Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine - February 2021

FEBRUARY 2021

DRAFT MANDATORY DATA SHARING LEGISLATION RELEASED

BURSON AUTO PARTS MARKS 50 YEARS OF SUCCESS

AIC CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY

ABOUT THE COVER Tridon has been producing high quality hose clamps in its state-of-the-art facility in Sydney, New South Wales since 1976 and is a proud Australian manufacturer.

REGULAR DEPARTMENTS Calendar................................................ 4 New Members........................................ 4 AAAA Report ......................................... 5 News..................................................... 6 Products.............................................. 28

Business Services................................. 80 Consumer Law...................................... 82 HR Matters.......................................... 83 4WD.................................................... 84 Storefront............................................ 86

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KEEPING YOU INFORMED Recognising and rewarding apprentices........................................................................ 6 Draft Mandatory Data Sharing Legislation released......................................................... 7 AIC celebrates first anniversary.................................................................................... 9 Brake testing in Australia.......................................................................................... 10 VET overhaul should encourage future automotive workforce......................................... 12 Franchising success with Pedders.............................................................................. 13 A positive end to a tough year.................................................................................... 14 Begin your automotive career today............................................................................ 16

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FEATURES Cover Story: Tridon - Using the right hose clamp is more important than you think.......... 20 Technofile: Opus IVS tackles Range Rover elecrical issue.............................................. 22 Product R&D: Harrop arms Titan for battle.................................................................... 24 Member Feature: Milwaukee - Seeing red..................................................................... 64 Lubricants, Fluids & Chemicals: All the latest on fluids, lubricants and chemicals............. 66 Hand Tools & Diagnositics: Keeping on top of technical nuances..................................... 74 Trade Talk: BAPCOR Retail - Customer focus key to retail success................................. 78 Industry Awareness: Warranties: who is responsible?...................................................... 81

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

CAB Audited

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

EDITOR Allan Edwards

EDITORIAL Tel 61 3 9372 9125

PRODUCTION MANAGER Brigid Fraser, Tel 61 3 9505 0121

Official publication of the AAAA

ADVERTISING Tel 61 3 9545 3333

PUBLISHER Cameron McLachlan

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

AAAA NEWS

NEW MEMBERS

CALENDAR 2021-2022

A1 Autoparts Burpengary

Genie Exhaust

ACE Mechanics Melbourne Pty Ltd

Highbury Automotive Service and Repairs

Unit 2 / 8 Short Street DANDENONG VIC 3175 Ph: 1800 223 263 E: peter.gray@acemechanics.com.au

121 Tolley Road ST AGNES SA 5097 Ph: 08 8264 2380 E: highburyautos@hotmail.com

Auto Keepers

Hyper BMW PowerSports

1C/185 Station Road BURPENGARY QLD 4505 Ph: 07 3888 0255 E: parts@burpengaryautospares.com.au

Taipei AMPA Teipei Nangang Exhibitor Center 14 – 17 April 2021 www.taipeiampa.com.tw/

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

12 Ferry Road West End WEST END QLD 4101 Ph: 1800 533 737 E: cody@autokeepers.com.au

44 Magpie Drive CAMBOOYA QLD 4358 Ph: 0406 151 067 E: brendan@hyper-racing.net

Autopro Leongatha

2-4 Keppler Circuit SEAFORD VIC 3198 Ph: 03 9770 3000 E: joee@nutech.com.au

3 Michael Place LEONGATHA VIC 3953 Ph: 03 5662 3395 E: sales@leongatha.autopro.com.au Bayzoil Truck & Autospares

Automechanika Frankfurt

68 Boat Harbour Drive PIALBA QLD 4655 Ph: 07 4124 8701 E: admin@bayzoil.com.au

Frankfurt am Main 14 – 18 September 2021 www.automechanika.messefrankfurt.com

Bosch Car Service Caboolture

10/23-35 Skyreach Street CABOOLTURE QLD 4510 Ph: 07 5408 6004 E: clarkesmobileauto@gmail.com

AAPEX

Bosch Car Service Gunnedah

Sands Expo & Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, NV 2 – 4 November 2021 www.aapexshow.com

Las Vegas Convention Center, NV 2 – 5 November 2021 www.semashow.com

Automechanika Shanghai

Performance Racing Industry Trade Show Indiana Convention Center, Indianapolis, Indiana 9 – 11 December 2021 www.performanceracing.com/tradeshow

PLI Australia Pty Ltd (Petronas Lubricants)

Suite 2, Level 6, 65 George St PARRAMATTA NSW 2150 Ph: 02 8833 4200 E: arash.salehi@pli-petronas.com Polish Investment and Trade Agency JSC

Sourcemost Australia Pty Ltd

Brase 360

SupaFit Seat Covers

BSC Performance

The Auto Detective Pty Ltd

7 Industry Boulevard CARRUM DOWNS VIC 3201 Ph: 0425 855 036 E: brendon@bscperformance.com.au

22 Boskenna Avenue NORWOOD SA 5067 Ph: 0421 504 096 E: admin@autodetective.com.au

Cateran Pty Ltd

UAB Maxauto Baltic

15D / 56 Keys Road CHELTENHAM VIC 3192 Ph: 03 9191 2090 E: malmeleh@cateran.net.au

Rieses g. 2 Riese Vilniaus raj. LT-14260 Lithuania Ph: 653 52213 E: dainius@apt-24.com

Correct Automotive

UFI Filters India Private Limited

Darwin Diagnostics & Performance

Shop 3 WINNELLIE NT 0812 Ph: 0402 198 941 E: john@ddpnt.com.au

Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre, Malaysia 15 – 17 March 2022 www.automechanika-kualalumpur.hk.messefrankfurt.com

5 Hakea Place MEADOW HEIGHTS VIC 3048 Ph: 0433 398 615 E: info.oaptech@gmail.com

Bosch Car Service Walliston

469 Alice Street MARYBOROUGH QLD 4650 Ph: 07 4121 5644 E: correctautorepairs@bigpond.com

Automechanika Kuala Lumpur

Optimum AutoParts Technologies

Level 30, Governor Phillip Tower, 1 Farrer Place SYDNEY NSW 2000 Ph: 0451 276 023 E: jakub.wilchelm@paih.gov.pl

56 Sharpes Road MINERS REST VIC 3352 Ph: 0431 528 699 E: braseyourself@gmail.com

National Exhibition & Convention Center, Puxi, Shanghai 24 – 27 November 2021 www.automechanika-shanghai.hk.messefrankfurt.com

Nutech Paint Pty Ltd

48 Conadilly Street GUNNEDAH NSW 2380 Ph: 02 6742 0143 E: info@gunnedahdieselservice.com 1/ 16 Laurence Road WALLISTON WA 6076 Ph: 08 9291 9535 E: petrotechnics@iinet.net.au

SEMA

30 Shields Crescent BOORAGOON WA 6154 Ph: 08 9330 6900 E: accounts@genie-exhaust.com.au

Eagle Products Corporation

2/ 61 Jack Williams Drive PENRITH NSW 2750 Ph: 02 4721 5003 E: sarah@eagleproducts.com.au

12/7-15 Gundah Road MOUNT KURING-GAI NSW 2080 Ph: 0425 181 747 E: jeremylin@sourcemost.com.au 2/107 Dowd Street WELSHPOOL WA 6106 Ph: 03 9358 6244 E: peter@supafitseatcovers.com.au

Plot No. 123, BCD, Hsiidc Growth Centre BAWAL, HARYANA 123501 India Ph: 012 784 270 101 E: martina.liberati@icloud.com Visscher Caravelle Australia

Unit 2/97 Glendenning Road GLENDENNING NSW 2761 Ph: 02 9832 1500 E: tlawlor@vcamats.com.au Werevr 4x4 Accessories

57 Tom Smith Drive SOUTH NANANGO QLD 4615 Ph: 0418 529 266 E: sales@werevr4x4accessories.com.au

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

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

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

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

DIRECTORS

Stuart Charity Chief Executive Officer

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

Sean Buckley (VIC), Ultra Tune Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9815 9200

Craig Magill (VIC), Burson Automotive Pty Ltd Ph: 03 9914 5555

Darren Robinson (VIC), HELLA Australia Pty Ltd Ph: 1800 061 729

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

Steve Lewis (QLD), Supercheap Auto Ph: 07 3482 7900

Adam Pay (NSW), mycar Tyre & Auto Service Ph: 02 9680 6500

Graham Scudamore-Smith (QLD) Fulcrum Suspensions Pty Ltd Ph: 07 3892 9000

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Mark Pedder Chairman

AAAA NEWS

HAPPY NEW YEAR AND WELCOME TO 2021

I hope you had some time to relax and recharge during the holiday break Since my last column, I have two significant industry updates that I would like to share with you.

The first is that we received a draft law for mandatory data sharing, called the ‘Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme.’

Receiving this draft law in late December 2020 was a historic moment for the AAAA. I know I have talked about how significant this legislation will be for our industry for many years, so to finally have the draft in our hands is fantastic.

It is a testament to the strength and ongoing commitment of our members and the AAAA team, who worked tirelessly to make this a reality.

We have reviewed the draft bill and I am happy to say there were no real surprises. I can see from the explanatory notes that accompany the law, that the government has every intention of delivering a scheme that is genuinely designed to do what we have been campaigning for, which is to achieve open industry competition so that consumers have true choice of automotive repairer and competitive pricing. We have been working through the wording of the draft law in detail to ensure it reflects its intent and have provided our feedback to government as part of the short industry consultation process. For more information on the draft legislation, including next steps, see our article on page 7.

While celebrating the arrival of the long-awaited draft law, we were quickly bought ‘back down to earth’ with a surprising announcement from the ACCC. In not so positive news, the ACCC decided they will not revoke the Mitsubishi Motors Australia Ltd Exclusive Dealing Notification.

For those unfamiliar with this situation, last year Mitsubishi Australia began offering an extended warranty of 10 years, or 200,000kms, with the

final five years of the warranty conditional on the vehicle being serviced only by authorised Mitsubishi dealers and service centres. In our opinion, this was one of the more trade restrictive moves we have seen from a car manufacturer. We immediately lodged a submission arguing against this exclusive dealing notification to the ACCC. The ACCC was inundated with submissions from the independent service and repair segment (over 150 submissions were lodged), to formally object to this proposal.

We will continue our fight against this warranty.

The process is not over, and we are well prepared to fight for consumers’ rights and fair competition. We have long been concerned about extended warranties because consumers already worry about not having choice, and this move by Mitsubishi clearly shows their intent to restrict consumer choice long term. I also fear this marketing tactic heralds the beginning of a practice that, if not stopped now, will flow on to every other major brand in our market. This is an example of why we dedicate so much of our resources to ensuring we are always ready to identify these threats and able to respond quickly and comprehensively on behalf of members.

Despite the ACCC decision, it is worth noting that within the ACCC’s explanatory statement (which you can view at http://bit.ly/ACCC-Mitsubishi) there are many references that the decision stands ‘at this time’. The notification can in fact be revoked at any time. The statement provides some optimism that we have a clear opportunity to consider how we can prove our case. Also, the ACCC did not state that the Mitsubishi marketing offer provides consumer benefit. This notification has not been allowed to stand because it is good for car owners and the ACCC points out that they did not arrive at that conclusion.

We will shortly meet with the ACCC to discuss their reasoning behind the decision. What we want to know is how the ACCC did not factor in the future behaviour of OEMs and importantly what the ACCC will do with the next application(s). The outcome of this meeting will help us determine our next moves.

Although the ACCC decision was disappointing, I do not want you to feel discouraged. Our fight on mandatory data sharing included many setbacks, and look where we are today – I have a copy of the draft legislation on my desk. We are well known for our tenacity and our resilience, so watch this space.

We need to keep our eye on the bigger picture too. We believe extended warranties do not bring benefit to car owners and they reduce consumer rights to true choice and price competition. To this end, we are planning a consumer education campaign. The goal is to inform car owners that they should not get misled by extended warranty deals. New car owners already have an extended warranty – it is in their statutory rights under the Australian Consumer Law. The car companies are not going to tell consumers that – so we will.

We will not let the ACCC decision on Mitsubishi detract from our enormous win with Mandatory Data Sharing. And, knowing our industry as well as I do, I know you will remain positive and together we will succeed in achieving our goal of a stable, healthy and prosperous industry.

Finally, I would love you to visit www.aaaa.com. au. We have refreshed our website and it looks impressive. The new design reflects the diverse, energetic and innovative nature of our industry, and importantly, it is easier to navigate so you can get to the services you want, faster. Members can easily access our research and business tools, view subjects relating to their specific market segment and download our Choice of Repairer materials, plus much more. We hope you like it.

STUART CHARITY Chief Executive Officer Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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NEWS

NEW GRANTS, SCHEMES RECOGNISING AND REWARDING APPRENTICES ANNOUNCED In this column, Capricorn Society’s Group Chief Executive Officer, David Fraser, discusses the 2021 Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition Capricorn is once again running the Capricorn Rising Stars Apprentice of the Year competition in 2021, providing an opportunity for our Members to show their apprentices they are on the right track and have a bright future ahead of them.

Nominations are open now and by recognising and rewarding our high performing apprentices, we hope to retain them in the industry long term.

Members simply need to let us know why their apprentice is a repairer of the future, and Capricorn will contact their nominee directly with a few questions to get to know more about them.

Capricorn Rising Stars is unique as it does not focus solely on technical proficiency, instead rewarding apprentices who demonstrate a passion for automotive, a positive can-do attitude and a strong commitment to forging a long and rewarding career in the industry.

This unique judging criteria creates a level playing field for first to fourth year apprentices across all automotive service and repair disciplines.

The 2021 Capricorn Rising Stars prize pool once again makes nominating your star apprentice very rewarding.

The overall winner will receive $5,000 from Castrol, a Capricorn Rising Stars trophy, along with all of the prizes that the top five finalists receive. These include $1,000 from Castrol, a $1,000 Repco voucher and tickets to two Repco Training Masterclasses.

The prizes do not stop there either – the Capricorn Member workshops who nominate the top five finalists will also be rewarded with a 12-month Repco Autopedia subscription. Additionally, the overall winner’s workshop will receive enrollment in the Workshop Whisperer’s Service Advisor Pro online program, which is valued at over $3,000.

Capricorn thanks long-term Capricorn Rising Stars program sponsors Castrol, Repco and the Workshop Whisperer, who have donated these fantastic prizes.

If you are a Capricorn Member, I strongly encourage you to nominate your apprentice today. Nominations close 30 April 2021 - visit www.capricornrisingstars.com for more info.

Yours cooperatively, David Fraser Group CEO, Capricorn Society Ltd For more on Capricorn Society membership, visit www.capricorn.coop

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Businesses in Victoria and New South Wales should be aware of the following opportunities available to them

Several opportunities are available for businesses in Victoria and New South Wales, as follows.

VIC: Small Business Digital Adaptation Program The Victorian Small Business Digital Adaptation Program is open for applications until funds are exhausted, or until 11.59pm local time on the 28th of February, 2021. The Program will allow eligible businesses to trial and then receive access to digital products, tools and training they can use to build digital capability in their day-to-day operations. Businesses can start using a new product, like point-of-sale payment, or upgrade existing digital tools. Businesses will be able to register, and trial selected digital products from suppliers who have partnered with the Victorian Government, then choose one of these products to purchase.

For more information, go to www.business.vic.gov.au

VIC: Free COVID QR code check-in system for businesses The Victorian Government has launched a free QR Code Service to help businesses keep an electronic record of visitors to their premises, as per COVIDSafe plan requirements. Business owners will only need to register their business, download and print a poster containing a Victorian Government QR Code, and display it prominently. Visitors simply need to scan the QR code using their smartphone, and their data will be held securely for 28 days unless it is requested by the Department of Health and Human Services. Use of the Victorian Government’s QR Code Service is not mandatory, and businesses or venues that are currently using an existing QR code solution may continue to do so.

For more information, visit www.premier.vic.gov.au/new-check-system-businesses-across-victoria

NSW: Licensing fees discounted for COVID-19 relief From 28 October 2020, a discount applies to all motor vehicle licensing applications processed from 1 April 2020 to 31 March 2021. The discount is equal to 12 months’ worth of your licensing fee paid during the COVID-19 emergency period. Refunds are available if the full application fee was paid from 1 April 2020.

Refunds will be done automatically through electronic payment details, or if there is not an account on file a request for bank details will be sent via a posted letter and an email. Refunds will be processed over the coming months.

For more information, go to www.dmirs.wa.gov.au

NSW: Government Export Assistance Grants The Export Assistance Grant program provides reimbursement to eligible businesses to help them recover from the impacts of COVID-19, bushfires, and drought on their international markets. There is a reimbursement of 50 percent of eligible expenses incurred since 1 January 2020, up to a maximum of $10,000 per eligible business is available for current or previously exporting businesses enabling access to new or re-entering previous markets. Funding is available for export marketing and development activities, such as market research, participation in international tradeshows and trade missions, inbound business support, e-commerce development and marketing materials. This grant is available to exporters that were established prior to the impacts of COVID-19, bushfires and/or drought only.

At the time of printing, no closing date for this grant has been published.

For more information, visit www.global.nsw.gov.au/nsw-government-export-assistance-grants If you require assistance regarding any of the above, contact info@aaaa.com.au

NEWS

DRAFT MANDATORY DATA SHARING LEGISLATION RELEASED The consultation period has now closed and mandatory data sharing is one step closer to being law In late December, the Federal Government announced its intention to introduce The Motor Vehicle Service and Repair Information Sharing Scheme to Parliament in early 2021, releasing the legislation in draft form for consultation across January.

The new law will amend the Competition and Consumer Act (CCA) to establish a scheme for motor vehicle service and repair information to be shared with all Australian repairers and RTOs. (Registered Training Organisations) Its release implements the 29 October 2019 announcement by the Assistant Treasurer, the Honourable Michael Sukkar MP, that a scheme for the mandatory sharing of information would be implemented through primary legislation, providing a fairer playing field for the repair and service of the 74 automotive brands available in Australia in an industry worth $25 billion annually.

The release of the draft legislation followed nearly a decade of campaigning by the Australian Automotive Aftermarket Association (AAAA).

“This new law will make it unlawful for car companies to withhold information from qualified independent mechanics – keeping the cost of replacement parts, vehicle maintenance and repair affordable,” AAAA Director of Government Relations and Advocacy, Lesley Yates, said.

“The AAAA started campaigning for this law a decade ago and during that time, we have worked through two government enquiries and even through a voluntary agreement in 2014 which ultimately failed to resolve the anti-competitive behaviour of some car brands in Australia.

“We are certainly pleased that after all this time, the enacting of legislation which will protect the aftermarket industry and its customers is now only months away.”

Content of the Draft Legislation The AAAA has examined the contents of the draft legislation closely and provided careful feedback to the Treasury, which will be responsible for finalising the draft law before its submission to Parliament.

“Overall, we are pretty comfortable with the intent of the legislation. It is a competition instrument as an amendment to the CCA which is fantastic because after all, the intention of the legislation is to ensure fair competition,” Lesley said.

“There are some pretty clear obligations for the car manufacturers, but of course upon its release the question on everyone’s lips was ‘are there gaps the manufacturers could possibly exploit?’

“From our analysis, we believe the legislation drafters have done a pretty sound job of anticipating what loopholes might arise and proactively closing them.

“There are also significant penalties for breaching the main obligations of the act – at the highest level, we are talking about 10 million dollars, so that is impressive and makes for a pretty serious piece of legislation.

“It is our belief the intent and the architecture of the draft legislation is strong, and the industry should take some comfort that the foundations are sound.

“As is to be expected with any draft legislation, there are some areas we have felt the need to make comment on, and we have submitted that feedback on behalf of our industry.

“For one, there is some wording we feel is inconsistent with the legislation objectives. For instance, while the objective is to provide fair and open competition, there is mention in the draft of allowing car companies up to two days to respond to data requests. So clearly, this is one area where we have had to provide some input as we feel this delay in providing data goes against the intention of the legislation.

“There are also some constraints around electric vehicles, autonomous vehicles, and telematics.

We have had some very productive conversations with the government around this and feel this is a case of better wording being required, so we have provided example alternative language as part of our feedback to assist in these areas.

“The draft law also doesn’t articulate the role of pass-through technology or data aggregators.

While they are not specifically mentioned, we can see there is an expectation that they are part of the solution. But even so, we would like to see the draft law be more specific in these areas, especially around pass-through technology, and we have included commentary to explain that pass-through is critical in diagnosis and software updates.

“As a whole, we have to say this draft law is a strong step forward. At the AAAA, we are quite optimistic that we have a constructive relationship with the government, and we have framed our comments in a constructive manner offering good alternatives, and we are very hopeful our suggested amendments will be well considered.”

Next steps Following the closure of the consultation period, the Treasury is now finalising the draft law ahead of introducing it to Parliament during the Autumn

session, at which point the AAAA encourages its members to contact their local MPs to thank them for their support of the law and encourage their ongoing support as it moves through Parliament.

It is important to be aware this legislation could be amended at any time as it passes through Parliament, so the AAAA will be monitoring the legislation’s progress and taking advantage of all opportunities to talk to the Parliamentarians who have been supportive of this law and help to work it through both houses.”

Once passed, the law will officially become active as of 1 July 2022 and between the date the law is proclaimed and when it becomes active, the Scheme Rules will be created.

“The Act provides for an industry advisor to be appointed by the Minister. This Advisor can be an individual or an organisation. There is an expectation this advisory role will be fulfilled by a new industry body which will be formed by two representatives each from the AAAA, the Australian Automobile Association (AAA), the Australian Automotive Dealer Association (AADA), the Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries (FCAI) and the Motor Trades Association of Australia (MTAA),” Lesley explained.

“This body will be known as the Australian Automotive Service and Repair Authority (ASRA) and will work with the government on the design of the Scheme Rules, which will provide data, guidelines and instructions about how repairers can access security and safety information as well as more detail around dispute resolution.

“There will be a lot of work to be done across the second half of 2021 and early 2022 in building the framework, and it is a challenge that we are very excited to be a part of upon the successful passing of this exciting new law.”

To view the draft legislation, go to www.treasury.gov.au/consultation/c2020-128289 If you have questions around the draft legislation, please contact info@aaaa.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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NEWS

APG MOVES IN Auto Parts Group Sydney has officially moved into its ultra-modern new facility Auto Parts Group (APG) has now completed the move into its new Smithfield warehouse facility.

The facility has a 100 percent capacity increase over the previous location and is designed for 24,000sqm of storage.

APG says it houses a modern warehouse design encapsulating everything from racking positioning and combining the likes of shelving and hanging locations.

BRAKE TESTING IN AUSTRALIA SafeTstop says road users are at risk How safe is safe? SafeTstop says this question brought about a landmark study into current brake safety testing.

With assistance from the Federal Government, SafeTstop commissioned the University of Adelaide to put current testing protocols under the microscope.

“This is the first independent study into brake testing methods in 30 years, and it showed local standards to be grossly outdated,” SafeTstop Managing Director, Richard Gartner, said.

“Across Australia and New Zealand, passenger vehicles require only rudimentary stopping abilities to be considered roadworthy.

“Current safety testing is inadequate to find brake faults in our cars. The study found a vehicle would pass with a brake fault that would increase stopping distances by up to 75 percent (or 20 meters when travelling at 80 km/hour).

20 meters is the difference between life, serious injury, or death.”

The latest in Warehouse Management Systems (WMS) are the brains driving efficiency in the parts receival, storage, pick and dispatch life cycle.

APG’s WMS also automates the parts locating process, optimising which parts are a best fit for each physical bay size and location.

Parts to person pick strategies have been optimised into the design, with conveyors reducing the need for manual handling of parts.

APG says even the external building design combines on grade and recessed roller doors, further improving the goods receival and dispatch processes.

Further, the facility’s Green Star Approval is said to be measurable action of APG working towards a near zero carbon footprint.

“This new Sydney facility reaffirms our long-term commitment and service level to the region’s customers, through increased product capacity, faster supply, and reduced parts handling in the supply process,” APG National Sales and Marketing Manager, Scott Glover, said.

“That time saved equals cycle time benefit to you and money in your back pocket now and into the future. We’d like to extend a thank you to all clients for making this transition possible.”

APG has put together a ‘drone tour’ of the new facility, which can be viewed at www.autopartsgroup.com.au/weve-moved-in and also on its Facebook, YouTube or Instagram pages.

For more from Auto Parts Group, visit www.autopartsgroup.com.au 8

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Testing Summary: Decelerometer Roller Plate

Brake Brake

Tester Tester Can accurately test against government requirements?

Only Deceleration

SOME

YES

Can measure left to right imbalance?

NO

SOME

YES

Can measure front to rear brake bias?

NO

NO

YES

Measures deceleration?

YES

SOME

YES

With the rear brakes not functioning at all, and the front reduced by 33 percent pressure, this scenario was the only one to fail a roadworthy test with the declerometer with all others passing.

SafeTstop says the roller tester struggled to measure deceleration and only identified brake imbalance on the rear axle (not the front axle), stating it cannot measure front to rear brake bias.

With smaller adjustments, the SafeTstop reportedly identified the problem consistently and accurately.

It states faulty brakes can be detected, but they are not required to be, and haphazard brake testing is administered by a fractured system with little uniformity across jurisdictions.

“Mechanical workshops and dealerships use outdated technology leading to motorists being misled about the safety of their cars. Technology has advanced, and testing is available that can be done in seconds, identifying faulty brakes.”

Richard said.

For the study, a common passenger vehicle was modified to allow exact adjustment of brake pressure to individual wheels, with sensors to validate those adjustments. Ten different adjustments were made, imitating the effects of common brake faults.

A baseline comparison for the study was a stopping distance test conducted with state-ofthe-art measuring equipment, and measurements in the study were audited by the National Measurement Institute.

The SafeTstop plate brake tester identified and measured reductions in brake performance in all ten situations. The other methods tested were the roller brake tester (equipment provided by the SA government for his study) and a decelerometer (brand new and calibrated). In some situations, SafeTstop says this equipment either falsely passed or falsely failed a brake test.

SafeTstop says it was shown in the stopping distance test, that a vehicle travelling at 80 km/h will take up to 70 percent longer to stop – a frightening 20 meters – before it fails regulatory brake tests.

All the above scenarios passed regulatory safety testing, except the last one (J)

In the case of a 34 percent brake pressure reduction to one front wheel, the test vehicle took 21 percent longer to stop (5.8 meters) from 80 km/h.

SafeTstop says these faults would endanger lives but would still pass roadworthy/registration requirements with the other two test methods, stating these findings are very alarming when applied to what happens on our roads.

Brakes may have electronic systems that support or enhance their performance, but SafeTstop says the basic mechanical processes have not changed for decades; they will remain the same when our cars become more autonomous.

SafeTstop explained it will be taking this report to governing bodies and motoring and safety groups across Australia to bring about improved brake testing in Australia, and safer roads as a result.

The full report is available to read at http://casr.adelaide.edu.au/publications/list/?id=1915 For more from SafeTstop, visit www.safetstop.com

NEWS

AIC CELEBRATES FIRST ANNIVERSARY The AIC team is looking forward to a blockbuster 2021 ahead In December of 2019, the Auto Innovation Centre opened to great fanfare in Melbourne and in the 12 months since, the AIC and its dedicated team have grown from strength to strength despite the challenges of COVID-19, kicking goals for clients and impressing with its specialised industry focus and customised service offerings.

For AIC Managing Director Luke Truskinger, it has been an exceptionally rewarding first year despite sometimes tumultuous circumstances.

“When we launched, the AIC was certainly a very new type of business with a lot of unknowns and that is still true today,” Luke said.

“Before opening, we undertook in-depth industry consultation to ensure we launched with the best possible service offering at the time which we have further developed and evolved over the ensuing 12 months.

“Plenty of opportunities have also come out of the woodwork, more than we could have imagined, and this means we have been constantly learning and evolving even in our young age.

“It truly has been an exciting year and despite the impacts of COVID-19, I feel incredibly happy with how the year has unfolded. Most importantly, we have a lot of happy customers!”

Across the year, the Centre has undertaken a great number of varied projects for clients of all shapes and sizes.

“There have been some really interesting projects across the year for a large number of companies in the Australian automotive aftermarket – including but not limited to AAAA members,” Luke said.

“The list of clients who have been impressed by our state-of-the-art facilities and the role we can play in their product development activities is satisfyingly impressive. In particular we have been proud to support a number of companies through the Automotive Innovation Lab Access Grants (AILAG) program, and with the subsequent development work.

“For example, for Disc Brakes Australia we carried out a customised test program for their Composite Disc Brake Rotor for High Performance Applications as part of the AILAG program. Our Ford Mustang V8, data measuring and logging equipment was

fitted with the DBA prototype brake components, and we conducted testing at Sandown Raceway to put the components through their paces as part of a customised testing program.

“For Impact Import Group, we sourced a fleet of vehicles and generated 3D scan data and postprocessing to enable their modular Gen 2 KUFU Vehicle Storage System to be developed for a wide range of vehicles as part of another AILAG program.

“For Saber Off-Road, we supported the development of a range of soft-rope friendly safe recovery equipment by 3D printing prototypes in various colours and materials. This helped Saber sign off the products with confidence prior to expensive tooling.

“It is so refreshing to hear people say we are helping them and making a positive impact to their businesses. No matter what the project, we are committed to going above and beyond to ensure our customers are satisfied and this won’t change moving forward.”

The services mentioned in the examples above are just some of the ways in which the AIC can assist its clientele.

Across 2020, the Centre grew to offer not only access to vehicles and the use of the workshop for test fitting, but also 3D scanning and post processing; 3D printing; dynamic vehicle testing and ADAS calibration; a fully-fitted out training facility; laboratory-spec tensile/compression testing and a Damper Dynamometer.

“Looking back to the facilities’ beginnings, it is unreal to see the huge shift we undertook and how far the entire facility here in Victoria has grown and developed. It is something everyone who has been involved is immensely proud of,” Luke said.

“It is a shame that for the majority of 2020 we weren’t able to invite members of the industry through the facility, but despite the hurdles we have faced, we have still been able to turn on a lot of our business lines which has seen us grow from strength to strength.”

Top of the line equipment is only part of the story at the AIC, with expert staff and a strong relationship with the AAAA allowing the Centre to be a leading force in the marketplace.

“Our relationship with the AAAA truly sets us apart, as the Association is able to support us from a regulatory and government relations point of view.

Having them at our side allows us to provide our customers with not just testing services, but also credible and reliable advice around what testing is required, the latest updates from lobbying activity, and more.

“This is a real point of difference for us, as we can provide support to companies who are facing issues with regulators as opposed to offering a ‘vanilla’ testing service.”

With a successful 2020 now concluded, Luke is looking forward to a promising 2021.

“The year ahead is certainly looking fantastic,” Luke said.

“In the next 12 months, we are looking to grow our vehicle fleet and bring online new testing equipment, including hydraulic structural and vibration testing. We will also be growing our scanning capabilities, as this is one area where we have really grown across 2020 and we want to see that continue.

“We procured premium scanning and postprocessing equipment to ensure the best possible data could be created and we have also implemented a process of performing comprehensive teardowns of our own vehicles and building a vehicle data library. The feedback has been that those efforts have been very much appreciated and in 2021 we look forward to launching our AIC database and subscriber program to enable customers easier access to our data and services.

“Also coming up which is extremely exciting is the launch of the South Australia AIC facility in the first quarter of 2021, which will certainly have a big impact for us and the industry.

“While we have been able to connect many companies with mutual interests or capabilities together across the year through our vast network to enable more efficient product development, we are certainly looking forward to an increased ability to welcome visitors and clients from all around Australia and we are hopeful that 2021 will bring better conditions to facilitate that.”

For more information on the AIC, please visit www.autoic.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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BAPCOR CONTINUES TO GROW Its Burson Trade business in Australia is said to be “perfectly on track” to reach its 240 store goal Australia and Asia Pacific automotive aftermarket industry leader, BAPCOR, says it continues to set new benchmarks in business growth despite the disruption faced during 2020.

BAPCOR says its strategically planned growth programs for each end of the automotive aftermarket supply chain include significant improvements across the company’s Trade, Specialist Wholesale and Retail segments located in Australia, New Zealand and in Asia.

The BAPCOR FY21 First Quarter Trading Update to the Australian Stock Exchange (ASX:BAP) outlined significant revenue growth that was achieved across each of the Australian company’s automotive aftermarket segments. BAPCOR Group companies achieved 27 percent revenue growth during this highly challenging period, which it says clearly underlies the robust strength of its automotive aftermarket businesses.

With more than 1,100 locations in Australia and across the Asia-Pacific region, following a strategy of organic growth and a series of perfectly mated

automotive business acquisitions since 2011, BAPCOR says its commitment to continued growth for each of its business segments is delivering significant and impressive results.

The Australian company has achieved this despite the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic by remaining committed to its planned growth path. BAPCOR is investing significantly in the important areas of information technology, eCommerce, process and system upgrades as well as marketing. Capital investment in new facilities continues to increase the company’s already “unrivalled” Asia Pacific footprint.

BAPCOR says its exciting five-year growth targets for each of its business segments herald a very exciting future for the proudly Australian owned company.

Each of BAPCOR’s segments are focused “specialists,” whether they are trade, retail, truck or across the various wholesale businesses. The company says it recognises the needs of the different customer bases and treats every customer

group with the specialised focus that they deserve.

Put simply, trade customers have different requirements to retail customers; electrical specialist workshops have different needs to general automotive workshops - and as such BAPCOR structures its businesses accordingly.

BAPCOR says its Burson Trade business in Australia is perfectly on track to reach its 240 Burson Auto Parts store target, having reached the 190 store milestone in October, 2020. This business has always targeted geographic locations to best suit its industry leading workshop customer base and will continue to do so to best service the automotive repairers and service centres around Australia.

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

VIVA ENERGY APPRENTICE AWARD ANNOUNCED Chelsea Bowers has been announced as the TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Light Automotive Apprentice of the Year Viva Energy Australia Pty Ltd (“Viva Energy”) is the exclusive distributor of Shell Lubricants in Australia and says that in partnership with TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech it is delighted to announce Chelsea Bowers as the TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Light Automotive Apprentice of the Year for 2020.

The award was announced as part of TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech’s annual Apprentices Awards. Viva Energy proudly supported the award and says it continues to work in partnership with TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech to support the training of the next generation of Australian automotive and heavy-duty diesel technicians.

Chelsea was nominated by her employer, John Edwards from John Edwards Automotive, who said Chelsea is a great apprentice who brings a lot of enthusiasm and excitement to the job.

In addition to other prizes, Chelsea will spend a day with the Shell V-Power Racing Team at the Dick Johnson Racing Team workshop learning about the skills and preparation required in a professional racing car environment.

“To be nominated for the TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Apprentice Awards is an absolute blessing,” Chelsea said.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

“I feel noticed, loved and a part of the community.

My career aspirations for the future would be to support more women into the workshop. I’d even like to visit schools and inspire other women to try a trade and see if they like it.”

This is the third year that Viva Energy has sponsored the TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Apprentice Awards. Cathie Woods, Resources Marketing Manager at Viva Energy, said the company was pleased to sponsor the award.

“We are really proud to be involved with TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech, and presenting this award to Chelsea for excellence in her apprenticeship,” Cathie said.

“It is well-deserved recognition for all of her hard work. I hope she enjoys the award and the day with the Shell V-Power racing team.”

TAFE Queensland - SkillsTech General Manager, John Tucker said, “Chelsea is just one of our award winners and nominees who will go on to become future leaders in their industries, helping to build a stronger and more skilled workforce.”

“Our apprentices and their employers all had to navigate through a challenging year and it’s wonderful to be able to acknowledge and commend those who have really gone above and beyond.”

“We have so many incredible tradespeople and we hope that the TAFE Queensland – SkillsTech Apprentice Awards provides these men and women with the recognition they deserve, as well as inspiring others to be the best they can be.””

The partnership between TAFE Queensland SkillsTech and Viva Energy offers apprentices the opportunity to access and use high quality Shell lubricants during their course on campus, as well as receiving training from lubricants technical experts in automotive and heavy-duty lubrication.

For more information about apprenticeships and trade training, visit www.tafeqld.edu.au or call 1300 308 233 today.

For more from Viva Energy, visit www.vivaenergy.com.au

NEWS

AUTOMECHANIKA SHANGHAI LAUDED AS HYBRID SUCCESS The December 2020 show combined an on-site fair with the AMS Live online program Despite ongoing travel restrictions rippling around the world, Automechanika Shanghai was held as planned across December 2 to 5, with organisers saying the show has reinforced market optimism in the automotive industry.

Reaching across six continents, the show convened exhibitors from 29 countries and regions, maintaining its position as a global assembly point.

Key figures for Automechanika Shanghai 2020 include: • Onsite visitors: 79,863 • Exhibitors: 3,845 • Scale: 280,000 sqm • Online visits through AMS Live: 578,000 from 150 countries and regions • 652 pre-arranged online and onsite business matching appointments • 62 fringe events • 49 hybrid programmes broadcasted on AMS Live Show organisers stated that activities at the National Exhibition and Convention Center, Shanghai, as well as many of the services and tools being offered to participants mirrored the latest trends and technological advancements spurred on by COVID-19.

For example, new integrated solutions powered by AMS Live created new lines of communication for onsite exhibitors connecting with global partners and prospective suppliers.

One-to-one online meetings, business matching, chat rooms and agenda setting functions were just a handful of the features available.

On top of this, livestreamed activities added a touch of excitement to the overall trade fair experience, producing innovative opportunities for companies to market their latest products, technologies and solutions to a wider online audience.

The show continued to promote the entire supply chain through seven dedicated sectors and three specialised zones. Synergy in Parts & Components, Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility and Electronics & Connectivity shone a light on digitalisation and the growing desires from consumers to see greener industry.

The Diagnostics & Repair / Body & Paint, Accessories, Customising and REIFEN (Tyres & Wheels) also reflected many of the cross-collaborative opportunities in the aftermarket.

Elsewhere, the Auto Manufacturing, Services & Supply Chain, and Remanufacturing zones zoomed in on ground-breaking technologies and business models from industry leaders in their respective fields.

Organisers also launched a range of new formats in the fringe programme for onsite and remote participants. The Automotive Aftermarket Summit, AIAG Auto Parts Purchasing Leadership and Suppliers Summit, China Automobile Dealers New Trend Development Forum, China International Tyre Industry Conference, International Summit of Connected-Vehicle Policies and Regulations and Tomorrow’s Service & Mobility Summit were amongst events relaying the latest updates and developments throughout the upstream and downstream supply chain.

On top of this, many conferences, forums and webinars also discussed the effects of COVID-19 in the market and deeply examined the road to industry recovery.

“This edition of Automechanika Shanghai was very rewarding,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said.

“Our biggest ambition was to unite both overseas and domestic players in the industry in the face of the pandemic, and I firmly believe we succeeded.

“AMS Live was a critical part of the show’s infrastructure to accomplish this goal as it promoted business exchange and networking, as well as captured a true sense of activities around the fairground. I look forward to seeing how we can continue this momentum in 2021.”

The next edition of Automechanika Shanghai will take place from 24 – 27 November 2021. The event is organised by Messe Frankfurt (Shanghai) Co Ltd and the China National Machinery Industry International Co Ltd (Sinomachint).

For more information, contact Messe Frankfurt (HK) Ltd on + 852 2802 7728 or auto@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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ZF PRESENTS ITS DATA VENTURE ACCELERATOR Putting data business on the fast track At the all-digital CES 2021, ZF presented its new Data Venture Accelerator, a global venture data hub within ZF’s Innovation and Technology organisation.

The Data Venture Accelerator is reportedly being established to expand products that have successfully shown value and technology feasibility – from Innovative Proof of Concepts, to Mature Data Products. Turning such promising ventures into mature Data Businesses is the goal of the Data Venture Accelerator.

“ZF has had great success innovating valuable digital and data initiatives, and we now want to expand these approaches into scalable business offerings,” ZF Senior Vice President Corporate R&D, Innovation and Technology, Dr Dirk Walliser, said.

“With the Data Venture Accelerator we have developed an operational model which will allow such initiatives to more quickly and effectively translate into product offerings that will meet the needs of our customers and society.”

There are three major elements to the Data Venture Accelerator: 1. Venture “Speedboats” – independent, autonomous, multi-disciplinary teams

established solely to accelerate incubated data business to the market. Ventures are run like start-up companies and managed with Venture Capital-like governance.

2. Data Business Centers of Excellence (CoE) – Expert resources to ensure consistent application of processes, methods, and tools to each of the Venture “Speedboats.”

3. Joint Market Team – A paired team of ZF product-facing and dedicated Data business market experts, which will collaboratively work to address the needs of both existing and new customers.

Dr Walliser sees the Data Venture Accelerator as a key contributor to ZF’s future.

“ZF is able to generate added value and revenue for its customers with digital end-to-end data solutions and they will see more data product and service offerings from ZF resulting from the Data Venture Accelerator,” Dr Walliser said.

“As we develop greater Data Business proficiency, ZF will have expertise which will more effectively address customer and industry data needs.”

Using existing data intelligently As more and more components in vehicles are equipped with sensors and become “smart”

components, vehicles themselves become an enormous data source – because sensors collect data by design. This data can help to make mobility safer, more efficient and more convenient.

This also gives rise to new business models: making data economically viable for customers is one of ZF’s goals. Value is no longer only created by developing, selling and manufacturing a product, but can be monetised throughout its life cycle separately from hardware. By monetising data, ZF says customers can increase their earnings and strengthen their position in an increasingly competitive market.

For more from ZF, visit www.zf.com

VET OVERHAUL SHOULD ENCOURAGE FUTURE AUTOMOTIVE WORKFORCE Vocational education and training report calls for change The Productivity Commission’s final report into Australia’s vocational education and training (VET) sector was released in January and called for a serious overhaul around its confusing and underperforming aspects.

The Commission found that the multi-billiondollar sector’s funding agreement between the Commonwealth and the states needed major change with lack of transparency, targets not met and poor accountability for monetary allocations.

“This report creates an important evidence base for the reform road ahead,” Motor Trades Association of Queensland Group Chief Executive Officer, Rod Camm, said.

“There remains enormous skill shortages across the automotive industry, so it is critical that apprentices and those seeking upskilling are able to access training solutions suitable for their work.

“Many of the current structures of the VET sector have had their day. Australia needs a system 12

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

that keeps pace with the rapidly changing skill demands of industry.

“To remain internationally competitive, the fundamental building blocks of reform need to include genuine industry engagement, targeting of funding to industry and job needs, a qualification system that keeps pace through recognising stackable micro-credentials and nationally consistent pricing and contractual terms.

“Incentivising and supporting employers to take on apprentices will also create real jobs post government support programs.”

“As an independent industry based automotive training provider, we are encouraged by the recommendations to better link funding to high demand job areas that have high growth potential, like the need for specialist technicians to service and repair hydrogen and electric powered vehicles,” MTA Institute General Manager, Paul Kulpa, said.

“While encouraged by the logic of market approaches to the allocation of funding, the current system is too complex at all levels to truly enable informed choice.

“A balanced approach needs to include informed student choice, quality and oversight of performance.”

For more from the Motor Trades Association of Queensland, go to www.mtaq.com.au

NEWS

FRANCHISING SUCCESS WITH PEDDERS Three business models are now available Pedders says part of the stimulant for its amazing growth has come primarily from the company’s move into franchising, an opportunity which came about as much by accident as by design.

It explains that franchising has allowed Pedders to widen its scope and distribute more products into the market without losing control of product quality and customer service standards.

Pedders explains that franchise system has now grown into three achievable business models.

Pedders Suspension and Brakes Franchisee Pedders explains that it has a stringent process of inducting new Franchisees which is designed to both protect the existing group and increase its

probability of getting the most suited people to grow the Pedders business.

After several initial interviews with State Operations Managers, potential Franchisees must attend a four-week instore induction program including one week at the Pedders Head Office in Melbourne, before being approved as a franchisee.

Pedders Authorised Dealership Network Authorised Dealerships are privately run businesses which maintain the Pedders philosophy and offer the Pedders range of products and services.

Authorised Dealers are mainly chosen from already successful automotive aftermarket businesses which agree to undergo Pedders training and promote Pedders products and services within their own specific communities.

Manage to Own (new for 2021) Pedders’ most recent franchise business opportunity offer is its new “Manage to Own” business model.

This enables pre-qualified candidates to invest into and manage a new or existing Pedders Suspension and Brakes franchise business for up to five years on a managed programme to own the business at the end of the five years as a Store Manager.

Along the way, there is a host of training and bonus performance targets applicable to meet with an overall five-year expectation.

After the five-year qualifying period is completed successfully, the candidate then becomes a fullyfledged franchise service centre owner.

Pedders says this is a unique opportunity for suitable candidates to purchase an independently successful franchise with low entry costs and shared/reduced business risk.

To find out more about the Pedders Suspension and Brakes range of franchise or manage to own opportunities, go to www.pedders.com.au/about-us/pedders-franchising Interested parties may also wish to watch the ‘Franchising at Pedders’ video – which can be found on the Pedders Suspension and Brakes YouTube Channel – for more information.

NEW FEATURE ENHANCES CAPRICORN SERVICE DATA A new Service Advisor feature has been added Capricorn says that one of the many benefits of being a Capricorn Member is complimentary access to Capricorn Service Data which is said to be an incredibly valuable workshop information resource for servicing modern vehicles.

Powered by world leading automotive data providers, Autodata, Capricorn Service Data covers more than 34,000 makes and models.

Capricorn says this provides Capricorn Members with instant and accurate online service information which would otherwise cost over $800 per year in subscription fees.

A new addition to Capricorn Service Data is the “Service Advisor” feature. The Service Advisor function gives automotive workshop offices, reception staff and technical staff the ability to quickly and easily find what OEM services are required and what optional work should be recommended for each customer’s vehicle.

Capricorn Service Data’s new Service Advisor component also supports easier quoting and repair cost estimating for customers.

After selecting a vehicle within Capricorn Service Data by model in the usual manner, Members can

now bring up a one-page view of all replacement intervals and service times.

This information includes key parts for services outlined in plain language and Capricorn says this presents a fantastic opportunity to illustrate to customers what current and upcoming work may be needed.

According to Capricorn Automotive CEO, Bradley Gannon, Capricorn is always seeking to make operating automotive service and repair businesses more rewarding and efficient for its 20,000 plus Members located across Australia and New Zealand.

“The new Service Advisor component to the Capricorn Service Data suite is a time saving benefit that enables Member technicians to concentrate on their work and help front of house staff to easily provide customers with accurate information relating to upcoming service or repair work,” Bradley said.

The new Service Advisor feature has reportedly been optimised to function across both desktop and touchscreen devices, making it easy to present to customers on a tablet, notebook or monitor.

Capricorn says this is yet another benefit of membership in Australasia’s largest automotive cooperative that enables automotive businesses to become more efficient and profitable while providing premier customer service.

To find out more about Capricorn Service Data and the other benefits of becoming a Capricorn Member, visit www.capricorn.coop Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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NARVA STARS AT VIRTUAL TRADE SHOW The company has now starred at two ‘Cars in the Cloud’ events In June 2020, Narva participated in Australia’s first ever virtual trade show for the automotive industry ‘Cars In the Cloud’.

In response to COVID-19 restrictions preventing in-person trade events from taking place, many of Australia’s leading automotive brands came together to create a virtual space which was free for visitors for mechanics, workshops, and those with a vested interest in the automotive aftermarket, to see and hear the latest and greatest our industry had to offer.

‘Cars in the Cloud’ returned for a second show on November 26th, taking place from 12-8pm AEDT and delivering more than 20 hours of live content.

Narva’s virtual showcase included some of the brand’s most innovative recent releases, such as a lithium-powered soldering iron, the Surefit range of halogen-replacement LED headlight globes, Narva’s super-tough Geomax Class 1 LED strobe and a special preview of the upcoming second-generation Ultima 215 LED driving light.

Tech talks were a major highlight of ‘Cars In The Cloud’ and the Narva team were keen to share their expert knowledge on LED and halogen performance globes, heavy duty emergency and warning lighting along with a behind the scenes look at Narva’s research and testing facilities.

Narva says it was pleased to bring 4WD industry expert Simon Christie along as a keynote speaker who also participated in a live Q&A session.

Simon covered the 4x4 and touring industry explosion in a post-COVID economy, as well as tips about setting up 4x4 vehicles properly with advice for mechanics on how to capture the hearts and minds of modern 4x4 customers.

Those who missed out on the ‘Cars in the Cloud’ virtual tradeshow can check out on-demand content at www.carsinthecloud.com.au For more from Narva, visit www.narva.com.au 14

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

A POSITIVE END TO A TOUGH YEAR In this article, ACA Research takes a look at what December’s sales surge means for workshops in 2021 With international trips off the cards, and domestic travel opportunities remaining limited, many Australian households ended up spending less in 2020 than they typically might.

While we did see increases in retail and food spending, the household savings ratio also more than doubled, as they chose to put some of this ‘spare’ money aside for the future.

Looking at this from the perspective of new car sales, this was one of the factors that led to weak results through 2020, with those consumers who did buy a vehicle likely to consider used cars to reduce their outlay.

Moving towards the end of the year though, increasing consumer confidence going into the festive season saw Australians buck this trend, with new car sales exceeding the previous year for the first time since April 2017.

The December result was driven by private Buyers, whose sales were up 41 percent on December 2019 (vs. 14 percent overall), while other parts of the market remained weaker.

Figure One – Year on year change in monthly new car sales.

Source: VFACTS 2020

Looking at the year more broadly, no segment was immune from the market decline. We can however see the continuing trend to utes, SUVs and four-wheel-drives, which would have been further propelled by the increase in road trips off the back of border closures.

While these vehicles are likely to be serviced within the dealer network in the short term, many of them will be fitted with accessories and upgrades, ensuring this segment of the aftermarket continues its strong performance.

At a brand level, many established marques benefited from the December sales uplift. With

Figure Two – New car sales by segment. Source: VFACTS 2020

Figure Three – Top three growth brands. Source: VFACTS 2020

that said, in many cases this was a recovery from particularly poor performance through the year.

If we look at the brands that achieved success in both December and 2020 as a whole, two stand out in particular, with SAIC brands MG and LDV the real stars of the show.

Both recorded impressive growth trajectories in 2020, outperforming the rest of the market as a result of models such as the MG ZS and LDV T60 that effectively tapped into consumer demand at a competitive price point.

Alongside them, industry powerhouse Toyota (arguably Australia’s largest, and most trusted vehicle brand) has effectively withstood the turbulent environment of 2020.

While Toyota’s results were static through 2020, this is an impressive performance in and of itself, particularly when paired with the marque’s 36 percent uplift in December.

This success has been underpinned by the topselling Hilux, which shifted more than 45,000 units through 2020, along with Toyota’s popular RAV 4 hybrid, which has far outmatched its petrol equivalent.

So, what do these shifts mean for the aftermarket?

Three key takeaways stand out for us: 1. Strong used vehicle results through most of 2020 offer a significant opportunity to aftermarket workshops, with purchasers in many cases having a minimal connection to dealerships.

2. The 4WD category appears positioned for continued growth, highlighting the potential for manufacturers, wholesalers and retailers operating in this segment of the market.

3. Hybrid vehicles will continue to become more prevalent in the car parc, (and subsequently in aftermarket workshops). Those already familiar with their servicing and maintenance needs will be well positioned to tap into this trend, while those who aren’t will need to get across their unique requirements.

This column was prepared for AAA Magazine by ACA Research, our partners in the AAAA Aftermarket Dashboard which is delivered to AAAA members each quarter.

For more information, visit www.acaresearch.com.au or contact Ben Selwyn on bselwyn@acaresearch.com.au

NEWS

FREE ELECTRIC VEHICLE CHARGING NETWORK TRIAL IN ADELAIDE The project will provide fast chargers that are capable of charging all types of EVs The Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) recently announced $983,776 in funding to JOLT Charge Pty Ltd (JOLT) to develop and trial its free electric vehicle (EV) charging network in Adelaide.

JOLT will install 21 innovative EV fast charging units embedded in roadside advertising panels across Adelaide in car parks, streets and public spaces.

The network will be rolled out across several local government areas consisting of Campbelltown City Council, Charles Sturt Council, Marion Council and Port Adelaide Enfield Council.

The $1.97 million project will provide fast chargers capable of charging all types of EVs and provide free charging for approximately 15 minutes, providing drivers with approximately 45km of range (users can pay to use the JOLT chargers for longer than this period). All 21 units will be powered by 100 percent renewable energy.

The project will test the commercial viability of generating revenue through advertising sales to cover the cost of both EV charging infrastructure and the provision of charging for EV drivers. If successful, this model could help to develop a larger charging network in inner cities and major networks across Australia in advance of the expected increase in EV sales.

ARENA explains it has previously supported the rollout of two ultra-fast charging EV networks across Australia by Chargefox and Evie Networks which focused mainly on enabling travel on key highways. ARENA has also supported Origin, AGL and ActewAGL to trial different technologies and approaches to accelerate the commercialisation of managed EV charging and V2G services.

Doug McNamee, Chief Executive Officer of JOLT Charge, said the company was thrilled to see their vision come to life and provide much needed infrastructure for EV drivers.

“Through this ARENA grant, we’re able to make EVs more accessible with the launch of our free charging network. Increasing the availability of charging infrastructure is a key piece of the puzzle for widespread adoption of EVs. We are excited to be partnering with innovative and forward-thinking councils, helping them transition to a zero-emission transport future,” Doug said.

As outlined in the Australian Government’s first Low Emissions Technology Statement, ARENA says it will also continue to support consumers choosing new vehicle technologies through the roll-out of the Future Fuels Fund which is designed to help businesses and regional communities take advantage of opportunities offered by hydrogen, electric, and bio-fuelled vehicles.

For more from ARENA, visit www.arena.gov.au

UNIQUE AUTOMOTIVE INDUSTRY PRODUCT MANUFACTURER

FOR SALE!

Well established, automotive tool manufacturer supplying major automotive retailers Impressive annual turnover of $700k+ Ideal ‘bolt-on’ acquisition for an industry player with synergistic benefits Positioned for acquirer to add $300k+ to bottom-line earnings Together, ARENA says these projects not only help address consumer range anxiety for EVs but are also demonstrating and informing the market on how EV charging can be managed at higher levels of uptake, with the lowest cost and greatest benefit to consumers.

“The advertiser funded model for EV charging is untested in Australia and JOLT’s project could lead to a viable business model to address charging availability and range anxiety and therefore lead to increased uptake of EVs,” ARENA Chief Executive Officer, Darren Miller, said.

“This project will test the appetite of customers living in metro areas who use their vehicles for shorter trips to charge their vehicles while they’re out shopping or at public events. The more we can learn about consumer behaviour now, the better prepared we will be for the broader uptake of EVs across Australia.”

Primed for growth in the USA with infrastructure in place alongside distribution contracts with major US retailers Investment required $820k

Contact: mike@batonadvisory.com.au Ph: 0405 090 165 Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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AUTOMECHANIKA KUALA LUMPUR DEFERS TO 2022

New dates in March 2022 announced With COVID-19 cases still being recorded in Malaysia, the organisers of Automechanika Kuala Lumpur have announced they will defer the upcoming edition of the show which was initially planned for March 2021.

into and around Malaysia. With large numbers of COVID-19 cases still being reported domestically, the uncertainty of these restrictions being lifted before March 2021 is at the forefront of the organiser’s decision to postpone the show.

The move to reschedule the fair to 15 – 17 March 2022 comes as a result of travel restrictions hampering both domestic and international attendance.

“The wellbeing and safety of our stakeholders at Automechanika Kuala Lumpur is a top priority for us,” Messe Frankfurt (HK) Deputy General Manager, Fiona Chiew, said.

Show organisers state that exhibitors, partners and supporting associations have backed the decision, and they look forward to the fair’s mixture of exhibition and events that promote automotive industry recovery.

“After closely monitoring the developments of COVID-19 in Malaysia and to support prevention protocols curbing the spread of the virus, deferring the show to 2022 was the only reasonable response to effectively support players in the market, as well as safeguard public health.

Over the years, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur has gathered a broad international audience that leverages the platform to explore the opportunities in ASEAN’s automotive market. The last edition of the show, held in 2019, hosted 16 exhibiting and 58 visiting countries and regions worldwide.

However, prevailing travel restrictions into the country and local prevention measures, set out by the Conditional Movement Control Order (CMCO), have limited the geographical mobility

(RCEP) has exposed a beacon of light in the automotive supply chain and the economy.

Experts reportedly believe that this is a pivotal move to promote trade and industry recovery in the region stemming from the pandemic.

“With over 22 years in the ASEAN automotive industry, Automechanika Kuala Lumpur has stood the test of time. It will continue to adapt to trends and the current market situation, as well as expose wider opportunities for growth and development.”

This alliance will foster greater synergy at Automechanika Kuala Lumpur with many key participating countries and regions at the show belonging to the 14 RCEP member nations.

The fair aims to further amplify these market opportunities through its interactive events and activities, which will connect players across ASEAN and wider territories.

Organisers state the recent signing of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership

For more information, please email autoasia@hongkong.messefrankfurt.com

BEGIN YOUR AUTOMOTIVE CAREER TODAY Box Hill Institute can prepare you to become an automotive professional or enhance your existing skillset to help you climb to the next step of your occupation When Dino Rajapakse arrived in Australia from Sri Lanka, he was keen to change his career. He had previously studied a Business and Marketing degree but said, “I realised it wasn’t for me, I didn’t like sitting behind a desk all day, I like keeping busy.”

Dino enrolled in a two-year Diploma of Automotive Technology at Box Hill Institute as an international student and after graduating, worked some short stints at a few workshops, before picking up work with Toyota.

It was there that he says he realised how much he enjoyed sharing information and he began to explore ways he could transfer his knowledge to others.

The next time Dino arrived at Box Hill Institute, it was as a teacher eager to fulfil his ambition and who had retained fond memories of being taught

by Mark Liberto.

“I am so lucky to have been taught by Mark in my classes. He is now my mentor as a teacher here at Box Hill,” Dino said.

“I feel privileged to work here. I am grateful to Mark, my manager Michael Cope and the 16

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

automotive team for their support. We have a wonderful team and it’s one of the reasons why I love the Box Hill Institute.”

Dino finds it easy to relate to students and has an incredible knack for translating the most complex information into digestible, simple language. He wants his students to leave his lessons with a grasp of the basics, knowledge of the inner workings of the car and information on how to keep themselves safe.

He also regularly teaches the international automotive students, opening up and sharing his own experience as a former international student and making himself available to answer any questions they may have.

After COVID-19 drove students to remote learning, the automotive team quickly adjusted to the online environment, but Dino says he is glad to be able to return to teaching some classes on campus.

“It’s easier to perform practicals, to show students what they need to know and have them doing as much hands on practice as possible,” Dino said.

The more experience students get to work with the tools and equipment, the better opportunities they have when they go into the workforce.

So, if cars get your engine revving, you may wish to consider being like Dino and starting a career as an apprentice mechanic by completing one of the accredited automotive-related courses at Box Hill Institute.

Or if you are already an automotive technician, at Box Hill Institute you can shift it up a gear by enhancing your skills thanks to hands-on experience and the opportunity to learn from industry professionals how to inspect, service, diagnose and repair automotive systems.

For more information, visit www.boxhill.edu.au/study-areas/automotive

NEWS

BURSON AUTO PARTS CELEBRATES 50 YEARS OF SUCCESS 2021 marks 50 years for the leading Australian trade supplier of parts, tools, accessories and workshop equipment The Burson Auto Parts success story started in 1971, when company founders Ron Burgoine (the “Bur” in Burson) and Garry Johnson (the “Son” in Burson) began selling auto parts to Victorian automotive workshops from the boots of their cars. The entrepreneurial duo progressed to larger and more heavily stocked cash vans as they gained a loyal and growing set of trade customers across the state.

The first Burson Auto Parts distribution store was opened in the Melbourne suburb of Braybrook in 1978 and this heralded the start of a gradual period of solid growth for the small company, who were taking on more established spare parts suppliers and succeeding across Victoria.

A significant sign of this growth was the 1984 establishment of the first Burson Auto Parts interstate store located in Albury (NSW).

In 1986, Garry Johnson bought out his partner and was overseeing a strongly performing 15 store network by the following year with an emphasis on supplying premium quality products and ensuring supply of locally and globally sourced leading brands.

The company’s steady organic growth continued and by 1996 the 25th Burson Auto Parts store was opened. Demand from the trade grew to the point the company established a new, purpose built head office and 15,000 square metre distribution centre in the Melbourne suburb of Preston.

In the following three years a further 16 stores were added to the Burson Auto Parts network in New South Wales, along with a strong expansion into Queensland when the company acquired 11 Coventry Group stores. The combination of store acquisitions and greenfield Burson Auto Parts locations which followed saw the company reach the milestone of 50 stores in 2004.

The Australian company’s impressive growth continued, identifying key geographical areas of automotive repairer business concentration. Five additional New South Wales stores joined the network in 2006 and the next four years saw the opening of the Northern Territory’s first Burson

Auto Parts store along with a further 11 South Australian store locations.

By 2011, with more than 80 nationally located Burson Auto Parts stores in the network, the company’s growth had been personally led and crafted by company founder Garry Johnson across four decades. Johnson’s small executive management team included Chief Operating Officer Andrew Schram, who spent a staggering 34 years by his side, having started in the role of Assistant Store Manager at the first ever Burson Auto Parts store in Braybrook.

The time had come to commence the next phase and Burson Auto Parts was acquired from Johnson

by Darryl Abotomey and the management team backed by Quadrant Private Equity in October 2011 with a goal to make Burson Auto Parts the number one national automotive aftermarket supplier to the trade.

True to this mission and under the new leadership of Darryl, another major milestone was achieved with the opening of the 100th Burson Auto Parts store in May 2012. In the following year, the company acquired the Brisbane based Precision Auto Spares Group, adding another four stores to the network accompanied by the opening of an additional eight stores across Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland.

April 2014 saw Burson Auto Parts become a publicly listed company, making its debut on the Australian Stock Exchange as Burson Group Limited. The company’s long term, well proven performance made it a highly desired investment, enabling this local company to achieve unprecedented levels of growth and continued success.

By 2015, Burson Auto Parts had become truly national, with stores located in every Australian state and territory, with the addition of an 8,000 square metre Brisbane based distribution centre to ensure greater interstate store stocking efficiency.

Following the company’s highly successful public listing, July 2015 saw the company take its most exciting step to date with the acquisition of Metcash Automotive Holdings.

Darryl Abotomey In line with the company’s exciting future growth plans, in 2016 Burson Group Limited became Bapcor Limited (ASX:BAP), an acronym of Burson Auto Parts, establishing a new corporate identity that covers Burson Auto Parts and all of the new business segments of the group.

At this point the company began an exciting expansion into Asia, opening the first Burson Auto Parts store in Thailand. A further five Burson Auto Parts stores have joined the Thailand network to date as the company continues to organically grow in the region.

The next four years saw a number of major Bapcor acquisitions substantially increase the Burson Auto Parts automotive component and equipment product range, while growing the company’s light and heavy commercial vehicle parts portfolio.

Precision Automotive Equipment, Bearing Wholesalers, Roadsafe Automotive Products, Baxters Auto Electrical and MTQ Engine Systems joined the Bapcor fold in 2016. Tricor Engineering, AADi Australia, Commercial Truck Parts Group, Toperformance Products, Truckline and Diesel Drive also became a part of the Bapcor Group. In 2017 Bapcor acquired the publicly listed Hellaby business in New Zealand which included BNT, a New Zealand trade focussed business similar to Burson, as well as specialist wholesale businesses in Australia including JAS, PAT, Diesel Distributors and Federal Batteries.

Burson Auto Parts reached 190 stores in October 2020 and the company is on track to reach 200 stores within this financial year and 240 stores within the next five years.

Alongside the company’s continued commitment to the trade with Burson Auto Parts, Bapcor says it has an unparalleled footprint of trade, specialist wholesale and retail segments across more than 1,100 locations in Australia and New Zealand.

The Burson Auto Parts’ Golden Anniversary will be celebrated through a number of exciting trade promotions and events throughout 2021.

For more on Burson Auto Parts, visit www.burson.com.au

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NEWS

EIGHT DECADES OF UNWAVERING COMMITMENT Filtration specialist MANN+HUMMEL celebrates its 80th anniversary in 2021 Since its founding in 1941, the family-owned company says it has developed into the world’s leading filtration expert, providing employment for around 22,000 people at more than 80 locations.

The Ludwigsburg-based group develops filtration solutions for vehicles, industrial applications, and clean air in indoor and outdoor spaces as well as for the sustainable use of water. Products include, amongst others, air filter systems, intake systems, liquid filters, technical plastic parts, filter media, cabin filters, industrial filters and membranes for water filtration, sewage treatment and process applications.

“We owe our continued success mainly to our reliability, continuity and identification as a family-owned company,” Chairman of the MANN+HUMMEL Supervisory Board, Thomas Fischer, said.

“As Chairman of the Supervisory Board and grandson of one of the founders, Adolf Mann, I am very proud to be able to continue the legacy that he and Dr Erich Hummel started in 1941, along with dedicated employees.”

The planned festivities for the big event had to be rescheduled due to the Corona pandemic.

Instead, there will be individual and partly digital activities for employees at the sites worldwide.

The company has also designed a booklet documenting the milestones in the company’s history.

Filtration in the early years: a brave step When company founders Adolf Mann and Dr Erich Hummel established the “Filterwerk Mann + Hummel” in 1941, both could already look back on successful careers.

One was a mathematics teacher, the other

a lawyer, and in the 1920s, they had both made careers at the traditional Stuttgart textile manufacturer, Bleyle.

In the 1940s, the dedicated businesspersons took a brave step to enter filter production in order to save the jobs of their employees: taking over the production of oil and air filters from the Stuttgart-based piston manufacturer Mahle, initially in contract manufacturing and later completely, they founded the filter plant in 1941.

Thus MANN+HUMMEL was born.

A characteristic feature of the founders’ ambitions was the intensive research and testing activity that began immediately after the purchase.

With foresight, Adolf Mann wrote in 1942 in the company newspaper “Der Herold” that the filter product had a future in a field “in which there will be no lack of tasks in war and in peace.”

80 years later: MANN+HUMMEL purposefully pursues its vision of “Leadership in Filtration” Adolf Mann was to be proven right with his statement. In 2019, almost eight decades after its founding, the globally active filtration

specialist announced the highest sales revenue in the company’s history at EUR 4.2 billion - despite increasingly challenging conditions resulting from, among other things, mobility change, environmental and climate awareness, digitalisation and political shifts.

“In the course of my 20 years with the company, I have become familiar with all areas of MANN+HUMMEL. What impresses me most are the people who, even under challenging circumstances, work every day with great commitment to our common goals”, MANN+HUMMEL President and Chief Executive Officer, Kurk Wilks, said.

With the development of antiviral air purifiers, MANN+HUMMEL is currently helping to contain the spread of the coronavirus with its filtration technology. The devices filter the SARS-CoV-2 virus, flu, and cold viruses, as well as free allergens from the air.

“We see our core competence of filtration as a key technology that can make a lasting and decisive contribution to cleaner mobility, cleaner water and cleaner air,” said Fischer.

“The primary goal here is to secure the company’s future viability while at the same time expanding our market leadership in filtration.”

Recently, the company has also been expanding its expertise in growth markets worldwide with various acquisitions including Hardy Filtration (2019), a Canadian air filtration company; the takeover of parts of Seccua Holding AG (2019) which specialises in the development and production of ultrafiltration systems for drinking water treatment; and the acquisition of helsa Functional Coating (2020), through which the portfolio was supplemented mainly in molecular filtration and elastomer and activated carbon technology for special industrial applications.

For more information, visit www.mann-hummel.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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COVER STORY

USING THE RIGHT HOSE CLAMP IS MORE IMPORTANT THAN YOU THINK

Tridon – a leading Australian manufacturer of high-quality hose clamps – explains that this small part performs an essential task Tridon has been producing high quality hose clamps in its state-of-the-art facility in Sydney, New South Wales since 1976 and is a proud Australian manufacturer.

Tridon says this rich history in manufacturing components for the automotive industry has led to its hose clamps becoming “the benchmark in Australia and New Zealand.”

Tridon also produces purpose-built clamps for OEM applications.

If a unique clamping product is required for a specific application, Tridon explains that its engineering team can provide tailored solutions for complex fastening and sealing requirements, including short run custom hose clamps.

Australian Manufacturing Tridon has been manufacturing in Australia for more than 40 years and continues to be a fully Australian owned and managed company.

Tridon says its leading production processes, investment in automation, state of the art

equipment and focus on innovation has given it the competitive edge in quality, reliability, and pricing.

Precision manufacturing is essential for a quality hose clamp and Tridon says it achieves this through advanced tooling designed and built by its team of engineers.

It explains this allows control and consistency of free torque, performance, and specifications.

The importance of Hose Clamps Tridon says its hose clamps are the ultimate choice when it comes to sealing the vehicle’s vital fluids including fuel, oil and of course coolant.

All of these are under pressure and dangerous if they leak, so fitting a high-quality hose clamp is the reliable and safe option.

Engineered with features and benefits that combine to create the most reliable and userfriendly hose clamp on the market, Tridon says its products are demanded by the trade.

Relative to other vehicle components, a hose clamp is a low-cost purchase, but its importance should not be underestimated.

The hose clamp is responsible for sealing the vehicle’s vital and volatile fluids in extreme conditions.

These fluids are under high pressure, can be flammable and are exposed to massive temperature fluctuations.

So, to keep a motor vehicle running safely, you simply cannot afford a failure.

Continuous improvement Passionate about quality, safety and the environment, Tridon says it subscribes to the well-recognised International Standards of ISO9001, OHSAS18001 and ISO14001.

It explains this commitment requires comprehensive yearly inspections, testing, accountability and traceability inherited from IATF16949 Tier 1 Automotive QMS. Tridon’s approach to acting responsibly towards the environment is also evident in recent improvements such as the upgrade of sites with solar panels that generate over 70 percent of its electricity demand.

Tridon also has a brand new, highly efficient compressor system that reportedly saves more than 30 percent electricity in manufacturing.

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COVER STORY

Buying Tridon A variety of packaging options are available to suit workshops, trade stores and also retail.

Tridon explains that it also occasionally promotes hose clamps in bundles of popular sizes with a bonus giveaway which it says is always something to look out for.

More than just Hose Clamps Tridon Australia has a broad and diverse range of premium products to support the aftermarket.

The range includes wiper blades; thermostats and gaskets; automotive caps; engine management components including ignition coils and vehicle sensors; heater fan resistors and flashers; and relays.

Tridon explains that its philosophy is to have a complete range of highquality parts for all vehicles.

It states its focus is on premium quality products and premium brands; and in addition to the Tridon brand and product ranges, Tridon is the exclusive distributor of Toledo specialty tools, Sykes-Pickavant premium workshop tools, Matson battery accessories as well as leading German brands including Knipex and Rennsteig.

Distribution and capabilities Tridon has branch and warehouse facilities in key locations around Australia and New Zealand.

Tridon says this ensures products are closer to customers for faster delivery and allows Tridon to provide local customer service support.

When you purchase a Tridon product, Tridon says you are supporting an Australian business and receiving “a premium product that will not let you down.�

For more information, visit www.tridon.com.au or contact Tridon on 1300 362 263.

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

21

TECHNOFILE

OPUS IVS TACKLES RANGE ROVER ELECTRICAL ISSUE In this article, Opus IVS details its support of a customer with a Range Rover which was demonstrating various electric and camera malfunctions Opus IVS explains its OEM Brand-Specific Master Technicians support customers globally in the automotive aftermarket via its IVS 360 diagnostic support service, designed uniquely to assist workshops and technicians in the repair of complex vehicle technology.

Using the DrivePro’s market leading diagnostic software and extensive product knowledge, Opus IVS says the IVS 360 team provides workshops with the confidence to repair the most complex vehicles with speed and efficiency.

Opus IVS explains that all of its OEM-Trained Master Technicians have extensive main dealership workshop experience, which Opus IVS keeps up to date through ongoing VM and OEM training.

It says this allows the IVS 360 team to have knowledge of the latest models and systems, enabling them to support customers effectively from initial diagnosis through to final repair.

Diagnostic support cases range across a wide range of vehicle brands and are managed through the OEM-Trained Master Technicians who are experienced brand specialists.

This month, Opus IVS Jaguar/Land Rover OEMTrained Master Technician, Phil Gasper, provided live support to a customer who reported various electrical and camera malfunctions on a Range Rover Evoque 2016.

Using Opus IVS diagnostic software and extensive product knowledge for Jaguar/Land Rover, Phil identified the cause and steps needed to fix the problem.

When speaking to Phil, the customer explained

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

the symptoms that the vehicle was presenting as follows.

Make/Model: Range Rover Evoque 2016 model year Symptoms: • Various electric malfunctions - some entertainment buttons unusable.

• Camera system fault.

• AEB warnings.

• External temperature display comes on and off.

• Braking warning light (in regard to automatic braking system).

Fault codes: • Various missing message faults.

• Various modules not communicating.

Phil’s Recommended fix: Phil recommended a quick test be performed using his Opus IVS device so he could physically check which faults were present throughout the vehicle. Upon reviewing the details provided initially and from the Quick Test report, Phil recommended the following fixes to the customer: • Check rear view camera for water ingress.

• Check CJB and rear fuse box.

• Check all CAN voltages and resistances.

The Repair: Following Phil’s guidance, the customer reported back that they were able to identify that the camera was corrupting the CAN network.

After fitting the new part, all faults were fully cleared down via the Quick Clear function and the customer was able to move onto the next job.

ABOUT OPUS IVS Opus IVS helps independent automotive workshops repair the most complex vehicles fast with diagnostics, programming, and live repair guidance from OE brand-specific master technicians.

It supports thousands of technicians and workshop owners with OEM brand-specific diagnostic support.

As vehicles become technologically advanced, Opus IVS says it enables independent automotive workshops to get them back on the road safely.

Powered by Autologic, Opus IVS says it is committed to helping workshops complete repairs with intelligent vehicle support today, for a safer world tomorrow.

From symptom driven advice through to complex repair guidance, Opus IVS says it provides the knowledge and expertise to get from fault diagnosis to successful repair in minimal time, reducing costs and downtime for today’s modern workshop.

Globally, the IVS team provides essential diagnostic support to thousands of customers globally, with the aim of improving efficiency and profitability in their workshops.

For information on the Opus IVS diagnostic support package, www.opusivs-au.com/aaaa-contact or contact sales-au@opusivs.com or 03 8561 7600.

PRODUCT R&D

HARROP ARMS TITAN FOR BATTLE Following hot on the heels of the launch of its TVS Supercharger for the Ram 1500, Harrop is eagerly awaiting the day that the Nissan Titan might land in Australia “The Titan is an absolute cracker of a truck,” Harrop Engineering General Manager, Heath Moore, said.

“Nissan Australia has expressed a desire to release it down under, and given the popularity of American big dual cab utes and the Nissan brand in Australia we believe it would be a big success.”

Harrop’s US team has a Titan in their fleet, and it has quickly become the go-to due to its versatility, handling and comfort, and of course, performance.

“The Titan has the same 5.6-liter direct-injection V8 as the Y62 Patrol, so we have engineered our hugely popular TVS Supercharger to give the Titan a boost in performance,” Heath explained.

Harrop’s US team sourced a 2019 Pro 4X as the development rig for engineering validation.

Starting with the highly efficient and OEM validated TVS2300 technology, made in the USA

by Eaton, the team set about adapting it for use on the 2016 and up Titan range.

“We changed the position of the throttle body, to provide a free-flowing intake path and integrated it neatly with the factory air box,” said Heath.

“The supercharger is positioned prominently on top of the manifold assembly to deliver direct boosted air through the thick tube and fin intercooler into the cylinder heads.”

Harrop’s TVS2300 positive displacement Supercharger delivers 2.3 litres of air per

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revolution into the Titan’s 5.6 litre V8 and offers unrivalled thermal efficiency and performance as highlighted in back-to-back tests.

Harrop put its completely stock, naturally aspirated Titan on the roller dyno to provide a baseline.

The completely stock 2019 Pro 4X put down 296-wheel horsepower and 310 foot-pounds of torque at 4000rpm peak.

With the new Harrop supercharger fitted, the Titan was strapped back onto the dyno and recalibrated with HP Tuners to put down 398 horsepower and 420-foot pounds of torque at the lower 3000rpm level with a peak boost of just 6psi.

“That’s an impressive 34 percent increase in peak power, and a 44 percent increase in torque

achieved lower in the rev range,” said Heath.

“On the road, the Titan comes to life, making it a cracking drive.”

Harrop prides itself on developing supercharger kits that look as if they were OEM factory fitted and the Titan set up is no exception.

All factory accessories, including the air conditioning, are retained, and there is no need for cutting or fabrication to install the TVS2300 supercharger.

“Our fundamental design objective is to achieve OEM levels of finish and vehicle integration,” Heath explained.

Harrop sources the latest intercooler core configuration technology for thermal efficiency from its cooling partners, ADRAD.

PRODUCT R&D

The large 36-millimeter core integrated into the manifold with dual-pass flow maximises the heat rejection capabilities, providing cooler dense air to the engine to generate more power and torque.

“The kit’s front mount radiator is made in the USA and features a slimmer louvred fin and tube configuration,” said Heath.

“It features a dual-pass system to effectively support the intercoolers and to reduce inlet air temperature, we supply a large Bosch intercooler pump for the closed air to water circuit, and it’s all connected using moulded hoses.”

Having delivered intercooled boosted air to the cylinder heads, the Titan’s fuel delivery is supported by the factory direct injection fuel system on the VK56VD engine.

“It’s important to remember that the best hardware in the world is only as good as the calibration,” Heath explained.

Harrop’s technical team spent countless hours on the dyno and behind the wheel to ensure the tune is on-point and that it delivers the perfect balance of drivability, durability, and outright performance.

“Having driven the Harrop enhanced Titan, what’s most impressive is how this increase in power and torque translates on the road,” said Heath.

“The first thing you notice is the torque, the Titan now pulls right through the rev range, making for an extremely rewarding drive.”

Titan is no show pony and the guys at Harrop USA put her to work on a daily basis.

“From vigorous hauling and tow testing, including data logging both on the highway, large hills and city roads, the Titan doesn’t spend much time in the garage, and she hasn’t missed a beat,” Heath remarked.

“We are ready for Nissan Australia to push the go button for Down Under and would quickly add one to our fleet at Harrop HQ.” To find out more about Harrop’s full range of performance products and track the launch of its Titan TVS 2300 supercharger kit, visit www.harrop.com.au and subscribe to Harrop TV.

While it looks the goods, the Harrop equipped

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

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PRODUCTS

NEW ACS ACCESSORIES The clutch company has recently released new accessory products Operating for over 30 years, Australian Clutch Services (ACS) has built up a comprehensive range of clutch kits, components, hydraulics and accessories to suit vehicles from around the world.

With an emphasis on depth of range, quality and availability, the team at ACS says it continues to add new products on an almost daily basis to ensure customers around Australia and the world have access to the products they need as well as the technical support and advice required.

The Australian Clutch Services accessories range has also continued to expand, and ACS has recently introduced new clutch and actuation accessories including clutch cables for several Suzuki Jimny models; hydraulic hard lines and dampers for Holden Cruze and Ford Ranger PX models; and a pedal assembly including master cylinder for 1.6L Ford Fiesta models from 20092013.

GREASEABLE SHACKLE KITS From Nolathane Whilst modern 4WDs have improved, there is still an underlying compromise between ride, handling and traction both on and off-road.

Due to the current trend of lifting vehicles, Nolathane says the shackles and fixed pins are often overlooked when upgrading and therefore result in negative effects.

It says original shackles and fixed pins corrode and destroy the bushings, and it is the leaf spring bushings that stabilise the movement of the rear axle.

Nolathane explains worn or inferior bushes will cause the solid rear axle to move and impart rear end passive steer to the vehicle, leading to the vehicle ‘wandering’ and being unstable under heavy braking. High kilometres and heavy load carrying also causes excessive wear on rubber bushings.

Nolathane says its new greaseable shackle kits are an all-in-one purpose service kit which are a crucial item for any leaf sprung vehicle, lifted or not.

Nolathane states its signature red bushings are made tough and offer outstanding abrasion resistance, high load bearing capability, flexibility,

increased tensile strength and chemical resistance to oil, grease, ozone and weathering.

It says they also deliver the added benefit of synchronising your suspension system for optimal safety, handling and performance. Nolathane says they are the most positive link between your vehicle and its springs, shocks and other suspension components; unlike soft rubber bushings, which it says distort under braking, cornering or when towing loads.

Nolathane explains its polyurethane bushings maintain alignment settings and offer complete reliability.

By fitting the complete package of Nolathane greaseable shackles, fixed pins and bushing kit, Nolathane says the rear end of any 4WD will handle just about anything thrown at it.

Visit www.nolathane.com.au or phone Nolathane on 1300 882 355 for more information.

THE WORLD’S NUMBER ONE SELLING CAR FIRE EXTINGUISHER BRACKET The award-winning Bracketeer Vehicle Fire Extinguisher Bracket is available in Australia All of these items are available under the ClutchPro brand, which is ACS’ standard replacement passenger car and commercial brand. ACS says that these accessories are changing rapidly as the market continues to evolve.

“As we have continued to expand our range of accessories, we are starting to see more advanced products coming through and many now come as a complete kit,” ACS Business Development Manager, Colin Jevons, said.

“The Ford Fiesta clutch pedal and master cylinder assembly is a good example of this.

These items are now serviced as a complete unit rather than individually, resulting in a more efficient installation.

“The team are continually looking for opportunities to expand and we are always reviewing product enquiries to ensure we offer the best coverage and meet market demand.”

For more information on the ACS range of accessories, please visit the online catalogue at www.australianclutch.com.au or call 1800 CLUTCH. 28

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Having a fire extinguisher within easy reach, in a consistent location, is an important safety addition to any vehicle.

Usually when you are fitting a fire extinguisher to your vehicle you will need to fabricate a custom bracket to mount it safely and securely.

The Bracketeer is a Patented universal adjustable bracket that can be fitted between your seat rails, either by using the clamping mounts or through the holes direct to the seat mounting bolts.

The Bracketeer was founded by car enthusiast and modifier Simon Wehr. Starting from a one-off handmade fire extinguisher bracket for his 2011 SS Camaro, Simon posted images of his creation on a car forum to share as a DIY idea.

It was so embraced by Camaro owners that the concept quickly evolved into a business, with orders flowing in from around the world.

The overnight success prompted the idea for a truly universal bracket that could achieve a secure installation, quickly and easily in nearly any modern or classic vehicle, and so The Bracketeer Automotive Universal Bracket was born.

It is said to be simple and safe with no drilling of holes or modifying the vehicle in any way required.

It is constructed with Grade 50 A572 steel and supplied with all stainless-steel fasteners and hex keys necessary for quick installation in around 10 minutes.

It is easily transferable between vehicles and with more than 16,000 units sold, it is said to be the number one selling car fire extinguisher bracket in the world.

Vehicle fires are more common than you might think and Simon says the Bracketeer is “a small investment for the added safety and security it delivers.”

For more information, go to www.thebracketeer.com.au or email info@thebracketeer.com.au

PRODUCTS

CATERAN LAUNCHES TURBOCHARGER OIL LINE KITS Covering popular 4x4, SUV and LCV applications Cateran recently launched a range of turbocharger oil line kits to add to its range of turbo diesel premium turbochargers, turbocharger gasket kits and fastener kits.

The new oil line kits cover the most popular turbo diesel 4x4, SUV and LCV applications including Toyota Landcruiser, Hilux, Prado and HiAce, Nissan Patrol and Navara, Mitsubishi Pajero and Triton, Holden Colorado and Captiva, Mazda BT50, Ford Ranger and Hyundai iLoad.

Cateran, a wholly Australian owned and operated business, explains that it specialises in the supply of premium quality new aftermarket turbochargers and associated accessories.

It says all of its products have been developed to meet OE standards and are thoroughly quality checked in its facility in Melbourne. Further, Cateran explains that every turbocharger is balanced to over 150,000rpm on a high speed European VSR Balancer and every VNT turbocharger, pneumatic and electronic, is dynamically calibrated to OE specifications on a top of the range European flow bench.

All Cateran turbochargers and accessories include an “industry leading” three-year/100,000km warranty “for complete peace of mind.”

Cateran’s range of premium quality new replacement turbochargers, gasket kits, fastener kits and the newly released oil line kits are all available through Repco, NAPA Auto Parts and Motorspecs. Cateran says you should also keep your eyes on the press for the release of Hose Kits and Intercoolers later in 2021.

Each turbocharger includes a full set of premium stainless steel OE style gasket kits with a start-up oil supply syringe. The gasket kits can be purchased as a standalone item and offers OE quality at a substantially reduced cost.

The Cateran turbocharger fitment fastener kits are made up from OE spec (A286) steel and stainless steel rolled thread mounting studs with Wurth copper coated nuts and custom stainless-steel washers all blister packed for your convenience.

Cateran offers complimentary product and technical support with pre-installation, installation and post-installation support offered

via its national Technical Support Hotline on 1300 176 071.

Dislodged coked oil in old oil feed lines may result in turbocharger bearing failure. Replacing the oil feed line is often quicker and cheaper than cleaning the old oil feed line. Cateran says its stainless-steel oil lines offer an affordable alternative too what it says can be often expensive and hard to find OE parts.

For a full range of applications, visit www.cateran.net.au

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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PRODUCTS

LED AUTOLAMPS’ 355 SERIES RANGE The company says the new range represents the latest in LED dynamic lighting technology LED Autolamps says its latest 355 series range of rear combination lamps is setting a new benchmark in lighting style and design.

The first thing you notice when you look at the 355 is its distinctive sleek, clean lines and striking angular configuration. LED Autolamps says the attention to detail in its design and build offers you a premium product that not only provides excellent value but will enhance your vehicle or application and make you stand out from the rest.

LED Autolamps also offers two different types with a bright chrome look or a smooth black version.

It says the real magic happens when in active mode: intensified by a diffused taillight at the top which also incorporates an inbuilt reflex reflector are the sequential indicators which light up in a dynamic sequence. Super bright horizontal stop and reverse functions give all road users clear notice of your vehicle’s intentions.

This compact all in one-unit measures 356mm x 86mm x 35mm, with twin bolt surface mounting making it perfect for a small tray or truck. For extra fitting flexibility, LED Autolamps says it has made

the 355 series compatible with its multi-fit rightangle bracket (Part No. MFBKT.) Construction consists of hardened acrylic and ABS and polycarbonate plastics, known for strength, durability and UV resistance. The lamps are completely sealed and protected from water and dust ingress to strict IP67 testing standards. LED Autolamps says vibration and impact resistance with no moving parts ensures these products are made fit for purpose and up to any challenge in Australia’s harshest road environments.

As well as exceeding the required standards with stringent ECE approvals, these lamps will reportedly not only make you stand out from the rest but also ensure your vehicle is road legal and compliant in all states of Australia. A multi-voltage 12-24V and a low operational current draw are said to make these lamps perfect for a wide variety of applications and battery system requirements.

LED Autolamps says its entire operation is certified to ISO9001:2015, the internationally recognised Quality Management Standard; and its main production facility is certified to IATF16949:2016

standards. It says this is your guarantee of conformity of production, exceptional service, technical expertise, and dedicated after-sales care.

The 355 series is offered in a single bulk pack with the large harness system plugs incorporated into the cable and a twin retail blister pack with bare wires. Importantly the twin pack has a handy function simulator button so your customers can see a sample of the dynamic sequential indication and the light output of the diffused tail function.

LED Autolamps takes full control in the design, development and manufacture in producing the lamps so it says it can confidently offer a five-year warranty.

For more information, visit www.ledautolamps.com or call 03 9466 7075.

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PRODUCTS

RYCO FILTERS LAUNCHES ISUZU N SERIES CATCHCAN KIT Tailored to the 2008 to 2018 Isuzu N Series with 4HK1 engine Designed and engineered in Australia, Ryco Filters has introduced a customised Catchcan for the Isuzu N Series light commercial vehicles, and it is available in store now.

First to market, the Ryco Filters’ RCK400 Crankcase Filter Assembly Kit – also referred to as the Catchcan – has been tailored to the 2008 to 2018 Isuzu N Series with 4HK1 engine, and offers a range of benefits for owner operators and fleet owners.

A complete package, Ryco Filters says the Isuzu RCK400 Catchcan Kit includes all the parts required for the technician, including the bracket, moulded emissions hoses and joiners and clamps, when fitting or replacing the crankcase filter.

An additional length of emission hose is included if required to fit in an alternative location.

Ryco Filters says the benefits of installing a Crankcase filter system are numerous; they remove oil and impurities from the blow-by gases generated by the engine, prevent oil and soot contamination entering the clean air intake, they protect the turbo chargers, avert oil build up in intercoolers, and keep the engine components clean.

The RCK400 Crankcase Filter Assembly Kit is an important protective product for owner operators,

but substantial if you run a small or large fleet of Isuzu N Series commercial vehicles.

Having a Catchcan fitted results in a better performing, more efficient engine that helps improve fuel economy and reduces contaminants in the atmosphere.

“The Isuzu Catchcan is an innovative new product that has been designed, engineered and tested right here in Australia by Ryco’s research and development, and engineering departments,” Ryco Filters General Manager, Engineering and Innovation, Alastair Hampton, said.

“A genuine performance product, the Catchcan plays an important role in the on-going running of your vehicle and ensures longevity.

“The benefits of fitting the RCK400 Catchcan Filter Assembly Kit to your Isuzu are conclusive, and is just another reason why Ryco is Australia’s favourite filter brand.”

Clever in its design and easy to fit, the mounting bracket is designed in two parts, which allows the whole unit to be attached and removed quickly. The RCK400 mounts the crankcase filter assembly externally on the chassis, making inspection and servicing easy for the technician.

Further to this, a tap has been incorporated into the sump to allow for the easy draining of contaminants.

“We recently drained the Catchcan from an Isuzu N Series that had travelled less than 10,000 kilometres to see how much oil and contaminants had been collected,” Ryco Filters General Manager Commercial, Nathan Grant, said.

“A 300-millilitre pool of contaminated oil had been collected in the Catchcan; oil that has not been circulated back through the intake system.

“If this had not occurred, the oil would have caused carbon build up that restricts the air intake resulting in power and efficiency loss. These N series- 4HK1 engines do not have a factory PCV filter so this is a great example how Ryco filters have created a solution for our customers. Fitting the RCK400 will protect your investment and reduce maintenance costs.”

The Ryco RCK400 Catchcan Kit for the Isuzu N series is available nationally now.

For further information contact your local Ryco Filters distributor, visit www.rycofilters.com.au or contact the Ryco customer service team on 1800 804 571.

VDO DIESEL PARTS Based in Melbourne for over 47 years, Cornell Diesel Systems has been approved as a VDO distributor in Australia Cornell Diesel Systems says it has established itself as the one-stop destination for the supply of new and remanufactured diesel parts, with longestablished relationships with all major diesel parts manufacturers.

As of January 2021, Cornell Diesel Systems will have stock of genuine VDO Diesel range of products, supporting the automotive industry.

Further enhancing its high-quality range of diesel parts and accessories, Cornell Diesel Systems is also an authorised dealer for DENSO, Delphi, Bosch, Stanadyne, and Zexel, dealer for Redback, Fuel Manager and Steinbauer, and is a supplier of HPD. VDO is a trademarked brand of the German company, Continental Automotive Group. Under the VDO brand, Continental manufactures cost34

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

effective common rail diesel components known for their stringent quality standards, delivering accurate flow rates and long-term reliability.

The VDO range available through Cornell Diesel Systems will include genuine VDO replacement common rail diesel components, high pressure diesel pumps, diesel fuel injectors, rails and associated sensors.

VDO diesel pumps and injectors are suitable for a range of applications, including Ford Ranger/Transit/Territory/Mondeo, Volkswagen Caddy/Golf, Landover Range Rover/Defender, Nissan Navara, and some models from Renault, Citron and Peugeot. Cornell Diesel Systems is also authorised to overhaul and test VDO high pressure pumps and injectors in its advanced, well-equipped diesel fuel injection rooms and workshops.

Cornell Diesel Systems says the ordering process is straightforward through Capricorn accounts and streamlined with SAP B1 ERP system software which Cornell Diesel Systems has installed in both its Melbourne and Sydney branches.

For more information, contact Cornell Diesel Systems’ Melbourne branch on 03 9267 8800 or sales@cornells.com.au or contact its Sydney branch on 02 9757 7373 or sales@cdsnsw.com.au

PRODUCTS

TOUGH-AS MOTORSPORT PIT MATS When superior performance and quality matters, Tough-As Pit Mats “take the top step of the podium” Tough-As Products says it is the Australian market leader in premium Pit Mats for all forms of Motorsport.

The Tough-As Pit Mats are manufactured in South Australia, from Australian sourced materials and are said to create a professional, clean pit area to suit any racing discipline.

Made from the highest-grade puncture, stain, chemical and fire-resistant PVC, Tough-As Products says this Pit Mat will outlast the competition, no matter what you throw at it.

The Pit Mats are available in four standard sizes:

3.0m x 3.0m; 4.5m x 3.0m; 6.0m x 3.0m; and 8.0m x 4.0m.

Tough-As Products says these sizing options means the mats can suit most typical marquees and applications and custom sizes are also available with short lead times.

With the Tough-As Pit Mat, service crews of all types can now safely and effectively service and maintain their vehicles outside of a workshop.

The Pit Mat is totally portable and suitable to be used on all terrain including grass, dirt, bitumen or concrete.

Key features: • Heavy duty portable pit flooring with welded hems • Puncture and tear resistant.

• Jacks and jack stands can be used on top of the mat.

• Stays flat and resists blowing away.

• Can be screwed or pegged down as required in blustery conditions.

• • • •

Chemical resistant and fire retardant.

Waterproof and UV stable.

Comes with strong Tough-As carry bag.

Standard colours include Black, Grey, Yellow, Red, Green and Blue • Workmanship carries a 100 percent warranty for the life of the Pit Mat. • Custom printing also available to add the personal or professional touch to your set up.

Tough-As Products also offers garage products, work mats and covers.

Tough-As work mat distributors are being sought in key territories throughout Australia.

For more information, visit www.tough-as.com.au

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PRODUCTS

DORMAN ECOTEC PCV VALVE REPAIR KIT An all-in-one solution for a common problem for the Holden Cruze JH and Barina The IM Group – exclusive distributors in Australia and New Zealand for Dorman products – explains that when the non-return valve in the intake manifold fails on the Holden A14NET engine, it can cause a cascade of problems.

The valve in the intake manifold often becomes dislodged, causing excessive vacuum that then damages the diaphragm integrated into the valve cover’s PCV cap. This throws engine codes, wastes oil and causes rough idling.

The inherent issue of excessive oil consumption is not only limited to the Holden Barina with A14NET engine in Australia.

It is also evident in the Holden Cruze JH series; however, the inlet manifold is slightly different in this application.

The Holden Cruze has two MAP sensors mounted to it. One being in the same position as the Barina, plus an additional atmospheric pressure sensor mounted next to it.

IM Group says Dorman’s research and development team has now developed a simple solution by adding an adaptor to the Dorman inlet manifold (part number 615-380), allowing it to suit more applications.

The adapter design allows the fitment of the second MAP sensor as required in the Holden Cruze application.

When ordering a replacement inlet manifold, IM Group says you need to be sure to ask for a 615-380C for the Holden Cruze applications or a 615-380B for Barina applications.

It also recommends that the Rocker Cover and PCV hose be replaced at the same time, stating that these items often fail as a result of a fault in either unit.

Therefore, Dorman has created a convenient kit to suit both applications: • Cruze Part no: 264-968C • Barina Part no: 264-968B IM Group says the Dorman Kits offers a complete repair of all damaged components, with a redesigned OE FIX manifold to prevent future intake manifold and valve cover failure.

It also includes a PCV tube assembly, as this part frequently breaks during removal. IM Group states that the result is a permanent repair, “done right the first time.”

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

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PRODUCTS

AERO DETAILING PRODUCTS Formulated for aircraft; perfect for your car International Aero says its Aero Premium Detailing Products and Ceramic Coating are manufactured in the USA and are of the highest quality.

The USA-based company was launched in the mid-80s by Jonathan Saltman and to this day, Jonathan is still the man behind International Aero products.

Jonathan’s two great passions are cars and planes, so it was only a matter of time before he took the Aero products he had developed and perfected over many years for Aircraft Detailing into the Automotive Detailing market.

International Aero says there is no greater test to products than exposing them to the rigours of aircraft where there are extremes in temperatures such as +120 Deg F on the ground to -60 Deg F at 50,000 feet in the air.

The Aero Detailing Products and Aero 10H Ceramic Coatings are used and certified to protect Gulfstream Jets, Bombardier Jets and countless others.

Aero says its slogan of ‘Formulated for Aircraft

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and Perfect for your Car’ is certainly true, and that the range of Aero products for the Automotive Detailing shops and Retail customer is extensive.

It explains that its beautifully presented products range from premium quality interior cleaning and protection products such as Aero Immaculate to exterior products such as its waterless cleaner and polish Aero Shine and all the way through to the Aero 10H Shield Diamond Ceramic Coatings.

The Aero Ceramic Coatings reportedly have specific formulations for Vehicle Exteriors, Interiors, Glass, Marine, Aircraft, PPF Finishes, Wheels and many more.

Aero says its ceramic products are “without a doubt the most durable on the market,” giving up to seven years of protection due to their “cutting edge Nano Hexagonal Matrix Technology and German ingredients along with a reduced solvent structure that produces truly world class results.”

As a manufacturer and supplier to both the Aircraft Industry and Automotive Detailing

marketplace, Aero says it is always there to lead the way with new solutions and new products that will enhance and protect your customer’s investment, whether it is a new vehicle or an old classic car, bike, truck, boat or plane.

Aero says its “quality and range is second to none and that no other manufacturer has the quality nor the product depth available that Aero does.”

For more information, call 03 9553 6915 or email info@aeroaustralia.com.au

PRODUCTS

RAW NITRO MAX REDARC CONTINUES TO EXPAND BCDC RANGE UPGRADES MOUNTING RANGE Raw 4x4 says its Raw Nitro Max range has just gotten bigger and better

Two new brackets have been added to the range

As part of its continuous improvement program, Raw 4x4 says all Nitro Max strut and shock designs have been upgraded to a “massive” 45mm bore size.

Being part of the Powerdown truck shock absorber group, Raw 4x4 says it has utilised the same heavy-duty truck technology which has proven itself over millions of kilometers on commercial vehicles.

Raw 4x4 explains the 45mm piston design was chosen for its durability and its ability to be precisely tuned for comfort and control.

It says the key advantage of a larger piston is that the operating pressures inside the shock are greatly reduced, improving the overall performance of the unit.

REDARC has continued to increase the range of vehicle specific mounting brackets to aid in the installation of its award-winning Australian made in-vehicle DC-DC chargers.

The following brackets have been added to the range, making a total of 10 brackets to suit most popular 4WD makes and models.

BCDC Mounting Bracket (BCDCMB-009) is suitable for Mitsubishi Triton MR Diesel and Pajero QE/QF model vehicles (2019 onwards).

BCDC Mounting Bracket (BCDCMB-010) is suitable for Nissan Patrol Y61 GU Series 4-9 models, tailored specific for Diesel models (01/2005 – 04/2016).

Each bracket is vehicle specific, ensuring that the bracket size and mounting style is tailored for secure fitment within the engine bay. This removes the need to drill holes or make up custom bracketry as a part of the dual battery installation, saving considerable installation time and providing a professional, neat install.

REDARC says each bracket has been engineered to be used with its comprehensive range of BCDC Chargers. They ship complete with instructions and fasteners to complete the installation process.

This large bore size is housed in a 61mm body design for extra oil capacity and a nitrogen gas charge to soak up the corrugations with minimal drop off in valving, known as “shock fade.” High temperature oil and a multi-lip HNBR seal were specified to further enhance the design.

Coming from a truck shock pedigree, Raw 4x4 says all materials and fittings offer an extremely high tensile strength to withstand high side loads and stone damage. It states this is most noticeable when picking up a Nitro Max shock in terms of physical weight compared to the OE unit.

The Nitro Max range is suitable for fitment in the following vehicle applications - Toyota Landcruiser 80, 100, 105 and 200 series; Toyota Hilux KUN and GUN; Toyota Prado 120 and 150 series; Toyota FJ Cruiser; Nissan Patrol GU and GQ; Nissan Navara D40 and NP300; Ford Ranger PX 1, 2 and 3 For more information, please visit www.raw4x4.com.au or call 02 4949 0000.

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REDARC General Manager Aftermarket Sales, Ben Marsh, said the expanded range will further improve the installation experience for REDARC installers.

“REDARC’s BCDC Mounting Brackets make life easier for our stockists and DIY end-users alike.

The continual expansion of our bracket range is further evidence of our commitment to customer and end-user satisfaction,” Ben said.

“Built in Australia and proudly bearing the Australian-made logo, our BCDC Mounting Brackets and Chargers are tested for the harshest conditions, meaning they will work in the extremes of the outback to the alpine region and not let you down.”

Like all REDARC products, the BCDC Mounting Brackets and Charger range come with nationwide support, including a “two-year hassle free” warranty and after-sales service.

For more information, visit www.redarc.com.au/battery-chargers/mounting-brackets

Part Number

Vehicle Suitability

BCDCMB-001

Toyota Landcruiser 200 (11/2008-onward)

BCDCMB-002

Toyota Landcruiser 70 (03/2007-onwards)

BCDCMB-003

Toyota Landcruiser Prado 150 (10/2009-onwards)

BCDCMB-004

Toyota Hilux (03/2005-9/2015)

BCDCMB-005

Toyota Hilux (10/2015-onwards)

BCDCMB-006

Isuzu D-MAX (06/2012- MY2019) & Holden Colorado RG (10/2015-onwards)

BCDCMB-007

Universal Mounting Kit

BCDCMB-008

Toyota Landcruiser 100, J100 Series (1998 – 2000), J105 Series (1998-2007)

*NEW* BCDCMB-009

Mitsubishi Triton MR Diesel & Pajero QE/QF (2019 onwards)

*NEW* BCDCMB-010

Nissan Patrol Y61 GU Series 4-9 Diesel (01/2005 – 04/2016)

PRODUCTS

NEW FROM TUFF TONNEAUS Tuff Tonneaus has recently launched a No-Drill Tonneau Cover for Ram Trucks Tuff Tonneaus has developed its No Drill 2.0 Clip On Tonneau Cover for the Ram Trucks to cater for both the 5’7” and 6’4” tub bed sizes.

With many Ram accessories costing many thousands of dollars, Tuff Tonneaus says it wanted to design a cost-effective cover that suits a range of requirements for the low price of just $599.

Tuff Tonneaus says its Clip On 2.0 has reinvigorated the Clip On cover with a host of new features and is now even easier to install and simple to use.

It says the Clip On 2.0 has sleek lines and soft curves, comes on and off in seconds, features a smart new no drill clamping system, and is designed, manufactured and assembled in Melbourne, Australia.

Tuff Tonneaus says it takes just 15 minutes to install, stating that everyone is an expert fitter with the Tuff Clip-On 2.0.

“Our professionally created, easy to read fitting instructions means you can finish the job in under 15 minutes, even with no experience. You

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will feel like it was installed by an expert!” Tuff Tonneaus Managing Director, David Wilson, said.

Key features: • The genuine “No Drill” clamp-on design removes the need to drill holes both inside and outside of your ute, “no drill, no rust, no worries.”

• Patented adjustable tonneau support bar design allows the cover to maintain a tight fit and great looks in extreme temperatures and all weather conditions.

• Carrying over-size loads is not a problem with a stretch cord, clip on system. Attached to the underside of the cover, the system enables you to secure your cover, and handle oversize loads with ease.

• The 2.0 Tonneau covers come with everything you need to fit including a bonus six-in-one multi-tool.

• Unlimited five-year warranty on all covers.

• Every Clip On 2.0 Tonneau comes complete with a bottle of 303 Aerospace Protectant.

“With over 25 years’ experience in the industry, we’ve mastered the design of our tonneau covers, so we can guarantee with confidence that our covers are a perfect fit for your ute,” David said.

“Made to order and dispatched in less than 24 hours, our extensive tonneau cover range provides excellent value and premium quality to both customers and retailers.

“The 2.0 range offers our customers and retailers a simple install at the right price. One that is made and backed by Australia’s leading tonneau cover manufacturer.”

For more information, visit www.tto.com.au or contact the team on sales@tto.com.au or 03 8720 0700.

PRODUCTS

YOU AND YOUR TRANSMISSION You like to stay cool and so does your Auto Transmission The lifespan of your transmission can be greatly affected if it gets overheated. While all automatic transmission equipped vehicles normally have a transmission cooler, this might sometimes not be enough to properly cool your transmission fluid.

Depending on how your vehicle is used, the Direction-Plus team advises it would be best to think about adding an external transmission cooler if you use your vehicle for towing, carrying loads, driving in sand, snow, off-roading, or driving in hot conditions.

Further, if you have increased the performance of your engine, the Direction-Plus team affirms that an additional transmission cooler can help keep your vehicle running longer and more efficiently.

Key benefits of a transmission cooler: 1. Protect your transmission from overheating: the primary purpose of a transmission cooler is to keep the hydraulic fluid inside the transmission cool. The optimal temperature for this fluid and your transmission is 760C or lower. But when the temperature increases

beyond this point, it can lead to permanent damage and costly repairs.

Subsequently the life span of the ATF, seals and internal components of the transmission are significantly reduced.

Higher internal temperatures also increase the wear rate of the friction and clutch plates.

2. Prolong the life of your transmission: under normal driving conditions, your vehicle’s cooling system should be able to properly cool your transmission’s hydraulic fluid before it returns to the transmission. But if you drive aggressively or regularly tow heavy loads, this might not happen. As a result, hot fluid returns to the transmission, which can cause gear issues. A transmission cooler can help your transmission last longer by reducing transmission temperature.

3. Save money: A broken transmission can be a costly repair. But when you invest in a transmission cooler, you can prolong the life of your transmission by keeping it cool and preventing unnecessary damage to its internal

parts. That also means fewer trips to the mechanic.

Direction-Plus claims it is one of Australia’s most trusted brands for supplying technically superior, best in class kits and accessories for dieselfueled passenger 4x4 vehicles, and states it has the best in class Transmission Cooler kits for your vehicle. The team invites you to jump on to their website to check out their kits and protect your vehicle against costly repairs.

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

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PRODUCTS

RISING DEMAND FOR DUAL-BATTERIES Aussies are heading off-grid With many sites booked out already for the upcoming Easter period, no doubt a large number of outdoor lovers will be tempted to head off-grid, sparking an increase in demand for dual battery systems.

For workshops, this presents an opportunity to include an upgrade to a dual battery system as part of a pre-holiday service.

One positive impact of the restricted overseas travel being experienced due to COVID-19 is that many Australians are looking at holiday adventures closer to home.

In fact, the Caravan Industry Association of Australia has reported that 72 percent of cabins and 64 percent of powered sites were booked around Australia for the school holiday week commencing 28 September 2020, showing some relief for regional businesses.

“A dual battery system is a simple thing to install but makes a huge difference to how customers use their 4x4,” CTEK Asia Pacific Director of Sales and Marketing, Robert Briggs, said.

“As part of a routine service, workshops can

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upgrade a customer’s electrical rig enabling them to enjoy more time off-roading, especially with demand for campsites expected to be at its peak this summer.”

The CTEK D250SE is an easy to install dual battery solution that delivers a powerful 20A of power for charging, conditioning and maintaining any 12V lead acid or Lithium LiFePO4 service battery whilst on the move.

The 20amp charger is capable of running off a normal or smart alternator and because it comes with a built-in MPPT solar regulator a solar panel can be plugged straight into the unit without the need for an additional regulator.

CTEK says the D250SE is also perfect for all Australian weather conditions because it comes with a built-in temperature regulator that increases the voltage during cold weather and reduces the charge in hot weather, ensuring risk free charging.

Such a solution is essential for customers who are keen to explore the wilder parts of Australia.

Further recommended tools from CTEK for offgrid journeys include the CTEK Smartpass 120S,

an automatic power management system that distributes power between the starter battery, the service battery and on-board equipment, separating critical equipment from non-critical equipment to ensure the radio, emergency lights and navigation systems always have power.

The CTEK D250SE and Smartpass 120S come with two-year warranty, and are available to purchase from Repco at $499 AUD and $530 AUD respectively.

For more from CTEK, visit www.ctek.com/au https://www.caravanindustry.com.au/ camping-trips-prove-popular-for-families-over-school-holidayswith-72-cabin-occupancy-an-increase-on-2019-figures

PRODUCTS

2021 D-MAX GETS THE ARB TREATMENT ARB has a range of accessories for the newly designed vehicle Isuzu recently launched the highly anticipated new D-MAX to market, receiving praise for its transformation from no-frills to one of the most advanced utes in its class with features including larger cabin space and a five-star safety rating.

To complement the vehicle’s attributes, ARB has developed a range of 4x4 accessories for those wanting to take it to the next level.

The newly designed vehicle called for development across the range of ARB vehiclespecific accessories.

CONFIGURE BATTERY MANAGEMENT SYSTEMS With Century Yu-Fit Today’s vehicles are becoming increasingly complex, with a variety of technologies now being employed by manufacturers to improve fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.

With the introduction of C02 production control systems including Idle Stop Start, it is essential that vehicles have a battery of the correct type and specification installed.

More importantly, several automotive manufacturers have introduced active energy management systems that require the replacement battery to be correctly configured to the vehicle following installation.

This configuration is required because a brandnew replacement battery requires a very different charging strategy compared to the battery which has reached the end of its serviceable life.

It will also inform the charging system of the new battery characteristics and ensure the correct charging strategy is applied right from the start.

Applying the old charging strategy to a new battery could result in a loss of Stop Start system functionality, loss of vehicle system functionality, plus increased fuel usage and C02 emissions.

Configuring a vehicle with the Yu-Fit tool following battery replacement will reportedly ensure the vehicle’s charging, energy management and system functionalities will perform as intended, and ensure that your customer will receive the best possible performance from their battery purchase.

The Century Yu-Fit tool comes pre-loaded with profiles for all common vehicle manufacturer make and models and receives regular updates to help keep pace with the latest changes to the Australian new car market – all by simply connecting the tool to your PC.

Century says that luckily, the configuration of these vehicle energy management systems can now be carried out simply and easily using its Century Yu-Fit battery configurator tool.

At the front of the vehicle is the Summit bull bar – ARB says this offers the highest level of protection to the engine bay from animal strikes, while also providing twin ARB Jack or Hi-Lift jack points and provisions for driving lights and UHF aerials.

The ARB Classic and Classic Plus canopies have been redesigned to suit the new shape of the tub, providing secure and weatherproof storage for customers and featuring lift-up or sliding side windows as well as a range of available roof carrying accessories including ARB’s new BASE Rack.

ARB has also confirmed fitment for already available vehicle-specific products including Outback Solutions drawers and Tailgate Assist, as well as the ARB range of non-vehicle-specific products.

Other products in the works include Old Man Emu suspension including GVM upgrade, the Ascent canopy, Sportlid, Sportguard, Ute Liner, a range of bull bars, rear step tow bars, UVP and recovery points.

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Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

The Yu-Fit tool can be used to configure the replacement battery to the vehicle’s active energy management system – informing the vehicle that a new battery of the correct type and performance has been installed.

Don’t leave your customers stranded – test every battery Century says research has proven the correlation between the more batteries you test, the more you sell. In Australia, approximately 750,000 vehicles per year require a roadside battery replacement – and over 70 percent of these vehicles would have been in a service bay or retail outlet within the last six months.

Century says proactive battery testing using a handheld tester like the DHC BT521A from Century Yuasa provides an accurate on the spot test result in minutes.

It can help identify suspect batteries before they fail and highlight problems with the vehicle’s starting and charging system. But more importantly, it helps your customers avoid the financial and emotional costs associated with a flat or faulty battery.

For more information, please contact your Century Yuasa representative on 1300 362 287 or visit www.centurybatteries.com.au

PRODUCTS

ICON SERIES IGNITION LEADS LAUNCHED Premier Auto Trade has launched the ICON Series range of replacement Ignition Lead sets The new range of direct fit ignition leads includes over 400 part numbers suitable for almost 3.6 million vehicle applications, making it the most comprehensive range in the Australian Aftermarket, says Premier Auto Trade (PAT).

The ICON Series Ignition Lead range reportedly includes high quality products manufactured in Europe, specifically tailored to each individual make and model of vehicle. To ensure optimum performance, PAT says all ICON Series Ignition Lead sets are supplied with a lead separator for safe and easy lead management.

ICON Series Ignition Leads all feature OE form, fit and function and are supplied in the same diameter cable as the original leads on the vehicle. PAT explains that it sources the highest grade and quality of materials possible, specifying the same cable technologies as offered by the original manufacturers, which meet or exceed the OEM specifications.

The new ICON Series range includes all different types of ignition leads, offering different specifications of heat ranges, resistance, and

construction suitable for a huge range of vehicle applications. They are made from durable, low resistance materials, and tested to withstand the harsh environment in which they operate.

To maximise radio suppression, resistance to temperature, water and oil degradation and chemical attack, PAT says all ICON Series Ignition Lead cable is manufactured with double silicone protection, using high quality Class F cable, tested to meet international ISO3808/ J2031 standards.

It explains that spark plug boots and terminal covers are moulded from silicone to give a watertight seal, and all terminals are machine crimped to ensure reliable connections over a long service life.

PAT says all ICON Series Ignition Leads are extensively tested, including Pull Off tests, both hot and cold temperature testing, checks on all terminals and connections and a high voltage immersion test to check for current seepage.

The ICON Series is said to be an extensive offering representing Premier Auto Trade’s heritage in

quality automotive products, and is covered by a two-year, 40,000km warranty, with all products listed in the OSCAR electronic aftermarket parts catalogue system from AutoInfo, including reference images for easy identification.

The full range of Premier Auto Trade products is available in the aftermarket via a network of specialised resellers and leading automotive groups.

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

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PRODUCTS

THE ULTIMATE RACING FILTER FRAM Filters offers a premium performance range for a number of performance engine specifications FRAM has more than 88 years of experience, research and development which it says makes it a market leader in filter technology.

Filpro Automotive says that the FRAM Racing Filter range is a further addition to the quality of the globally renowned brand.

Racing engines or engines for high performance passenger cars require unique oil filters to meet the demands of these vehicles. Filpro explains that the FRAM Racing Filter range provides maximum performance on the street or on the track.

Designed to provide superior high performance engine protection, FRAM Racing Filters are compatible with all engine oil formulations and use precision filtration for optimal performance for both racing, and high-performance street cars.

The Racing Filters are designed with low-restriction racing media, providing high oil flow to maintain lubrication of moving metal surfaces and to meet the demands of racing conditions.

The filter media reportedly features 94 percent efficiency at 20 microns (FRAM Group testing of average filter efficiency of HP3, HP8, HP17, HP20 under ISO 4548-12 for particles greater than 20 microns), for exceptional engine protection.

Filpro further explains that oil pressure levels in racing and performance engines can also far exceed that of the on-road daily driver.

This added pressure requires the Racing Filters to be made with a heavy-gauge tapping plate and an outer casing made from extra-thick steel (thicker than a standard oil filter) to withstand high pressure flexing from challenging operating conditions.

A spiral-shaped centre tube and tough steel end caps protects against filter collapse; whilst the added screen-over 22psi filter bypass valve, gives greater engine protection against larger contaminants.

Extensively used throughout NASCAR racing in the

United States, and with applications to fit various vehicle makes and models, including many classic and current high performance drag and circuit racing engines, Filpro says FRAM Racing Filters have been designed and manufactured to offer a premium quality, premium performance and racing engine filtration product option for racing enthusiasts, high performance vehicle technicians and racing teams.

The range coverage includes a wide number of performance engine specifications including GM, Ford, Chrysler, Nissan and Honda engines, including GM LS1 and LS6.

For more information visit www.framfilters.com.au or contact Filpro Automotive on 0400 878 837 or arossiter@filpro.com.au

RHINO LININGS PROTECTIVE COATINGS For work and play, your ute and equipment take a beating every day The Rhino Linings Australia team says its Rhino protective coatings can ensure they last.

Rhino Linings says it does not matter if you are investing in a new ute or looking to add life to your existing ute, truck, trailer, RV and equipment; Rhino’s spray applied lining is the proven solution.

It says Rhino’s advanced protection resists most chemicals, shrugs off abrasion and impact, and protects against rust and corrosion.

Rhino Linings Australia says it is committed to providing you with the highest level of impact, abrasion and corrosion resistance for your ute bed and truck, from grille guards, bumpers and rocker panels to sidesteps, it says you can rely on Rhino’s spray applied lining to protect your investment.

“Rhino Linings is the world’s leader in sprayed-on truck tray liners and the brand most asked for by name!” Rhino Linings Australia Marketing Manager Australasia, Lance Meredith, said.

liners (or other sprayed on products), Rhino Linings professionally installed linings provide the highest levels of corrosive resistance and are guaranteed not to rip, crack or tear.”

When working with Rhino Linings, Lance says you are dealing with a well-established and reputable spray on liner company.

“Since 1988, Rhino Linings has gained a reputation as the world’s leading manufacturer and supplier of premium protective coating solutions for the automotive industry.

“Rhino Linings’ products, technology and refined application techniques were pioneered and developed in the USA initially for the automotive industry – used primarily to protect utes, light commercial vehicles, and trailers of all kinds,” Lance said.

“Unlike plastic drop-in ute tub and truck tray

“Since then, many thousands of customers

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around the world have continued to utilise Rhino Linings premium protective coatings, realising the advantages of Rhino’s specialised formulations, practical experience and knowledge, backed by exceptional customer service, all the elements necessary to create the world’s most recognised and superior sprayed-on lining.

“Rhino Lining’s work is strictly monitored to ensure highest standards and we offer a genuine nationwide lifetime warranty guarantee.

“The long-term benefits gained by users of Rhino Linings are substantial.”

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

PRODUCTS

JW SPEAKER OFFERS “BIGGEST RANGE OF LEDS” Invision Sales says the leading manufacturer has solutions for a wide range of applications As a leading manufacturer in LED lighting systems for every vehicle and machine from massive mine equipment and trucks to buses, 4WDs and passenger cars, Invision Sales says the JW Speaker range and quality is simply unmatched anywhere in the world.

As a key supplier to the world’s leading OEMs such as CAT, Komatsu, Bobcat, Honda, Dubota, Harley Davidson, John Deer and Mclaren, Invision Sales says JW Speaker has a worldwide reputation for ground-breaking lighting technology with the stringent quality standards demanded by OE customers.

Invision Sales says the identical technology and standards are engrained in everything JW Speaker produce for the mining, agriculture, industrial and transport industries in countries such as Canada, Germany, England, Chile, South Africa, Indonesia, New Zealand, and Australia.

“Premium quality products that improve safety on the roads and in the workplace using world leading innovation is at the heart of everything JW Speaker design and manufacture,” Invision Sales Managing Director, Wayne Blackman, said.

“The company has a sophisticated development system that collects data from around the world to continually improve the performance and quality of their products.”

Invision Sales says JW Speaker has now established an LED globe program that includes Direct Fit for halogen replacement, Evolution 4000 for the

ultimate power, Fog lights, Signalling, Specialist headlight kits and globes designed specifically for projector systems.

“Today’s headlight systems are far too complex for a ‘one globe fits all’ concept. Apart from losing valuable lighting performance, it can be very dangerous to oncoming drivers if the headlight bulb does not meet the manufacturer’s specifications,” Wayne said.

“Without precisely positioned LED chips and shields, the high and low beam cut off is not exact and can cause uncontrolled light flare.

“Also, the triangular design of the projector bulbs means the exact performance is delivered giving the driver the best light possible on the road.”

Along with its extensive range of powerful LED headlights, Invision Sales says JW Speaker leads the world in worklights, emergency, signalling, motorcycle, fog and driving lights.

To see the range of LED lighting solutions, visit www.invisionsales.com or for more information, call 03 9336 2066.

PRESSURE CONTROL ARB has released its new Bluetooth Pressure Control Module One of the key features of ARB’s vehicle accessory interface, LINX, is that it allows users to set and control the compressor directly from the device without the need for an inflation or deflation gauge.

Now, ARB engineers have developed a standalone system that it says gives all users unmatched convenience and control when it is time to air up and down.

Introducing ARB’s Pressure Control Module, a Bluetooth module that allows hands-free operation during the air up or down process.

To use, simply plug the hose into the compressor and straight into the tyre and operate the compressor via your phone using the Compressor Connect app.

With the ability to set a target pressure or save up to four custom presets for common uses such as sand, bitumen or gravel, the Bluetooth module will let air out or pump air into the tyre to hit the desired pressure and advise you via vibration and/or audio alerts.

ARB says using this module removes the need for a tyre gauge, streamlining the process when in the moment.

The Pressure Control Module is available for $300 (Australian East Coast metro pricing) and the Compressor Connect app is downloadable for iOS or Android.

For more information, visit www.arb.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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PRODUCTS

SELECTING A THERMATIC ELECTRIC FAN MADE EASY Davies, Craig has expanded its Thermatic Electric Fan Selection Guide Davies, Craig Pty Ltd has just completed a comprehensive expansion to its Thermatic Electric Fan Selection Guide which it says will make choosing the most appropriate Davies Craig Thermatic Electric Fan for purpose so simple.

Davies, Craig says that thanks to this expanded guide, you can now select the most suitable Thermatic Electric Fan/s for your vehicle or any radiator with just a few clicks at www.daviescraig.com.au The process is as follows:

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• Go to www.daviescraig.com.au and login.

• Click onto ‘Fan Selection Guide’ in the grey banner at the center of the home page.

• This will take you to the ‘Fan Fitments Search’ where you have two options for searching: a) ‘By Vehicle Information’ – place your Vehicle Make and Model into the appropriate spaces provided. If the Make and Model does not appear or your radiator is a custom-built unit, go to b) ‘By Dimensions Of Your Radiator’ and place into the appropriate spaces provided the width, height, clearance/depth, and voltage.

• In both option a and b above, two options will automatically pop up: o Option #1 – Maximum Airflow, (largest, most powerful Thermatic Electric Fan unit/s possible)

of USA models may not appear in the Vehicle Information file.

It explains that therefore ‘By Dimensions of Your Radiator’ is quite an easy method, arriving at the most suitable Thermatic Electric Fan/s for your vehicle’s radiator.

All Davies, Craig Thermatic Electric Fans are equipped with reversible blades and reversible polarity motors for installation to the front (pusher, upstream) or rear (puller, downstream) of your vehicle’s radiator.

o Option #2 – Lower Profile (for example, ‘Slimline’ - for limited space between engine block and radiator)

All Davies Craig’s Thermatic Electric Fans are Australian-made and are offered with a two-year warranty.

Davies, Craig acknowledges that a good number

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

PRODUCTS

RYCO FILTERS INCREASES JAPANESE SERVICE KIT INCLUSIONS The range now contains a sump plug washer Ryco Filters says it boasts the most comprehensive range of Japanese Service Kits available on the market, and it now includes sump plug washers as part of the pack inclusions.

In what is an industry first for aftermarket brands, Ryco’s Japanese Service Kits come with the oil and fuel filters, a PCV filter (where applicable) and now the sump plug washers relevant to the required engine application.

Ryco says its Japanese Service Kits are the most complete kit of their type available on the market; stating that not only are they the most cost effective and convenient way to service and maintain Japanese commercial vehicles, but having all the key parts in the one pack means you minimise selection errors and reduce inventory costs.

Japanese Service Kits by Ryco suit Japanese brands Fuso, Hino, Isuzu and UD. In fact, Ryco says it offers the largest range of Japanese Service Kits on the market, with over 50 variants to choose from, and they are all said to meet and exceed original equipment specifications and maintain factory warranties.

“Whether you’re an owner operator with a single

truck or a fleet manager maintaining 100 trucks, thanks to our extensive range of Japanese Service Kits, Ryco has you covered,” Ryco Filters General Manager Commercial, Nathan Grant, said.

“Our point of difference is the breadth of parts within the Kit. Ryco Japanese Service Kits have all the parts a technician needs to do the job right, including the sump plug washers at no additional cost.”

Smartly packaged and clearly labelled, Ryco included sump plug washers after calls were made to include them by many businesses within the industry.

Listening to their customers, Ryco says it recognised the importance of convenience for

technicians, helping to reduce work frustration and improve productivity.

An Australian-owned business, Ryco tests its filter products right here in Melbourne, at Australasia’s only dedicated filtration laboratory, to ensure all parts within the Japanese Service Kits excel in three critical areas – efficiency, life and flow.

Efficiency focuses on the percentage of dirt that a filter removes. Life considers how long a filter lasts before clogging up, and flow determines how easily air, oil or fuel flows through the filter.

For more information, visit your local Ryco stockist or www.rycofilters.com.au/Commercial or call Ryco’s dedicated customer service hotline on 1800 804 541 and ask for Ryco’s Japanese Service Kits.

M&B MOBILE TYRE CHANGER AND WHEEL BALANCER Available now from Interequip It is not often a product comes along which significantly contributes to your work health and safety obligations, makes life easier and increases your business’ productivity.

Interequip says it believes the latest “all in one” mobile tyre fitting and balancing machine from the Italian manufacturer M&B Engineering does just that.

Traditionally mobile tyre fitters have had to work with slide hammers and tyre levers using brute strength to change tyres. Typically, this has been very demanding on a technicians’ back and stamina.

The M&B Engineering machine minimises the physical exertion on technicians required to fit tyres for trucks or passenger vehicles. This generally means they are capable of fitting more tyres without tiring which has the potential to increase productivity which can prove to be of particular benefit when servicing fleet customers at their depot.

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folds out and is capable of fitting passenger vehicle tyres from 13” up to 26” as well as truck tyres without the use of traditional tyre levers.

At the same time, its compact size means it is capable of being loaded into a normal high roof van or light truck.

Once the tyre has been fitted it can be balanced with the inbuilt wheel balancer which also features a handy aluminium stick on weight program.

The M&B Engineering machine reportedly easily removes the tyre from the rim in a leverless procedure and the wheel assembly can be balanced straight after fitting.

When it comes to truck tyres, there is also no need for the newly fitted tyre to return to base to be balanced, adding to the productivity of the trucking company as this procedure is quite easily performed at the side of the road or nearest safe truck stop, says Interequip.

The compact all in one design means the machine takes up a minimal amount of valuable van work

space, allowing for a greater range of tyres to be carried in the service vehicle.

Interequip says the machine has proven very popular with European tyre service suppliers and is beginning to gain ground here with one of Australia’s largest tyre suppliers.

M&B also has other models of car tyre changers (TC528IT, TC525PG), truck tyre changers (Dido30, Dido56), car wheel balancers (WB640) and truck wheel balancers (WB690) on offer.

For more information, please contact Interequip Pty Ltd on 18000EQUIP or info@interequip.com.au

PRODUCTS

BMC 4WD AIR FILTER RANGE GROWS Designed and manufactured in Italy BMC Air Filters says it has continued the development of its range of high-performance OE replacement air filters for Australian 4WD vehicle applications.

BMC air filters are designed to increase power and improve fuel economy, without compromising reliability. They are said to be easy to install and reportedly ensure a higher air flow than OE filters, producing less than half the pressure drop when compared to paper filters.

LED SEALED BEAM REPLACEMENTS Thunder and Great White offer LED headlights built specifically for the Australian and NZ market Replacing a pair of sealed beam halogen headlights with LED versions is a quick and easy upgrade to many 4WDs, hot rods or even a classic Australian muscle car.

With the abundance of options available online it would seem, at first glance, to be a cheap and simple win as well.

Unfortunately, says NAPA, there are a few pitfalls involved in going the cheap route that could make it a much more complicated and expensive modification.

It says the most obvious danger with some LED headlights can simply be material and manufacturing.

NAPA recommends that you always look for a light with a good aluminium body for heat dissipation and a UV treated polycarbonate lens, as opposed to plastic or glass, for strength.

It warns there can also be wiring issues due to negative switching or CANBUS systems that can be difficult to work around if the solution is not incorporated in the light itself.

BMC says its air filters offer excellent engine protection through a high level of filtering efficiency.

A special four-ply multilayer cotton filtration material guarantees containment of impurities from as small as seven microns, where paper filters generally offer filtration of particles of only 10 microns.

BMC Air Filter moulds are made using a single piece system avoiding breakage or deformation and use a compound of increased strength resins which reportedly avoids the filter ‘sucking’ into the airbox.

The OE headlight being replaced might also incorporate additional functions like park, DRL and indicators. So, replacement headlights must also incorporate these compliant functions, otherwise the additional functions not included will need to be purchased separately and installed on the vehicle.

The larger, but less obvious, danger is the fact that in Australia and New Zealand we drive on the left-hand side of the road, a trait we share with only 30 percent of the world.

This means our headlights will “cut” slightly to the left, to avoid shining directly into oncoming traffic (while still giving adequate visibility on

the off side of the vehicle for pedestrians for example).

We therefore need lights that are specifically ADR (Australian design regulation) approved.

With most vehicle lighting we adhere to the international standards (ECE, ECR) as they are not specific to direction. Unfortunately, a LHD and a RHD headlight can both meet the same international standard, but only the RHD one will adhere to the ADR. The other Standard often seen advertised is the SAE standard (Society of Automotive Engineers).

This is a USA standard governed by DOT, (US Department of Transport), and NAPA says any and all headlights with these approvals or markings on them will be illegal for use in Australia or New Zealand, as they will all be made to suit LHD vehicles.

If a RHD vehicle has a set of LHD headlights fitted to it, it says the only fix is to remove and replace them. There is no way to make a set of LHD headlights safe or legal for use in Australia or New Zealand.

BMC air filters can be cleaned and regenerated and have a general lifespan equal to that of the vehicle, saving the cost of changing the air filter each time the vehicle is serviced.

The replacement headlights being installed must be compliant for all the lighting functions that it contains. Therefore, multi-function lights claim more than 1 ADR or ECE compliance marks.

The filter can even be cleaned and regenerated while out on the tracks, with the handy aerosol service kit.

NAPA says that both the Thunder (TDR08030) and the Great White (GWF5005 & GWF5010) LED Headlights are designed and built specifically to suit the Australian and New Zealand markets and are certified ADR compliant.

The 4WD range now includes air filters for many popular 4WD makes and models and the full range of BMC Air Filters is available via a network of Specialised Resellers and Authorised Dealers.

To check the BMC Air Filter for your vehicle and to find your local stockist, go to www.bmcairfilter.com.au/ product-search/ 60

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It says while they may cost a little more than some online options, they are simple plug and play replacements that can work with negative switching or CANBUS systems and are 100 percent legal.

For more information, visit www.napa.co.nz, www.thunderauto.com.au or www.greatwhites.com.au

PRODUCTS

PENRITE RELEASES NEW COOLANT The Australian owned and operated company has just released its new ‘Purple OEM Coolant’ range The new Purple OEM Coolant range from Penrite – which consists of Concentrate and Premix products – features the latest specification PSi-OAT coolants as used by manufacturers such as VW, Audi, Skoda, Porsche, Lamborghini, Bentley, Deutz and Volvo.

Penrite says the coolants are also ideal for use in vehicles such as Toyota, Hyundai, Kia, Mitsubishi, and other Asian manufacturers that are currently using P-OAT based coolants.

The new Penrite Purple OEM coolant is approved for use in VAG (Volkswagen Automotive Group) vehicles such as Volkswagen, Audi, Skoda, Bentley, Lamborghini, Bugatti, and Porsche where the new TL 774-L/G12evo specifications are required.

It may also be used as a replacement where TL 744-J (G13) was previously specified, provided a full system service is completed.

Penrite explains that its new OEM Purple

Coolants are designed for modern “downsized,” high power density, hotter running engines used in the latest generation of passenger cars as well as in many other engines.

The extended long-life inhibitor formulation reportedly prevents rust, corrosion, cavitation, and degradation of the cooling system for eight years or 500,000km.

Since 1926, Penrite says its products have helped shape the country.

Penrite has remained a 100 percent Australian owned and operated business, which says it is committed to producing the best lubricants, coolants, and additives; made right here in Australia.

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

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR AIR FILTERS Fleetguard offers a number of solutions in this area Air filtration is a simple concept; but in order to get the best performance from your engine, and the most out of your air filter, there are a few other technologies worth being aware of. From precleaners to advanced media innovations, Fleetguard says the following solutions are designed to help lower your total cost of ownership.

Fleetguard Sy-Klone Precleaners

Fleetguard Magnum

Fleetguard says they provide high efficiency removal of larger particulates that would otherwise contribute to more rapid blockage of an air filter element.

Every filter has a given surface area in which to capture and retain contaminants. Fleetguard says Magnum filters fit in more media than traditional air filters, providing greater surface area for trapping particles.

Greater surface area means greater capacity, resulting in longer service intervals and reducing the need for filters to be changed as often.

Precleaners help reduce the contamination load of an air filter by removing particles before they get to the element.

Fleetguard Sy-Klone precleaners are an ejective type precleaner, which reportedly require zero maintenance.

Precleaners work to extend service intervals, reducing downtime and TCO.

Restriction Indicators

Fleetguard says its Magnum filters help to reduce downtime and lower an engine’s total cost of ownership (TCO).

The humble restriction indictor is a small but important accessory and is very useful in determining when a filter needs changing, allowing you to service only when necessary, and never prematurely.

Magnum filter upgrades are identified by the “M” suffix on the end of the part number. Many Fleetguard air filters are available with Magnum upgrades.

Fleetguard says restriction indicators ensure you get the longest possible life out of your air filters and therefore prevent you from wasting time and money on unnecessary servicing.

Safety Elements The safety element, also referred to as the secondary or inner element, has an important role to play. If your air filtration system is fitted with one of these, Fleetguard says you only need to change it every third primary filter element change because all of the hard work is done by the primary filter, and typically, the safety element should see very little contamination.

Generally, it says the only contamination that the safety element faces, is what falls off the primary element during a service. By ensuring safety elements are changed on this basis, Fleetguard says you save on parts and labour, lowering TCO. For more information, call 1800 030 037 or visit www.fleetguard.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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MEMBER FEATURE

SEEING RED!

Milwaukee says it is leading the world in Cordless Power Tool innovation and in 2021 it has its sights firmly locked on growing its penetration in the Automotive Industry. Supported by an aggressive product launch schedule, there is little doubt visitors will start ‘seeing red’ more often when visiting their local automotive workshop Milwaukee Tool has a rich history in the automotive industry, providing trade solutions for transportation professionals for over 96 years.

“Our mission is, and always has been, to improve the lives of our users,” Milwaukee Tool National Business Manager – Brand, Tom Mathiesen, said.

“Our team is committed to working beside independent automotive workshops to learn about your biggest challenges and engineer products to help you overcome them.”

Milwaukee’s long and successful history can be traced back as far as another icon of automotive innovation, the Model T Ford.

“As the end of the First World War drew near, Model T car magnate Henry Ford approached a young manufacturer named A.H. Petersen with a challenge,” Tom explained. “Ford challenged Petersen to produce a smaller, lighter, portable 1⁄4” capacity power drill.”

A.H. Petersen, who had already been producing tools and dies for the Ford Motor Company for several years, seized the opportunity to provide Ford with the tool he needed to streamline the Model T production.

“Previous models of two-handed drills were heavy and cumbersome,” Tom described. “Only a few of the strongest mechanics could use them productively, but when Petersen presented Ford with his solution, The Hole-Shooter, it changed the course of automotive history.”

Weighing in at only five-pounds and powered with a series type Westinghouse motor, the HoleShooter was the industry’s first, lightweight, one-handed drill.

“When a disastrous fire hit Petersen’s facility, his colleague A.F. Siebert bought the business intending to develop the Hole-Shooter under his newly formed enterprise, the Milwaukee Electric Tool Corporation,” Tom said.

“From that moment, the industry was propelled through countless revolutions and industrial triumphs. Today, that trajectory has not stopped.

And neither have we.”

Henry Ford’s initial request shaped not only the history of Milwaukee Tool, but also shifted the entire automotive landscape.

“The world around us may have changed, but our commitment to the automotive industry hasn’t,” said Tom. 64

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“Milwaukee Tool is as dedicated now to overcoming your challenges as we were over 96 years ago.”

Whether it is cordless impact wrenches or under hood lighting, Milwaukee Tool explains it has developed the power tools, hand tools, and accessories that help every workshop be safe and efficient and is dedicated to providing trade solutions for professional users.

“Our ‘Nothing but Heavy Duty’ tools are made to withstand the harshest, most demanding challenges in modern transportation,” said Tom. “We make it our business to get on-site with you to learn first-hand where our products are most needed, and how we can make them even better.”

Working closely with the Australian and New Zealand transportation industries, the Milwaukee Job Site Solutions (JSS) team helps the business stay one step ahead of the ever-changing automotive sector demands. Tom explains this connection means that all Milwaukee solutions are efficient, more productive, safer to use, and, most importantly, geared for professionals.

“Our Job Site Solutions team consists of experienced, trade specialised experts, with knowledge across all modes of transport,” said Tom. “They’ll bring the best advice and the best range of transportation-focused power tools, hand tools, and accessories to your workshop.

“From repairs and maintenance to bodywork and detailing, our site specialists ensure that the tools you have on hand, your ways of working, and your workshop’s safety and efficiency are maximised.”

Rob Herrod, the man behind the legendary Herrod Performance, has witnessed countless advancements in the automotive industry. He has also seen the evolution of automotive tools and is a staunch supporter of the Milwaukee brand.

“I started my career in 1975 as a mechanic when I was just 15 years old,” Rob said. “The only thing, other than hand tools we had back in those days, was an air gun.”

But that all changed when his first gamechanger in his father’s workshop was the purchase of an electric gun for removing wheel nuts. But that came with its own set of challenges – namely, hoses and cords.

“It was a nuisance. The cord would break. The cord would twist. And it would always break down and play up,” Rob described.

The move to a cordless workshop has been a blessing for Herrod, who says that cordless

MEMBER FEATURE platform One-Key provides a new level of control and access for users, that is revolutionising the way work gets done.”

One-Key allows workshop owners to access information about their Milwaukee Tools inventory from anywhere, in the workshop, in the office, or on-the-go from a computer, tablet, or smartphone.

The inventory dashboard helps you draw quick insights. Smart filters display essential information and a stream of recent transfers across your jobs, bringing you up to speed whenever you launch the app.

“With One-Key, you can increase accountability across jobs by seeing if an item is available and where it’s assigned,” Tom explained.

“Workshop owners can build a digital breadcrumb trail with an accessible history of when, where, and who is using their tools. Then harness this information to make better judgments about their continued use, or retrace the steps to find missing items.”

tools have, without a doubt, revolutionised the automotive industry.

“I have had other cordless tools in the past. And I was not particularly happy with their performance,” Rob said.

“They were always breaking down or something, but when we switched to Milwaukee cordless products, we noticed a significant improvement in efficiencies.”

During the past three to four years, Herrod has trusted the Milwaukee range to support his workshop’s most significant projects. Over that time, Herrod estimates that they have built, inhouse, around 300 supercharged Mustangs, including the Scott McLaughlin Limited Edition Mustang, the Dick Johnson Limited Edition Mustang, and the special edition Ford Mustang R-SPEC. When building the R-SPEC, Herrod and his team

heavily used Milwaukee routers, cordless ratchets, and cordless wrenches. These tools were used along a Ford production line, which to Herrod, demonstrated the quality of these products.

“We’ve probably reduced, maybe, an hour of build on each car by using Milwaukee cordless tools,” Rob explained.

“When you think about it, that’s a massive win, so over the past four or so years, we’ve saved about 300 man hours.”

When it comes to innovation in the cordless power tool industry, especially on a scale like Herrod, managing tools and equipment is critical, and that’s where Milwaukee’s ‘One-Key’ system is said to be breaking new ground.

“One-Key is the first digital platform for managing tools and equipment,” Tom explained.

“By integrating industry-leading smart-tool technology with a custom-built, cloud-based

In addition, Milwaukee’s One-Key system simplifies tool maintenance by providing the option to set service reminders on tools and equipment.

Milwaukee’s team has already hinted that they will be launching a massive number of automotive industry-specific tools in 2021. To keep independent automotive workshop owners up-to-date with its latest innovations, Milwaukee has recently published ‘Torque,’ its very own automotive magazine.

“We’re extremely excited about the launch of our new automotive magazine, Torque,” Tom mentioned.

The first issue of Torque is already out, and it is chock full of interesting articles and new product releases, and the team at Milwaukee will release a further three editions this year.

“We’ve created Torque to encourage and inspire transportation professionals to think big and build bigger,” Tom explained.

“Torque is to is a space to share our stories and yours, through trade features, professional spotlights, upcoming industry events, and a curated selection of Milwaukee solutions.”

Of course, Milwaukee and the AAAA have always enjoyed a close working relationship.

“The AAAA delivers so much value to their members,” said Tom. “They support our interests, help us identify emerging trends in the automotive aftermarket.

“In addition, we have been lucky enough to work with them on the to fit out the Auto Innovation Centre; an amazing resource that is sure to deliver exceptional outcomes for members.”

To discover how Milwaukee’s Job Site Specialists can help your workshop site run smoother, and to request a site visit, call 1300 645 928 or visit www.milwaukeetool.com.au/jobsite-solutions Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

BENDIX CONSUMABLES AEROSOL RANGE Covering all of the basics required by the trade, car enthusiasts and households Bendix has released an exciting range of aerosols which it says covers all of the basics required by the trade, car enthusiasts and households.

Included in the range are: • Multi-Use Penetrating and Lubricating aerosol – an important part of the range. Designed and developed as a heavy-duty water dispersant, it also assists in lubricating, protecting and starting wet engines, stopping squeaks and lubricating rusted parts.

• Smooth White Lithium Grease aerosol – an all-purpose lubricant to protect surfaces from abrading or scratching other surfaces and ideal for lubricating wheel bearings under all service conditions, CV joints, hinges, door catches plus many more uses. Smooth is ideally suited to automotive, marine, agricultural, general industrial and household uses.

• Bendix Brake and Parts Cleaner – designed to rapidly remove oils, brake fluids, dust, dirt, grease and other contaminants from brake linings, disc pads, drums, clutch plates,

rotors and so on surrounding the brake parts; while also stopping brake squeal and can be applied without dismantling the brakes. As the label suggests, Brake and Parts Cleaner also cleans other components and workshop equipment.

• Bendix Silicone aerosol – for multiple uses providing the ideal protection for plastic, vinyl and rubber, sliding tracks, locks, fishing equipment, chain and moving belts in automotive, marine, household plus a host of general applications.

• Degrease aerosol – a powerful multipurpose degreaser formulated to remove heavy grease from car and small engines, concrete floors, driveways and workshop surfaces.

• New Shine aerosol – the easiest way to shine your tyres, mud flaps and bumpers. This new product from Bendix not only provides the ultimate appearance but prevents dirt from forming on the surfaces.

The Bendix consumables aerosols range is now available from leading automotive and

transport outlets nation-wide, providing “super convenience with quality formulations that ideally suit the broadest range of applications.”

For more information free call the Bendix Brake Advice Centre on 1800 819 666 or +61 3 5327 0211 from overseas (8am-5pm Monday to Friday EST), e-mail brakeadvicecentre@bendix.com.au or visit www.bendix.com.au

ULTIMATE TRANSMISSION PROTECTION With ZF LifeguardFluid Oils Modern transmissions - one of ZF’s primary areas of expertise - are incredibly complex and careful consideration of the right oil is required to maximise operational benefits such as reduced fuel consumption, lower CO2 emissions and greater reliability over a vehicle’s life.

vehicle enjoys optimised fuel economy and reduced wear on components, thus decreasing maintenance and operating costs.

Made specifically for ZF transmissions, ZF LifeguardFluid is a premium grade lubricant that headlines the ZF Aftermarket range of transmission oils, says ZF.

These specialised ZF Aftermarket transmission lubricants are said to contain a matched combination of high-quality base oils and special additives, which reportedly delivers excellent lubrication and friction properties even under the most extreme of operating conditions.

ZF LifeguardFluid has been developed to deliver maximum transmission performance so that passengers enjoy smoother gearshifts, and the

ZF Aftermarket says it additionally markets a range of premium quality oils suited to the broad spectrum of vehicles on our roads.

ZF says its LifeguardFluid oils support perfect shifting behaviour, comparable to the level of a new car, and vibration-free operation.

Transmissions, including the transmission oil, are subject to wear, which depends on the conditions under which a vehicle is operated.

High temperatures and loads – caused, for example, by a sporty driving style, the regular transport of heavy loads or trailer operation – have a significant influence on wear. This is a decisive factor, especially with regards to the unclear past of a used car.

In order to keep the service life and performance of the transmission optimal, ZF Aftermarket

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recommends on the one hand, regular checks, and on the other hand, regular transmission oil changes.

In this way, vehicle owners not only enjoy an optimally functioning transmission, but also prevent costly repairs.

ZF LifeguardFluid oils are available for four, five, six, eight and nine speed applications in a variety of sizes, depending on the application.

For more information, visit www.zf.com/lubricants or call 1800 ZF SALES (1800 93 72537).

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

MOREY OIL Morey Oil says it offers the ultimate lubrication for your 4WD Four Wheel Drive and All Wheel Drive vehicles have now become extremely popular vehicles among many.

This could be for height, stability, towing, adventure, or the extreme four-wheel driver.

Morey Oil Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer These vehicles, compared to regular cars on the road, have more serviceable areas. Including front and rear differentials plus the transfer case, this means more oils and more oil seals.

Morey Oil says its Heavy Duty Oil Stabilizer is suited for use in all these oils.

It says its HDOS will keep the oil “Newer for Longer” while maintaining oil pressure in the engine, rejuvenating seals in the differentials and transfer case and maintaining smoother gear changes in both automatic and manual gear boxes.

Morey Oil says the product also prevents metal to metal contact on gears in differentials, reducing wear, and delivers smoother operating power steering units.

Morey Oil says that basically, where there is an

oil, you can add its HDOS to it for the ultimate protection.

Morey Oil BigFoot Fire Orange Grease Morey Oil says that some standard greases, and even some of the quality greases, are just not good enough when it comes to meeting your grease lubrication needs.

If you are doing any sort of four-wheel driving, tackling beach or creek crossings, dirty dusty roads, mud, and slush or the extreme of everything, Morey Oil says only a high-quality grease will do the job.

It warns that grease contamination can be a very costly expense, that can be prevented.

Even if the vehicle has an underbody wash after four-wheel driving, if the contamination has already penetrated the grease, or the grease has been displaced, the damage has already begun.

Morey says its BigFoot Fire Orange Grease is the answer – stating that with its very sticky/tacky nature, BigFoot grease will prevent this from happening as even in the toughest conditions of

water, dirt or mud this grease “stays in place.”

“This is the grease that everyone is talking about, with superior quality lithium complex grease used in a large variety of industries throughout,” Morey Oil said.

Morey Oil invites you to also enquire about the Morey Oil fuel conditioners/cleaners to complete the vehicle service package.

For more information, contact the Morey Oil Head Office on 1800 637 173 or visit www.moreyoil.com.au

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LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

MOTHERS ULTIMATE HYBRID PRODUCTS Traditional car care, supercharged with advanced ceramic formulas Command Auto Group says it is very excited to bring the new Mothers Ultimate Hybrid products to the Australian enthusiast.

Building on the release of the “game changing” CMX Range of true Ceramic Coating products, Command Auto Group says it can now announce the Ultimate Hybrid Range release as a new family of products.

It says these products are dedicated to the highest quality in car care, significantly increasing ease of use to achieve professional lasting results.

“Mothers Ultimate Hybrid is the perfect combination of traditional, old-school carnauba and high-tech, new-school ceramic,” Command Auto Group Marketing Director, James Kennedy, said.

“Featuring a balanced blend of advanced science and traditional car care, this combination seamlessly unites trusted and time-tested methods and the natural protection of carnauba wax, with the cutting-edge nano-quartz ceramic technology of today. It’s that easy!”

The new Mothers Ultimate Hybrid Products are due to be available in March 2021.

Command Auto Group explains the range as follows:

• Ultimate Hybrid Ceramic Wax 473ml (Product # 05566): Old school liquid wax meets new school ceramic technology. Hybrid Ceramic Wax features ultra-fine polishes that remove minor imperfections and oxidation, paving the way for a long lasting Si02 fortified shine.

Apply it by hand or with your buffer and get that familiar wax application/removal with modern ceramic benefits.

• Ultimate Hybrid Ceramic Spray Wax 710ml (Product # 05764): Like the ease of spray products? Love the look of traditional wax?

Want the benefits of ceramic technology?

Here’s the solution – an easy to apply and remove spray wax that can be used anytime, anywhere. The new hybrid spray wax features an ultra-slick formula that lubricates while it cleans, leaving a scratch-free, SiO2 protected, liquidy gloss finish.

• Ultimate Hybrid Ceramic Detailer and Bead Booster 710ml (Product # 08264 UPC #078175082640): The quickest, easiest way to bring back that waterbeading, superhydrophobic, liquidy-gloss ceramic appearance. Quick touch-ups and maintenance between washings – with ceramic benefits – have never been easier. It

can be used over your existing ceramic coating or wax, or as a stand- alone bead booster on uncoated vehicles.

• Ultimate Hybrid 1-Step Ceramic Clay and Coat (Product # 7260) Including 710ml bottle, Ceramic Detailer, Clay Tool, and Microfibre Towel: What could be better than ceramic coating your paint in just minutes?

Claying and protecting, that’s what! This patented synthetic clay tool, paired with Mothers Ultimate Hybrid Ceramic Detailer, shears off and removes surface and embedded contaminants in just minutes, leaving you with a long-lasting, SiO2 ceramic fortified shine that beads like crazy and shines like there’s no tomorrow.

For more information or to secure the range for your store, please contact Command Auto Group on sales@tcag.com.au or 028853 2900 or visit www.commandauto.com.au

MEGUIAR’S HYPER WASH A little goes a long way COVID-19 has pretty much turned the workshop universe upside down. The silver lining in this foreboding black cloud is that independent workshops are thriving, which Meguiar’s says in turn has created unrivalled opportunities to grow your business.

It says one strategy successful workshops are employing to enhance customer experience, is to provide complimentary car washing.

Returning a vehicle washed and cleaned often leaves a more positive impression than other gestures such as discounted parts and labour – which can easily strip hundreds of dollars of profit out of a job.

More so, customers often don’t notice any improvement following a routine service however, they always notice their car has been washed.

Meguiar’s says its Hyper Wash is perfect for workshops looking to value-add via a detailing service.

It says it is super concentrated with a dilution ratio of 400:1 – so a little goes a very long way 68

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

– and at $79.99 RRP the 3.9-litre works out at around 50 cents a wash, while the $289.95 RRP 19-litre option drops that down to just 40 cents which Meguiar’s says is “unbelievably good value!”

Unlike typical bulk cleaners, which tend to be overly harsh and aggressive, Meguiar’s says its Hyper Wash is the same premium-quality wash that Meguiar’s is world famous for.

It reports that its powerful sudsing formula produces rich, stable foam that lasts the whole wash – even in the hardest water.

Further, Meguiar’s says the Hyper Wash’s exceptional cleaning power safely lifts dirt and grime, without stripping away the protective wax from your customer’s paintwork – all while delivering a deep, glossy shine.

Ideal for both traditional suds ‘n’ bucket washing, or in a Meguiar’s Snow Foaming Cannon, Hyper Wash is biodegradable and rinses off clean with no streaking or water spotting once the car has been dried off.

“If all that isn’t enough, it also smells great. It is

no wonder Meguiar’s Hyper Wash is a favourite of professional detailers around the globe,” Meguiar’s says.

For more information, visit www.meguiars.com.au or call 1800 347 570 or head into your nearest Repco to purchase.

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

BRAKLEEN WATER BASED LAUNCHED CRC has introduced a new product to its Brakleen line-up CRC Industries has expanded its range of heavyduty mechanical maintenance products with the addition of a “state of the art” water-based brake and parts cleaner to its industry-leading Brakleen family.

CRC says the new Brakleen Water Based is strong on grime yet easy on the planet; offering nextgeneration high performance cleaning technology which is pH neutral and safe on surfaces, users and the environment.

CRC Industries Trans-Tasman Managing Director, Murray Walbran, said the product had been scientifically formulated for use across the automotive, industrial and service industry sectors.

“We are very pleased to be launching Brakleen Water Based to the market, a unique product that combines outstanding high-performance degreasing and cleaning qualities with a very positive clean safety profile,’’ Murray said.

CRC Brakleen Water Based is biodegradable, non-toxic, non-hazardous, non-flammable, pH balanced, and water soluble. The advanced

formula is powerful but non-abrasive, noncorrosive and solvent free.

It has been specially formulated to penetrate and dissolve tough grease, oil brake fluid, transmission fluid, hardened deposits and other contaminants – without the need for disassembly.

CRC Brakleen Water Based is said to be gentle on the environment, being biodegradable with all ingredients readily decomposable.

“These properties make it ideal for use in many applications especially where there are regulations or restrictions in place concerning the types of products that can be safely used or allowed onto sites,’’ Murray said.

“The product has no volatile organic vapours, making it ideal for use in confined spaces. It can also be safely rinsed into oil water separators.”

Applications for Brakleen Water Based include fast and effective cleaning of brake and clutch parts and general mechanical equipment.

Available in a 500ml aerosol, CRC Brakleen Water Based joins the Brakleen family consisting

of Brakleen, Brakleen Force, Brakleen NF and Non-Chlorinated Brakleen in delivering superior parts-cleaning technology, explains CRC. “Developed in 1971, CRC Brakleen was the original brake and parts cleaner and is still an industry leader today,” Murray said.

“In an ever-changing market, the launch of Brakleen Water Based is an important addition to CRC as we remain focussed on delivering innovative solutions to our customers whilst adhering to the strictest protocols for safety and the environment.”

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

YOUR FLUID AND LUBRICANT NEEDS COVERED Unique Auto Parts has a range of high-quality lubricants and fluids available While Unique Auto Parts has become well known in the industry for supplying top quality new parts for European makes including Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche, and Volvo, it also stocks high quality lubricants and fluids.

Unique Auto Parts says it has got all bases covered with products available for application areas such as the engine, transmission, differential, power steering and brake systems.

Products available also include fuel system and engine cleaners and windscreen fluid.

In recent years, Unique Auto Parts explains it has introduced Carlube oils and Bluecol coolants to the Australian market and although Carlube has recently rebranded its products, Unique Auto Parts says they are still the same great OEM quality they have always been known for.

Carlube oils are not only recommended for all modern vehicles with a specific focus on European makes, Unique Auto Parts explains they also come with approval from some of the world’s leading car manufacturers such as Mercedes Benz, Renault, Volvo, and many others.

Unique Auto Parts stocks a wide range of Carlube 70

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

low ash/low SAPS oil, fully synthetic and semi synthetic oils that are suitable for a large variety of passenger and commercial vehicles.

All Carlube engine oils are said to be manufactured using the highest quality refined ingredients ensuring that not only are all requirements met but, in many cases, surpass the stringent requirements set forth by car manufacturers.

They are also reportedly formulated for maximum fuel efficiency with added environmental benefits without compromising lubricant durability.

The Carlube Driveline range covers transmission fluids for both automatic and manual transmissions as well as power steering and brake fluid.

Driveline fluids are designed for exceptional wear

and tear protection and temperature control, and they also help to prevent bearing failure and offer corrosion protection.

In addition to a wide variety of oils, Unique Auto Parts also stocks selected Bluecol coolants and a number of Carlube additives designed to clean and improve efficiency and performance including fuel system cleaner (petrol and diesel), carburetor and engine cleaner.

Unique Auto Parts says each of its warehouses are fully stocked with all these great products as well as many others and a premium delivery service is available from all five locations around Australia.

To be connected to your nearest store, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au for more information.

LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

0W-16 OFFER FROM CASTROL Giving hybrids tailored protection It wasn’t that long ago that finding a hybrid vehicle on Australian roads was like finding a needle in a haystack, with manufacturer offerings few and far between.

Times however have changed, with 2020 seeing a massive 93.7 percent increase in hybrid vehicle sales based on recent data from the Australian Federal Chamber of Automotive Industries.

With hybrid vehicles becoming an increasingly popular step towards the road to fully electric vehicles, their unique operating characteristics present increasingly relevant technical challenges for lubricants.

Castrol says it is this evolution that has prompted it to develop a product specifically designed to tackle these challenges head-on: Castrol MAGNATEC Hybrid 0W-16.

An illustration of one such challenge is that engines in hybrids only run when required, often only during urban driving where they are operating for a short period of time before shutting down again.

Because of this, over the typical life of a hybrid vehicle, the number of stop-start events may be

over 500,000 – as many as 10x more than a conventional car.

Castrol explains its MAGNATEC Hybrid 0W-16 product addresses this challenge through its unique formulation containing intelligent molecules that cling to the engine like a magnet, providing an extra layer of protection for when you start-up again.

Another result of this kind of urban driving – where the hybrid engine isn’t necessarily running – is that the operating oil’s temperature can be up to 40oC cooler than in a conventional vehicle.

Under certain conditions though, like highway driving where the hybrid engine is required for a longer period, the oil can reach temperatures equivalent to that of a normal car. This requires a lubricant that can effectively protect a hybrid engine over a wide range of operating temperatures.

Blended with full-synthetic base oil, Castrol says MAGNATEC Hybrid 0W-16 delivers improved oil flow at low temperatures.

When combined with Castrol MAGNATEC’s intelligent molecules, Castrol says MAGNATEC Hybrid 0W-16 dramatically reduces engine wear

(as tested in the industry sequence IVA test) and protects even while driving when the oil temperature is low.

Carrying the latest API SP and ILSAC GF-6B specifications, Castrol MAGNATEC Hybrid 0W-16 is suitable for use in range of automotive hybrid petrol engines, including the likes of the MY20 Toyota Yaris Hybrid.

Castrol MAGNATEC Hybrid 0W-16 will be available in Australia in April 2021.

To discover the full Castrol range visit www.castrol.com.au or speak to the Technical Helpline team on 1300 557 998.

SERVICING DECARBONISED TRANSPORT Have you noticed more EVs on the roads around you?

Electric vehicle sales are experiencing a compound annual growth rate of over 70 percent in Australia.

EVUp says all manufacturers are now picking up their EV game to catch industry disruptors like Tesla and Rivian, and states it expects the rapid sales trajectory to continue.

It says this is backed by a number of surveys that have showed a slow decline in Australia in interest for buying an internal combustion engine, but a steady increase in interest in purchasing an EV. There are two types of electric vehicle: a battery electric vehicle (BEV) such as a Tesla, and a plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) which usually has a short electric range with a petrol engine back up.

Both still require servicing, and as the shift to low-emission transport continues apace, will need new products developed to suit.

Do electric vehicles require lubricants and oils?

While the days of messy oil changes might eventually be phased out, BEVs and PHEVs still require some help from lubricants, oils and coolants to manage their motion.

Plug-in hybrid vehicles still contain an internal combustion engine and still have the same servicing requirements as any similar vehicle.

Battery electric vehicles don’t require conventional engine oils and lubricants, but still need some help to run efficiently.

An EV’s electric motor can commonly reach temperatures of 90+ degrees, so require some form of cooling, however it’s the battery pack that requires extra consideration.

an EV’s gearbox and differential, although this varies depending on model.

EVUp states there is new research indicating that using the right lubricants can improve the range of some electric vehicles.

Making lubricants for EVs environmentally friendly

The efficient thermal management of an EV battery pack is also vital for drivers wishing to access public fast charging infrastructure, which operates at higher temperatures. Repeated fast charging over a long period often leads to a loss of range on the vehicle.

One of the primary reasons many people in Australia are moving to electric is to reduce the carbon footprint of their transport.

Currently, there is a small ‘green’ benefit from well to wheel in moving from ICE to EV, however in the global race by OEMs to release new and improved technology, EVUp says that benefit will continue to improve over time.

EVUp Director, Emma Sutcliffe, invites readers interested in impartial advice about the EV sector or who want to know more about providing EV charging for customers, to give her a call on 0409 040 499.

What remains similar to ICE is the need to lubricate

For more from EVUp, visit www.evup.com.au

Without a battery management system which controls cooling using air or liquid, EV battery range can decrease significantly or experience an overheating event.

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LUBRICANTS, FLUIDS & CHEMICALS

303 INTERIOR CLEANER Eliminating the need for multiple interior cleaning products With summer on our doorstep, there has never been a better time than now to get your 4WD looking the part and in tip-top condition for your next big adventure.

Eliminating the need for multiple interior cleaning products, 303 Products has combined a fabric, glass, leather, vinyl and plastic cleaner into one specially formulated spray with the launch of its new 303 Automotive Interior Cleaner.

Designed to clean up the toughest jobs on pretty much any surface you can think of, including electronics and sensitive LCD screens, 303 says getting the inside of your rig clean has never been easier.

303 Automotive Interior Cleaner is said to be gentle and safe, but still has the strength to clean away tough stains; lifting dirt from the surface when sprayed on, and wiping off residue free.

303 Products says this formula also helps repel dust and dirt, and leaves a clean natural appearance on the surface after using.

303 Products says its Automotive Interior Cleaner is safe and effective on: vinyl, plastic, rubber, leather, fabrics/upholstery, carpets, glass, and even LCD screens.

The company encourages you to “use what the professionals use, 303 Protectants and Cleaners,” stating that, “when you love something, it shows.”

It says that is why avid boaters, car enthusiasts and homeowners have turned to 303 protectants and cleaners for over 35 years.

The 3030 Automotive Interior Cleaner (Part #30588) is available now from Super Cheap Auto (RRP $19.99).

For more information, visit www.303products.com.au 72

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

MAKING YOUR WORKSHOP MORE EFFICIENT Introducing Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 Engine Oil The Valvoline team says it has been hard at work to combat the burden of workshops requiring so many different engine oils.

Valvoline has now introduced the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil exclusive to workshops.

The new engine oil is intended to rationalise workshop engine oil requirements and has been designed to service the fastest growing segment in the Australian automotive marketplace.

Catering to more than 45 percent of Australian vehicles sold since 2009 Many cars of the Australian car park are late model Japanese and Korean cars. Today these brands account for more than 45 percent of all new car sales in Australia – that is over four million petrol and diesel vehicles sold over the past 10 plus years.

Many of these vehicles can now be serviced with the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil where the vehicle specifies: • Petrol vehicles that specify SAE 5W-30 requiring API SN PLUS, SN, SM or earlier.

• Diesel vehicles that specify SAE 5W-30 requiring ACEA C2 or ACEA C3.

In addition, Valvoline Professional MultiVehicle 5W-30 engine oil contains Mid SAP’s technology. This means it is ideal for use in various Japanese and Korean diesel vehicles fitted with DPFs. Valvoline says many of these vehicles can now be serviced with the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil

where the vehicle specifies SAE 5W-30 requiring ACEA C2 or ACEA C3 or MB 229.31.

Protects against LSPI and improves fuel economy Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil is an API SN PLUS to protect against Low Speed Pre-Ignition (LSPI).

LSPI is an abnormal, uncontrolled combustion event that can occur in modern Gasoline Direct Injection (GDI) and Turbo Gasoline Direct Injection (TGDI) engines.

In some cases, this can result in catastrophic engine failure. Research suggests that LSPI most commonly occurs during rapid acceleration and in GDI and TGDI engines operating in low speed and high load driving conditions.

Valvoline says another benefit of the Valvoline Professional Multi-Vehicle 5W-30 engine oil is that it can improve fuel economy up to 1.5 percent in certain vehicles. It also reportedly protects engines from wear by up to 72 percent when compared to standard engine oils.

Helping to improve your workshop Not only does the Valvoline Professional MultiVehicle 5W-30 engine oil service the fastest growing segment in the Australian automotive marketplace, Valvoline says it can also rationalise up to five engine oils from the Valvoline range.

It says this means workshops could save time in choosing which oil to use and improve workshop efficiencies by potentially holding less stock.

Valvoline says the one engine oil could mean less oil storage space on the workshop floor, leading to greater efficiency.

For more information or to place an order, contact the Valvoline team on 1800 458 237 (Customer Service) or 1800 804 658 (Technical Hotline).

HAND TOOLS & DIAGNOSITICS

AUTEL DIAGNOSTIC HANDS FREE WINDOW TINT TESTING AutoTest launches what it calls “the most SCANNERS advanced tint tester on the market with Available from Interequip

fast, accurate results”

Interequip says Autel, a well-known name in the industry, is a fast-growing manufacturer in the world for diagnostic technology.

Interequip has been working with Autel since 2007, being the first distributor in Australia and New Zealand to market Autel’s professional scan tool series.

In selling thousands of Autel scan tools in Australia, Interequip says it has been instrumental in putting Autel on the map in our market “as the leader in diagnostic sales and technology.”

Interequip explains it also co-developed the Holden and AU Ford software, and states it is still working closely with Autel for servicing and improving diagnostic functions.

AutoTest has just announced the launch of a new light transmissibility meter, the AutoLight Magnetic.

It says the launch means a single operator can now take window tint readings hands-free, as some jurisdictions require, to take a photograph of the reading.

AutoTest says the AutoLight Magnetic improves on earlier products, easily providing an accurate reading.

AutoLight Magnetic is a hands-free light transmission meter measuring the level of light transmitted through a tinted window to determine its safety level.

AutoTest states this is lightweight and the fastest tint tester on the market, which gives accurate results with a single button operation.

It says AutoLight is an essential tool to assist garages, law enforcement agencies, testing authorities and anyone involved in fleet safety management to help ensure vehicles are compliant and safe.

The AutoLight also has a bigger brother, the AutoLight Plus.

It says when you are looking for an Autel distributor, you should “make sure that they have the expertise and experience to support your purchase.”

Interequip says Autel has a wide range of exciting new products on offer, including: • Immobilizer (ex: MaxiIM IM608Pro) • TPMS (MX sensors and TS608) • ADAS (Gen I and MA600) • Thermal camera recorder IR100 • Battery tester with BAS reset function (BT508 and BT608) • Professional diagnostic scanner combining information (MaxisysUltra) • Combined scope-scanner in one (MS919).

Autel’s next product will be joining ADAS, data diagnosis, and 3D wheel alignment in an all-inone machine, ADAS-IA-800.

Interequip says Autel’s technology and innovation will help mechanical workshops to perform deeper and high-end repairs that were limited prior due to technology.

For more information, please visit www.interequip.com.au or contact Interequip on 18000EQUIP or info@interequip.com.au 74

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

AutoTest explains that this model provides the connectivity that makes result management easy.

It connects to an Android app that can be installed on the AutoTest Workshop Pro, providing a single tool to perform brake tests and windscreen tests, keep a digital record, and take photographs as well.

Readings can be stored directly on the unit or printed on the included portable Bluetooth printer or a network printer.

AutoTest says it may be well worth the investment if you are a looking to upgrade your equipment or are looking to equip a new workshop.

AutoTest also offers a number of packages it says will suit the needs of a new workshop, such as the AutoTest Workshop Roadworthy Kit, which includes an AutoStop Maxi (the tried and tested decelerometer), the AutoLight, and the AutoTest Headlight Align.

It says you could consider the latest tablet based decelerometer, the AutoTest WorkshopPro 10, which can also be purchased as part of a kit: the AutoTest Ultimate Roadworthy Kit. The AutoTest Ultimate Roadworthy Kit also includes the AutoLight Magnetic, and the AutoTest Headlight Align.

It says if you consider upgrading your Ultimate Roadworthy Kit, it can include the AutoLight Plus Magnetic and AutoTest will also add the Android AutoLight software for free to achieve full connectivity between the AutoLight and WorkshopPro 10.

AutoTest Products is an Australian-owned, award-winning manufacturer of vehicle testing equipment. Highly sought after, it explains its products are sold in more than 50 countries by a worldwide network of distributors, and used by law enforcement agencies throughout Australia, South East Asia and Europe.

AutoTest products are portable and easy-to-use, making them ideal for regulatory authorities, service testing stations, garages and workshops.

For more information, visit www.autotest.net.au

HAND TOOLS & DIAGNOSITICS

TOOLS TO SAVE YOU TIME G & G Technics designs and manufactures innovative specialist tools G & G Technics was formed in 2003 by Glen Duffy in response to an opportunity to design and manufacture specialised automotive industry tools which enable an Automotive Technician to undertake difficult vehicle repairs quickly and efficiently.

It says the innovative and unique workshop tools were designed with the knowledge gained over 40 years of working in engineering.

G & G Technics says its quality control process ensures tools produced are of high quality, yet cost effective to end users.

Its products include: • • • • • •

Harmonic Balancer Remover Axel Bearing Press Tool Hydraulic Ball Joint Separator Commodore V6 and Multifit Puller Mini Press Series 400S2 Portable Hard Press Ford EA-EL Bottom Ball Joint Remover and Installer Pulley Remover/Installer (Power Steering and Water Pumps) Ford Diff Support Bush; Removal and Repair Tool Rose (Swivel) Joint Tool Kit Rachet Tubing Cutter

G & G Technics has been a long-time participant in the AAAA Trade Shows as well as other shows internationally including the Performance Racing Industry (PRI) Show.

tools are to use and save time, stating that the most common comment it hears are “they are the best tools ever made.”

Looking to expand the distribution of the tools into the international market, G & G Technics has now established sales networks in the USA. Currently, stock is held in a warehouse in Los Angeles and a USA based Sales Manager has been appointed, with sales continuing to grow through retail stores and online realtors.

A keen sportsman, Glen is now looking to retire to spend more time pursuing the sports he loves including running races, mountain biking and mountain climbing. As such, the G & G Technics business is for sale and interested parties should contact Mike at Baton Advisory on mike@batonadvisory.com.au

Glen explains the reactions of trade show participants is testament to how successful the

For more information about G & G Technics Tools, visit www.ggtechnics.com.au

• • • •

Protected by both Australian and International Patents, G & G Technics states the tools have become very popular and are now sold by all major automotive distributors and found in “almost all” workshops Australia wide.

SCHUMACHER SPI 25 PRO Designed to perfectly accommodate the electrical demands of vehicle diagnosis and maintenance Schumacher Electric says its Schumacher SPi 25 PRO is the ultimate professional electronic battery charger.

The SPi 25 PRO was designed by Schumacher Electric’s Italian engineers to accommodate all of the latest battery and vehicle maintenance requirements for the European markets, and as such, the company says it is the most advanced battery charger it has ever produced.

The electrical load present in modern vehicles has increased significantly in the last ten years. On board computers are constantly analysing signals from hundreds of sensors and then immediately transmitting commands back to those systems.

All of this activity places a significant load on vehicle batteries. As such, good battery maintenance is more important than ever.

When technicians diagnose and repair the vehicle’s electrical components, like ADAS, they are required to operate all of those systems to evaluate errors and maintenance requirements.

This process can place a significant load on the vehicle’s battery. We believe every workshop

should be equipped with a modern, well-designed battery charger with the correct functionality to accommodate the electrical loads seen during vehicle diagnosis and maintenance.

The SPI 25 Pro is a battery charger Schumacher Electric has designed specifically for the application.

It says the Italian input is noticeable in the sharp modern case design. The backlit LCD display clearly shows the charge status and selected settings and the charger is able to be wall mounted via four screw bosses or it can be temporarily mounted by a bracket that can also double as a cable reel.

With the nine-stage charge algorithm, reverse polarity and surge protection, the SPi 25 PRO is a safe, efficient and very reliable workshop battery charger.

With the added benefit of battery chemistry selection (including Lithium), selectable voltage (12v or 24V) and selectable amperage (5, 12.5, 25 amps), Schumacher Electric says this charger is a great choice for any workshop that sees a variety of vehicle and battery types.

It says the charger’s versatility is very evident when you consider the additional features over and above normal charging functions, such as Memory Supply, Power Supply, Showroom Mode, ADAS Supply and Battery Recovery Mode.

Schumacher Electric says it thinks the SPi 25 Pro is the most advanced workshop battery charger available in Australia today.

The SPI 25 Pro is available across Australia via a reseller network.

To be advised of the best reseller for your needs, please contact Chris Everard via email at chrise@schumacherelectric.com Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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HAND TOOLS & DIAGNOSITICS

NEW LITHIUM ION THE RIGHT TOOL FOR THE JOB is no question that having ‘the right SOLDERING IRON There tool for the job’ can make any task easier From Narva Narva has added a second soldering iron to its range of electrical accessories with a compact fast heating cordless lithium ion powered unit which comes in a comprehensive kit.

Joining the butane gas powered soldering iron (P/No. 56390BL) is the new cordless, rechargeable lithium ion powered soldering iron that can heat itself ready-to-solder in just 10 seconds.

More than just a soldering iron, the new Narva kit (P/No. 56394) comes with additional interchangeable tips to suit a variety of jobs, including chisel, cone and hot knife for cutting (for example, rope) and an integrated LED light to illuminate the working area to ensure adequate visibility and accurate soldering.

Doubling as a visual check that the iron is hot, the LED only illuminates once the button is pressed and heating commences.

Providing a runtime of 40 minutes, the lithium ion battery is fully charged in 3.5 hours using the included USB to Micro-USB cable.

The 10 second heating time ensures quick, convenient use of the iron, with a maximum temperature of 600°C. For safety, the soldering iron features overcharging, over-discharging plus short circuit and electrostatic discharge protections.

Also included in the kit is a safety cap and idle stand to ensure user safety during heat up, use and cool down. Replacement tips are also available to purchase as a kit (P/No. 56395-E).

The kit comes contained in a convenient and durable case ideal for professionals and is available from leading automotive and transport retailers at a recommended retail price of approximately $195.00.

For more information, visit www.narva.com.au 76

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

Unique Auto Parts says you can save yourself time, effort and frustration while ensuring you are using tools specifically designed for the task at hand thanks to its specialty line of tools which have been designed especially for European vehicles.

Back in the 90s Unique Auto Parts first began trading as a mechanical workshop before changing its focus to the supply of quality parts for Mercedes Benz, BMW, Mini, Audi, Volkswagen, Seat, Skoda, Peugeot, Renault, Citroen, Porsche, Volvo, Alfa Romeo, Fiat and Range Rover.

It says these humble beginnings have given the business a unique understanding of what mechanics need and how important having and using the correct tool really is.

Armed with this knowledge, Unique Auto Parts representatives have reportedly searched the globe and sourced a range of tools specifically designed for use on European vehicles.

If you are after a tool to help you with a general service, then Unique Auto Parts says it has you covered with oil filter removal tools, alternator pulley removal tools and spark plug sockets.

If you are in need of something a bit more

specific, there is a wide variety of timing tools ranging from camshaft locking, adjustment and alignment tools, timing tool kits, crankshaft pulley holders and guide pin pullers currently available.

Also in stock are tools for all your suspension and engine needs, including but not limited to spring compressor tools, ball joint socket and remover tools, rear axle bush and socket tools, injector nozzle pullers, fan wrenches and more.

There are also several other useful tools available such as airbag removal tools, dashboard tool kits, automatic transmission dipsticks and drive multispline bit socket sets.

Unique Auto Parts explains it has five fully stocked branches around Australia and a premium delivery service.

To be connected to your nearest store, call 1300 864 864 or visit www.uniqueautoparts.com.au

GEARWRENCH BOLT BITER LAUNCHED The release of the new extraction sockets has reportedly been highly anticipated Pro tool users do not like to be slowed down by anything, and that goes especially for old or worn fasteners.

Difficulty removing weathered, rounded, or damaged fasteners can keep mechanics from moving on to the next phase of a job, costing time and money.

GearWrench says its new Bolt Biter Extraction Sockets provide an uncommonly simple solution to the problem of stubborn fasteners.

“Tool users will tell you the thing they can’t stand the most is losing time when a tool can’t get the job done,” GearWrench Product Manager, Steven Tokouzis, said.

“If time lost is money lost, then time saved is money in your pocket, and that’s what the Bolt Biter Extraction Sockets are designed to do better than any other on the market.

“These sockets address the biggest needs out there while providing a level of durability not typically associated with extraction tools.”

GearWrench says the Bolt Biter’s superior design yields five major benefits as follows:

• The socket slides easily onto the rounded fastener with no hammering needed.

• “Minus-size” sockets designed to fit onto fasteners worn down past their original size.

• Once the fastener is removed, it disengages easily from the socket.

• The fastener is not destroyed during the process and can be re-installed, especially important if the fastener is a non-standard part.

• Bolt Biter Extraction Sockets have up to ten times the useable life of cutting-type extraction sockets, which quickly become dull and unusable.

Available in 8-, 15- or 28-piece sets, Bolt Biter Extraction Sockets can be used with an impact gun, ratchet, wrench, or pliers.

For more information, go to www.gearwrench.com.au

HAND TOOLS & DIAGNOSITICS

SCAN TOOL DIAGNOSTICS FOR DIESELS Diesel Help Australia is offering a range of webinars on this topic Diesel Help Australia, while well known for its capabilities teaching technicians how to diagnose common rail diesel vehicles without a scan tool, is now also offering training webinars on how to use the diagnostic tools with diesel vehicles.

“While we continue to teach (diagnosing CRDs without scan tools) in our online Ultimate Common rail diesel diagnostics training (UCRD) and in over the phone consultations, late last year we began running webinars including using the scan tool when working with diesels,” Diesel Help Australia Director, Clinton Brett, said.

“There are currently four webinars, each an hour long, which are being offered free of charge to Diesel Help members and their staff. The four webinars cover Common Diesel Faults; DPFs diagnosis and testing; Diesel scan tool familiarisation; and Testing injectors and compression using the scan tool.

“New subjects will be released throughout the year, including diagnosing earlier electronic and mechanical diesel systems.”

Diesel Help Australia says that today, the scan tool is a requirement for every workshop. The technician must adapt new components after replacement, update software, reset and readapt systems immediately after a service; with some

vehicle services unable to be completed without this.

“Diagnosing with a scan tool on a diesel requires more than just looking at graphs and data. I have seen many technicians make the mistake thinking a common rail diesel is the same as an EFI petrol engine. They are not! A petrol uses a spark to ignite air and fuel to create combustion, a diesel engine only uses the air and fuel to create combustion as explained in our UCRD online training,” Clinton said.

“The data on a diesel can be completely opposite to what you see on petrol and often the comment is made “but this defeats all theories of an engine!” and I say, “only if you are stuck with petrol on your mind!”

“Using the scan to test injectors and compression becomes a valuable tool. Unfortunately, not all manufacturers read or use the same data.

Therefore, viewing both the Diesel Scan Tools Familiarisation and Testing injectors and compression using the scan tool webinars is beneficial to gain an overall understanding.

“The injector feedback data ‘buddy system’ is a comprehensive part of Testing injectors and compression. This course demonstrates diagnostic strategies for injector and compression issues

on Toyota Hilux, Landcruiser V8, Prado, Hiace, Holden Colorado, Isuzu D-max, Hino truck, Isuzu truck and Ford Ranger/Mazda BT50.

“The Diesel Scan Tool Familiarisation webinar demonstrates how to utilise rail pressure readings as a quick reference to determine if you are going to carry out further testing of the rail, pump or injectors. The scan tool can assist diagnosing turbo and EGR faults.

“In the Common Diesel Faults webinar, there are several scan tool techniques to support my mechanical diagnosis of a Ford Ranger pump failure and VW suction control valve failure.

“The DPF webinar incudes several uses of the scan tool including a simple reset to remove a common Mitsubishi DPF related issue, without replacing the DPF.” Diesel Help Australia is offering AAAA members discount coupons to its webinars and also complimentary access to its DPF webinar.

Diesel Help Australia members can view the webinars at www.dieselhelp.com.au/webinars

NEW FROM SHINN FU AUSTRALIA A range of new products are available Shinn Fu Australia has released a number of new products to the Australian market.

MichaelPro Combination Dolphin Spanners The MP001014 is an eight-piece set of SAE Combination Dolphin Spanners offering an innovative handle design, inspired by dolphins, where the ring head (tail) is perpendicular to the open-end (head).

These spanners are made from high quality Chrome Vanadium Steel (CR-V) to withstand high torque and heavy-duty work and meet the ANSI standard.

MichaelPro Quick-Release LED Socket Wrench The MP001037 is an innovative Quick-Release Ratchet Socket Wrench with a built-in Waterproof LED located in the 3/8” drive – simply hold the drive and turn the blue knob to turn on and off the LED. This ratchet wrench is made from Premium Chrome Vanadium Steel (CR-V) for long lasting durability with a 72 teeth gear to provide a five-degree ratcheting arc, allowing turns in tight spaces.

MichaelPro Two-Way T-Handle Speed Wrench The MP009015 is a set of T-Handle Speed Wrenches with 1/4” and 3/8” drives. Each T-Handle has a drive at the shaft and handle, allowing two modes of operation (high torque or fast spinning). These T-Handle wrenches are made from heat-treated hardened Chrome Vanadium Steel (CR-V) for increased strength and durability.

Handles are made from anti-slip rubber with the speed spinning grip made from aluminium.

MichaelPro Hooded Magnetic Tool Trays The MP009014 is a set of two premium magnetic trays each equipped with a Patented Retractable hood and Wave Patterned Base. These tool trays are made from Stainless Steel and are attached with strong 1000-1500 Gauss magnets that are capable of holding up to 0.45kg.

OmegaLift 6350kg High Reach Stand with SpringLoaded Casters Also now available from Shinn Fu Australia is the OmegaLift 33070A High Reach Stand. The stand is made for professional workshops and

offers quality-of-life features and exceptional build quality for added durability. This High Reach Stand comes equipped with spring-loaded caster wheels that enables free movement when unloaded, allowing great mobility for positioning under vehicle hoists. High Reach supplementary stands prevent vehicles from tipping and rocking. A minimum of four is required for a normal vehicle, with two stands needed for each additional axle assembly. The stand can also provide partial support for vehicle components.

For more information, visit www.shinnfu.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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TRADE TALK

CUSTOMER FOCUS KEY TO RETAIL SUCCESS

Having joined BAPCOR Retail as Executive General Manager - Retail only 18 months ago, Tim Cockayne is new to the Automotive Industry. However, his extensive retail experience is already paying dividends for the suite of brands under his watch Melbourne born and bred, Tim grew up in Keysborough near Noble Park, sharing the house with four siblings, which undoubtedly helped him develop his highly competitive nature.

“When you’re sharing a three-bedroom house with four other kids, all vying for attention, you learn to be competitive pretty quickly,” Tim said.

“That competitive nature has stayed with me for my entire life and has had a big impact on my career path.”

Tim’s role as Executive General Manager of Retail at BAPCOR Retail encompasses an interesting mix of retail and service businesses, including Autobarn, Autopro, Sprint, Midas, and ABS. But before we jump head-first into his current job, it would be remiss to gloss over what is certainly an exciting and varied career and one that is different from many in the automotive aftermarket.

“As soon as I turned 18, I left school and just thought that I wanted to be a chef for some reason. Looking back, I don’t even know why as I don’t even enjoy food that much,” Tim explained.

“But my skills in the kitchen helped me travel all around Australia. I packed up my knives, jumped in the car and lived in weird and wonderful places like Norseman, which is right at the end of the Nullarbor, a town of 2000 people – I lived there and played a whole footy season there and learnt a lot about life.”

Tim’s time in the kitchen did not last long, and at the tender age of 21, he found his true passion, retail. After pounding the pavement as a door-to-

door salesperson, Tim landed on his feet when he joined a large jewellery company.

“I scored a role as an Assistant Category Manager and built my way up through the business,” Tim described.

“It was here that I learnt the value of merchandising, but when I moved into a marketing role, I just fell in love with it, and I’ve never left retail since. I just love retail. It’s the thing that drives me nonstop every single day.”

Tim went from a kid who was learning how to cook to travelling to Hong Kong when he was just 22 years old, purchasing and buying products for the jewellery company – certainly, a massive change from living in a small town in outback Australia.

Having launched his career in retailing, Tim was ready for a new challenge.

“I never wanted to be compartmentalised. I never wanted to be known as just a category manager, just a buyer, a jewellery retailer, or a specialty shop store retailer,” Tim explained.

By the time Tim decided it was time to move out of jewellery retailing, he had ticked many boxes from merchandising to marketing and operations to IT. “I’d pretty much covered every spectrum of the jewellery business, so I went hunting for a new challenge,” said Tim. That hunt for new experiences, combined with his healthy appetite for competition, saw Tim take on a position as Chief Executive Officer of

Tim Cockayne a large consumer electronics business before moving into the tool industry, where he enjoyed six and a half years as the Chief Executive Officer of Total Tools.

“When I joined Total Tools, it was just a small business losing money, so I knew I had a big job ahead,” Tim explained.

“But during my time there, we grew it into a business turning over 500 million and positing it as the premier destination for trade professionals.”

Following his successful tenure at Total Tools, Tim jumped into his first role in the automotive aftermarket, signing on at BAPCOR Retail.

“I know that many people who work in the automotive aftermarket started their career in the industry and have worked in it their whole life,” Tim commented.

“But that didn’t concern me at all. In my mind, the product really is secondary.”

Tim believes that success in any retail environment is actually about a customer rather than a product.

“It’s about understanding the customer, the customer journey, and identifying the different types of customers you need to attract to make any retail business a success,” Tim explained.

“It’s critical to understand where you want to target, who you want to focus on, and how you connect with them. That’s the key to building a robust and profitable retail business.”

Of course, managing five retail entities for the group has its challenges.

“To start with, you have different customer bases on which to focus. There are some complexities, but it’s probably less difficult than people think,” said Tim.

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TRADE TALK right. We get things wrong all the time. It’s how we adapt the actions we take, and how we then move to the next thing that drives the success for individuals and businesses alike.”

Tim also places a significant value on accurate and relevant market research and has invested heavily in this area.

“I’m a big believer in market research,” Tim said. “You’re hearing from your customer, and you don’t have to like what you hear, but you’ve got to listen to what you hear.”

Having just reviewed the findings after a research project that included responses from more than 1000 people just before we caught up with him, Tim was forthcoming with some great insights.

“We don’t just interview our existing customers.

We also get insights from people that aren’t our customers, people that shop with our competitors, people that hate our competitors, people that hate us, and everyone in between,” Tim explained.

“It’s about time allocation and making sure that you have the right support structure in place and making sure that you don’t just have an ugly sister, that one business that gets only five percent of your time.”

it’s critical to make sure that they actually don’t play in the same area exactly,” said Tim.

On the plus side, Tim believes there are some serious advantages to managing five businesses that all operate in a similar market segment.

Tim also highlighted just how critical it is to have a different strategy for each business to avoid them going head-to-head and admits that he has made a few mistakes over the journey.

“It enables you to work out a target customer base for each business, allowing them to play in some free air,” Tim explained.

Much of the initial work Tim focused on when he joined BAPCOR Retail was focused on clearing that air so that each business had room to breathe and grow.

“If you look at Autobarn and Autopro and Sprint,

“In fact, there’s plenty of space, so managing multiple brands in the same industry does have benefits.”

“I’m going to be really honest here and say that I get things wrong often,” Tim revealed.

“I get things wrong often because I have a policy that I need and expect my people to be extremely decisive and make decisions for themselves.

“I’m okay if they get it wrong as long as they have a go. I do not believe that I get everything

“This level of detail provides so many insights, what they like about you, what don’t they like about you, what they like about your competitor that they don’t see you stocking.

“It’s amazing just how much these results help drive the strategy for each individual business.”

Autobarn is one of the businesses that has benefited from the extensive retail experience Tim brings to the group.

“Anyone who knows Autobarn understands that it basically started out as a cooperative,” said Tim. “It was a group of members who came together to improve their buying power and share knowledge to the groups’ mutual benefit.”

Over time, Autobarn eventually moved to a franchise model, but like many cooperative businesses that become franchises, the company continued to act like a cooperative.

“Basically, there was a lack of governance, and members continued to do their own thing,” Tim explained.

“The retail experience just lacked a bit of consistency, but over the last 18 months, we’ve started to make significant changes.

“We launched a new livery format that’s cutting edge and well ahead of our competitors. It is something that will last the next ten years.

“We’re increasing our store size and expanding our range, and there is a renewed focus on consistency and discipline.”

From the time we spent with Tim, there is little doubt that he will leave a marked impression at BAPCOR Retail, considering the already impressive outcomes he has delivered in his first 18 months with the business.

Above, left and at top: The recently refurbished Bayswater, Victoria Autobarn store.

To find out more about BAPCOR Retail, visit www.bapcor.com.au Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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BUSINESS SERVICES

SOLERA AUTODATA YOUR PERFECT WORKSHOP PARTNER GoPay offers specialised service to the LAUNCHES automotive industry SERVICE ADVISOR The new offering aims to transform the workshop front-of-house experience

Autodata, which says it is the leading provider of technical information for automotive professionals, has launched a new Service Advisor module.

Service Advisor is said to be a powerful tool intended to support front-of-house staff quoting and estimating for customers.

After selecting the vehicle by model or licence plate number in the normal way, the user can bring up a one-page view of all replacement intervals and service times. It includes the key parts for service in plain language and presents a fantastic opportunity to illustrate to the customer upcoming work which will be needed and spot and upsell additional services.

Autodata says Service Advisor “draws on Autodata’s world-beating service schedule coverage – with 99.9 percent of the most serviced makes and models already available in Service Advisor.”

Clicking or tapping on a specific service interval brings up model-specific options where appropriate which may factor into the quote.

Since inception in 2018, GoPay says it has cemented itself as “the only specialist automotive buy now, pay later service in Australia.”

GoPay explains that it is its focus on the automotive market and a system that enables a workshop to process a payment simply and quickly without any prior planning that makes GoPay the perfect workshop partner.

Having helped thousands of customers get their car looked after from engines, to tow bars, to a simple service, GoPay says the nature of its service means that the customer can spread their cost over a longer term for no extra cost.

GoPay says it is this transactional method that makes customer acceptance rates very high.

It also states that it offers very competitive commission rates which include all merchant fees that are normally charged when using an EFTPOS machine.

With an advanced contactless payment option, a customer can pay their bill before they arrive to pick up their vehicle – meaning less contact and potential down time for any business that enables their customers to use GoPay. GoPay is currently available in 1,500 workshops around Australia.

With this number reportedly growing every week, GoPay says it is “the automotive payment specialist in Australia run by people who understand and are connected to the industry.”

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

ATE PLATINUM BRAKE CENTRES LAUNCH ACROSS AUSTRALIA 32 Platinum outlets will service Australian car owners

Autodata explains that the tool has been in betatest with a limited selection of users, receiving extremely positive feedback, and has now seen a general roll-out. It says it represents the next evolution and will ultimately replace the Service Summary module.

Service Advisor will appear as an option for users of both the Autodata Service and Maintenance and Diagnostic and Repair packages for cars and vans, and is available across all workshop application languages.

A Service Advisor API has also been made available to customers using Autodata technical data in their own solutions.

As with all new Autodata modules, Service Advisor has been optimised across both desktop and touchscreen devices, making it easy to present to the customer on a phone or tablet.

For more information on Autodata’s new Service Advisor or to try it today, visit www.autodata-group.com or call +44 (0)330 053899.

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ATE Brakes is making its products more readily available via its newest sales and marketing initiative: ATE Platinum Brake Centres.

Not a conventional retail chain, the ATE Platinum Brake Centre name is provided to workshops – of which there are 32 nationally – that train their technicians to ATE quality standards and exclusively stock and fit ATE products for their customers.

There are nine in Victoria, eight in both New South Wales and Queensland, four in Western Australia, two in South Australia and one in Canberra.

Renowned for its quality range of brake parts, accessories and lubricants, ATE says it has been one of the automotive industry’s brakes leaders for well over 100 years, and is at the forefront of braking technology – which it says is why many of its products are factory-fitted by some of the biggest original equipment manufacturers (OEMs).

Distributed exclusively in Australia by hsy Autoparts – which says it is Australia’s leading distributor and supplier of new European OEM, OES and quality aftermarket parts to independent workshops – ATE Platinum Brake Centres are a

step up from the standard ATE Brake Centre and have reportedly been recognised for first class service, product understanding and fitment excellence.

“An ATE Platinum Brake Centre is elevated above the standard ATE Brake Centre,” hsy national sales and marketing manager, Nick Redmond, said.

“For a workshop to qualify as an ATE Platinum Brake Centre, not only does it need to exclusively supply and fit ATE product, but it has to present professionally and have technicians regularly involved in ATE specialty training.”

Hsy has invested in a comprehensive marketing campaign to create brand awareness for ATE Platinum Brake Centres, directing consumers to their nearest workshop via its dedicated website.

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

INDUSTRY AWARENESS

WARRANTIES: WHO IS RESPONSIBLE? It is inevitable in our line of work as business owners and technicians that things go wrong, do not go to plan or you just have bad days, says Highfields Mechanical’s Craig Baills Probable causes are the Full Moon and its irrational effects on nature (joking, or am I), pressures of business, freight companies that have no respect for time frames, incorrect part supplies, access to information or rework due to part failure, or we just stuffed up.

These issues can have a difficult effect on our operations, particularly when we as repairers are focused on delivering the best possible service and outcomes to our customers.

I want to focus on part failure and warranties related to such failures – we have all been there.

We have all had experiences where a replaced component has failed within the part manufacturer’s warranty period so we have removed and replaced it, carried out our own assessment, sent it back to the supplier for a warranty claim if it’s not due to our workmanship, finished the job, apologised profusely to the customer and with no charge to them (this would only start an argument and give us bad reviews) and possibly even given a goodwill incentive for them to come back.

This all sounds very familiar, right?

Three weeks later we receive a phone call from the supplier explaining that the warranty on the part that we sent back for a claim has been denied or they will only cover the part and not the labour.

Their reasons can include statements the issue was due to poor fitment, misalignment, abuse, ‘this’ wasn’t checked, ‘that’ wasn’t checked or any number of what seem to be excuses from the book of 101 reasons to deny a warranty claim from the part manufacturer.

Meanwhile, our business is out of pocket as we have protected our brand and the supplier’s brand at our own cost and are left wearing the cost of the repair for what we are certain was no fault of our own.

Occasionally, generosity from the manufacturer will take us by surprise and they will pay for the part and not the labour. This is a very humble gesture when a $65.00 component takes six to eight hours to replace.

As my sarcasm begins to ooze, the reality is, most workshops will offer a 12mth/20000km warranty on service and repairs to the customer’s vehicle that covers parts and labour. If we did not do this, our customers would have very little faith in our abilities and repairs.

I believe it is high time that as a minimum standard, the suppliers offer the same and pressure is put back on the manufacturers to back this.

This is a major pain point in our industry as repairers, and seriously grinds my gears. I have firsthand experience with failed warranty claims due to excuses from the manufacturer.

There are brands that suppliers sell that I will boycott due to very poor and expensive warranty experiences that have been denied because of any number of excuses, when the claim was valid.

Oil seals, radiators, timing belt kits, tyres and brakes have all been denied, costing our business with no compensation from the supplier or the part manufacturer.

Suppliers and part manufacturers put a lot of faith in our abilities to correctly install and do the job right, as do the business owners and their techs that install the parts.

As a tech, we hate doing the job twice, we hate the confrontation with the customer, and we have pride in our work.

Having a failure is a kick in the guts, particularly if it is our own fault due to workmanship, but when it comes to a component failure it is frustrating.

We take a lot of pride in what we do and when

we fit a component, it is normally because we endorse that component or have faith in the manufacturer to back us should it fail.

Our aftermarket repair and parts supply industry has grown rapidly in the past 10 years. From a technology, quality and expectation point of view, we need to be on our game at all levels.

If parts manufacturers cannot supply quality components, backed by a suitable parts and labour warranty, go and supply another industry.

As a repairer and small business, we cannot afford to carry manufacturers that do not provide a suitable warranty for their products.

The need to negate any excuse for a vehicle manufacturer, or a customer for that matter, to prove or show incompetence in the aftermarket repair industry and keep us at arm’s length from their information and ability to service and maintain their vehicles is now greater than ever.

If we cannot offer quality products and service that have the full backing from the whole supply chain from manufacture to fitment, then we need to take a good hard look at why we are in this industry.

There are many in this trade that are serious about right to repair, mandatory data sharing and delivering a service that exceeds that of the manufacturers and dealers. Let us all step up and prove that as manufacturers, suppliers and repairers, we are 100 percent confident that the products and services we sell stand the test of time.

In the meantime, to ensure you are as prepared as possible in the case of a warranty issue, I recommend that you proactively discuss with your suppliers what their terms, conditions and processes are in terms of warranty claims, and if those aren’t acceptable to you, find another supplier before you have a problem. You may also wish to speak to Industry Legal Group, which is available to supply advice to AAAA members.

Here’s to the future, Craig Baills Highfields Mechanical Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

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CONSUMER LAW

FAIR TRADING NSW: NEW DISCLOSURE OBLIGATIONS Important changes to the Fair Trading Act 1987 (NSW) (Act) aimed at improving transparency have come into effect for businesses providing goods or services to consumers in New South Wales (NSW) The Act requires that before a business provides goods or services to a consumer the business must take reasonable steps to ensure the consumer is aware of the substance and effect of any term or condition relating to the provision of the goods or services that may substantially prejudice the interests of the consumer.

Without limiting the kinds of terms and conditions that may be captured, the Act lists the following as terms and conditions that may be substantially prejudicial, terms that: • exclude the liability of the business; • provides that the consumer is liable for damage to goods that are delivered; • permits the business to provide data about the consumer, or provided by the consumer, to a third party in a form that enables the third party to identify the consumer; • requires the consumer to pay an exit fee, a balloon payment or other similar payment.

The Act also requires an intermediary who receives a financial incentive (for example, referral fees or commissions), to take reasonable steps to ensure the consumer who will be supplied with the goods or services in relation to the financial incentive is aware of the existence of the arrangement.

When does the change take effect and who must comply?

The changes came into effect from 1 July 2020 but due to a six-month grace period are enforceable from 1 January 2021.

The Act applies to businesses carrying on a business in NSW or incorporated or registered under a law of NSW and/or businesses delivering goods or providing services to a person ordinarily living in NSW or a person who is otherwise connected with NSW (meaning that if a business outside of NSW delivers goods or provides services to a person ordinarily living in NSW, then this Act must be complied with).

What can a business do to comply?

Identify existing terms and conditions that may substantially prejudice the interests of the consumer (examples provided in the Act include terms that exclude the liability of the business, terms that provides that the consumer is liable for damage to goods that are delivered, terms that permit the business to provide consumer data to a third party that enables them to identify the consumer, or terms that require the consumer to pay an exit fee, balloon payment or similar) and take reasonable steps to ensure that consumers are aware of the substance and effect of any such term or condition before the business supplies the goods or services.

NSW Fair Trading provides examples of what reasonable steps can be taken including the use of a plain English short summary on the front page of a contract, having the information appear on screen in a scrollable text box (online), providing information in short portions at appropriate points, or using illustrations to explain relevant information. Further, the best way to know whether reasonable steps have been taken is to check directly with the consumer to confirm (whether verbally, by initialing a contract, or by checking a box on a web-form for example) they are aware and understand the substance and effect of the key terms and conditions or the existence of any commission or referral arrangement.

Who is a consumer?

Consumer is defined in the Act to have the same meaning as the Australian Consumer Law (ACL). A person or business will be a consumer if they meet the ACL definition of consumer, for example, subject to any limitations, the cost of the good or service is the same or less than the threshold monetary amount (currently $40,000 and increasing to $100,000 on 1 July 2021), or if the good or service exceeds the monetary threshold, that the good or service is of a type ordinarily acquired for personal, domestic, or household use or consumption. Further information on changes to the ACL definition of consumer and a review of when a person or business will be a consumer will be provided in an upcoming article.

What are the penalties?

If the new requirements are not complied with a court may impose a penalty not exceeding $110,000 for a business and not exceeding 82

Australian Automotive Aftermarket Magazine February 2021

$22,000 for an individual. NSW Fair Trading may issue a penalty notice in the amount of $1,100 for a business and $550 for an individual.

Takeaways The key takeaways are: • businesses must take reasonable steps to ensure the consumer is aware of the substance and effect of terms and conditions that are substantially prejudicial to the consumer’s interests before they purchase goods or services; • an intermediary receiving a financial incentive must take reasonable steps to disclose the financial incentive before the consumer receives the goods or services.

• the requirements are enforceable from 1 January 2021; • the requirements apply to businesses in NSW and/or businesses providing goods or services to persons living in, or otherwise connected with, NSW; • businesses should review terms and conditions, take reasonable steps to ensure the consumer is aware of the substance and effect of terms and conditions that are substantially prejudicial to the consumer’s interests before they purchase goods or services or amend substantially prejudicial terms and conditions.

This document is intended for general information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice. Please contact Industry Legal Group if you require legal advice.

AAAA Member Benefits Industry Legal Group provides advice to members on commercial law matters.

If you have any questions relating to the above information, please contact Industry Legal Group on 1300 369 703 or aaaa@industrylegalgroup.com.au.

HR

FAIR WORK ACT REFORMS In December 2020, the Federal Government introduced the Fair Work Act (Supporting Australia’s Jobs and Economic Recovery) Bill 2020 (Bill) into Parliament which, if passed, will amend the Fair Work Act 2009 (Cth) (FW Act) and related legislation The Bill is not yet law and there will be further consultation, submissions made, and amendments considered before the Bill is passed into law. This article will focus on how the Bill proposes to provide certainty in relation to ‘casual employees’ and briefly summarise other key matters addressed in the Bill.

CASUAL EMPLOYEES Definition of ‘casual employee’ The term ‘casual employee’ is not currently defined in the FW Act. The Bill proposes to define a person as a ‘casual employee’ if: • An offer of employment made by the employer to the person is made on the basis that the employer makes no firm advance commitment to continuing and indefinite work according to an agreed pattern of work for the person; and • The person accepts the offer on that basis; and • The person is an employee as a result of that acceptance.

According to the Bill: • In determining whether, at the time the offer is made, the employer makes no firm advance commitment to continuing and indefinite work according to an agreed pattern of work for the person, regard must be had only to the following considerations: o whether the employer can elect to offer work and whether the person can elect to accept or reject work; o whether the person will work only as required; o whether the employment is described as casual employment; o whether the person will be entitled to a casual loading or a specific rate of pay for casual employees.

• A regular pattern of hours does not of itself indicate a firm advance commitment to continuing and indefinite work according to an agreed pattern of work.

• The question of whether a person is a casual employee is to be assessed on the basis of the offer of employment and the acceptance, not on the basis of any subsequent conduct of either party.

• A person who commences employment as a result of acceptance of an offer of casual employment remains a casual employee until: o the employee’s employment is converted to permanent employment; or o the employee accepts an alternative offer

of employment (other than as a casual employee) by the employer and commences work on that basis.

Casual conversion In addition to existing casual conversion clauses in some Awards, the Bill proposes to introduce a statutory obligation for employers to offer casual employees the ability to covert to permanent employment in certain circumstances.

for a period of two years in identified Awards (including the VRSR Award).

Casual loading offset

ENTERPRISE AGREEMENTS

In the event an employee is misclassified as a casual and makes a claim for relevant entitlements (for example, paid annual and other leave, payments for public holidays, notice in lieu of termination and redundancy pay), the Bill requires a court to reduce the amount payable to the employee for the relevant entitlements by an amount equal to the casual loading amount.

This aims to address concerns with the WorkPac v Skene [2018] FCAFC 131 and WorkPac v Rossato [2020] FAFC 83 (Rossato) decisions and the Fair Work Amendment (Casual Loading Offset) Regulations 2018 (Cth) which failed to prevent ‘double dipping’ in Rossato.

The Bill aims to streamline and improve the agreement making and approval process, enable franchisees to opt-in to a current single-enterprise agreement that covers a larger group of employers that operate under the franchise and allow the nominal life of greenfields agreements made in relation to the construction of a major project to be extended.

Casual Employment Information Statement The Bill also requires the Fair Work Ombudsman to publish and employers to provide to their casual employees a Casual Employment Information Statement.

MODERN AWARDS Additional hours for part time employees The Bill proposes to introduce simplified additional hours agreements for part time employees in identified Awards which includes the Vehicle Repair, Services and Retail Award 2020 (VRSR Award). This will enable employers and parttime employees who already work at least 16 hours per week to agree in writing to additional hours of work, paid at ordinary rates (subject to limitations including where hours worked exceed the maximum weekly or daily hours and attract overtime rates). Such an agreement can be terminated by either party giving seven days’ written notice or at a time agreed in writing.

However, overtime will continue to be payable where the hours worked fall outside of the spread of hours or are more than the maximum number of hours specified in the relevant Award.

Flexible work directions The Bill also proposes to extend flexible work directions concerning duties and location of work

COMPLIANCE AND ENFORCEMENT The Bill introduces a new criminal offence for dishonest and systematic wage underpayments and increases the value and scope of civil penalties and orders that can be imposed for non-compliance. The small claims cap will be increased from $20,000 to $50,000 and such matters can be referred to the Fair Work Commission (FWC) for conciliation and consent arbitration. Employers will also be prohibited from advertising employment with pay rates below minimum wage.

FAIR WORK COMMISSION The Bill includes measures to support more efficient FWC processes, including to enable the FWC to deal more effectively with applications that are frivolous, vexatious, misconceived or lacking in substance, or have no reasonable prospects of success. The above reforms are not an exhaustive list. For more information on the reforms, contact Employer Assist for advice.

AAAA Member Benefits Employer Assist can provide advice to members on employment law matters. If you require assistance, we encourage you to contact Employer Assist on 1300 735 306 or at aaaa@employerassist.com.au This article is intended for information purposes only and should not be regarded as legal advice.

Please contact Employer Assist for advice.

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4WD

NEW PRODUCT LINES FOR 2021 HSP has begun the new year with not one but two new product lines HSP has wasted no time in getting some quality Australian made products to market for both the all-new Mazda BT50 and Jeep Gladiator.

“Due to the bulk of our engineering, manufacturing, testing and prototyping being in Australia, we were in a really good position to hit the ground running when it came to the Mazda BT50 and Jeep Gladiator,” HSP Sales Director, Massih Aimaq, said.

Some of the Mazda items were released late December 2020.

“It was a crazy rush to get so many vehicles out before Christmas, however we managed to get the product ready and onto vehicles just in time for the break,” HSP Operations Director, Omer Dost, said.

“It was fantastic seeing all of our customers posting up images of their brand-new cars and our products while traveling around Australia.”

The products that HSP will introduce are: • HSP Roll R Cover (Mazda BT50 and Jeep Gladiator): HSP says this is the only Australian manufactured roll top. It has the ability to retain sports bars and add ladder racks, cross

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bars and even platforms. The unit is also a world first in that you can completely control the roll top via a smart phone application or voice command.

HSP Premium Lid: (Mazda BT50): “Australia’s favourite hard tonneau” with advanced features such as marine carpet interior, central locking, LED light, second to none water drainage and quick release hinges.

HSP Silverback Lid: (Mazda BT50 and Jeep Gladiator): A fantastic entry level hard cover option. The Silverback is a multipurpose cover offering outstanding security, visual aesthetics, load carrying capability at a cost-effective price.

HSP Load slide: (Mazda BT50 and Jeep Gladiator): A purpose-built retractable bed slide offering a 75 percent extension and 250kg weight rating. With an entirely custom cut platform, contouring to the vehicle and designed to give better access and management of your cargo.

HSP Tail Lock: (Mazda BT50): The plug and play, no drilling unit locks and unlocks your

tailgate via your factory remote and HSP says it is trusted by multiple vehicle manufacturers as their supplier branded accessory.

• HSP Tail Assist: (Mazda BT50): The advanced HSP Tail Assist works via a twin strut system which effortlessly dampens the drop of the tailgate and reduces weight while inclining.

In addition to the above products being released, HSP says you can get real time updates via the HSP Instagram page which takes you behind the scenes and shows manufacturing, design, and prototyping.

For more information on HSP or to become a distributor, please visit www.hsputelids.com or contact info@ hsputelids.com

SUPERPRO UPPER CONTROL ARMS “The best of both worlds,” says SuperPro SuperPro says everyone now knows 4x4 Upper Control Arms are a ‘must’ to fix alignment issues after your 4x4 has been lifted above standard height.

With most people fitting bull bars, winches, larger tyres, and rims to their 4x4 along with a lift in their suspension, a product to correct the steering geometry was needed.

Over the years, SuperPro says it has worked hard on establishing a very extensive range of Adjustable Upper Control Arms which are designed to be overtly superior to both OE Arms and the aftermarket competition.

SuperPro Adjustable Upper Control Arms are supplied with camber and caster adjustable ball joints, allowing you to set the perfect alignment for your vehicle to suit the myriad of differing suspension, wheel and tyre set ups available.

They deliver up to three degrees of caster correction and additional camber, allowing for the optimum alignment settings for a lifted 4WD. SuperPro says the design of these Control Arms has removed the common issues usually faced with getting the correct alignment and clearance.

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expanding its range, working hard to release new and improved arms to the market.

To further improve SuperPro’s Upper Control Arm range, SuperPro says its will soon be releasing a more affordable fixed camber and caster correction version.

These arms are reportedly ideally suited to a “conventional” 50mm lift to offer an easy solution to correct alignment via the OE adjustment mechanism on the lower arms.

SuperPro says its 4x4 Upper Control Arms are designed, tested and manufactured to the highest standard, designed to outperform the competition and Original Equipment (OE) parts.

It states they provide the perfect alignment solution, with an upper arm that is built tough using high strength steel.

To further solidify its motto of ‘Engineered to Outperform’, SuperPro says it provided a set of 4x4 adjustable control arms to a third-party engineering company, contracting them to do a third-party analysis outside of its engineering facilities.

SuperPro reports the main underlining note from this company was “in line with the provided information from SuperPro, the FUCA complies

with the ADR ruling as stated in the NCOP. It is manufactured to meet or exceed the factory item, with built in features and benefits to suit raised suspension.”

Key features: • Lifetime Warranty • Enhances your 4WD’s handling and performance • Designed to solve alignment issues when you lift your 4WD • Approved Nationally - VSB 14 Compliant (ADR compliant) • High quality, form factor welding and assembly • High grade Steel, for increased strength • Engineered, tested, and built to the highest standard For more information, visit www.superpro.com.au

4WD

INNOVATIONS IN TRAILER CONNECTORS All new patent pending spring terminal system from Trailer Vision The age-old problem of trailer connector pins closing up and not making good electrical connection is a common cause of malfunctioning trailer lighting or braking circuits, which is bad news for safety.

Trailer Vision says the good news is that after a few years of design and development, it has just released an all new patent pending spring terminal system (STS) which it says will ensure a solid and reliable electrical connection of the connector pins.

Using specially designed spring pins for plugs and sockets, the pin contacts are kept securely tensioned at all times, eliminating pin close up and giving the best connection possible.

Trailer Vision says just by inserting these all new connectors together you can feel just how good, sound and safe the connection is, stating that it is like wearing a seat belt for the first time.

The new STS connectors are available in seven pin flat plug and seven pin flat sockets (PN TV7FP, TV7FS) and will work with any existing trailer connectors of the same type. Trailer Vision

states these will soon be followed by an entire STS trailer connector range.

Expanding on the “ever increasing and innovative line up,” Trailer Vision says it will be soon releasing its Duo range of trailer/Anderson style combination connectors.

These all-new all-in-one dual connectors reportedly provide fast fitting, LED indicators and easy mounting solutions for applications where trailer connectors and Anderson style connectors are required, such as dual battery tow bar installations.

The Duo range has been specially designed to use Trailer Vision’s popular patented connector cover interlocking technology which allows for any Trailer Vision mating Anderson style connector cover to lock with the Duo connector range, providing a safe and secure connection.

The new Duo range has a removeable Anderson style connector, allowing the use of any brand including Genuine Anderson connectors.

Trailer Vision says these combined features are a first in the market for connectors of this type, stating that the compact over/under model in either

seven Pin or 12 Pin (TV146665-7, TV14666512) is perfect for tight fitting applications.

The Duo side by side version will also come in seven or 12 pin flat configurations (TV145697, TV14569-12) and cater for applications that require a slimline fit.

For further information, contact Trailer Vision on 02 6645 2722 or mail@trailervision.com.au

STABILITY CONTROL For your 4x4 Whiteline says it is best known for dramatically improving a vehicle’s handling and performance.

Well, it says 4x4s are no different and now, Whiteline boasts a growing range of heavy duty suspension solutions for this booming 4x4 vehicle segment.

4x4 HD Sway Bars Upgrading sway bars is not just limited to sports or passenger vehicles.

4x4s and utilities can benefit greatly from larger sway bars, particularly where heavier loads, towing and/or highway driving is involved.

Whiteline says it has customised a short range of heavy duty sway bars (anti roll bars) to suit the most common 4X4 models with the objective to minimise excess body roll, dramatically improve handling performance and most importantly, improve safety.

Whiteline says its Sway bars are manufactured using the finest grade spring steel.

It explains they are powder coated and supplied with high performance synthetic elastomer mounting bushes in a DIY kit form, ready to simply bolt on.

Whiteline adjustable sway bars offer from two and up to four points of adjustment, allowing in some cases 10 distinct stiffness settings for precise handling bias adjustment.

For more information go to www.whiteline.com.au/4x4_suspension.php or phone Whiteline on 1300 882 355.

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STOREFRONT

NATRAD AUTOCARE OPPORTUNITIES The franchise group says there are many benefits in becoming a Natrad AutoCare workshop In 1984, the Natrad Franchise group was formed

by Natra Pty Ltd, an original equipment and aftermarket automotive parts manufacturer which was founded in 1922.

For decades, Australian built cars had been fitted with Natra copper-brass radiators, and automotive workshops all across the country reportedly proudly offered genuine Natra radiators amongst their cooling system replacement parts with the brand said to represent quality and reliability.

This reputation was carried through to the Natrad Franchise group, first as radiator specialists and then expanding to include air conditioning.

The group says no other automotive workshop brand has this rich heritage in Australia’s automotive parts manufacturing industry.

Changes in recent years have resulted in Australia’s automotive industry looking very different and Natrad has continued to evolve and adapt.

Launched in 2016, Natrad AutoCare expanded the trusted brand further while maintaining and growing

the strong connections to quality auto parts and service that has been their hallmark of success.

Running an automotive service and repair business has never been more complicated and demanding.

Having the skills required to understand modern vehicles, manage employees and balance finances while effectively operating and promoting your business in a competitive market can be overwhelming.

The Natrad Franchise group says if this sounds familiar, then you need support and Natrad can provide it.

It states that there are many significant benefits in becoming a Natrad AutoCare workshop including: - Powerful branding - Capped franchise fees - Designated territory areas - Phone routing from a national 13 Number - Digital marketing campaigns - Website and social media - Dedicated BDM support - Access to an extensive parts inventory - State and national conferences - Warranty and network support Ultimately, the Natrad Franchise group says the results are proven by the experience of Natrad AutoCare workshop owners and operators who have experienced it for themselves.

“Since adding the Natrad AutoCare Franchise to

the radiator business, it has just taken off and I can’t believe how much work we can now get through. The move to new premises gave us the space and efficiency we needed to keep up with all our bookings. I am really happy that we came on board and am very pleased with the results,” Natrad AutoCare Oak Flats’ Brett Stewartson said.

“With joining Natrad AutoCare my business has been kept very busy. I have had to hire additional staff and my repeat business keeps increasing.

I would highly recommend joining the group to any workshop owner who wants to be part of something. I am still in control of everything but now I get assistance whenever I need it, and systems that have helped, with workflow, planning and bottom line. One day I had five A/C jobs from new customers, and I had to send some to one of the other Natrad stores, we all help each other.

I like the fact that it’s still my shop, but I have other people that I can rely on,” Natrad AutoCare Enoggera’s Bevan Crowhurst said.

Opportunities exist in all states and territories to become part of the trusted Natrad AutoCare network.

For more information, please visit www.natrad.com.au/ join-our-team or contact Steve Jones on 07 3275 9103 or steven.jones@natrad.com.au

MIDAS IPSWICH IS OPEN FOR BUSINESS Located in the central hub of West Ipswich at 325 Brisbane Street Midas, which says it is Australia’s most trusted automotive service and repair group, has announced the opening of another new store catering for the motorists of West Ipswich and its surrounding suburbs.

Midas Auto Care Ipswich is conveniently located in the central hub of West Ipswich at 325 Brisbane Street. This new Midas store is owned and operated by highly experienced automotive businessman Adam Ronke, who has been a part of the BAPCOR group of companies since 2017 with his successful operation of an ABS automotive workshop located in Mt Ommaney.

Adam brings more than 20 years of experience in the automotive servicing, repair, and engineering fields, having started out on the spanners in the high-octane world of motor racing.

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stripes building, engineering, and maintaining high performance road vehicles across various popular race circuits and events.

Midas says Adam’s motorsport experience translates well in ensuring that attention to detail and quality automotive repair and service processes are deployed across his new Midas workshop.

This includes the addition of the latest specification diagnostic scan equipment, four service bays and quality tyre replacement equipment across his large 400 square metre workshop.

Midas Ipswich is located amongst a busy hub of shops along Brisbane Street in West Ipswich, with a bus stop located directly at the front of the premises.

An air-conditioned waiting room including tea and coffee facilities ensures that customers have a convenient place to wait for their service or repair work to be completed.

Overseen by a highly experienced workshop manager, two fully qualified mechanics and one apprentice will be taking care of their customers’ cars.

Adam believes that Midas Ipswich is the new destination for local motorists to gain high quality and total value for money automotive servicing and repairs with friendly and attentive customer service. Adam Ronke and his team say they are looking forward to welcoming you to their new Midas Auto Care centre to experience a new level of automotive customer service.

For more information or to book your next service, repair, safety check or tyre replacement, call Midas Ipswich on 07 3444 2200.