to vehicles with limited mounting areas.

Available in a 210ml atomiser, CRC Fogger Sanitiser joins the CRC Sanitiser family consisting of CRC Surface Sanitiser and Cleaner, CRC Surface Sanitiser aerosol, CRC Surface Fragrance Free and the CRC Sanitiser Liquid Range.

Fully road legal, the lamps also provide owners with the flexibility to recess or surface mount them and fit them either vertically or horizontally, depending on the look you want to achieve.

“Through COVID19, the demand for cleaning and sanitising products has increased exponentially. CRC is excited to respond to our customer’s requirements and provide effective, locally manufactured sanitising solutions to the Australian market,” Murray said.

Further aiding the Model 39 Combination Strip Lamps’ durability is fully sealed construction to IP66 and IP67 standards.

For more information, visit www.crcindustries.com.au 34

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

To ensure strong performance in demanding Australian conditions, the tough lamps are tested to handle operating temperatures ranging from -20°C to +60°C, and benefit from UV stable ASA covers that securely protect the enclosed LEDs.

Narva says the lamps have virtually unbreakable polycarbonate lenses and stainless steel mounting hardware, while ECE R10 compliance for EMC minimises electrical interference for owners. Narva’s Model 39 Combination Strip Lamps are backed by a five-year LED warranty and can be purchased from leading automotive, transport, 4x4 and camping outlets Australia-wide. For more information, visit www.narva.com.au

PRODUCTS

FIND THE PERFECT BATTERY With Century’s complete battery finder and fitment system Vehicle technology is changing at a rapid rate with manufacturers incorporating more advanced technologies and electronics into vehicles as standard. How many times have we heard the saying batteries don’t last as long as they used to, or they don’t make them as good as they used to? Century Batteries says neither is true, stating that batteries are better now than they’ve ever been. It wasn’t that long ago that reversing cameras, parking sensors or assisted parking systems were optional extras – yet many of these are now fitted as standard in today’s vehicles. Similarly, manufacturers are also incorporating advanced emission control technologies and battery management systems into vehicles to meet global CO2 emission standards and performance targets.

With the introduction of all this new technology, it is critical to not only ensure the correct battery (both in terms of technology and capacity) is fitted, but also that specific step by step pre-and post-installation procedures are followed during battery replacements. These steps will help you avoid vehicle damage, loss of system functionality and even premature battery failure down the track. In a nutshell, battery replacement is no longer the simple task it once was. Century says it is here to help with its ‘Battery Fitment Solution,’ a complete battery finder and fitment system designed to assit with battery replacement in this rapidly changing market place. It says this new system will help to ‘future proof’ your business by providing a complete battery finder and fitment solution. The system allows you to easily identify vehicles, presents the battery replacement options for that vehicle and then provides an estimated battery fitment time to replace it. More importantly, it also provides you with detailed fitment instructions to ensure the battery will be installed correctly.

Compatible with desktop computers, tablets and mobile phones, you can search for a vehicle by typing in the registration number, VIN, or through a standard make/model search. Once the correct battery has been selected, you can view the estimated time required to fit the battery into the vehicle, and also download the detailed step-by-step fitment instructions required. The system will also advise if the Yu-Fit configuration tool is required as part of the battery replacement process. Century says its battery finder system is just one of many exciting initiatives it has available. For more information or assistance with the system, please contact your Century Yuasa representative on 1300 362 287.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

TRW’S EXPERT BRAKE PROGRAM EXPANDS ZF Aftermarket has announced the expansion of the program in Australia Now available through ZF Services Australia, the TRW braking product line up is said to set a new standard for the industry, “with an expert range transforming the premium end of the aftermarket.” With a reputation earned through 100 years of OE quality components across the automotive spectrum, ZF Aftermarket says its updated Australian TRW offering includes in excess of 14,000 brake pads and 14,700 discs. “ZF Aftermarket with its TRW product brand has developed worldwide a top-flight reputation for their superior braking products, with the expanded offering in Australia already finding favour with local workshops,” TRW Business Development Manager, Steve Borg, said.

“TRW’s intimate knowledge of the field results in braking components that not only show the way in terms of safety, but also for ease of installation by technicians. “For instance, outside of product advancements that make TRW brake pads and rotors easier to fit, there is the fact that the new pads don’t require bedding in, while they also offer shorter braking distances when new. “From a consumer’s perspective, TRW products offers long lasting safety. “With these credentials on board, it’s exciting to be a part of the brand’s invigoration in Australia.” Over the decades, TRW, a premium brand of ZF Aftermarket, has reportedly worked hand-in-hand with leading OEMs on cutting edge systems that have led the market for more than 100 years. TRW made the first wooden wheels for the legendary Ford Model T back in 1908, and now over a century later, TRW continues to lead the way, growing its innovative range of braking parts across all applications, including EVs and hybrids. In 2020, TRW enjoys the input of 6,000 engineers, designers and experts from around the globe into the development of its products, ensuring they remain at the forefront. ZF says the TRW product range of brake pads and discs show the way, no matter the application, be

it passenger vehicles, motorcycles, or in light and heavy commercial vehicles. For instance, in brake pads, advanced COTEC coating produced from natural occurring silicates, reportedly allow for improvements of seven metres in stopping distance when fitted new. It says TRW’s DTEC brake pads take the COTECcoated range to the next level, by reducing rim surface dust by up to 45 percent. Especially produced for electric vehicles, TRW’s Electric Blue brake pads feature low dust characteristics, complete with rubberised PTFEcoated accessories, which further reduce noise. In brake discs, a range of different parts are now available in Australia, with sections of the disc finished in a specialist black paint, which protects against corrosion. The discs are wrapped with corrosive-resistant VCI paper, while also offering market leading bedding-in performance. For more information, contact ZF Aftermarket on 1800 937 2537 or visit www.aftermarket.zf.com/au/trw

SAKURA OIL FILTERS Keeping your engine oil clean An oil filter’s primary function is in keeping the engine oil clean and free from contaminants. It removes tiny particles and debris in the oil and helps protect the engine components from excessive wear.

They are made from metal end caps or plastic end caps that hold the filter’s media together. Cartridge element filters are also supplied with replacement O-ring for the housing and recommended to be changed at every service.

The contaminants in the oil can come from wear of moving components, soot, dirt, dust and water.

Regular maintenance of the oil filter is required in keeping your vehicle running at its best.

The types of oil filters can be in the form of spin-on or cartridge element.

The regular service interval for oil filters is generally 10,000 - 15,000km or six months to one year, depending on whichever comes first. Sakura Filters Australia says it is best to consult your log book service manual for correct service intervals.

A typical spin-on filter is comprised of an outer shell metal canister housing the filter element and is screwed onto the mount on the engine. They are a self-contained housing where the filter element is inside the metal canister with a baseplate and gasket that seals up to the mounting surface on the engine. A spin-on oil filter may also can contain a by-pass valve and/or anti drain-back valve in the filter. Cartridge element filters are simply the replaceable elements within a housing. 38

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

Sakura Filters Australia has been in the aftermarket filtration industry for more than 28 years in the Australian and New Zealand markets. Its range includes filters for automotive, light commercial, heavy industrial, marine, farm and mining machinery. Sakura Filters Australia says it has an extensive

range of filters which covers most of the local market’s needs. Laboratory tested, Sakura says its filters provide maximum performance and fit for your vehicle. The filters have been produced to meet the highest JIS/SAE International Technical Standards and are manufactured according to the quality assurance standard TUV SUB ISO/TS 16949:2009. Sakura Filters Australia has also attained the Australian Standards AS/NZ ISO9001. Sakura Oil Filters are available from your local Sakura Filters distributor. For more information, visit www.sakurafilters.com.au or call 1800 246 302.

PRODUCTS

NEW MICHELIN AGILIS 3 LAUNCHED For light commercial vehicles Michelin is set to launch Michelin Agilis 3 into the light commercial tyre market, targeting conventional load customers involved in people and goods transportation activities. It says the newly launched tyre aims to capture the larger high-potential, light-load segment with exceptional solutions – in terms of safety, performance, and environment. “In line with Michelin’s ‘Performance and Safety Made to Last’ brand promise, the new Michelin Agilis 3 is outfitted with innovative technologies and sophisticated features for long-lasting performance with optimum safety and environmental friendliness,” Michelin B2B Marketing Leader – Urban Mobility, Shane Chadderton, said. “These attributes not only provide a competitive advantage over current competitors in the same market segment, but also reinforces Michelin’s commitment for a more sustainable mobility. Essentially, this tyre is well-positioned to be a sustainable urban growth engine. “The latest breakthrough is further evidence of Groupe Michelin’s sustainable-performance strategy in favour of safer, cleaner, more accessible and more efficient mobility.” Key technologies and features incorporated in Michelin Agilis 3 include: • Stone Ejectors: horizontal bars in the tread

groove designed to minimise stone trapping, resulting in a tyre that keeps customers’ downtime to a minimum and lowers running costs; • Sidewall Shields: made with an abrasionresistant rubber compound, that provides extra sidewall shoulder protection of 1.5mm thickness versus the current generation, without compromising the casing flexibility; • An innovative Compound with higher density of silica and carbon black materials for improved wet grip, fuel saving, and mileage performances; • U-Shape Grooves which allow a higher water clearance for lasting wet grip performance; • Full Depth Sipes which help ensure good flexibility of the tread blocks, resulting in market-leading wet grip performance, both when new and when worn; and • Under Tread which keeps the operating temperature cooler thus helping to reduce fuel costs. With the aforementioned technologies and features, Michelin says Agilis 3 delivers three outstanding benefits: • A shorter wet braking distance of five percent or up to 1.9 meters shorter when new, and 11 percent or up to 3.8 meters shorter when worn, when compared to its major competitors1; • A superior mileage performance of 25 percent more mileage compared to its previous generation, with less downtime caused by tyre damage2. • Twelve percent superior rolling resistance, plus 90ml/100km less fuel consumption and 228g/100km less CO2 emission, than average competitors3. “As 97 percent of Michelin Agilis 3 are sourced within the region, it ensures effective on-demand delivery across Asia Pacific countries (and)

minimises environmental impact and shipment costs,” Michelin B2B Commercial Director, Nathan Flynn, said. “Moreover, the newly launched tyre is specifically designed with RC or robust crown to meet challenges of the region’s usages and road conditions. “With uncompromised performance plus all the benefits and advantages that come with it under the ‘Safer for Longer’ slogan, we are convinced that Michelin Agilis 3 will be warmly received and greatly appreciated in Australia.” The new Michelin Agilis 3 is now available at Michelin’s authorised commercial light truck tyre dealers across the nation. All size ranges (including four new sizes), from 13- to 17-inch diameter, cover the entire light one-to-three tonne load segment of Australia’s commercial light truck tyre market. For further details, please visit www.michelin.com.au 1 Wet braking test conducted by TUV Rheinland Thailand Ltd, on Michelin’s request, in June 2020, on dimension 215/70R15C on Toyota Hiace Commuter, laden condition of 2,950 kg GVW. Comparing NEW and WORN MICHELIN Agilis 3 versus three other competitor brands of tyres. WORN condition: tyres tested at 2mm remaining tread depth. 2 Test result from Michelin internal test, conducted on real roads in Thailand, with 215/70R15C tyres fitted on Ford Ranger (ute truck). Load: Front axle: 1446 kg / Rear axle: 1443 kg. Wear life index was calculated by the “Harmonic average” of 4 tires assuming the Customer regularly rotates tires. 3 Rolling Resistance Test performed at Thailand Automotive Institute and certified by TUV Rheinland Thailand Ltd, on Michelin’s request, in December 2019, on dimension 215/70R15C. Comparing MICHELIN Agilis 3 RC versus other competitor brands.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

KEEPING A GRIP ON THE ROAD Maintaining shock absorbers is essential for safe vehicle operation and also improves driving comfort The vibrations occurring in a vehicle’s wheels and body are eliminated or significantly reduced by shock absorbing elements, thanks to the damping of vibrations generated in the vehicle’s suspension system. The correct functioning of the suspension system is essential, increasing the adhesion of the vehicle to the road surface because it increases the duration of vehicle contact with the ground when travelling across an uneven surface. The service life of the vehicle as well as the functioning reliability of other subsystems, passengers’ comfort and the condition of transported goods is also significantly affected. Therefore, the determination of a shock absorber’s condition is crucial for correct vehicle operation. AutoTest says it is ironic that often when a vehicle’s braking system is inspected, it is not done in line with the testing of the wheel’s traction. It says that no matter how effective a vehicle’s brakes are, they are useless if the wheels cannot effectively grip the road.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

An ineffective wheel will lead to extended stopping distances and inefficient driver assistance systems, such as ABS and ESP. In turn, a wheel can become counter-productive, bouncing will persist and its shock absorber will be damaged. Unfortunately, most inspections are only conducted visually and therefore 50 percent of wheels are not properly assessed. AutoTest says this will continue to be a common problem, unless shock absorber testing becomes an integral part of the inspection process. Shock absorbers have a limited life span and AutoTest says that on average, 10 percent will fail within five years and therefore states it is critical to conduct shock absorber tests in line with all visual inspections. AutoTest explains that to maintain the suspension system in a safe condition, you need to know the shock absorber performance during the life of the vehicle. It says the brake system has an objective check method and validation criteria, regulated

by most authorities that must be met for approval of the vehicle in order to determine the system effectiveness, and states this is also reinforced in some domains by a regular periodic inspection. AutoTest says its AutoTest Suspension Meter is an effective and compact device that is suitable on all light vehicles and determines the performance of individual shock absorbers. It is a handheld, battery powered shock absorber tester that displays results in seconds and is compatible with the compact AutoTest Bluetooth Printer. For more information, visit www.autotest.net.au

PRODUCTS

PERFORMANCE AS A LIFESTYLE Bilstein EVO S available now for the BMW 3 Series (G20) and Volkswagen Golf VIII Bilstein presented its new Bilstein EVO Performance Line for the first time at the 2019 Essen Motor Show.

performance and maximum comfort, impressing with its high-quality workmanship and cool anthracite look.

Now, the first two offshoots of the new coilover suspension kit can be ordered, with the Bilstein EVO S coilover suspension kit now available for the current BMW 3 Series (G20) as well as the new Volkswagen Golf VIII.

Bilstein says that thanks to the further development and internal fixing of the one-piece spring plate, its engineers were able to achieve a lowering of up to 70mm for the BMW 3 Series and 20-35mm at the front and 5-40mm at the rear for the Volkswagen Golf VIII.

Bilstein says its EVO S coilover kit is a real all-rounder: chic when stationary and fast on the road. It has reportedly been developed for maximum

Its shock absorber setting, which has been doubletuned in the Bilstein road test, ensures steering behaviour for optimal road feel with a high level of comfort. Further, Bilstein says that due to the tighter shock absorbers, significantly higher cornering speeds are possible compared to the standard suspension. Bilstein explains that the EVO S coilover kit is one of three models in the EVO LINE range that will be available for an increasing number of vehicles in 2020, stating that this generally still includes the EVO SE version for vehicles with a standard adaptive suspension and the EVO R for use on the race track.

The Bilstein EVO S for the current BMW 3 Series and Volkswagen Golf VIII is now available in dealerships and workshops and in Bilsteinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s online shop at shop.bilstein.com Also available now for the Volkswagen Golf VIII is Bilsteinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s B6 high-performance shock absorber, which Bilstein says stands for improved standard replacement parts and offers a noticeable increase in damping force with the same length as the original. The product is initially available for the 1.5 TSI with electronic damper adjustment, to which it is fully compatible. For more information, visit www.performance.bilstein.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

NEW HOFMANN GEOLINER 320

LIGHT YOUR WAY WITH CONFIDENCE With road legal driving lighting

High quality 3D Wheel Alignment made easy Hofmann says implementation, installation, measurement, interface and service are made easy with the new Hofmann geoliner 320 3D Portable Imaging Wheel Aligner. “Simple to use and movable so it can go anywhere in the shop, the new Hofmann geoliner 320 is an asset for shops expanding their aligner business,” Hofmann National Equipment Manager, James Morris, said.

“Because of its compact size and robust design, the Hofmann 320 conducts high quality imaging alignments in shorter bays, making it unlike anything else available on the market today.”

Key features: • Easy implementation – enabling shops to easily add premium alignment capability to their service repertoire. This revolutionary new design enables a high-quality alignment system to be added in bays that previously could not accommodate conventional imaging alignment systems. • Easy installation – it has no moving parts and requires a minimal footprint for usage. • Easy measurement – rolling run-out compensation means the user can just mount and roll to measure. There is no lifting, headcharging, head-levelling or adaptors required – the technician simply needs to place the 320 on the lift and it is ready to align. • Easy interface – the next-generation software is easy to learn and use. This enhanced aligner software features a notification system providing critical information without slowing down the alignment process and an adaptive user interface delivers instant access to productivity tools and assistance whenever required. • Easy service – maintenance and service is simple as the 320 is repairable on-site and automatic software and specification updates can be made remotely. For more information, visit www.hofmann-equipment.com 48

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

LED Autolamps, a designer and manufacturer of quality automotive aftermarket lighting, says it is proud to announce its latest release in forward function lighting: the new DL series nine-inch road approved high-powered driving lights. LED Autolamps says the new driving lights are loaded with the latest features in illumination. When you look at the DL series, it says you will first notice its striking inner lens design that appears to leap out at you, with the strip style, front position lamp creating a lineal aesthetic further enhanced when mounted with multiple units. The specially designed parabolic inner lens reportedly projects the high beam function perfectly. The light boasts solid but surprisingly lightweight construction and offers high powered LEDs outputting a usable 610m road beam distance all at a cool 6000K white light. LED Autolamps says you can rest assured that these lamps are perfectly legal for on-road use, complying with ECE R112 for High beam function and ECE R7 for Front Position. It states they will undoubtedly augment your existing vehicle’s headlamps. These new driving lights are available in two handy sizes to give you a choice when deciding which will fit your particular vehicle application: the DL226 round, measuring 226mm round x 114mm; and the DL245 oval shape design with an overall size of 245mm x 178mm x 109mm. They come standard in a wide voltage range of 9-32V which suits multiple vehicle applications. The DL range also runs at a very low current draw of only 1.25 Amps @ 13.8 Volts or 0.6 Amps @28 Volts. A low current draw is an essential consideration for energy efficiency and drains on battery-powered requirements. LED Autolamps says it knows you expect a product that is built tough and delivers on

superior reliability and durability, but says you need not worry, as the DL range is up to the task. Engineered to withstand the rigours of Australia’s roads, these lamps are manufactured using a heavy-duty polycarbonate for the housing and outer lens, thus making them extremely durable, lightweight and impact resistant. A super sturdy adjustable 2.0mm stainless steel bracket holds the lamp allowing precise positioning; secured with stainless bolts and fittings, ensuring vibration resistance with a neat protective cover to finish the fit. Tested to IP67 water and dust ingress protection, they have an operating temperature range of -30° C to +50° C, which will assure you of troublefree, long service life, says LED Autolamps. LED Autolamps also offers a full range of forward-facing lighting, approved for Australian Road use that includes the following: Daytime Running Lamps, Front outline markers, Front indicators, 5x7”, five ¾” and 7” Replacement or upgrade Headlamp inserts, 90mm Projector Headlamps. In addition, it also offers a range of Off-Road LED globe inserts as well as highpowered TIR driving lamps and accessories. Exclusively designed, LED Autolamps says this distinctive, innovative new range uses its renowned smart manufacturing and conformity of production practices to deliver a product that will not only have you looking good but also Road legal. The lamps are now available and are said to be perfect for Trucks, Trade utilities, 4x4s or any vehicle that wants to fit extra high-powered driving lighting. The lamps are supplied in a twin hang and stand blister pack and come with a three-year warranty. For more information, visit www.ledautolamps.com for the details of your local distributor or call LED Autolamps on 03 9466 7075.

PRODUCTS

NEW FROM ACS New ClutchPro Clutch Fork and Cross Shaft accessories are now available Australian Clutch Services says it has been continuing to expand its range of clutch forks, pivot balls, cross shafts and associated bushes under its standard replacement brand, ClutchPro. ACS says ClutchPro specialises in OE quality replacement components for passenger car, 4x4 and commercial applications including complete clutch kits, hydraulics, flywheels and accessories. As a market leader in replacement clutch system components, ClutchPro is reportedly constantly developing its range to include the latest components and clutch technology. Recently, ClutchPro has added a large variety of clutch forks and associated actuation components to its range. Clutch forks, pivot balls, cross shafts and bushes are often overlooked during the clutch replacement process but should always be checked for excessive wear and cracking to ensure the newly fitted clutch kit is operating effectively and the vehicle sees long-term durability. Replacing these components when required is

important to bring the actuation system back to original specifications. Recent additions to the range include a replacement clutch fork and pivot ball kit for various Mitsubishi Triton models, a clutch fork for the Mitsubishi Evolution X, a clutch fork seal and collar kit to suit Toyota Hilux models, a cross shaft to suit various Suzuki Swift models and many more. ClutchPro also offers heavy duty clutch fork kits such as a newly released LandRover Defender fork that has been engineered for improved durability. “Our range of clutch and actuation accessories is constantly being widened to include new applications as well as heavy duty alternatives for vehicles that require a higher strength alternative,” Australian Clutch Services Business Development Manager, Colin Jevons, said. “Clutch forks are becoming a very popular accessory in our range and we are able to support growing demand for these accessories in the Australian market by stocking these items for quick delivery. “Damage or wear to these items is normally only

discovered after the clutch has been removed from the vehicle so keeping stock onhand is important to support our distribution network throughout Australia.” ACS says ClutchPro is also working to kit as many of these associated clutch actuation items as possible to ensure the installer receives everything required. ClutchPro currently offers clutch fork and pivot ball kits as well as cross shafts and bush kits for an extensive range of vehicles. In addition to this, ClutchPro also includes replacement clips and installation hardware for the forks to fit the release bearing where required. For more information on the ClutchPro range, please visit www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

ULTRAPLUS STEERING DAMPERS From Gabriel Designed to reduce shimmy or the wobbling of the front wheels when on rough terrain, Gabriel explains that a Steering Damper will dampen the steering system’s lateral movement and provide better feel, handling and steering control. In doing so, it will also reduce wear on the tyres and other front end parts. Gabriel says its UltraPLUS Steering dampers offer a number of superior features, including: • a 35mm piston bore, larger than the

equivalent OE and with larger oil volume capacity for longer life • 15mm piston rod, also larger and stronger than OE • Rugged mounts, interchangeable with the original

• Steel shield to protect the rod from stone damage • 50/50 damping control for all steering lateral movement

Also available: Gabriel Strut Mounts When replacing Spring Seat “Coil Over” Shock Absorbers in a 4x4 vehicle, Gabriel says it is strongly recommended to check the condition of the top mounting plate. Off Road conditions and carrying additional weight can cause the front suspension of 4x4 vehicles to work particularly hard and so the top mount tends to wear sooner than in normal driving conditions. Gabriel explains that its Strut and Shock Mounts include a new mounting plate and all necessary replacement hardware. For part numbers, search www.gabrielshocks.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PRODUCTS

FEED THE MONSTER Aeroflow Performance Fuel Pumps and Triple Pump Hangers So, you have done some engine upgrades, and now you need to make sure you have enough fuel feeding the monster, but you also want to keep your current factory tank or fuel cell. Aeroflow Performance says it has you covered, stating it offers a great range of electric fuel pumps to suit all horsepower requirements, which can also be grouped to deal with extreme horsepower requirements. Aeroflow says it also now offers intank fuel pump hangers to suit factory VE/VF Commodore tanks and universal fuel cells. Able to hold from one to three pumps, these hangers are designed to bolt into your existing tank with only simple wiring and plumping modifications required. Aeroflow Performance says it is proud to introduce this direct fit bolt in intank fuel module for the Holden Commodore VE-VF. With modern Commodores being tuned to amazing power levels thanks to E85, Aeroflow says this module is capable of holding up to three x 40mm diameter fuel pumps at a time. It says this will perfectly support power levels from standard all the way to 1800hp while still retaining the factory fuel tank with all standard seals, lock rings and internal crossover lines. It also allows you to reuse the OEM fuel level sender for complete compatibility with factory electronics and features a hermetic wire pass through for “absolutely no chance” for fuel smells/leaks into the cabin while still upgrading to the necessary larger wires. The Aeroflow billet triple pump hangers hold up to three EFI pumps and is available to suit 40mm and 60mm fuel pumps. Now you can upgrade your fuel delivery system without having to replace or customise your fuel cell. The Aeroflow triple pump hanger replaces the standard fuel cell filler cap and is a straight bolt in item. The billet hanger has a built-in fuel cap and has the ability to mount one, two or three 40mm or 60mm diameter fuel pumps depending on which part number you purchase. It is CNC machined from billet 6061-T6 aluminium with a black anodized option for maximum durability and corrosion protection against E85/Methanol. Aeroflow says its electric fuel pump range incorporates a vast array of options to suit your horsepower requirements, from 044 style pumps that can handle up to 675HP to in-tank styles that can feed over 800hp. Most of these pumps are OEM replacement upgrades that can be used individually or mated together in one of Aeroflow’s triple pump hangers to sustain up to 1800hp. Aeroflow states that its pumps have superior flow throughout a wide pressure range, noting that the internal design of the fuel pump is extremely quiet in operation compared to the older style fuel pumps. The pumps are compatible with all fuels such as pump fuel, all types of race fuel and E85. Depending on which pump you buy, the Aeroflow Performance fuel pump comes with filter inlet sock, wiring pigtail, small length of rubber hose (submersible in all fuel types), two clamps to suit rubber hose and two straight crimp connectors. For more information on all Aeroflow Products and your nearest distributor and installer, visit www.aeroflowperformance.com or call 02 8825 1900. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

MEMBER FEATURE

BUILDING A RESILIENT TEAM DRIVES GROWTH AND DELIVERS VALUE GPC Asia Pacific says it has bucked the trend, with its commitment to fostering a culture of compassion, support and understanding building a resilient team which has continued to grow the business during the COVID-19 pandemic While the COVID-19 pandemic has thrown a spanner in the works for an untold number of businesses across Australia, GPC Asia Pacific has continued to invest in and grow both its Repco and NAPA businesses during these challenging times.

to be everything to everyone, as that would just dilute the offer and potentially cause confusion for customers,” Julian said.

“We’ve got two powerful arms in Australia and New Zealand, in Repco and NAPA,” GPC Asia Pacific Chief Financial Officer and Chief Operating Officer, Julian Buckley, said.

Repco Australia Executive General Manager, Wayne Bryant, confirmed that Repco’s approach continues to focus on its dual format model servicing both Trade and Retail channels.

Of course, growing two businesses with their strengths and long heritage in the automotive industry requires extensive and ongoing planning and close coordination to ensure each has a unique customer value proposition (CVP).

Repco’s Trade CVP is based on delivering complete solutions for professional workshops, while in Retail, Repco offers a one-stop shop for enthusiasts who love, fix and drive their cars.

This ensures Repco and NAPA’s respective offers are clear to customers, and each business avoids fighting over the same customer base and ultimately cannibalising sales – a trap many have fallen into over the years. “As we set about simultaneously revitalising Repco and planning our growth strategy for NAPA several years ago, it was critical to ensure that both of these strong arms remained distinct,” Julian explained. “We were confident the Australian automotive aftermarket was large enough to support both brands, and with the trends and dynamics we see in the market, together with our customer segmentation analysis, we knew our customers had a wide variety of needs and requirements better served by two complementary offers.” Armed with this knowledge, the GPC Asia Pacific team worked tirelessly to build out two distinct CVPs. “We certainly didn’t want one business to try

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

“As such, both Repco and NAPA are quite focused in their approach.”

Repco’s Trade and Retail CVP are both reportedly underpinned by an unmatched store network footprint, located conveniently close to customers. “The large majority of the customers that Repco services in the trade space of the aftermarket require parts on-demand within a very short window of time,” Wayne said. “Our footprint positions Repco to deliver within 30 to 60 minutes in most instances. That’s backed by a comprehensive range, knowledgeable staff, and an industry-leading B2B offering that is focused on workshop connectivity.” For almost 100 years, Repco says it has built a reputation as a powerhouse in the Australasian automotive aftermarket. The network includes 316 stores in Australia and another 85 in New Zealand, supported by a distribution centre network with DCs in all major capital cities. “We opened our newest store mid-August 2020, right in the middle of the Stage Four COVID-19 restrictions in Melbourne, which, of

course, provided some unique challenges, but also highlights our commitment to growing the brand,” Wayne said. “We’ve got more stores closer to our customers than anyone else in the market. We’ve got the biggest network of stores, and we’ve got that backed up by a national network of DCs holding product to support both Repco and NAPA.” While NAPA is a newer brand in the Australian market, it builds on the 90-year heritage and legacy of six well-established names in the automotive aftermarket: Ashdown Ingram, Covs, Motospecs, RDA Brakes, R&E Auto Parts, and Global Auto Spares. “The successful launch of NAPA is part of our multi-year strategic plan developed several years ago, and which is now mid-way through the implementation phase,” explained Julian. “We took a deep dive to forecast how the industry would continue to change in coming years, to ensure we positioned our businesses to continue to service customers effectively as their requirements change going forward. “A critical part of the analysis was a review of our business portfolio and their respective strengths and opportunities. “We had six businesses that were operating

MEMBER FEATURE

relatively independently yet in parallel in the market. Covs, R&E and Global Auto Parts were each servicing the general mechanical service market in their respective regions; whilst Ashdown-Ingram, Motospecs and RDA Brakes were focused much more on specialist channels. “While these businesses benefitted from a common support structure, they each went to market independently, with standalone branch networks. “NAPA unifies the heritage, experience and expertise of these six businesses under one roof, to fill what we believe is a significant gap in the Trade segment of Australia’s automotive aftermarket and industrial markets. NAPA offers a one-stop shop for both general and specialist service and repair products.” According to Julian, NAPA offers the market’s leading range backed by ‘NAPA Know How’ with everyday great value. “We have an industry-leading cost base within NAPA that allows us to offer terrific value to our customers, whether they be generalists in trade, specialist automotive and industrial players, or even at the larger end of the mining town, who are looking for a one-stop-shop solution,” said Julian.

Currently, there are 22 NAPA branches across Australia, with 11 new branches opening in 2020 despite the challenges that the COVID-19 pandemic has presented to the GPC Asia Pacific team. “We have an incredible culture, and our team members are the lifeblood of the Repco and NAPA organisations and thrive on rising to meet challenges,” Julian said. “They have clearly demonstrated this over the past six months, not only continuing to offer exceptional service to our customers during the COVID-19 pandemic, but also successfully opening 11 new NAPA branches and four new Repco stores, in spite of travel restrictions and border controls. “At a time like this, it’s incredibly important that companies who can, step-up and do the right thing to support employees.” “Our people are our most valuable asset, and our team members’ safety has long been the number one priority in our business. “At the onset of the COVID-19 crisis, our Group Leadership Team agreed on two over-arching principles that would serve to steer us through the crisis. Firstly, that we would put our team’s health and safety at the forefront of everything we did throughout the crisis. And secondly, we would do everything we could to provide job security and certainty during this period. We are really proud that we have been able to live up to these two important principles thus far.” Despite its main operating entities being ineligible for the JobKeeper Program, GPC Asia Pacific generously self-funded a comparable financial support model for employees during the first rounds of COVID restrictions in April, regardless of the hours worked by their team. In keeping with that approach, GPC Asia Pacific also maintained full wages of full-time and parttime employees in Melbourne throughout the

August and September Stage Four lockdown. It also developed a support plan for casual retail employees, ensuring those working more than 12 hours a week maintained their usual wage. “Of course, the Stage Four lockdown in Melbourne provided us with significant challenges, but we successfully pivoted, in line with the more stringent restrictions, to ensure we continued to adhere to government COVID-Safe guidelines, yet also be able to meet the needs of our trade and retail customers who require service and repair parts to keep essential vehicles moving and supporting permitted industries,” Wayne explained. GPC Asia Pacific’s leadership team knew it had to implement and maintain an adaptable and dynamic stance, to be positioned to overcome the crisis. To this end, it has consistently used a framework described as Anticipate, Act, Pause, and Assess. It says this has allowed GPC Asia Pacific to compile and review as much information as is available in the market to seek to anticipate what may happen next, act to make changes in the business, pause to allow those changes to take effect, and then assess the impact of those changes. This cycle is then continuously repeated to determine the next move. “This framework enabled us to move swiftly and dynamically, and combined with the unwavering dedication of our 6,000 plus employees, it has provided us with the opportunity to grow during the most turbulent market conditions we’ve experienced in our 98-year history,” Julian said. “It has certainly required dedication, adaptability and innovation, but first and foremost it has required compassion. “The culture here at GPC Asia Pacific is amazing. We’ve always been proud of our values and the resilience of our culture, but they have really been at the forefront throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. “It wouldn’t matter if you ran into someone that worked in one of our DCs, in a Repco store or in one of the NAPA branches across the network, you would quickly realise that we have an incredible team, all of whom are willing to lean in and carry a bit of the load when the going gets tough. “They’ve worked really hard to continue to stay focused on doing a great job to serve our customers, comfortable in the knowledge that we will continue to prioritise their safety, well-being and job security, and if we do that and keep our sales up, then together we can weather any storm.” GPC Asia Pacific says it has built a resilient, highly engaged, and passionate workforce that will no doubt secure its future for the next 100 years. To find out more about GPC Asia Pacific, visit www.gpcasiapac.com or call 03 9566 5250. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

PEDDERS’ WEIGHT MERCURY APPOINTS NATIONAL TOWBAR TECHNICAL SUPPORT MANAGER MATRIX The ideal way to capture vehicle weight Vehicle weight from accessories, cargo load and towing represents a significant factor in the safety and performance of your vehicle. Pedders says that is why it developed its “world-first” Weight Matrix software to assist in understanding your vehicle weight, each of your tow and load “scenarios” and most importantly, the critical impacts of weight. Pedders says the software is the ideal way to capture vehicle weight, with the free service providing users with a detailed vehicle weight report at no cost. The Pedders Weight Matrix has also recently gone through a number of upgrades to make it more user friendly and has also been updated with additional vehicle weight data in line with new vehicle model releases.

Mercury is proud to introduce Brad Forsyth in this newly created role

Mercury says Brad brings a wealth of knowledge to this new dedicated role with more than 26 years in the automotive industry. He started his career as an apprentice panel beater and completed his trade qualification before moving into towbars some seventeen years ago, experiencing all aspects of the towbar industry from fitting to R&D and manufacturing. Mercury says this background makes him a perfect fit for his new role, in which he will be backed by Trailboss’ own technical support team. Brad is based at Mercury’s Queensland branch at Darra in Brisbane but is available to Mercury’s customers nationwide. He can be reached by referral via your Mercury state warehouse or directly on 07 3375 3022 or 0427 407 417. Mercury is the national distributor for Trailboss Towbars and has warehouses in Queensland, New South Wales, Victoria and Western Australia. It says the extensive Trailboss range is available in both Class 2 and Class 4, the latter being the ever-popular heavy-duty towbars with a 50mm box section removable hitch. All Trailboss Towbars are first E-coated for enhanced durability and corrosion protection. They are then powder coated for an enhanced finish. Each Trailboss bar comes with vehicle

To use the Pedders Weight Matrix, select your common tow and load vehicle from the dropdown menus. You will then be guided through a wizard to “add weight” to your vehicle, via a series of common accessories, loads and towing items. Following this process, you will be presented with a four-part report highlighting your load, your remaining capacity, your weight shift and your additional braking distance – all referenced to original base weights for your vehicle. Pedders notes that the Pedders Weight Matrix is to be used as a guide only and in some instances uses assumptions or estimates to provide information that is as accurate as possible. For exact vehicle weight and a greater level of detail, expert advice and solutions, Pedders invites you to contact your local participating Pedders Outlet to book your vehicle in for a Pedders Tow and Load Assessment. To view and use the Pedders Weight Matrix, visit https://matrix.pedders.com.au/retail_matrix/ 58

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

specific wiring looms, most of which include plug and play connectors. Mercury’s warehouses also stock the Pro Series range of towing accessories, covering everything from towball covers to bike racks, towing mirrors, weight distribution kits and more. So, whether it is about selecting the right part number, fitting or a question about wiring, Mercury invites you to give Brad a call and put him to the test. To contact Brad, call 07 3375 3022 or 0427 407 417 or email bforsyth@mercurymufflers.com.au

NEW AUSTRALIAN MADE BULLBAR RANGE TUFF Australia recently launched its alloy 4x4 Australian-made bulbar According to TUFF General Manager, Mark Casey, the new bullbar was developed to meet growing demand for lighter alloy vehicle accessories. “Concerns about vehicle weight has driven a trend towards more alloy products and we have noticed this across our bullbar and utility tray range,” Mark said.

“There is also growing demand for Australian manufactured products given recent events.

“The bar is winch compatible and has two mounting points for UHF antennas. “It is made with a 6mm thick folded channel with 60mm tubing and banding to give the strength and durability TUFF is renowned for.” TUFF Australia has also just announced the availability of bullbars, brushrails and trays for the new MY21 Hilux.

“The alloy 4x4 bullbar is available in powder coated, polished and wet spray finishes.

For more information, visit www.tuffaustralia.com.au or contact 1300 238 833.

“Many people still prefer steel due to its strength and ease-of-repair, but alloy is certainly increasing in popularity.

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

REDARC’S ENCAPSULATED PROTECTION DEVICE Specifically engineered and purpose built for modern electric brake installations Installation of aftermarket accessories in modern vehicles with Can Bus systems can require additional precautions to prevent unexpected or undesirable interactions with those systems. A good example of such an accessory is an electric trailer brake controller. To block those interactions (to, for example, adaptive cruise control, stability control, downhill assist etc) REDARC has developed the EPDK-001. This is suitable for use with in-vehicle electric trailer brake controllers, including the REDARC TowPro Elite. The Encapsulated Protection Device has been developed by REDARC to allow normal operation of an electric brake controller, including activation of trailer brake lights during manual override without interfering with vehicle Can Bus which can be known to occur in the often-harsh environment encountered in vehicles, both on road and off road. REDARC says that the following points should be considered: • The EPDK-001 is suitably rated – it is important the module be suitably rated, not only for current but also for voltage drop. Some diodes may be under rated and will tend to overheat and short circuit, so it no longer blocks feedback to the vehicle system, resulting in a number of possible problems, including dash fault lights, turning off cruise control (not desirable in a trailer sway situation)

or interfering with onboard safety equipment or AEB etc. If the over current is high enough, it can even cause the diode body to split and go open circuit. This results in the vehicle brake pedal no longer activating the trailer brakes or brake lights. • The EPDK-001 is mounted on a heatsink – as a diode dissipates power during operation, REDARC have attached the REDARC module to a heatsink to protect it from the excessive temperature rise and safely dissipate the heat generated during normal operation. • The EPDK-001 has secure lead terminations – diode leads tend to be relatively fragile compared to the wires they need to be connected to, especially in a harsh underchassis installation. Any stress or movement of those wires will invariably end up on those fragile diode leads, concentrated at the point where they enter the diode body, making them very prone to breaking off. In fact, those leads tend to break after being flexed just a few times. This results in the vehicle brake pedal no longer activating the trailer brakes or brake lights. • The EPDK-001 has superior weather protection and mounting points – if a diode is installed with its leads/wire joins exposed to water from road spray etc, corrosion will set in very quickly, soon fracturing the leads, usually right at the diode body. This also results in the

vehicle brake pedal no longer activating the trailer brakes or brake lights. REDARC says its module, including the diode circuitry, heatsink and wire terminations, is fully encapsulated in a plastic over-moulded package that includes channels to allow non-slip secure mounting with cable ties. It says that before using a diode, you should ask: is it suitably rated, it is mounted on a heatsink, does it have secure lead terminations, does it have superior weather protection and can it be securely mounted? REDARC advises that many installers advise they typically solder wires onto a diode’s leads, before putting a heatshrink sleeving over the joints and wrapping it in duct tape in the hope it will be waterproof. Then they need to find a way of securing it with cable ties to try not to bend or add further stress to the diode leads. By choosing the REDARC Encapsulated Protection Device, REDARC says you are using a high-quality waterproof module with a mating waterproof connector and 500mm colour coded leads to ensure a quality and trusted installation every time. For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au/ encapsulated-protection-device

ARB BULL BARS ARB manufactures a number of different frontal protection products Vital for rural and remote area travel, ARB says its bull bars provide substantially improved protection for vulnerable mechanical components against animal strikes whilst providing a solid base for mounting other accessories like driving lights, winches and CB antennas. ARB explains its bars are superbly engineered and manufactured to not only maintain maximum functionality, but also to ensure they complement the look of the vehicle. ARB manufactures a number of different bars, including: • Summit Bull Bars • Summit Sahara Bull Bars • Alloy Bull Bars • Commercial Bull Bars • Deluxe Bull Bars • Deluxe Sahara Bar • Nudge Bars • Smart Bars

Bull bar engineering ARB says engineering a bull bar requires careful consideration of a number of factors to ensure it properly serves its purpose. Factors such as vehicle design, crush rate, air bag deployment, approach angles, accessory fitment, strength, weight and aesthetics are incorporated into every ARB bar before it enters production. ARB says you simply won’t find a more thoroughly designed and manufactured vehicle protection system than an ARB bull bar.

Air bag compatibility ARB says it has invested heavily in vehicle crash barrier tests to validate the performance and compliance of its air bag compatible bull bars. To ensure compatibility, ARB explains it assesses each vehicle’s frontal crush characteristics and replicates the crush rate in the design of each air bag compatible bull bar and mounting system.

It says using this method ensures the vehicle’s crush rate and air bag triggering are not altered when a bull bar is installed.

Aesthetics and finish ARB says each ARB bull bar is specifically designed to complement the unique contours of individual vehicle models, stating this ensures the best possible fit, look and functionality for a particular vehicle. All ARB bars are finished in a durable powder coat with the option to colour code to your vehicle in order to further enhance the bar’s appeal and provide a more integrated look. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

ARE YOUR TYRES TOWING SAFE? It is important to check the condition of the tyres on your towed vehicle Bridgestone is urging Australian motorists to check their trailer tyres before returning to the roads. According to Group Technical Field Services Manager for Bridgestone Australia and New Zealand, Garth Middleton, trailer, caravan and boat trailer tyres are at a greater risk of failure because of their infrequent use and less care taken to maintaining their optimal operating conditions when they are sitting dormant. “Some Caravan, boat and trailer owners neglect checking the conditions of their towed vehicle’s tyres, which poses a huge risk on highways,” Garth said. “Tyre pressure, tyre age and the general wellbeing of your trailer tyres should all be checked before use - especially ahead of longer trips where there is a greater heat build-up and an elevated risk of failure.” For trailer tyres, the greatest risk is posed by ageing tyres where the rubber has started to oxidise and break down from exposure to heat

and moisture over the years. Older tyres are more likely to have hairline cracks in the rubber which could cause a tyre failure at speed on the highway. Before towing, motorists should check on the condition of all tyres on the vehicle and trailer, inspecting the sidewalls for any cracks or imperfections, ensuring there is still more than 1.5mm of tread left in all the principle grooves and that the tyres are inflated to the correct pressure. It is also recommended that motorists confirm the age of their tyres, which is identifiable using the serial number on the sidewall located by the term ‘DOT’. The last four numbers of the serial number indicate the tyre age where the first two of these numbers indicate the week of production and the final two numbers indicate the year. For example, ‘1216’ would indicate the tyre was produced in the 12th week of 2016. Bridgestone recommends that tyres between five and 10 years old are inspected by a tyre

professional regardless of their condition, and those aged 10 years or more are replaced. “There is an undeniable link between tyres and safety, and it’s alarming how complacent some motorists can be about checking their tyres,” Garth said. “This is even more important when towing because of the additional loads and forces associated with trailers. A simple tyre check could make a huge difference.” If you’re unsure about the condition of your tyres, Bridgestone says you can visit your local Bridgestone Select or Bridgestone Service Centre for assistance. To find your nearest store, head to www.bridgestonetyres.com.au

THE STRONG, SILENT TYPE Milford’s Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar Milford says its award-winning Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar offers a revolutionary solution which is setting the towing world alight. The product was awarded as the ‘Most Innovative New Aftermarket Product’ at the 2019 Australian Auto Aftermarket Innovation Awards. Milford says every aspect of the product has been thoroughly researched, designed and tested; making Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbars “the new gold standard in towing.” It states that one of the most noticeable features is the patented interlocking three-piece design. “Certified to the highest international standards and supported by in-house FEA and dynamic testing, Milford’s Ul1Mate Next Gen Towbars represent a breakthrough in delivering maximum strength and failsafe durability,” Milford Industries General Manager, Greg Spooner, said. “The interlocking plates are designed to independently sustain the maximum rating of the towbar while the aircraft grade locking fasteners provide extra peace of mind. The unique interface between the side mounting plates and cross bar ensures easy, correct and secure fitment first time, every time.” Significantly, this modular design allows the product to be warehoused and transported in 62

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custom designed cartons; maximising freight density, minimising the risk of damage and removing the need for specialised storage solutions throughout the supply chain. “All round, Milford’s Ult1mate Next Gen Towbar will be a real hit, delivering value to end users, retailers, wholesalers and product installers alike,” Greg said. “Importantly, end users will also appreciate the smooth, silent towing experience achieved through Milford’s patented HitchHush end cap. “When paired with the Ult1mate Next Gen Towbars’ precision fabricated receiver and the superbly engineered towing lug, HitchHush end cap’s revolutionary anti-rattle design will provide years of silent operation; free of those annoying noise and vibration issues.” The entire assembly is stylishly finished in ArmorTex – Milford’s new five stage Anti-Mar protective coating. “The multi-layered treatment consists of a hightech surface pre-treatment, conversion coating and an ecofriendly anti-corrosion seal. This finish is not only stylish, but also out-performs standard powder coat finishes in abrasion and mar resistance testing,” Greg said. Every Milford Ult1mate Next Gen Towbar

application is accompanied with detailed, part specific fitment videos that you can stream directly to any smart device by scanning a QR code contained within the carton. “Milford’s Ult1Mate Next Gen Towbar is not only the strongest, most innovative and silent towbar on the market, it is also the easiest to fit,” Greg said. For more information, visit www.milford.one or call 1800 MILFORD.

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

STR8-LIGN CARAVAN AND TRAILER WHEEL ALIGNER Optimal wheel alignment is crucial for any tow vehicle and trailer Str8-lign says following the success of the awardwinning ‘portable’ Str8-lign Passenger Wheel Alignment System and Qwerty Tyre Solutions’ more recent Commercial and Trucking Wheel Alignment System, demand grew for a unique standalone caravan and trailer wheel alignment tool, capable of dealing with both independent and fixed axle configurations. It says the development of the Str8-lign Caravan and Trailer wheel aligner was a logical progression and says now the first users in Australia are already enjoying the benefits. Str8-lign says the goal with this product, as with its passenger and commercial systems, was to develop a unique alignment system from the ground up offering accuracy, versatility and cost-effectiveness while maintaining its core innovation strategy of mobility. “By benefiting from our already successful and awarded systems on the market, we were able to maintain a high level of accuracy and ease of use, while keeping the overall costs within acceptable levels,” Str8-lign Australia Managing Director, Deon De Villiers, said. With accurate pinpointing of both solid axle and independent suspension setups; Str8-lign says its

caravan and trailer wheel aligner enables users to diagnose and correctly adjust the thrust-angle, toe-angle and camber settings in mere minutes, whether it be roadside or in a workshop. It says it is common knowledge that optimal wheel alignment is crucial for any tow vehicle – but for complete towing safety and comfort, it says one should apply the same level of detail to the trailer too. “Everything has to be right, to enable a caravan, camper-trailer or loading trailer to be stable and handle correctly on the road. Just one essential

item set wrong or neglected can cause serious, even lethal, problems,” Deon said. “It is also essential for all caravans and trailers – whether they have an independent suspension or a non-independent (solid-axle) setup – to have correct alignment; increasing road-safety, tyrelongevity and the overall driving experience. “At a fraction of the cost, with hundreds of systems deployed globally, Str8-lign is proven to be your go-to wheel alignment solution for workshop, and field applications!” For more information, visit www.str8-lign.com

TOWING SOLUTIONS FROM ARB ARB offers a range of towing accessories Regardless of whether you are towing a well-loved caravan, a new camper trailer or a trailer full of work tools, a good quality tow bar gives you the freedom and flexibility to take your life out on the road. ARB says it stocks a range of tow bars and accessories, including the Summit Rear Step Tow Bar. More than just a tow bar, ARB says its Summit Rear Step Tow Bar offers an unparalleled combination of rear vehicle protection and towing capacities, combining class leading design, proven ARB engineering and a no compromise approach to protection and performance. Built around a tubular steel subframe finished in a textured black powder coat, the Summit rear bar includes an integrated tow hitch, provisions for an ARB air compressor and trailer camera wiring, a 50amp Anderson plug and trailer plug wiring. Also featured are four easily accessible ARB Jack and Hi-Lift jack points, ensuring the ARB 64

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Summit Rear Step Tow Bar is ready for the most demanding off-road use. Also available from ARB are the following: • Summit Raw Rear Step Tow Bar: inspired by the Summit Rear Step Tow Bar, the ‘stripped back’ Summit Raw is engineered to tow 3.5T and has provisions for trailer plug wiring, a compressor outlet, trailer camera wiring, parking sensors and a 50amp Anderson plug. • ARB Rear Step Tow Bar: ARB’s Rear Step Tow Bars for utility vehicles are a towing system that ARB says provide a massive amount of protection for vulnerable rear panels. Using an extremely strong, vehicle specific mounting system, the rear step tow bar will withstand immense off-road punishment, whilst allowing for improved access to the tub and roof of the vehicle. • X-Bar by Hayman Reese: a rugged, ‘go anywhere’ tow bar engineered for off-road driving. The purpose designed and rated rear of vehicle recovery system encompassed

in a fully ADR compliant tow bar offers an increased departure angle, improved clearance and three rated recovery points as well as integrated bash plates and accessory plug mounts. • A wide array of towing accessories, including: Hayman Reese Weight Distribution Systems, The Drop Hitch, REDARC Tow-Pro Elite V3, REDARC Electric Trailer Brake Controllers, REDARC Tow-Pro Wiring Kits, REDARC TowPro Elite Switch Inserts, Clearview Mirrors, Tow balls and more. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

WILL ADDING AN ECB BULLBAR VOID YOUR NEW CAR WARRANTY? ECB is often asked this question and says the simple answer is: no East Coast Bullbars explains that fitting a Bullbar or Nudge Bar to your brand-new vehicle will not affect the manufacturer’s new car warranty as long as the products are fit for purpose, ADR compliant, and installed as per the manufacturer’s instructions. ECB advises that the vehicle manufacturer cannot void a warranty if you choose to fit an aftermarket Bullbar or other accessory under Australian Consumer Laws, unless it can be proven that the fitted accessory has caused the failure of the vehicle. Further, it states that adding any Frontal Protection will not change the ANCAP rating of your vehicle and if a car dealership states that adding a bullbar or other accessory will void your warranty, you should get that in writing. Your New Vehicle Warranty covers any potential

manufacturing faults that may happen during the determined period. If you have something fitted to your new vehicle that somehow interferes with its safety or performance and its proven to cause the vehicle fault, this is a different matter. ECB says this is why it is important that companies like ECB design and engineer high quality Australian Made products that have been tested for Australia’s harsh conditions. Historically, it has been reported some salesmen at dealerships have often mentioned that fitting any aftermarket product; be it a Bullbar, Nudge Bar, Roof Racks, Side Steps, or other accessories will void your new car warranty and try to convince you to only buy the OEM option. This practice is nothing new and something organisations like the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA) has been fighting against. Fitting a Bullbar to the front of a vehicle will add additional protection to the vehicle and its occupants in the event of an animal strike or collision.

ANCAP Ratings The other question which is more common with fleet vehicles is, will fitting a Bullbar or Nudge bar affect the ANCAP rating? And again, the answer is no, says ECB. ANCAP’s scope of work is to

complete all testing on what is commonly referred to as an OEM vehicle, as it comes from the factory. This testing is performed in a controlled environment and under strict guidelines and then each vehicle is rated accordingly. Aftermarket modifications can neither reduce nor increase an ANCAP safety rating.

Australian Made? ECB says some dealerships will not tell you the origin of their OEM accessories. The reason is most of the vehicle branded Bullbars are imported from China or Thailand and simply not engineered for Australia’s harsh road conditions and wildlife. It says all ECB Frontal Protection products are proudly designed and made in Australia, and will never detract from the safety features of your vehicle. Further, ECB notes that buying Australian made supports our local economy and keeps Australians employed. ECB is a proud member of the AAAA and the 4WD Industry Council. For more information, visit www.ecb.com.au

CAN ELECTRIC VEHICLES TOW? Although they are not known for it, EVs are very capable of towing…with the right information before you get started EVUp explains that the increased torque offered by electric vehicles actually makes them perfect for towing, but there’s often not enough information supplied upon purchase for drivers to confidently estimate their towing range. When selling a vehicle in Australia, OEMs are required to publish official range estimates as well as gross vehicle weight limitations to ensure drivers do not overload their vehicle beyond capacity. However, given the comparatively small number of EVs sold compared to their petrol counterparts, many OEMs simply do not take the time to rate their electric models for towing. This does not mean they are not fit for the job though. As with any kind of towing, your range will be reduced depending on the size of your load, and electric vehicles are no exception. EV early adopter experience has shown that a moderate load – one that is comfortably below

the maximum rated capacity of an EV’s petrol equivalent – will reduce the range of a vehicle by around 30 percent. For your average EV this means you still can expect to be able to drive 280km; which is enough range for most weekend getaways. In addition, many tourism destinations, like caravan parks, have three phase power which is perfect for efficiently recharging your battery pack. The main thing currently holding back EVs from being ideal vehicles for towing is the selection of models available; the real issue is not that EVs can’t tow, it’s that the EVs on the market today aren’t designed for pulling around heavy loads. The Nissan Leaf can certainly be equipped to tow smaller loads (as pictured) but even if it were a petrol-powered car you would not see people hitching their caravan around on this little hatchback. To help EV drivers take advantage of their towing potential, EVUp’s partner company EVolution has

reportedly developed a locally manufactured tow hitch that fits a range of electric vehicles. Though there are some decent options for towing on the market including the Hyundai Kona, Tesla Model X and Mitsubishi Outlander PHEV, EVUp says the arrival of electric pickups like the Cybertruck and Rivian R1T will be the game changer needed for EV enthusiasts who want to pull big loads around EVUp is building a network of EV charging infrastructure across Australia. If you have been thinking about how to prepare for the future of transport, EVUp invites you to give its team a call to find out more about Australian-made electric vehicle charging products. For more information, visit www.evup.com.au or contact Jack Shaddock on jack@evup.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

NEW BULLBAR FOR WHAT’S YOUR LOAD? Ironman 4x4 has developed a Load Calculator THE MR TRITON to estimate the additional load applied to a From Irvin Bullbars

vehicle

With the increased sales of the new Mitsubishi MR Triton, the team at Irvin Bullbars says it has worked hard to design and build a bullbar that complies with ADRs while also incorporating the driver assist technology.

When first kitting out a vehicle for work or play, many drivers do not consider the additional load applied.

Irvin Bullbar says this new bullbar for the MR Triton has been “designed and built in the traditional Irvin Bullbar way, with strength and practicality in mind.” The bar will reportedly fit a “decent” set of spotlights and offers full frontal protection. Four grades of aluminium are used in the construction of this new style Irvin Bullbar, each being specifically selected for maximum strength and functionality as well as maximising corrosion resistance.

Any heavy accessories or towing loads added to the vehicle change the handling and overall safety when driving. Couple that with uneven surfaces and off-road conditions, and drivers may find the original equipment suspension can no longer take the strain. Upgrading the vehicle’s suspension when carrying load can be the difference between a comfortable enjoyable ride or a harrowing experience. But knowing which suspension kit suits the vehicle requires knowing how much load has been applied to the vehicle, both temporary and constant. Ironman 4x4 has aimed to make this easier for the everyday driver with the Ironman 4x4 Load Calculator. The calculator uses a simple questionnaire to determine what the driver has added to the vehicle, including the weight of the passengers. The questionnaire covers all forms of common vehicle accessories, down ball towing weights and how those loads break down as a percentage of weight applied to each axle. The result from the Load Calculator provides the driver with an estimated load for the front

Irvin Bullbars says that using its traditional design and styling, this bullbar complements the Triton’s advanced personality and achieves a fully integrated appearance with clean lines and plenty of airflow. The 7mm thick continuous section of extruded channel serves as the platform to build the bar on and provides maximum strength. With the new and exclusive boxed section uprights provide maximum protection and Irvin Bullbars says that as with all of its bullbars, the tubing size is 48mm x 4.5mm wall thickness which locks the bar together and makes for a stronger, more resilient bar. Further, a heavy-duty steel mounting system contributes to the overall strength and airbag compliance. The new bulbar for the MR Triton from Irvin Bullbars is available in a high sheen polished alloy or a hard-wearing baked enamel. For more information, visit www.irvinbullbars.com.au or call 08 9274 2511. 66

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and rear axles of the vehicle and suggests an appropriate spring selection to enhance the performance of the vehicle. Ironman 4x4 recognises that each vehicle requirement is different and the vehicle’s springs must be matched to the load for optimum ride height and body control. This serves as the first step in finding the right suspension kit for the driver. Ironman 4x4 says it offers a range of springs and suspension kits to match the additional loads applied, whether they are constant or temporary. “Ironman 4x4’s suspension kits have continued to evolve over the 65 years of suspension experience,” Ironman 4x4 Suspension Director, Kristian Ristell, said. “We know that there isn’t one solution to fit all driving styles and conditions, so we have designed our suspension range to be tailored to the individual.” The wide range of kits and components are available across the country at an Ironman 4x4 distributor. For more information, visit www.ironman4x4.com

FOR NISSAN PATROL Kaymar has released its rear step towbar for the Nissan Patrol Y62 Series 5 Having produced bars for all previous Nissan Y62 models, Kaymar says with this new release it has paid particular attention to retaining all of the OE safety features for the Nissan Patrol Y62 Series 5. Kaymar says that as is standard with most of its rear bars, the tested and rated towbar is built into the rear bar, offering greater exit clearance for off-roaders. The bar is manufactured at Kaymar’s factory in Lilydale Victoria. It caters for the reverse sensors and features a specifically designed housing and plastic moulding which allows the blind spot warning system to function normally.

The bar can have one or two spare wheel carriers fitted, or one carrier and one double jerry can holder. The reverse camera is also re-located, either onto the carrier or jerry can holder. All Kaymar bars are zinc plated and then powder coated satin black. Optional colour coding is also available. Australian made and Australian owned, Kaymar says it is the perfect choice for all your rear end accessory requirements. For more information, visit www.kaymar.com.au

TOWING & FRONTAL PROTECTION

IS YOUR CUSTOMER’S CARAVAN PREPARED? In this article, Bendix reminds the trade of five must-do mechanical tips to prepare customers’ caravans The van or camper trailer is in top shape but what about the towing vehicle? Brake expert Bendix offers these top tips for preparing for holiday towing. A four-wheel drive and caravan or camper trailer can literally take you almost anywhere across Australia in a great adventure for all the family. However, no matter how close or far away from home you plan to head, a little preparation to the towing vehicle will go a long way to keeping the trip safe and trouble free. So, here are five essential tips to recommend to your customers to ensure they can enjoy a safe and enjoyable road trip while towing.

Replace all essential fluids Towing puts a lot of stress on the powertrain. An easy way to ensure the engine remains healthy is to replace all the major fluids and associated filters. The most obvious and critical fluid is the engine oil. Check the owner’s manual for the manufacturer’s recommended oil specifications and whether it requires a different viscosity or weight rating when towing heavy loads (or in hot weather if the client is heading north). When replacing the oil, also fit a new oil filter and new washer/O-ring on the sump plug. The transmission will also be doing a lot of heavy lifting when hauling, so make sure it has fresh fluid. Consider flushing the cooling system too. Replacing the air filter and fuel filter will help the engine run smoothly, and more efficiently. Bendix recommends having a spare one of each tucked away as this can prove handy, especially when heading into dusty areas. Finally, ensure the washer fluid bottle is full of clean water and/or screen cleaner.

Upgrade the brakes Brakes are a key safety consideration when towing. Hauling a caravan naturally means your tow vehicle’s brakes work a lot harder than normal. Before the customer heads-off, at the very least inspect and service the brake rotors, pads and calipers. While you are there replace the brake fluid with high quality, appropriately DOT rated replacement to prevent it from boiling in hard use, as brake fluid deteriorates over time by absorbing moisture from the atmosphere. This is particularly important when heading to the high country where long, steep descents are prevalent. Upgrading the brakes is an even better solution,

says Bendix, which recommends its Ultimate 4WD Brake Upgrade Kit. The Bendix Ultimate 4WD Brake Upgrade Kit is available for all popular modern dual-cab utes including the Toyota HiLux and Ford Ranger, as well as Holden Colorado, Mitsubishi Triton, Isuzu D-Max, Mazda BT-50 and Volkswagen Amarok. Kits are also available for the Toyota LandCruiser 70 and 200 Series, Toyota Landcruiser Prado and Nissan’ s Y61 Patrol. “The Ultimate 4WD Brake Upgrade Kit is a comprehensive package which includes all the hardware to significantly improve the braking performance of your vehicle,” Bendix Product Manager, Ian Campbell, said. “Our Ultimate Brake Rotors are vented and feature diamond-tipped slots that not only ensure consistent stopping power but are better at eliminating dirt build-up in off-road conditions. The high carbon material used in their construction, combined with the pillar ventilation technology, improves thermal conductivity for consistent performance too.” Bendix 4WD Brake Pads are in turn specifically designed for the slotted rotors on heavy-duty fourwheel drive vehicles, providing high-temperature stability and fade resistance while reducing brake dust and noise. When paired with Bendix Ultimate Braided Brake Hoses (included in the brake upgrade kit), the replacement Bendix pads provide a consistently firm pedal. This is thanks to the fact the Bendix braided hoses are more rigid and expand less under high pedal pressures, says Bendix. And, to keep the brakes in tip-top condition, the Bendix Ultimate 4WD Brake Upgrade comes with one litre of Bendix heavy duty brake fluid, a can of Bendix Cleanup and a tube of Ceramasil lubricant and a heavy-duty touring case.

Check the condition of the tyres The extra weight of a caravan (as well as people and all your holiday gear) puts extra strain on your tow vehicle’s tyres. This is particularly the case if you are heading off the beaten track on gravel roads. So, assessing the tread depth and condition of your tyres is a critical yet simple safety check. Obviously, make sure there is enough tread and that there are no slow leaks or objects stuck in the tread. Also take the time to look for any small cuts or abrasions in the sidewalls, on both the outer and inner sides of each tyre. This also applies to the spare tyre and the tyres on your van too.

Lastly, check the manufacturer’s recommended pressures on the tyre placard (usually located on the inside of the driver’s door sill) and inflate the tyres to the appropriate pressure for the load you are carrying. If heading off road (onto soft sand or muddy terrain, for example) lower tyre pressures will play a critical role in providing traction and preventing punctures. Having a quality tyre gauge and portable compressor (to re-inflate them when back on tarmac) are therefore must-have four-wheel drive accessories.

Check and adjust the headlights Driving through the outback is notoriously dangerous at dusk, dawn and during the night – and even more so if you cannot see properly. Bendix suggests at the very least that you and your customer walk around the car and van together and make sure headlights and high beams, indicators and brake lights are all working correctly. Most modern cars will be fitted with self-levelling headlights that adjust the angle of the beam according to the rake of the car (which can be pitched with the nose a little higher in the air when towing). If not, you can manually adjust the angle of the headlight beam. Having the headlights adjusted properly will ensure the customer has the maximum light penetration for better vision at night, and also prevents other road users from being startled. Cleaning the lights also helps.

Replace the battery Finally, there is nothing worse than being stranded in the middle of nowhere by a flat battery. Bendix says the easiest way to prevent that occurring is simple: replace it. Car batteries are often overlooked in general maintenance, but they do have a finite life and begin to lose performance after time. This is particularly the case in more modern machines that draw a lot more on the electrical system to run the array of ancillaries and computer-controlled functions. Fitting a new battery will give the customer the kind of peace-of-mind they need to cross the country trouble free, says Bendix. For more information, visit www.bendix.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

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SUPASHOCK SUPATOURING SUSPENSION Suspension is a critical consideration when it comes to towing Supashock emphasises the importance of not overlooking the suspension on your tug, explaining that towing completely changes the dynamics of the vehicle. Often the trailer or caravan you are towing can be heavier than the tow vehicle itself. In that scenario, the trailer can have control over the vehicle, which in the event of trailer sway, wind gusts, tyre blowout or other unforeseen circumstances, can be catastrophic. Supashock says standard or poor-quality aftermarket suspension systems are built and designed to be the compromise between cost, reliability and comfort.

exceed the capabilities of the dampers, springs and suspension components. Overloading these components can lead to unresponsive handling, reduced braking ability, poor handling characteristics or uncontrollable trailer sway. When a vehicle’s weight is shifted to the rear, it will inherently ‘unload’ the front suspension – lifting the nose as the rear squats down. If a sudden braking situation were to occur the vehicle will have reduced braking capacity due to the rearward load bias. It is easy to imagine the danger of piloting a rig with double the mass, and a reduced braking capacity.

occupants for the events that cannot be saved by devices such as load distribution hitches or sway control systems. It says that by installing tuned, Supashock dampers you will be handing back control to the driver by increasing the tyre grip on all wheels in all scenarios.

When using your car off the black top or whilst towing, Supashock highly recommends you upgrade your suspension to suit your application.

By upgrading to Supashock’s rebuildable SupaTouring suspension system, Supashock says you are investing in safer towing and touring, in both on and off-road conditions.

Supashock explains that behind the brand is a team of true 4WD enthusiasts who understand the importance of incorporating characteristics for tourers and towers including comfort, control, safety, longevity, load carrying and performance.

It explains that just like Supashock’s racing customers upgrade their vehicles for racing feel and performance, its SupaTouring range is tailored to those who live the 4WD lifestyle.

It explains that utilising the performance orientated, heavy duty SupaTouring dampers enables you to create the most stable platform possible.

It states that with a highly successful background in motorsport, defence, autonomous and mining suspension, SupaTouring lift kits are built to tackle outback Australia.

Vehicles that tow with OE or poor-quality aftermarket suspension not suited to towing can

Further, it states that SupaTouring suspension lays the foundations to secure your vehicle and

For more information on the SupaTouring range, visit www.supashock.com/4x4

HITCH PINS, LOCKS AND ACCESSORIES From Mister Hitches All Mister Hitches hitch pins are made from S235JR/Q235B carbon steel. The Tensile strength is 375MPa and yield strength is 235MPa, which Mister Hitches explains is equivalent to a grade 4.6 bolt or dowel pin which has a ‘Single Shear strength’ of 50Kn (5,099kg) and a ‘Double shear strength’ of 100Kn (10,197kg). It states that when the pin is use in a tow bar hitch receiver situation, the “Double Shear” value applies.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

Mister Hitches says its team has put together what is considered as one of the best Hitch Pin programs on the Australian Market. The range consists of hitch locking and standard pins in both long and standard useable lengths, Anti-Rattle hitch pin locks, ‘Keyed Alike’ hitch pin locks, coupling padlocks, R-clips and more. All Mister Hitches locking hitch pins also boast Mister Hitches’ exclusive ‘Push to Lock’ security function which allows the user to lock the head onto the pin without the need of the key. The range includes: • MHPL2 locking hitch pin – dog bone style, 70mm useable length • MHARHP anti-rattle locking hitch pin – 70mm useable length • MHPL8 locking hitch pin – long “j” style, 95mm useable length • MHPL6 locking hitch pin - long style, double security electro-coat finish, 66/80/100mm useable lengths with r-clip push to lock function • MHPL2-2 locking hitch pin set of two “keyed alike” dog bone style – 70mm useable length

• MHPL5 locking hitch pin – dog bone style, 79mm useable length • MHPH4B “quick fit” hitch – pin style, 95mm useable length • MHP3 hitch pin – long style, 65/80mm useable lengths, 10,000kg double shear • MHTPCL treg pin and coupler pin lock – use with treg/trigg poly block pins and snap on couplings. gold zinc plated • MHRC-3 – three pack of comfort grip hitch pin “r” clips zinc plated with soft vinyl grip For more information, visit www.misterhitches.com.au

DIESEL

DON’T GET DUMPED Riding the wave of diesel fuel pre filters and oil catch cans Qld Diesel and Automotive Diagnostics explains diesel fuel pre filters and oil catch cans are intended to extend engine life.

Diesel fuel pre filters have made their way into everyday 4WD vehicles as a must have accessory. All modern diesel vehicles (and specifically Common Rail) have particularly good fuel filtration systems from the factory with warning lights to alert us when contamination or water ingress has occurred. However, the installation of a ‘pre fuel filter,’ while being a great first line of defence, is no reason to ignore the importance of changing the main (original) filter as per its recommended schedule. The original filter is of a higher micron rating and is the last stop for fuel before entering your high-pressure diesel injection system. Regular servicing and quality fuel are the key to fuel system longevity. Oil catch cans are another must have accessory in modern diesel vehicles. We are all aware of the high carbon (soot) the EGR systems deposit in air intake systems. Mixing that with oil residue from the engine breather system (crank case ventilation) is a recipe for disaster. While there are many types of oil catch cans available, they all gather quantities of oil and depending on their size and style of engine they are fitted to, can fill quite quickly. Qld Diesel and Automotive Diagnostics warns that if these units become overfull and the engine cannot vent crankcase pressure properly, at the very least you will incur oil seal leakages, probable turbo charger failure and in a worst case scenario, the engine could run away at uncontrolled revs due to it now running on engine oil from the overfull catch can. As such, it implores you to drain and service these items regularly. For more information, visit www.qdad.com.au 72

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PENRITE DIESEL ENGINE OILS Penrite produces a range of diesel engine oils For over 90 years, Penrite Oil says it has produced the highest quality lubricant formulations for use in the most demanding operating conditions. Penrite states it continues to innovate and provide the market with products that meet and exceed industry and manufacturer requirements. It produces a range of diesel engine oils to cover the majority of vehicles on the road, whether it be a 4WD, a passenger car, or a light commercial or heavy vehicle requirement. The Penrite diesel oil range covers classic to new vehicles including products with OEM approvals, products that meet major manufacturer specifications as well as products that are Industry Licensed. The Penrite range consists of: • HPR Diesel: this range is suitable for both current and older diesel engine vehicles, including motorcycles. The range features Full Zinc and Penrite’s advanced Extra 10 technology to provide a Double Layer of engine wear protection in all operating conditions. The range is predominantly suited to vehicles that do not have a Diesel Particulate Filter fitted. It is LPG compatible. • ENVIRO+: consisting of a range of oils that are designed for modern fuel-efficient low emission engines as used in late model 4WD/

SUV vehicles, including those vehicles fitted with a Diesel Particulate Filter. The range covers many manufacturer specifications including OEM approvals and Industry licensed products. • The Convoy range: specifically tailored for the Heavy Duty and Commercial sector and developed to provide unrivalled protection for all types of heavy-duty engines. The range has products applicable to both the latest and previous generations of heavy-duty diesel engines. It features both full synthetic and mineral based products including API Licensed and OEM Approved products. Penrite says that no matter what type of diesel vehicle you drive, it has “The Right Product for the Right Application.” Penrite recommends using the Penrite Product Selector on its web page or the Penrite Product Selector App available for download to your smartphone to find the product for you. For more information, visit www.penriteoil.com.au

ARE YOU A DIESEL SPECIALIST? You may be interested in the Association of Australasian Diesel Specialists (AADS) The Association of Australasian Diesel Specialists (AADS) was founded in 1974 with the intent of bringing together this specific industry to network and help each other for the benefit of the industry. The Association includes Australia, New Zealand and Papua New Guinea. AADS explains that each of the States have their own branch meetings a couple of times each year, with all coming together for the National Convention every twelve months. Last year’s convention – which like the state meetings also included technical training opportunities - was held on the Gold Coast in Queensland and AADS reports this was very successful. Plans were in place for the 2020 convention to be held in Hobart in Tasmania, however this

has now been postponed to June 2021. New Zealand also holds its own convention annually in September. Membership of AADS is divided into three main categories: 1. Service Member. 2. Manufacturer, Marketing and Distribution. 3. Affiliate Member. For more information, visit www.aads.com.au or contact AADS President, Merv Bryant, on 0429 498 439 or Vice President, Nichole Wilson, on 0458 593 707.

DIESEL

HPD EXPANDS CATCH CAN RANGE Three new products for popular SUVs have been added to HPD’s catch can catalogue Australian manufacturer High Performance Diesel (HPD) has released three new products in its extensive range of oil-air catch cans, to suit the 2.0-litre Volkswagen Tiguan, 2.2-litre Hyundai Santa Fe and 2.5-litre Mazda CX-5. The new models expand the HPD catch can lineup to 52, comprising 51 model-specific kits and a universal kit that can be fitted to any turbodiesel engine. The Tiguan, Santa Fe and CX-5 increase the number of compact SUVs with model-specific catch can kits developed by HPD. “The growing popularity of the small SUV sector is a fantastic opportunity for HPD to reach a new market,” HPD Founder, Dave Mitchell, said.

“For many owners of these vehicles, it is the first time they have owned a turbo-diesel vehicle. Often, they are unaware of some of the specific maintenance requirements of this type of engine, and some of the potential problems that can occur. HPD catch cans are cost-effective preventative maintenance for turbo-diesels of any size.” The HPD catch can protects turbo-diesel engines by precipitating oil vapour from the crankcase breather before it reaches the engine’s intake. This oil vapour would otherwise be carried throughout the intake, lining the intercooler and reducing its efficiency. Even more critically, if not caught in the catch can, the oil vapour from the breather combines with soot from combustion to form a sticky deposit that builds up to the point that it restricts the engine’s breathing, leading to a costly cleanup. Unlike many competing products, HPD says its catch can does not require expensive filter replacements and does not place back pressure on the engine’s crankcase breather system, which can lead to premature rear main seal failures – another expensive repair. Crucially, this means HPD catch cans do not require a vent to relieve pressure. Venting the breather to the atmosphere is not permitted under Australian Design Rules, meaning that the HPD catch can is legal and roadworthy in all states of Australia.

Made in Australia from 6061 billet aluminium, HPD says its catch can is robust and durable, with a dipstick for checking oil levels and a screw-on reservoir that is easy to remove to empty the collected oil. Like all HPD catch can kits, the Tiguan, Santa Fe and CX-5 kits come with everything needed for a factory-look installation. HPD explains that laser-cut stainless steel brackets, quality hoses, load-rated clamps, and all fasteners are included along with comprehensive instructions, making it a straightforward job for car owners with basic skills and tools. The Tiguan kit suits 2.0-litre models from 2016-present, the Santa Fe kit suits 2.2-litre models from 2012-present and the CX-5 kit suits 2.5-litre models from 2018 onward All are available to order online from www.hpdiesel.com.au or your nearest HPD distributor.

CASTROL EXPANDS RANGE WITH NEW EUROPEAN APPROVALS Suitable for use in the Volkswagen TD1 diesel engine amongst others With manufacturers doubling down on their efforts to evolve engine technology to meet strict emissions requirements, there has been a dramatic increase in new lubricant specifications intended for use with such highly engineered engine technology. With Volkswagen Group recently defining a handful of new approvals including VW 508 00, VW 509 00 and VW 511 00, Castrol says it is excited to announce the launch of two new premium Castrol EDGE Professional product variants to meet the demands of late-model Volkswagen Group vehicles requiring these specifications.

Castrol EDGE Professional LL IV FE 0W-20 EDGE Professional LL IV FE 0W-20 is a full synthetic engine oil carrying VW 508 00/ 509 00 approvals and has been developed by Castrol to exceed VW’s fuel economy specification. In fact, in the required test PV1451 to pass the

demanding VW specification VW 508 00/509 00, Castrol EDGE Professional LL IV FE 0W-20 reportedly delivered more than four percent fuel economy benefit when compared to the test’s reference oil. EDGE Professional LL IV FE 0W-20 is suitable for use in a range of Volkswagen Group vehicles, including 2.0 TFSI 140 kW and 3.0 TDI CR 160 kW engines.

Castrol EDGE 5W-40 M Castrol EDGE 5W-40 M meanwhile is a full synthetic engine oil carrying VW 511 00 and Porsche C40 approvals, making it suitable for several new high-performance models from VW, Audi and Porsche. This includes the emerging requirements of new Audi RS6, RS7 and RSQ8 models, as well as Porsche models fitted with GPF’s (Gasoline Particulate Filters). When it comes to European vehicles, Castrol says it knows a thing or two about unlocking true

engine performance. It says this is a key reason why Castrol plays an active role in developing products for Volkswagen Motorsport and Audi Sport vehicles, serving as an Official Partner of Volkswagen Motorsport and Audi Sport. Castrol states it is also serving to push boundaries as it leads the development of advanced e-fluids for the Volkswagen ID.R car and its electric motorsport program. To discover the full Castrol range, visit www.castrol.com.au or speak to Castrol’s Technical Helpline team on 1300 557 998. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

DIESEL

DIESEL HELP AUSTRALIA Taking the stress out of diesel diagnostics Everyday somewhere in Australia a petrol light vehicle technician finishes their day diagnosing a diesel and getting no closer to a successful outcome. Diesel Help Australia says this is becoming an all too common problem and it is no wonder, as most of these mechanics did not sign up for diesel. “We take the stress out of diesel diagnostics. We have done the homework for you and when it is something new that we haven’t come across (because no one knows everything), we provide additional services including a growing diesel technical bulletin library and products to assist you through the process with confidence,” Diesel Help Australia Founder and Trainer, Clinton Brett, said. “We’ve been providing diesel diagnostic training since 2013 and in addition to the in-class training, Diesel Help Australia provides over the phone technical support for automotive workshops throughout Australia and New Zealand. “There are three membership options to best suit your requirements and budget; and within hours of logging a job through the secure membership login, the member will receive a direct phone call from one of our qualified technicians.” Diesels have certainly become a popular passenger car in recent years and as a result, Clinton has been kept very busy. In fact, he has been so busy that he now requires the services of another experienced technician to help and assist with diesel diagnostics for Diesel Help Australia members; and so Daniel Armer of Precision Vehicle Diagnostics began working alongside Clinton at the start of 2020. With a combined experience of 40 years working with diesel engines between them, Dan’s extensive Electronic Fuel Injection (EFI) knowledge assists with Common Rail Diesel (CRD) diagnosing while Clinton’s experience as a diesel fuel injection specialist, particularly with early type diesels, has reportedly been the key to success in diagnosing the extensive range of different CRD systems in the marketplace.

“Understanding diesel combustion engine operating principles is the only sure way anyone can confidently work on any diesel vehicle,” Clinton said. “When I started witnessing CRD faults in the late 90s, I knew this was going to be the diesel system of the future for all mechanical backgrounds, especially those working on EFI. “It is not just the petrol mechanics who struggle; we get our fair share of old school qualified diesel mechanics who also find some diesels difficult to diagnose. “Our proven systematic approach sees us assist an average of six jobs per day on cars, 4WDs, trucks, tractors, earthmoving equipment, marine equipment and generators. “That’s a lot of diesel diagnosing between two technicians who are not actually physically working on the vehicles. We both understand the battles mechanics face and often have been a sounding board even when the technician was on the correct path to a successful diagnosis.”

Online training options Clinton explains that since the start of COVID-19, his travel delivering in-class training has been reduced to almost nothing. “This has been a blessing in disguise as I now have more time to concentrate on finalising the edits for our latest online training release,” Clinton said. “The Ultimate Common Rail Diesel Diagnostic course (UCRD) has been our long running live training event since 2013 and will be available online by the time this article goes to print. “The pre-recorded 4.5-hour online version of UCRD provides a detailed explanation of how each system works on the modern diesel engine and covers the vital areas the technician needs to concentrate on when diagnosing, with and without fault codes. “Within the course there are several on-vehicle techniques demonstrating proven testing methods with and without a scan tool, whilst utilising inexpensive equipment.

“An added feature of the training is the integrated learning management system (LMS) which enables your staff to complete a quiz online at the end of each part of the course, of which there are nine in total. “The course also includes a downloadable booklet and certificate for each successful completion of the training – a useful tool for staff performance evaluation. “The UCRD is the second online instalment available for both members and non-members to purchase. Our members have the option to purchase access all year round for every workshop technician to complete or a one-time access valid for 12 months.”

Live webinars With no clear outlook and the ever changing COVID-19 regulations throughout the world, Diesel Help Australia says that looking to book any live in-class training for the remainder of 2020 is a risk it is not willing to take. “We have just completed a couple of pilot test runs of our live webinar and I am very happy with what we are able to provide,” Clinton said. “We will be running some of the Common Diesel Faults and Scan Tools Training (CDFST) in a live Google Meet webinar throughout the remainder of 2020. “Some of these webinars are being delivered as a replacement for courses cancelled earlier this year due to COVID-19. “We have also been providing private training sessions as a replacement for the sold-out events, so as to reduce the contact in the community. “Everyone has a unique style of learning, so you have the ability to come up with your own diagnostic strategies and we will provide you with an understanding of what you’re diagnosing and why.” For more information, visit www.dieselhelp.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

DIESEL

INJECTRONICS TALKS DIESEL INJECTION The fuel injection system is at the heart of any diesel engine A significant component of the system is the engine’s injectors and the computers that run them. With increased demand on fuel efficiency and emissions regulations, much research has gone into the design of not only the injectors themselves but the Engine Control Units that operate them. Injectronics says its team of dedicated technicians has identified a common issue with these systems, stating that a fuel injector can fail for a variety of reasons, including fuel contamination, faulty wiring or age. When an injector fails, it can often lead to other issues if not fixed quickly and can, as a result, damage the ECM.

N14 Celect

1997 Cummins introduced the N14 ‘Celect Plus,’ which primarily features a more sophisticated ECM and injection management system. Injectronics says it has seen many of these units fail due to many and various causes, the most common being due to liquid/oil contamination. It explains this is usually caused by a leaking valve cover where the injector wires pass through. Engine oil runs down the wiring loom into the ECM connector and creates an electrical short to various components and this, in turn, causes multiple faults to be present. Other causes may be related to capacitor damage due to the age of these ECMs, internal shorts due to brittle wiring looms, and large amounts of corrosion.

Caterpillar 3126

Injectronics explains that the N14 Celect relies on electronically controlled, camshaft driven unit injectors. In the system, the camshaft provides final fuel pressure in each individual fuel injector, but the injectors utilise electronic solenoids that are actuated by the ECM. The result is greater timing, pulse width and pressure control. For

The Caterpillar (CAT) 3126 engines produced by Cat from the mid-90s were used in a variety of different applications. The engine runs a 70 pin Engine Control Unit (ECU). Used by CAT in industrial equipment like wheel loaders/dozers/ graders/excavators and compactors, this engine was also picked up by companies like Freightliner, Ford and Western Star in the US. This engine can also be found in the ‘Bushmaster’ vehicle built for the Australian Army, Freightliner and Kenworth in Australia. With the introduction of the 3126B engine in

1998, we saw the introduction of Hydraulic Electronic Unit Injector system (HEUI), a fully electronically controlled injector system. Injectronics says it has come across a common issue with the ECU that runs this system, the fault being the vehicle will not start or is hard to start with no check engine light on the dash.

Temic ML-PLD The Temic ML-PLD control unit is fitted to a large number of heavy-duty vehicles including Mercedes Benz Actros, Atego and Vario. Injectronics says it has been presented with many of these units having a number of common issues including: • No power to injectors • Running rough • Dropping cylinders when warm • No start • One injector bank not functioning • Fault code 4906 – “The feedback of the second-row plunger pump is short on the weight.” Injectronics invites you to contact its team via www.injectronics.com.au or 1300 30 80 60 for assistance if you have any problems with heavy duty electronic or mechatronic modules.

ESSENTIAL DIESEL TREATMENTS Certified space technology for your diesel engine Over 21 years ago, NASA faced a very serious situation and closure when the traction bearings in the Shuttle Crawler broke down due to carrying the heaviest object in the world out to the launching pad. Soon after, Burg Design explains that the engineers and industrial chemists at NASA and the X-1R Corporation got together to see if they could develop a unique lubricating grease that could help resolve this major problem. This is what they did and the rest is history; and soon after NASA and X-1R Corporation joined forces in the development of what Burg Design calls “the most technological and proven range of lubricants in the world” which are reportedly now used daily in all parts of the space program. The program isn’t just useful when it comes to space exploration, with major vehicle makers such as Honda, Toyota, Nissan, Hyundai and Proton said to be using X-1R additives in engines and transmissions. 76

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

Essential diesel treatments All diesel engines require special consideration when it comes to keeping them running at peak performance and so the team at NASA and X1R have put together a unique three-part maintenance package consisting of the X1R Engine Oil Treatment plus the X1R Diesel System Treatment plus the X1R Diesel System Cleaner with Power Booster product. Burg Design says the results are astounding, offering increased engine life and much smoother running overall. It says the benefits and advantages of each of these products are as follows: • X1R Engine Treatment: noticeably improves overall performance; increases engine life by reducing friction up to 95 percent thus almost eliminating cold starts; reduces engine noise; reduces fuel consumption and increases horsepower. • X1R Diesel System Treatment: dramatically improves the quality of diesel fuel and greatly

extends its life in storage by eliminating bacteria thus giving you a much smoother and quieter running engine with reduced smoke and smell. • X1R Diesel System Cleaner: effectively removes all carbon deposits; cleans, conditions and lubricates injectors; restores lost power; dramatically reduces emissions; reduces fuel consumption; and stops engine run-on. X-1R is a Certified Space Technology and is an inductee in the NASA Space Technology Hall of Fame. The X-1R range is available to purchase online at www.burgdesign.com.au and www.autoelec.com.au For more information, contact sales@burgdesign.com.au

DIESEL

OVERCOME DIESEL FUEL CONTAMINATION

Responsive Engineering says its Diesel Water Watch aftermarket separator trap can help Diesel fuel contamination is one of the more expensive issues of Common Rail Diesel vehicles in Australia and often people think that means dirty fuel – but that is not the case, says Responsive Engineering. Instead, it says water in diesel fuel is the main cause of contaminated fuel damage. Responsive Engineering explains that advanced factory fitted fuel filters are capable of removing particles in the fuel that could cause damage, but Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) fuel filters are a sedimentation or coalescent type that merge free water into larger droplets, which then drops out of the fuel into a water trap at the bottom of the filter. It says these filters are often overwhelmed and are unable to trap water at the high flow rates experienced in a CRD system (ie 60 Litres/hr for a typical three litre diesel). Water of course should not be present in diesel fuel. However, it is difficult for fuel outlets in

Australia to ensure the diesel fuel is free of water. When a tanker delivers a fuel load to the service station, water at the bottom of the storage tank gets stirred up, mixing with the diesel fuel and allowing water to be pumped into your fuel tanksometimes many litres of water. So why is water in diesel such an issue? Water in your high pressure and high temperature diesel will very quickly rust all metal components within the fuel system. Rust particles are very abrasive and destroy the common rail, injector nozzles and fuel pump; also diesel systems circulate fuel which returns to the tank. Rust can therefore return to the incoming fuel. Responsive Engineering says you should not fall for the trap of installing additional filters to your diesel fuel system as this may place excessive restriction on the pump suction, with a resultant effect on performance and due to the high fuel flow rate, does not catch all the water. It says its Diesel Water Watch is a precision aftermarket separator trap that does not rely on any filter medium to remove water and particles from the diesel fuel; instead using a diffuser to separate and remove any water and particles heavier than diesel. The electronic sensor in the Diesel Water Watch is able to detect water whether it is present as free water, dispersed or emulsified water by measuring the electrical resistance within the fuel.

Water Watch is an Australian invention, manufactured in Australia and it can detect very small quantities of water present in the fuel flow before it enters the OEM filter. Responsive Engineering explains that Water Watch alerts the driver of water present in the vehicle’s fuel by a recurring beep and a warning LED light. It is then an easy step to pull over, turn the engine off, drain the water, restart the engine and continue driving. It states Water Watch is not a filter and therefore won’t restrict fuel flow or pressure. For more information, visit www.responsiveengineering.com.au

YOUR DIESEL NEEDS COVERED Unique Auto Parts has an array of diesel parts and additives Unique Auto Parts says it has been servicing cars with the best quality products since 1995. The company started as a workshop before later transitioning into supplying car parts. Today, Unique Auto Parts says its team uses its knowledge of running a workshop to provide the best experience, range, part quality and customer service to every workshop it encounters. A large part of Unique Auto Parts’ range is related to servicing the wide variants of diesel vehicles on the road today. Unique Auto Parts explains that it stocks all of the parts that are important in the running and maintenance of a diesel vehicle, from additives, injector fuel lines, diesel fuel filters and air filters to glow plugs with relays and turbos. With most modern diesel cars fitted with a turbo to help with economy and with performance, Unique Auto Parts also stocks all types of turbos for different makes and models which it says are imported from only the most reputable overseas brands.

Another large factor in diesel vehicles is the additional additives that are used to help clean the engine and keep it running at its pinnacle. Some of the additives Unique Auto Parts provides are as follows: • Carlube Adblue – this diesel exhaust fluid is used with selected catalytic reduction systems to reduce emissions of Nitrogen Oxides. This product is not only more environmentally friendly due to the reduction in NOx pollution, it also lowers particulate emissions and provides better fuel economy. • Complete fuel system cleaner (for diesel engines) – suitable for all diesel engines, this special formula is an easy one step application designed to restore engine power by reducing deposits, it also contains a cetane improver to promote quieter operations and easier cold starting. • Diesel particulate filter cleaner – specifically developed to clear and regenerate dirty diesel particulate filters to help prevent blockages.

Unique Auto Parts is so confident with the Carlube products it uses them in its own fleet of delivery vehicles in order to keep them running smoothly and be able to provide its customers with a quick and efficient delivery service. Prompt delivery is available from all five great locations around Melbourne, Brisbane’s South East and Perth. If you are outside these delivery areas, Unique Auto Parts says there is no need to worry as it ships freight Australia wide on a daily basis using the most reliable couriers. For more information, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

TRADE TALK

STAYING FLUID DRIVES SUCCESS A mixture of dedication, application, and a willingness to accept all challenges have seen Castrol’s General Manager for Australia and New Zealand, Tanya Ghosn, rise to the top in her field Having started her tenure with BP some 30 years ago, Tanya has successfully navigated numerous challenges and grabbed hold of all opportunities that have presented themselves over the course of her journey. Castrol, which was purchased by the BP Group in 2000, was originally ‘born’ on the 1st of July 1919 in Martin Place in Sydney, when ex-digger Cyril Westcott broke ground on the first of the now two Castrol manufacturing facilities in the country. “Not many people know, but the brand Castrol originated after researchers added castor oil to their lubricant formulations,” explained Tanya. “A century later, the Castrol brand has supported the efforts and achievements of pioneers who set the benchmark on land, air, sea, and space. We have been here a long time, and I like to think we know what we’re doing.” Tanya has undoubtedly come a long way from her own humble beginnings growing up on a dairy farm in Southwest Victoria, about two and a half hours out of Melbourne. “It was great growing up on the land, but I yearned for the bright lights of the big city and headed to Melbourne to start my career,” said Tanya. “My first job was what they called at the time a clerical trainee. I used to spend three days in the company and two days at TAFE. “It was an interesting start, but I knew I wanted

more, so I went back to study, completed a degree, and established a career from there.” Tanya did not make a conscious decision to join the oil and gas industry, but after more than three decades in this exciting and innovative industry sector, she knows it was the right call. “Like most people, I just started out looking for a job, and by chance, I ended up at Castrol,” Tanya explained. “I didn’t set out to work in this industry, but after a few short months, I soon realised that I really enjoyed working with the customers both inside and outside of the organisation.” Drawn to the cut and thrust of the sales environment, Tanya quickly found herself a position within the highly respected Castrol Sales Team. “I have a great passion for understanding what motivates people and how organisations make money, so sales played to my strengths,” said Tanya. “I learnt so much in my sales roles, and that experience has been the anchor to which I’ve tethered my career.” Over the course of her career, Tanya’s roles became more extensive. Still, she enjoyed the new challenges that each new position presented, until she ultimately secured the much-coveted title of General Manager for Australia and New Zealand. Of course, there have been several critical turning points on Tanya’s journey, but perhaps the most

Tanya Ghosn important was when she landed one of the industry’s largest parcels of business - a contract that had been on BP’s radar for many years. “I’ve always been willing to take calculated risks, and when the opportunity came to prepare a tender response for a huge piece of work that we’d been chasing, without success for more than a decade, I put my hand up and knuckled down,” Tanya explained. “When you put your mind to something, no matter how big the goal, anything is possible. It was a big win for the organisation and an enormous achievement for me personally as it provided the springboard from which to drive my career forward at a faster rate.” Following that milestone, one of the most exciting periods of her career soon followed. “At the core, I relish the opportunity to uncover the challenges our customers face. I pride myself on designing innovative, practical, and costeffective solutions that Castrol can implement to help them overcome these challenges,” she said. Today, Tanya manages more than 300 dedicated and talented employees spanning Australia and New Zealand. However, she is still acutely aware that it is the personal touches that make a massive difference in breeding a positive culture within an organisation. “As the leader of a large group of people, one can

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

TRADE TALK

never underestimate the value of just talking to people,” Tanya said. “Understanding their stories and the way they see the company is critical to building a highperforming team that won’t buckle under pressure. “It’s a great responsibility and privilege to lead an organisation with such a successful history like Castrol, and it’s one I don’t take lightly. “We spend so much time together, and while we’ve got a lot of serious stuff we need to deal with, we have to enjoy it, and we have to have a degree of camaraderie within the team.

“It’s my job to make sure our employees feel like they are a member of a team that focuses on success and one that also takes the time out to celebrate the personal triumphs along the way. “To build a career in the automotive aftermarket, one of the first things you need is a healthy dose of curiosity. It is a very complex industry. You need to ask questions, then sit back and listen.” When quizzed on Castrol’s competitive advantage, Tanya identified its R&D, manufacturing capabilities and people as the key competencies that help keep Castrol at the forefront. “We’re pretty unique, and our two local

manufacturing facilities allow us to offer security and continuality of supply to customers,” Tanya explained. “These two facilities provide us with the ability to be flexible and respond to market needs with a quality that everyone expects from Castrol.” Having significantly invested in designing and opening its state-of-the-art laboratory at Spotswood in 2015, Tanya says there is no doubt that Castrol is here for the long haul. Beyond its local assets, Castrol also has access to a global network of manufacturing plants as BP owns them. With an Australian based tech support team and a global lubes technology team, Castrol is constantly researching and developing formulations to bring new products to market. Of course, keeping a finger on the pulse of the automotive aftermarket is critical to Castrol’s continued success, and for that, the AAAA plays a significant role. “We have a long history of working with others, creating partnerships, staying connected, and this is not only relevant for the past but also in support of the future, which is why we are a member of the AAAA,” Tanya said. “It’s our ability to stay connected with the industry and the experts, and also hopefully offering our support and expertise back into the industry as well. “I think it works for both of us,” she added. To find out more about Castrol, visit www.castrol.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

MILESTONES

BFGOODRICH CELEBRATES 150 YEARS In 2020, BFGoodrich celebrates a milestone 150th year of tyre manufacturing Ever since its humble beginnings in 1870, when Dr Benjamin Franklin Goodrich founded the first tyre factory in Ohio (North America), BFGoodrich says performance has been an integral part of the brand. This focus led Charles Cross Goodrich, son of Benjamin, to establish the very first tyre research centre in the United States. The first car to make history and cross the North American continent in 1903 was the Winton touring car, and it accomplished this running on BFGoodrich tyres. BFGoodrich tyres were also shod on the famous Spirit of St Louis, a custom-built single engine, single-seat monoplane flown by Charles Lindbergh from Long Island, New York to Paris, France in 1927. It was the first nonstop transatlantic flight in history. BFGoodrich explains it also created the world’s first all-terrain tyre, taking vehicles beyond the roads to create new journeys and enabling enthusiasts to find a new level of freedom.

Today, BFGoodrich says its products “are desired by the ultimate adventure seekers and remain the benchmark for other brands to aspire to in off road tyres.” The brand has also achieved victory in some of the biggest races across the globe, from success at the Indianapolis 500, 24 Hours of Le Mans, Baja and Dakar Rally to the famous FINKE Desert Race right here in Australia. After breaking records on land and in the air, BFGoodrich also mastered another extreme environment – space. BFGoodrich explains that NASA relied on BFGoodrich when the Columbia Space Shuttle launched in 1981. This first ever, re-usable space shuttle spent two days in space, orbiting the earth a total of 36 times, and after a successful maiden voyage, BFGoodrich tyres were there for the touchdown. In its 150 years of manufacturing, BFGoodrich says it has cemented its reputation as a brand through extreme capability and proven performance to become a brand built for driving enthusiasts, by driving enthusiasts.

As a manufacturer BFGoodrich reports it is constantly at the heart of the action, continuously learning in an effort to bring the best developments to consumers, no matter what or where they drive. With strong values like this, it says there are no limits to the achievements still to come. The BFGoodrich product range includes its wellknown Off-Road Tyres (KO2, KM2, KM3 mud terrain), On Road Tyres (Advantage T/A Range, g-Force Sport Comp2 and Radial T/A), Racing Tyres (Baja T/A K Range) and Truck Tyres (Route Control, Heavy Truck). For more information and to join in on the 150-year celebrations, visit www.bfgoodrich.com.au/auto/150-years

NGK CELEBRATES 40 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE While 2020 has been a challenging year for many, it marks an important milestone for NGK Spark Plug Australia This year NGK Spark Plug Australia celebrates 40 successful years in Australia. During this time, the company says it has developed an enviable reputation for driving innovation, delivering quality products on-time, and providing a level of customer support that is often benchmarked but rarely equalled. “We are committed to distributing automotive intelligence quickly and efficiently. Our industryleading application guides provide real-time access to the latest product data, including specification, fitment and trouble-shooting solutions,” NGK Spark Plug Australia Managing Director, Mr Kakeru Morii, said. NGK is considered a key partner to Trade, Reseller and Distribution businesses within the Australian aftermarket industry, and it is quick to recognise that these relationships are the cornerstone of its successful aftermarket business. “As a leader in product design and manufacturing, our team strives to bring the best technology to market. In addition to an extensive catalogue of spark and glow plugs, NGK also offers a full range of ignition coils and OE-quality sensors,” Mr Morii said. For more than 80 years, NGK has been driving 80

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performance with the latest in spark plug and oxygen sensor technology. “Our team members are fuelled by an unrivalled passion for their industry and a commitment to innovation,” Mr Morii said. “We partner with OEMs to develop the latest innovations, making NGK/NTK the supplier of choice for many manufacturers. With worldclass quality and engineering, our expertise goes beyond the aftermarket to drive the automotive industry forward.” In 2003, NGK Australia started distributing KYB Shock Absorbers and over the last 17 years has grown the range extensively, which it says has cemented its position as “the market leader in the increasingly competitive Shock Absorber product category.” In Australia, KYB is focused on three market segments: passenger and light commercial, light and heavy commercial and 4WD. In each of these markets the extensive KYB product range is reportedly engineered specifically to perform in harsh, Australian conditions and is supported by detailed technical and application catalogues. More recently, NGK has added CAIRE to its growing business portfolio, explaining that

“CAIRE creates the world’s most advanced oxygen solutions” and leverages its innovative manufacturing expertise. CAIRE’s innovative technology is said to give COPD sufferers and their caregivers the confidence to breathe easier with the most extensive line of oxygen concentrators on the market from simple-to-operate portable units to at-home concentrators that operate quietly, and effortlessly. There is little doubt that NGK Spark Plug has left an indelible mark on the automotive aftermarket, with NGK stating it is confident that its commitment to innovation, exploration and sustainability will secure its success for the next 40 years. For more information, visit www.ngk.com.au

BUSINESS SERVICES

BUILD YOUR DIGITAL PRESENCE WITH MOBILE APPS Workshop software company 5iQ says a strong digital presence is more important than ever Digital presence is often thought of as a website or social media, simply how your business appears online. In 2016 there were 140.7 billion mobile apps downloaded compared to 204 billion mobile apps downloaded in 2019, with more businesses turning to expand their digital presence. “You need a strong digital presence because your customers are online using mobile apps for almost everything due to convenience and the speed at which we can get things done now,” 5iQ Chief Executive Officer, Mark Alfred, said. 5iQ says having a mobile app digital presence will allow you to: • Create visibility – the more visible your business is to your current customer and prospects the easier they will be able to find and use your service. • Build constancy – grow your business with a consistent online presence which will help your brand recognition. • Build customer loyalty – your customers are people and people are relational, meaning people will buy from people or companies they trust. Use your digital presence to show your customers and prospects that your business is helpful, trustworthy and knowledgeable.

• Make a positive first impression – your online presence determines the kind of impression you will leave. According to Forbes, most people form a first impression within the first seven seconds. • Share valuable content – create educational messages and share news such as tips to maintain your vehicle. Write what your audience cares about as this content will educate, build trust and loyalty resulting in them coming back, increasing repeat and referral business. • Simplify daily tasks – apps have eliminated the need for your customers to physically go to your store or ring your workshop to make a booking.

• Reduce costs while increasing productivity – the cost of the app remains constant month in and month out however your digital presence significantly increases your chances of receiving bookings 24/7 through digital automation without the need to hire additional staff. “Brand recognition fulfills and rewards loyal customers, it also attracts new customers based on its reputation and referral from a happy customer,” Mark said. “I think we all agree service and quality make a brand and our customer app provides a new platform for workshops to take their service and brand digital.” For more information, contact 5iQ at info@fiiviq.com or 07 5600 1959.

MAKE WORKING SMARTER THE NEW NORMAL Sensium offers GPS tracking technologies to help your business In any business, there are pressures. The pressure to grow, the pressure to achieve stability and in more cases than many will admit, the pressure to simply not crumble under the load of all the pressure. Sensium says it was born out of the simple idea that there is always a better way to do business, but how do you turn invisible aggravation into visible opportunities? It says the first step is recognising that adjustments to your business can make an immeasurable difference to your organisation, and then affect real change through distinct action. However, it is easy to appoint blame, make excuses and resist change. Sensium says the trick here is to change the conversation. “Instead of statements like ‘I’m not going to…’ or ‘I have tried, but….’ promotion of personal ownership of a particular issue and being involved

in change can make all the difference,” Sensium Chief Executive Officer, Jeremy McLean, said. “Even a statement such as ‘I don’t know what to do, but something has to change’ is a step in the right direction. “Let’s look at a particular scenario which is common to most businesses in transport – the push towards sustainability and being ecofriendly. “The reality is that transport services require vehicles, and vehicles use fuel, which runs counter to a clean green image. “Instead of simply offsetting the environmental impact by contributing from your bottom line, why not recognise that efficiency in the delivery of your services, for example, better route planning, travel in off-peak times, or better team communication are all ways in which your business can make less of an impact on the environment, be more efficient, achieve more

and turn resistance to change into an element of pride. “It’s time to make working smarter the new normal.” To learn more about how Sensium’s “world-leading” GPS tracking technologies could help your business, call Sensium on 1800 764 824 to arrange a free trial or visit www.sensium.net/change to make the switch. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

CONSUMER LAW

UNCOLLECTED VEHICLES A customer’s failure to collect a vehicle after an assessment or service can be a hinderance to the business and take up valuable space What options are there for the business in such a situation? The business may take steps to dispose of the vehicle under the uncollected goods legislative regime of the State or Territory in which the business is located. It is important to follow each of the required steps of the relevant uncollected goods regime to ensure the vehicle is lawfully disposed of. Some uncollected goods legislative regimes have recently been modernised or are undergoing review to create efficiencies in the disposal of uncollected goods process. For example, New South Wales has recently updated its legislative regime and streamlined the process. It is hoped that some of the more complex uncollected goods legislative regimes will similarly be reviewed and modernised to assist businesses operate with efficiency. Importantly, this article provides general information and a general overview only of disposing of uncollected vehicles. If your business has an uncollected vehicle at its premises, contact us to find out about the process that is relevant for the State or Territory in which the business with the uncollected vehicle is located.

Value of the vehicle Each legislative regime contains different processes depending on the value of the vehicle. For this reason, other than for Queensland, the first step is to obtain, or make, an independent assessment of the value of the vehicle before starting the process to dispose of the uncollected vehicle.

Notice Generally, the process of each legislative regime commences with the business providing notice to the customer that the vehicle is ready for collection (together with other specified information).

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

We recommend that the business obtain the home address, email address and contact phone number of each customer as part of the process of providing a service for a customer. This is important because, with some exceptions, most current legislative regimes require notice to be posted to, or left at the address of, the customer. Having the customer’s address makes it easy for the business to start the process of disposing of the vehicle.

After notice is provided The process after notice is provided varies between the State and Territory regimes and can depend on the value of the vehicle. In some legislative regimes low value vehicles need only be retained for a short time (as specified in the legislation) before disposal, other regimes and processes require further notices, newspaper advertising, Government Gazette advertising and/or tribunal or court applications to be made before the vehicle is disposed of.

• Generally, record keeping of particular information is required under the legislative regimes, additionally, we recommend the business keep detailed records of the disposal of the vehicle. • Some legislative regimes have other specific requirements, for example, Queensland requires businesses to display a sign in respect of the uncollected goods regime at the place of business.

Information and legislative changes

Most legislative regimes also require additional steps to be taken for all vehicles or vehicles of a particular value. Such steps may include seeking a certificate that a vehicle is not stolen from, and/ or providing notice to, the Commissioner of Police, and/or obtaining a written search of the Personal Property Security Register. It is important to ensure that the requirements of the State or Territory in which the vehicle is located are complied with.

If you have any questions regarding the uncollected goods regime in your State or Territory, please contact us. Alternatively, if you have previously received an uncollected goods fact sheet from us and wish to refer to the fact sheet to dispose of another uncollected vehicle left at the premises of your business please contact us first to check for any legislative changes to the uncollected goods regime in your State or Territory. If there are legislative changes, we can provide you with an updated fact sheet.

Other considerations

Takeaways

Special requirements for vehicles

• If there is a dispute regarding the charges in respect of the vehicle, or the customer is refusing to pay the business for other reasons, then it is very likely the uncollected goods legislative regime will not be appropriate to address the circumstance (please contact us for further information). • In the majority of circumstances, the vehicle may only be disposed of by public auction. • Generally, the business will be able to retain outstanding amounts, reasonable storage (from the date the notice is sent) and the expenses of the business in relation to the sale of the vehicle. It is important to check the relevant legislative regime to ensure the business is only retaining what is allowed under the relevant legislation. • If the amount of the proceeds of sale remaining after the charges of the business are deducted cannot be returned to the customer, it must be deposited with the authority specified in the legislative regime.

The key takeaways if there is an uncollected vehicle at your business premises are: • contact us to discuss the situation, to obtain a fact sheet/information relevant for your State or Territory, and/or check for legislative changes; • make sure you use the correct disposal process; • obtain the home address of your customers for each service. This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Industry Legal Group if you require legal advice

AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters. If you have any questions relating to the above information, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au

HIGH COURT DECISION: PERSONAL/CARER’S LEAVE The High Court has overturned the contentious Mondelez Decision Last year, Employer Assist issued an article on the Full Federal Court of Australia’s controversial landmark decision in Mondelez Australia Pty Ltd v AMWU [2019] FCAFC 138 (Mondelez Decision) regarding the calculation of personal/carer’s leave (Personal Leave) under the Fair Work Act 2009 (Act). The Mondelez Decision has now been overturned by the High Court.

Background on the Act Section 96 of the Act, states: (1) For each year of service with his or her employer, an employee is entitled to 10 days of paid personal/carer’s leave. (2) An employee’s entitlement to paid personal/ carer’s leave accrues progressively during a year of service according to the employee’s ordinary hours of work, and accumulates from year to year. Under section 99 of the Act, payment for Personal Leave taken is calculated by reference to an employee’s “ordinary hours of work.”

The Mondelez Decision Two employees of Mondelez Australia Pty Ltd (Mondelez) worked 36 ordinary hours (three x 12-hour shifts) per week. In accordance with their enterprise agreement, they were entitled to 96 hours of paid Personal Leave per year of service being the average daily ordinary hours based on a standard fiveday working week (eg. 38 hours per week/7.6 hours per day x 10 days = 76 hours of paid Personal Leave per year of service). When the employees took paid Personal Leave, Mondelez would deduct 12 hours from their accrued Personal Leave balance. Based on this approach, the employees only accrued enough Personal Leave over the course of a year to be absent for eight days of 12-hour shifts.

The dispute between the parties was whether Mondelez’s calculation of Personal Leave was inconsistent with the Act and whether the employees were instead entitled to accrue 10 days of Personal Leave per year of service paid at 12-hours a day. The Full Court found that the meaning of “day” is a “working day” (ie. the number of ordinary hours actually worked by an employee during a 24-hour period). The effect of the Mondelez Decision was that the employees were entitled to accrue 10 days of Personal Leave per year of service paid at 12-hours a day. The Mondelez Decision had significant cost implications (including back pay and contraventions of the Act) for employers who had not been accruing and/or deducting Personal Leave in line with the Mondelez Decision. In response, Mondelez and the Australian Government sought leave to appeal the Mondelez Decision.

High Court Decision In Mondelez Australia Pty Ltd v AMWU & Ors [2020] HCA 29, the High Court overturned the Mondelez Decision rejecting the “working day” construction. Instead, the High Court held that for the purpose of section 96(1) of the Act: 1. a “day” refers to a “notional day” consisting of one-tenth (1/10) of the equivalent of an employee’s ordinary hours of work in a two week/fortnightly period; and 2. the expression “10 days” means an amount of Personal Leave accruing for every year of service equivalent to an employee’s ordinary hours of work in a week over a two week/ fortnightly period (ie. one-twenty-sixth (1/26) of the employee’s ordinary hours of work in a year).

What does this mean? The High Court Decision has been welcomed by many employers as it aligns with the widely accepted method of accruing and deducting Personal Leave according to the employee’s ordinary hours of work. It is now clear that the entitlement to “10 days” of paid Personal Leave can be calculated as 1/26 of an employee’s ordinary hours of work in a year. For example, if an employee works: 1. 38 hours per week, they will receive 76 hours of Personal Leave per year of service (ie. [38 hours x 52 weeks]/26); or 2. 20 hours per week, they will receive 40 hours of Personal Leave per year (i.e. [20 hours x 52 weeks]/26), being an amount equal to 2 weeks (ie. 10 notional days) Personal Leave for that employee. Employers who adjusted their method of accrual and deduction of Personal Leave following the Mondelez Decision can readjust to align with method set out in the High Court Decision. This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Employer Assist for specific advice.

AAAA Member Benefits Employer Assist provides AAAA members with advice on workplace relations and employment law matters. Please contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or aaaa@employerassist.com.au if you have any questions about the content of this article or if you require any assistance with your business. Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

PERFORMANCE AND RACING

BURSON AUTO PARTS DOUBLES UP ON TRACK IN 2020 Two Burson Auto Parts Racing TCR Australia cars will take to the track this year Automotive parts, tools and workshop equipment trade supplier, Burson Auto Parts, will double-up the company’s presence in one of Australia’s most exciting touring car championships this year. Following the aborted start to the 2020 carsales TCR Australia Championship at the cancelled Australian Grand Prix season opener in Melbourne back in March, Burson Auto Parts has stayed on the virtual track thanks to the efforts of talented father and son racers Jason and Ben Bargwanna throughout the COVID-19 disruption of the official race event calendar. Now, just like the double Burson Auto Parts simulator racing challenge, the Australian company is pleased to announce that two Burson Auto Parts Racing TCR Australia cars will take to the track across the newly revised 2020 carsales TCR Australia Championship season. As announced in March, highly experienced former Supercar race winner Jason Bargwanna will compete in the Burson Auto Parts Racing Peugeot 308 TCR, while his son Ben will make his TCR Australia Championship debut in a uniquely liveried second Burson Auto Parts Racing Peugeot 308 TCR, with both cars prepared and raced by legendary Australian motorsport team, Garry Rogers Motorsport. This doubles Burson Auto Parts’ motorsport based marketing efforts together with supplier sponsors Dayco, Wesfil, Fuchs, Hella, Hella Pagid, Sachs, Bosch and Premier Auto Trade. Both Burson Auto Parts Racing Peugeot 308 TCR drivers have taken part in detailed pre-season testing and are well prepared and very eager to finally get the racing underway in this COVID-19 disrupted season. “We had set out at the start of the year with a clear and structured plan with defined goals for both Ben and I, then 2020 slapped us in the face and forced a total rethink. Initially Ben and I were going to team up for the Bathurst International in the two-driver event but those plans have changed and ours had to as well,” Jason said. “We have worked closely with Burson Auto Parts and together we have aligned our goals and I am very excited to expand to a two-car program for the remainder of 2020. “Ben now makes the step to TCR and I am so proud of him. From his first Kart race meeting at Gippsland Kart Club, as a 10 year old, when he spent every lap of his first race waving to mum and I as he drove past, to the day the penny dropped and he realised what winning was all 84

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about, to watching him drive out of pit lane in the Burson Auto Parts Peugeot at the pre-season test, really was a lump in the throat moment. He has grown into a great young man - he clearly got that from his mother! “It is surreal to think that together we will head out and tackle the top quality TCR Australia field. I guess the saying about the first person you want to beat is your teammate now takes on a whole new and deeply personal meaning! He is the one driver I would be proud to finish in second place to.” As you would expect, Ben Bargwanna is counting the hours and minutes before his debut TCR race in the Burson Auto Parts Racing Peugeot 308. “It is just awesome to be a part of the Burson Auto Parts Racing Team. I am so hungry for this that it hurts and driving the car for the first time in testing was an amazing experience,” Ben said. “It was a bitter pill to swallow when my Formula Ford Championship plans were disrupted by the pandemic, but I decided to stay focused, positive and to work hard on the things that I could control. “I have really enjoyed driving for the team in the E-Racing Sim world, I am fit and ready and now can’t wait for the real-world racing to start,” Ben said. “I make no assumptions of the size of the challenge I am facing with this, but with the support of Garry Rogers Motorsport and Burson Auto Parts, I will work harder than any driver in the field to make the most out of this fantastic opportunity. “The first goal is to make the top ten, then to make the top five and race for the podium. I am focused on doing whatever it takes to win, including beating the old man!” All jokes aside, it also means a great deal for Ben to be able to race with and against his father.

“Not only is this a great opportunity to be part of the TCR Australia field, but it is also an amazing opportunity to be racing with my Dad,” Ben said. “He has been there for every step of my racing and for him to be a part of this next huge step means a lot. Everything I have learnt so far has been from him, so to continue that next step of my learning with him can only generate further improvement.” Burson Auto Parts General Manager, Marketing, Anthony Hughes, is excited about doubling up on the track in this delayed start to the 2020 carsales TCR Australia Championship. “We are delighted that the opportunity became available to place a second Burson Auto Parts Racing TCR car on the grid in this delayed start to the 2020 season. We are also looking forward to the father and son battles that will progress across the six races that will form the new look championship,” Anthony said. “Along with the impossible to miss Burson Auto Parts livery on Jason’s car, logos of more company owned brands will appear on Ben’s car throughout the season, reminding our valued customers and new customers of these quality Australian automotive aftermarket brands.” The 2020 carsales TCR Australia Championship is scheduled to return to the track from October and extend through to the end of January 2021. All races will be televised live and free on the Seven Network across Australia. For updated event information, visit www.tcraustralia.com Australia’s Burson Auto Parts is part of the country’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, Bapcor Limited. There are more than 187 Burson Auto Parts stores nationwide with the company’s growth continuing at a solid pace. For more information, visit www.burson.com.au

PERFORMANCE AND RACING

PRI EVENT UPDATE PRI President Dr Jamie Meyer has released a statement on the 2020 Performance Racing Industry Trade Show The statement reads as follows: “Thank you for your continued interest and support of the PRI Trade Show. I have been attending the PRI Show for over 20 years, but there has never been a year like this. The impact of the COVID-19 pandemic has hit all aspects of American life, including the racing industry. This letter is intended to help inform you of the latest news on the 2020 PRI Trade Show, as well as to help you understand what the PRI team is working on to ensure that the Show can go on. Above all, I want you to know that we will do what is right for the industry. “I know that you have a lot of questions and concerns right now, and I want to help answer those. To be clear, at this moment (5 August 2020) the 2020 PRI Trade Show will be held at the Indiana Convention Center on December 10-12 as scheduled. We have over 940 exhibitors who have registered in anticipation of displaying their racing products. We are working closely with the Visit Indy team, the Indiana Convention Center staff, and other Indianapolis officials including the Office of the Mayor of Indianapolis to ensure that we can offer you a safe and productive Trade Show. “There is a lot of momentum in the racing industry, and we intend for the PRI Trade Show to continue that momentum into the 2021 racing

season. NASCAR, NHRA, Street Car Takeover, NMCA/NMRA, and SCCA are all running events in the Indianapolis area with planned crowds of several thousand people. While many local and national crowds are being limited in size, these racing events are still going on, safely. “Currently, the city of Indianapolis is at Stage 4.5 (out of 5) through August 27. What this means to PRI is that we could not hold an event larger than 250 people without approval of the Marion County Public Health Department. Fortunately, the Visit Indy team has already had great success gaining this approval for events that are being held at the Indiana Convention Center right now. This includes several weekend high school basketball tournaments with over 7,000 people in attendance. These events have been held with sensible safety measures in place, and with no outbreaks of COVID-19 reported. In addition, the entire city of Indianapolis (hotels, restaurants, transportation companies, and many more) is looking forward to, and preparing for, the PRI Trade Show. “Here is the challenge that the PRI Trade Show is facing: we will have to obtain the approval of our safety plan from the Marion County Public Health Department. The PRI safety plan will include the use of what are now regularly accepted health precautions like wearing a mask, sanitizing your hands, going through a health screening, and

social distancing throughout the event. This assumes that Indianapolis stays at Stage 4.5, and, as we all know, these safety guidelines can be changed at any time to adjust to changes in COVID-19 cases. “I liken these safety guidelines to the rules of any racing sanctioning body. You are required to wear safety equipment as part of normal precautions to competing in your race car. You will be asked to follow similar safety guidelines and wear safety equipment to participate in the 2020 PRI Trade Show. “I wish you the very best during these uncertain times, and I ask for your patience and support as we all work through the challenges that I have presented to you. As racers have always done, we will be optimistic, realistic, and win together. As a follow-up, if you have additional questions, please direct them to us at the following email: President@PerformanceRacing.com” For more from PRI, visit www.performanceracing.com

REPCO REVS UP SUPERCARS Repco has been announced as the naming rights partner of Supercars and also the Bathurst 1000 Leading Australasian provider of automotive aftermarket parts and accessories, Repco, is no stranger to motorsport. Now it is once again stepping up its motorsport involvement and engagement with two new fiveyear agreements commencing in 2021 which will see it as the naming rights sponsor for the Repco Supercars Championship and also the Repco Bathurst 1000. “We are so excited to be announcing this partnership with Supercars,” Repco (AU) Executive General Manager, Wayne Bryant, said. “We have a rich history with the sport, and together with the Repco Bathurst 1000, this is our most exhilarating step yet. “The Supercars family have shown in recent times how well they have all pulled together for the betterment of the sport and to provide race fans with a superior level of sports entertainment.

“We are really proud to be given the opportunity to become part of that family and work with them to bring the series to the fans that share our enduring passion.” In the 1940s, Repco engineer Charlie Dean brought the world the Maybach Special, which raced from 1947 to 1960. Repco then famously partnered with Sir Jack Brabham, Denny Hulme and the Brabham racing team to win the formula one world championships in 1966 and 1967. More recently Repco was crowned the Official Automotive Retailer of the Supercars series in 2018 and has supported DJR Team Penske, celebrating Scott Mclaughlin’s Supercars Championship winning Shell V-Power Mustang in both 2018 and 2019. Today, Repco has a network of 400 automotive parts and accessories stores across Australia and New Zealand.

“We are delighted to have a name that has been associated with Australian motorsport since the 1940s as our naming rights partner for the next five years,” Supercars Chief Executive Officer, Sean Seamer, said. “Repco has invested considerably in our sport and to carry their name as naming rights partner into 233 million homes across more than 90 countries is great news for both parties. “Repco is an iconic international motorsport brand with a proud history, and we are thrilled to extend our partnership with them.” For more information, visit www.repco.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

4WD

INTENSITY SOLIS DRIVING LIGHTS From ARB ARB says it has been a staple in the lighting game for many years as the first manufacturer of round off-road LED driving lights, and states its latest iteration of driving light is no exception to its proven track record. The ARB Intensity Solis light is a nine-inch driving light with 36 OSRAM LEDs, giving you plenty of light for the road ahead. With in-house engineers concentrating on refining the optics to focus the most amount of light while removing flat spots and controlling the beam to the right area, the Solis lights are made and tested for the variable Australian terrain. ARB says the light output has been measured at one lux at 1,462 metres (two x spot lights) to NATA industry standards.

WANT SECURITY? Say no more!

It would be fair to say that for most owners of commercial vehicles, their vehicle is crucial to their job. For most, utes are designed to get from job to job, keeping tools safe, secure and dry. That is why it is so important to ensure your tools are kept safe not only from harsh environments, but also from prying eyes. HSP says its Roll R Cover has been specifically designed to give you peace of mind by not only keeping your tools secure and dry, but virtually making it impossible for any intruders to get into your tub thanks to a long list of design features. HSP explains these features include: • Interlocking extrusions on the curtain, which unlike other roll tops in the market, cannot be split cut using a Stanley knife. • Motor Lock – when the unit is in the closed position, the unit is locked, so heavy force can not simply push it open. • Variable code transmitter – the receiver and remote or app are constantly transmitting variable codes, so the receiver can not open using generic remotes.

• No Exterior locks – with no exterior locks, there is nothing a thief can try to break to dismantle the locking. “When we learned that theft was in the top five most common reported crimes in Australia, it was not hard to imagine how convenient and simple it is for thieves to patrol the streets and look for utes or trailers that may have thousands of dollars’ worth of tools,” HSP 4x4 Director, Massih Aimaq, said. “Simply based on that alone, we knew that security had to be a key factor in designing our products.” For more information on the HSP Roll R Cover or to join the HSP distribution family, please contact HSP on info@hsputelids.com or visit www.hsputelids.com

MAXLINER LAUNCHES NEW D-MAX ACCESSORIES The Solis lights feature a unique digital dimmer control that allows the user to incrementally adjust brightness to suit driving conditions. For users of LINX, the Solis lights can be fully integrated with an optional controller harness to be released in late September. The Solis lights feature an improved colour temperature of light, which reduces eye strain and fatigue when doing long distance driving. The light also has a die-cast aluminium body that acts as a heat sink and allows the dissipation of heat to keep the lights running at maximum performance. ARB says the famous red ring of the ARB Intensity lights has become intrinsically linked with driving lights over the years and while the Solis lights share a level of design with the Intensity V2 lights, Solis features two bezels on the sides of the light that are interchangeable between red and black, both of which come standard with the light. ARB Intensity Solis driving lights come in spot and flood variants and are $349 each. They are available in store now. For more information, visit www.arb.com.au 86

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The products have reportedly been designed and tested to OEM Specification Maxliner Australia now offers a complete range of D-MAX accessories including MaxTop Canopies, MaxCover Hard Tonneaus, Maxliner Bedliners, MaxPro Floor Mats and Ute Accessories. These products have reportedly been designed and tested to OEM Specification by a dedicated team of R&D Engineers based in Maxliner’s Global Head Office in Thailand, working directly with Isuzu limited. The Isuzu D-MAX range comprises of the following mainstream accessories: • MaxTop Canopies: manufactured from tough ABS Canopy Shell which is 100 percent recyclable. Maxliner says its canopies are robust and durable, combined with an internal metal frame for greater durability and loading capacity and able to support additional loads on the roof rack. All Maxliner Canopies are painted using OE quality paints. • The all-new MaxCover Alloy Hard Lid and MaxRail System: a premium hard tonneau cover. Maxliner says this strong, robust and durable aluminium hard tonneau also gives

the flexibility to carry large items on top of the cover or to fit an optional cross bar. • Maxliner KD Five-Piece Under Rail Bed Liner: Maxliner says this product represents its latest evolutionary step regarding bedliner innovation. For this variant, the floor has a ‘non-skid floor surface’ reducing the sliding of cargo while driving. Furthermore, the fivepiece design reportedly allows a closer fit to the truck bed, maximizing inside space. This is all packed in a single box, reducing transport damages; and Maxliner says it can be shipped much more efficiently than the traditional bed liners while being easy to DIY install. Maxliner says all accessories will be available at the launch of the vehicle directly through Maxliner Australia or via one of its premium distributors across Australia. For more information, visit www.maxliner.com.au or call 1800 592 192.

4WD

AEROKLAS FITMENT CENTRE OPENS IN WA Flexiglass and Aeroklas combine to form an all-new fitment centre Aeroklas says it is pleased to announce an exciting purpose-built 270 square-metre showroom as part of a new supersized fitment centre, which will service its local WA customers. Located east of Perth in Kewdale WA, this facility will be the second of its kind, with the first being successfully opened on Brisbane’s northside in early 2020. This new fitment centre is a culmination of recognisable automotive brands Aeroklas, Flexiglass and Bocar which together have roots stretching as far back as 1949, bringing together more than 150 years of aftermarket auto accessories innovation experience. Flexiglass was established in Western Australia, creating the first fibreglass vehicle canopy way back in 1956 and since then growing to become “a true powerhouse of the industry.” Bocar was established on the Gold Coast in 1970 and boasts a long and proud history of working with OEMs, specialising in aluminium tray solutions and recently launching a brand new Stockade series of Bull Bars, ready-made

for getting your vehicle ready for tough working conditions. The Aeroklas team has been producing premium plastic automotive accessories for over 35 years and boasts a great history in developing innovative products to service a growing retail network in Australia and a global brand presence. “The Flexiglass brand is one of the oldest in the automotive industry and this transition is the next chapter in a long and storied history,” Aeroklas Australia Head of Customer Experience, Matt Logan, said. The move to an Aeroklas fitment centre will see products from Flexiglass, Aeroklas and Bocar come together for viewing, purchase and fitment all in the one location. “By combining Flexiglass’ deep product range with Aeroklas Australia’s growing footprint and vision for the future, the Flexiglass brand and our customers will have an enhanced service experience moving forward,” Matt said. “Some services offered by the Aeroklas fitment

centre include fleet and dealer vehicle fitouts, tailored packages, modification, compliance and GVM upgrades, all performed in a timely manner with one point of invoice and contact. “Our broadened range of product categories include vehicle protection, storage solutions and general vehicle upgrades. This combination of brands, products, services and experienced staff forms the perfect destination for all your light commercial vehicle fitment needs.” The Aeroklas fitment centre Kewdale is located at 523 Abernethy Rd, Kewdale WA 6105 and is open from 8.00am until 4:30pm, Monday to Friday. Visitors are welcome. The Aeroklas network can be contacted nationally by phoning 1300 656 599.

NEW IRONMAN 4X4 CANVAS SEAT COVERS New front and rear seat covers are now available for Suzuki Jimny 2018+ Ironman 4x4 now has front and rear canvas seat covers for the Suzuki Jimny 2018+. Ironman 4x4 says these seat covers provide the ultimate protection and comfort when 4WDing. Resistant to water and mud, the seat covers are made from 12oz 100 percent natural cotton canvas and are backed with an additional layer of foam. It explains the seat covers are vehicle specific and include strong underseat straps to perfectly secure to the seat, no matter your adventure. Made with a special approved and tested seam, the seat covers are side airbag compatible, in case of emergencies, and flame retardant. Key features include strong comfort canvas, a custom fit, long-lasting quality, maximum vehicle seat protection and a tailored fit for comfort and style. The covers are backed with foam and polyester nylon for additional comfort and protection, are flame retardant and water-resistant and feature strong under-seat securing straps, built-in map pockets (front seat covers only) and 100 percent cotton natural fibre canvas. They are certified side airbag compatible. For more information, visit www.ironman4x4.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

IN THE WORKSHOP

CELEBRATING APPRENTICES In this article, ARCA’s Mike Smith congratulates the 2020 Capricorn Rising Star Apprentice of the Year and her employer I was exceptionally pleased to see the Capricorn Rising Star Apprentice of the Year Awards return for 2020 to recognise and celebrate some amazing stars of our industry’s next generation. Across Australia and New Zealand, more than 250 apprentices were nominated this year across industry sectors including panel and paint, auto electrical, heavy diesel, tyre/wheel and general mechanical workshops. From those deserving nominees, the highly respected Capricorn Rising Stars judging panel selected Lachlan Fraser (JMH Group, WA), Gabrielle Clift (Highfields Mechanical and Off Road, QLD), Dylan Quinn (Carrington Street Auto Repairs, SA), Abby Price (Bensons Auto Clinic, NZ) and Lochlan Robinson (NCD Custom Refinishing, NSW) as their five finalists, with Gabrielle announced as the ultimate victor. Alongside this title, Gabrielle will also receive prizes including an all-expenses paid Castrol Supercars Experience and Workshop Whisperer Leadership Academy training. Meanwhile her employer, Highfields Mechanical and Off Road, has been awarded 150,000 Capricorn Bonus Points for their winning nomination. I was pleased to speak with both Gabrielle and her employer recently about this great news. “Honestly, I was shocked to find out that I had won. Wayne (Burton – Capricorn Sales Manager, QLD) was at Highfields Mechanical because I had made the top five finalists, and whilst we were taking some photos, he announced I was the winner. I was shocked but at the same time, delighted and humbled,” Gabrielle said. “There are so many young apprentices in Australia and New Zealand that are striving to learn about the industry and all achieving high quality work, so I certainly did not expect to win. “Being recognised in this way gives me confidence to know I am heading in the right direction. I have a strong passion to thrive within this industry and being recognised by such a significant group of industry professionals is truly an honour that cannot be defined. “I think it is great to have an award such as this which encourages apprentices to excel and gives them recognition for the hard work they put in. As apprentices we are excited and driven to learn as much as we can, to become knowledgeable technicians. “Receiving this award gives me some extra motivation to keep moving forward and learning as much as I possibly can, in what is an everchanging industry. The automotive industry is changing at a pace which has never been seen 88

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine September 2020

before. The technology and innovation vehicles are coming out with now is exciting and learning how to master that is truly exhilarating. “I wish to thank (Highfields Mechanical Owners) Craig and Katherine Baills for believing in me and (fellow Highfields apprentice) Tarquin. Their knowledge of the automotive industry is phenomenal and we appreciate their enthusiasm and continual encouragement to keep learning and striving for excellence in all we do. They are truly an inspiration. “I also want to thank the entire Highfields Mechanical Team who have each helped me to learn and develop my skills and are like a second family, and also the Martins – Craig, Kim and Sam – who have been amazing in helping me to pursue my Mechanical apprenticeship by connecting me with Highfields Mechanical. They have truly opened a new door for me and have been such a great help through this amazing journey and I am truly grateful. “Finally, my thanks goes to the Capricorn Judging Panel for this opportunity. I am so grateful to be the recipient of this award. I am sure there were many deserving apprentices and that it was a difficult decision. “To all the other apprentices in Australia and New Zealand, I want to say well done on being nominated. You were nominated because you are striving and excelling in your apprenticeship. We are the future of the automotive industry and I am excited to work alongside you all. Keep up with the great work!” For Highfields Mechanical Owner, Craig Baills, it was a very proud moment to see Gabrielle succeed in this prestigious competition. “We currently have three apprentices and we made the decision to nominate both Gabrielle and Tarquin as they are both fully invested in learning and being the best they can be with the apprenticeship,” Craig said. “I was extremely stoked to hear Gabrielle had achieved the win. It was totally unexpected but on the same part, completely deserved. She puts in the effort day in and day in out and I feel it was a win for both her and Tarquin. I am extremely proud of them both. “It is great that she is getting this recognition for her hard work and efforts; and for us as a business, it means we are operating in the right manner as a host and employer for apprentices in this trade and it gives us reassurance we are doing the right training by our apprentices. “It has been noted this is the first time a woman has won the award which is great, but also

(From left to right) Highfields Mechanical Owner Craig Baills, Capricorn Sales Manager QLD Wayne Burton, Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year Gabrielle Clift and Co-Owner Katherine Baills.

Gabrielle loves what she does and is treated like all of the other technicians – she chose to be a mechanic and she doesn’t expect any special treatment based on gender. “This is a long-term, rewarding career and as an industry I think it is important we work together to develop initiatives to encourage people into the trade and to keep techs in the trade. I think the Capricorn Rising Stars concept is an awesome idea and a great avenue for apprentices to be rewarded for their willingness to learn. It generates the competitive nature in apprentices, and it is great to see them wanting to be involved. “I would like to take a moment to acknowledge all of the nominees and the finalists, they all need a special mention for their hard work. “Anytime we can recognise the achievements of anyone in the trade, it can only benefit the trade for the future. We are in a different era, and now more than ever, we need to be diligent in making sure the industry is receiving the correct training and advice to produce the best techs that we can.” I hope you will join me in congratulating Gabrielle and all of the Capricorn Rising Stars Finalists for their efforts.

In this series of articles, Automotive Repairers Council of Australia (ARCA) convener, Mike Smith, will take a look at issues that will affect automotive repairer workshops and topics of interest to the sector including occasional profiles of mechanics and other key personnel. msmith@aaaa.com.au