Towing Systems & Vehicle Protection: All the latest in towbar & bullbar components

UN-RIVALED 4X4 PROTECTION

Rival aluminium bumpers protect 4WDs without the disadvantage of a bulky and heavy steel bull bar

Available through Drivetech 4x4 and NAPA Auto Parts, the stylish aluminium bumpers are designed to last the toughest environments and can be matched with underbody armour to protect vehicles from rocks, logs and scrapes. Drivetech 4x4 Business Manager, Ben Lavis, is quick to point out the Rival range is easy to install, using OE mounting points so no drilling or modification is required and with LED lighting integrated into the bumper. “Rival bumpers are constructed from a lightweight yet rugged 6mm aluminium alloy body, with 5mm steel mounting brackets enabling them to protect without the weight of a traditional bull bar,” Ben said. “Their distinctive design not only enhances the look of a vehicle but also increases its approach angle to improve performance.” Each Russian made bumper is vehicle specific for the front and rear, suiting the styling and size of leading models including HiLux, LandCruiser, Ranger, Navara, Amarok and Triton to name a few. Importantly, each Rival front bumper includes a winch mount and integrated recovery points. The skid plates and under body armour are using 6mm aluminium with stiffening ribs to provide maximum strength. Powder coated with a corrosion resistant polymer, the range can include plates to protect arms, radiator, engine, gearbox, transfer case and fuel tank, depending on the vehicle. The protective underbody armour is laser cut and will not decrease ground clearance once installed. The design includes apertures for water and dirt drainage as well as airflow venting, and the concealed fit makes for minimal damage during off-road driving and connect easily with Rival aluminium bumpers for a full protection solution. Although Rival’s bumpers, underbody armour and skid plates add a new level of protection to 4WDs, NAPA Auto Parts notes that they also produce a range of roof racks, tailgate assist kits and bonnet strut kits to ensure the rest of the vehicle has an enhanced level of performance. For more information on the range of Rival products, as well as 4WD products from other leading brands, NAPA Auto Parts invites you to contact its team at your local NAPA Auto Parts branch. To find your nearest NAPA Auto Parts location, visit www.napaparts.com.au/locations

HAYMAN REESE’S X-BAR

For serious off roaders

Merging 70 years of towing expertise with a tough off-road design and vehicle recovery top of mind, Hayman Reese says its X-Bar is a truly innovative towbar. Designed for flay tray and tub variants, the X-Bar is available for a range of top selling crew cab fourwheel-drives. Fitted with forged recovery points rated up to 8,000kg, the X-Bar is designed to deliver on the most important needs for off-road enthusiasts. Recovery rated

With off-road caravan and camper trailer sales booming, the demand for towing products for fourwheel-drive enthusiasts is also increasing. X-Bar is the first towbar to come standard with three recovery points rated to a maximum of 8,000kg. This gives serious off-roaders a safe and tested recovery option with their towing solution. Maximum clearance

The flat tray version of the X-Bar is designed to increase clearance where possible and is positioned up to 100mm higher than a standard OEM towbar allowing maximum ground clearance over rough terrain. The integrated bash plate complements the clean design and keeps wiring safe and out of the way. Superior strength

Designed to handle the most challenging of off-road situations, Hayman Reese says the X-Bar is built with stronger and thicker side plates and centre cross tube when compared to a standard towbar. The forged side recovery points are rated at 4,000kg each and the centre point is rated at 8,000kg. A forged trailer ball mount is used for increased strength and durability. Further, Hayman Reese explains that the X-Bar is ADR compliant and has been tested thoroughly to ensure it will stand the test of time in the harshest of conditions. Attention to detail

Hayman Reese explains that special attention has been paid to wiring plug locations to help ensure maximum protection and adequate space to set up for your specific towing needs. The tub version of the X-Bar includes a sleek designed cover plate to ensure a clean look when not towing but lifts up to provide easy access to shackle points and trailer plugs when towing. Hayman Reese says the X-Bar encompasses the quality synonymous with the Hayman Reese name, and comes standard with MetalShield twostage paint protection and SmartClick vehicle specific wiring solutions. For more information, visit www.haymanreese.com.au

BUILT TO PERFORM

ECB says it has the largest range of frontal protection products dating back to vehicles made in the early 1990s

Established in 1971, East Coast Bullbars (ECB) manufacture Alloy Frontal Protection Products including Bullbars and Nudge Bars for passenger vehicles, 4WDs, SUVs, light commercial vehicles and trucks. ECB states that all of its Australian made products are “built to perform, not built to a price,” with a strong focus on designing and building products that are fit for purpose and provide maximum protection with minimal weight. “Every product we design is built for the tough Aussie conditions and meet all ADR requirements,” East Coast Bullbars National Sales and Marketing Manager, Gaven Paterson, said. “The new vehicle market is continually evolving and improving with new technology and improved safety features and crash avoidance systems. “As such, our R&D department is continually developing new products to suit the constant stream of new vehicle arrivals. Our objective is to create solutions for our customers and provide products fit for purpose. This avoids long lead times and waiting for products to be made in factories overseas and shipped to Australia.” Why fit a Bullbar?

The two main reasons people want to fit a Bullbar is for protection and convenience. A good quality Bullbar will protect the front of your vehicle and all the important mechanical components and offer superior protection from animals and even wayward drivers and will also protect in dense scrub when off-road. A good-quality Bullbar will absorb most impacts and protect the bits of the car that matter – namely the radiator and cooling system. A good quality Bullbar will also provide a great base from which to attach other essential off-road kit such as winches, light bars, LEDs and antennas. “With the release of modern vehicles, new systems, radar systems and headlight washers, we have had to incorporate these systems into our bars,” Gaven said. “This extends the testing period, as we need to fully complete testing on each of these components as well as the standard tests. We hand make a sample bar from the design and test-fit each product prior to starting the manufacturing process. “The different options available for Frontal Protection Products today are endless, from a bumper over design to a bumper replacement, no loops to three loops, a Winch Bullbar or a simple Nudge Bar to fit extra lighting too. “The options are varied and ultimately up to the individual as to what it is that is important to them. The first question should be, is it ADR approved? This is very important for many reasons. The first being, are you covered (insurance wise) in the event of an accident or collision, if you have a product fitted that is not ‘designed to work’ with the vehicle and has not been tested and approved to the Australian Design Standards then sadly you may not be covered by your insurance company.” Benefits of alloy

With “no compromise in strength or design,” ECB says its alloy bullbars offer a distinct advantage over the same designed steel bullbars. It says alloy products won’t add unnecessary weight to the front end of a vehicle or to the customer’s wallet, and states that alloy ensures its products remain highly corrosion and rust resistant, whilst maintaining vital strength. Other benefits include: • Reduced weight contributes to less wear and tear on the vehicle and engine components. • Suspension upgrades are unlikely to be required. • Increased fuel economy and increased tyre longevity thanks to carrying less overall vehicle weight. • Environmentally friendly as less fuel consumption provides an economically

‘Greener Choice.’ • ECB alloy bullbars and Nudge Bars will not rust or corrode and will remain aesthetically pleasing for years to come. • Avoid visible rust and corrosion which will impact the resale value of a vehicle. ECB’s commitment to the future of Australian Manufacturing and keeping jobs here

East Coast Bullbars has achieved IATF 16949 Certification, which it explains is the highest quality standard recognised by automotive manufacturers. “ECB is pleased to announce we have achieved the globally recognised IATF 16949 certification,” Gaven said. “Credited as the highest international quality standard in the automotive industry, this certification solidifies our commitment to operate at the world’s best standards. “ECB is only one of a handful of companies in Australia to achieve this status and it could not have been possible without the hard work and dedication of our employees implementing it over the past year.” The IATF 16949 standard provides a further set of guidelines above ISO 9001 standards and contains supplemental requirements specific to the automotive industry. These Quality Management Systems (QMS) are a collection of policies, processes, and documented procedures that define the set of internal rules that govern how ECB creates and delivers products throughout its reselling network. “It validates our culture of continuous improvement not only with our products but in creating safer working conditions and eliminating waste that allows us to work safer and more efficiently ensuring you are delivered The World’s Best Alloy Bullbar,” Gaven said. For more from East Coast Bullbars, visit www.ecb.com.au

MULTI-HITCH MIX ‘N‘ MATCH ADAPTER SYSTEM

The system allows you to simply mix and match your adapter to a compatible shank

The Mister Hitches Australia team has developed its Multi-Hitch Mix “N’ Match system to give the user a quick fit adapter towing hitch system allowing for matching a variety of adapters to a compatible shank to give greater height adjustment. The adapters have been designed and tested in Australia and meet the testing requirements of ADR62/02 and AS4177.

All adapter kits are rated at GTW 3500kg, TW 350kg when used with any of the five Mister Hitches compatible shanks. All adapter kits come with two x 16mm hitch pins and clips (double shear rated at 10,000kg), two x 16mm to 19mm shank sleeves to reduce the excessive movement of the hitch on the shank, one x Anti-Rattle grub screw and one x Allen key tool.

The MHMHBM ball mount adapter can be inverted, and the shank can also be inverted without loss of rating integrity. MHMHBM is compatible with Stone Stomper and most brands of Couplings (for example, Do35 etc.) Mister Hitches Australia says it is the first to develop an adjustable Clevis mount hitch and the first in Australia to develop an adjustable Poly Block adapter. It says it should be noted that the adapter kits have been tested with the Mister Hitches genuine 4.5t shanks and the warranty is void if the adapter is used with a non-genuine Mister Hitches shank. For more information, visit www.intertradeholdings.com.au

HEAVY DUTY TOWING PARTS

From Terrain Tamer

Terrain Tamer explains that its range of HeavyDuty Wheel Bearing and combination Swivel Housing Kits have been specifically designed and manufactured for heavy towing vehicles and those operating in extreme conditions. Practical for unforgiving terrain and extreme applications such as mining, the kits are comprised of bearings that have been made in Japan, with a Rockwell hardness rating that is 2.5 points higher than the OE equivalent. Terrain Tamer explains these bearings combine a new forging technique with an upgraded heat treatment procedure to enable a longer service life. The kits also include an innovative new range of Heavy-Duty hub seals which rotate on their own internal surface, without relying on the condition of the shaft and thus eliminating wear on other components. These seals utilise a labyrinth construction to better prevent the loss of oil and lubricating fluids and better protect against the ingress of dirt and other contaminants, making them perfectly suited to harsh, muddy and dusty conditions and ensuring both extended seal and bearing life. As with all Terrain Tamer bearing kits, the HeavyDuty kits also include all required components, such as gaskets, nuts, gear lever seats and bushes, boots, washers etc, and all parts are covered by a 12-month warranty. Terrain Tamer Heavy Duty Bearing Kits are now available for a growing number of Toyota Hilux and Landcruiser models. For more information, visit www.terraintamer.com or call 1300 888 444 to speak to the parts team.

HYUNDAI BULLBARS IN BRISBANE

Allbar Vehicle Products design and manufacture premium quality bullbars available for a range of Hyundai vehicles

The company says it develops bull bars that are designed to last. Allbar Vehicle Products states that “it doesn’t believe in making poor quality products and therefore its range of Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe bars are built for safety and longevity.” Further, Allbar Vehicle Products says its range is perfect for off road use, stating that when you need a sturdy and powerful design to take to the great outdoors, “you can always rely on one from Allbar Vehicle Products.” Allbar Vehicle Products explains that its team uses years of design experience and expertise to manufacture products that will ensure the safety of your vehicle and the passengers within. “We believe in using the highest standard of workmanship each time we produce a new product,” Allbar Vehicle Products Owner, Iqbal Hussein, said. “Our team have a dedication to creating vehicle components that you can always rely on. We use the highest quality materials during production to ensure our products are durable and efficient. “They will provide an optimal standard of protection from the elements on the road as well as from threats like kangaroos and other species that are susceptible to being hit. “If you would like to find out more about the range of Hyundai Tucson and Santa Fe bull bars available for purchase at our store, feel free to get in contact with our friendly team of staff. “We are dedicated to providing an exceptional standard of service for our valued customers, and will be happy to assist you with any questions you have.” For more information, call Allbar Vehicle Products on 07 3279 6422 or visit www.allbars.com.au

NEW BOCAR BULL BARS FOR ISUZU D-MAX

The ultra-robust Bocar Stockade series of Bull Bars has expanded to suit the powerful new 2020 Isuzu D-MAX

Boasting a leading-edge steel body construction with Ø63 mm rounded tubing, Bocar’s latest Bull Bar is said to be tough enough to keep up with the Isuzu D-MAX at work, play, or off-road. Pricing starts at $1,499 without fitting and $1,862 with fitting. “The 2020 Isuzu D-MAX is designed for Australia’s rugged environment. It’s a remarkable vehicle that delivers impressive durability without compromising on safety, style, or comfort,” Aeroklas Australia Head of Customer Experience and Retail Strategy, Matt Logan, said. “We are truly proud to release a Bull Bar to match the calibre of this vehicle.” The Stockade series of Bull Bars are engineered for performance. The steel body is finished with a matt-black powder-coat, a contemporary choice that complements any shade of D-MAX. The Bull Bar, which comes in at 80kg, also features in-built winch compatibility and comes standard with a high-quality three-in-one LED light (indicator, park, and DRL). Additional housing for fog lights is available if required. “We have been innovating in the industry since the 1970s, and we couldn’t be happier with our black steel Bull Bar range,” Matt said. “Bocar stands behind the quality of its products, and that’s why the Stockade Bull Bar range comes with a two-year, 40,000 km warranty.” Bocar says it is dedicated to protecting the safety of its customers. The Bocar Bull Bar to suit 2020 Isuzu D-MAX is Australia Design Rules (ADR) approved, which sets out the national standards for vehicle safety. It’s also airbag compatible for total peace of mind. “Isuzu D-MAX owners are sure to be impressed by the sheer durability of our newest Bull Bar,” Aeroklas Australia General Manager, Greg Kelly, said. “Anyone looking to upgrade their vehicle can purchase genuine Bocar products directly from us via our Aeroklas Fitment Centres or Flexiglass Branches, with one of our authorised resellers or with their local vehicle dealer.” Bocar and its trusted network of resellers and dealers are ready to equip Stockade series Bull Bars on the newest 2020 Isuzu D-MAX. Aeroklas Australia says customers have access to several game-changing customisation options, too, including fog light housing and winch installation. To get an instant quote on Bocar’s Bull Bar to suit 2020 Isuzu D-MAX, visit www.bocar.com.au or reach out via www.bocar.com.au/contact or call 1300 022 200 for more information.

STRIKING THE RIGHT BALANCE

Raw 4x4 explains how to achieve the best suspension set-up for towing

The current pandemic has forced many Australians to holiday at home, which has seen an increase in the number of caravans, campervans, trailers and boats being towed by 4WD vehicles on Australian roads. Raw 4x4 knows that towing changes the dynamic performance of a vehicle in terms of handling and braking performance. It further explains that compromises need to be made to balance the load carrying ability of the vehicle when towing, versus the comfort levels for everyday driving. Setting up a vehicle for the occasional towing of a boat or caravan can result in a harsh and uncomfortable ride, and leads to the vehicle sitting too high; which is why a clear understanding of the load being towed and how often this will occur will assist in putting the best towing package together. Raw 4x4 explains that a clever selection of spring type and damper technology can significantly improve the vehicle’s handling and ride comfort for both the loaded and unloaded conditions. Raw 4x4 states that it has a full range of coil and leaf springs designed with multi stage or progressive rate spring rates at various weight ratings to improve the weight carrying ability of the tow vehicle. To further complement the suspension range, a tiered offering of shock absorbers and struts are matched to the suspension components to improve the ride and handling of the vehicle. For towing, the Powerdown engineering team highly recommends the Raw Nitro Max shock absorber range, that is based on Powerdown’s innovative truck shock absorber technology. It says this design has proven itself over millions of kilometres and with a precision tuned speed sensitive disc valve design, delivers the ultimate amount of control for towing without sacrificing a comfortable ride. For more information, visit www.raw4x4.com.au

CONSUMERS LOOK TO LOCALLY MADE BULLBARS

TUFF Australia has introduced new bullbars with the help of the Auto Innovation Centre

Increasing demand for locally manufactured 4WD accessories has opened-up opportunities for TUFF Australia according to the company’s General Manager, Mark Casey. “The demand for bullbars, side rails and trays has been very strong in the past 12 months and we have bought adjoining properties in order to expand our factory footprint in Toowoomba, Queensland,” Mark said. Research and development has been a major focus for the company that is approaching its twentieth anniversary and new models continue to be launched. The company recently introduced a range of bullbars for the new Nissan D23 MY21 Navara model which was developed with the assistance of the AAAA Auto Innovation Centre (AIC) in Adelaide. “We approached the Nissan product line development a bit differently and relied on scans from the AIC – this was great asset for our engineering team and saved time and money,” Mark said. “TUFF was one of the original backers of the AIC concept and it is marvellous to see the results of this ambitious project and the practical benefits for the whole industry. “There is a significant amount of technology on the front of current vehicles and this presents challenges for Australian manufacturers as they design products to withstand the rigours of our unique conditions while maintaining the technical functions of vehicles such as adaptive cruise control. “The AAAA will no doubt continue to make sure independent manufacturers are not closed-out from making quality accessories for all makes and models. This is critical as OEMs will continue to make closed loop systems so they can only be accessed by their technicians. We can now see the state and federal governments have woken up to the advantages of a local manufacturing base and have provided useful incentives to modernise our factories. “Aside from the advocacy of the AAAA and the encouragement of government, manufacturers will need to take advantage of the opportunities and invest in the future – we see talented people and their development as the best way to secure our path forward and we now have 14 apprentices in our factory. With the shortage of skilled boilermakers and sheet metal workers we have to grow our own. “We have also ordered a state-of-the-art folding press from Japan to process our parts – this will give TUFF added productivity and allow us to do more elements in-house. Everything has to be done as efficiently as possible – there are great opportunities but material and labour increases mean we have to reduce our waste and increase overall productivity at TUFF.” For more information, visit www.tuffaustralia.com.au

TUFF Mechanical Engineers Ary Santony (left) and Ruhaan Kanpurwala (right) with R&D Manager Ty Austin working on TUFF Australia bullbar brackets.

ONE-STOP TOWING SHOP

Allin Towbars says it offers top-grade Australian designed and made towbars and towing accessories

South Australian family owned and operated business Allin Towbars has been in operation for 75 years. The business is currently owned and managed by four sisters, second generation from the Gynell family. As a female and family friendly business with a fun, positive and “can-do” attitude that radiates throughout the organisation, Allin Towbars explains that it employs 29 highly professional staff who aim to provide the best possible products and services. “We manufacture and install a wide range of Australian-designed-and-made towbars and towing / 4WD accessories that suit most makes of vehicles,” Allin Towbars Managing Director, Penni Donato, said. “All of our products are strictly tested and ADRapproved to meet the high standards and protect our customers’ safety. “As one of Australia’s top towbar manufacturers, we produce, supply and fit towbars direct to the automotive trade and to the general public. “In addition to bulk manufacturing, we provide custom fabrication services to cater for your specific towing requirements. “Our towbars can be fitted directly to the car either at our workshop, from mobile installers or by resellers in their workshops. “While we are an ARB and Redarc stockist and installer, we supply and fit rear steps, light protectors, SmartBars, electric brakes, dual-battery systems, weight distribution hitches, towing mirrors and many more caravan and 4WD accessories. “We are a truly reliable one-stop shop that could meet all your towing needs. “We are also proud aftermarket suppliers to the market’s leading car manufacturers. “Allin Towbars is proud to be considered the topof-mind aftermarket product to South Australia’s leading automotive dealerships. “Our unique stainless steel cover plate design is known as the neatest and most compact towbar on the market. “Our attention to customer needs is well praised by clients and has contributed to the steady growth of the business. “We are well known throughout the industry for our complimentary technical advice and support and our return customer dedication is highly valued and welcomed. “A close relationship with the caravan and camping industry allows us to assist both the new and experienced caravan enthusiasts with technical support and towing safety tips. “Renowned for our friendly, efficient and reliable service, Allin Towbars has the expertise to fit your vehicle with a towbar that will last a lifetime: that’s guaranteed with a life-time warranty. “Whether you are looking to mount bike racks, to tow a 6x4 trailer or maybe something more heavy duty such as a boat, horse float or car trailer, Allin Towbars have a solution for you.” For more information, visit www.allintowbars.com.au or call 08 8352 5155.

COOLDRIVE HITCHES A TOW

With Hayman Reese

Hayman Reese towbars are now available at CoolDrive Auto Parts. “Hayman Reese is the most recognisable and respected name in towbars and towing solutions in Australia, with 70 years of experience and the biggest range in the market,” CoolDrive Auto Parts Category Manager, David Heydrich, said. “All of its towbars are designed and engineered in Australia specifically for Australian vehicles, which ensures superior performance and the highest quality.” Headlining the range is Hayman Reese’s Class Four towbar range for heavy duty applications. The Class Four heavy-duty towbars include industry leading features such a 50mm x 50mm square hitch receiver – with complementary weight distribution kits also available – and a removable trailer ball mount with Hayman Reese’s trademarked SmartPin to reduce rattle.

Also available at CoolDrive is the range of Hayman Reese’s X-Bars. With a centre recovery point rated to 8,000 kilograms and outer points to 4,000 kilograms, all X-Bars feature increased thickness side arms, custom-forged 700-grade steel recovery points and tow ball mounts, and high-tensile Australian Standard Grade 10.9 fasteners, making them ideal for off road usage and recovery. All Hayman Reese towbars and X-Bars are tested to industry standards for Static Overload, Durability and Recovery to meet Australian Standards AS/4177 and ADR 62/02 in a NATA accredited laboratory. They also feature the company’s unique twostage surface protection which helps to stop rust and resists fading and flaking to keep the towbars looking newer for longer. The impressive Hayman Reese range available at CoolDrive features products suited for popular manufacturers such as Ford, Holden, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Subaru, Toyota and Volkswagen. For further information, visit www.cooldrive.com.au

REPCO’S TOWING SYSTEMS

The warmer months are approaching and it’s time to start planning those outdoor activities

Whether you’re planning an off-road adventure or weekend escape, it is important to ensure your towing requirements are taken care of. Repco explains that it has partnered with top quality brands in the automotive industry to provide a comprehensive range of towing solutions; from Tag Towbar Kits to Hayman Reese Weight Distribution Systems, and accessories such as coupling locks, tow balls, mirrors, and tow hitches. Weight Distribution Systems are extremely important to maintain a level ride height from your vehicle to the object you are towing. From a caravan to a trailer, boat, or horse float, each set up is different, and it is crucial to select the correct weight distribution system. Factors such as the towball weight of your caravan or boat, the coupling type and drawbar dimensions will influence the system you require. Hayman Reese’s Weight Distribution Systems are available in 258LB: Intermediate, 600LB: Medium Duty and 800LB: Heavy Duty. Repco states the correct set up will ensure your vehicle will steer, ride, and handle as designed, and help to minimise unnecessary wear and tear on your vehicle and caravan. If you need advice, Repco says its highly trained team is ready to help and invites you to visit a store, or shop or browse online. With its comprehensive range, Repco say you’ll be sure to find a solution to meet your towing needs. For more information, visit www.repco.com.au

IRONMAN 4X4 RAID SERIES

A new era of rugged yet sophisticated vehicle protection systems

In ‘one giant leap’ for Ironman-kind, the release of Ironman 4x4’s Raid Series is said to provide a glimpse into the future for vehicle protection systems design in Australia. The initial August 2021 release is targeted to Jeep owners, with designs crafted specifically for Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT models. Ironman 4x4 explains that the sleek yet rugged design is a key feature, and when integrated across all elements, delivers a seamless and stylish total vehicle package while also including all the traditional and modern features and benefits. The Raid Series Full Length Bull Bar, includes airbag compatibility, provision for parking sensors, 3,500kg rated recovery points and high lift jack points, is 9500lb winch compatible, with removable top plate. All of this captured in a stylish single loop design with integrated light bar and spot or flood cube lights. The Raid Series Side Steps showcase a simple and clean twin two-inch tubular design. The bolt in design prevents any hassle of welding or drilling on installation and treadplate ensures easy step and grip. The SRS side airbag compatibility and a textured powder coated finish (consistent with front and rear bar also) deliver on safety and durability. The Raid Series Rear Bar, includes all the same features as the front bar and an option for a spare wheel relocation kit for the Wrangler JL. The Raid Series bars can also be personalised with clear and amber spot or flood cube lights and red flood cube lights (rear bar only). Until the end of September, Ironman 4x4 is offering a limited quantity of discounted total vehicle packages which includes front bar, rear bar and sidesteps plus selection of light options for the Wrangler JL and Gladiator JT. For more information, contact Ironman 4x4 Senior Marketing Manager Robert Knott at Robert.Knott@ironman4x4.com or for sales opportunities, contact Ben Campbell at Ben.Campbell@ironman4x4.com

FIVE COMMON ELECTRIC BRAKE CONTROLLER INSTALLATION MISTAKES

There are a few things that often catch out installers of modern electric brake controllers (EBC)

REDARC says it always recommends referring to the user manual which provides specific installation instructions. This is paramount to follow so that your customer has the best user experience, and most important of all, safest experience when using their brake controller. Brake Signal Pickup

The requirements for a suitable connection of an EBC trigger wire are quite specific. It must provide battery voltage output while the vehicle brakes are applied / 0 volts output while the vehicle brakes are not applied. It must also accept battery voltage when the brake controller manual override is operated and illuminate at least the trailer’s brake lights. Unsecure/Loose Mounting

REDARC says good EBCs, like REDARC’s Tow-Pro range, can be mounted in any orientation. It is important that the EBC is mounted securely as its internal components rely on a solid mount to know how hard the vehicles brakes are applied, so it can vary its output accordingly. Power Supplied Via Relay

EBCs should be powered directly from the battery via a circuit breaker. This is because you want to retain trailer brakes even if the ignition cuts out unexpectedly, also removing power clears the unit’s calibration which results in rough braking until recalibration. Inadequate Wiring or Connectors

Under full braking force, a trailer can draw as much as 25 amps, and as a result poor wiring gauge and/or poor connecters can cause issues. Cheaper components such as blade fuses and crimp terminals are often not up to the task of currents of this magnitude and can deteriorate over time. Dashboard too thick

When choosing a suitable mounting location, it is important to consider the thickness of material the controller will be installed on, as well as what’s hidden underneath. For REDARC’s Tow-Pro range the remote head must be installed in material between 1.25 – 3.75mm thick so that the override button can be depressed correctly. REDARC says the word Tow-Pro has become synonymous with EBC and towing safety, with REDARC continuing to set the benchmark for easy-to-use, safe trailer and towing braking. It states that the REDARC Tow-Pro range has a controller to suit every towing need. REDARC’s Tow-Pro Elite V3 features both inertia-sensing and user-controlled modes, communicated through the illuminated LED dial. It says both the Tow-Pro Elite and Tow-Pro Classic are simple to install and can be seamlessly mounted in a blank switch panel, on the dashboard or centre console. The Tow-Pro range is also compatible with both electric and electric/hydraulic trailer brakes. For more information on the Tow-Pro range, visit www.redarc.com.au

PROTECT YOUR VEHICLE

With new products from ARB

ARB says it is constantly working on expanding the products available in its range. The following vehicle protection products have been recently added to the ARB portfolio. Rear Bar for Jeep Gladiator

ARB invites you to combine functionality, strength and protection with the ARB Rear Bar for the Jeep Gladiator. The ARB Rear Bar can be fitted in conjunction with the OE tow bar or the Hayman Reese tow bar and features two ARB Jack or Hi-Lift jack points and twin chassis-mounted rated recovery points. The Jeep Gladiator ARB Rear Bar starts from $1,365 (Australian East Coast metro). Summit Bar for D-Max X-Terrain

Expanding the range of bull bars to suit the new Isuzu D-MAX, the Summit Bar is now available to suit the X-Terrain model. Featuring fog lights, twin jacking points and provisions for driving lights and UHF aerials, the Summit Bar is a popular choice for 4WDers and is priced from $2,380 (Australian East Coast metro). Rock Sliders for Jeep Gladiator

ARB says its multi-folded chassis mounted Rock Sliders for Jeep Gladiator provide protection to the Gladiator’s side sills. Finished in an Intregrit powder coat, the Rock Sliders match ARB’s entire JT protection range. The JT Rock Sliders are $1,283 (Australian East Coast metro). Also recently released by ARB are the following: • Soft Shackle update: the popular ARB Soft

Shackle has received an update, making it easier and safer to use. Features now include a braided outside shield, a slide lock loop and extra length. The ARB Soft Shackle is $59 (Australian East Coast metro). • Air Locker for Nissan Navara NP300: a front locker for the 2015+ Nissan Navara NP300 is now available. ARB Air Lockers engage instantly and at any speed, meaning you don’t have to lose momentum before tackling an obstacle. The Air Locker is $1,095 (Australian

East Coast metro) • Frontier Tank for Ranger and Everest: ARB says you can travel further with the Frontier Tank for the 2019+ Ford Ranger Raptor and 2015+ Ford

Everest. This 120L tank is a replacement for the 80L OE tank and is the perfect accessory for long-distance tourers. The Frontier Tank for the Ranger Raptor and Everest is $1,235 (Australian East Coast metro). For more information, visit www.arb.com.au

BRINK EUROPEAN TOWBARS

Thanks to a partnership with TAG Towbar, Brink products are now available locally

Brink says its name has been synonymous with towbar expertise for over a hundred years. Thanks to its core values of innovation, ease of use and safety, Brink says it has become a global market leader in designing, testing and manufacturing European detachable style towbars in addition to a wide range of vehicle specific wiring kits. Thanks to a partnership with Australian towbar manufacturer TAG Towbar, the Brink product range is now available for the local market through its national towbar installer and distribution network. Brink says its sleek, precision-fit detachable towbars set the benchmark for quality as they are designed and manufactured in European OE manufacturing facilities for the aftermarket. It says because of this, vehicle dealerships and customers alike trust Brink as an affordable, alternative towing solution. The most popular Brink product is easily the Vertical Detach style, as it becomes completely invisible after use. When not towing, you can take out the ball and store it in the boot of the car. With most towbars, you can also fold away the socket plate behind the bumper. Depending on the vehicle, there is also the diagonal detaching style towbar or the fixed (swan neck) towbar. All styles have an electro-coated premium finish, the perfect match for luxury European-make SUVs. Brink towbars are designed and tested to meet R55 (UN/ECE) requirements which are equivalent to ADR 62/02 under ISO 1176:1990 and ISO 7237:1993. TAG is a proudly Australian owned company, manufacturing towbars and towing accessories for over 35 years. TAG offers a range of towbar styles, including Standard (Class 2) and Heavy-Duty (Class 4) applications, galvanised rear steps and a comprehensive plug-n-play wiring range. To complement its towbar products, TAG offers an extensive range of high-quality towing accessories.

KEEP YOUR COOL WHEN TOWING

Whether it’s a trailer, boat, caravan or camper, hauling that extra weight behind your vehicle means the engine has to work harder

Typically, factory-fitted cooling systems will need some extra help to cope with the increased heat generated when the engine and transmission are under load. The payload and frequency of towing will dictate how much you need to upgrade your vehicle’s cooling system. Another important factor is the operating environment. Hilly terrain or surfaces such as dirt, sand and mud will require slower travelling speeds which reduces air flow. Adrad has the following advice on options for enhancing cooling performance that can be applied in isolation or combinations to suit your needs. Coolant

Adrad says while it may seem odd, a less expensive coolant can deliver increased cooling. Testing shows that Adrad corrosion inhibitor coolant can transfer heat up to 40 percent more effectively than a traditional 50 percent glycol coolant. The high water content of corrosion inhibitor makes it thermally more efficient, however this practice is not suitable for sub-zero environments. Adrad’s Australian made corrosion inhibitor coolants are available in traditional and organic formulations. Radiator and Intercooler

Depending on the age and service history of the vehicle, a new OE quality radiator or intercooler may be enough to manage infrequent or light towing duties. Upgrades can range from heavy duty radiators with extra rows up to custom high performance alloy radiators and intercoolers for optimum cooling. Adrad says it has a wealth of experience in this area (along with Australia’s largest selection of radiators) and can provide you with great advice. Transmission Cooler

An auxiliary transmission oil cooler may often be fitted as part of a “towing pack.” Adrad says this indicates that the standard oil cooler is unlikely to cope with heavy work and upgrading this oil cooler will improve performance. Adrad offers the Dana Tru-Cool range of universal oil coolers which feature several sizes and performance options. Fan

More air flow means better cooling. Adrad offers a selection of high performance fans from Spal and Maradyne that are designed for long life, durability and harsh environments. 50mm Square Hitch Tow Ball Mounts, Pintle Hooks, Anti-Rattle Pins, Zinc Tow Balls, Weight Distribution Hitches, Plug Adapters, and more are available to complete any towing setup. For more information, visit www.brinktag.com.au and www.tagtowbars.com.au

The fan motor is encased in a fully-sealed housing that is 100 percent dust and waterproof. Adrad says their high-quality engineering and construction deliver proven performance to exceptional levels on the road, the race track and even in extreme offroad conditions. These products are all available across Australia and are supported by Adrad’s national warranty and distribution network. To find your nearest stockist, please contact Adrad on 1800 882 043 or enquire at customerservice@adrad.com.au