Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - Annual Performance Guide 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

2021 ANNUAL PERFORMANCE GUIDE

AAAA CONTINUES SUPPORT OF PERFORMANCE INDUSTRY VIA AIC

PETRONAS: RACING TO IMPROVE THE BREED

HERROD PERFORMANCE - PERFORMANCE MASTERMIND LEADS THE WAY

ABOUT THE COVER Garrett’s highly-engineered portfolio is rooted in more than 60-years of pioneering turbocharging systems with its innovations enabling its customers to set new benchmarks in vehicle performance.

KEEPING YOU INFORMED AAAA continues support of performance industry via AIC................................................. 4 Repco Mt Panorama 500 set to rev up .......................................................................... 4 Summernats kicks 2021 off with a bang........................................................................ 5 Australian Motorsport Council launched......................................................................... 5

4

PERFORMANCE PRODUCTS Engine & Performance................................................................................................ 10 Producing horsepower at the right price Brake & Clutch.......................................................................................................... 18 Performance stopping power and launch control Suspension & Handling............................................................................................... 24 Improving your ride with upgrade parts

28

PERFORMANCE FEATURES Cover Feature ............................................................................................................. 6 Garrett: a turn ahead of the competition Product R&D............................................................................................................... 8 Phantom: the solution for late model EFI engine swaps Member Feature ........................................................................................................ 16 Petronas: racing to improve the breed Trade Talk................................................................................................................ 28 Herrod Performance: Performance mastermind leads the way

36

Members in Motorsport............................................................................................... 30

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.

NEWS

AAAA CONTINUES SUPPORT OF PERFORMANCE INDUSTRY VIA AIC Australian automotive performance companies have successfully used the Centre to develop product in its first 12 months and the opening of the South Australian facility bodes well for 2021 and beyond The AAAA continues to support the performance industry through its Auto Innovation Centre (AIC).

The AIC dedicates a portion of its fleet and resources to supporting the performance industry.

The AIC fleet currently has three performance cars – a Ford Mustang 5.0 Manual, Toyota GR Supra and a Toyota GR Yaris.

These vehicles are targeted for the development of performance accessories such as clutches, suspension, brakes, and power increases.

The AIC conducts teardown measurement and scanning activities on these vehicles as well as making them available for testing.

The AIC has customers and champion partners with a strong performance focus and is dedicated to supporting them.

Dynamic vehicle performance testing is a specialty of the AIC and can cater for unique customer requirements and support the development of customised testing protocols also.

The AIC recently celebrated its first anniversary.

Before opening, AIC management undertook indepth industry consultation to ensure it launched with the best possible service offering at the time, which it has further developed and evolved over the ensuing 12 months.

Plenty of opportunities have also presented themselves, many in the performance sector.

For example, the AIC carried out a customised test program for Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) for the company’s composite disc brake rotor for high performance applications.

The AIC’s Ford Mustang was utilised and data measuring and logging equipment was fitted with the DBA prototype brake components, and AIC staff conducted a series of tests at Sandown Raceway to put the components through their paces.

The AIC is excited that it will launch its South Australian facility in the first quarter of 2021, which will be located in Edinburgh Parks alongside Brabham Automotive and will certainly have a big impact on the performance industry.

For more about the AIC, visit www.autoic.com.au

REPCO MT PANORAMA 500 SET TO REV UP Repco has officially taken naming rights of the 2021 season-opening Supercars event in Bathurst The 2021 Repco Supercars Championship will commence with the Repco Mt Panorama 500 across 26-28 February.

It will be the first of two visits to the iconic Mount Panorama Circuit, the spiritual home of Australian motorsport.

The second event will be the inaugural Repco Bathurst 1000 in October.

Repco Head of Sponsorship, Mitch Wiley, said his team were looking forward to further integrating with the sport.

“Like all race fans, the crew at Repco are

4

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

counting down the days to the season opener at Mount Panorama,” Mitch said.

“We are thrilled to be able to throw further support behind the sport we love and cannot wait to be amongst the fans during the 2021 season.”

Repco says its brand has been synonymous with Australian and New Zealand racing since the 1950s.

While Repco’s most famous partnership was with Sir Jack Brabham, Denny Hulme and the Brabham racing team, which saw wins at the Formula One World Championships in 1966 and 1967, the brand has an extensive heritage in motorsport.

In the 1970s, Repco developed and built the F5000 engine for Formula 5000 racing, which won races in the Australian Grand Prix, the New Zealand Grand Prix, the Australian Driver’s Championship and the Australian Sports Car Championship.

More recently Repco supported DJR Team Penske, and celebrated Scott McLaughlin’s Supercars Driver’s Championships in 2018, 2019 and 2020.

Over the next five years, Supercars and Repco will work collaboratively to roll out an extensive marketing and activation campaign, which will focus on delivering engagement with motoring enthusiasts and Supercars fans across Australia and New Zealand.

Repco says its commitment to motorsport, and most notably the Repco Supercars Championship, is a logical extension of its commitment and ongoing support of local auto enthusiasts.

Repco has a network of 400 automotive parts and accessories branches across Australia and New Zealand, and for almost 100 years it says it has supported those who love cars the most – the mechanics who keep Australia and New Zealand running, and the auto enthusiasts who can’t get enough time with their cars.

For more from Repco, visit www.repco.com.au

NEWS

SUMMERNATS KICKS 2021 OFF WITH A BANG January’s Summernats Slam was held at Sydney Dragway Despite concerns surrounding the continual COVID-19 developments in Sydney, Summernats reports the event was a raging success across all metrics.

More than 11,000 people came through the gates over January 8-10 while 400 entrants and 13 trade and exhibitor booths reportedly created an amazing festival atmosphere.

The Summernats Slam event stayed true to the core of Summernats, with skid row, burnouts, motorkhana, a show and shine and awards in the program.

The introduction of the Garrett Advancing Motion Drag Day also finally brought drag racing to Summernats, and drew an outstanding list of fast cars running very fast times on Sydney Dragway’s brand new track.

Highlights from Summernats Slam saw Jess Johnson in his 1985 Holden VK KILLA-K winning the Burnout Competition to take away over $10,000 in prize money; an outstanding array of Show ‘n’ Shine entrants with the most exclusive Top 10 finalists Sydney has ever seen; and finally, Mark Hinchelwood taking out the title of the fastest car on the Garrett Advancing Motion Drag Day in the ACDELCO 2006 Holden Monaro, running 5.899 seconds.

After the Slam event, Summernats and the Perth Motorplex worked together to introduce the best Motorvation event “Western Australia has ever seen.”

Held from the 15th to the 17th of January, Motorvation 35 saw cruising, eighth mile racing, entertainment, a show ‘n’ shine, elite marquee, trader alley, sound off, unveils, slalom and go to whoa, a mullet competition and a burnout competition.

Another exciting element of Motorvation 35 saw three Burnout Masters Qualifying Tickets given to the top place getters from the Burnout Pro Competition as well as opportunities for entrants to be awarded a qualification position in the Meguiar’s Superstars Pavilion at MotorEx in November 2021.

Highlights from Motorvation saw Dayne Bairstow in his 1993 Ford XG winning the Burnout Sportsman Competition; Kevin Mantach in his 1984 Holden One Tonner winning the Burnout Open Competition; and winning first place and $5,000 in prize money for the Burnout Pro Competition was Wayne Daw in his 1986 Toyota Hilux LN65 SLYLUX. The Summernats, Sydney Dragway and Perth Motorplex teams report they are extremely happy with the Slam and Motorvation events with “a great turnout of spectators and entrants who had a fabulous time, all while following the COVID requirements.”

Event organisers say they look forward to incorporating Summernats Slam and Motorvation as permanent events in the annual schedule in the future.

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

AUSTRALIAN MOTORSPORT COUNCIL LAUNCHED United national advocacy voice established for two-wheel and four-wheel motorsport Australia’s peak national regulatory bodies across the four key motorsport disciplines – automobile, motorcycle, kart and drag racing – have announced they have joined forces to form the Australian Motorsport Council (“AMC”).

In a first for Australian motorsport, the sole Australian two-wheel and four-wheel sanctioning and organising bodies recognised by the Global Association of International Sports Federations – the Federation Internationale de ‘l Automobile (FIA) and the Federation Internationale de Motocyclisme (FIM) – have committed to work collectively to provide leadership and advocacy to Australian governments and motorsport stakeholders on key motorsport issues that are of mutual concern.

The role of the AMC will be to provide industry wide leadership and advocacy through a national voice for motorsport. Motorsport Australia, Motorcycling Australia, Karting Australia and the Australian National Drag Racing Association (ANDRA) make up the foundation membership of the AMC. The Chief Executives of the foundation members will make up the Board, with Australian Motorsport Hall of Fame Legend and five-time MOTO Grand

Prix World Champion Mick Doohan AM to Chair the AMC. The foundation AMC members – all not-forprofit, membership-based organisations – have a combined history of almost 260 years and currently control, regulate, supervise, promote, licence, permit, insure, develop and manage the overwhelming majority of motorsport in Australia.

Together the AMC members represent over 1000 affiliated Motorsport Clubs, 460 Licenced Racetracks and more than 335,000 active participants including 60,000 licence holders and 18,000 trained Officials across all Australian states and territories.

The Board has plans to meet with all State and Territory governments in the first months of 2021.

Objectives of the Australian Motorsport Council • Identify and address issues that impact the interests of the member bodies; • Provide a credible united voice and effective advocacy for Australian motorsport, to benefit competitors, officials, venue owners and event organisers; • Represent the interests of the member bodies

and their stakeholders to governments and other concerned bodies; • Continue to develop and grow motorsport beyond the existing levels of participation; • Unify the resources and passion of the member bodies to harness the economic, political and social significance of motorsport; • Ensure that motorsport in Australia is always conducted in accordance with the highest standards of rules, policies and procedures with integrity and in the safest and fairest possible way; • Advocate for all levels of motorsport to be conducted with the highest levels of governance; • Improve and promote the safety and innovative developments directly attributable to motorsport.

For more information, visit www.motorsport.org.au/amc Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

5

COVER FEATURE

GARRETT: A TURN AHEAD OF THE COMPETITION The performance powerhouse has plenty going on as it looks forward to a promising 2021 The Garrett name ties back to turbo origins in the 1950s. At that time, entrepreneur and engineer Cliff Garrett led a project team to develop a turbocharger for a Caterpillar D9 crawler tractor, marking the beginning of the turbocharged era for the automotive industry.

Garrett technologies and innovations have been used by nearly every major global auto maker, resulting in approximately 100 million vehicles with its products and an average launch rate of 100 new applications annually spanning, gas, diesel, natural gas, electric and fuel cell powertrains.

Today, Garrett’s highly-engineered portfolio is rooted in more than 60-years of pioneering turbocharging systems with its innovations enabling its customers to set new benchmarks in vehicle performance while addressing evolving fuel efficiency and exhaust emissions regulations.

GARRETT G SERIES TURBOCHARGER RANGE EXTENDED Garrett has recently extended its G30-G35 G Series Turbine Housing range, releasing further additional turbine housings for the G30 and G35 range of turbochargers to include the T3 inlet flange and V band outlet.

This expansion ensures more options are offered for the fitment and replacement of turbos.

Garrett explains that all of its Garrett turbochargers and turbine housings have passed a stringent quality design and testing to pass the highest standard in burst containment.

“This means in the event of a catastrophic failure, all the internal parts of the turbocharger stay contained in the turbocharger,” Garrett Advancing Motion Pacific General Manager, Aftermarket, Paul Carlsson, explained.

6

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

“This gives the performance vehicle driver peace of mind knowing that even with the turbocharger spinning at 200,000 rpm and vehicle speed at over 200km/h while suffering from a blown turbocharger, they will not have 800⁰C+ parts flying through the engine bay and/or externally to the car where they could cut fuel lines, or even worse, cause injury to the driver or spectators.”

“Garrett G57 turbochargers are engineered for extreme horsepower applications like Radial vs The World and X275 Drag Racing,” Paul said.

GARRETT G57 SUPER CORES AND STAINLESS STEEL V-BAND TURBINE HOUSINGS RELEASED

The newly engineered turbine wheel with optimised G Series aerodynamics reportedly increases flow up to 28 percent (Compared to GTX Gen II).

Garrett explains that its G series turbochargers feature the latest innovations in turbocharger technology.

The large 90 trim turbine stage measures 118mm at the inducer and 112mm at the exducer.

Advanced compressor and turbine aero offer a range of high horsepower performance boosting solutions for 3.0L - 12.0L engine platforms while 88mm, 94mm, 98mm, 102mm and 106mm compressor inducer sizes produce up to 3000 horsepower for today’s top drag race teams.

Centre Housing

“A new high-flowing inconel turbine wheel and a one-piece aluminium centre housing set the G57 apart from its predecessor.”

Turbine Wheel

The G57 is offered with three stainless steel V-band turbine housings in 1.09 A/R, 1.25 A/R, and 1.41 A/R. The one-piece aluminium centre housing reduces supercore weight, explains Garrett.

COVER FEATURE

G30-G35 T3 stainless steel housing

The centre housing is air cooled and features a 16mm dual ceramic ball bearing for premium rotor dynamics, and retains the oil inlet and outlet specifications from previous GTX designs.

Compressor Stage Garrett G57 compressor stages are offered in 88mm, 94mm, 98mm, 102mm, and 106mm inducer sizes each with their own horsepower ratings indicated in the model name.

Key Features: • Supports up to 3000 horsepower • 88mm, 94mm, 98mm, 102mm, 106mm compressor options • 118mm inducer turbine wheel • 28 percent more turbine flow (compared to GTX)

G57-3000 Turbocharger

• • • •

One-piece aluminium centre housing 16mm dual ceramic ball bearing cartridge Outline interchangeable with GTX Gen II turbos Super core and turbine kit sold individually

NEW PERFOMRANCE / TRAINING CENTRE LAUNCHED In addition to extensions to its product portfolio, Garrett has also been busy advancing its service delivery capabilities with the launch of a new, mobile, Performance and Training Centre.

The newly designed and customised trailer will mean Garrett can attend as many of Australia’s motorsport events as possible at just a moment’s notice.

“We took our time with the design and building of the trailer to make sure that everything was thought of,” Paul said.

“It was great to have it done while COVID-19 restrictions were in place, as we didn’t have to miss out on not using the customised trailer at any events.

“The trailer will be a great asset for not only attending performance shows but also in conducting our Installer Connect training in regional areas where we can just set up at any location and be able to deliver onsite training.

“Coupled to the trailer we have our customised PX3 Ford Ranger that will be used for constant testing of our soon to be released PowerMax Turbo upgrade and back to back testing of intercoolers against the Garrett direct drop in replacement.”

For more information, visit www.garrettmotion.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

7

PRODUCT R&D

PHANTOM: THE SOLUTION FOR LATE MODEL EFI ENGINE SWAPS Aeromotive Fuel Systems have released a new range of in-tank system kits for late model EFI engine swaps, which are available in Australia from Rocket Industries The hottest trend in hot rods and muscle cars today is late model EFI engine swaps and aftermarket EFI systems.

It is no secret why either; you can make ridiculous power and do it more affordably than ever.

What makes these conversions so affordable is the ample supply of parts and kits from the aftermarket. But until now, the fuel system has been a costly and time-consuming upgrade.

Block mount pumps are not an option on today’s engines. Carburetted pumps are not going to work with EFI and the tanks in these cars are not designed for EFI pumps.

So, what do you do? Go to a fuel cell? Weld in a big sump on your tank? Fabricate a custom tank?

While all of these are options that will work, they can be very expensive, require a lot of work and may just not be what you want.

This is where Aeromotive says it comes in, stating it has completely changed the game again with its newest addition to the Stealth Fuel System line-up.

The Phantom Fuel System is a complete kit that gives you everything you need to install a fuel pump and baffle/basket into almost any fuel tank.

8

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Aeromotive explains it is like putting the fuel system from a new Commodore into your muscle car or street rod.

You can choose from two different pump options, an in-tank 340 Stealth Fuel Pump capable of up 800hp EFI or a smaller Stealth 200 Fuel

PRODUCT R&D your engine needs. And it means no more welding sumps, no more noisy fuel pumps or fuel cells taking up your trunk space.

Aeromotive says the Phantom Fuel System in virtually invisible and whisper quiet, offering “serious performance you’ll never know is there.”

Key features and specifications: Phantom 340 Stealth Fuel System (Part No. ARO18688) • 340 lph Stealth Fuel Pump • Supports up to 700hp EFI forced air induction; 825hp EFI naturally aspirated; 900hp Carburetted forced air induction; 1000hp Carburetted naturally aspirated.

Phantom 200 Stealth Fuel System (Part No. ARO18689) • 200 lph Stealth Fuel Pump • Supports up to 425hp EFI forced air induction; 550hp EFI naturally aspirated; 550hp Carburetted forced air induction; 750hp Carburetted naturally aspirated.

Both kits include: • Black anodized hanger assembly • Three ORB-06 Ports – Supply, Return, Vent • Fuel resistant baffle/basket (includes foam and bladder) • Universal high flow pre-pump filter • Modular design can be cut to height to fit almost any fuel tank • EFI or Carburetted • Turbine pump mechanism increases durability • Must be used with a return style system • In-tank use only For more on the products available from Rocket Industries, visit www.rocketindustries.com.au

Pump capable of supporting up 550hp EFI. Both options can handle serious power even at supercharged or tubrocharged EFI pressures.

cavitation and vapor lock because the pump is constantly submerged, taking advantage of a column height of fuel on the inlet of the pump.

With the Phantom Systems you also get a black anodized hanger assembly and an internal baffle to control fuel slosh and keep the fuel pump submerged.

And it states that because of the innovative baffle or basket, you can control fuel slosh keeping fuel at the pickup point (the pump) at all times; even with low fuel levels and in extreme driving conditions.

Aeromotive says the best part is that this entire system is modular. It can be cut to height to fit almost any tank including your stock tank and even tanks as shallow as 6” deep.

Why is in-tank better?

Aeromotive asks you to think about when the last time was that you saw a vehicle come from the OE with an externally mounted fuel pump.

It says that by putting the pump in the tank, you virtually eliminate hot fuel handling issues like

So, whether you are restoring a muscle car, building a street rod, or prepping a pro-touring machine, Aeromotive says the Phantom fuel system might just be the option for you.

EFI or carburetted, this system can go either way and allows you to switch to one or the other down the road with nothing more than a regulator swap.

You can use your factory tank or a reproduction to keep that stock look and to keep cost down, but still get the performance you demand and

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 February 2021

9

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

LSM RACING PRODUCTS Available from Outlaw Speed Shop Outlaw Speed Shop says it likes to be associated with manufacturers of high-quality products and states LSM Racing Products is one such company, producing a range of quality tools for racers and engine builders.

LSM’s very first product was a valve spring compressor for small block Chevs using a shaft type roller rocker assembly.

Other products followed due to listening to fellow racers and developing a line of valve train management tools for various head and rocker systems.

Outlaw Speed Shop says that LSM’s valve spring compressors are the standard in the industry for racers who need to change high performance valve springs.

In addition to LSM’s spring compressor line, there was a need among racers for a precision tool that would measure valve springs while still on the head.

It says the PC-100 is the best value precision spring tester on the market, and states that this is proven by the loyal racers who swear by its

performance. It is adjustable to fit most head and rocker systems in use in the high-performance racing market today.

Outlaw Speed Shop provides LSM tools to customers who utilise them while working on their race vehicles at the track between races or in their workshops, including the “leading” Spring remover for GM LS1-LS9 motors (LSM-SC-167), Spring tester (on-head) (LSM-PC-100), Valve spring compressor (heads off) (LSM-SC-2000), Valve Lash adjusting tool (LSM-TC-100-3) and Bench Top Springs Tester (LSM-SC-1000) as well as new additions, the Rod Vice double stacker which can hold four rods at a time (LSM-RV-100), On Car spring compressor for late model hemi 2003 –up (LSM-SC-300/350) and the Dial indicator assembly for SM-1000 spring tester (LSM-SC-050-SET).

LSM Racing Products’ range is said to be a valued addition to Outlaw Speed Shop’s product range, covering nearly 80,000 different parts and 450 trusted brand names. Outlaw Speed Shop says it keeps a broad range of LSM tools in stock ready for purchase.

Outlaw Speed Shop is a Capricorn preferred supplier and is located in suburban Adelaide at 50 Grand Junction Road in Rosewater.

For more information, visit www.outlawspeed.com.au or contact 08 8240 9500 or sales@outlawspeed.com.au

SWAN IGNITION COILS Providing a performance boost Last year’s pandemic did not stop SWAN Ignition Coils from expanding its ignition coil catalogue, with the company adding some new performance vehicle coils to its range.

As part of the new range, part number IC517 runs the 2018 Hyundai i30 N Performance variant.

The i30 N has a 2.0L turbocharged i4 engine that puts out 202kW of power and 378Nm of torque (on overboost).

Part number IC492 runs the 2015 Toyota 86, which uses a 2.0L Subaru Flat 4 engine (without a turbo), that puts out 147kW of power and 205Nm of torque. This car is popular with Toyota car modification enthusiasts.

Part number IC274 runs Toyota’s performance version vehicles that use the 3.0L twin turbo 2JZGTE engine, as found in the fourth generation Supra made popular by the Fast & Furious movies.

The engine boasts 206kW of power and 432Nm of torque for the Japanese market, while power in the overseas version was increased to 239kW and 441Nm (VVT engine 451Nm).

Part number IC70806A is an upgraded performance coil for Holden vehicles running the 10

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

LS3 engine, the coil is originally found in the Corvette LS7 engine. The LS3 outputs 317kW of power and 575Nm torque (HSV variants were upgraded to produce 325kW), while the LS7 produces 375kW of power and 640Nm of torque.

The advantage the LS7 performance coil has over the stock standard LS3 coil (can also replace the LS2 coil) is a bigger spark that improves power and acceleration.

Higher voltage allows for a larger spark plug gap that delivers a larger spark, resulting in a stronger initial combustion, it also bridges the spark plug gap faster.

While higher voltage helps improve performance, it is not the only reliance, more so the key is to maintain voltage under load. So importantly performance ignition coils need to function consistently, maintaining voltage throughout the acceleration range.

This is achieved by the internal construction of the coil by way of heavy gauge windings and more windings per coil.

SWAN Ignition Coils says this new release of performance coils has been made possible by its ever-increasing brand awareness and customer

confidence in its quality; as such its customer base ranges from public to trade and reseller.

SWAN Ignition Coils says resellers can also benefit from its launch last year onto AutoInfo’s online catalogue Oscar, where resellers can purchase its coils along with brake pads and fuel pumps/modules. Coinciding with the AutoInfo launch, the company has also expanded its coils into the New Zealand market.

Trade and public customers can also buy direct via www.acaparts.com.au. Later this year, SWAN Ignition Coils will also be launching a new sales site, so it says you should keep a lookout for www.swancoils.com.au For more information, visit www.acaparts.com.au

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

NEW NULON RACING OIL RELEASED Nulon says Australian technology has produced an industry-leading performance oil Using the most advanced technology available to the lubricant sector, Nulon says it has created an industry-leading Racing Oil to protect a wide range of modern and high-horsepower engines right here in Australia.

By combining a unique blend of Group 5 base stock with the best anti-wear additive package money can buy, Nulon has produced a full synthetic lubricant that does not break down under extreme loads.

Nulon says a primary concern when developing this racing oil was the dilution effects of water often found when running ethanol and methanolbased fuels.

“Customers are pushing their engines further and further these days, and with the introduction of ethanol-based fuels in the motorsport and tuning industries, we had to create an oil that would not only protect these engines but improve the longevity and performance of the lubrication,” Nulon Products’ Christopher Dawe said.

Nulon says customers were reporting that they

were having to change their oils more frequently due to water contamination when running performance fuels and explains that Nulon Racing Oil protects against this contamination while maintaining a stable viscosity which protects engines over an extended drain interval.

Nulon Racing Oils are said to have a proven track record in Repco Supercars with KRE Race Engines making the switch in 2018 and reporting a noticeable reduction in engine wear and more stable oil pressure across the race event. Nulon says this has been replicated in top tier motorsport series across Australia and New Zealand.

To support its racing oil program, Nulon has introduced to the public an oil testing program, something typically reserved for motorsport teams.

Customers can simply purchase a test kit from Nulon’s website and send their oil sample to a testing lab via pre-paid postage, receiving a complete rundown on how their fluids are performing.

Nulon says this provides a better understanding of what protection their oil is providing their engine.

As part of the service, they will also receive a oneon-one consultation with a Nulon technical expert to give them recommendations on lubrication options and general engine health.

For more information on Nulon’s Racing Oils go to www.nulon.com.au/products/race-oils To order an oil test kit, visit www.engineoiltest.com.au

MVP RANGE LAUNCHES Premier Auto Trade has launched a new brand To complement the Raceworks range of Air and Fluid Management Components, Premier Auto Trade (PAT) has launched a second performance products brand, Motorsport Vehicle Preparation (MVP).

The MVP range features an exciting collection of new products, concentrating on categories such as Thermal Management, Electrical, Safety, Race Car Preparation and Fabrication.

PAT explains that all MVP high performance products have been manufactured from high quality materials to ensure the highest specifications and come with the same “industry leading” two-year warranty as Raceworks.

Thermal Management contains various products for managing heat and providing a thermal barrier such as Turbo Beanies, Exhaust Header Wrap and Gold Reflective Sheeting or Tape. Turbo beanies are suitable for extreme duty applications and are available in a range of sizes to suit both standard and reverse rotation Turbochargers.

The Electrical category includes Battery Master Switches with Remote Release cables for racing applications. Automotive Firewall Rubber

Grommets in both straight and 90-degree, Tinned Crimp Splice Terminals, and Expandable Braided Sleeving with Raychem DR25 Heatshrink are available to complete the job.

The Safety range consists of SFI and FIA approved Race Harnesses. Available in four, five and six point, they are available in either Latch and Link or Cam Lock configurations, and bolt-in ends or snap-hook ends.

Black metal hardware or silver metal hardware is available, and belts are stocked in either Black or Yellow. PAT says other colours can be specially ordered, resulting in the largest range of Race Harnesses in Australia.

Complementing the range of harnesses are Window Nets in various styles with fitting kits, and Tow Hooks available in 12 colours.

Race Car Preparation items include Steering

Wheels containing genuine black leather or genuine black suede. Available in a Flat or Dished design, with various stitching colours available, a range of 16 wheels is on offer with more stitching options available on special order.

Universal Seat Mounts are also available, in Carbon Steel (FIA Approved), Mild Steel or Aluminium, with three different heights. CAMS Approved Decals complement the range with Sticker Sheet Assortments and Numbers in Black or Day Glo. The Fabrication offering consists of Carbon Fibre Sheet available in one, two or three mm, commonly used for dash panels, and door cards.

The full range of MVP and Premier Auto Trade Racing and Performance Products are available via a network of Specialised Resellers and Authorised Dealers.

For more information including where to find your local stockist, visit www.patrap.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

13

ENGINE & PERFORMANCE

XS BY XSPURT From Injectors Online After two years and over 3,000 hours of product development, coupled with a combined 45 years of performance fuel injector experience, XS Injectors by Xspurt have been launched to the Australian performance car market.

Injectors Online says XS Injectors are “simply the world’s most accurate injector sets,” stating that “not only do XS Injectors deliver industry leading consistency with each injector set exactly matched to tolerances of just one percent in flow rate and two percent in deadtime but the level of testing each injector and set undergo has never been seen before.”

XS Injector’s dynamic flow matching process reportedly records over 6,500 flow testing points and each injector endures almost 300,000 individual measurements for flow, temperature, pressure, and voltage.

Injectors Online has been marketing the Xspurt range of performance injectors for over ten years, stating that the launch of XS by Xspurt has revolutionised the market.

“It’s been a long and intense process, but we could not be more happy with the end result of our XS Injectors,” said Injectors Online Managing Director, Simon Richards, said.

“The ‘Exact Match’ process genuinely produces injector set matching that’s not been seen before, either here in Australia or overseas. For performance tuners and car owners that are looking for the best fuel control and tunability, there is now a much better choice for injectors.

“We have even gone to the next level with access to the individualised tuning data and test results. These are now stored on the cloud and can be downloaded by tuners in a matter of seconds.”

The XS Injectors are backed by a “industry first” lifetime warranty with “no red tape, no questions asked.”

XS Injectors are available for all popular performance and regularly modified engines such as Ford Barra, Boss and Coyote, Holden V6 and LS, Mitsubishi Evo 1-X, Nissan, RB25, RB26 and VR38, Subaru WRX and Toyota 1JZ, 2JZ and 86 in sizes from 710cc to 1500cc.

For more information, please visit www.xsinjectors.com 14

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

PERFORMANCE PARTS COVERED American Speed and AERO Australia have a large range of aftermarket performance parts available When it comes to performance parts, American Speed and AERO Australia say they have got you covered from superchargers to headers, exhaust systems, and ceramic coatings through to modified springs and replacement wheels.

Fred Solazzo, the owner of American Speed in Moorabbin (Victoria) has been importing premium quality performance automotive brands into Australia for over 45 years.

American Speed is a Factory Authorised Australian Distributor for the following brands: • ARH American Racing Headers • Edelbrock Superchargers • aFe Cold Air Intakes and Exhausts • Borla Exhausts and Mufflers • INJEN Cold Air Intakes • AERO Premium Car Care Products and Ceramic Coatings • Vogtland Sports Suspension • KOOKs Headers and Exhausts • AIRLIFT Suspension • QA1 Suspension and Driveshafts • VOSSEN Wheels • Project 6GR Wheels American Speed says additional new products are also set to be released throughout 2021.

The business supplies products Australia wide and into New Zealand from its two Melbourne based warehouses.

Fred told us that for 2021, American Speed is moving towards assisting and supplying the Tuning Shops with brands such Injen Cold Air Intakes, Edelbrock Supercharger kits, aFe and ARH Headers.

American Speed says the German Vogtland Sport Spring kits and associated Coilover kits as well as Airlift and QA1 will also reportedly become a key focus for the Performance Suspension Workshops.

High performance for all aspects of your vehicle The sister business of American Speed, AERO Australia, has also been appointed as the Australian Distributor of a USA made Premium Car Care and Ceramic Coating brand, known as International AERO. The USA-based International AERO has been manufacturing premium quality Car Care products and Ceramic Coatings for many years and AERO Australia says it is the go-to product brand for major companies such as Gulfstream Jets and Bombardier, just to name a few.

In the USA, the AERO automotive product range is also used by a “huge” number of top end hot rod and custom car builders as well as premium car detailers who have been AERO Certified.

The AERO range covers everything from AERO cutting and polishing compounds, AERO exterior cleaners and polishes, AERO interior cleaners and protectants as well what AERO Australia calls “the world’s highest quality Ceramic Coatings” such as Diamond Shield, which has a true 10H rating; as well as specially formulated Ceramic Coatings for glass, wheels, brake callipers and bright metal. AERO also has its own range of buffing and polishing pads.

For information on American Speed’s performance aftermarket brands, contact American Speed via the online contact form at www.americanspeed.com.au or contact sales@americanspeed.com.au or 03 9553 6915.

For information about the AERO Premium Car Care range, visit www.aeroaustralia.com.au or contact sales@aeroaustralia.com.au or 03 9553 6915.

MEMBER FEATURE

PETRONAS: RACING TO IMPROVE THE BREED PETRONAS is growing its Australian market share by offering world-class products that have successfully powered world champions, the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team PETRONAS Lubricants has been gradually expanding its network of distributors in Australia over the past few years.

In 2008, PETRONAS acquired the Italian fluids and lubricants company Selenia, which was established in 1910 as part of FIAT’s lubricant division with the aim of manufacturing “first fill” lubricants for all FIAT vehicles.

Currently ranked among the top 10 leading global lubricants companies, PETRONAS Lubricants International offers different ranges of lubricants for passenger cars, commercial and heavy vehicles, transmission and hydraulic systems, agriculture and earthmoving machinery, motor bikes and industrial and manufacturing equipment under different brands such as Syntium, Urania, Tutela, Ambra, Akcela, and Sprinta.

The PETRONAS brand is synonymous with Mercedes-AMG in F1. Together, they have dominated the modern Formula One era by winning a historic seventh consecutive World Constructors’ Championship at the end of the 2020 season.

The successes achieved over the years underscore the dynamic collaboration between PETRONAS and The Silver Arrows and demonstrates the relentless determination and talent of its workforce while giving testimony to the prowess of the company’s fluid technology solutions.

“PETRONAS is like the best partner you could ask for. We have been together 10 years and it is so much more than all the other marketing

16

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

partnerships that you see with the other teams because it is a true collaboration,” Toto Wolff, the Team Principal and Chief Executive Officer of the Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team, said.

“PETRONAS has been a fantastic contributor of our success; we feel that we are the PETRONAS team.

“The contribution is absolutely visible in our performances. PETRONAS oils and lubricants has helped to propel us to the front of the grid, and we cannot say thank you enough.”

Toto believes that working closely to improve both the team’s performances and the PETRONAS products is the key to the success of the partnership.

“We work very closely with them because in this age the performance gains need to go in both directions.

“We are looking for performance gains in our race

cars and in our road cars. PETRONAS fuels our top of the range AMG cars and we are always learning from the feedback of what is the fastest laboratory in the world – Formula One. “We always pass those learnings back to PETRONAS and I believe the steps we have made together have allowed PETRONAS to produce a better product compared to their competitors in the market.

“The learnings and the speed of delivery in Formula One is just above everything…in Formula One you need to bring your A-game and that performance will translate into any other product that PETRONAS supplies to the world market.”

Toto is convinced it is a true ‘win win’ partnership with direct benefits to both parties.

“PETRONAS are experts in motor racing. They have been a part of Formula One for more than 25

MEMBER FEATURE

years; they have been with Sauber and they have been with BMW and then our partnership began in 2010 and all of the learnings they have had over that time are now a benefit to Mercedes,” he said.

“This is where PETRONAS has just been wonderful. Over all of these years, we have always had the support of the senior management. They have stood behind us in good times and bad times.

Toto says that PETRONAS’ experience, hard work, dedication and drive to achieve success is a big reason Mercedes has won the past seven world drivers’ and constructors’ championships.

“We put them on a pedestal because we cannot praise them enough. The lead from the top has flowed down through the organisation on every level.

“This is the reason why there are not many teams in any sport that have won consecutive championships,” Toto explains.

“We have support and collaboration on all of the performance objectives, on marketing objectives, on brand objectives…it is across all areas that provide both big gains and marginal gains.”

“I believe that along with PETRONAS we have broken records with our seven constructors’ championships not only in Formula One but in the wider sports world; we are one of the most successful sports teams in the world in any sport and that can only happen if every partner on this journey contributes their expertise.

Toto is hopeful that the relationship will continue long into the future with the two brands of Mercedes and PETRONAS becoming synonymous with each other.

“I believe that PETRONAS and Mercedes need to stay in partnership forever…the longer the

partnership exists, the more that the partners’ values and brands become overlaid,” he says.

“When the customer looks at PETRONAS, he thinks of Mercedes, and when a Mercedes driver looks at the oil or fuel products that he can buy he will think about the joint success of the two brands.

“We are in a perfect marriage. It is about winning, and it is about setting your expectations. It is about the strength of time. Everything we do we will share with PETRONAS and hopefully build multiple pillars of success together.”

Mercedes-AMG PETRONAS F1 Team Driver, Valtteri Bottas, finished second in the 2020 Formula One World Championship to teammate Lewis Hamilton and also believes the team’s partnership with PETRONAS is paramount to its success.

“I always think of the fluids in the car that PETRONAS supply as the blood of the heart of the engine of the car,” Valtteri said.

The Finnish driver believes the presence of the PETRONAS personnel at the track is a comforting element that allows him to focus on his job of driving the car.

“The PETRONAS engineers are at every single race and they make sure everything is functioning well; they are always taking samples and detecting any worries with the cars and risks with parts of the cars.

“They are constantly checking to make sure there are no foreign bodies in the fluids and that things are not about to go wrong.

“Seeing them and chatting with them gives me the confidence that everything is under control and that the car will see the chequered flag in the race.”

For more on PETRONAS Lubricants International Australia, visit www.pli-PETRONAS.com/au or contact au@pli-petronas.com (Australia), nz@pli-petronas.com (New Zealand) or call on +61 2 8833 4200.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

17

BRAKE & CLUTCH

ENHANCE YOUR BRAKING PERFORMANCE Pedders Suspension and Brakes has just released a new braking product To enhance the braking performance of the Landcruiser 70 Series, Pedders Suspension and Brakes says it has released an exciting new product: The TrakRyder Brake Booster.

“After extensive Australian development and engineering, we are proud to offer our TrakRyder Brake Booster to suit the Landcruiser 70 series ABS models from 2012 to current plus Non-ABS models made from 2000 to 2012,” Pedders Suspension and Brakes Managing Director, Scott Pedder, said.

“With a significant increase in braking performance by up to 30 percent, the TrakRyder brake booster kits are available at your local Pedders Suspension and Brakes outlet.

“We invite you to talk to us today about supply and installation of these brake booster kits to suit your Toyota Landcruiser 70 series.

“These are a must-have addition for those vehicles that tow and carry loads regularly.

Improve the braking feel and performance on your Landcruiser with TrakRyder today!”

CLUTCH INDUSTRIES TALKS PERFORMANCE UPGRADES Including the benefits of its innovative ER² design While OE vehicles come fitted with a standard clutch, Clutch Industries explains that if an engine is modified from standard to improve performance, or if the vehicle is under a higher strain than normal (such as carrying or towing heavy weight), an upgraded clutch might be needed.

Clamp Load Clutch Industries explains that increasing the clamp load on the cover assembly is a common way to get more torque capacity from your clutch system. It involves increasing the load exerted by the diaphragm to clamp the clutch disc between the pressure plate and the flywheel. The amount of clamp increase is limited as this can make the clutch pedal feel heavy and put strain on the clutch actuation system (hydraulics or cable etc).

Friction Material Changing the friction material on a clutch disc can increase the torque capacity and can improve the heat properties.

Common clutch disc materials include Organic, Aramid and Cerametallic/Ceramic.

Increasing surface area Increasing the size or the surface area of a clutch increases the torque capacity of the system, however unlike brakes, you’re generally not able to simply install a larger clutch. Clutch Industries explains there are two methods that are used by performance clutch manufacturers to increase the surface area: multiple plates, and its ER² design, as described below.

Multiple Plates Key features and benefits: • Increasing braking performance by up to 30 percent • Designed and engineered in Australia • Reduced pedal effort and improved stopping power • Direct bolt on replacement • Includes fitting instructions • Includes engineering compliance letter and QLD LG1 design code approval number • Full ADR35/05 compliant brake test available to Engineers or Transport Authorities for sign off • Ideal for load carrying and towing vehicles with GVM of up to 4380kgs (ABS) and 4310 (Non ABS) • Two-Year, 40,000km Nationwide Warranty For more information, visit www.pedders.com.au 18

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Installing a twin or triple plate clutch system in most cases can be done without modifying the bellhousing and can double or triple the torque capacity without a detriment to the drivability.

The Mantic Track series by Clutch Industries has a range of twin and triple plate kits which feature several different plate and friction material options for applications from street to track.

Clutch Industries’ innovative ER² design Every now and then a genuine innovation comes along for a product that has basically remained unchanged for many years. Clutch Industries says such an innovation can be found in its performance clutches with ER2 Groove Design.

This groove is a patented system that has been specifically designed to increase the mean effective radius of the pressure plate and assist in heat removal. The increase in the mean effective

radius of the cover assembly gives a signification increase in the torque capacity of the clutch.

Clutch Industries explains that 4Terrain and Mantic Stage Cover Assemblies with the Patented ER2 Groove Design feature a unique groove pattern which is CNC machined on the friction face of the pressure plate.

Clutch Industries explains that the ER2 groove has been specifically designed to increase the Mean Effective Radius of the pressure plate and assist in heat removal.

The increase in the Mean Effective Radius of the cover assembly reportedly gives a significant increase in torque capacity.

By adding the groove to the pressure plate, Clutch Industries explains the inside radius of the friction face has effectively been increased.

It states the first 5/16 inches (7.9375mm) of the pressure plate has all but been removed and added to this, there is progressively less material removed as the radius increases. It explains the net effect of this is to move the effective inside radius further out.

When comparing the Mean Effective Radius (Rm) of the ER2 version to the non ER2 version, Clutch Industries says you can see the ER2 version is further out.

It explains this increases the torque capacity of the clutch, stating that torque capacity is directly related to Rm, so the greater Mean Effective Radius, the higher the torque capacity.

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

BRAKE & CLUTCH

WILWOOD BRAKE FLUIDS Available now from Rocket Industries Wilwood Engineering is well known for manufacturing high-performance disc brake systems and accessories. Rocket Industries here in Australia is a factory appointed distributor for the full wildwood range.

Part of the Wilwood range is the following three high-quality Wilwood brake fluids.

Wilwood EXP Super H-Temp 600 Plus Racing Brake Fluid Wilwood Brake Fluid has been specially formulated for racing applications where brake systems consistently operate at very high temperatures. In addition to guarding against vapor lock, EXP Super Hi-Temp 600 Plus Racing Brake Fluid maintains its viscosity and lubricity under extreme temperatures for maintaining brake system reliability and performance.

EXP Super Hi-Temp 600 Plus Racing Brake Fluid conforms to, and exceeds US specification FMVSS No. 116 DOT 4. Its typical dry boiling point is 594° F (312°C), and its typical wet boiling point is 399° F (204°C). EXP 600 plus

has reportedly been proven to “maintain firm pedal feel and quick response, long after others have failed.”

Hi-Temp° 570 Racing Brake Fluid Wilwood’s specially formulated Hi-Temp° 570 Racing Brake Fluid has a minimum 570°F (298°C) dry boiling point to withstand the severe heat requirements of automotive racing. HiTemp° 570’s low viscosity allows easy bleeding of your brake system, eliminating aeration of the brake fluid caused by foaming due to excessive pumping of the pedal.

Hi-Temp° 570 comes in convenient 12-ounce containers hermetically sealed to guarantee against unwanted absorption of moisture which can drastically lower the fluid’s boiling point (fluid from larger containers tends to become contaminated with moisture, lowering its boiling point and making it unsuitable for racing applications.

Wilwood Five Brake Fluid Wilwood’s DOT Five is a highly refined silicone brake fluid, formulated to preserve the looks

and reliability on classic vehicles and show cars. Its non-hygroscopic blend blocks moisture absorption to inhibit internal system corrosion.

It is also paint friendly and will not harm most custom finishes should a spill or leak occur.

Wilwood Five is said to provide superior lubrication for all brake system wear surfaces with long life from the master cylinder and caliper pistons, bores, and seals. It is a fully DOT 5 compliant fluid meeting or exceeding FMVSS 116 and MILPRF- 46176B-DOT specifications, and can be used in any vehicle that is OE specified for DOT 5 use. Wilwood does not recommend using DOT 5 fluid in any racing applications.

To purchase or for more information on all Wilwood products, please visit www.rocketind.com or call 02 8825 1900.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

19

BRAKE & CLUTCH

BENDIX ULTIMATE+ BRAKE PADS

CHOOSING THE CORRECT EXEDY PERFORMANCE CLUTCH

For sports and high-performance vehicles Brake specialist Bendix has developed the Ultimate+ range of high-performance disc brake pads specifically for sports and highperformance vehicles.

Upgraded from the Ultimate range, Bendix says the Ultimate+ range provides even greater stopping power utilising an advanced ceramic formulation.

It says this provides the added advantages of even greater resistance to brake fade at high temperatures, low braking noise, and new levels of low dust generation.

Under extreme conditions, Bendix states the new brake pads deliver consistent brake pedal feel, even after a hot lap.

Incorporating the Bendix Blue Titanium Stripe for instant friction without the need for bedding in the brakes on installation, the new brake pads are designed and developed for use with slotted rotors.

For ease of fitment, the Bendix Ultimate+ brake pads come complete with Bendix proprietary brake shims featuring nitrile rubber coating that absorbs noise and vibration.

This latest development draws on Bendix’s latest OEM research and development experience, with Bendix stating its Australian engineers continue to bring leading edge products to the aftermarket.

For more information on the new Ultimate+ Disc Brake Pads, free call the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas (8am – 5pm Monday to Friday EST), email brakeadvicecentre@bendix.xom.au or visit www.bendix.com.au 20

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Exedy Australia says it is globally known for providing the broadest range of performance clutches In response to the growing popularity of bolt-on performance modifications, an extensive range of performance clutch kits are available in the market.

To shed some light on selecting the correct performance clutch, Exedy says some key considerations can steer you in the right direction.

Whether your customer is looking to hit the open road in a vehicle with performance upgrades, or if you are dealing with an amateur drift, circuit, rally or drag racing driver, having a full understanding of each customer’s situation plays a key role.

Exedy says you should take into account the following considerations to ensure they get the right clutch for the application.

• What vehicle does the customer have? You need to know manufacturer’s exact model, model year, engine size and code, upgrades or alterations.

• How much torque does the vehicle make? If the torque output is unknown, investigate on vehicle modifications. Knowing the baseline torque output and basic research on how each additional performance component has affected engine torque will help you figure out the estimated total torque output.

• What type of driving is the customer going to be doing? Street driving, street/strip/weekend racer or dedicated race car, serious fourwheel driving, towing a large boat or caravan?

Once you know these basics, Exedy says you can recommend the right Exedy clutch-type. It explains the options from Exedy as follows: • Exedy Sports Tuff (HD) – a great option for the “street driver”. A very smooth engaging

clutch that drives similar to the OEM unit, but capable of handling moderate levels of modifications.

• Exedy (SO)(SC)(RC) Cerametallic and Sports Organic disc with sprung hub centre section – an excellent choice for the “street/strip/ weekend racer.” It handles moderate to aggressive levels of modifications and offers a very consistent operation whether being raced or daily driven.

• Exedy Hyper Cerametallic disc with sprung hub centre section – Exedy says this is the right choice for the “dedicated race car” or very highly modified vehicles. It offers a very consistent operation; however, chatter and driveline vibrations may be experienced due to the upgraded disc damper and performance ceramic friction material.

• Exedy Safari Tuff – ideal for 4X4 enthusiasts.

Purposely engineered to meet the demands of serious four-wheel driving, it comprises a cover assembly which boasts a minimum 25 percent increase in clamp load in comparison to standard. Made of a high-quality clutch disc which has upgraded damper springs and premium grade friction materials.

• The Devil Clutch kit – designed to handle significantly higher torque loads whilst maintaining smooth engagement and low pedal effort. It is limited to a handful of popular vehicles where a requirement for a specialised clutch system exists.

Exedy Australia says it is globally known for providing the broadest range of performance clutches.

It says the Exedy Sports Tuff range is the first port of call for those drivers looking to upgrade clutch performance, offering a range that stands up best to the toughest challenges while delivering the best driving experience.

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

BRAKE & CLUTCH

XTREME CLUTCH UPGRADES For Polo GTI and Audi S1 Xtreme Clutch is now offering a motorsport inspired range of performance upgrade kits for the 2015-2018 Volkswagen Polo GTI 1.8L and 2014-2020 Audi S1 2.0L. These small performance vehicles have proven popular for aftermarket upgrades around the world and are now seeing significant increases in power and torque.

The Xtreme Clutch upgrade kit has been developed around their 240mm alloy performance pressure plate which has offered a modular solution for a wide range of popular performance cars around the world.

Paired to a 4140 chromoly single mass flywheel and with the choice of a sprung organic or sprung ceramic friction disc, these kits have been designed for vehicles that have had significant performance modifications.

The kits also come complete with a replacement concentric slave cylinder, flywheel bolts, pressure plate bolts and alignment tool, ensuring the installer has all of the hardware required for the installation and for long term durability.

The option of an organic or ceramic friction disc allows vehicle owners to choose a kit best suited to their vehicle use and performance goals.

“The sprung organic single plate is ideal for vehicle owners who still drive their car on the street every day and is suitable for vehicles producing up to 600 Nm of torque at the crank,” Xtreme Clutch Mechanical Engineer, Stewart Furze, said.

“The ceramic option has also been included for vehicles being used in motorsport applications where the clutch is likely to experience a high degree of thermal loading.”

Australian Clutch Services, the owner of the Xtreme Clutch brand, also offers a range of standard replacement kits for these vehicles under its ClutchPro brand.

These kits are available with the original style dual-mass flywheel and include an organic friction disc, pressure plate and concentric slave cylinder.

ClutchPro also offers replacement clutch assemblies and installation tools for Dual Clutch Transmission equipped vehicles.

For more information on the Xtreme Clutch range of products, please visit www.xtremeclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH.

CIRCO RACING BRAKE PADS Designed especially for motorsport use “World class” racing brake pad brand, Circo Racing Brake Pads, is distributed by Motorsport Brakes (MSB) in Australia.

MSB explains it acts on behalf of Circo in all racing category supply including for V8 Supercars, the Australian Rally Championship, TA2 Muscle Cars, Touring Car Masters, the RX8 Cup Racing Series and more.

“Circo pads are 100 percent manufactured in Japan to world class standards,” Motorsport Brakes Director, Marty Beckton, said.

Circo Racing Brake Pads feature proprietary compounds designed for specific applications and standards. The compound range is broad and covers all types of competition.

Compounds on offer include: • Circo S83 (friction range 0.30-0.38µ; temp range 0-600°c): this lowmetallic compound is designed for rear applications for circuit use where lower friction braking is required for stability. MSB explains this pad tapers off at higher temps and has very good pad wear and disc wear properties.

• Circo S88 (friction range 0.30-0.38µ; temp range 0-650°c): these brake pads feature a low-steel carbon-based compound and are suitable for heavy duty, performance and light enthusiast track day use. MSB says the low steel properties make this pad popular for those looking to upgrade to exceptional performance without compromising on too much comfort.

• M119 (friction range 0.48-0.51µ; temp range 50-800°c): this carbonmetallic compound brake pad has been specially formulated for gravel and tarmac rally use, as well as circuit racing where low temperature performance is required. MSB explains the compound has been 22

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

rigorously tested in top level machinery including WRC, S2000 and GpN as well as in historics. It says M119 displays excellent resistance to fade for those longer stages and races, whilst offering brilliant levels of low temperature friction.

• M207 (friction range 0.45-0.56µ; temp range 250-920°c): this is the heavy-duty brake pad in the Circo range. MSB says this carbon metallic pad has exceptionally consistent torque characteristics at all temperatures, making it a ‘must have’ for professional circuit racing at the very highest levels. MSB states that the M207 is extremely capable at higher temperatures where other compounds “simply give up.”

Motorsport Brakes (MSB) explains it was established to supply premium brake friction products to the Australian and NZ performance and competition markets.

All Australian distribution of 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

BRAKE & CLUTCH

NEW CHAPTER FOR DBA Disc Brakes Australia has become the official Brake Partner for Tickford Racing The leading Australian brake technology company has opened a new chapter in its motorsport history by becoming the Official Brake Partner for Supercars outfit Tickford Racing in 2021, with the brand to feature prominently on all three Mustangs.

“We’re excited to increase our involvement in motorsport, working closely with the drivers and the whole team at Tickford Racing,” Disc Brakes Australia (DBA) Marketing Manager, Lars Mehlan, said.

“Particularly Cam Waters, who will also be sporting our colours on his race suit in 2021, had an incredible season last year.

“We believe there is a lot of potential in this team, and its professionalism and commitment to success make this partnership a great fit for our brand.”

It is a reunion of sorts between the two companies.

“This collaboration is a continuation of our history as an engineering partner and manufacturer for Tickford performance cars, which started back in the 1990s and saw DBA

supply the brake rotors for the Falcon TE50, amongst others,” Lars said.

“More broadly, it underlines our long-standing commitment to Supercars, the pinnacle of Australian motor racing.”

Tickford Racing Chief Executive Officer and Team Principal, Tim Edwards, welcomed DBA as the team’s newest addition.

“We are delighted to welcome DBA into the Tickford family. DBA’s desire to remain on the cutting edge is no different from our own as a race team,” Tim said.

“This is why they lead the industry with technical innovations and numerous awards to their credit.

In a year that many of us are looking to embrace Australia, it is exciting to join forces with an Australian brand that has gained worldwide recognition, and we’re looking forward to achieving success together in 2021.”

Along with support of the race team, Tickford and DBA will also explore opportunities to include DBA brake pads and rotors in future Tickford vehicle enhancement packages.

“An exciting part of this partnership is the opportunity to build on our historic engineering and manufacturing relationship and work towards putting DBA products into the road cars we work on,” Tim said.

“DBA offers a variety of premium braking products that are in line with the premium quality vehicle enhancements we provide, so we see a lot of potential here for the future.”

For more information on the DBA range of aftermarket performance products, contact DBA on 1800 730 039, email marketing@dba.com.au, or visit www.dba.com.au

SAFETY AND PERFORMANCE With TRW Brake Fluids Amongst the latest developments in automotive manufacturing is the inclusion of advanced braking systems in most new cars, including electronic stability programmes (ESP).

As ESP technology develops, brake fluid needs to act quickly to maximise the performance of the system and prevent the car from skidding.

Driven by safety, all TRW brake fluids are tested to the extreme and exceed international DOT specifications. ZF Services Australia says this means that all TRW brake fluids deliver higher performance in safety critical areas including boiling points and viscosity performance, as well as offering better anti-corrosion and rubber performance.

Whenever drivers use their brakes, the brake fluid heats up and, as brake hoses get older, the amount of moisture that gets into the system increases, resulting in a lowering of the brake fluid boiling point.

TRW’s brake fluids reportedly incorporate the latest technology to make vehicles safer, with a blend of advanced lubricants, stabilisers, antioxidants and corrosion inhibitors to help minimise wear and maximise performance.

If the brake fluid reaches boiling point through the use of the brakes, ‘vapour lock’ will occur, which can result in brake failure.

The range includes: • DOT 3: DOT 3 brake fluid from TRW is designed for vehicles with front and rear drum brakes, as well as hydraulic clutch systems. Additionally, some Japanese car manufacturers recommend DOT 3 brake fluid for their vehicles with ABS and ESP. • DOT 4: TRW recommends the DOT 4 brake fluid for vehicles with disc brakes on the front and drum brakes on the rear. DOT 4 is also suited for vehicles with disc brakes all round as well as those fitted with ABS. The special DOT 4 ESP has been added to the TRW range to offer support for vehicles fitted with

This is why it is important to change the brake fluid of a vehicle on a regular basis, with ZF Services Australia recommending workshops regularly check a vehicle’s brake fluid, with annual changes advised.

Available through ZF Services Australia is TRW’s extensive range of brake fluids, which cater for a wide range of vehicles, including those with drum brakes through to high-performance vehicles with ESPs.

ESP and ABS. While for high-performance vehicles, TRW recommends the DOT 4 GT brake fluid, which has been designed specifically for racing applications.

• DOT 5.1: The latest in brake fluid innovation from TRW, the DOT 5.1 ESP is ideal for heavy, high performance cars, providing an extra level of safety, which can cope with ambient temperatures from -50oC up to +50oC. DOT 5.1 ESP has been designed to complement the very latest ESP, with the low viscosity of the brake fluid allowing for a faster increase and decrease of the pressure needed for varying braking demands.

For more information, visit www.trwaftermarket.com or contact ZF Aftermarket via +61 (2) 9679 5555.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

23

SUSPENSION & HANDLING

BOOST YOUR SUSPENSION KNOWLEDGE With Mark Larkham and Nolathane For more than three years, Nolathane and Mark Larkham have enhanced the suspension knowledge of in excess of 3000 industry members via the Nolathane Academy.

The primary objective of the online learning portal is to improve the suspension category knowledge base at all levels of the industry; be it mechanics, apprentices, call centres, counter and field sales, purchasing through to category management.

KONI SHOCK ABSORBERS Available from Toperformance Products Toperformance Products is the sole Australian importer of KONI shock absorbers.

It distributes KONI through a number of interstate distributors and directly to the trade in Victoria.

Toperformance Products explains that KONI is “about people’s mobility.”

It states KONI has been a pioneer in this field since 1857, providing leading, durable and experience-improving technology.

It says KONI has established itself as the brand of choice for high quality products and has been producing telescopic shock absorbers since 1948.

“KONI helps people move comfortably at whatever speed they desire, wherever they are.

KONI is everywhere from passenger cars to trains to military and industrial applications,” Toperformance Products National Sales and Operations Manager, Glenn Clemann, said.

A big part of this initiative was the use of Mark Larkham, who has proven very effective for Nolathane since coming on board as the Technical Ambassador three years ago.

“Try and find a better technical expert who can simplify and explain complex designs, terminology and the application of a product than Mark Larkham,” Nolathane Marketing Manager, Andrew Nolan, said.

“The guy continues to be highly regarded firstly among motorsport fans but even more so among the industry where mechanics, parts interpreters and technicians are needing continual learning to support their careers.”

The modules are short one-to-two-minute videos followed by a multiple-choice question and answer format.

“We have certainly taken on board the time pressures of the market, so we have developed very short and to the point content that delivers the key information we wish those completing to retain. The first module ‘Introduction to Nolathane’ can be completed in 15 minutes, so we are not talking hours to complete,” Andrew said.

“On successful completion, Nolathane proudly issues a personalised certificate that we hope becomes part of any individual’s key learning achievements.”

For more information, visit www.nolathane.com.au/academy.php 24

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

“Being used in the most extreme conditions, including the dry Sahara desert and the freezing poles, proves that KONI dampers perform when tested.

“As undisputed industry leaders, KONI’s technical capabilities and skills develop, manufacture, and sell high-quality and topperforming hydraulic shock absorbers and suspension systems.

“KONI’s goal is to create the best experience for everyone on the move.”

In the early fifties, KONI decided to play a more prominent role in motorsports in order to enhance the company’s reputation.

In 1955, KONI participated for the first time in the Tulpenrally, a Dutch organised rally with international status.

Rally was just the beginning and KONI soon after began its racing career, entering Formula 1.

In 1956, while at the famous Nordschleife in Germany, KONI assisted the Ferrari team in solving their suspension problems.

The first Grand Prix that KONI officially participated in was in 1958 with Ferrari.

After that, the business expanded quickly and in 1971, KONI achieved its first World Championship win, as Tyrrell Ford won the driver’s and constructor’s championship.

Over time, KONI has not only improved ride control for rally cars and racing cars, but has also dedicated its expertise to improving the damping in various other commercial vehicles, and even for industrial projects like bridges.

“Fast forward to today and KONI has a myriad of race driven achievements attributed to its name,” Glenn said.

“KONI is also the industry leader in ‘value per kilometre’ dampers for heavy commercial applications and the damper of choice for anyone in the automotive aftermarket and racing scene who desires durability, adaptability and performance.”

Toperformance has recently relocated to Dandenong South and welcomes any KONI enquiries.

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

SUSPENSION & HANDLING

ROADSAFE REPLACEMENT CONTROL ARMS Innovative new product to save workshops time and money Roadsafe, one of Australia’s leading undercar component suppliers for the automotive aftermarket for over four decades, has introduced a suspension replacement innovation that it says will save workshop’s labour, time and money while ensuring an accurate and complete control arm and related bushings replacement.

Roadsafe Replacement Control Arms are said to ensure that general automotive technicians and suspension specialists can fit a completely brand new, high quality control arm as a bolt-in replacement with no pressing required.

The use of Roadsafe Replacement Control Arms reportedly reduces suspension component fitment issues, by eliminating the process of fitting new parts into unknown worn components.

Roadsafe explains that whether the reason for repair is worn suspension arm bushes or a worn ball joint, the other components fitted to the arm have done exactly the same amount of work over its lifespan, so in reality while still serviceable, these components could be on borrowed time, requiring dismantling a second time in the near future.

Another complication with modern vehicles is the use of what are referred to as “time positioned” bushes. This is where the centre hole is offset rather than being dead centre of the bush.

Roadsafe explains the complication here is when pressing in a new bush, the positioning of the bush is absolutely critical and if pressed in only a few degrees out can lead to alignment issues, harshness, noise and most importantly, shortened service life of the bush which usually leads to a come-back job.

To eliminate all of these issues and create a better result for your customers, while saving workshop time for your business, Roadsafe says you can replace the complete suspension arm and “get the job right the first time.”

Available from Burson Auto Parts stores nationwide, Roadsafe says it offers a vast range coverage across almost five million vehicles for these innovative suspension repair components.

Applications cover a wide variety of vehicles with the range constantly expanding to meet Australian car parc replacement requirements.

The Roadsafe Replacement Control Arm range includes upper arms, lower arms, radius arms and strut rods across both front and rear replacement applications.

The quality of these automotive aftermarket suspension components is backed by a 40,000-kilometre, two-year warranty.

As parts of Australasia’s largest automotive aftermarket company, Bapcor Limited, Roadsafe and Burson Auto Parts say they are enhancing the proud Australian company’s commitment to automotive repairers nationwide with this new Roadsafe product range.

To find out more about the Roadsafe Replacement Control Arm range, call your local Burson Auto Parts store on 1300 BURSON (287 766) or visit www.roadsafe.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

25

SUSPENSION & HANDLING

MEYLE-HD CONTROL ARM For Mercedes-Benz W205 Mercedes vehicles with complex multi-link axles are susceptible to high levels of wear and tear.

The ball joints, in particular, can fail prematurely, thus impairing driving safety and causing costly repairs with relatively low mileage. Meyle says this is where Meyle-HD comes into play, offering better durability for a longer service life.

The Meyle-HD control arm for Mercedes W205 models has reportedly been technically enhanced by Meyle engineers to meet the highest quality standards for the high weight load on Mercedes vehicles.

The special feature is the increased ball diameter of the Meyle-HD ball pin, which reduces the surface pressure and thus wear.

During the optimisation process, Meyle says its experts not only focused on the function but also on the condition, stating that an inductive heat treatment has made the ball stud even more resistant to friction and wear and therefore simply lasts longer than the OE part.

Meyle states the high-performance grease used is also designed for a long service life and supports optimum functionality while a newly designed plastic seat ensures a perfect fit.

As a manufacturer of high-quality steering and suspension parts, Meyle says its products come with 25 years of technical know-how and that it offers a complete range of products for almost all aspects of steering and suspension.

Meyle says that its award-winning and cleverly designed Meyle-Kits also save time and money in daily workshop business.

It states that quality is not only ensured in the in-house quality and testing laboratories in Hamburg, but also in a real “stress test” on the track with renowned racing teams.

Meyle-HD parts come with a four-year warranty.

For more information, visit www.meyle.com 26

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

BILSTEIN B4 DAMPMATIC Helping Mercedes suspension ‘stay intelligent’ Bilstein says you should watch for DampMatic technology when replacing dampers on a Mercedes, stating that “only with Bilstein does the suspension retain its ‘intelligence.’”

For more than a decade, many entry-level Mercedes-Benz models have been equipped with “intelligent suspension” based on a mechanical process.

They use the DampMatic technology developed by Bilstein – an amplitude-dependent control system that is fully integrated into the shock absorber.

The models concerned are A-Class W168/W169, B-Class W245, C-Class W204/W205, GLC X253 and E-Class W212/W213.

However, says Bilstein, this smart feature of the factory suspension is often unknown to independent garages and is hardly recognised when it is removed. After all, no cables or other visual features draw the attention to the DampMatic system.

If any aftermarket shock absorber is ordered, Bilstein says the suspension loses its “intelligence,” stating that the only exception is if the workshop has opted for the B4 series replacement shock absorber from Bilstein as it explains that along with the genuine MercedesBenz spare parts, this is the only shock absorber that offers the unique DampMatic system.

Bilstein says workshops do not need to take anything else into account when ordering spare parts: if a Mercedes is already equipped ex-works with the amplitude-dependent control system, this also applies to the associated Bilstein B4 DampMatic.

It states there is no need to decide between different product variants “with” and “without” and therefore no mistake can be made.

So how does the DampMatic exactly work and why should motorists never do without it despite slightly higher costs? Bilstein says the reason is the large damping force spread, which is made possible by a control piston.

Bilstein explains that depending on the driving situation, the shock absorber behaves more softly

or more firmly. As such, on a well-developed road, the passengers can enjoy outstanding rolling comfort, while on a serpentine road, dynamic attitude and agile handling are achieved.

It says the system reacts at lightning speed so that even unexpected evasive manoeuvres can be safely mastered. Driving comfort, agility and safety are thus no longer conflicting demands; rather the centre of gravity is flexibly repositioned according to the situation and necessity.

Importantly for the workshop, Bilstein says the installation is just like with any other shock absorber, as no cables, sensors or even an external control unit are required for this semi-active system. The degree of complexity thus reportedly remains pleasantly low and weight is also saved.

Bilstein says those who are interested in technology and want to know exactly how it works can imagine it as follows: in the “soft setting,” the damper oil flows through both the main piston and a special DampMatic bypass. If the vibration amplitude increases due to the driving situation, the control piston moves to its stop due to the sudden excitation. It thus closes the bypass, and the entire volume flow is handled by the main spool. As the flow rate is thus reduced, the shock absorber behaves “more tightly.”

In the sum of its properties, Bilstein says its B4 DampMatic offers significantly more than a conventional shock absorber, despite slightly higher costs.

It states it is the only aftermarket spare part that offers the full performance spectrum of the original suspension and says that when replacing shock absorbers on a Mercedes, workshops should therefore always pay attention to this small but significant difference, which is easily overlooked when ordering parts. Bilstein says if you use Bilstein components straight away, you can be sure that all the features of the original are retained in full.

For more information, visit www.bilstein.com

SUSPENSION & HANDLING

REVOLUTIONISING TYRE CHANGER TECH Introducing the Corghi Uniformity – the world’s first diagnostic tyre changer Corghi Australia says Uniformity is the world’s first ‘Diagnostic Tyre Changer,’ breaking new ground in both safety and efficiency.

The Uniformity reportedly halves the number of steps it takes to fit a new tyre. As a result, it delivers “massive increases” in workshop efficiencies in addition to improved workflow and safety. But most importantly, says Corghi Australia, investing in a Uniformity will ultimately increase profitability.

Corghi Australia explains that when using current technology, fitting a tyre is a four-step process of Mounting, Diagnostic, Match Mounting and Balancing.

on the tyre changer, transforming it into a real wheel diagnosis centre,” Corghi Australia General Manager, Andrew Cornwell, said. “This is essential for the professional who wants to provide clients with a first-class service.”

Corghi Australia says the key is the unique variable thrust pressing roller and the precision laser sensor, which delivers a complete diagnostic evaluation of each wheel and/or the entire set of wheels. It analyses the wheel geometry in a loaded and unloaded state, simulating behaviour on the road and favouring driver comfort and safety, in addition to completing the normal tyre mounting and demounting operations.

It explains that the Uniformity completes the Mounting, Diagnostics and Match Mounting tasks simultaneously, leaving only the balancing to be completed by the operator before the wheel and tyre assembly is ready to be fitted back onto the vehicle.

“The Uniformity resolves the vibration problem by providing the tyre fitter with suggestions about how to best mount the tyre on the rim, making it possible to reduce the actuation work time by at least 25 percent and reducing the total time by up to 50 percent when compared with traditional tyre fitters,” said Andrew.

and intuitive graphic video interface and the machine resolves detected faults by optimising the coupling position between the rim and tyre.

“The Uniformity is the first Tyre Changer that allows match-mounting to be carried out directly

Operators are guided step-by-step through the tasks that need to be performed via a modern

For more information, visit www.corghiaustralia.com.au or call 1800 267 444.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

27

TRADE TALK

PERFORMANCE MASTERMIND LEADS THE WAY Herrod Performance’s Rob Herrod is one of those people who stands out in a crowd It is not just the shaved head or giant smile, but the man’s energy and enthusiasm that sets him apart.

Rob Herrod gets things done.

In recent years he has been the driving force behind the Ford Mustang in Australia, helping to develop and then build a string of limited-edition ’Stangs including the factory-backed R-Spec and 578-kiloWatt SM17 created to celebrate Scott McLaughlin’s three consecutive wins in the Australian Supercars championship.

Along the road he was also responsible for reopening a section of the derelict Ford Australia factory in Broadmeadows to get the 500 R-Spec cars built the right way at the right time.

“We are Mustang. That is what we do,” Rob said.

“Our place is flat-out doing work on new Mustangs. I love that car.”

But Rob is not just a Mustang man. His first car was a Holden, but it did not take him long to accept the wise advice of his father, Jack, who got him started as his apprentice more than 45 years ago.

“My first car was an HJ Holden. But my father said, ‘one day you’ll see the light’ and it did not take long before I was driving a Ford,” he recalls.

In the world of Ford, Rob is much more than just

a tuning shop owner from the gritty Melbourne industrial suburb of Thomastown.

He is on first-name terms with the heavy hitters with Ford Performance in Detroit, USA, as well as a celebrated and welcome Aussie ambassador at the landmark SEMA show – for the Speciality Equipment Market Association – which is held every year, except for the COVID-19 hit 2020 event, in Las Vegas.

When Ford staged a top-secret preview event to celebrate the return of the heavy-hitting Bronco off-roader, Rob was one of the celebrity guests.

Before the Mustang and Bronco, there were many, many Falcons over the years and one of Rob’s most-influential mentors was the late Howard Marsden, who was Head of Motorsport at Ford Australia and got him involved on some side projects.

Surprisingly, there are only six staff at Herrod Performance, although the workshop has all the right stuff.

Rob has many fond memories of Howard and he, like Ryan Story and Dick Johnson today, helped him believe in himself and his ability.

“We have five hoists, a dyno cell, a separate engine room, and even a decal area. It’s a pretty big place,” Rob says.

That ability has made Herrod Performance the largest Ford Performance outlet beyond the USA and earned him a place with the decision makers at Ford’s go-faster division in Detroit.

The shop has just been fully updated with an impressive new floor that makes it look brandnew.

In the case of the Mustang, he has been able to tap into a special parts pipeline, as well as the inside knowledge of how to improve the car.

Rob Herrod

“Presentation is very important. I want people who come to the shop to get that warm fuzzy feeling when they arrive,” he says.

“They need to know that professionals will be working on their vehicle. The factory might be 22 years old, but I am always doing updates to ensure it looks brand-new.

“I don’t cut corners. I spend money where it is needed.”

It is the same for the cars and the parts. Herrod can supply everything from stickers – “we give those away for free” – to a crate engine from Ford Performance.

“Our main game is that we get customers who say to me ‘I’ve bought a mustang, what can you do for me?’,” says Rob. “Some people might have two grand to spend, others might have 50 or 60 thousand. No two are the same.

“So, we build them an individual car. And everything I do I try to keep within the rules and regulations. We do not build hoon cars.

“We now have four vehicles with second-stage manufacturer’s status. Even if we are just fitting a supercharger, it goes with an engineering report.

“That’s one of the things I’m very proud about and it’s very important.”

28

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

TRADE TALK

In the last two years, Rob’s reputation has helped to forge close ties to Ford Australia and the DJR crew on the Gold Coast.

The result was a series of three cars which raise the bar for the Mustang in Australia.

They are the R-Spec Mustang sold as part of the official dealer range, the limited-edition SM17 that was a sell-out with 50 cars in Australia and another 30 in New Zealand, and the ultrarare Ford Mustang Dick Johnson Limited Edition.

The king-of-the-road Mustang is the most powerful road-registered ’Stang in the world, with a whopping 635 kilowatts of power and the rest of the mechanical package to match.

Only 30 were built, with a price-tag more than double a basic Mustang, but they were sold out in a couple of weeks.

“I’d have to say my pride and joy was the Dick Johnson Limited Edition. That car is unbelievable, from the power to the special logos

that are engraved onto parts of the engine,” Rob said.

“It is something else. It is an unbelievable thing.

Some people who told me it’s so good it doesn’t even feel like a Mustang.”

But Rob is most proud of the R-Spec, one of the rarest Mustangs of all time.

There are plenty of Ford tuners, but Rob knows that only he and the legendary Carroll Shelby have been officially sanctioned by Ford to build a car that sits as an official model in their showrooms.

“To have a collaboration with Ford Motor Company and have your own production car for Ford Australia is pretty amazing. It’s built to Ford’s standards, Ford’s quality, to give them exactly what they wanted,” Rob said.

“And to have it built in part of the old Ford factory was also pretty special. To get that up and running to build the 500 cars was a real project.”

Rob is 60 but still has his foot down hard on the go pedal, even if he knows his future projects – and there are a few – will have to be very, very special to top the R-Spec.

“That car is the pinnacle of my career. I feel like I’ve done something no-one else can do,” he said.

“How many people can say they created a car and then built it? And did it with Ford?

“Wow. Sometimes I have to pinch myself.”

To learn more about Herrod Performance, visit www.herrodperformance.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

29

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

SUPERCHEAP AUTO BACKS TCR AUSTRALIA

The popular retailer has been announced as the naming rights partner of the series for the next five years A new long-term partnership has been announced between the Australian Racing Group (ARG) and Supercheap Auto, which will see “Australia’s most recognised retailer of automotive parts and accessories” as the naming rights partner of the TCR Australia Series.

For five years commencing in 2021, Australia’s version of the global TCR (Touring Car Racing) formula will be known as the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series.

The 2021 Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series will take in six rounds, with every race of the Supercheap Auto TCR Australia Series to be televised live and free on the channels of the Seven Network.

Supercheap Auto will also partner the V8powered S5000 open wheel category competing for the Australian Drivers’ Championship and Motorsport Australia Gold Star in 2021.

The new partnership continues Supercheap Auto’s long-standing commitment to Australian motorsport, where it has successfully supported race teams and major events for close to 25 years.

“As an Australian owned retailer, we are proud to continue investing in Australian Motorsport,” Supercheap Auto Managing Director, Benjamin Ward, said.

“The TCR series with its diverse range of turbocharged touring cars deliver fantastic racing and with the broadcast of every race now on free to air television – this is accessible to all Aussie motorsport fans.”

Supercheap Auto has over 300 stores across Australia and New Zealand and specialises in automotive parts and accessories and also stocks tools and accessories for the DIY home handyman and products for travel, touring, outdoors, garage and the shed.

For more from Supercheap Auto, visit www.supercheapauto.com.au 30

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

ZF AND SACHS: “MOTORSPORT IS IN OUR DNA” Motor racing at the very highest levels can subject components to the absolute extremes of performance, temperature and durability that cannot be replicated in laboratories or test environments According to ZF, this is why ZF Aftermarket and its Sachs brand have been synonymous with global motorsport since 1923.

ZF utilises the Sachs motorsport program as a development platform for its range of original equipment and aftermarket shock absorbers and clutches, and as validation of their performance and durability.

Formula 1, World Rally Championship, Formula E, sports car competition, DTM German Touring Cars, off-road racing, drifting, and the Supercars Championship have all witnessed this proactive development and testing of Sachs products.

Every year more than 10 million vehicles fitted with Sachs shock absorbers roll off assembly lines around the world in an impressive demonstration of ZF’s credibility and compliance as an original equipment supplier.

This extensive product catalogue manifests itself into a local range of more than 2,500 aftermarket shock absorbers, together with a further 350 strut mounts and bearings, and 200 bump stops and boot kits.

Shock absorber fitments are available for performance cars, family cars, SUVs, trucks, trailers and light commercial vehicles, with the specialised Sachs MAX range for 4x4, off-roadvehicles and light commercial vehicles.

Clutches too are a core product from ZF’s Sachs brand, with more than 1,500 units on offer.

Like its shock absorbers, ZF says Sachs clutches have a long history of performance and durability validation in all manner of motor racing, including Formula 1 and locally in Supercars.

Sachs clutches can be ordered from ZF Services Australia individually or as installation kits. These kits include a pressure plate, clutch disc and

release bearing, as well as special grease for ease of assembly.

Sachs and Australian Motorsport Think Australian motorsport and you think Craig Lowndes. A long time Ambassador of the brand, Craig has recently taken on the role of Product and Technical Expert for Sachs.

Craig has raced with Sachs products dating back to 2005, with the relationship providing numerous highlights, including six Bathurst 1000 victories, a total of 58 Supercars Championship race wins and 164 podium finishes.

Highly popular within the Sachs customer base, Craig’s background as a trained motor mechanic resonates strongly with those operating in the workshop environment, with exclusive meet and greet experiences planned throughout 2021, further connecting the face of the brand to end users.

With his intimate knowledge of the products, Craig is currently hosting a summer campaign promoting the Sachs MAX big bore range of shock absorbers, with a video series of helpful tips, ensuring Australians get the most out of their fourwheel drive adventures.

The clips can be viewed via the Sachs and ZF Services Australia social media channels between December and February, with further information available at www.sachsmaxshocks.com.au In keeping with the theme, Craig has been used as a conduit to connect his motorsport fan base to the Sachs MAX products via the online giveaway of Sachs Summer Packs, featuring a range of camping accessories.

By drawing on his motorsport experience into everyday driving, Craig is essentially in line with ZF’s global engineering team, who are constantly applying lessons learned in the motorsport arena for use in the passenger vehicle range of products.

For detailed application information on the full Sachs range, visit www.sachsprovenperformance.com or contact ZF Services Australia via 1800 ZF SALES (93 72537).

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

DAVID REYNOLDS, PENRITE OIL JOIN KELLY GROVE RACING David Reynolds will contest the #26 Penrite Racing Ford Mustang for the team David Reynolds is a highly accomplished driver with multiple race wins to his name, including a Bathurst 1000 win in 2017.

David’s Ford Mustang will be backed by Australian family-owned and operated oil company Penrite. Alistair McVean, who has a long-standing relationship with David, has been appointed to Kelly Grove Racing to engineer the #26.

Penrite’s state of the art production facility is based in south east Melbourne, only a short drive from Kelly Grove Racing’s headquarters in Braeside.

It produces a range of locally developed 10 Tenths motorsport-developed lubricants for maximum performance and protection to ensure Kelly Grove Racing’s V8 engines continue to perform flawlessly on the racetrack, and work is already underway between Kelly Grove Racing’s in-house engine department and Penrite’s technical team to develop a range of oils and lubricants suited to the team’s Ford Mustang Supercars.

With Penrite founded in Melbourne in the year 1926, David will adopt the number #26 for his Penrite-backed Ford Mustang.

“I’m unbelievably happy to be joining Kelly Grove Racing for the 2021 season and beyond.

It’s obviously a very exciting time for the team with the recent investment from the Grove Group and I believe the team has the resources and firepower to achieve great things this year and continue building on some of the success we saw last year,” David said.

“I think we’re on the cusp of something really awesome at Kelly Grove Racing, the

infrastructure and culture that’s in place has already really impressed me and I’m excited for the 2021 season.

“It’s awesome for me to have a few familiar faces also join the team with Alistair to engineer my side of the garage and obviously Penrite continuing to back my car which is awesome.

“Penrite have been a big supporter of mine over the years, they’re family to me so I’m looking forward to continuing that great relationship.”

For more from Penrite, visit www.penriteoil.com.au

BURSON AUTO PARTS DOUBLES UP IN 2021 The supplier of parts, accessories, tools, and equipment will field two TCR Australia cars Highly experienced former Supercar race winner and Bathurst 1000 champion 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 Garry Rogers Motorsport.

This doubles up Burson Auto Parts’ motorsportbased marketing efforts together with supplier sponsors Dayco, Wesfil, Fuchs, Hella, Hella Pagid, Sachs, Bosch, and Premier Auto Trade.

“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 2021 season,” Jason said.

“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 about, to watching him drive out of pit lane in the Burson Auto Parts Peugeot at the pre-season test, really formed 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 this season. 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.”

The 2021 TCR Australia Championship will traverse the Eastern Seaboard across six championship rounds and one invitational event and kicked off with round one in Tasmania at the end of January.

“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 was an amazing experience,” said Ben, speaking ahead of the first event.

“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!”

Burson Auto Parts General Manager, Marketing, Anthony Hughes is excited about doubling up on the track in this new and exciting 2021 TCR Australia Championship.

“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,” Anthony said.

Australia’s Burson Auto Parts is part of the country’s largest automotive aftermarket specialised company, Bapcor Limited.

To find out more about Burson Auto Parts, visit www.burson.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

31

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

UFI FILTERS COMES TO AUSTRALIA The company’s products have been proven in motorsport competition around the world Founded in 1971, UFI Filters says it is a global leader in filtration technology and thermal management. The Group, headquartered in Italy, counts 19 industrial sites around the world with over 4,000 people in 19 countries, and it is now bringing its 50-year OEM experience to the Australian Aftermarket sector with the opening of a new branch in Sydney.

UFI Filters supplies a full range of air, oil, fuel, cabin, hydraulic and coolant filters as well as thermal management systems to the automotive sector, covering cars and motorcycles as well as commercial, heavy-duty and agricultural vehicles.

The company is the developer and manufacturer of its own filtration media which it says allows it to create unique and groundbreaking products.

UFI Filters explains it is research-driven, holding 237 patents and reinvesting more than five percent of its revenue in R&D. It has 168 specialised technicians in three Innovation and Research Centers in Italy, India and China.

Recognised in motorsport UFI Filters says its expertise has been recognised for more than 40 years by the Formula 1 world.

In fact, it says nine of the 10 F1 Teams use its products and more than 110 UFI filters are used in every race.

The company supplies a total of 3,000 filters every year for this technologically demanding market, from engine oil filters to air filters and fuel filters (low and high pressure), hydraulic filters and “last chance filters” for the circuits containing cooling water and hydraulic oil.

UFI says its products are in high demand also in other world-famous competitions such as Indycar, Formula 2, Formula 3, GTE and Superbike.

In addition, UFI Filters says its core values, passion, innovation and excellence are found in its brand Ambassador, British champion Archie

Hamilton, who drives a Porsche 718 Cayman GT4 Clubsport, in the Porsche Sprint Challenge GB. The on-road version of that same car is equipped with a UFI oil filter module on both the 2.0 and 2.5-litre versions, a filter that is also available to the company’s aftermarket customers.

UFI Filters says this is further proof that the expertise built up in the racing field can be found in all of UFI’s range, both for the OEMs – 95 percent of which it says worldwide choose UFI as supplier – and for the Aftermarket.

One of the latest on-road projects of the Group involves the Lamborghini Sián FKP 37 that, with a total of 819 HP and 720 Nm of maximum torque, is the most powerful Lambo ever produced. UFI Filters proudly supplies this supercar with the double airbox and oil filter.

For more information, visit www.ufifilters.com

VALVOLINE BACKS MICHAEL CARUSO Two-year deal ‘re-inked’ for GRM Alfa Romeo driver Valvoline and Garry Rogers Motorsport have rolled over their two-year TCR Australia commitment with Michael Caruso for the 2021 and 2022 seasons.

Announced at the start of last year, Michael was set for a two-year stint in the emerging turbocharged touring car class, only for the COVID-19 pandemic to put a halt to the program.

Driving his Valvoline Alfa Romeo Giulietta Veloce, the former Supercars race winner and Bathurst 1000 podium finisher qualified on the front-row at the TCR Asia Pacific Cup event at Albert Park, but never got the chance to see the green lights when the Formula 1 event was closed down at the start of the health crisis.

Despite the challenges that he faced in 2020, Michael is pleased that all parties have agreed to keep the two-year program in place.

“Having not done any racing last year, it’s great that both Valvoline and GRM are keen to roll the partnership on for the intended two years, so we are all pretty excited to get it going,” Michael said.

“We feel that it is going to be a successful partnership. The TCR Series is a fantastic, global product, and despite the fact that we have been a 32

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

full year out of the seat, there is some really strong interest out there to see the cars go back around.

“This type of racing really excites Valvoline. They love all motorsport, but the closeness of the TCR racing and the variety of brands in the field is something that has them keen for more.

“When I got to Albert Park, it was only my second time in the car. I was so looking forward to getting into that race, starting alongside Garth Tander. To not even get onto the track that day was a real let down.

“That is all behind us now, so we have full focus on 2021. There’s no doubt that the ingredients are there to get some strong results in the Alfa Romeo.”

The first event of the 2021 TCR Australia Series was held at Symmons Plains Raceway in late

January, held as part of the inaugural Race Tasmania festival.

Michael qualified fifth in Tasmania and finished race one in 12th and race three in ninth after failing to finish race two due to a crash.

A Safety Car interrupted that race for a short period after a tangle between Michael’s Alfa and Dylan O’Keeffe’s Renault at the end of the first lap.

Michael’s Alfa fired across the front of the Renault, slamming into the pit straight wall and ending the Valvoline-sponsored driver’s race.

The second round of the Championship is scheduled for Phillip Island in Victoria on February 19-21.

For more from Valvoline, visit www.valvoline.com.au

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

DAYCO PORSCHE RETURNS TO THE TRACK In 2021 Dayco will continue its partnership with Lago Racing Thanks to its ongoing partnership with Lago Racing, Dayco Australia says it will once again be a major player in the 2021 Porsche Carrera Cup Australia Championship.

The renowned #23 black beauty will return for the planned eight round 2021 series of the world’s fastest one-make championship with long term Dayco Ambassadors and highly experienced racers David Russell and team owner driver Roger Lago competing in both the Pro and Pro-Am categories throughout the season.

Porsche Carrera Cup Australia has been a popular addition to the Dayco Australia motorsport program over recent years, with the global company using Australian race imagery locally and worldwide across its automotive aftermarket marketing and promotional campaigns.

The 2021 Porsche Carrera Cup Championship features a number of exciting changes for the new season following the category’s heavily pandemic disrupted 2020 season. Once again, all Carrera Cup races will be held in conjunction with major Supercar Championship events. The popular

series plans to return to Western Australia under lights in September and heads across the Tasman to compete in New Zealand in November.

The opening round will be held at Melbourne’s Sandown Raceway from March 18-21, replacing the postponed Australian Formula One Grand Prix event, with the super-fast series racing through South Australia, Northern Queensland, New South Wales, Western Australia and New Zealand from March to December, including the spectacular Surfers Paradise Street Circuit as its grand final round.

According to Dayco Australia Sales and Marketing Director, David McClurg, the 2021 Dayco motorsport program is shaping up to be one of the company’s best yet.

“After the pandemic disruption that totally decimated the Porsche Carrera Cup component of our motorsport marketing program last season, we are very excited about the new season ahead,” David said.

“We have a great car and two very accomplished drivers, a number of great events including a

night race in WA and a visit to New Zealand, where we also have many Dayco customers.

“The Dayco Porsche Cup Car has become one of the most recognised cars in the field and these incredible racing cars have a truly global appeal.

“This combined with our continued Supercars involvement, our TCR car sponsorship and our grass roots support of the Monash Motorsport Formula SAE team, forms an excellent motorsport marketing package for the new year ahead.”

For more from Dayco, go to www.dayco.com.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

33

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

RYCO TO FILTER TICKFORD SUPERCARS

SHAKE-UP FOR SHELL V-POWER RACING DJR has announced a restructure and its 2021 engineering line-up

The Australian filter supplier has become Tickford Racing’s Official Filtration Partner Founded in Melbourne in 1936, Ryco says it is Australia’s top selling brand of automotive oil, air, and fuel filters, and was named in the Australian Financial Review’s most innovative companies list in 2019 and 2020.

The partnership with Tickford Racing will see significant Ryco branding across the team’s three Ford Mustang Supercars, and all of its entries utilising Ryco filters on the racetrack.

Ryco and Tickford Racing will also pursue a number of innovative projects aimed at stepping up Ryco’s competitive edge in race cars and daily drives as well as Tickford’s performance on the track.

“We at Ryco are elated to be teaming up with Tickford Racing in 2021,” Ryco Executive General Manager, Stuart Chandler, said.

The partnership also ties back to a significant milestone in Ryco’s 84-year history.

“Partnering with a Ford team – Tickford in particular – is great for our brand from a heritage perspective,” Stuart said.

“Our Z9 oil filter was one of our first massproduced filters, and was an original part on the early Ford Falcons. Partnering with Tickford, whose lineage on the track and the road stems from the Falcon era, adds a sentimental dimension to our relationship, which was appealing to us and hopefully just as exciting for the fans and supporters of the team.”

“Joining forces with Ryco is very exciting for us. To bring another industry-leading brand into our team builds a lot of momentum for us,” Tickford Racing Chief Executive Officer and Team Principal, Tim Edwards, said.

For more from Ryco, visit www.rycofilters.com.au 34

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Back Row: Nick Hughes, Perry Kapper, Ryan Story, Ron Young, Josh Silcock.

Front Row: Ludo Larcoix, Richard Harris, Ben Croke, Dick Johnson, Mark Fenning

Dick Johnson Racing (DJR) recently announced a restructure of Shell V-Power Racing as well as its engineering line-up ahead of the 2021 Repco Supercars Championship.

“Perry Kapper (Chief Engineer) and Josh Silcock (Team Manager) are two people who are very well known to us and who have done a tremendous job for our team over many seasons.

In explaining all the changes that have been made, now Team Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Ryan Story, noted they were necessary to not only strengthen the business but also to create greater stability and structure within the team.

“Ron Young (Chief Financial Officer and Company Secretary) has been associated with the team a lot longer than he’s been a direct employee. He worked for Crimsafe for many years with Steve Brabeck, and he’s a real figure of strength in terms of his administrative management of the organisation.

“We have a very ambitious growth strategy which encapsulates not only Supercars but our organisation as a whole,” Ryan said.

“We’ve given great consideration as to how we go racing, how we can operate better on the ground, and how we can ensure the people with the appropriate skill sets and experience are in the right roles.

“At a later stage, we look forward to announcing our Advisory Board that will aid and assist the senior management of the race team. It will comprise a group of people who possess enormous levels of experience both in motorsport and in business.

“Dick and I are very proud owners of his eponymous racing team, and in taking on the Chairman and Chief Executive Officer roles, it’s not dissimilar to what I’ve been doing in years past since 2013. But it does change some of the responsibilities for the day-to-day operations of the race team itself.

“In Ben Croke (Team Principal), we have a guy who has been involved in motor racing not just here in Australia in Supercars, but in Europe as well. He has got an immense amount of experience, and he has been with us for a long time. I think that now is the right time for him to step up.

“The roles of Ludo Lacroix (Competition Director) and Nick Hughes (Technical Director) remain unchanged. Mark Fenning also remains as a key member of the trackside engineering group moving to a senior role across both cars, while also focusing on the design and development of the Gen3 Mustang alongside Perry Kapper. We have a very solid team which will continue to build the Dick Johnson Racing legacy.

“In terms of our engineering lineup for next year, we look forward to having Ludo engineering Anton De Pasquale and taking on a young driver similar to when he first joined our team in 2017 alongside Scott McLaughlin. Richard Harris will step up to a race engineering role to run Will Davison’s Shell V-Power Racing Team Mustang.”

Motorsport Hall of Famer Dick Johnson echoed Ryan’s comments, saying the changes were about optimising the organisation.

“We have to keep looking at ways of improving the entire structure of the whole business, and Ryan has put in a lot of time and effort into thinking about the best way of doing that - and this is the best way,” Dick said.

For more from Shell V-Power Racing, visit www.djrteampenske.com.au

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

MOBIL 1 AND WAU: A TRUE TECHNICAL PARTNERSHIP

Mobil 1’s relationship with Walkinshaw Andretti United stretches back almost 30 years, but its presence is more than just a sticker on a race car, it is a critical technical relationship which advantages both parties Walkinshaw Andretti United (WAU) – a threeway partnership between Walkinshaw Racing in Australia, Andretti Autosport in the US and United Autosports in Europe – is one of Australian motorsport’s most enduring teams.

Competing in the Supercars Championship, you could be forgiven for not recognising WAU, but its original name, Holden Racing Team (HRT), is one of the biggest brands in domestic sport. Even those that do not follow motorsport recognise HRT. HRT has won the Bathurst 1000 seven times and enjoyed six championship wins – plus a further two with the HSV Dealer team. Drivers like Peter Brock, Craig Lowndes, Mark Skaife and current Bathurst champion Garth Tander are synonymous with HRT/WAU, and in 2020 Chaz Mostert and Bryce Fullwood were still winning races for the outfit.

Since 1994, Mobil 1 has been one of WAU’s most important sponsors. In fact, Mobil 1 is synonymous with WAU, as is the famous Mobil 1 logo on the bonnet of every one of its Holden Commodores.

Like most companies that invest in motorsport, Mobil 1 uses the Supercars and WAU platforms to create brand awareness, but it is more than a simple sporting relationship, it is a true partnership.

“The partnership between WAU and Mobil 1 continually evolves, what we do now with Mobil is very different, both on and off track, compared to where we started,” WAU Team Principal, Bruce Stewart, said.

36

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

“We partner with Mobil to get the best performance out of our cars and to give our drivers the best opportunity to enjoy success.

“We then use that success to help resonate the Mobil 1 brand with their retail distributors and for industrial uses.”

ExxonMobil – the parent company behind Mobil 1 – uses WAU and its involvement in the Supercars Championship to showcase the technology of its products.

“It’s about delivering results that prove the performance of the product, and motorsport will quickly call you out if your technology is inferior,” ExxonMobil General Manager Engineering Services, Paul Foster, said.

Supercars is a high stress and high-performance environment from an engine oil point of view.

“The analysis we do on the engine oils, and the results we collate over time, all roll up into our global R&D programs supporting further development of these products for future needs,” Paul said. “(The sport) enables the Mobil brand to have a local example of how our products perform in Australia’s premier motorsport category and how they can translate to on-the-road experiences.”

It would be easy to think that the partnership is a one-way street in terms of benefit.

Mobil 1 utilises WAU and the highly competitive Supercars series to test, analyse and improve its oils for superior standard road use, but WAU is getting just as much advantage from the relationship.

Bruce Stewart

The technical support that Mobil offers WAU is impressive. It has a dedicated team that pays particular attention to all aspects of the relationship, from engineering and technical service through to in-depth forensic analysis.

WAU has access to the global Mobil Motorsport Technical Team which also supports its Formula 1, Porsche, Le Mans and NASCAR interests.

This support is accessible year-round, but where the relationship really pays dividends is at the annual Formula One event in Melbourne.

“We have access to a lot of the Mobil technicians who travel with Formula One,” WAU Technical Director, Carl Faux, said.

“This allows us to reset every year, thanks to the regular contact that we enjoy, to discuss the product, plus changes and challenges that we may have with different parts of the car. It’s a technical partnership in every sense.”

With a mobile testing facility based at the Albert

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

Park track, and the key technical executives available, WAU takes advantage of the annual opportunity.

“We talk about the challenges, we might have a new path component or an area of the car that might be outside the engine that needs attention, and we also focus on the lubrication opportunities,” Bruce said.

For example, ahead of the 2020 season Supercars introduced a new Xtrac gearbox. It was very different from what had been used before and required a particular oil type – which was not Mobil 1.

This is where the partnership with Mobil yields impressive results.

At the track, WAU gave Mobil some oil samples so they could determine the materials within the oil and its composition.

Questions were also be asked: Has it decomposed?

Is any metal – emanating from the bearings – present?

“Having that expertise available to us with a brand-new product is brilliant,” Carl said.

“We gave them some of the samples of the new oil we were running, and we gave them samples of oil that we have run in the past for them to do some analysis on.

“Remember, it’s not their oil at this stage.

“They look at the composition, what it’s trying to do and so forth, and then off the back of this they can do their magic and provide us with a Mobil oil that meets regulation, but is better.

“It’s a true technical partnership. And being an engineer, god I love it.”

Away from the track, WAU can still evaluate oils and how they impact the running of the race car, they just utilise the local team.

They can conduct all the same tests and analysis, but it is done at the lab, so the results take longer to get back to the team.

It is easy for people outside the sponsorship bubble to think that a sticker is only about exposure.

On many occasions it is, or product and technologies are given in exchange for real estate on the car, but sometimes it is so much more.

Sometimes the technical advantages are more than just local, they can be global. And any engineer would welcome the opportunity to experience this because knowledge is power: knowledge is progression.

“It’s exciting to work with Mobil because they’ve got that knowledge base, it’s exciting to work with them because they’ve got tools that we could only hope to have,” Carl said.

“They’re the oil experts, they’re the ones that provide us with a service. From my point of view they help us do better than we could on our own.”

An extensive range of Mobil 1 oils and lubricants is distributed in Australia by MotorActive.

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

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

37

MEMBERS IN MOTORSPORT

COOLDRIVE RACING LAUNCHES NEW SUPERCARS TEAM The 2021 Supercars season will see a new team on the grid Tim Slade is set to drive for the newly formed CoolDrive Auto Parts-backed Blanchard Racing Team (BRT), which will be based in a stateof-the-art facility at CoolDrive’s head office in Melbourne.

The outfit will utilise a proven race-winning package in the form of a Tickford Racing-built Ford Mustang adorned with the number “3”, with Tickford also providing the car’s power plant.

“I am super happy to be joining the Blanchard Racing Team. The fit is perfect for me and I’m genuinely excited and proud to not only represent BRT but also the Blanchard family and the CoolDrive business,” Tim Slade said.

“Having worked in the Acacia Ridge and Eagle Farm branches this year for a few months during the COVID period, I know how much the CoolDrive racing program means to the staff.

“To have the race team workshop inside of the CoolDrive headquarters in Melbourne is really cool and gives the staff something that no other sponsor of the sport currently provides.

“Tim (Blanchard) has done a really great job of putting it all together and I can honestly say we have all of the right ingredients to achieve some good things.

“Supercars is an extremely competitive and tough category, so we are under no illusions that it’s going to be easy, but in saying that, I’m excited to show everyone what we will be capable of.

“I’m also very fortunate to have the continued support from long-time supporter James Rosenberg. James has become a great friend over the years and I look forward to having him around the team again just like the old JRR SBR days.”

Tim has enjoyed a distinguished career in Supercars competition dating back to 2009,

38

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

which culminated in 2019 when he paired with Supercars Championship winner Scott McLaughlin at the Bathurst 1000.

To date, Tim has amassed a total of 334 Supercars race starts, two wins, 17 podium places and two pole positions, with his resume also including a pair of World Time Attack Challenge victories, and a second-place finish in the Australian Formula Ford Championship.

His best overall Supercars Championship result to date is fifth.

“For CoolDrive Auto Parts and the entire Blanchard family, this announcement is the result of a long-term commitment to Supercars racing, and is very exciting for all involved,” BRT Co-Principal, Tim Blanchard, said.

“We joined with Brad Jones Racing in 2016 in a customer relationship, it was a good run over those years, we learned a lot, but now it is time for us to stand on our own two feet.

“Our long term vision by investing in a Racing Entitlements Contract was to one day control our own destiny, with Supercars still providing the

perfect platform to promote our core automotive business.

“We’re investing strongly in this project with high-quality equipment, a top-line facility, and very skilled people.

“We also thought it fitting to rename the outfit to Blanchard Racing Team to appropriately reflect the entire Blanchard family’s involvement in the team, and passion and commitment to the sport.

Motorsport is who we are, it is in our family’s DNA. “Tim is a great asset for the team, he brings a lot of experience and speed, which is important for a single-car outfit. I have known him for a very long time, and have a lot of respect for his ability.

“I can’t wait for the 2021 season to get started.”

Blanchard Racing Team has also secured the services of Brendan Hogan, who has been appointed to the position of Team Manager.

Brendan comes to the team from Tickford Racing, where he was most recently the race engineer for James Courtney and Will Davison.

CoolDrive Auto Parts is a 100 percent Australian family-owned business, employing over 550 people at 35 branches across Australia and New Zealand.

CoolDrive says it has forged a reputation as a leader in the automotive aftermarket with a diverse line up of leading global brands, as well as the Jayair, Jayrad and Jaylec, HULK 4x4, Aunger and Ignite range of products representing CoolDrive’s own brands of quality air conditioning, radiator, electrical and lighting products.

The 12-round 2021 Supercars season kicks off at Mount Panorama Bathurst with a new 500km, single-driver event from February 26-28, and concludes on the streets of Surfers Paradise from December 3-5.

For more from CoolDrive, visit www.cooldrive.com.au